Tag: Health

Algenist Firming and Lifting Cream

Algenist is a fairly new brand of skincare that I was introduced to last year.  I really loved the products that I have used (see my review at http://tinyurl.com/72b6eqg) so I was excited to try their new Firming & Lifting Cream ($94 USD)!

This product is an ultra-firming and restructuring cream that tightens and lifts while reinforcing skin structure.  The claim is that it leverages the power of alguronic acid and ProPeptide3. Brought together in a never-before-seen antiaging complex, these ingredients boost production of skin’s key structural proteins: elastin, collagen, and proteoglycans. As it strengthens skin’s structure, this advanced formula redefines facial contours, leaving skin smooth, sculpted, and lifted.

Algenist Firming and lifting cream contains This cream also contains avocado oil, phytosterols, and olive fruit oil to moisturize and nourish the skin. It is dermatologist tested, ophthalmologist tested, for all skin types, hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and not tested on animals.  It does not contain parabens, sulfates, sythetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates or triclosan.

What I think:  The texture of this cream is very thick, like a butter or a balm.  But it is not greasy once applied.  I have been using it morning and night for a couple of weeks on my face and neck.

My skin looks good, but I don’t know how much firmer it is.  I’m lucky not to have sagging skin (yet), but I do like the moisture this gives my skin and my neck is smooth.  I will continue using this every day to prevent sagging skin.

This is available at www.algenist.com and www.sephora.com.

Enjoy!

Wella Professional Brilliance Shampoo & Conditioner

Wella Professionals Brilliance Collection is fab for imparting shine in dry, color-treated hair.

The claim from the Wella website is “Bring the brilliance of Koleston Perfect and Color Touch into a new sensorial dimension with triple-blend care technology and diamond dust. Multi-level conditioning products for all hair textures.”

I have been using the Shampoo and Conditioner from this line, and I’m enjoying them fairly well.  The scent is light and pleasant, but not very distinctive.  The shampoo is thin and lathers okay.  The conditioner was fairly thick, and seemed to condition well.

I find that this system leaves my hair shiny and soft.  And I love that it protects my hair color.

Find out where to purchase at www.wella.com.  Enjoy!

CoverGirl and Olay Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation

I love multitasking cosmetics — anything that does double duty in one step is okay in my book!

In the Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation ($15.99 USD), CoverGirl & Olay combine foundation and hydrating serum to cover fine lines and wrinkles and helps hydrate to improve skin tone over time.

The benefits of this creamy foundation are:

  • Instantly covers discolorations and age spots
  • Hydrates to improve skin tone over time
  • Foundation + Serum
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There are 14 shade available.  I use Buff Beige, which is gorgeous.  It is a little darker than I would usually get, but since it blends in so beautifully, it looks natural on my skin.

I highly recommend this foundation/serum!

CoverGirl products are available at a mass market retailer near you.  Enjoy!

Purchase It Cosmetics First Today’s Special Value on QVC!

Beginning at Midnight, Eastern Time, on January 13, 2012, QVC’s Today’s Special Value will be from one of my fave cosmetic companies — It Cosmetics.  This is their first TSV, and it is a good one, packed with some of my favorites.  Here are the details:

  • The worldwide launch of the Heavenly Luxe Dual Airbrush Concealer/Foundation Brush ($48 value)
  • The brand new launch of the Supersize Bye Bye Pores Silk HD Anti-Aging Micro-Powder ($48 value)
  • Full Size Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Treatment Concealer ($24 Value)
  • Heavenly Luxe Powder Brush ($48 Value)

I received a sample of this collection — and it is fantastic!  I have already tried the concealer, powder and I have the Heavenly Luxe Brush.  I love all three of these products and use them regularly.  The combo of the concealer and powder create a flawless base for the rest of your makeup. The brush is so soft and applies the powder perfectly.

The Dual Airbrush Concealer/Foundation brush is new.  I do like to use brushes to apply my liquid and cream foundations.  They blend in the product so well.  This brush is perfect with the creamy and thick concealer.  The brushes are densely packed and deposit the product evenly on the skin.  This concealer can also be used as a full-coverage foundation, if you need the extra help — so both ends of the brush can be used to apply it.

The price on this set is $49.98 with a value of $168.  Talk about bang for your buck! To learn more about this, go to www.QVC.com.  You can purchase online all day on January 13th and catch it on tv throughout the day.  Enjoy!

Last Minute Skincare Gift Sets

Last minute skincare gifts aren’t difficult to find, but the ones below can keep you or a loved one’s skin glowing through the winter!

IO Beauty Moisture Concentrate ($32 USD) — Luxurious daily emulsion instantly hydrates to fortify skin’s optimum moisture balance. Visibly smoothes lines and wrinkles and works to restore elasticity and radiance.
To use: Massage onto cleansed skin, every morning and evening after Treatment Concentrate, smoothing over face and neck.www.shopiobeauty.com.

FixMySkin Healing Balm Unscented 1% Hydrocortisone Value Pack ($25 USD) — This value pack contains a FixMySkin Healing body balm, a FixMySkin Healing face balm and a FixMySkin Healing lip balm formulated with 1% hydrocortisone and without fragrance. The balm provides relief for several common skin conditions such as dry skin, chronic chapped lips, psoriasis, eczema, insect bites, poison ivy, seborrheic dermatitis and allergic skin reactions to other products. The 1% hydrocortisone penetrates the skin to medically heal skin problems that other balms can’t, and the special formulation allows for a higher level of effectiveness compared with plain hydrocortisone cream. Simply rub the salve on the needed area 2-3 times daily to provide effective over-the-counter therapy for your skin.In this value pack, you’ll get 3 sizes that make it easy to carry in your purse, tote or bag. They’re also perfect for travel as each is less than 3 oz. To purchase, visit www.fixmyskin.com.

Wei Eye Need a Holiday ($60 USD)  — Diminish the appearance of puffiness, dark circles and fine lines with a boost of Chinese ancient herbal remedies for beautiful well-rested eyes. After just 10-15 minutes, you will visibly see the appearance of puffiness disappear, and your eyes will look refreshed and brighter. Over time, the skin around the eyes is left smoother, brighter and younger looking. (Includes 0.5oz Mulberry Leaf 3-in-1 Eye Cream and 4 pack of Tibetan Chrysanthemum Correcting Eye Treatment Pads).  This holiday collection is available at SpaceNK stores nationwide and online at www.weibeauty.com and www.spacenk.com.

VMV Hypoallergenics Are You Glistening? ($31 USD)  — This kit contains three of their most popular “moo-sturizers” (they’re that rich and soothing) leave ruddy complexions to Santa, so you can jingle “belle” all winter long.

The whimsical gift box contains full-sizes of:

SuperSkin Care: Creammmy Rich Intensive Moisture Milk for Dry Skin. 120 mL (4 Fl Oz) — As gentle as it is loaded with rich lubricants, this deliciously sumptuous, creamy skin milk boasts extra-soothing emollients to effectively hydrate and soften even pathologically dry skin.

Know-It-Oil 125 mL (4.2 Fl Oz) — Clinically-validated, 100% USDA-certified organic virgin coconut oil. Cholesterol + trans fat-free. An incomparable moisturizer for face and body with fatty acids native to skin. This food-grade, organic skinutraceutical is a true “oil”-rounder — as great for skin on the outside as for skin (and cells, and heart, and overall health!) on the inside.

Armada Moisturizing, Protective Lip Balm SPF 60. 10 g (.35 Oz.) — Prevents lip darkening, burning, fine lines, and sun-related blisters. Ultra-rich lubricators soothe, and repair even very chapped lips from sun, heat, wind or cold. An absolute winter must-have. Purchase at www.vmvhypoallergenics.com.

Does Your House Smell Like The Holidays? No? Try One Of These Home Fragrances!

Warm up your space with a spicy holiday home fragrance. The products below will make your house smell festive and inviting.
Slatkin & Co. Wallflowers® Pluggable Home Fragrance Starter ($8.50 USD) — Green Tree Night Light — This night-light emits a soft, glowing light. Pair with your favorite Wallflowers Fragrance Bulb (sold separately) to fill an entire room with fragrance.  Purchase at www.bathandbodyworks.com.

Soap and Paper Factory Tin Candles ($18 USD) — This line of hand poured 100% pure soy candles are housed in beautifully printed vessels (that are totally eco-friendly and made in the USA) that are actual needlepoints created specifically for this line. Perfect for bedroom, bathroom, home or office, these nature-inspired fragrances are relaxing and wholesome. Approximately 55 hour burn. Available in Spiced Clove, Balsam, Burnt Vanilla, and Warm Amber. Perfect holiday scents.  Available at www.soapandpaperfactory.com.

Thymes Frasier Fir Pinecone Reed Diffuser ($38 USD) This holiday season, spread your favorite home fragrance in  a festive, eco-friendly way. Evoking Frasier Fir’s forest inspiration, this  pinecone-shaped diffuser enhances any décor. Fill the 3-inch-tall bronze  receptacle with the fragrant oil; reeds layer the air with fresh-cut fragrance. The aromatic snap of crisp Siberian fir needles, heartening cedarwood and relaxing sandalwood form a refreshing bed of crisp, just-cut forest fragrance. Undertones of rich  floral musk deepen and soften the resinous woody notes, for a scent that’s mountain fresh, yet cozy and comforting. www.thymes.com.  Enjoy!

New Hair Products For Fab Fall Looks

Looking to update your hair this fall?  Try a new, darker color, a new color-enhancing shampoo, or a fun hair extension.  Below are some fun products that will help you look fabulous!

Kelly Van Gogh MASTER BLEND Multi-Dimensional Luxury Hair Colour Kit ($49.00 USD) —  Kelly’s proprietary cold pressed caviar oil delivery system is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, C, and D, and amino acids. Combined with amino acids and keratin proteins, the formula also replenishes weakened hair fibers and stimulates collagen growth needed to grow and strengthen hair. Available in ten shades, the hair colour delivers 100% gray coverage with an ammonia alternative, MEA, which is very gentle on the hair. The MASTER BLEND Multi-Dimensional Luxury Hair Colour kit is simple and easy to use for a goof-proof application. The result is glossy, healthy hair with a beautiful and youthful shine. Available at www.kellyvangogh.com.

L’Oréal Paris Féria Midnight Collection ($9.99 USD) — Féria introduces the new Midnight Collection to reinvent black hair color by revealing the nuances and undertones of this iconic, seductive shade. Custom-blended by master colorists, each shade shimmers with its own unique highlights and combines delicate tones and hints of tint to be visible, even on the darkest hair.  Available at www.lorealparis.com and chain drug, food and mass market retailers.

TouchBack Plus is the FIRST total system of interlocking formulas for color renewal, maintenance, and gray root touch-up to keep hair looking perfect between permanent colorings. Unlike at-home dyes,TouchBack Plus lets you customize color vibrancy by choosing your perfect combination of Shampoo, Conditioner and Leave-In Conditioner in Color or Clear … without harsh chemicals.  No ammonia, peroxide or sulfates. The collection includes:

TouchBack Plus Color Shampoo($29.95): Cleanse hair and revive dull color with sulfate-freeMicro Foam™.  Each wash adds a layer of shiny color to both natural and color-treated hair, while protecting hair from UVA/UVB damage, oxidation and fading.

TouchBack Plus Color Conditioner($29.95): The perfect blend of hydration and color, this conditioner adds color to both natural and color-treated hair.

TouchBack Plus Color Leave-In Conditioner ($29.95): This unique, patented Micro Foam™ treatment colors and conditions natural or color-treated hair anytime, anywhere.

TouchBack Plus Clear ($24.95): Shampoo, Conditioner and Leave-In Conditioner can be alternated with the COLOR products to maintain your optimum color level, while providing superior fade protection, hydration and shine.

Available in eight shades:  Rich Black, Dark Brown, Medium Brown, Light Brown, Ash Blonde, Golden Blonde, Light Auburn and Dark Auburn.  Visit www.touchbackplus.com to learn more.

POP Clip-In Animal Print Strips ($10.00 USD) Extensions that let you embrace your inner tiger. Celebrities on and off the red carpet have been spotted sporting theseason’s must-have hair trend: animal print extensions. Take a walk on the wild side and try out the trend cruelty-free with POP Clip-In Animal Print Strips, one-inch clip-in extensions that give hair a fierce effect. Each bright strip offers 16 inches of color that pops for standout hair that gets noticed.

A part of POP’sFreestyle Collection, Animal Print Strips are made with Tru2Life ® Heat-Friendly hair. The versatile strips can be curled or straightened with thermal styling tools just like your own hair, complementing any style you create. Choose from six fun and ferocious patterns or mix and match multiple to express yourself through your hair.

FANTASY COLORS: Ginger Tiger, Pink Tiger, Blue Tiger, Purple Tiger, White Tiger, Red Tiger

WHERE TO FIND IT: ULTA, ULTA.com and JC Penney Salons

2011 Nordstrom Beauty Gift With Purchase

Right now, customers who visit Nordstrom.com and spend $100 on Cosmetics and Fine Fragrances will receive an exclusive gift valued at over $80. This chic black mini carry-all is large enough to fit all of your beauty essentials and comes complete with 14 luxurious samples from fan favorites including Kate Somerville, Bare Escentuals, Living Proof and more.

As an added bonus, customers who spend over $125 will also receive a Lancôme 3-piece set valued at over $50.

GIFT WITH PURCHASE:

 

·         Arcona Gentle Solution Treatment

·         Balenciaga Paris Glass Vial

·         Bare Escentuals bareMinerals® Flawless Definition Curl & Lengthen

·         Cashmere Mist Whipped Perfume packettes

·         Caudalie Premier Cru’ Cream

·         Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Cream

·         Clinique Quickliner for Eyes in Black

·         Elie Saab Mini VOC in Box

·         Kate Somerville ExfoliKate® Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

·         Laura Mercier Deluxe Primer

·         Living Proof ‘Full’ Body Boosting Thickening Cream for All Hair Types

·         Mario Badescu Seaweed Night Cream

·         MOR Sachets of Black Currant Iris (not pictured)

·         philosophy the microdelivery exfoliating wash

 

ADDED BONUS:

 

·         Lancôme Génifique Eye Youth Activating Eye Concentrate

·         Lancôme Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate

·         Lancôme Cils Booster XL Super Enhancing Mascara Base

 

Shop at Nordstrom or www.nordstrom.com to purchase.  Enjoy!

 

Pur Minerals Fall 2011 Collection

Pur Minerals have added some glam fall products to their line.  From flawless skin, to sparkly eyes, to a shimmery lip, this collection will take you through fall right into the upcoming holiday season!  Three of my favorites are:

4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation with Skincare Actives ($27.00) — The newly enhanced formula has everything you love about the original 4-in-1 and more—same great coverage, same lightweight feel, same no-mess mineral makeup, but now with NEW built-in skincare ingredients, clinical results and sophisticated packaging.

Never tried Pür? There’s never been a better time than now. With this one compact, the newly enhanced formula has been clinically proven to:

  • Correct, prevent and interrupt your skin concerns
  • Smooth away the look of lines and wrinkles
  • Plump, lift and firm the skin’s appearance
  • Balance uneven skin tone

Liquid Metal Eye Shadow 4pc Stick Kit ($60.00, sale price $22.00) — Turn up the heat with Pür’s long-wear Liquid Metal Eye Shadow Sticks. Available in four molten metallic hues with iridescent shimmer, these smudge-proof shadow sticks capture the light from all angles to create a megawatt, multidimensional effect. Effortlessly apply as an eye crayon or liner and feel the creamy, water-resistant formula cool the skin as it colors. The shades are True Cobalt, Iced Bronze, Steel Envy and Midnight Chrome.

Temptress Lip Shine 3 Piece Kit ($54.00, sale price $22.00) — Meet the final word in wet-looking lips. Our luxurious Lip Shine lacquers drench your pout in pure, provocative colour with a high gloss finish that doesn’t just shine—it outshines. Infused with intensive hydrators, vitamins and minerals, Pür’s long-wear formula gives you irresistibly brilliant lips that demand attention. Just try to look away. We dare you.  The shades are a pink, a coral and a soft red — Entice, Enchant and Allure. This would also make an excellent gift.

Visit www.purminerals.com to learn more and purchase.  Enjoy!

3LAB Perfect BB Cream Receive Flawless Skin And Give To Breast Cancer Awareness!

3LAB Perfect BB Cream

I have been waiting for a while to try a BB Cream.  Big in Asia, BB creams are touted to be a combination moisturizer, primer, light foundation, SPF and to control oil (bb either stands for beauty balm or blemish balm).

I recently tried 3LAB’s Perfect BB Cream. Infused with 3LAB’s signature bio-engineered growth hormone and apple stem cell technology, PERFECT BB CREAM SPF 40 is a sheer tinted moisturizer designed regenerate new skin cells, brighten, moisturize, and protect the skin with a hint of sheer color.  A proprietary blend featuring Beta White, a biomimetic peptide that whitens, provides added benefits to illuminate the skin.

As an alternative to foundation or as a foundation primer, BB  CREAM will protect the skin from harmful sunrays, sooth and calm irritated skin and illuminate the skin while fighting the signs of aging, It is available in three shades: Shade #01, Shade #02 and Shade #03.  Each shade blends smoothly into the skin and provides a translucency and clarity with a non-greasy and quick absorbing formula.

What I think:  This cream has a fairly thick consistency, and a little goes a long way. I dab just a bit around my face and smooth it on with a sponge or brush.  I then take the included sponge roller and smooth it over my face to basically melt the product into my skin for a natural finish.  This gives me a matte look.  This is full coverage, so make sure you get the right shade.  I have shade #2 which is a beige that is a bit too yellow for my skin.  I do like how this feels and looks and love the high SPF.

Purchase at www.barneys.com. 3LAB joins the fight against breast cancer by donating 10% of the profits from Barney’s New York to CEW’s Cancer and Careers when purchasing the new Perfect BB Cream during October and November.   Enjoy!