Makeup
- GigiSD » See my profile
- Points: 438580
- Reviews: 1103
Here are all my reviews:
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I'm at a point in my life where my skin is battling two issues. I still have cyclical acne, although it is very diminished compared to when I was in my early twenties and thirties. And now I'm all about taking care of my skin, exfoliating dead cells and encouraging the growth of new ones to prevent lines and creases. A salon peel can be very pricey and I love the line of Peter Thomas Roth Products--I've used them for a number of years and they are highly effective. Their FirmX™ peeling gel is an enjoyable and quick way to remove the layer of dead, dry cells on your skin easily. After using that, I decided to experiment with their "Laser-Free™ Retexturizer™ Exfoliating Scrub." I've preached before the need for exfoliation: The dead cells of the epidermis can cause your skin to be rough and patchy. Once removed, your skin is far more receptive to the benefits of any creams and serums you apply. Circulation is improved, and your complexion is visibly enhanced. Peter Thomas Roth's "laser" scrub is a laser-free treatment with the results of a salon treatment. It is free of Sulfates, Phthalates, Triclosan, and Synthetic Dyes and Fragrances. It is replete with a number of skin-loving ingredients: Dragon's Blood (a resin drawn from a tropical tree); Jojoba beads which scrub gently, without fear of tears to your skin; Papaya Enzyme, which helps to slowly decongest clogged pores and dissolve dead surface skin cells; Glycolic Acid, to even skin's tone and work away fine lines and wrinkles; Caffeine (constricts bloods vessels and diminishes redness and inflammation); Sweet Almond and Apricot Kernel Oils; Mango Seed Butter and Aloe Juice. You first massage onto damp skin to begin the exfoliation. A small amount begins decimating dead skin cells. You then leave it on for two to seven additional minutes, like a mask (it reminds me of an old scrub/mask by Lancôme which I absolutely loved). Enzymes and Glycolic Acid work on a deeper level to rid skin of the old epidermis and replace it with antioxidants and oils to fight free radicals and nourish. After rinsing thoroughly, you will find absolutely NEW, AMAZING skin--my skin hasn't been as smooth since I first left my mother's womb. There is a new clarity, luminosity, softness, and resilience which is difficult to put into words (although I've definitely tried). This sells for $38.00 at Sephora but is well worth every penny; a tube goes a very long way.
May 2, 2013
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Experience the sheer, spirited floral scent of the extraordinary "Pleasures" fragrance in a lightweight, silky lotion. It slips right into skin and the delicate aroma lasts a very long time. Ah, pleasure indeed!
May 1, 2013
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I started using Elizabeth Arden's "Red Door" when my precious mother gave it to me in high school. It is a sophisticated, classic fragrance. A little goes a long way, but once it melds with your own body's chemistry, it is seductive and the epitome of luxury. Top notes are Lily of the Valley, Freesia, and Wild Violets. Middle notes include Red Rose, Moroccan Orange Flower, Jasmine, and Ylang. Bottom notes are created by Oakmoss, Sandalwood, and Honey. My husband loves this on me--once it has "settled in."
May 1, 2013
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This powder has a fainter version of the bottled wonderful "White Linen" fragrance. I love it all year round, but especially in the summer. I enjoy layering fragrances, and this helps to keep me clean and crisp.
May 1, 2013
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I am fickle when it comes to cosmetics. I find it hard to stay with one line for skin care, color, body/hair care, or fragrance. Right now I am only using Ole Henriksen's skin care line, but two months ago I was completed addicted to Estèe Lauder's delightful "Perfectly Clean Splash Away Foaming Cleanser" (I'm sure I will return to it). This is the perfect cleanser for all skin types. I highly recommend removing all eye makeup with Lauder's, Lancôme's, or another company's eye makeup remover first (this should NOT be used around the delicate area). Then apply to moist skin and revel in the refreshing, deep-cleaning lather (lather is not lush, as the name suggests, but if you use enough product you can create as many bubbles as you want). After continual use, I found that my skin was not only perfect cleansed, but it was more smooth. Pores seem smaller when I use this. There is a luminosity which I love! My sister has very sensitive skin which seems to react to most products in a negative way, but she can use this with absolutely no problems. Once you splash away the cleanser, be sure to use a toner to restore your skin's natural pH balance. If you find it expensive, buy it when Lauder offers an irresistible gift with purchase.
May 1, 2013
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I've already established that I am addicted to eyeshadow palettes. There are few companies whose palettes I haven't used; Estèe Lauder remains among the leaders in quality of classic cosmetics, skin/body care, and fragrances. I have purchased several of Lauder's "Pure Color" palettes and have a "lukewarm" love affair with them. The color range is absolutely fabulous--everything from neutral, natural, barely-there shades like "Ivory Slipper," "Sandbar Beige," and "Riviera Rose" to show-stoppers like "Lavish Mink," "Noctural Blue," and "Emerald Star." In theory, they should be sheer perfection. They are silky and long-lasting. They are from Lauder. They are available in both matter and very wearable shimmer formulas. But I have a problem with different pigmentation with various hues. Some colors are so buttery that they practically apply themselves and blend seamlessly. With others, I find myself using my best eye shadow brushes and still not obtaining the amount of pigment I want. This is a shame, because I should be able to create a plethora of various looks blending the colors in my palettes. However, I too often find that I use Lauder shadows in combination with other brands to get a smoky eye or even a good neutral eye look. They have such potential; I just can't understand why Estèe Lauder doesn't ensure that every shadow is equally pigmented, especially when they are named "Pure Color."
May 1, 2013
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This tender, non-foaming cleanser penetrates to remove grime and all traces of makeup. It has a lovely, subtle scent (a mix of citrus, sweet fruits, flowers, and sandalwood). It is especially great for dry skin or during the winter. How to justify the price? Simply purchase when Estee Lauder offers one of their great gifts with purchase!
May 1, 2013
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I was first drawn to Lush's "Baby Face" by the sweet, irresistible image on the soap. And then I went into a pleasant type of shock! This is not typical soap of any kind. I didn't expect it to contain so much oil. It took me several tries to learn to work with this product. Finally, I just dampened my entire face and ran the bar over all of my complexion, including eyes (I assumed it would work there because of the lipid content). Every last trace of dirt, oil, and makeup (even heavy and/or waterproof eye makeup) dissipates with this miraculous bar. Afterward, my skin is divinely soft, smooth, and clean. My sister has very sensitive skin. I gave her a bar. She was hesitant to use it at first but loves it as well. What a unique, fun way to cleanse!
May 1, 2013
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I first came to love mists to set my makeup when I used Skindinävia's "Makeup Finishing Spray." The cost can be a bit prohibitive, so I tried ELF's "Makeup Mist and Set" ($3.00!). Skindivanävia's version has a scent much like hair spray. ELF's is not very pleasant, but it disappears quickly. ELF's mist contains aloe, cucumber, green tea, and vitamins A, C, and E. It does help my makeup stay put even in high heat and humidity. I love the refreshing, cooling feeling it gives and spritz a few times during the day, even though I don't need to do so. This alcohol-free product does keep me colorful even when I'm dead on my feet.
May 1, 2013
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Donna Karan "Cashmere Mist" is aptly named. It is so soft and sensual that it reminds me of a cozy sweater. For some reason, I gravitate toward it in the winter. The musk, patchouli, suede, and cedarwood notes give it a warmth I love. But it is also light, perfect for wear all year long, with lily of the valley, bergamot, ylang, jasmine maroc, sandalwood, orris, amber, and vanilla notes as well. It's simply lush and very seductive! This is a classic fragrance.
May 1, 2013
