sunnydelight
Member Since: February 28, 2007Reviews
Bliss Peeling Groovy Facial Serum
WHAT'S ADVERTISED A dermatologist-developed, age-fighting, exfoliating facial serum, Bliss claims that the Peeling Groovy Facial Serum gently sloughs away dead skin cells and debris, lightens dark spots, and minimizes the appearance of pores... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
A dermatologist-developed, age-fighting, exfoliating facial serum, Bliss claims that the Peeling Groovy Facial Serum gently sloughs away dead skin cells and debris, lightens dark spots, and minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines—providing myriad benefits without drying or irritating. This oil-free formula is infused with amino acid antioxidants and is safe to use on sensitive skin.
THE REAL SCOOP
There is no makeup in the world that will beat the look of beautiful glowing skin, and Bliss has a lifetime fan in me. I have used the Peeling Groovy Facial Serum for the past month, and my face has never looked more radiant. Unlike most peeling treatments on the market, this contains moisture-magnetizing amino acid exfoliators, meaning it actually helps to attract moisture levels for supple skin while it exfoliates. Plus it does not use AHAs or any other harsh chemicals, so even those with the most sensitive skin can use it.
My pores look more refined after using this "magic elixir", which claims to take care of all the steps of a multi-step regimen in one simple step. I use 2-3 pumps of the product on clean skin and wait a few minutes for it to dry before moisturizing before bed. It comes in a pump bottle, which is hygenic and provides a measurable amount to use each time. Never mind the bonus of combatting fine lines, the dry flakey skin that I often get in the winter months have not appeared since I started using this product.
The active ingredients include:
-Alpha Amino Acid Exfoliants: Based upon the amino acid, filaggrin, AFA offers the same highly effective results as glycolics, without the associated irritation or redness. It provides effective exfoliation and is gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin.
-Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant vitamin strengthens collagen; brightens, tightens, and lightens skin; and delivers superior age-fighting results by diminishing the appearance of fine lines.
Bottom line: The price point is a bit pricey ($65 CAD), however a little product goes a long way. If you're in the market for a treat for your skin, this may be a good choice to try.
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Vaseline Sheer Infusion Body Lotion
WHAT'S ADVERTISED Vaseline Sheer Infusion Body Lotion with Stratys-3 is a new collection of body lotions that promises "superior moisture across all layers of skin" . New Vaseline® Sheer Infusion™ with Stratys-3™ infuses and suspends... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
Vaseline Sheer Infusion Body Lotion with Stratys-3 is a new collection of body lotions that promises "superior moisture across all layers of skin" . New Vaseline® Sheer Infusion™ with Stratys-3™ infuses and suspends superior moisture across all layers of your skin.* Only Vaseline® Sheer Infusion™ delivers superior moisture** and an unmatched silky feel.
What is Stratys-3™?
Stratys-3™ is the most effective patented moisturizing complex on the market**. It combines three powerful ingredients that infuse and suspend moisture across all layers of skin*-- the top, the core, and deep down.
For more information, check out the product website:
http://www.vaseline.com/index.aspx?locale=en-US
For a video about the science behind Stratys-3™:
http://www.vaseline.com/Video2.aspx?Path=Consumer/YourSkin/Stratys3
THE REAL SCOOP
I am a self-confessed lotion addict - at any given time, there will be several tubes, jars and bottles readily accessible within hand's reach, especially as we descend into the dark winter months. Despite my best efforts to hydrate, the cold air and indoor heating wreak havoc on my skin. Toss in extra vigilence with fervent hand-washing in cold/flu season, and we have very dry skin.
One of my pet peeves with applying lotions is the greasy feeling that just sits on the skin. With Vaseline Sheer Infusion (I tried Vitamin), the product soaks into my skin and my skin actually feels downright velvetty soft. The litmus test of any lotion is whether it will pass the test of time - that is, does it need to be re-applied frequently for results, and the answer for Vaseline Sheer Infusion is "no". The product gets to work quickly and lasts for hours, so I don't need to worry about dry chapped hands/legs/elbows.
There are 3 scents available, I used Vitamin Burst and the scent is light, fresh and not overpowering. With a creamy texture that isn't too viscous, this was easy to apply and lasts all day. I like to use it first thing in the morning after a shower when my skin is still slightly damp, to lock in the moisture.
Bottom line: This is an excellent addition ot my arsenal in the battle against winter dry skin, and I will re-purchase when I've finished using this. Bye bye dry skin!
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Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipcolor
WHAT'S ADVERTISED * Crisper color from pure pigments * Creamier feel from nourishing honey nectar * Lipcolor so rich, so stunning… it’s sensational * 48 Captivating Shades For more product details, check out this... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
* Crisper color from pure pigments
* Creamier feel from nourishing honey nectar
* Lipcolor so rich, so stunning… it’s sensational
* 48 Captivating Shades
For more product details, check out this website:
http://www.maybelline.com/whatsnew/color_sensational/index.aspx
For an idea of what shades are available, check out the online "Shade Selector":
http://www.maybelline.com/whatsnew/color_sensational/index.aspx#/landing/red
FOR BEST RESULTS
Apply your lipstick by starting in the center of your upper lip. Work from the center to the outer edges of your lip, following the contours of your mouth. Repeat the technique on your lower lip.
THE REAL SCOOP
Maybelline's latest lipcolor offering is a winner! A mass-market offering (available at Shoppers, Pharma Plus and other drug stores nation-wide), at the $10 price point it is an excellent alternative to Lancome's Color Fever lipsticks. The lipsticks are extremely chic, with a metal tube encased in clear lucite that match the colour family of the lipstick: red cap for the red family, purple cap for the plum familiy, amber cap for the neutral family and fuschia cap for the pink family.
In terms of texture, the ColorSensational Lipcolor is a relatively moisturizing lipstick. The creaminess (which I assume can be attributed to the honey nectar) feels wonderful in application, and the colour lasts quite a bit longer than your average gel-based moisturizing lipstick.
For this review, I tried out 4 different shades:
Summer Sunset (#615, red family): Beautiful brick red with just the tiniest bit of shimmer that defines the lips without screaming "red", I find it perfect for work or for functions when you just want to look polished and sophisticated (throw on a string of pearls for good measure!). The colour is long-lasting and does not flake or fade into a weird pink colour like some other red lipsticks I own.
Caramel Kiss (#225, neutral family): A sheer caramel wash of colour that is basically "my own lips but better" colour. It's very sheer and subtle pinkish-brown, suitable for low-key occasions where you don't want to look made up. I tend to think that this would be a universally flattering shade.
Cinnamon Stick (#325, neutral family): Bronze-y neutral colour, with a golden sheen that makes it look dimensional. This has an autumn feel for me, and would go well with gold/brown eye makeup or earth tones.
Pink Please (#025, pink family): So pretty! This is a great baby pink colour in a "matte" delivery (ie no shimmer unlike the above colours), but isn't chalky or flakey like some matte lipsticks tend to be. It gives a nice glossy finish, similar to a MAC lustre lipstick however I do find it more drying than the other shades listed above.
Bottom line: Maybelline's ColorSensational lipcolour is a quality product. Although on the pricier side of drugstore lipsticks ($10 CAD), it is well worth the extra couple of bucks, especially when comparing to similar department store offerings at $30 CAD. There is faint waxy/vanilla-y smell to the lipstick, but it didn't bother me. Bonus points for lasting power in a creamy, moisturizing texture (although touch-ups are still required every few hours). I liked the texture, colour consistency, pigmentation and lasting power and find them comparable to MAC lipsticks, which is a big plus. When this haul runs out, I would definitely buy this product again.
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Dior 5-Colour Eye Shadow Quad
WHAT'S ADVERTISED Dior’s bestselling eye palette offers endless possibilities in a seductive range of rich, versatile colors designed for easy application and long wear. THE REAL SCOOP As a MAC eyeshadow user, I was apprehensive about... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
Dior’s bestselling eye palette offers endless possibilities in a seductive range of rich, versatile colors designed for easy application and long wear.
THE REAL SCOOP
As a MAC eyeshadow user, I was apprehensive about purchasing eyeshadow for $55 but I'm glad that I splurged! I've been using the Night Shadow palette for about 2 months and it hardly looks like I've touched it. The reason is that you can use this shadow sparingly; the texture is very silky and is extremely pigmented (even in the very light shades). I often find that some brands that do well with pigments in the deeper shades, fall a bit short on pigmentation in the lighter shades.
The colours in each palette are coordinated, so that they can be worn in tandem or alone depending on what look you want to accomplish. I'm very pleased with the purchase because of how much wear I can get out of the 5 colours (although I do wish the initial hit to the pocketbook isn't so expensive).
Highly recommend!
BEAUTY TIP
Apply the lightest shade to the upper part of the inner eyelid, then blend the darkest shade along the lash line. Shade the outer brow with one of the remaining colors. For more intensity, use a fourth color under the lashes
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Marcelle Essentials 1st Wrinkles Eye Contour Cream
WHAT'S ADVERTISED This product is designed to "prevent the first signs of aging with this ultra-light and non-sticky cream that penetrates skin instantly; allowing you to apply your make-up immediately. Enriched with high performance... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
This product is designed to "prevent the first signs of aging with this ultra-light and non-sticky cream that penetrates skin instantly; allowing you to apply your make-up immediately.
Enriched with high performance ingredients, this unique care will increase micro-circulation, reducing puffiness and dark circles. It deeply moisturizes and protects the delicate eye contour area."
THE REAL SCOOP
Marcelle is sort of the unheralded Canadian skincare line that is ubiquitous in drugstores across the nation. Until I chanced on one of their other products (Hydra C eye contour gel cream), I had no idea that the quality was actually so good! The packaging is unassuming and I had never thought to give it a try until it was recommended to me.
I'm now a convert because all of their products are hypoallergenic, perfume-free and surprisingly effective. This particular product line "Essentials" is geared towards the demographic of late-20s to mid-30s, with the needs of this age group in mind.
In terms of performance, the Essentials 1st Wrinkles Eye Contour Cream is similar to their Hydra-C offering (which has won the "Elle Beauty Grand Prix" for several years in this category), but I will definitely switch to this one now. In addition to instant absorption into the skin and reduction of puffiness under my eyes, I have noticed that the tiny fine lines under my eyes have faded back with this product.
The pump dispenser is a plus in my books, as it allows for hygenic application and storage. A pea-sized amount is pumped out each time, which is enough for both eyes. I have been using this product for a couple of weeks and have not had any issues with the pump. Prior to this, I had actually been using a more upmarket eye gel from MDF, but find the results with this cream to be comparable in effective for about 1/3 of the price!
I will definitely re-purchase this product and am open to trying out the other offerings in this line (and of course keeping you ladies posted about it!)
Format: 0.5 OZ / 15 mL
Suggested retail price: $27.50
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Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash
WHAT'S ADVERTISED: Dove Deep Moisture Nourishing Body Wash with "NutriumMoisture" (tm) is a breakthrough formula that uses 100% natural moisturizers that can absorb completely to nourish skin deep down. Plus it rinses cleaner than ever before... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED:
Dove Deep Moisture Nourishing Body Wash with "NutriumMoisture" (tm) is a breakthrough formula that uses 100% natural moisturizers that can absorb completely to nourish skin deep down. Plus it rinses cleaner than ever before, so your skin feels soft and smooth.
http://www.dove.us/#/Products/BarSoapBodyWash/BW_DeepMoisture.aspx/
THE REAL SCOOP
The product is marketed as "superior natural nourishment for your skin", which is recommended for dry skin. The Dove line of products already has body wash products that are geared towards dry skin (like the Cream Oil body washes, which I use as well), but the main differentiating factor may be that this is comprised of natural ingredients.
Having tested it in last hot throes of summer, the body wash itself is actually quite effective. It lathers in a satisfying way on a poof, cleans, and leaves skin feeling beautifully soft. I usually use a moisturizing lotion after my showers but with this body wash I did not have to do so, and my skin still felt great. One caveat should be made: this review is being down in the summer and it may not be the case in the dry winter season.
I have dry/dehydrated skin and having a moisturizing body wash makes a huge difference. Some products on the market are not moisturizing enough (leaving skin feeling taut and dry), while others are too "heavy" and leave a weird film on your skin after the shower. This product is pitch perfect, leaving skin soft, smooth and clean!
Other reviewers have mentioned a "soap-y" smell, but I didn't have a problem with it. It is similar to the traditional Dove barsoap smell, which smells "clean" to me. It is not a cloyingly sweet or overpowering smell, so it is actually quite nice. Perhaps Dove will create a fragrance-free formulation for this, as they are wont to do for sensitive skin types.
Overall, I would rank this higher than comparable products on the market (Aveeno, Olay with Ribbons) and I would re-purchase this product when it runs out. Hopefully this will stand up to the test of cold Canadian winters!
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Dior Skin Airflash Spray Foundation
WHAT'S ADVERTISED An ultra-fluid mist foundation that delivers an "airbrushed" effect with precision and ease. Evens out skin tone and visibly diminishes the appearance of fine lines and skin irregularities. Available in 5 shades: - Light... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
An ultra-fluid mist foundation that delivers an "airbrushed" effect with precision and ease. Evens out skin tone and visibly diminishes the appearance of fine lines and skin irregularities.
Available in 5 shades:
- Light Beige 200
- Medium Beige 300
- Cameo 202
- Sand 301
- Honey 400
THE REAL SCOOP
I have never been a fan of foundation (in fact, I usually use a tinted moisturizer if I need to look pulled together or nothing at all) but this one was an instant winner for me! The spray foundation is lightweight on and the effect is most impressive: it is essentially a smooth translucent layer that evens skin tone and gives me a glowing flawless look. The coverage is buildable and it doesn't feel like you're wearing anything. Even in the heat of the summer and in a hot dance club, the foundation stayed in place for me.
The coverage being a "veil" as opposee to mask-like means thatyour skin gets to shine, and the texture of the foundation makes your skin very soft. I don't need to use primer with this foundation and it stays in place all day/night.
In terms of application, although you can spray it from the aerosol can (70 ml. / 2.3 fl. oz) directly on your face in a "Z" pattern (being sure to hold it about 8" away from the face), the makeup artists at Dior all use it on a kabuki brush to apply it. The result is an incredible airbrushed effect... I imagine it would be pretty strange aiming the spray at your face and messy trying to keep your clothes/hair clean, so I use the brush method for best results. I've tried both kabuki and MAC 187 stippling brush with much success.
Overall, this product is a win for me. The price point is a bit steep ($60 CAD) but for a high quality "going out" product, this is worth it.
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Always Flexi-Style Liners
WHAT'S ADVERTISED Sometimes you need a little extra protection. That’s why there’s Always Pantiliners. Wear them every day to capture light discharge, during the light flow days of your period, for slight urine loss or even as a backup to... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
Sometimes you need a little extra protection. That’s why there’s Always Pantiliners. Wear them every day to capture light discharge, during the light flow days of your period, for slight urine loss or even as a backup to tampons.
- Thinnest most flexible protection
- Soft Top Layer, designed for comfort
- Wrap around edges; Flexible edges fold under to fit multiple panty styles
http://www.always.com/products/detail/always-flexi-style
THE REAL SCOOP
Always Flexi-Style panty liners are extremely thin, and can almost be forgotten when they are worn. The panty liner has a sticky underside that can be folded every which way to accomodate different underwear styles, from granny panties to sexy little thongs.
It is a logical addition to the Always family of panty liners, although it doesn't feel like it has enough "sustance" to actually lock away light flow/spotting/fluids, it was sufficient for very light flow days. I liked the product, however I feel that at this price point, it makes the most sense for me personally to just use the other (slightly thicker) Always liners: Thin Liners and Dri-Liners, as opposed to switching between different products from day to day.
The one thing these flexi-style liners have over those other liners is that you will be able to customize the fit for different panty styles. All in all a great product.
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Always Infinity Pads
WHAT'S ADVERTISED The world's first pad of its kind, Always Infinity offers women powerful absorbency like never before. It's made with an über-absorbent material called Infinicel that has the power to absorb 10x its weight, yet... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
The world's first pad of its kind, Always Infinity offers women powerful absorbency like never before. It's made with an über-absorbent material called Infinicel that has the power to absorb 10x its weight, yet remains amazingly light. With a revolutionary wing design that fits the curvature of your panty, microdots designed for fast absorption, and an incredibly soft cover, Always Infinity is a pad like no other.
THE REAL SCOOP
With sanitary napkins having been around and been (fairly) effective ad inifinitum, I was somewhat skeptical about whether the "wheel" required any re-invention. After using the Always Infinity napkins, I can tell you without a doubt this wheel has been re-invented and I'm not going back!
This is a well-thought out product with various features that will give you an ultra-comfortable and absorbent experience, so much so that you may forget that you are having your period. The product is ultra thin (2-3mm), and is super sticky so that it does not shift out of place. Despite it's thin nature, it was able to handle heavy flow easily and did not leak. The comfortable feeling is from the top layer, which is cotton-soft and does not cause chafing. The thin nature of the pad lends to discretion, simply because it feels like there isn't anything there.
In terms of absorption, the pad is designed to funnel bodily fluids to the bottom of the pad away from the body using "micro dots" in the middle and slotted "grooves" in the back. The back end of the pad is (rightfully) flared out, so as to capture any potential leakage, and the grooves help it to move with you, instead of crumpling up. I have been doing high-intensity workouts (Cross Fit) using these pads, and they caused no discomfort whatsoever.
In terms of price point, if it is only a dollar or two more than the usual suspects, this is definitely worth the investment. Ladies, this wheel has been re-invented successfully!
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Maybelline New York Pulse Perfection Vibrating Mascara
WHAT'S ADVERTISED The new Maybelline Pulse Perfection Mascara engages in the new high tech battle field of vibrating mascaras. The product purportedly has 7000 vibrations per minute, which help to "transform your lashes to... +
WHAT'S ADVERTISED
The new Maybelline Pulse Perfection Mascara engages in the new high tech battle field of vibrating mascaras. The product purportedly has 7000 vibrations per minute, which help to "transform your lashes to perfection".
Details:
* Patent-pending elastomer brush vibrates 7,000 times per stroke
* Provides clump-free definition, intense color, and shine
* Waterproof; also available in washable formula
* Builds lash volume, length, and adds curl
* Buildable formula
* Ideal for All Skin Types
* Contact lens safe
FOR BEST RESULTS:
Step 1: On the mascara cap, pull plastic tab to remove it completely, then discard.
Step 2: Press the button to activate pulsation. Release the button to stop.
Step 3: While pressing the button, place brush at base of lashes and move slowly towards lash tip. Continue applying coats to achieve preferred lash look.
THE REAL SCOOP
There are only so many iterations and technological advances in the mascara/wand combination, so a new gimmick was introduced in the market within the past year: vibrating mascaras. Within the past year, we have seen Estée Lauder release TurboLash, followed shortly by Lancôme launch of Ôscillation and more recently, Prescriptives came out with Motor-Eyes.
This Maybelline product takes the innovation from these brands and brings it to a mass market drug store price point, and the end result is competitive enough against these other products that it is an intriguing buy. Although many will balk at the $15 price point for a Maybelline mascara, this is quite a bit less than the department store brands and perhaps a worthy foray into realm of the vibrating mascaras.
This product does not add a lot of outstanding volume or length, but it does a good job in creating natural enhancements to your lashes for a daytime look. WIth the new vibrating technology, if you follow the directions for "best results" (ie move slowly, resist the urge to wiggle the wand and let the vibrations do the job for you) you will be able to achieve a "double coat" look in a relatively short period of time during your first go.
This is definitely a product for a natural day look. For myself, with my skimpy lashes I need a bit more to add "oomph" to my eyes. There are a lot of products out there that can accomplish the same results that this mascara can, for the same or less money, however it does save a marginal bit of time for those who are in a rush and can't wait to do the second or third coat.
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