Review - Sony Dakar Blue Mask (Irritation)

For normal to combination skin, this cooling mask helps calm skin while absorbing irritating impurities. Formulated to meet eco-friendly principles, this mask is free of parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, artificial fragrances and dyes.

I put sunscreen on the other day, I swear. But I was out and about a bit longer than I anticipated, sweated a lot, and ended up with a slightly pink nose and ruddier-than-usual cheeks. So I figured the Blue Mask from Sonya Dakar might help, since it's intended to assist with irritation and has some cooling properties. I slathered it on, looking slightly ghoulish, but hoping for good results. After a few minutes, I felt a slight warming sensation, something I attributed to the fact that my face had been pelted with UV rays all afternoon. But when I removed the mask, I was horrified: my face, formerly only red on the parts that get the most sun - my nose and cheeks - was completely red. Everywhere. Well, not quite everywhere- just the places the mask had been.

I freaked out. "What happened! This is supposed to be cooling! This is supposed to stop irritation, not create it!" I shrieked to my roommate, who was just trying to enjoy an episode of Kendra and a beer. "It's probably fine," she said, barely looking up. "Maybe it's, like - it makes it worse before it makes it better. Just go to bed and worry about it in the morning."

I took her advice and lo and behold - it was totally fine in the morning. Better than totally fine, actually - the redness had gone away and was even reduced from my previous day's foray into skin cancer territory. Moral of the story: if you try this Sonya Dakar mask, don't try it right before a big event like the Oscars or the Truckasaurus Rex Showdown. And if you react badly at first, give it a bit and see if it doesn't clear up.

Deedlejuse Says: So, generally speaking Amanda S. and I have really similar views on many products. Unfortunately, this one is not the same. My skin is pretty sensitive, so this mask really was pretty noticeable while I was wearing it. When I took it off (it did come off really easily and apply like a dream) my skin was literally screaming, bright red, and looked really angry with me. The irritation I was tring to get rid of were a few pimples I have gotten recently from stress, and seriously, so not worth it! I did notice the next day that my skin was back to its normal color, and the pimples had really diminished, but I would say that if you find that you have sensitive skin leave this mask for others..... Or if you have intensely irritated skin, I guess.

Review- Arrojo Curl Creme

CURL ACTIVATING ANTI-FRIZZ WITH SEPARATION AND CONTROL. RICH MOISTURIZING FORMULA CREATES BOUNCY, VOLUPTUOUS CURLY HAIR. GO CURLY. 5 OZ. FOR $17

With all of the talk about Arrojo, I think I should cowboy up with my review of their curl creme. The curl creme profiles just as elite as their other products but for totally different reasons. It's not just that it smells great or performs better than the average hair product but the curls it imparted to my 'do were so bouncy and defined that I could easily have been mistaken for a ringlet-haired girl. I mean this may not be the look everyone needs from their curl creme but that sheer fact that I went from annoyingly quasi-wavy to this polished of a curl is kind of remarkable. One small addendum: As with all of the their products, it seems that less is more.

Review- pürminerals Pür Intensity Gel Eyeliner

Ocular-tested and free of tar and fibers, these pür-ly innovative gel eyliners are also safe for sensitive eyes and contact lenses.
Pür Minerals does NOT test its products on animals.

This is a good eyeliner- not great- good. True, it does make a very clean line, although you can easily wear it smudged if that's your preference. Also the Carbon color I have is as black as night, but ultimately it lacks the staying power of my regular liquid eyeliner. The pürminerals Gel Eyeliner did stay on for several hours, but not all day. But again, for those of you who smudge, my liquid liner fails in that arena, so it does come down to personal preference. Basic rundown- if you are a smudger, you can't go wrong with this gel. For clean line girls like myself- stick to the liquid.

Trish says: It's been a while since I've rocked the dark eyeliner look...and wow, have I been missing out. Really, suddenly my daily make-up routine went from soft and subtle to dramatic and daring. Thank You, Pür Intensity Gel Eyeliner. Hillary is right, though, this gel eyeliner is great for smudgers or people (like me) who prefer a thicker line. I found it very easy to apply and to create a near perfect line everytime, which is something I couldn't always achieve with liquid eyeliners. Also I tried the Coffee Quartz shade which is a gorgeous, rich, deep brown. The color doesn't so much jump out at you, as it draws you in, much like a sultry, sexy gaze. Hillary is also right that the gel eyeliner doesn't quite last as long as traditional liquid eyeliners, yet it still stayed on for much of the day for me without any running. The purmineral eyeliner also does an excellent job of opening the eyes and defining them. I love this gel gem and think it's perfect for newbies of gel eyeliners or for others like me who want to play up their looks and add a bit of glamour and sultriness back (in a very easy to do way)!

Movie Maven says: Yep, I'm a clean line gal myself, as well as someone who a) is constantly messing with her eyes and b) sweats more than a hooker in a Baptist church in Georgia in July. For those reasons, I had serious problems with this liner. I put it on to go out for a friend's birthday at around 8:30pm one night, and when I got home at 1am, I looked like I'd been knocked around - a lot. This stuff smudged everywhere on me. Raccoon eyes everywhere. Maybe it would have done better with a base; maybe I applied too much of the stuff; in any event, this is definitely not my favorite product. I'll stick to liquids.

Josephine says: Maybe it's because I used the best 'one-inch or less' nylon bristled brush in the history of makeup (the Ben Nye #12) but this stuff glided on with ridiculous ease. I set it immediately with a loose powder and even after I rubbed ginger (or hot pepper, it's unclear) into my eye when I was cooking Indian food earlier tonight and thus wept for a good four minutes out of my left eye alone, my perfect line hasn't moved a millimeter. I haven't worn it for hours on end yet but I suspect the powder set is the key. BTW, I have the brown shade called coffee quartz and it's a really pretty deep brown that looks great on a dishwater blond!

Review- Solutions a.m./p.m. Total Radiance Refreshing Day Cleanser and Makeup Removing Night Cleanser

Perfect skin for less than 65¢ a day! Customized to your skin's day and night needs, uniquely packaged in one...making skin visibly healthier and life much easier. Provides total radiance for normal/combination skin.

Refreshing Day Cleanser:Energizing creamy gel removes overnight buildup and deep cleans, while refreshing and toning skin. Brightens complexion and gives skin a healthy glow.

Makeup Removing Night Cleanser: Cleansing gel gently and effectively removes makeup and daily buildup, as it smoothes and softens skin. Leavs skin with a luminous, healthy glow.

This is a cute idea: a double package of one cleanser for morning and one for night. Now, as a very lazy woman who barely has time in the morning to put her pants on right-side-out, the morning cleanser was not as useful to me as its nocturnal companion, but I've been using both, and have really liked the results. My skin is naturally a little more "luminous" this time of year (read: greasy from humidity), but I think it's actually having the effect it's supposed to! The night cleanser is really gentle and you only need a teeny tiny bit (something it took me a bit to get used to) as it foams up pretty well. It effectively removed my (occasionally intense) makeup in the shower and left my skin clean without feeling dry or tight. As for the morning version, I didn't feel all that "energized" after using it, but it too only takes a bit to create a nice lather for your whole face.

The main problem I have with this cleanser duo is the packaging. I get that Avon is trying to be clever in making a "dual" bottle, but I have found that as you use more product, it becomes very difficult to extract it from the bottles. For once, my main complaint is not about the price! (It's very reasonable, especially since as of right now, it's $7.99 on the Avon site.) Other than that, this is a nice, gentle cleanser that will probably work better for ladies with more dedication to their beauty regimen than a night showerer who can't be bothered to brush her hair in the morning.

Trish Says: I think this cleanser alone is okay - though for the price you really can't top that. It is much better than drugstore options I've tried in the past for a higher price. I prefer to use this cleansing wash with the Avon Total Radiance Moisturizer for a full lightening and glowing experience. And keep in mind that a little bit does go a real long way with this cleanser as it suds up super easy and washes off make up with success. My only small complaint is that the soapy buildup does leave my skin feeling just a bit sticky afterwards, and without the moisturizer for the glow effect, the cleanser does not really improve (nor harm) my skin. So, if you're looking for a cleanser that is inexpensive and gentle, this is a good choice, but if you're happy with your current cleanser, this may not make much difference in your routine.

Melissa says: I’ve been using this product religiously for the past three weeks. Overall, I’m pretty happy with it. Honestly though, I’m not sure I see the difference between using a day and night cleanser, but I do like how it’s been working. I think the best part is that it doesn’t dry out my skin or make it tight after using it. Especially since both the am and pm cleansers lather up pretty well. Also, I’ve noticed that the pm cleanser does a great job at taking off my make up without stripping my face. The smell is light and a bit fruity, but not overpowering and it leaves my face refreshed and clean!

Review- Arrojo Hydrating Mist

Hydrating Mist provides a galvanizing pep up, anytime, anywhere, and restores vital moisture to the skin. Scented with a blend of bergamot, daisies and white cedar wood fragrance.

You might have noticed that a few of my reviews of the Arrojo products have been less than stellar. This will not be one of those! I found this hydrating mist exceptional, and charming. In fact when (if ever, it lasts so long!) I use this up I will definitely be re-purchasing. The smell was delightfully light and airy, with some citrus and a light floral. The sensation of the mist on your face is wonderful in the hot summer months, but I bet would be just as great in the winter during stressful times. It is very refreshing and even a bit moisturizing. I used it as both a facial spray and a general body refresher. It worked really well for both. The only recommendation I have is give yourself a few minutes for it to dry in, it is quite noticeable on your face, and can cause some curious looks when customers come into my store when I have just sprayed!

Melissa adds: I’m a fan of this hydrating mist because it’s light, refreshing and does the job. Summer has finally hit New York and I’ve been using this daily for a pick me up. The smell, like the Arrojo Body Wash is kind of sweet, but has more woodsy notes. I’m guessing because of the bergamot and cedar wood. So, if you're like me and want a change from the girlie sweet fragrances, try this. My only wish is that it came in a travel size pack so I can take it on the go! Other than that, this product is a winner.

Josephine says: Amen to the whole hot time summer in the city proclamation, Melissa. Anyway, I have no less than five moisture sprays in my 'big box of beauty' (this is a free standing piece of furniture in our bathroom at the request of my husband to at least make it look like this room is not as out of hand as it is in reality). This one smells great, refreshes on contact and gets absorbed quickly into the skin. From here, I am anxious to try it to set my makeups at the makeup trailer.

Amanda S. Says: agreed on this being the perfect time to try out this product! What a sticky hot mess the city is lately, right ladies?? I gave this a shot to set my make up as Josephine mentioned and it held up well. It has a really cute smell and is fun to use. This is definitely at the top of my list for the Arrojo products!

Review- Arrojo Detangling Foam

LIGHTWEIGHT AND CONDITIONING TO SMOOTH, SILKEN, HYDRATE, AND DETANGLE.

This foam is sort of the standard type of deal one would expect of a detanging foam. It isn't really special, and I think that a $15 price tag is a bit over the top. I'm not trying to be mean, I just didn't think it really knocked my tangles that well. I didn't find it particularly moisturizing, and my hair really didn't look that good after I used it regardless of what I used after. The smell was really nice and fresh though, so thats a plus. The thickness of the foam was ok, but again pretty standard. You can find really good, much less expensive, detangling products than this very easily. So all in all I can't say I loved this foam, I wouldn't buy it again.

Review- RUSK Priming Creme

It's a Resurfacing Texture Creme. Lightweight priming creme that smooths the cuticle for instant styling control and is the perfect primer for porous and chemically-treated hair. Hydrating properties leave hair silky soft with incredible shine. Humidity-resistant formula protects hair from harmful UVB rays. Contains Thermplex that provides thermal protection from heat stress caused by daily use of styling appliances.

Doesn't just the description above make you want to go out and buy it? And it's true. It's as good as it sounds. Ok, I can't actually tell if it's providing protection from heat stress yet (I'd have to use it every time I washed my hair for quite a long time before I could come to that conclusion) but I enthusiastically tell you that this stuff is great for hair like mine- wavy to straight, dry, too soft to be manageable, etc. This gave my hair just the texture it needed to make blow dry effortlessly with a round bristle brush. True I said something similar about the Arrojo hair creme, but I feel like this one is a little more goof-proof. Also add in the UVB protection and I'm sold (God am I a sucker for SPF). I honestly didn't know this creme had any protective qualities before I used it and I still came away with a wonderful opinion of it. All the rest is just icing on the cake. Additionally, my hair still looked good the next day. I can't wait to hear what our curly haired reviewers have to say about it, but I highly recommend it for anyone with dry hair who is blow drying it straight. Oh, one last thing: my tiny travel tube is going to last forever. You only need to use the slightest bit.

Deedlejuse Says: I totally agree with how wonderful this product is! I only had to use it once before I knew how great it was. Like Hillary says it leaves your hair silky smooth and so beautiful, even until the next day, which is great for me since I don't have so much time for styling. I (also) love the SPF, I am also trying another SPF protectant for one's hair and I have to tell you this summer compared to last I have seen a vast improvement in shine and the overall health of my hair.... So don't just think its a silly addition to the arsenal, its important and worth it! The smell is really nice, feminine and slightly musky, but not in an earthy way. More like a perfume smell than anything. This product, and Rusk in general, gets two thumbs up from over here!

Josephine says: I can't decide if I like the Gleam creme or this one more. This worked amazingly with wet hair set to airdry. My curls had a very interesting quality to them once they dried--they weren't bouncy looking or even particularly clean. Instead they looked totally rock and roll and insouciant. The potential hair looks I am prepped to roll out with this quality of curl are kind of awesome.

Amanda S. Says: I was decidedly NOT a fan of the Gleam creme by Rusk, but I will give a high five to the Priming creme for sure. My hair felt awesome the entire week I used it, and I was given extra complements about how well behaved my hair is considering I'm trying to grow it out a bit and it has straggly awful pieces fighting me every step of he way. Reasonably priced and really awesome stuff, I am definitely going to pick up a bottle at Ricky's.

Trish Says: If there's only one hairstyling product to have on hand, this is the one. I'm a wash and go type of hair care gal. My routine consists of showering and then putting it up in a bun to dry. The results at best are usually unpredictable. But, with this Priming cream, I can get the look I'm hoping to achieve with the least amount of work necessary. For thin/fine hair types - this cream is so very lightweight and sculpting at the same time. It works as a primer, smoother, corrector, disciplinarian, therapist, etc...a must have for all hair-care types as well as the less inclined - your hair will be so thankful!

Sultana says: I too cannot decide if I like the Primer or the Gleam better. They both are absolutely great products. I will say this, I used the Primer alone almost as if it was a gel. I crunched my hair to create waves and the Primer helped keep them wavy. At the same time, I didn't feel the need to put anything additionally. This is good if your hair is semi-wet and you are in a rush. It creates shine but it also has some hold which is perfect. I am totally smitten with Rusk at this point. Their products smell so good and after I am done applying, there is no sticky residue. I have longer hair, so I require a good quarter size dollop to get this to work for me. This one is a keeper!

Review- Privé Thermal Protection Detangling Spray

Enriched with cactus, bamboo and kelp, Herbal Blend #30 deeply penetrates the cuticle to deliver excellent conditioning and detangling, while protecting against hot tool damage. This unique, lightweight spray imparts exceptional sheen to the hair, which brightens haircolor and makes hair easier to style.

Let me start out by saying I love me some thermal protection. It's one of my "can't live without" products. Now I may sound like a broken record or a total defective, but as happens with many things I use, the first time I used this I overdid it. Thus, next day- oily looking hair. If you read yesterday's review of Arrojo Hair Crème, you will see a pattern. So at this point I feel the mention that a little of this spray goes a long way. Unlike many other detanglers I've used, you don't have to drench your hair in this spray in order to get a comb through it. Simply spay enough to put a fine mist on your hair and you'll be able to put a wide tooth comb through your hair no problem. Now when I use it it simply adds sheen to my hair and surely spares me many a split end because I don't have to tug on my hair to brush it. Thermal protectant is sort of like my imaginary childhood friend, Stanley. They are both invisible but serve a big purpose. (My mother used to give me a cookie for myself AND Stanley). My haircolor lasts longer and my hair is definitely less dry since I started using thermal protectant and I have to say, this one is in my book of favorites because it does the double duty of detangling to boot.

Sultana says: I agree with Hillary 100%! I've spent tons of money on various detanglers that have never worked on my hair. They usually are so heavy that they weigh my hair down or they feel too watery. The first day I used this spray I was in love. Not only does it take out all those pesky knots, but it protects your hair from heat! I curl my hair 5-6 times per week and I need the extra protection. I put this on after I wash my hair at night. In the morning when I wake up, my hair is shinier; softer and way more manageable. I would not normally pay $21 for a detangler but as Hillary stated, a little goes a long way. Therefore, this is definitely worth the money!

Gift with Purchase- Free Travel Arrojo Color Save Duo w/ Purchase in July

Get a FREE travel-size (1.7 fl. oz. I believe) ARROJO color save shampoo & conditioner with all purchases this July, from arrojoproduct.com. Plus free shipping on all orders $50+ withing the lower 48 states.

Review- Arrojo Hair Crème

SUPREMELY GENTLE AND LIGHT TO SMOOTH AND POLISH YOUR LOOK. VERSATILE TOO, HAIR CRÈME CREATES SMOOTHNESS WHEN YOU BLOW-DRY IN, OR SIMPLY RUN THROUGH DAMP HAIR FOR A SOFT AND SEXY SLEPT-IN LOOK. DIRECTIONS: RUN A LIBERAL AMOUNT THROUGH DAMP HAIR TO CREATE THE SLEPT-IN LOOK, OR BLOW-DRY IN FOR ULTIMATE SMOOTH CONTROL.
1.7 FL. OZ.= $7.00 4.2 FL. OZ.= $15.00

The first time I used this product I got it wrong. How you might ask? Well let's just say the words "liberal amount" are open to many interpretations. My idea of liberal is obviously more liberal than Arrojo's. So this time I scaled back and it worked fabulously! I honestly didn't think that I would be giving this product a positive review after my first experience, but right now, my hair looks great and it blew dry perfectly straight and frizz free. Considering it's going to storm later today, frizz free is nothing to balk at. I have hair that is past my shoulders and I used a little more than a rounded quarter's worth of product for my whole head (I had previously used about a half dollar's worth). This crème also gave my hair some "grip", making it easy to maneuver with a round bristle brush. That is key for hair like mine which is sometimes too soft to style easily. I highly recommend this creme for light to medium hold and easier manageability. It's excellent for blow drying your hair smooth without weighing it down- if you use the correct amount!