bareMinerals Skin Rev-er Upper

horrifying

It took 3 Months to repair the damage this did with only 3 Weeks of use. My skin is already prone to dryness, but the glycolic and salicylic acids in this dried my skin out and made it flake. I love BareMinerals, but certainly not this. their website says "like a daily multivitamin supplement with the added benefits of botanicals, glycolic and salicylic acids." Just because its Botanical, doesn't make it OK! Is Poison Ivy OK? I wish I knew what "botanicals" they are talking about but the glycolic & salicylic acids together were working like a daily chemical peel. I would NEVER recommend this to anyone with normal or dry skin. Maybe if you have oily skin or acne, but even then, I dont know if daily application is wise. Especially if you're using any other kind of exfoliant in your routine. This is certainly NOT "perfect for all skin types". BE CAREFUL.

February 15, 2008

Mario Badescu Silver Powder

the jury is still out...

I love Mario Badescu products, but I'm still unsure about this. I dampen a cotton ball & dip it in the powder and pat the paste on my nose. I *think* it has helped reduce blackheads, but really, I'm unsure. It's not like they just melt away. I dont have oily skin, so I can't attest to the dryness, but it hasnt dried out my normal skin either. I'll continue to use it and update if I have any revelations.

February 15, 2008

BareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15

I never thought I'd say this....I love BareMinerals!

I previously reviewed this and thought the bismuth was tearing up my skin. I was wrong! It was the bareVitamins Skin Rev-er Upper that was doing it! since I stopped using that, the BareMinerals have been amazing. I love the sheer to medium coverage I get (too heavy looks terrible on me) and the reflective properties helps my dry skin look fresh. It does not seem to last a full 12 hours on me, but for most of the day, I look fresh and alive. I love it. no bad reactions, no dryness. The jars don't leak (and I travel a lot)but I wish it all was a bit cheaper. I'll take 2 stars off for price and longevity.

February 15, 2008

Lola Oil-Free Sheer Duo Foundation

Paraben Free Creme Duo Foundation

humm - perhaps the Paraben Free version is new. I didn't see it listed here. another reviewer commented on how this contains parabens. this one does not-maybe its reformulated, but they don't sell another type at my Ulta. Anyhow - I love this - I have it in Medium. its definately light coverage, and I actually use the darker shade to mask under eye circles. I dab the lighter shade on areas I want a little more coverage and blend in the under eye area. I love that this is in a gorgeous bright red compact, I keep it in my purse for late afternoon touchups. It comes with a sponge applicator and the bottom tray its located in is vented, so you can moisten it or wash it and it won't get funky. I dont think it is anything I would wear every day. there isnt much product for $35, but its great to wear when I'm feeling lazy or on the go.

February 15, 2008

Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher

its OK

i love the smooth, soft finishing effect - its a great primer for my dry skin. but i dont think it does anything to actually "improve" my pores or the texture of my skin. I doubt I'll re-purchase.

December 13, 2007

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo

perfection in a bottle!

I resisted buying this for the longest time...until that dreaded day that I took matters into my own hands (home hair color) and wound up with very dry processed hair. I was in a panic - and I remembered my dear cousin telling me about this shampoo & conditioner and I bought it. In one use it transformed my brittle hair in to luxurious, flowing soft, sexy hair! I have used it every day for 2 months with no weigh-down...but I do use a clarifying shampoo every 2 weeks. It has a refreshing mint scent, which scared me at first since I am sensitive to mint (at least in skincare) but it did not irritate. (I don’t experience a tingle like the other reviewer). You will only need a small amount, so even though the price is daunting, there really is nothing else like it. My at-home hair color resists fading when using this shampoo. I will not be without it!

December 10, 2007

Maybelline New York Full 'N Soft Washable Mascara

why spend more?

I've spent top dollar on mascaras - but I keep coming back to this. it doesnt clump, it goes on smooth, it builds and lengthens, and it stays all day without irritating my eyes or flaking off. perfect! several color choices - perfect price!

December 10, 2007