Review- DHC Kakonjuka Cream

Intensive moisturizer that fights fine lines and wrinkles
Launch date: March 2013, $32
Kakonjuka is Japanese for "flower, root, tree, fruit." Six Japanese and Korean botanicals soothe, hydrate and fight fine lines. Includes:
-Maitake mushroom - soothing, line-fighting beta-glucan
-Platycara strobilacea -promotes collagen
-Licorice leaf - moisturizing
-Great burnet- soothing antioxidant saponins
-Purslane- soothing Omega-3
-Reishi mushroom - soothing, line-fighting beta-glucan

 
I'm so impressed with this DHC Kakonjuka Cream, which is a dream beauty cream to me! 

I've been testing this (courtesy of DHC) for a couple of weeks now and my skin has taken on a significantly noticeable improvement. Before using this cream, I had problems with tiny breakouts, parched skin and fine lines, yet after using this regularly, my skin is so much smoother, more elastic and radiant, it almost looks like a different person's skin!

I've used this moisturizer both during the morning and in the evening. It's lightweight and silky, leaving a sheer and glowing finish - perfect for setting makeup and leaving your skin thoroughly hydrated. Yet, as a night cream, wow, I found that the botanical extracts and rich ingredients really do repair my skin cells overnight and promote collagen growth!! Each morning, I was surprised to see that my skin looked a lot more refreshed and replenished. Also, with regular use, I noticed that my skin actually looked brighter and smoother even without wearing the moisturizer.

This is definitely one moisturizer to keep a lookout for early next year when it's released. I know for me, I plan to order this in the future when I run low, because it works like nothing else I've tried in making the skin look more youthful, radiant and smoother rather immediately! Also, I have highly sensitive skin and this did not cause any irritation or breakouts either. I'm happy with the results and will surely keep it in my anti-aging regime a long time!

Hillary says:
I, too, love this moisturizer.  I echo all of Trish's positive points and I'll add one of my own- it's kind to sensitive skin.  I have trouble with all kinds of moisturizers, especially around my eye area (no, I don't usually use a separate eye cream) which almost always reacts to the slightest thing.  Not with this cream.  I also love that this cream is the perfect consistency for day or night; it doesn't make you shine during the day, nor does it make you wake up with dry skin in the morning.  It doesn't break me out or contain a heavy fragrance either.  Overall, I highly recommend this cream.  I realize it doesn't come out until March, but when it does, place your order because your skin will thank you for it!

Review- Beauty Through Balance Acai Power Repair Moisturizer

Beauty Through Balance ™ Acai Power Repair Moisturizer protects the skin against free radical damage while targeting signs of age with the dual action of Organic Acai Berry & Olivate from pure olive oil found in this advanced formula. Dry & environmentally damaged skin will be infused with omega fatty acids and nutrients to reveal a fresher, brighter complextion. A luxurious rich texture that leaves the skin with a smooth, silky texture without any greasy residue. 60 ml / 2 oz

I didn't think my skin was starting to show signs of aging - but whoa, after using this lovely Acai Power Repair Moisturizer by Beauty Through Balance - I'm starting to see a noticeable (ahem, much younger) difference to my skin - in a good way! The repair moisturizer is made with organic Acai berries and pure olive oil, which further adds to the highly moisturizing and hydrating power behind this effective product. My skin really does look softer and younger with a dewy and overall lighter complexion and glow to it. While guarding against free radicals and damaging pollutants, the rich and creamy moisturizer also adds a layer of hydrating power protecting the skin and nourishing it at the same time. If your skin is dry or if it's starting to show signs of premature aging - then this is the kind of moisturizer you would want in your beauty arsenal!

Review- Cosmedix Define

A unique blend of gentle acids and 2% AGP Complex, Define is designed to push the activity of the skin to a very dynamic yet well-tolerated level of remodeling. This powerful vitamin A resurfacing treatment exfoliates and remodels the skin’s layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production while mildly hydrating. $74 for 1 oz.

Yay for Vitamin A! I am in love with Vitamin A treatments since I have seen the most visible change when using it in my regime. The Cosmedix rocks like any other and is even a bit more gentle and loving than most. I used it liberally (and did slather sunscreen on during the day with more consideration) every night for several weeks and spots are brightened, (I have this maddeningly annoying freckle attached to my bottom lip that is practically negligible) pores are smaller and my crow's feet and eyebrow wrinkle have softened. The scent took a second to get used to since it's not a typical moisturizer scent (whatever that means) and neither is it medicinal but just kind of tart or pungent. I went from the Avon Gold Emulsion (see review if interested) right to this and feared a little bit for the state of my skin with two heavy-duty things back to back but that's where this stuff pleasantly surprised me the most. It's as gentle as it is effective and even though I withstood the slight, ahem, "tingle" after applying it, that was the extent of my suffering for beauty!

Review- Avon Ultimate Night Gold Emulsion

What have you got to lose, except years of visible aging? Transcend time with a rare skin-strengthening fusion of patented Pro-Sirtuin TX and Gold Polypeptide technologies. $29 for 1.7 fl.oz.

My first thought when I looked at this jar was, "Am I going to sparkle in the sunlight ala Twilight?" Anything with a gold sheen is appealing. But, as I have now learned, gold is meant to sink into the deeper layers of the skin 'instantly.' This treatment, however, never really did sink in. Yes, I felt like I was more moisturized than perhaps ever before and yes, I saw visible changes in only three days but I determined that this emulsion is best suited for someone older with extremely dry skin. Also, after four days, paradoxically, the skin around my nose started to feel irritated and dry and it was uncomfortable enough for me to consult the back of the box which reads: This product may not be for everybody. So, alas, I did end up discontinuing use before the promised "results in 14 days" but since gold never changes its properties, I am going to cross my fingers and hope this jar keeps for 10 years from now and see what's what closer to my 50s!

Review - Luxtural Mystique Fountain

A superb hydrator for any skin type. Mystique Fountain tones and calms, cools and refreshes your skin, naturally protecting it from environmental damage as it reduces inflammation. $78.00

One word.... FABULOUS!!! I love this stuff. It's refreshing & hydrating.. I got a sample sized container that resembles a pen.. I have emptied the container and am praying for more.. I used this on my freshly cleaned skin before moisturizer and sunscreen. It feels great, dries down and my face felt plump and hydrated. I swear that applying this way really locks in the moisture for all day benefits. I also used it over my makeup to boost the look and definitely woke up my makeup and gave it the freshly applied look at the end of the day... Luxtural is a delicious line!

Sheba says we know that Cityslicker loves to go heavy with her products -- she often mentions it. I, on the other hand, am very frugal with mine. Yet, I have to say I got the same results with my Luxtural's Mystique Fountain, Luxtural's Sophisticate Veil, and Luxtural's Silk Premonition. I have been using them for over a week now and can really feel the difference in my silky smooth but definitely moistened skin. I believe I can see the difference in the appearance of some fine lines being less noticeable. Personally, I don't know why they call them fine lines. We don't want them -- they are not fine with us. So anything that diminishes their appearance is truly the FINE thing and Luxtural is really FINE. The cost is about where I would expect to find Fine products like Luxtural and it should be considered an investment in our faces.

Maria says: Two words: In LOVE. Yup. Two big thumbs up to Luxtural for what is truly a mystical experience indeed. INSTANT hydration - instantly better feeling skin. I've had this little pen in my purse and I maybe have one or two more spritzes and I'm bumming BIG time. It was so unseasonably warm here the past couple of days and I found myself spritzing myself with it any chance I could. That's probably why I ran out so quickly. Applied over your makeup, it just gives a slightly dewy look that dries down to a perfect fresh face. Absolutely NO reaction to this spray. The line is truly luxurious and is going places. I can see this line becoming a big lemming for me. I better start saving now!

Hillary says: I decided to put this product to the ultimate test- I used it on the plane to and from Ireland (6 hour flights). Ordinarily after I fly my face is as dry as the Sahara with flakes galore. Not this time. The best part is although it imparted a lot of moisture, it didn't ruin my makeup, even my non-waterproof mascara. It also smells wonderful, but not overpowering. I don't think that there can be that much fragrance in it or it would have bothered my allergies. The only problem with this mist is as Maria said- addiction. I must have sprayed myself 100 times (ok, the sample I got doesn't hold 100 sprays but I like to exagerate). Unlike spraying with puified water, this does not make your face feel tighter as it dries, it does the exact opposite, leaving your face feel like you slathered on a cream not just spritzed with a mist. Although they only have 3 products so far, I'm expecting a lot of buzz about Luxtural in the coming months.

Also, don't forget to see the bottom of the page for how to enter to win a Luxtural Gift Set worth $414!

Review - Avon ANEW REJUVENATE Night Revitalizing Cream

"Overnight the anti-aging process begins. PM Lightweight gel-cream works while you sleep, so you awaken to skin that looks fresher and more vibrant." 1.7 fl. oz. Usually $32.00 Currently on sale together with the Anew Rejuvenate Day Revitalizing Cream for $39.00 for both.

I have had excellent luck with Avon's Anew line and this was no exception. It does seem to work while you sleep -- and your skin does appear improved when you wake. Of course, it cannot improve every single night or we would all be perfect. I think once you get to the limit -- it will help to keep it at its top level and that is all I can ask. I honestly feel you really should use this - together with its partner, Avon ANEW REJUVENATE Day Revitalizing Cream, to realize the full benefits of both. Thus, the current sale for both products is incredible and worth the investment. I will review the Day cream next and it is another great Anew product. If you are looking for light and silky creams that do work . . . these just fit the description. Your skin will feel so silky, yet toned and firm with less noticeable lines.

Review - Avon ANEW REJUVENATE Day Revitalizing Cream

"Like Rejuvenate Night Revitalizing Cream, this lightweight day cream with a patented sun-protection system is uniquely engineered with a breakthrough fusion of pioneering technologies designed to replicate the steps of a professional anti-aging facial" 1.7 oz. Ususally $32.00 Currently on sale combined with Avon ANEW REJUVENATE Night Revitalizing Cream-- both for $39.00

I just finished reviewing the Avon ANEW REJUVENATE Night Revitalizing Cream and found that to be a wonderful night cream -- and I think it works wonders when it is combined with this Avon ANEW REJUVENATE Day Revitalizing Cream. They definitely complement each other and finish the job in tandem. This is a wonderfully light cream which applies very easily and there is no greasey or heavy feel to it. The fragrance is very light and does not interfere with any fragrance choices I might make for the day. It definitely does help tone your facial area. I noticed an improvement in the texture and feel to my skin. I also believe that it minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines which is a real nice bonus. I love the one, two punch this combination of Day and Night creams gives to aging. . . it seems to work!!

Review- Avène Ystheal+ Lotion

Preventative anti-aging lotion visibly reduces the early signs of aging without irritation. Improves skin’s tone, texture, and radiance. $32 – 1.01 fl.oz.

I appreciate the literature that came with this product, especially the part about how they include thermal water (from nature) for its curative properties. It said stringent tests revealed this water is ideal for treating skin conditions, even serious ones. The Web site even lists a product for wound care. All of this scientific stuff aside, my skin is more radiant; my skin tone is more even, my skin texture is smoother – and I ignored their instructions to use at night only. Call me a rebel, but since it was the only product of theirs I had, I put it to work. The size may seem small unless you readily know what 1.01 fl. oz. is, but it’s really a good amount and it takes very little. I recommend it.

Review - Avene Innovation Eluage Retinaldehyde Cream

"Visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles, H.A.F. + Retinaldehyde Cream, Hypoallergenic, Non Comedogenic. Properties: For maximum precision and efficacy against deep lines and wrinkles, Avene Dermatological Laboratories have developed Eluage Cream, formulated with a patented combination of powerful ingredients: Retinaldehyde: Through an exclusive and patented technology, provides a clinically proven effective form of vitamin A to minimize the visible signs of aging without irritation. H.A.F. (Exclusive Fragmented Hyaluronic Acid): Enhanced by the Retinaldehyde, to visibly reduce the signs of the skin aging such as lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness. With daily use, skin is firmed, the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles are diminished, leaving your skin smoothed, revitalized and radiant. Your face is visibly younger looking. The creamy and rich texture of Eulage Cream will bring an immediate comfort to the skin. Eluage cream is peach tinted and slightly fragranced." $36.00

I am loving this Avene Innovation Eluage Retinaldehyde Cream as it really performs!! It costs much less than some of the other products I have found to work about the same as this one. Guess which one I will be purchasing -- you cannot go wrong for the price. I have some pretty deep lines the usual places -- the deepest is from the nose to the corner of the mouth. After using this for about 6 or 7 days I did notice that those lines do appear to be diminished!! My skin feels a bit tighter and I am pretty sure some of the looser skin around the jawline is firmer and less noticeable. I have had a few comments about looking especially nice -- perhaps a gentle way of saying -- you seem to have less wrinkles. Hey, I'll take the complements -- I do feel like I look better while using this and so I will be continuing with this regime. I believe your face will thank you when you use this -- mine is definitely feeling a lot better with the appearance of less lines and a reduction in the appearance of the larger lines!!

Review - Origins A Perfect World™ Antioxidant moisturizer with White Tea

New research at several major universities has proven that world-famous White Tea is among the most potent antioxidants, anti-agers, anti-stress, anti-smoke, anti-pollution antidotes. Now its perfect-protective powers are energized and optimized while skin is deeply moisturized. Ferment of Sugarcane acts like a mini-sparkplug to up skin’s ability to neutralize free radicals before they deface skin. Murumuru Butter maximizes skin’s moisture barrier. Rose Fruit Oil hydrates. Centella Asiatica firms. Vitamin C brightens and helps even out skin tone. And aromatic Orange, Bergamot and Spearmint fortify the feel-good factor. Keep your skin in A Perfect World™ 24/7.

net wt. 1.7 oz./50 ml US $35.00

I found this moisturizer to be very effective. My skin seems to agree with it and feels very soft, silky, and healthy. It does not take a lot to cover my face and it is absorbed relatively fast. I have no greasey or shiney after effects that I do get from heavier moisturizers. My skin can use all the help it can get. . . and this claims to have protective powers. I have no idea if they are working but my skin does look and feel better since using it. My skin does respond well to many moisturizers and it rejects many also. However, this does have a very clean, crisp scent to it that does not linger on my face. I like that feature as I want to smell the scent I choose to wear for the day without competition from my facial moisturizer. The cost seems to be in line with most effective moisturizers and I am betting that it will be on Ebay if it is not already. The jar will last for some time as you do not need a lot for it to work. I think we will get our money's worth from this product.

Review - Nicel Daily Repair Vitamin A Retinol Cream

Daily Repair vitamin A retinol cream smooths facial lines and corrects uneven tone and skin imperfections. Use day or night. This versatile around the clock moisture lock nourishes and softens skin to help prevent future damage $3.79

Their web site announces "Nicel Department Store Quality Skincare products at Amazingly Affordable Prices". Actually I do find this product to be very effective in moisturizing while at the same time diminishing the appearance of fine lines. My skin does feel and appear smoother when I use it. I found this in a Supermarket in the cosmetic aisle. One never knows when you can run into a good deal. For some unknown reason this cream was on sale for $.99 -- that's right. I had never heard of them but thought I can afford to loose a buck if it is useless. It was a real pleasant surprise to have the cream actually work and work well. I went back and scooped up about 3 more of them. It is lucky I did as they never had them again. I think they were pulling in a new brand and had to make room so this went. Luckily I discovered it before it disappeared. Even at the actual price of $3.79 it is a real bargain. It is a reasonable investment considering that it does contain Vitamin A Retinol. It might be just a speck but it is in there.