Sunday, May 10, 2009

Review - Revlon Fantasy Length Self-Adhesive Eyelashes

Fantasy Lengths Maximum Wear eyelashes are a revolutionary way to go from Plain Jane to Naturally Fantastic instantly. Without messy glue to fumble with - you can have perfect lashes that stay where you want them to - even in water
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I love false lashes. I am no expert at application but I can get them on to the point that they don't look like I applied in the dark. It really takes some practice getting them on so I highly recommend a few trial runs, if you are looking to wear for an event (better to be safe than sorry). I have 3 sets of these.... Thickening that really gives the heavy Kim Kardashian look, Flirty that is is a nice length that is a little more spiky and intensifying that are my favorite, they give my eyes the really long perfect mascara day!

I do want to point out that these self adhesive are pretty temperamental for me.. I used a pair of tweezers to take off the packaging, they are very gummy sticky so that instantly want to grab to anything.. I ended up getting both on in about 20 minutes.. They would stick together, then I would drop one and so on and so forth.. I just about threw the towel in but the effects are so nice that I couldn't give up once I got the first eye applied! You must apply to a clean surface so be sure to make sure there isn't anything around your lash line. I also recommend a tiny bit of powder.. I just popped a smidge on my fingertip and went over the length of both eyes, it really gives the lashes a nice surface to cling to.. I will tell you this.. Once they were on they did stay on but they weren't there for a the duration, I started to notice some feathering.. I went a head and added some glue when I wore the second pair and sure enough, I got the entire night out of them! I also popped a coat of mascara one once applied, this really ensures that my own lashes became one with the falsies.. I think they look great, are a little hard to apply, are reasonable so I will definitely grab some more.. For special occasions!

Deedlejuse Says: Unfortunately, I am not a false eyelashes kind of gal. And also unfortunately, I only received one pair to try. It just plain didn't work. I tried really hard to get them from the box to the eyelid, but I just couldn't make it work. The self adhesive was like totally not my friend. I can't tell you how long they might have stayed on after I applied them, because although I got them close to my eyelash I couldn't get them in the right location and had to take them off before anyone could see me looking like a crazy-ninety-year-old with crazy looking lashes dangling off of my face! I botched it, I have to admit. If I had marginally more practice I might have been marginally more successful, but I dont and I didn't. If you are like me, and a totally clumsy makeup applicator go for the lashes that come with the glue, and not with the self adhesive, you will love them, and be able to apply them at least!



Malikah says: I actually had a great time with these! I pretty much just peeled them off the base and stuck them on my eyelids. I usually need to trim the eyelash strip to make it fit my eye, but these were already the perfect size. It was kind of hard to get them in the perfect position, but they looked great and were pretty comfy to wear. I tried the "Defining" style, which was much too long - I think I would prefer a more subtle look that doesn't scream drag queen. When I took them off at the end of the day, I stuck them right back onto the base. I will probably be able to get another use out of them before the adhesive wears off. I say save yourself some time - go with the self-adhesive lashes instead of the glue on variety. They really are much easier to handle and last just as long. If you are concerned about the eyelashes dangling off your face issue like Deedlejuse, just apply brush a bit of lash glue on top of them, concentrating on the corners, with an eyeliner brush. This will keep them put!

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Review - Bio Oil


Bio-Oil® is a specialistskincare product that helpsimprove the appearance ofscars, stretch marks anduneven skin tone. Its advancedformulation, which contains thebreakthrough ingredient PurCellin Oil™, also makesit highly effective for numerousother skin concerns, includingaging skin and dehydrated skin.

There are many uses for Bio-Oil. I have been using this in the evening over my night products. It's been working really well for me. I add a couple of drops and when I wake my skin is still hydrated and plump. I swear it seals my skin and doesn't rub away. You might get freaked that I am adding oil to my skin therefore I must be breaking out.. Not at all, my skin is soft, smooth and plump. It's not expensive and is now a staple for me. I will rebuy and the best part is that it's avail everywhere. It's also great on my hands at night with cotton gloves.. I also want to mention that in the shower it rinses away leaving no oily residue behind.. I love this stuff and have read that it also works on scars that is my next test, seeing if I can escape some of the razor battle scars on my stem.. This is a great addition to my regimen!

Deedlejuse Says: I have also grown very fond of my little bottle of Bio Oil. This lightly scented oil is the perfect addition to my moisturizer! I have found that even with a generous dollop of cream at night my skin is often very thirsty come morning, but with a bit of Bio Oil over the top this sensation is lightened substantially. The best part is it fades scars and stretchmarks for me. I have been using it daily for about a month and a half and it has already performed miracles! I have used it both on my gams and on my face and in both places I have seen remarkable results. I haven't broken out once on my face, but I'm really not prone to breakouts, so you might be a bit more cautious if you are. All in all I'd say this is one of my favorite products I have had the pleasure to try recently. I reccomend this product without any shadow of a doubt!

Review- Ahava Mineral Botanic Micro-Peeling Cream Body Wash

This velvety cream body wash is enhanced with a unique combination of Water Lily to promote calmness and tranquility, and Guarana to gently stimulate the senses.
Paraben-free. SLS/SLES-free. Allergy tested. Approved for sensitive skin.


This creamy, exfoliating body wash in Waterlily/Guarana has a fresh slightly floral scent but (and I see this as a plus) it is understated enough that it doesn't stick around to compete with your perfume. Personally I can't use a wash or soap that's too strongly scented if it's not the same fragrance as my perfume. But I digress. This wash takes a little getting used to as it has no harsh detergents and doesn't lather much. It exfoliates well using olive and apricot seed powder but I expected something a little more scrub-like from something labelled "micro-peeling". However this wash was designed to be used on even sensitive skin, so taking that into consideration, it does a great job.This particular formula (there are 7 in the line) is for normal-to-dry skin and as someone with dry skin I can say this leaves my skin feeling refreshed and moisturized. Overall, I would say that if you are looking for a body wash which offers exfoliation, moisturization and is paraben, SLS and SLES free, this is a great one.

Amanda S. Says: SLS & SLES Free is music to my ears! That stuff can really dry out your skin, and as a side note to anyone that gets dermatitis, THIS stuff can be the culprit (it hides in all sorts of products, even toothpaste!). I really loved this body wash, it is actually maybe one of my favorites and sure, it's true it doesn't lather much, but it really made me feel squeaky clean. The part that really got me was what it lacked: I didn't end up feeling itchy all over and my skin lacked the tightness I often get trying new shower/body washes and gels. The exfoliation was nice, not too harsh, but I definitely noticed a difference in the texture of my skin after using this for a little over 10 showers. I'd highly recommend this for sensitive skin.

Friday, May 8, 2009

Review- got2b Fat-Tastic Thickening Hairspray

Movie Maven says: I'm fairly sure this hairspray is intended to be used in concert with its Fat-Tastic sibling, Fat-Tastic Mousse, but it works just fine on its own if you're looking for 80s metal hair (which, let's face it, I always am). My hair is limp. It just is. I'm lazy, so I tend to forget to put products in it, and then it just sits there. If I spritz it with a little bit of this before I blow-dry, I get big volume at first (like - shockingly big volume) that settles down after a bit. It's hairspray, though, remember, so it's going to have a little crunchiness. Just a little, though, nothing to be scared of. I'll definitely be using this at my next Mad Men party, and maybe for a wild night out, but probably not every day.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Review - e.l.f. Professional Shine Eraser


These amazing little sheets instantly absorb oil, minimize pores and mattify shiny skin. Woven texture eradicates shine and keeps skin matte for hours. Green Tea Extract helps re-texturize skin, masking facial imperfections. Travel pack fits neatly in purse for on-the-go touch-ups. Contains: 50 sheets. $1.00

I was thinking - why would I buy these when I can just use a Kleenex or whatever is handy?? Then I tried these e.l.f. Professional Shine Eraser Sheets and now I know why!! They actually work -- they get rid of the shine and do not get rid of your foundation at the same time. Your foundation looks very fresh when you blot one of these little miracle babies. For the price I would be absolutely crazy to go back to using anything else. You can look fresh all day and into the night with these and the package is so small - they are easy to carry along. Once again, e.l.f. is providing a valuable product for a discount price!!
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CitySlicker Says: When I got these, I immediately popped them in my purse. I don't need to be blotting at the homestead, it's when I am out and about that I need a swipe. I have used these in the past and they always work like a charm. I have never spent more than $1.00 for them. These are great. I can afford to have a pack at work, home and handbag and not break the bank. They do pick up the shine I experience and the proof is on the tissue. I am pretty generous with these so I use 2 for my entire face. They instantly quell the additional shine without swiping away my bronzer. I use like a blotter, no running over my face - just press and remove. You gotta pick these up, they are AWESOME!!

Amanda S. Says: Just in time for the sultry humid summer days, I can't wait to pull one of these out when I'm feeling way too shiny. I tried one of these out after running a few blocks late for an appointment, and it worked perfectly. It didn't mess up my make up, didn't leave any weird residue or marks, and the shine disappeared!

Movie Maven says: I LOVE the idea of blotting papers, but I hate the ones that include powder, because my face always ends up looking weird after I use them. These e.l.f. ones are perfect - cheap, plentiful, and effective. I keep them in my bag to de-grease when I've been riding the subway all day. I'd say more, but honestly? Just get them. They're a dollar.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Review- Avon ANEW Rejuvenate Flash Facial Revitalizing Concentrate

Instantly skin feels cooled, looks dramatically revitalized. Texture, tone & the look of pores are visibly improved; visibly blurs imperfections. In just 7 days it begins to fill in the look of fine lines. Skin tone appears more even; pores seem to vanish. In just 2 weeks, skin looks dramatically younger. $48

For the purpose of this review, I will call this product a serum, but it's consistency falls somewhere between a serum and a cream. Serum, cream, whatever you call it, this stuff really works! After just a few days my skin started to look more refreshed and brighter. I realize that this isn't the purpose, but I also feel like I had fewer breakouts while I was using this serum. Bonus! Basically my skin looked like the dull layer that usually sits on top disappeared, making my skin look healthier and more radiant. In addition to making my skin look better, the serum also feels refreshing on. Since I've stopped using it, (we have to switch products often in order to test everything we get) my skin is not as radiant as it had been. As soon as I'm done testing all of the products I've got at the moment, I'll be going back to Avon ANEW Rejuvenate Concentrate.

Sheba says I have the Avon ANEW Rejuvenate Flash Facial Revitalizing Concentrate which I picked up on EBay. I have mentioned it before and I will mention it again -- I LOVE Avon's Anew line. I have had some luck with their other products but Anew is a real star. I have had the same effects as Hillary and my skin feels and looks so much better when I am using it. My face feels like I have had a facial and I think I have -- at home with this Avon ANEW Rejuvenate Flash Facial Revitalizing Concentrate. You skin feels invigorated, fresh, clean, moist, soft and silky. I think it plumps up your skin - which in turn, blurs some of the unwanted lines. You will definitely see and feel a nice difference when you use this.

Review - e.l.f. Studio Eyeliner & Shadow Stick

Achieve color intensity for your eyes with twist-up ease (no sharpening required)! Glide on the dark soft gel “liner” to create dramatic definition to the eyes. $3.00
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e.l.f.'s studio line has more chic packaging and a slightly higher price point than their regular products. The shadow stick line is a great product for $3.00. I have it in black liner with the smoke shadow. The black liner is easy to apply, so you don't need to go heavy. It glides on and is very black, it also is retractable so if you are heavy you can twist out a small amount so you don't break it. I don't line the inside of my eyes EVER so I use this on my lash line when I am wearing fake eye lashes; it really helps hide any bit that would appear to be false. The liner goes on smoothly and creates a nice straight line. I do notice that the only downfall is that it does smudge easily and can feather. I luckily carry the ELF shine eraser wipes so clean up is quick and easy.
The gem of this set is the smoke shadow - this goes on so smooth and deposits a soft smooth application that has GREAT pigment. You'll swear you are using a premier shadow, not a "recession-friendly" product. The color is great, a medium platinum gray. I love this and found application to be so easy and it looks great in the crease of my eye. It stays on throughout the day with only minimal creasing. I am really hoping more colors will be added to the selection - right now there are only four options. Next on my list is the pearl / glow. This smoke is a great color for day and apply a little heavier for night.

Amanda S. Says:
I really love this eyeliner, when I cracked it open I thought 'great, some complicated gizmo....' but really, it the shadow and eyeliner work great together and it's so easy to carry it around. The last time I got a 'combo' thing like this... the caps fell off and the stuff got ruined! But this has survived the nightmare of my purse for over a week so far, I'm glad to say. As for the liner, I haven't had one go on smoother, and that's even comparing it to liners upward of $15 in price. The shadow I think is cute, although I am not sure I will use it as much as other shadows I have. This is a steal at this price, if you use eyeliner all the time and HATE how expensive it can be and also hate when it goes on all messy, get this!

Movie Maven says: Once again, e.l.f. has blown my mind with their value products. $3.00?? What? $3.00 for just the eyeliner would be a steal - it's smooth, has a great retractable feature, is crazy dark black (a plus in my book, but fair girls be forewarned), and stays pretty well in place. I found the amount of smudging to be on par with most drugstore brands - there was a bit, but nothing major.
But then - to include the shadow stick as well? Stick a fork in me, ladies, I'm done. I am a very lazy woman, as well as a consummate snoozer in the mornings, so something that is quick and easy to apply is ideal for me. The shadow stick twists up, you swipe it on, and you're good to go. I found the need to reapply the shadow after a day of wearing it, but what girl wouldn't want to pump up her look a bit before going out for after-work drinks? A plus plus.

Hillary says: Products that multi-task have a special place in my heart (and my purse). This dual purpose sweetheart from e.l.f. is no exception. My stick is in black (eyeliner) and smoke (eyeshadow) and is perfect for the "smokey eye on the go". As I'm sure I've mentioned on this site in the past, I often put my make-up on on the subway on my way to Manhattan. Call me tacky, but it saves me time and the lighting is great. To this end I have to carry everything with me (minus foundation which I do at home). This stick fits right in with my arsenal with a liner which is neither too soft nor too hard and a creamy, blendable shadow. One caveat about this particular color of eyeshadow, make sure to end your application at least a 1/2 inch below your brows and blend up. The first time I applied it I put it too high and it made me look like my eyebrows had grown by leaps and bounds; it stuck right in there. The next time I used it I took my own advice and got a perfect sultry look. For an even softer look you could apply the shadow and go over it with a foam applicator sponge- ever so lightly. That would give you a nice blend. And as you've read above- it's $3. Why $3 and not $1 as e.l.f. usually is? Well e.l.f. has recently released their new "Studio" line (roll your mouse over Studio on the main page of their website). This new collection is chock-full of double duty products which are perfect for ladies on the go. There are also all new Studio brushes which encompass some of the harder to find brushes. I'm totally getting the Studio brow set which comes with a wax and a powder and I'm thinking I can "splurge" and get the Studio Mini Makeup Collection for $15. Check out the site and they'll even recommend products and colors especially for you!

Sheba says the $3 price is outrageous! I am not complaining --it is so amazing. I have a storage area full of liners that I never learned how to use or they didn't look right or something. Believe me, they all cost a lot more than $3 and I gave them plenty of chances!! This took all of one try to look good -- it actually looked like I knew what I was doing. The shadow goes on as easily and you can get a light, medium or heavy look by adding a little more or just wiping a little off -- it stays pretty well and I agree with Movie Maven -- you want to refresh it before heading out at night. However, that is nothing against this product -- I do that with any shadow that I wear. I want to look fresh, even if I don't feel that way. So investing $3 is well worth it for this combo. I think it is a terrific bargain!!

Review- Revlon Artificial Nails

Get the look of glamour. It’s effortless. $8.69

Never in a million years did I think that I of all people would be singing the praises of artificial nails! To be honest, I didn't even want to give them a try, but boy have I changed my tune. I had an event to attend this past Sunday and wouldn't you know I broke four nails down to the nubs. So I decided to give the glue-on nails a try. Let me tell you - they look great! I'm wearing the medium length in red and no one I've shown has thought they were anything but my own nails. I won't lie, I did accidentally glue my fingers to two of the nails, but I'm sure next time I won't have this problem. They are actually easier to apply than you would think as they cover the whole nail, not just the tip like ones done at the salon. And the glue does come with them. I've been wearing them for nine days with only one replacement and no maintenance on the other nails. These nails are the perfect quick fix for less than perfect nails should you need to look your best. Keep checking back with us as we will be running a contest soon to win (among other things) one of five sets of Revlon Artificial Nails.


Movie Maven says: My mother wore fake nails exactly once when I was a kid - she never wears makeup of any kind, really - for a ballroom dance show she was in. I was mesmerized. So long! So bright! So crazy-looking! So of course I headed to Walgreens and got myself a set and glued the suckers on. They looked bonkers, of course, since I was 12, but I kind of loved them. Since then, however, I've never had the need or inclination to wear fake nails, but I figured "Hey - let's give these a try!" I got the French manicure version in a medium length, and let me tell you - medium is too long for me. It took me a couple of days just to figure out how to type with them on. So if you're not used to wearing fake nails, or keep your nails naturally short most of the time, just be sure to start slow! I did like how many sizes were included in the pack - it was really easy to find ones that fit my nails perfectly. The glue works well and was relatively easy to apply; the packaging says to put some on the nail and some on your own nail, but I found it was easier simply to put a few drops on the fake nail, then press on. I didn't have as much luck as Hillary with the maintenance, however, and I think this might be a result of the fact that they were French tips - it's SO easy to see if the white tip is scuffed or chipped. One of the nails got chipped after only a couple of days, and then (because I am clumsy beyond measure) I broke one off. But! The rest of them fought (tooth and nail) not to leave my fingers. You'll need a STRONG remover (and a little soaking) to get them completely off, and even then, you might have some glue weirdness for a little bit on your nails. Overall, if you are looking for fake nails, these are definitely a good bet, but be prepared to fight with them upon removal!

Cityslicker Says: I have these in royalty, they are medium length. The color is a deep burgundy with a touch of amethyst. My nails are very weak so I am the perfect candidate for these. I swear I hadn't really noticed the trend but it seems that fake nails are popping up everywhere lately... So it's cool to get to try these before everyone has them!

Ease of use ~ very simple to apply

Upkeep ~ pretty much none

Removal ~ OMG, painful and damaging to my nails..

Before I applied I used an orange stick pushed the cuticles back and went to town.. They were SO easy to apply and they looked great with the exception that none of them fit on my thumb.. I have a wide thumb nail so I could see my nail on the sides, didn't look very good, looked fake and cheap.. Once they were on they stayed on but when they started to give, they took what I could call the top layer of my nail with it.. The pinkie went first and it left my nail sensitive and raw feeling. I applied another but once the glue decided it has enough well they all started to come off but they did last well over a week so for the price this is worth it since the look was just as good as a salon manicure. I removed the rest of the nails with an acetone remover.. My nails don't look the same, they have more ridges and thereis residue from the glue left behind, the first day after removing my fingertips were very sensitive. All in all, since my thumbs didn't work out I applied a polish that was very similar so that worked out.. If you have sculptured nail and want to take a break from the hefty price these are totally for you.. If you have an event and want something completely different and are on a budget these are for you.. If you have weak thin nails then be careful, these may not be for you.. What I did like is the underneath the nail it is a gold color, I though that was a cool touch.. I won't be getting these in the future.. It's the weak nail thing and my Fred Flintstone thumbs!

Sheba says: I am a combination of everyone. I tried artificial nails a long time ago and swore off of them. However, I thought -- time has passed -- let's give them a try. I have had long natural nails in the past but I found it hard to do mostly anything with them -- so I keep them relatively short and shaped now. I tried the medium length and found them too be too long for ME. I am betting they are just right for most people. It took me a while to get them on right and I have very chunky thumbs also so the sides of my real nails showed through. I followed Cityslicker's advice and painted them all. They all had some staying power - and when I wanted to remove them -- I soaked each finger in a jar of nail polish remover for several minutes and that seemed to do the trick. They really look terrific on and I will wear them for special occasions - where I do not have to use my nails for anything but looks!! You will save on manicures by using these and I believe you will be an expert at applying and removing in no time after using them for a while. These get two fat thumbs up!!

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Review - The Solution by Envision Beauty


The World's finest all in one skincare formula... Right now you buy one and get one free for $74.00

I am in love with this solution. It's really nice and light upon application but is packed with acai, goji, vitamins a, b5, C & E and many other goodies that does a skin good. I use this in the am.. I apply directly to clean skin and it almost immediately sinks in. My skin then feels plump and hydrated, I swear it locks in the moisture after washing in the shower. My skin seems brighter and I feel like my complexion is clearer and more vibrant. This is a perfect product to use now with the transition of the weather boost the skin, feed it and it will repay you with looking healthier and feeling softer.. I would jump on the 2 for one also.. Great price and a pleasure to use!! I wouldn't mind an industrial sized container to just dip myself in!

Review - Liz Earle Energising Hip and Thigh Gel


$42.00 6.7oz Energize your circulation and help eliminate toxins by massaging our stimulating gel into hips
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I have never used a hip gel in the past. The most I have applied to my hip area is body cream or lotion. I am always excited to try a new product and even more thrilled to try a product I have never tried before, then it's a real treat. This is unlike anything else. I have been applying after showering in the am and at night after showering when I get home from the gym. First off, I am applying to my thighs but why not give it a go on my arms too! I apply on my upper arm, cause it basically can use some energizing. The scent is hard for me to read, it's got a touch of menthol that has that cooling effect as well as natural earthy tone too. Since it's a thick gel I thought it would be sticky but it isn't in the least but you must give it a chance to dry down too before getting dressed.. Since using, I don't feel like I have the legs of Cameron Diaz but for me my legs looks smooth and feel soft.. I really like this and do apply body cream over once it has absorbs.. Really cool different product, well works a peek! The results I have seen on my arms is that I don't have the little teeny bumps that I had so although this is toted for the hips ~ other appendages can reap the benefits too!

Deedlejuse says:
I am going to have to agree with Cityslicker on this one. The scent is very different, I really pick up the Rosemary that's in it, but not in a bad way, just a super fresh clean way. I really like it. I have noticed some improvements since I started using, but I still have a lot left. I assume after using up a few bottles I will be REALLY happy with the results, but for now I'm satisfied. I do notice that it is sort of sticky for a while after I apply, but I don't moisturize after application, so I might try that. I have tried a few on these kinds of products before and I prefer the Liz Earl product much more than the rest. I would totally spend $42 on another bottle, it has lasted me forever and really seems to work. Well done Liz Earle!