Archive for the ‘Facial Skin Care’ Category

Eye Wonder By Vasanti Cosmetics Review | Daily Cream Reduces Dark Circles, Puffiness & Fine Lines

Monday, August 30th, 2010

Vasanti Eye WonderVasanti Cosmetics was founded by three Canadian woman in Toronto. They wanted to create products that would suit all women and their different needs.

Eye Wonder Triple Action Eye Treatment Cream has Peptides and Botanicals that are formulated to reduce dark circles, puffiness and fine lines. These active ingredients combat these problems even if it is hereditary or just the aging process, says Vasanti.

This cream is suitable for all skin types and should be used morning and night. I have never heard of this company before, I have taken a look at the web site and the products look quite promising.

Users Conclusions

Below is a list I compiled about what the users think of it:

Pros

  • Lightens dark circles
  • Reduces fine lines
  • Reduces puffiness

I couldn't actually find any bad reviews on Eye Wonder. It is quite a new product though.

Key Ingredients

Dermican, Eurol, Bt Haloxyl, Eyeliss, Matrixyl 3000, Phytelene 773.

Directions

Apply morning and evening for the first month then just once a day for maintenance. Gently dot around the eye from the inner corner out to the under part of the eye brow. This ensures no tugging which can cause fine lines and lost elasticity.

To Sum Up

Ladies who have used this eye cream only had good things to say about it. They say it actually reduces fine lines, puffiness and dark circles.

At $42 for a 20ml jar it is quite pricey, but what eye cream isn't now days! If its within your price range if could be worth a try as all the ladies that have reviewed it found it worked for them.

Buy Vasanti Eye Wonder Cream

Arcona Tea Tree Mask Review | Natural Facial Treatment Reduces Breakouts, Purifies & Cleanses

Sunday, August 29th, 2010

Arcona Tea Tree MaskArcona Tea Tree Mask is suitable for all skin types. It is formulated to cleanse, purify, detoxify and refine the skin. The sulphur and grapefruit extract help reduce breakouts with their detoxifying properties.

Arcona is a holistic skin care line that only uses natural ingredients. I know that there are a lot of ladies looking for alternative skin care lines that don't contain as many synthetic ingredients.

Arcona does recommend using all the mask within 6 months of opening, as it has natural ingredients it won't last as long as products with preservatives.

Users Conclusions

Pros

  • Nice citrus scent
  • Helps prevent acne
  • Evens skin tone
  • Cooling sensation
  • Softens skin
  • Worth the money

Cons

  • Strong sulphur smell

Ingredients

Hamamelis Virginiana Extract (Witch Hazel), Sulphur, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides (Plant Oils), Kaolin, Bentonite, Titanium Dioxide, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree), Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract (Grape), Allantoin, Lavender Extract, Geranium Oil, Citrus Grandis Peel Oil (Grapefruit), Citrus Grandis Seed Extract (Grapefruit).

Directions

After you have cleansed, apply mask and leave on the face for about 15-20 minutes. Then remove with warm water. Can be used 2-3 times a week.

To Sum Up

This mask has proved very popular with users, they say it softens skin and help prevent acne breakouts.

Arcona Tea Tree Mask retails for $30 (2oz). Which is quite expensive but I haven't come across anyone who has said it isn't worth it.

Buy Arcona Tea Tree Mask

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Laura Mercier Face Polish Review | Cream Based Gommage Facial Exfoliator

Saturday, August 28th, 2010

Laura Mercier GommageLaura Mercier Face Polish Gommage Facial is a cream based scrub that should be gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. The facial scrub is designed to leave the skin feeling smooth and toned.

The Gommage is a cleanser and exfoliant in one and is suitable for all skin types.

I have very sensitive skin that gets irritated easily by most scrubs. I find that the Gommages are so much more gentle and effective for me. As it is cream based it isn't as harsh on my skin.

You could use this everyday if needed, but I'd suggest just using it twice a week.

Users Conclusions

This face polish has very good reviews, I can't find a bad word said about it. Ladies from Sephora.com say it is gentle, smells great, leaves skin soft, doesn't dry out skin and leaves a healthy glow. What more could you ask for?

Ingredients

Water (Aqua), Polyethylene, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Sodium C12-15 Pareth-15 Sulfonate, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-3 Cocamide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Macadamia Ternafolia Oil, Triethanolamine, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Polyquaternium-39, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Carbomer, Fragrance (Parfum), Ethylparaben, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernal Flour, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Butylparaben, Propylene Gylcol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Salvia Officianlis (Sage) Leaf, Rose Canina Fruit Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract. May Contain (+/-): Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Red 4 (CI 14700), Yellow 5 (CI 19140).

Tips

A gommage does exfoliate but it not scratchy or grainy like most others.

You apply the cream all over the face and then wait for a couple of minutes and it should feel tacky. Then using your middle finger rub back and forward over your face. It will rub off the gommage along with any dead skin.

To Sum Up

Basically everyone who has used this so far has found it works really well for exfoliating and smoothing skin.

If you want to give the Gommage a try it retails for $30. Which is expensive but according to the ladies using it, it actually works and lasts a long time.

Buy Laura Mercier Face Polish

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Korres Evening Primrose Eye Cream Review | Daily Use Anti-Aging Formula With SPF 8

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

Korres Evening Primrose Eye CreamKorres Evening Primrose Eye Cream has been formulated to reduce the sign of fine lines and dark circles. It also contains an SPF 8 which is a huge plus in my books.

Sun protection plans a big part in the defense against premature aging. This cream can be used morning or night.

The primrose and vitamin C extracts help reduce the loss of moisture from around the eye area, they also help stimulate collagen synthesis. Which should help plump skin whilst eradicating fine lines, says Korres.

I'm not sure how primrose has any thing to do with reducing the loss of moisture in skin. Primrose is used medicinally as a decongestant. I can't find any proof of it helping to reduce moisture loss.

However, Vitamin C is proven to be good for the skin and helps stimulate collagen synthesis.

Users Conclusions

Pros

  • Cheaper than other brands
  • Gets rid of dark circles
  • Gentle
  • SPF 8
  • Not too heavy or sticky

Cons

  • Could be more firming

Ingredients

Evening primrose, vitamins K1, C, E, provitamin B5, Ruscus extract, Zinc oxide.

Directions

Apply cream morning or evening (evening is best) around the eye area. First apply on the lower lid, from the inner corner out use a gentle tapping movement, then up around under the eye brow. Avoid the upper eyelid. The eye area is very sensitive so be gentle, pulling the skin could course more fine lines.

To Sum Up

Most users commented on the price being a lot cheaper than most other eye cream, costing a reasonable $38.

Many found it helped to reduce their dark circles around the eye and like that it contains a SPF 8. A few ladies do say it would be better if it was more firming.

This eye cream might be better suited for ladies that don't require the firming action as much.

Buy Korres Evening Primrose Eye Cream

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Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Foundation Primer Review | Reduces Pore Size & Smooths Skin

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

Clarins Instant Smooth Foundation PrimerI respect Clarins for the change they made to not test any products on animals, and to try and create less waste as possible to help the environment.

Clarins instant Smooth Perfecting Touch is formulated to reduce pore size and smooth skin for a good foundation base. It is also designed to refine lines and wrinkles.

An added perk to this primer is that it promises to reduce pore size. Not many other primers offer this and it is a very good factor to have. Reducing pore size stops so much makeup clogging the pores, therefor coursing less breakouts, in theory anyway!

I would not recommend this for people with oily/acne prone skin as it is oil based, so could course some users to breakout.

Users Conclusions

Pros

  • Smooths skin
  • Moisturizes
  • Reduces pore size

Cons

  • Jar packing (cream can get contaminated)
  • Doesn't refine lines/wrinkles
  • Expensive

Ingredients

Cyclopentasiloxane - dimethicone - dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer - hydrogenated vegetable oil - vinyl dimethicone/methicone silsesquioxane crosspolymer - silica - disteardimonium hectorite - pentaerthryityl tetrtaisostearate - alcohol denat. - tocopheryl acetate - butylene glycol - silica dimethyl silylate - acacia senegal gum - methylparaben - mica (ci 77019) - iron oxide (ci 77491) - titanium dioxide (ci 77891) - carmine (ci 75470).

To Sum Up

Overall most users really favor this product and would purchase it again. They like the benefits of reduced pore size and the hydrating effect it has on the skin.

There are a few people who find it overpriced. It does cost $32 for a small jar, so I can see where they are coming from. However, most fans have said it does spread well and much much is needed, hopefully it should last a while.

Unfortunately most patrons found that it did nothing to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. So Maybe this primer would be better for the younger generation that don't have those worries yet!

Buy Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Foundation Primer

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Arcona Magic White Ice Moisturizing Gel Review | Naturally Hydrates & Tones All Skin Types

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

Arcona Magic White IceArcona Magic White Ice is a natural anti-microbial hydrating gel suitable for all skin types. White Ice is formulated to moisturize, tone and help stimulate cell renewal.

Arcona is proud of the fact that it only uses natural ingredients in all its skin care lines. It doesn't use chemical stabilizers, petro-chemicals or fillers.

Acona says that White Ice should be used within 6 months of opening, as it is made with natural ingredients so they won't last as long as other products.

Users Conclusions

Listed below is a summary of what users have been saying in online reviews:

Pros

  • Very light
  • Absorbs into the skin
  • Provides just enough moisture
  • Cleans pores
  • Great for oily skin

Cons

  • Strong scent (very few didn't like the smell but most people like it)
  • Could be irritating to sensitive skin, although most people had no noticeable irritation
  • Not enough moisture for dry skin

Tips

I think the best way to apply this as with most moisturizing gels, is to apply a small amount to the palms, add a couple of drops of water, then apply a thin layer to the skin.

Ingredients

Agua (Distilled Water), Hamamelis Virginiana Extract (Witch Hazel), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Vaccinium Macrocarpon Fruit Extract (Cranberry), Camellia Sinensis Extract (White Tea), Totara Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract (Apple), Allantoin, Beta Carotene (Vitamin A), Panthenol (Vitamin B-5), Ascorbic Acid Ester (Vitamin C), Tocotrienols (Vitamin E), Grapefruit Seed Extract (Citrus Grandis).

To Sum Up

Arcona Magic White Ice Hydrating Gel is expensive at $38 for a 30ml bottle.

However, for those oily complexion it could be worth the extra as many have reported it doesn't cause out breaks compared to other moisturizers.

Buy Arcona Magic White Ice Moisturizing Gel

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Beautyblender – Season of Love Blender Sponge & Cleanser Kit Review | Gentle Makeup Sponge Cleaner

Thursday, August 12th, 2010

Beauty Blender CleanserBeautyblender Season Of Love Blender Sponge & Cleanser Kit includes 2 makeup sponge applicators and the cleanser to clean them.

A lot of dirt and oil builds up on makeup sponges so it needs to be cleaned thoroughly. If its not clean the dirt will just be transferred back onto the skin.

The cleanser has a light lavender scent and is free from dyes and skin irritants. The sponge helps to blend makeup for a flawless look. The life of a sponge is about three months.

Users of Beautyblender have nothing but good things to say about it. They love that the sponge gives them such flawless coverage and how easy it is to use. One lady says how it is definitely worth the higher price.

Ingredients

Deionized Water, Vegetable-based Cleansing And Sudsing Agents, Mild Surfactants, Emulsifiers, Fragrance.

The Beautyblender kit costs $39.95. A bit over priced if you ask me, it's only a couple of sponges and cleaner!

Buy Beauty Blender Cleanser Kit

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Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Review | Cream To Even Skin Tones & Give A Glowing Complexion

Sunday, July 11th, 2010

Laura Mercier Tinted MoisturizerLaura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer is designed to work as a moisturizer and foundation in one. This makes applying your morning makeup before work a lot faster giving you a few extra minutes in bed.

Laura Mercier says that it is a lightweight formula will leave your skin with a natural finish and a glowing complexion.

It also contains a SPF 20 which is a sweet bonus. This will help prevent the signs of aging as unprotected sun exposure can cause photo-aging and dry skin. In result can lead to: wrinkles, liver spots, dilation of capillaries.

Good Points

Reviews on Amazon are mostly positive about this tinted moisturizer. Most users have said it is:

  • Light and sheer
  • Hydrating
  • Long lasting
  • Very natural looking

However, some users have found it to be a bit watery and so not effective at covering red spots or other blemishes.

Laura Mercier has priced this tinted moisturizer quite high at $42.00 a tube, but the majority of users think that it "deserves it's price tag". They consistently say that good things don't come cheap and that this tinted moisturizer/foundation definitely isn't cheap.

Buy Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer

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Philosphy Daily Facial Moisturizer Review | ‘Hope in a Jar’ Face Cream to Smooth Skin

Thursday, July 8th, 2010

Philosphy's Hope in a JarPhilosphy's Hope in a Jar appears to be aptly named given the mixed reviews of this product. Some adore and others loath it, so it seems you just have to try this product and hope for the best.

It is a daily facial moisturizer and Philosophy say it is suitable for all skin types, although numerous individuals have experienced some side effects such as flaky skin. However, for everyone that has a side effect, there's someone else singing its praises.

Philosphy claims the cream will reduce wrinkles, smooth and hydrate skin in days. Whereas some ladies using it found that it can take a few weeks for the smoothing effects to kick in, possibly as your skin adjusts to the moisturizer.

It is available with SPF which I would recommend as this prevents sun damage and you can also get it for dry sensitive skin too.

Some have described it as being a bit too heavy for oily skin so may block pores, and their are mixed opinions over whether the product feels greasy or not.

Chemically Smooth

This moisturizer is not a good choice for fans of natural ingredients as it is packed with a variety of synthetic chemicals. Chemically enhanced moisturizers are very common, so this doesn't necessarily scream danger, but it has resulted in adverse reactions in some people.

Check the ingredient list to ensure you aren't allergic to any of the chemicals, and if you are unsure it may be worth trying the product on your neck for a few days to see how your skin reacts. Every girl is different, and what works for one skin type won't work for another.

Bad Smell?

The smell of this product has caused some complaints. While some don't seem to notice or even like the smell, others have described it as a 'rancid citrus fruit smell' so be warned. Typically it is described as a medicinal smell, likely as a result of the many synthetic chemical ingredients.

Ingredients

Lauryl Lactate,Behenic Acid, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Glycerin, Behenyl Alcohol, Cyclomethicone,Pentaerythrityl Tetracaprylate/Tetracaprate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Benzyl Alcohol, Retinyl Palmitate, Stearic Acid, Panthenol, Betaglucan, Lavender Oil, Diazolidinyl Urea.

Worth a Try?

The 'Hope in a Jar' moisturizer can lean on the more expensive side of the fence depending on where you get it. However, it is an Amazon bestseller with many people singing its praises. Despite that there's just as many people disappointed with the product. It is just one of those try it and see kind of products.

It is available in 4oz, 2oz and 0.5oz and ranges in price from $20 - $60 depending on where you buy it.

Buy Philosophy's Hope in a Jar

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Dr.Ci Labo Basic Black Blemish Control Cleansing Gel Review | Gentle Moisturizing Makeup Remover

Monday, July 5th, 2010

Dr Ci Labo CleanserDr Ci:Labo Basic Black Blemish Control Cleansing Gel Makeup Remover is a non irritating gel that deeply cleanses dirt and oil from in the pores. It should also leave skin feeling moisturized.

It is recommended for oily/combination skin types and is suitable for every day use.

This cleansing gel is rated highly by users. People say it works well on oily skin to leave it clean and moisturized. It removes makeup and dirt without drying your skin says one fan.

Directions for use

Apply to dry skin and gently massage over the face. Do this for a couple of minutes, then rinse with water.

Ingredient Highlights

Kaolin purifies the pores. Sulfur calms blemishes and reduces inflammation. Moss Extract reduces redness.

Dr Ci:Labo Basic Black Blemish Control Cleansing Gel Makeup Remover costs $26. This is quite expensive compared to some other brands, but the rating is good so maybe its worth a try.

Buy Dr. Ci Labo Black Blemish Control Cleansing gel

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