Makeup
- GigiSD » See my profile
- Points: 438580
- Reviews: 1103
Here are all my reviews:
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I'm a huge fan of Paula's Choice products, for the most part. I love the fact that Paula uses retinoids gentle enough to heal and revive skin without burning it. I love her idea that any skin care product which is used on the rest of your face can and should be used around the eyes! The results of this are good. With consistent use, you can expect help with aging skin, acne, and discoloration. Skin will be smooth and definitely appear younger and luminous. My problem with this particular formula, however, is that it was far oilier than most of the others. My skin didn't absorb it easily, despite the fact that I used just the smallest bit necessary over my face and neck. This would be a nine- or ten-star rating otherwise, but the feel took away some stars.
November 1, 2013
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"Anxious" is an understatement about my feelings to try Boscia's "Luminizing Black Mask." I had read about the ingredients--a premier clay containing sixty-seven minerals works to purge your complexion's pores of oil, grime, makeup, and any other residue (it brought to mind an excellent charcoal-based shower gel by DHC which leaves face and body cleaner than clean!). This also contains Vitamin C for overall skin health and witch hazel, a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic to kill blemish-causing bacteria. My face is in good shape and I am grateful; sometimes I just want a "fresh start" and thought this would be it. I know to use a good amount of a peel-off mask, as I sold Avon for many years and used all of their masks. I had never had a bad experience. Unfortunately, Boscia was another story. The deep, dark color took me aback at first. It becomes difficult to work with quickly (it starts to harden somewhat), so you have to spread it as gently and fast as possible, avoiding the eye area (especially eyebrows, as it will entangle itself in small hairs). The problem was that after twenty minutes half of the mask had dried and half hadn't. I didn't want to overdry my skin, but I left it on for several more minutes so I could attempt to peel it away. That was much more difficult than peeling Elmer's Glue from my hands as a child (Volta--how did you know I did this? I can't stop laughing!). Between attempts at peeling and lots of warm water, I did eventually rid my complexion of this, but it was far too much work. The results were nice--not exceptional--and certainly not good enough to warrant the cost of this or the labor involved. The next time I have an urge for a "fresh start," I'm going to save the $34 and buy something I know which works from the drugstore.
November 1, 2013
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I have an addiction to Christian Dior eye shadows--unfortunately, I can't always afford the palettes I want. Maybelline does a tremendous job with their "Expert Wear Eye Shadow Quads." The colors are beautifully complementary. They are well pigmented and apply effortlessly. And they're still on your eyes, looking good, at the end of a very long day when you're ready to pass out. Great product!
October 31, 2013
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Boscia's blotting linens get the job done easily. One sheet removes oil and grime from my face without disturbing makeup. I have to agree with "Tall Red Amanda" below that I wish the packaging would have the papers pop up and be more sturdy. Other than that, I like these quite a bit.
October 31, 2013
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My husband bought me a few creams to prepare for the cold weather which has already begun. One is the excellent Aveeno "Positively Nourishing™ and Comforting Whipped Souffle." The other is Lubriderm's amazing "Daily Moisture with Shea and Enriching Cocoa Butter." I have one problem with this, though--Lubriderm says it is an "indulging fragrance," but I find it absolutely and completely addictive! It's like walking into a warm kitchen on a frigid day where butter and nut cookies are being baked. Like Aveeno, it is absolutely without an oily residue and seeps into skin quickly, despite the fact that it is replete with shea and cocoa butters, glycerin, panthenol, and more. Like Aveeno, it boasts moisturized skin for twenty-four hours. I've put it to the test. After I shower, I slather it over dry limbs, heels, and knees. Before I'm about to go to bed, I find that I actually don't have to apply more, but I do anyway. Part of the reason is for the smell. Another part is for the immediate comfort it gives. And part of it is plain vanity--I don't want my newfound silky skin to return to skin with flakes and dry patches. Soft skin is a pleasure I don't want to give up once I've found it. It retails for about $8.50, a small amount to pay for such results.
October 31, 2013
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I learned years ago from a plastic surgeon that cocoa and shea butters are among the most potent, efficacious ingredients to heal skin hurt in any way--whether it be from surgery or the cumulative effects of the wind and cold. I found that to be true when trying an endless array of brands over the years. Aveeno's "Positively Nourishing™ Comforting Whipped Soufflé" is a luxurious, lightweight but super-hydrating potion to put an end to dry skin (part of Aveeno's "Active Naturals" collection, it sells for a very reasonable $7.99). Despite the fact that it contains glycerin and fruit oil as well as the aforementioned butters, it is absolutely non-greasy. Skin takes it in quickly; you are enveloped in comfort, to be sure, with an immediate improvement in the feel and look of your skin. It has a luxurious scent, although not strong enough to be overpowering. Antioxidants nourish your skin in order to keep it repaired and baby-soft. Aveeno claims that it "moisturizes all day." It does! Yes, a company which keeps it promises! I apply after my morning shower over parched arms, elbows, knees, legs, and feet. In the evening, I not only feel velvety, but there is a tender glow on my limbs. This is one outstanding cream!
October 31, 2013
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Obviously, mineral shadow can take longer to apply than traditional shadow and there may be some fall-out on your face, clothing, or the items around you. But with practice and a great shadow primer, they offer the ultimate way to demonstrate your creativity with color. This lush, decadent trio--metalized sapphire, gorgeous glimmering jade, and deep purple (with some silver in as well) can create some of the most sophisticated, sultry looks possible. Just use the right brushes and you'll be flooded with compliments. The shadow also wears for a good amount of time, so apply, relax, and enjoy the results. Even though these are deep hues, a fluffy brush and a light hand make them wearable for everyday wear, and they are incredibly beautiful.
October 31, 2013
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I was a die-hard fan of Too Faced's "Shadow Insurance," and it still remains my favorite eyelid primer. But this, like UD's potion, keeps shadow in place all day and works exceptionally well. I was surprised at how very well it works. I put it to the ultimate test on vacation last summer--my shadow didn't budge through hot, humid weather, ocean air, waves, and very long days on the beach.
October 31, 2013
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I was anxious to open my trial tube of Kate Somerville's "ExfoliKate® Intensive Exfoliating Treatment." It reminded me in theory of a somewhat similar exfoliant/mini-mask Lancôme offered several years ago; that was one of the BEST products I have ever used. This is not quite as remarkable as Lancôme's old version, but it did beautify, cleanse, and make my skin glow. Pores seemed to disappear after use, and the refreshing feeling is beyond description! I am glad that Sephora offers it in three price ranges (from $22.00 to $175.00; who has $175 for an exfoliant, even a great one?). This is meant to deliver dramatic results, and my skin reacted very well to it. It is intended to eliminate blackheads and acne, reduce discoloration, and give your skin a salon-level polishing. I like the subtle aroma. I noted that the ingredients include salicylic acid and fruit enzymes which are the powerhouse meant to effectively clear pores. Honey, Vitamin E, and aloe vera soften and smooth skin. Rosewood and cinnamon extracts minimize the appearance of lines and furrows. The particles are gentle to your complexion, and I enjoyed the slight warming sensation after application. The green color took me aback at first, but I was glad that I left it on for two minutes (I was fortunate enough not to experience the intense burn other women did). This is an exceptional product, to be sure, and I will repurchase (in the $22.00 size!).
October 26, 2013
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Jimmy Choo has another fragrance winner with "Flash." Notes of pink pepper, tangerine, and strawberry make it exciting. Notes of exotic white flowers make it sultry, while a base of white powdery woods leaves a musky-type aroma. This is a fragrance to wear to the office and right out on the town. It's exciting and sophisticated.
October 25, 2013
