Friday, February 6, 2009

Coupon Code- Exclusive Savings for Beautifile Readers @ e.l.f. Cosmetics

Use Coupon Code: BEAUTIFILE09 at checkout @ e.l.f. Cosmetics and save
%50 off all orders up to $15. This offer is good through April 1, 2009. FYI- their make-up brushes are awesome and with almost everything priced @ $1, you can get a whole set guilt-free.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Review - Decleor Paris Radiance Revealing Peel-Off Mask

"Calm and revitalize the skin with this illuminating mask. • Eliminates dead skin cells, excess oil and impurities• Brightens and enhances the complexion• Nourishes with essential oils and vitamins• Protects against harmful free radicals• Boosts the skin's immune system for lasting brilliance. $42"

When I was a kid, I loved peel-off masks. LOVED them. I had tubes and tubes of them all over the place, just because I liked peeling them off my face. The thing is, peel-off masks are SO NOT NECESSARY for a child, because the whole purpose is to "renew" your skin, and kids don't need skin renewal. At some point, I stopped really using peel-off masks, and I'm not sure why, because guess what? I STILL LOVE THEM. And this Decleor Paris Radiance-Revealing Mask is a great one. Now, this is definitely a high-end product, and at $41 is pretty pricey. That's really the only complaint I have with it, though. The main thing that bothers me about some peel-off masks is that once they dry, they don't actually PEEL all that well. This one, however, practically came off in one big piece, which made it easy for me to ensure that it was all off my face. (It was easy to apply as well.) While I didn't see a huge difference, I could practically feel my pores unclogging as I removed it (which sounds hokey, but for real guys...it was kind of amazing). If you're in the market for a luxury peel-off mask, this is it.

Deedlejuse Says: Ladies, I am almost positive that most of you have forgotten how wonderful it feels to use a peel-off mask, or at least a quality one. Personally I have to totally agree with Movie Maven, the ripe old age of ten was exactly the last time I used a peel off mask. I loved it then, and I really love it now! There is just such a fulfilling feeling to peeling off the mask after you have allowed it to dry, and then to see the results. It took a few rounds of bi-weekly application, but now there is no hint of darkness in my pores, and my skin is so soft. The mask comes off in one fell swoop, and although you don't actually see impurities in the peel, you will see the results on your skin. I am definitely sold, and I will treasure this mask down to the last drop!

Hillary says: OK, let's just say we all agree that peel-off masks are cool. It hasn't been that long since I last used one, but it was nowhere near the quality of this one by Decleor. This is truly the Lexus of peel-offs. It goes on so easily that I think it would be very hard to mess up (unless you didn't put your hair back first- that could be a problem). You simply apply a thin layer, wait 8 minutes and peel it off. Every time I've done it, it has come off in no more than 2 pieces (which is cool to see, I don't know why). It can totally pull off the flakes from dry skin, leaving your face refreshed. It makes your face feel amazingly smooth and extra clean. It is recommended for all skin types and seriously, how often do you get to have fun while doing something good for your skin in the privacy of your own home? I like to finish off with Decleor Tonifying Lotion and Essential Balm.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Review - Decleor Aromessence Iris - TimeCare Concentrate



"Formulated for mature skin, this elixir is 100% pure and contains 100% natural essential oils.
• Redefines features• Softens signs of aging• Slowly hydrates• Protects skin from harsh internal/external factors• Fights free radicals" 0.5 oz.Price: $84.00

(Receive a FREE Ooh La Spa Set when you purchase $75 or more. Your free gift will automatically be added to your shopping cart. Offer valid while supplies last.)


I have been using this Decleor Aromessence Iris - TimeCare Concentrate in conjunction with the Decleor Experience De L'age - Triple Action Rich Cream. Let me tell you -- this is one dynamic duo!! This is like a light oil with a pleasantly light fragrance. Fear not -- your skin drinks it up immediately -- you will not have an oily appearance at all. It feels so, so good on. You look so, so good with it on. Then you apply the rich cream as I mentioned. I do not know if they would work as effectively if used separately -- but why try it when I see the results from the combination. They are responsible for my face (and neck) appearing much firmer with lines that appear noticeably reduced!!! Decleor, where were you all my life??? Now that I have found you I will never let you go!! You can see that the price is a bit high -- but then look at the Spa Set they are giving with any purchase over $75 while supplies last. Hey, order this one day and get the Spa Set and then order the Cream another day and hopefully get another set. UNLESS they have some rules that only one free set per customer. Check it out while they are still available.

Maria says: Another hands down winner from the House of Decleor. A richly hydrating and soothing oil, this has the ability to calm my stressed winter face and neck and impart baby-soft skin. No easy task. I will say that I only use the oil at night as I sort of have one too many steps in my morning regimen as far as skincare products - but I'm glad I do because it makes my nighttime routine so much easier. I cleanse - apply the oil - maybe a little eye cream on top (if even needed) let it absorb, then off to bed I go. I wake up in the morning and I don't see the Sahara Desert looking back at me - just soft, luminated skin. At 45, I am not looking for gimmicks and hype - I am looking for products that WORK. Decleor got it right with their Aromessence Iris. Truly Fab. A must try will most definitely turn into a must BUY for you once you've given it a whirl. Well done, Decleor.
Joyce says: Big, big love. Love what it does for my skin. Love how easy it smoothes on. Love how it’s scented. Love the bottle. Love that it’s 100% natural with essential oils and fruit extracts. L.O.V.E. it! Please see my review for Decleor Triple Action Rich Cream that is the companion product I used with this scrumptious oil for mature skin.

Review - Decleor Experience De L'age - Triple Action Rich Cream





"An anti-aging, moisturizing facial cream.
• Combines ''peeling effect'' and ''patching effect'' for clear, radiant skin• Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines• Intense hydration that prevents premature aging• Appropriate for all skin types• Designed for daily use"

1.69 fl oz. Price: $100.00 (Receive a FREE Ooh La Spa Set when you purchase $75 or more. Your free gift will automatically be added to your shopping cart. Offer valid while supplies last.)

Oh my goodness, this Decleor Experience De L'age - Triple Action Rich Cream is designed for mature skin. However, I am betting that it would enrich younger skin also. If I knew all the information I know now when I was younger -- I would have searched high and low for cream like this. It is applied in the morning over your face and neck. Believe me, you can feel your face and neck responding with a much better feel. They are so hydrated with just the little dab and your skin takes on a real glow. I feel that the fine lines (sounds much better than wrinkles) look diminished and my face and neck actually look very refreshed (from aging I think). It does have a slight fragrance which I found to be very pleasant. It is expensive, yes!! But it does a wonderful job and you need a drop or two so it will last. Also I did include the note about a free Spa set so hurry up and order while the supplies last. That way you are getting so much more for your money. Oh, what I wouldn't give to work there and get all of this cream for an employee discount. My body would be soaking in it for hours at a time. In real life I need to pull out my wallet and dig into it. Usually I try for bargains at bargain basement products. This is a bargain for my face and skin but it is not at basement prices. I guess when it works like this -- you cannot be stingy. I have been using this along with Decleor Aromessence Iris - TimeCare Concentrate which I will be reviewing in a few minutes.

Maria says: Love. This. Cream. What a luxury this little jar of wonder is. From the moment I opened the jar and took a whiff of the slightly almond-y scent, I knew it was destined to be a winner. I was right. It's an all-out pampering of the skin. Listen, let me tell you, this winter in New England has been HELLACIOUS - from icestorms to freezing temps, my skin has been sucked dry and this cream just gives me back the moisture I've lost but in addition it imparts a soft glow and a comfort to my skin if that makes sense. Whenever I saw a Decleor product I always thought of extravagence and indulgence - but this cream is sooooo worth indulging in. It's one of the rare creams that delivers on its promises. My skin feels refreshed and soothed when I wear this - and I say this truthfully b/c after being hit with the flu, my skin was so sallow and parched looking but after a nice mask, then an application of the Decleor Iris Oil, then this cream...my skin felt and looked 10 trillion percent better. If you get the opportunity to to try this cream, please don't pass it up...you'll be sorry if you do. Don't think you are not worthy of this cream - you ARE!!
Joyce says: Ohhh yeeaaahhh. Use the Aromessence Timecare Concentrate first then apply this cream and we’re talking product promise fulfillment. It doesn’t take much and skin absorbs it quickly, so no problem with liquid or powder base going on atop both products. I had a health issue come up; and I really believe these two products made a difference. I may have had days where I could have felt better, but my face (skin) looked GOOD.

Review- Poshe Super-Fast Drying Topcoat


"Dries To The Touch in 1 Minute, Dries To The Nail in 5 Minutes, Highest Gloss Of Any Product On The Market , No Formaldehyde, No Toluene, No Nitrocellulose, Cannot turn yellow, even in tanning beds, Chip Resistant, Self-Leveling, Non-Dragging, Ideal For Nail Art, No UV Lights or Heated Dryers Needed, A True Topcoat - Must be applied over polish or basecoat
Aliphatic Resin System: Re-wets To Revive Existing Nail Polish
1. Smooths out scratches & abrasions.
2. Dissolves any oxidation & returns existing polish to its original color.
3. Reaches through any lotion residue to re-wet & adhere to existing polish.
Top Quality Brush - Reaches To The Bottom Of The Bottle Consumer Can Use The Whole Bottle. Amazing how it dries to the touch in 1 minute and dries to the nail in 5 minutes!" Price: $9.49

I put a lot of the information from the website here as I found it to be informative. I love that I can use this bottle to the very last drop as it is a bit expensive. However, once you have tried it you will find it worth the extra cost. It applies so easily and smoothly. It certainly protects your polish as I have had it on for over 10 days without any chipping. Notice how it smooths out scratches, etc. It is dry to the touch in about 1 minute and seems completely dry in the 5 minutes that they advertise. It has won many, many awards and it is not surprising once you have used it. This Poshe Super Fast Drying Topcoat is definitely one of the best I have used.

Hillary says: I have been a loyal Poshe user for years now. Believe me, I've tried all the rest (being a product junkie and all) but I always go back to the Poshe Super-Fast Drying Topcoat. Not only does it dry quicker than I can mess up my nails (even I have the patience to sit for 5 minutes!) it keeps a manicure going for days and days. The nice people at Poshe made this point when Sheba said the topcoat was expensive and I think it's valid: "As for the topcoat being on the expensive side, you actually use more topcoat when using the cheaper brands because the manicure chips more easily and you end up having to do your nails more frequently.". I can see how that is true as when I reapply the top coat every few days I've been able to go without re-painting for over a week. I had a UV nail drier, but I got rid of it after I developed a sun spot on my hand. I'm not saying the nail light was the culprit, but I'm certainly not taking any chances from now on. And with this Poshe topcoat, I don't need to.

Deedlejuse Says: Um am I just allowed to say "ditto"?? I love this Super-Fast Drying Topcoat! I am what one might call impatient, so many times I will get distracted after painting, and I'll have to re-start from the very beginning. Not even once did I find that necessary with Poshe. It is just amazing, and it keeps polish on for at least twice as long as other top coats I've tried. I definitely recommend this brand as well as this specific product, and really under $10 for something that really works? That's not that bad!

CitySlicker Says: I am so impatient so super fast drying is right up my alley. I am notorious for applying a polish, waiting a moment then resuming whatever I was doing and nick up the coat. I am quite amazed with the quick dry and the durability of the topcoat. I was a little skeptical that it would dry fast but chip. I have been wearing this with polish and without and both ways have lived up to it's name. I am extremely pleased with the performance of Poshe's topcoat and am so thankful since any product that can push out the wear of my polish for over a week is A+ in my book, I have been happy with all of the products I have used from the Poshe line!

Amanda S. Says: Maybe I have freaky nails, but this stuff dried slower than my usual top coat. I don't know what happened??? I love the idea of the chemical free polishes, so I am going to continue using this, and it was a great top coat overall, I just didn't find that it dried any faster than normal. But that's OK, I can wait while I'm watching some netflix movies and let those suckers take their time drying.

Joyce says: As far as I’m concerned, every Poshe nail product I’ve tried is a winner. I found that this topcoat not only dries fast, but if the polish underneath isn’t totally dry or set and I put this on it, it dries a bit faster than I might expect. I also appreciate that even one coat makes my nails feel and act stronger and harder. Thumbs-up (and fingers) on this one.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Review- Ahava Intensive Hydration Mask

"Long-lasting hydration is yours with this unique, leave-on treatment mask. This deeply absorbed mask intensely nourishes very dry skin, boosting its elasticity and restoring its natural, smooth texture. Formulated with AHAVA's unique Mineral Skin Osmoter™ and rich in Glyco-proteins, this mask softens and smoothes skin's complexion, while fortifying it with essential moisture to leave it soft, smooth and revitalized. $28"

I had never tried any other Ahava products before trying this mask, but they have a good reputation preceding them. This mask lives up to expectations. It is rather unique in that according to the directions, you don't have to wipe it off. If you apply a thin layer, it absorbs completely in about 15 minutes. My skin is super-dry, so I follow the alternative directions and put on a healthy amount and leave it on overnight. Now you might think that leaving a moisturizing mask on overnight would leave me covered in pimples. Not so. I've done it 3 times now and I haven't broken out at all from using this mask. The mask smells like flowers and @ 3.4 fl. oz., it's certainly going to last me a while. It's recommended for all skin types, even sensitive skin. There are so many beneficial ingredients in this mask: shea butter, aloe, Dead Sea water, Dead Sea mud among others. Ahava means love in Hebrew and I "Ahava" this mask.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Review - Sally Hansen Maximum Growth Nail Color

Maximum Growth Nourishing Nail Color makes nails grow longer, stronger and healthy in just one week. $4.59
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I have this in #30 calming cocoa. First off I don’t know any cocoa this looks like. This is really a muted salmon color with a touch of taupe to it which is not my favorite shade. However, this review is more about the product's performance. My nails are weak and are always splitting so I am always on the hunt for nail hardeners and other treatments. This is a really nice product. I have given it the week’s trial to see if I see a difference and I did. The tips of my nails are always bending and chipping without polish on. This has provided my nails a barrier and they actually feel stronger – they are still weak but not as weak. So my hopes are that with continued use and new nail growth this product may actually help. It dries quickly and after 2 coats doesn’t feel thick on my nails. It holds up with me being on a computer all day and chipping is very minimal, I think I notice the chips appear after about 5 days; I just took it all off and reapplied. I highly recommend and this is very inexpensive compared to most nail hardening products!


Sheba says: Sally Hansen is an old stand by for me. Every so often my nails go through an extra soft stage for whatever reason. I will immediately find a Sally Hansen product that takes care of my nails until they return to health. I must say the products have not failed me. This Sally Hansen Maximum Growth Plus Nourishing Nail Color is an addition to my nail arsenal for those times. Please don't misinterpret this to mean -- the only time I use Sally Hansen is for problems. Many times I grab her polish for the color or shade. She usually has a delightful assortment. However, when I need to rebuild my nail strength -- I go directly to Sally Hansen. I have used more expensive products and they work. However, I am so comfortable with Sally Hansen as it has never disappointed me.

Deedlejuse Says: I got this Maximum Growth Nail Color in #36, Baby Doll and just as the name describes it is this really pretty innocent yet sort of flirty pink. It is super wearable for me, a person who really insn't into making a "statement" with my nail color. I did notice that after a bit (a couple of weeks) my nails seemed stronger, and I wasn't snagging on everything any more. Woohoo! I don't think my nails are quite as fragile as Citysilcker's but they are nothing close to iron, so any help I can get is much appreciated. I did not find that the polish lasted quite as long as the others describe, but I am notoriously hard on my hands for some reason. I got about 4 days before the chips were really noticeable. In the general scheme of things thats really good for me (I think the fact that I work with perfume oils, and other nail polish dissolving liquids makes any laquer I wear come off in the first couple of days.) but I was hoping for more. For the price it definitely did a great job, and their color range of course is astounding, so I'm just being picky!

Review - Whiter Image TOGO Pen

Triple-Action Accelerator Gel for your quickest, whitest smile. $39.95
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I do like to use teeth whitener. I am not a person who has teeth so white they look transparent though. I like my smile to look bright and not dull. I swear whitening is one thing that is affordable that can really brighten up the face and shaves off a couple of years. Having said all that I was super excited to get a hold of this pen and get to coloring my teeth. I think its fabulous concept but don’t think the product has been executed to its full potential. This reminds me of the Stila Lip Glazes; they look incredible then you twist the cap and it never stops oozing. The Togo pen is very similar, I wanted this to pop in my handbag and pull out after eating something rich in color to prevent staining or just if I was going somewhere and I wanted a little brightening boost. The case of the Whiter Image Togo pen was, I clicked at home and applied, ever easy, clicked till the clear gel oozed through, then I applied to my teeth. Well, it wasn’t a light application and I did as instructed - kept my lips off my teeth for 30 seconds and then my lips burned. I applied it too thick so it was my fault. This did dry down and feel like a light film on the teeth, nothing bothersome. I took it in my bag and left for work, when I pulled it out to show everyone, the cap was full of product and the bristles drenched. It had been like that every sinceI used it. Now I keep it standing up and after every use I wipe it and in a few minutes, look at it and the bristles are oozing product. Anyway, the question is, does this work on my teeth, yes! This is meant to work along with a whitening program so don’t run out and expect your teeth to look bright and white after one use, it really an aid to assist with a program in my opinion. However, I really can’t recommend this since I have had a disaster with the container, I think it needs to go back and be repackaged, great concept but disappointing!

Hillary says: I didn't experience any of the problems that Cityslicker did with my pen as I keep it at home standing up. I'm glad now that I did. It's true that it does ooze more than it's clicked, but I found that manageable by wiping the pen down after each use. This pen does whiten- noticeably so- especially with repeated use. The instructions say to use it 1-4 times daily and all you have to do to use it the 2nd time on is to wipe your teeth clean with a tissue (no need to brush 4 times when using it 4 times). If you want whiter teeth with little to no fuss, this is your tool. I'm always in a hurry in the morning and with this pen I can whiten my teeth in about 5 minutes and see actual results. I would recommend it for at home use (which sort of negates the name, but whatever works).

Deedlejuse says: Unfortunatly, I am going to have to agree with Cityslicker on this one. While I found the results to be really good (and I am a coffee/tea drinker so there was plenty of room for results!) the pen was sort of a pain. I love the packaging. It comes in this really cool container and the pen is so easy to stick in your make-up bag and really cute but unfortunately I also noticed some significant oozing. It can really make a mess, but luckily it won't escape out of the cap, so even though its a bit sloppy I can still carry it around. All in all though I think that this is one of the easier to use to-go teeth whitening solutions, the brush is much easier to use than tubes without appropriate applicators and it looks more like a tube of mascara than something for your teeth. The price is seriously affordable, as long as you don't lose too much! While I would love it if they could fix the oozing the results are definitely worth the struggle.

Amanda S. Says: Like Hillary, luckily I kept this pen upright. I have to say, I have used those white strips before, and they totally burn my gums. I don't care what anyone says, I could hardly brush my teeth after a few days with them. The pen went on pretty smooth for me and didn't burn. On top of that, I could tell where it was applied because it got a little foamy/bubbly. Although I couldn't tell day to day if my teeth were getting much whiter, a friend commented after about a week that my teeth looked pretty awesome, and after another week I definitely noticed the difference. If you're thinking of using those stick on strips, I would say DO NOT! And try this instead.

Review - Aveda Color Conserve Shampoo & Conditioner

Extend the vibrance of color-treated hair $15.00 ea.
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I have been color treating my doo since the turn of the century. OMG, I can’t believe I am writing that! LOL! I have always used products for color and find that when you are spending upwards of $200 for a foil that it’s well worth the investment! These are 2 amazingly gentle products that I have about run out of. First off the scent is a deliciously light herbal blend that smells dreamy in the steamy shower! Secondly, I am not sure you can get a more gently product--seriously these are like using baby hair care products. Thirdly, they work, I started using on the tail end of my color right through a new one and found that they work in helping to prevent fading and boost my hair’s natural shine and I think even added some strength. The shampoo is light and has a nice frothy lather that rinses away quickly. The conditioner is light weight but penetrates my hair and give it a nice soft texture that is snaggle free. I really like these and recommend investing in the liter sized containers. Also, when using this, I have been using this straight not switching around which I frequently do. There is no buildup and my hair looks soft smooth and hydrated! Also big props to Anna for the image! :) Thank you!
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Maria says: I have to agree with CitySlicker on these two truly fab products. I am a Pureology junkie and have used that line for longer than I can remember and very rarely switch -- and when I have, I always return. With these two products, I find myself reaching for them more often than not and def. more often than my beloved Pureology of late. I think they impart a real shine to my oft foiled hair - neither product weighs my hair down either. You just get the feeling that you're really cleansing your hair but not stripping it. They have a no nonsense scent to them - nothing froofy or sweet - rather just a clean herbal fragrance - almost organic. They are gentle but effective. When you've colored your hair for as long as I have - that's exactly what you're looking for! Although I have quite a bit left of the conditioner as I find I need so little, I am nearly out of the shampoo which says ALOT! I am so pleasantly surprised by these and so happy that they work as well as they do for MY doo!!!!

Review - Nvey Organic Eye Shadow

Finely milled with an extra soft base of Corn Silk and Jojoba Oil, NVEY ECO, Organic Eye Shadows can be used in combination to enhance and contour the eye or individually for a flush of color. $24.00
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I have been wearing this religiously on my lids for a couple of weeks. I was torn about the wording to relay to everyone so I waited then I thought check their site and see what they are telling everyone. Well, they are dead on! “Finely milled with an extra soft base”, words that lit me up! I completely agree. This is a very soft and smooth shade; it spreads on and feels velvety. This stuff is amazing; I have it in Pink Carnation Shimmer. It really opens up my eyes and gives me a bright vibrant look even it I look beat in the morning. It stays on and doesn’t feather, I find that not only do I have no feathering but I have only minimal creasing by the day’s end. Really nice and, yes, expensive but worth every eye popping swipe!