Review- DHC Pore Cleansing Oil

Pore Cleansing Oil

Velvety rich with a refreshing natural grapefruit scent, DHC Pore Cleansing Oil is our serum-like makeup remover that gently pampers your skin with nine emollient and antioxidant botanical oils to loosen pore-clogging dirt, cosmetics and excess sebum, and deep clean your pores. You’re left with skin that looks and feels softer—with fewer visible pores. Includes coconut, argan, evening primrose, olive, grape seed, jojoba, avocado, sesame and rice bran oils. $31

I have been using this Pore Cleansing Oil by DHC for a while now and have to say that I am fully embracing it! This is my No. 1 go to choice when it comes to removing the day's makeup, dirt, sweat and any other general pollutants picked up along the way. The oil is applied dryly before washing the face, and I found that it effectively takes away all that is heavy and impure and is clogging to the pores. My skin looks super clean and bright and for those of us who run oily (even during the winter months!), this oil has offered a complete turnaround as far as the skin's natural surface and glow goes. If visible or clogged pores is one of your personal skin caveats, this is one of the most effective and visible solutions I have experienced. It works really well to minimize and purify those pores without stripping the skin of its natural softness, luminosity and clarity. I plan to continue to use this Pore Cleansing Oil for a long time, and keep a backup bottle handy just in case when it runs out!

 

Review- Motives by Loren Ridinger 10 Years Younger Makeup Setting Spray

Primary Benefits of Motives® 10 Years Younger Makeup Setting Spray $29.95: 

Helps reduce makeup slippage into pores, lines, wrinkles or scars 
Keeps makeup looking flawless day and night 
Fewer required touchups throughout the day Saves up to 50% of makeup usage 

When it comes to looking younger, even if it's taking 10 years away ;) , I'm all for it! I'm pretty happy with at least 3-5 years though and this makeup setting spray surely does not add any more years. I'm not sure if I actually *look* like I'm in my early 20s, but using this spray and looking like I'm in my 20s is good enough for me! It does work, especially to keep my makeup set all day and soften fine lines smoothly. Every now and then I'll catch my reflection in the mirror and it does look like my skin is hydrated and glowing - even if subtly- it's something I can notice. As a beauty tool, I think this is great for any makeup enthusiast to have in their kits. Upon spraying the mist, my skin had that flushed and youthful radiance. Throughout the rest of the day, I just notice that my makeup application remained firmly set and any signs of aging (which tend to creep up by the end of the day) remained ever more elusive and not as apparent. For makeup perfectionists and anti-aging devotees, this is a wonderful spray to keep on hand, your skin and age will appreciate you for it!
 

Review- Simple Refreshing Facial Wash Gel

Description: Our Refreshing Facial Wash Gel leaves your skin thoroughly cleansed and revived, plus it's a perfect blend of our purest possible skin loving ingredients with an added vitamin. $6.99
1 Added Vitamin

Pro-Vitamin B5 known to help restore, soften and smooth
No Soap
Non Drying
No Dyes
No Artificial Perfumes
No Harsh Irritants to upset skin  
Dermatologist tested 

Noncomedogenic 

Hypoallergenic

I'm quickly growing fond of the entire Simple Skin Care Line. I especially love (and can't go without) this Simple Refreshing Facial Wash Gel. It does all that I'm looking for in a purifying gel cleanser at an incredible value. After some recent sensitive-skin breakouts, using this cleanser has not only maintained a healthy glowing skin for me, but also alleviated any further irritations. From using this, I can say that my skin looks brighter and fresher, and softer and more natural as well. As someone with sensitive and  combination skin, I find that this facial wash somehow cleanses my skin very deeply and thoroughly without drying out the skin, yet making it purer and more balanced in the process! I'm in awe too, especially since I'm so accustomed to dealing with a variety of skin needs, and not yet being able to cover them all in one product. Not anymore, this Refreshing Facial Wash Gel has completely won me over! The only downside I've noticed is that it does take a little longer to rinse off and does not remove heavy eye-makeup, but that is only a small complaint when everything else gets it so right!

Review- L'Occitane Cherry Blossom Hand Cream

Enriched with Shea Butter, this creamy and non-greasy moisturizer nourishes and protects hands, leaving them delicately scented. Contains cherry extract from Luberon, Provence. $10

It seems the season of dry-hands has returned! What I love about this L'Occitane Cherry Blossom Hand Cream is that the shea butter component provides instant, immediate relief, leaving my skin feeling silkier and smoother upon application. It dries nicely and smoothly all around and is not too thick or heavy on the hands. Great for those of us who are impatient with hand creams. I personally love quality scents and this Cherry Blossom fragrance is sweet and delicate at the same time. It's strong enough, but also uplifting for me. If you like sweet, fruity fragrances, especially with hints of cherry, and are looking for a hand cream that definitely works, this L'Occitane cream delivers highly in scent and smoothness!

Review- Privé Concept Vert Volumizing Froth (mousse)

Privé Concept Vert Volumizing Froth- Enriched with Amazon açai and babassu oil, Privé Concept Vert # 110 is a revolutionary non-aerosol mousse that provides incredible body, volume and definition. This nourishing high-yield foaming cream amplifies your style while leaving hair soft, shiny and full of bounce.


• Clean air technology provides incredible volume without releasing any HFCs into the atmosphere.
• Innovative delivery system provides more than twice as many applications when compared to traditional mousses.
• Great for defining curls and reducing frizz.
• Froth is creamy and easy to apply.
• Travel friendly size is perfect for those on the go.
• Color safe formula.
   $24 for 2.5 oz.   This product rocks on a number of levels: it's the only mousse- product I know that doesn't use petroleum-based propellants to get it out of the container, it holds your hair exactly where you style it, it smells good and I had no period of trial and error with it because it seems to be pretty klutz-proof.  Basically you pout a little bit of this froth into your hand (a quarter size for your whole head) and it's a liquid.  Then you rub your hands together a bit, pull them apart and watch as the product foams up.  We're not talking oodles of foam, but enough foam so that you'll have no problem styling even long hair with a quarter sized amount, so a little goes a long way.  And it has a lot of hold for such a small dose.  I am growing out my bangs, however, the front of my hair falls forward.  If I use this mousse and blow dry my hair back, I don't have any problems with "hair blindness" (when your hair goes in front of your eyes and you can no longer see, usually at the least opportune moment).  I also really like that I'm not using any propellants which are bad for the environment.  Privé as a company is not totally green, but they do do a lot to be greener than most hair companies (recycling their shampoo and conditioner bottles when returned to the salon, making this mousse with no propellants, etc.).  If you haven't tried anything by Privé yet, I highly suggest placing an order or stopping by one of the salons.  The products may seem costly, but they really do last a long time when used correctly.

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- Privé Volumizing Dry Shampoo

Enriched with ginkgo biloba, green tea and soy, Herbal Blend #10 imparts incredible volume instantly while cleansing the scalp and hair without using any water. Even baby fine hair is left full of amazing body, texture and grip to hold any style.  Key Ingredients:

• Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo) – helps deliver better circulation to the scalp, which supports healthy hair follicles and promotes growth of thicker and fuller hair
• Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) – packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals, green tea also contains vitamins C, E and panthenol, which help stimulate hair growth, sooth the scalp and strengthen and condition the hair
• Glycine Max (soy) – full of amino acids, soy promotes healthy shine, texture and manageability

Now, the PR company is not going to like that I'm saying this, but the first time I tried this product- I HATED it!  I told Jean at Privé's PR firm this and she said "Just give it one more chance."  So I did, except this time I read the instructions: "Hold 8 inches from hair." was a big eye opener.  The first time I used it I held it maybe 2 inches from my hair and sprayed away.  It ended up looking like a mess.  BUT, and this is a big BUT, when I used it according to the directions my hair came out fabulously!  Not weighed down like with some dry shampoos and with great combability and no flyaways.  It uses mostly rice starch to clean your hair and it's really great on even third-day-hair.  So what have we learned here today:
1. Hillary is wildly impulsive and jumps to conclusions.
2. Hillary is big enough to admit when she's wrong and gives second chances.
3. Privé Volumizing Dry Shampoo has actually turned out to be as good as if not better than my favorite dry shampoo and I will continue using it. 

Trish says: I have to agree with Hillary, that "8 inches from the hair" is what makes a world of a difference! I too didn't read the directions and the dry shampoo made my hair look heavier and weighted in the beginning. But, following the advice here and on the spray, I get it now! When used properly, my strands do look cleaner and softer, like I just washed and blow dried my hair. (Which comes out better than if I actually did attempt to blow dry my hair on my own!) The key to this spray, different from the others I have tried, is to use a light touch, and a good distance away from the scalp and hair, and you're all set to go!
The results are lovely and as a detangler I was most impressed, but figuring out the distance and the applied pressure is what makes this dry shampoo truly click! Otherwise, your hair can look a little heavy if you spray too much, too closely!

Review- Lush Ocean Salt Face and Body Scrub

Coconut Cream and Sea Salt Scrub... Back in 2005, our inventors had come up with a number of fantastic cleansers but there was one category they had yet to conquer: The scrub! A sea salt scrub! With that, they whipped up (our now enormously popular) Ocean Salt. Washing with Ocean Salt is like taking your face on a trip to the seaside for an invigorating splash in the water. We mix in fresh avocado and coconut to hydrate thirsty skin, while the antibacterial effects of lime and vodka is ideal for blocked pores, blackheads or blemishes. The minerals in sea salt soften as it scrubs away dirt and blockages.

When it comes to salt scrubs - I simply adore them. And this Lush Ocean Salt Face and Body Scrub has been love at first use! There is a beautifully crusted layer of ocean salt on top, and below, is the creamiest face and body cleanser one could I imagine! It's made with a highly moisturizing mix of coconut and avocado and the ocean salt purifies so gently and deeply. If I could buy tubs of this that would be near paradise for me! Of all the different kinds of bath body scrubs I've tried, this ranks as one of my very favorites - it is highly moisturizing, deeply cleansing, and created with quality ingredients- the kind of scrub that makes you feel like you're pampered to the fullest! As a fan of salt scrubs, this is a sure keeper!

Hillary says:
I'm not usually a salt scrub fan, but after giving this one a try, I may have to revise my opinon.  Okay, not my whole opinion.  I just like this one.  I like it because it doesn't sting when I use it on my face and when I use it on my body I still feel clean afterwords, not filmy nor greasy, just clean and moisturized.  Plus the smell reminds me of every beach vacation I've ever had.  I credit this scrub with getting rid of the uneven skin on my chest after I recently got a bit of a tan on my chest in Mexico (I tried my hardest not to).  This scrub is the perfect combination of creamy and coarse for the body, some may find it a bit harsh for the face, but then again, my favorite face scrub is derma e microdermabrasion scrub and that stuff doesn't fool around!   I like the fact that the jar says who lovingly packaged my scrub with a little picture of him, too.  I haven't used that many Lush products, but this one I would buy again.

Review- DHC Skincare Deep Cleansing Oil

This could be the most effective makeup remover you've ever tried. Experience radiant skin by discovering why this product is beloved by millions of people around the globe. This amazing olive oil cleanser dissolves pore-clogging dirt and makeup with ease, leaving skin feeling refreshed. $28


Okay, no matter what the season is, I tend to have oily skin, and clogged pores too...so how would adding more oil on top of my skin make it look better? I don't know, but I do know that this DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is a worldwide best-seller for a reason - it works!!! After a long day, with residual make-up piled up, all it takes is a small drop of this Deep Cleansing Oil to truly cleanse the skin (applied dryly) and remove excess make-up, dirt, pollutants etc. thoroughly. I had to test the claims and applied it on cakey foundation, waterproof mascara and all-day eyeshadow - and everything came off! I was amazed. Even more so, my skin looked brighter and more radiant immediately afterwards and even to the next morning. It is luxurious feeling, but also affordable in my opinion, and is definitely a worthwhile cleanser to use a couple of times a week to deeply penetrate the skin...you'll feel like you're treating yourself to an intense mini-spa with all the glowing after effects! This is a great cleanser to switch up your normal routine for that added boost! I know for me, my skin looks much brighter, clearer and radiant as a result, with a healthy glow!

Sultana Says:  As you all know, I have oily and acne prone skin.  Just like Trish, I was petrified to try an oil cleanser.  As skeptical as I was, I tried this not expecting the best results.  I am so glad I tried this because I was so impressed.  This cleanser (if used the right way) will unclog all your pores and make your face the cleanest its ever been.   A little goes a long way, use sparingly for and make sure to rub into your skin until it turns white. 

I guarantee you will be happy with this product.  Its like no cleanser I have ever tried.  Since I have been using it, my face appears much brighter and my pores look less clogged. 

Hillary says:  I've been using oil cleansers for years as they are wonderful for both dry and oily skin (don't ask me how that is, but it's true).  "Cleansing oil with oil, it makes no sense." you say, but trust me, this product leaves your face as soft as a baby's bottom with unclogged pores and a radiant glow.  It is the best cleanser for when your face is dry; it's the only rinse off cleanser I can use during the dry winter months when my face becomes as dry as Gandhi's flip flop.  I recently found out that I suffer from dandruff on my face and this oil cleanser greatly reduces the amount of flaking I experience.  I'm so happy with it, I can see it being my go-to cleanser for years to come.  You may have heard about the Shu Uemura Oil Cleansers, but at a less expensive price point, the DHC cleanser delivers just as well if not better.  You don't even need a separate eye make-up remover, this oil does it all.  Okay, so I'm a bit overzealous about it, but when you find a HG (Holy Grail) product, you tend to get excited.  Try it- you won't regret it.

Review- Murad Hydrate for Hope Set

From the Hydrate for Hope Set, Murad will donate 10% of the sales to City of Hope's breast and women's cancers research, treatment and education programs. 


The three-piece Hydrate for Hope set (a limited-edition) from Murad includes a pink cosmetics bag, the Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture Eye Cream (.12 oz), and the Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisturizer (1.7 oz). This is a super convenient set for travel or on-the-go purposes, yet the moisturizer comes in a nice full size. The eye cream is one of the smoothest creams I've tested. It really cools and soothes the eye area and amazingly conceals under eye bags and the effects of stress! I had the flu the past week, but you couldn't tell from this eye cream.

The moisturizer is very rich, nourishing and creamy and lasts throughout the day. It will definitely hydrate the skin and give a really smooth appearance - a bonus for those looking to soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - this will do it. 

The best part, of course, is that it supports a worthy cause by donating a portion of its proceeds to City of Hope's all cancer research for women, making the set a lovely gift for someone close to you or even a gift to yourself to help another!

Other ways to support Women's Cancer research: Murad will donate $1 for every like on Facebook (Murad), Follow @MuradCares or Tweet #Murad4Hope or post on Pinterest with #Murad4Hope. 

Review- Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Soothing Lotion

Neutrogena® Ultra Gentle Soothing Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 15 is a gentle daily moisturizer formulated for even the most sensitive skin. It's clinically proven to instantly soothe and calm skin, visibly reducing redness and irritation. This uniquely developed formula with Chamomile and Feverfew makes skin less sensitive after just one week by strengthening skin's moisture barrier. Skin is left smoother, more supple, and healthier looking with daily use. Broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen protects the skin against the sun's damaging rays. With an allergy tested fragrance uniquely developed for sensitive skin, skin is left feeling calmer, softer and smoother.  Oil-Free/Allergy Tested/Non-Comedogenic 


This summer, I have been breaking out a lot, perhaps from a combination of the heat and humidity. There were definitely many days when I wanted to wear as little as possible as far as moisturizers, foundation and powder goes. The nicest part about Neutrogena's Ultra Gentle Soothing Lotion was that I didn't need to skip the moisturizer because it was so soft on the skin and non-irritating. I do have sensitive skin and for the more sensitive types, this is a safe and highly moisturizing facial lotion to wear. It is thickly rich and nourishing, so for those with dry skin - this moisturizer will hydrate surely! I can be a bit oily over the summer (acck!) so this formula was a little dense for me, but on days when I needed to wear some moisturizer and was afraid of another allergic breakout, this was the one product I could actually wear that didn't aggravate my skin! Despite any noticeable heaviness, my skin looked much softer and clearer for it! Because of that, I couldn't complain and would highly recommend it as a nice moisturizer for those who have dry, sensitive skin and are prone to allergic breakouts. This moisturizer is a pretty safe one that will nourish your skin back!


Sultana Says:  I also have issues with breakouts and sensitive/oily skin.  I agree with Trish that this is a little richer than I am used to, however it surprisingly did not cause me to break out.  It made my skin softer and smoother and a little bit brighter. 
I love Neutrogena because they are affordable and make an array of products for all skin types.  I always have at least one Neutrogena skin care product in my daily regimen.  Now that I now this one is just as gentle as the others, its a keeper!

Review- Simple Exfoliating Facial Wipes

Our Exfoliating Facial Wipes gently lift dead skin cells to leave your skin revived and revitalized, plus they contain a perfect blend of our purest possible skin loving ingredients with added vitamins.

SIMPLE GOODNESS
2 ADDED VITAMINS
   PRO-VITAMIN B5 known to help restore, soften and smooth
   VITAMIN E known to moisturize to improve skin condition
1 SKIN LOVING INGREDIENT
   ALOE VERA known to soothe and condition
NO DYES
NO ARTIFICIAL PERFUMES
NO HARSH IRRITANTS to upset skin    Dermatologist tested
   Ophthalmologist tested
   Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
   Hypoallergenic
   Noncomedogenic


Yeah! Simple... Sometimes all a gal wants is a straightforward and clean facial wipe or cleanser, and this gentle Exfoliating Facial Wipe really is effective. As noted before, my skin breaks out way too easily from certain products and when I'm in the midst of a breakout (like now!!), all I can actually handle is something uncomplicated and pure feeling. Simple's basic goodness delivers on its promises and I am able to use this exfoliating facial wipe without irritating my skin, yet cleansing it thoroughly in the process. The facial wipes are noticeably thick with gentle exfoliating ridges to really clear deeply and the formula does feel clean and nurturing against the skin. I don't know if I notice much of an exfoliating glow after using the wipes, but my skin is much clearer and softer as a result and when you're breaking out and can't use much on the skin, these wipes have become much of a skin-saver for me. And I am thankful that with sensitive skin, I can use something so highly effective without adding any more irritants to the skin. For those of us who have sensitive skin, the Simple line may just be the right solution! Definitely worth a try!

Review - Face Stockholm Lash Boosting Mascara

Lash Booster

OUR NEW LASH-EXTENDING MASCARA!

Get noticeably longer, thicker and fuller lashes after only one day of use!

This revolutionary, strengthening and lengthening mascara with Booster Complex – a blend of rich vegetable waxes and polymers – nourishes and stimulates the growth of eyelashes.

Use Lash Booster as your everyday mascara for at least 60 consecutive days and get clinically-proven, measurable results: lashes up to 1.5 mm longer and 15% fuller! $34

You all know from my previous posts, that I love a good mascara.  Mascara with a growth formula to boot, makes it that much better.  FACE Stockholm is one of those classic companies that manage to come out with new goodies to keep with the trends. 

I am used to bigger brushes, but this one had a normal sized brush. I instantly got longer and thicker lashes after applying.  The formula goes on smooth without any clumping.  Two coats will do.  Also make sure the coats are thin, even coats. My lashes felt extremely conditioned and glossy even after I washed it off later that night. 

The price is $34, but remember you are paying for the mascara AND the lash booster.  So the price makes perfect sense. 

Hillary says:
I too, love this mascara.  It goes on super smoothly, not to watery, not too thick.  And I am all about the lash boosting products.  Anything that can help my puy lashes is great in my book and so far, this mascara delivers.  Just by applying it my lashes look boosted- I'll have to get back to you to let you know if it helps my lashes grow as it is not supposed to be magic, but gradual over a couple of weeks.  I've been using it for about four days, so I'll write in a couple of weeks as to whether my lashes are longer or not.  But as far as using it as just a mascara, it's a really great one.

Review- Butter London Teddy Girl Nail Polish

I truly love pink nail polishes! Even more when the shade is the pretty sort of pink. Lately I've been seeing butter London nail lacquers everywhere and am really glad I had a chance to try their Teddy Girl shade, a powdery bumble-gum pink. It's my favorite color, light and soft, and reminds me of the understated, but classy and sophisticated look of a french-style manicure.  

On my first coating, it streaked just a little, maybe it was the lightness of the color, but by the second coating, the color's consistent form started to set and a solid finish was easy to achieve. It does dry evenly and rather quickly too and the overall look is soft and pretty with a light shininess. It's also nice to know that there's no formaldehyde, toluene or DBP in their formulas - just a lovely color in a straightforward and fashionable shade!

Review- White Sands Liquid Texture Firm Hold

Liquid Texture Firm Hold is the “ultimate design tool” because it allows you to create and recreate any hair design imaginable. Liquid Texture has raised the bar for hair spray because it can be combed through and has incredible memory to provide long-lasting designs without regard to humidity. It is thermal intelligent, so the more heat used, the shinier the hair becomes. Liquid Texture leaves hair soft and silky without flaking or leaving residue on hot tools. 


Imagine a really firm hairspray that can hold curls and waves without any of the stickiness...that pretty much sums up my experience with the White Sands Liquid Texture styling spray. It is recommended to be used on dry hair either as a working spray or before styling in conjunction with flat and curling irons or blow dryers. Some days, when I'm in a super rush, I'll spritz the White Sands Liquid Texture on my hair and put it up in a loose bun while getting ready. As a result, my hair has more volume and a soft waviness to it, yet still looks and feels natural. I could even brush through my hair and re-style if needed without interfering with the actual body and movement of my hair. I like that it holds up well without flaking or making my hair feel heavier or look matted. It's definitely a nice tool to have if you like creating body and texture, but don't like the feel of hair products. Also if you're like me and need something quick and low-maintenance, but has lasting and soft results.

Review- Royal & Langnickel [R]evolution Brush

I don't always notice striking differences with make-up brushes until I experience one that really stands out. The Royal & Langnickel [R]evolution Eyeshadow Brush BX-75 made me feel like I was living in the dark ages before and now that I've upgraded, it's going to be hard to go back! The high-tech "synthetic" (Dupont Natrafil) fibers on the brush are especially designed to replicate the feel of natural fine hairs, and I was almost very certain it had to be made of real hair. (As a side note, I'm so grateful no animal hair products were used!!) The brush was able to pick and lift up so much of my eyeshadow and upon application cover my eyelids smoothly and fully. The actual barrel handle also has a smooth comfort grip, which was easy to hold and control. As a result my eyeshadow application looked considerably better and not of my own doing. Not only is this one of my favorite eyeshadow brushes, but I'm also impressed that it remains quite affordable for such a quality brush ($13). I'm definitely interested in checking out their other brushes, because if this one can elevate eyeshadow application this well, I can only imagine the amazing possibilities with their other brushes!

Review- Egon Schiele Matte Lipstick

 

A rich matte formula that smoothly glides on the lips with a decadent silky texture. Highly pigmented and long lasting.

Nothing says 'Hello, Fall' like a deep red lipstick! From the Egon Schiele Cosmetics studio, this matte red lipstick is classic in both color and style. It is easy to apply and highly moisturizing. The color stands out gorgeously and the lipstick has a smooth and silky feel. For me, I noticed that I needed to re-apply it frequently, within a couple of hours, to keep it looking refreshed, but the color remains and when used with a light dusting of powder, the lipstick lasted much longer and stayed put. With such a nice pigmentation, I was pleasantly surprised that it didn't dry out my lips or flake. The vivid colors used in the Egon Schiele cosmetics line are inspired by the famous artist and each product seems to be made with delicate thought, care and ingredients. This is a classy red lipstick, especially for someone who likes unique and artisanal products. Even though I had to add a loose dusting of powder to keep it from running, the color itself is what makes it special.

Review- Smashbox Photo Op Eyeshadow

Our fab trios are all playfulness and color! Get rich, bold hues in just one swipe. Each includes 3 coordinated shadows-base shade, contour color and highlighter-so you'll never wonder which shades to wear together again. You'll even find application tips on the peel-back label.

• Super blendable, velvety formula
• Highly pigmented, even color
• Lasting wear

Smashbox, wow you really hit it this time! I've been on the longest search/hunt for an eyeshadow palette that could pretty much cover everything I needed and wanted on an everyday basis. This one fulfilled it. It is really rich in color and applies evenly. The soft and smooth texture makes it really easy to wear and blend, especially if you're always late or in a rush, like me! And the staying power - no doubt, it lasts throughout the day without budging or compromising. All of these factors contribute to my favorite kind of eyeshadow. There are so many color combos to pick from, I recommend choosing and coordinating the colors you like the most that best complements your eye color and skin tone. Because even though it's a little on the pricey side running about $28, this Smashbox Photo Op Trio makes up for it by being nicely pigmented and long-lasting throughout the day. To me, as a trio, it is very worth it, especially if you're picky about eyeshadows (the color, texture, and wear-ability), this is one that fully passed my test!

Review: Revlon's NEW Colorstay Nail Products(Spoiler: RAVE!)

 

 

"Gel-Like shine and up to 11 days of shatterproof color*.

*When worn with Colorstay™ base & top coats

Colorstay nail color formula is fortified with unique ingredients that provide high impact color and gel-like shine in fashion forward range of shades and finishes. This technology is based on a unique combination of resin and high molecular weight polymers designed to provide flexible, shatterproof color with excellent color retention and gloss."

Okay, I have to admit I was very skeptical about the claims of 11 day wear, but I'm now a firm believer!  I just removed my manicure after 10 days and it would have lasted even longer had I not gone to the beach yesterday.  Now, for a change, no one gave me this nail polish to review.  I spent my own cash on the base coat, top coat and colors of this polish that I own.  For me to rave about a product that I spent my own money on is really rare.  It has to be a super-performer, and this system definitely is.  Now I know that when you've seen it at the drugstore you've been reluctant to plop down $8.99 x 3 just to try this nail system (you really must have the base coat, the top coat and a color), but if you keep your eyes open, you'll find deals like I did such as the one at CVS two weeks ago, the entire line was buy one for $4.99 get $3 CVS bucks back (I'm unsure of the limit on the number of bottles on this sale).  So you can get away with owning this great system relatively cheap.  I currently own all of the colors I like and I brought two matching colors to get a manicure 10 days ago.  True, manicures seem to last longer when done by a professional, but come on!  10 days!  That's awesome.  And the best part, my nails are just as strong as when the polish went on, unlike when I get shellac mani's.  It comes of with ease to boot.  Search those Sunday circulars this week because I'll bet one of your local drug stores or chain stores will have a sale on these wonderful products.  P.S. Don't forget to apply two coats of each product, allowing drying time between coats or else it will not turn out correctly and it will bubble.

Review - John Frieda Full Repair Perfect Ends Sheer Mist

Breakthrough mist with omega-3 rich Inca Inchi Oil absorbs into worn-out strands to smooth and protect hair.

Love. That is what I feel for the entire Full Repair line from John Frieda. In general I love everything that I have tried from him, but these products are really 100%. My hair is fine, home dyed blond. It isn't what I would call damaged, but a little bit of help never hurt anybody. This mist I would use in conjunction with the full line of other products. It is so light and leaves my hair super shiny and really healthy looking. There is really no scent so it won't interfere with your perfume. I'm going to be honest, I am a cheapo, I almost never replenish on my products, and yes I use the 99c Suave Coconut shampoo and conditioner (its the bomb y'all!) but I will most certainly be replenishing on these products. I absolutely love all of it and my happy healthy hair agrees with me!

Sultana Says: I have to say, I am not at all impressed with this line! First of all, its called Full Repair.  So you would expect that you use this and your hair looks a lot better than it did before.  I used this as directed and nothing.  It was shiny for a minute and then, nothing.  I have used many hair repair products and this is not even in comparison.  Again, I usually love John Frieda products but for some reason, this line isn't making the cut for me.