Product Reviews by smellthis

Fragrances -Guerlain - Vetiver
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 10/27/2012 8:52:00 AM

This is a review for the vintage/pre-reformulated Guerlain Vetiver [rectangular bottle, small square green label in center, straw color juice].

Stunning. A beautiful, sunny masterpiece.

This version is less dry and acidic than the iteration in the frosted bottle (which has thankfully been discontinued but will live on forever on eBay).

It opens with a citrus blast; photorealistic lemon and bergamot followed in short order by notes of pepper, nutmeg and a wonderful grassy, earthy vetiver. It's sparkling and fresh - without use of any ozonic or artificial 'clean' notes. Longevity is great. I can easily detect it on my skin 8/9 hours later. Hearing the fragrance was inspired by the scent of a gardner is no surprise - in fact, it's perfect.

It's pure class in a bottle and even though it's been long discontinued, I've acquired a lifetime supply (TWELVE 3.4 ounce bottles and SIX 6.8 ounce all over body shampoos!) because I don't ever want to be without it!

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Fragrances -Guerlain - Vetiver - vintage 1959
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 10/27/2012 8:49:00 AM

This is a review for the vintage/pre-reformulated Guerlain Vetiver [rectangular bottle, small square green label in center, straw color juice]. Stunning. A beautiful, sunny masterpiece. This version is less dry and acidic than the iteration in the frosted bottle (which has thankfully been discontinued but will live on forever on eBay). It opens with a citrus blast; photorealistic lemon and bergamot followed in short order by notes of pepper, nutmeg and a wonderful grassy, earthy vetiver. It's sparkling and fresh - without use of any ozonic or artificial 'clean' notes. Longevity is great. I can easily detect it on my skin 8/9 hours later. Hearing the fragrance was inspired by the scent of a gardner is no surprise - in fact, it's perfect. It's pure class in a bottle and even though it's been long discontinued, I've acquired a lifetime supply (TWELVE 3.4 ounce bottles and SIX 6.8 ounce all over body shampoos!) because I don't ever want to be without it!

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Moisturizers -Cerave - Facial Moisturizing Lotion - PM
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 8/10/2012 7:45:00 PM

Excellent moisturizer for sensitive skin. Gel-cream consistency the formula includes ceramides (a few types), niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, all in a time release formula to release these ingredients throughout the day. The only thing missing from this excellent skincare option is the inclusion of anti-oxidants. Even so, this is highly recommended.

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Cleansers -Cerave - Hydrating Cleanser
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 8/10/2012 7:38:00 PM

Realizing that skin isn't static [the skin you have today isn't the skin you'll have tomorrow or next week], I own both CeraVe cleansers. This one I tend to use in the cooler months, or in the morning. Non-foaming, very gentle, unscented, does what it says on the package. As long as they continue to make it, I'll have it on hand.

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Cleansers -Cerave - Foaming Facial Cleanser
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 8/10/2012 7:33:00 PM

HG facial cleanser for normal to oily skin. This unscented gel foams lightly, doesn't strip skin but instead leaves it comfortable and clean. Anyone with sensitive skin - or someone who prefers their facial products unfragrances - will appreciate this. My only [minor] quibble is the packaging; the pump is a little stiff.

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Treatments -Neutrogena - Ageless Intensives Tone Correcting Concentrated Serum, Night
rated 4 of 5
smellthis 11/6/2009 9:10:00 PM

Bought this after a recommendation from a good friend and I've just completed my second week of once-a-day usage (at night only). My complexion is noticeably brighter - so much in fact that someone accused me of wearing makeup today (I'm a guy who doesn't dabble in drag, so I thought the accusation was pretty funny!). The price might seem a bit much for a drugstore offering but after 14 days use, I've still got plenty left - and the one once tube should last over a month. Deducted one lippy for the scent - which is kinda strong but thankfully doesn't linger. For best results, definitely use an SPF of at least 15 (UVA/UVB) during the day. Definite re-purchase.

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Fragrances -Malin & Goetz - Synthesized Musk
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 11/10/2008 7:50:00 PM

This review is for the perfume oil version of Malin+Goetz synthesized musk. A HG fragrance for me and as long as they continue to make it, I'll buy it. Any musk lovers MUST give this one a try. At first I was a little put off by the packaging; the oil comes in a little brown bottle (which was hand-filled in front of me at the M+G store in Chelsea) with a little eyedropper type screw cap. While unusual, I guess the eyedropper serves two purposes; it allows you a put a few single drops of the oil precisely where you want it and it allows you to add the fragrance to any unscented body products you have - if you like to layer your scent. I use to eyedropper to place a single drop on the tip of my index finger and then dab it behind each ear and then another drop at the base of my neck. Now about the scent: It's reportedly got lemon (which is more pronounced in the edt version of the scent), palmarosa, patchouli, and musk. It's not a scent that leaves a trail but anyone who comes into your personal space while you've got it on, will certainly notice it. It's warm, sensual, and ever-so-slightly earthy. Its tenacity is excellent - a few strategically placed drops will last ALL DAY. Personally, I've never received so many compliments and people asking "Hmm, what is that? You smell good." type comments while wearing a scent. Maybe it's selfish, but I never tell people what it is - I just say "Thank you.", then smile and keep it moving! At 50 bucks for 1/2 ounce, the price may seem steep, but when you consider how long that little bottle will last when you only use 2-3 drops per application, it's well worth it. PS: If you like Kiehl's musk, you owe it to yourself to try this - I for one, can't imagine going back to the Kiehl's version after wearing this. No way.

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Scrubs -Good Skin - Polished Skin Gentle Exfoliator
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 11/10/2006 7:37:00 PM

Picked this up on the cheap at Kohl's; there was a special in cosmetics where this was 20% off! Couldn't resist after all the raves here. Best twelve bucks I've spent in a long time - I'll probably stock up while the sale is on! Ok, now onto the review: this product is very simply formulated - it's not much more than water, thickeners, jojoba beads (they provide the buffing action), anti-irritants, and preservatives. No colorants or added fragrance. Not only will someone with sensitive skin be happy with this, it's really suitable for anyone who likes the feel of a super-gentle physical (as opposed to a chemical) exfoliant. It's gel consistency doesn't foam (it isn't a cleanser) - use it on damp, clean skin for best results. Left my skin feeling really smooth. Generous 3.4 ounce packaging is perfect - although some might complain that the opening on the squeeze type tube is big, but that's a minor nuisance. Definitely a re-purchase and I'll be looking into a few other products from the line as well.

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Gels/Soaps -Unlisted Brand - Pure Cashmere
rated 5 of 5
smellthis 9/1/2006 7:46:00 PM

I have to echo the other reviews posted here. This bodywash is unlike any other I've ever tried at any price. The thick, creamy consistency, the amazing foam (a tablespoon on a shower puff will produce lather that's unbelievable), and the scent is very comforting - ever so slightly coconut-ish mixed with a dash of white floral undertones. I can't speak on the moisturization claims, but this certainly isn't nearly as drying as the others I've tried. A true drugstore find; I will definitely repurchase this little gem again and again.

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Fragrances -Kiehls - Original Musk Oil
rated 3 of 5
smellthis 12/1/2004 12:22:00 PM

***Please note: this review is for the new Kiehl's Original Musk Blend # 1, eau de toilette, not the essence (oil). While I've been a fan of the earthy original essence for years, this lighter, more complex version is truly a winner. It opens with a blend of bergamot nectar and orange blossom, and has middle notes of rose, ylang ylang, lily and neroli. The warmer, base notes are composed of white patchouli, tonka nut, and a sensual musk accord. It's not an overpowering scent - it actually quite subtle. In MHO, it's simply perfect. I've found a scent that I will never be without!! (Edit: Move over Kiehl's, M+G synthesized musk oil is in the house!)

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