Product Review: Jurlique Purely Bright Mist Spray

Hi Everyone!

I'm back again with a product review on the Jurlique Purely Bright with VitaBrightKX Mist Spray.  Sorry the picture is a little blurry.  I took it with my phone and it looked better on the phone.

Anyways, Jurlique is a brand I was introduced to by my aesthetician at Ann Karen Spa.  I was curious as that was the first time I had ever used it and I've heard good things about Jurlique "all natural" philosophy.

This was a full sized glass bottle of the Purely Bright Mist Spray.  There was quite a lot in it.  Probably 2 months worth of product for morning and night use.  I have to admit that I'm not a fan of the spray nozzle as the mist isn't as fine as as I would like.

Vitamin C is supposed to be great for brightening skin.  I'll admit that I probably didn't read the product claims too carefully because there is only one claim and it's not a direct claim about making your skin brighter:

Hydrate and soften skin for a radiant glow.

In terms of hydration and softening, this mist does what it says.  It reminds me of the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence that hydrated and softened my skin, sometimes to the point where I wouldn't feel the need to follow up with a moisturizer.

In terms of radiant glow...  Okay, my skin looked radiant after spraying this mist and patting it into my skin.  But that radiancy lasted only for a while.  By the mid morning or mid evening, about 1-2 hours after application, my skin looked normal again, and by normal I mean a little dull looking.

I wanted to love this product to the point where I could confidently say that I will repurchase this, but I just don't know if I love it enough for a repeat $34.00 purchase.  I probably won't repurchase this, but only because I don't love it enough to spend the money on it.

Have you tried Jurlique before?  Tell me what you think of their products!

Thanks for stopping by!

Product Review: Wen Cleansing Conditioner

Hi Everyone!

So, this is the post I've been meaning to write for a number of weeks already.  I only have a few points to clarify and some tips or suggestions for how to use this product.

For my original thoughts and pictures, please see my first impressions post here.

Product claims:

This 5-in-1 takes the place of your shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, and leave-in-conditioner.

Cleanses hair thoroughly without lathering and harsh ingredients

Hair is left with sheen, moisture, manageability, and better color retention.


My thoughts:

I'm a regular shampoo and conditioner girl.  I don't go for multiple steps in hair care so Wen products are at best a glorified conditioner.  However, I did try to use it as directed, as a cleansing conditioner.  It works like it says it will work.  The trick is, you have to rinse your hair thoroughly.  I found that it helped to rinse my hair from front to back, back to front, and one more time in order to get all the product out and avoid the greasy hair look.

Linh from Blushology questioned if this product can clean you hair like shampoo.  It doesn't clean your hair in  exactly the same way, but it does clean.  You have to massage this into your scalp and then rinse everything out.  I would highly recommend using the Sweet Almond Mint conditioner rather than the Fig conditioner if you're going to use it the way Chaz Dean recommends.  The product does go very quickly if you use it this way.  My tip would be to use this product as a regular conditioner.  You can wash your hair with shampoo like normal and use 2-3 pumps of this product as a conditioner and still get the same results as when you use this product as a cleansing conditioner.

I've been raving about this in the last few posts that my hair has gone from straw and wires to pre-teen-like hair.  Seriously.  Everything that Chaz Dean said this product would do for your hair came true.  This stuff works better than the Pantene Pro V conditioner and the Salma Hayek Nuance Leave-in-Treatment stuff in my opinion.  It's almost as if I never had my hair dyed at all!  The only thing I'm not sure about is the color retention.  I wasn't paying attention given my issues with massive tangles.


Things to consider before buying this product:

1.  This is super expensive, in my book, at $34 or $32 a bottle.  If you have a product that works to make your hair shiny, soft, and manageable, I'd stick with it.  If you have never come across a product that works for your hair, definitely buy just one bottle from Sephora and don't get suckered into the 60-day automatic replenishment program until you know for sure this is something you want.

2.  You can get more mileage from this by using it as a regular conditioner.  The results will be the same, but you won't blow through your budget as fast.

3.  There is more to the Wen hair care system than just the cleansing conditioner.  My recommendation is that if they advertise the same thing, example "make hair softer, shinier, sleeker, detanglier, etc. etc." you probably will not need to buy it.  The cleansing conditioner does it all.

4.  That light and airy feeling I described in my original post lasted for a while.  But the volume went away when my hair got longer.  Ladies with long hair, I wouldn't have super high expectations of gaining more volume with this product.  Ladies with short hair, you might see more volume for a while.  But stay realistic at all times.  What you see in the infomercials is a result of a professional stylist blow drying models' hair.


Final Verdict:

I love this stuff!  I'll keep buying it because it's really transformed my hair!  Let me know what you think if you've given Wen a try.

Wen Cleansing Conditioner (First Impressions)

Hi Everyone!

I'm here with an update to the Wen Cleansing Conditioner.  I bought this mid-January to help deal with the hair that got damaged when I dyed it last year.  I was very hesitant to invest in a $32.00 bottle of cleansing conditioner, but it's supposed to take the place of shampoo and conditioner.  Additionally, some reviews I read on Makeup Alley said the product made hair fall out and left a greasy residue in your hair.  I will address both of these concerns in my post.  For now, some pictures.

 

So, I'm going to picture out my hair care routine with the Wen Cleansing Conditioner.  

 

I use only 6 pumps of the product.  I wouldn't use the recommended 10-15 pumps because I don't think I need it and I don't want such an expensive product to run out so quickly.

I focus the majority of this product at my roots and scalp.  I massage it all over my scalp for 3 minutes and pull the product through the rest of my hair.

Some people said this product weighed their hair down and left greasy residues.  Yes, it happened to me after the first day.  But I've learned the trick is to rinse out the conditioner completely.  I flip my head upside down and rinse from my nape to my forehead, then I flip my hair right side up and rinse from my forehead to my nape.  Then I split my hair like I'm doing a half up and half down pony tail and focus a lot of rinsing at the crown of my head.  

Rinsing this way, my hair does not feel sleek or soft like when I use regular conditioner.  In fact, it still feels tangled up.

 

This is what my hair looks like after being towel dried.  It clearly looks like a tangle mess.  But looks are a little bit deceiving.  I've noticed that the tangles I work through when using Wen are less intense and less painful than the tangles I had after using regular shampoo, conditioner, and the Nuance leave-in treatment.

My recommendation is to work through the tangles with a wide-tooth comb before blow drying.

As far as hair loss goes, I haven't noticed any difference in the number of strands I lose in the shower.  It looks like I've lost the same amount as always.  

 

This is what my hair looks like after blow drying.  I just used my fingers to blow dry before brushing my hair into place.  

So, what are the results?

My hair is sooooo soft and doesn't get as many tangles as it did before.  I'd also say the feeling I get at my scalp is a light and airy feeling.  My hair feels like it has better movement and more volume at the top.  The one time I didn't completely rinse out the cleansing conditioner, the hair at my crown looked like it was greasy but it still had a light and airy feeling.  

As far as color retention goes, I don't think this conditioner retains color any better than a shampoo/conditioner set made for color treated hair.

I feel that this product is doing a well enough job at keeping my hair clean.  My hair still gets greasy after 24 hours, so this product doesn't have magical cleansing properties.  :-P

I'll follow up in a few more weeks.  If my opinions don't change, consider this the official Product Review.  

Has anyone else used Wen and what do you think of it?

Thanks for stopping by and thanks to Mr. P for being on call to take these photos of my head.  

 

Product Review: T & J Pure & Natural Acne Control Cream

 

Hi Everyone,

This is a long awaited T&J Pure & Natural Acne Control Cream product review.  I bought this on the recommendation of my aesthetician back in August for a whopping $40+!  Luckily, I don't need to use a lot of it so I still have a good amount left.  I'm going to begin the product review right now.

Claims to:
1.  Help control and stabilize the sensitivity, puffiness of the epidermis.
2.  Improve the appearance of acne scars.


Help control and stabilize the sensitivity, puffiness of the epidermis
Yes to all.  I personally think this works maybe a day or two slower than benzoyl peroxide to calm down an inflamed bump and to reduce the swelling.  So, if you're looking for speed this product won't be the fastest.  However, I would choose this over BP because this does not dry out the skin.  I don't know about the rest of the population but whenever I use BP, it makes my skin so dry and flaky with microscopic cracks in my skin that makes the entire area sting like tiny papercuts.

Improve the appearance of acne scars
Ehhh... I think it's 50-50.  If I catch a bump early enough, this cream can make the whole thing go away as if it was never there.  However, if the pimple had a day to grow before I apply any of this cream, it take 4-5 days to go away and I do get left with a faded spot.  I'm happy enough that it never went through the angry red spot look but still... it's not going to make everything magically disappear.


Other notes:

• It smells like medicine.
• It's best used as the instructions say - with a cotton tip, not your fingers
• It temporarily (1-2 days) whitens the skin wherever it is applied.  I have a natural flush in my cheeks and if I applied this on my cheeks in a cross-shaped pattern, my cheeks would have a cross-shaped white area on it even after being washed off, something to keep in mind for a day when I want to whiten my skin.  ;-P
• It is undetectable if you want to apply a thin layer under your makeup routine, which is pretty good to treat and cover at the same time.

Would I repurchase this?  

Yes!  I really really really appreciate it not drying out my skin, not creating flakes, and not making my skin so tight and dry that any movement would microscopically crack my skin.  That whitening secret is good to have on hand for that super duper special occasion.

Well, thanks for waiting for this product review, and thanks for reading this far!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday, Everyone!  Don't go too crazy in Black Friday lines!  :-)

Product Review: TonyMoly Eggpore Blackhead Out Gel

 

back of the box

side of the box

the product!

June 21, 2012

I've started using this TonyMoly Eggpore Blackhead Out Gel in the last 2 weeks.  I figure I should use it to keep my blackheads from forming so quickly and having to go through my pore strips equally as quickly.

It smells like an orange to me.  :)

So far, I don't notice any improvements or reductions in blackheads.  I've been using this every other day or every 2 days, but never in consecutive days, and never going longer than 3 days without using it.

Product review forthcoming!

**************************************************************

UPDATE & PRODUCT REVIEW

Here is my review on the TonyMoly Eggpore Blackhead Out Gel.

Product claims to clear out blackheads by dissolving them.

There are many reviews out there that claim this product works as it should, more reviews that claim this product works half as well as it should, and a few more reviews that claim the product doesn't work at all.  This might depend on how deeply your blackheads are rooted in your pores.

My personal opinion:

I don't think this product works at all if you follow the instructions to massage it with your fingers.  First of all, the claim that this product will turn milky white as a result of dissolving the sebum in your pores is bogus.  The product turns milky white because it comes in contact with water.  I keep this in the shower with me and have to dip my fingers into the product.  My little stash of Blackhead Out Gel has developed this milky whiteness wherever excess water has dripped off my finger tips.  This is exactly the same concept with the Shu Uemura cleansing oils.

Results after using my fingers to massage the gel into my skin are less than impressive.  Yes, when you're massaging the oily gel into your skin, your skin feels soft and smooth because there's no friction!  But when you rinse and get out of the shower and look at what's left, 99.9999999% of the blackheads are still there.  And, no, I don't see that the blackhead size has changed.

I expected this product to work like the Biore pore strips and really clean out my pores.  ~Disappointed~

However!

I have found a way to yield better results.  I use the Blackhead Out Gel in conjunction with the silicone face scrubber.

Using both together, you will see some reduction in blackheads.  The reduction in blackheads is maybe about 25-35% less than what you started with.  Of course, we could always attribute the reduction to the silicone face scrubber instead of the gel, right? 

Final Verdict:

I wouldn't get this again.  Don't get too caught up in the packaging even though it's as cute as a button.  If you really wanted effective removal of nearly 100% of your blackheads, stick with any of the pore strips that are out there.  They are much more effective than the TonyMoly Eggpore Blackhead Out Gel.  I hate to give a bad review of any cute product, but there it is. 

I hope this product review was helpful!  Thanks for stopping by!

~Jya!

Product Review: SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion

 

Hi All!  I'm back with another product review!  I feel like I haven't done a product review in a long time, so I am excited to do this one.  

Today's product review is on the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion, which I got from one of the duty free boutiques at the Taipei Int'l Airport.  I will be the first to admit that I always always always want SK-II to be in my skincare regimen.  However, there is always a difference between "want" and reality.  

Anyways, here's a caption from the SK-II website that talks about product claims and details.  I have linked the picture to the website, so if you feel like you want to buy it, click on the picture.

As always, my product reviews evaluate the product based on product claims (or the claims of the company's marketing department), and are 100% my opinion.  

Note:  The instructions say to use this product with a cotton pad.  I do follow the instructions for this product even though I think it is a waste of product.  It's $60.00!!!!

Removes residual impurities and dead skin cells

I think there are better products out there that can remove a whole lot more.  In a side-by-side test with witch hazel extract, the cotton pad soaked with witch hazel picks up a lot more of the residual makeup than the cotton pad soaked with SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion.  That leads me to doubt whether or not the SK-II is as effective as it claims.

Contains a blend of AHAs and BHAs, as well as Pitera

I lean towards believing this claim.  I don't have any problems with breakouts and my skin feels nicely moisturized and plumped after using this product.

Gently exfoliates

On a chemical level, I know AHAs and BHAs help with exfoliating inside your pores.  Surface exfoliation is mostly attributed to the cotton pad.  I may sound cynical or sarcastic here but don't misunderstand me:  My skin feels smoooooth after using this product.

Improves the texture and tone of the skin

Yes, to texture for the reasons stated so far.  As for the tone, maybe that's an individual struggle because my face still looks blotchy color-wise.  I have bright parts of my face and my never-ending struggle with age spots.  Maybe the claims mean "tone" as in when we say someone is "toned"?  If so, then I'd have to say that the level of hydration I get with this product plumps up my skin so that it feels younger and a little bit firmer.

Refreshed feeling

Yes!  My skin feels like it took a deep breath of fresh air after wiping down my face with the Clear Lotion.

Healthy glow

YES!!!  My skin looks brighter and more glowy after using this!

Would I recommend this to others?  Yes, I would.  I think it's worth to try out once in your life-time.  

Would I repurchase this product?  Probably not.  I think the psychological constant of knowing that my witch hazel extract can strip off more residual makeup than the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion is the one and only factor for why I wouldn't repurchase this again, even though it works so well in all other areas.  Also... the price...  It's too hard to see $60 leave my hands so quickly.  

Below is some detail on the ingredients used in this product:

Thanks for reading!  If you have a different experience with this product, I'd like to know about it!  ^_^

Product Review: Chanel Precision UV Essentiel Multi-protection Daily Care SPF 50/PA+++

I got this from China Airlines' Sky Boutique back in September 2011.  I was going to get only the Dior sunblock at the time, but then I thought, "What the heck, why not?" and got the Chanel sunblock too.  I'm glad I did.  One thing I really appreciate about this product is that it's so milky and liquidy.  I can pat this into my skin like toner, which really saves my skin from extra tugging.  

This picture is linked to Chanel's website

The thing about doing Product Reviews on sunblock and sun screen is that you can't really tell the effectiveness of it until decades down the line.  But I will do my best!!

So, what are the claims?

Provides invisible daily protection
It's invisible for the most part.  I'd have to say that I can tell I have sunblock on my face at certain angles in certain bright lights.  As far as the daily protection goes, it's hard to tell because you can't really see the benefits of sunblock until you're a lot older and have visibly younger-looking skin as compared to your peers.

Oil-free, lightweight formula safeguards skin against environmental pollutants
What I really like about this formula is that it feels hydrating even as it dries to a powdery and smooth finish.  It takes about 2 minutes to fully absorb.  It's great under makeup too!  It feels like it protects my skin against environmental pollutants but again, it's hard to say definitively.  It's just a preventative measure.    

Help diminish and prevent the appearance of dark spots and signs of premature aging
I don't think that it diminishes or prevents dark spots.  Maybe it looks that way because of the slightly white cast I get on my skin from using this, but at the end of the day, my dark spots look just the same as before.  However, in terms of premature aging, specifically the appearance of new fine lines and wrinkles, I think that it may be working because I haven't noticed an increase in the number or depth of the fine lines I have.  *knock on wood!!!* 

Repurchase?
Yes.  I like this Chanel sunblocks milky texture and how it's so smooth on my skin after it absorbs.  ^_^

Product Review: Mizuno Tenshi Flower Moisture Gel

 

I bought this Mizuno Tenshi Flower Moisture Gel from Sasa last August but only got around to using it now.

 

 

Likes

Gel-based and very light

Moisturizes without feeling greasy, oily, or generally overbearing.

Absorbs completely into my skin.

         Thus, wonderful under my Chanel sun block and makeup.

Dislikes

I don't think this is very moisturizing around the eyes.

         I guess you can't win them all.

So, according to Sasa, here is the product info:

Let the product review begin!!

Being a toner, milk lotion, and essence
It feels light enough to be all three of them.  

Claims to be a whitening essence
I always take this with a grain of salt.  To date, I've only come across 2 products that visibly whitens / brightens.  One of them is the Paul & Joe Whitening Serum, and the other is the TonyMoly Tomatox Magic White Massage Pack.  I haven't noticed any difference to the color of my skin while using the Mizuno Tenshi Flower Moisture Gel.  My age and acne spots are still there and the same dark/light -ness.  But I can't say for sure that this product isn't doing something in this department.  I'm not willing to say it does or it doesn't whiten...it's just too hard and miniscule to really tell.

Can be used as a makeup base

It absorbs so completely and dries matte.  I've used it under makeup and haven't had any issues with it.

Relieves dry, dull and rough skin  

This statement is true if your skin was dry, dull, and rough before you applied this Flower Moisture Gel.  However, you will still need an exfoliation regimen.  This product will not cure everything.

Restores skin's luminosity and moisture
Only as far as initial application goes.  I haven't noticed my skin becoming more luminous from using this alone.  I've acquired the luminous effect only after exfoliation.  As far as moisture goes, for my face, this is moisturizing enough for the warmer months.  However, no matter what time of year it is, I don't think it will be moisturizing enough around the eyes.  You will need a heaver product for the eye area.

Suitable for all skin types, and dry and delicate skin
I honestly can't see how this will be moisturizing enough for dry and delicate skin.  For my oily skin, this is perfect.  But I think for people with naturally drier skin, I think they will want something heavier.

What are my thoughts?
I think if you wanted to use this as a summer-time light moisturizer, by all means go ahead!  But I don't think you should expect too much out of it.  Thank goodness I got this 40% off!  If I repurchase this at all, the purpose would only be to moisturize in the summer.  Other than that, I probably won't repurchase.

If you've used this before, what are your thoughts?

Product Review: Merle Norman Day Creme with HC-12

Hi All,

Today I'm going to do a product review on the Merle Norman Day Creme with HC-12 that I've been using in my current skincare routine.  My Kindred Spirit gave me this product for a Christmas present back in 2010 but I finally got around to using it in late 2011. 

For more information about the company, brand, history, and products, please click here. 

Product Claims and Description:

For Normal to Dry skin types.
Natural botanical complex of 12 hydrators and skin conditioners including Coneflower, Shea Butter and Evening Primrose Oil keeps skin beautifully hydrated throughout the day. Worn easily under makeup, it helps restore skin’s natural moisture balance while helping maintain elasticity.

Keeping Skin Hydrated Throughout the Day
YES!  In the winter I feel as if this product does a magnificent job of keeping my skin hydrated even while being exposed to drier, colder air, and heaters.  It goes on a little thick and heavy, but it absorbs completely into my skin and dries smooth.  I wouldn't wear this in the summer because I think it'll be too heavy for my skin.

Worn Easily Under Makeup
Yes.  In the winter, this product eliminates any dry patches I might have so my makeup usually goes on smooth.  In the summer I might expect to see some makeup slipping and sliding around my nose and chin.


Restores Skin's Natural Moisture Balance
I'm not sure how to measure that but I will tell you that my skin hasn't felt too dry nor too oily all winter long.  

Maintaining Elasticity
YES!  Since using this product from late autumn to present, I've felt as though my skin has gotten a little bit more firm than before.  Well, maybe I'd use the word "supple."  My cheeks feel like they bounce back after I tap them.  Don't be misled though, I'm not talking about dramatic changes here so don't think a 30-year-old's skin is going to feel like a baby's bottom.  I'm just talking about my skin feeling like it did at 26...maybe 24 pushing 25.

Other Notes
I have to say that this product doesn't have the most pleasing smell to me.  It kind of smells medicinal and old, like something from 2 or 3 generations ago.  However, the scent disappears after the product absorbs into your skin so it's not a big deal.  Anyways, for how well it works, I think it's worth the smell.  ^_^

Would I purchase this product on my own?
I definitely would purchase my own for winter-time use and only once I finish going through all the other moisturizers I've amassed.  Those two things are really the only things that are stopping me.

I hope you found this review helpful.  If you have any questions, please leave me a comment.  Thanks for reading and have a great day!

Product Review: Mentholatum Acnes White

Mentholatum Acnes White: Medicated Clear & Whitening Wash

 I'm back with another product review on a brand and product that I've only found in Asia.  Being so, I should warn you that I cannot read Chinese or Japanese, so I'm a little out of luck in telling you what the product claims are.  The only thing I can tell you is that this tube of face cleanser deals with acne and whitening.

I discovered Mentholatum's Acnes product line a couple years ago (2009 or 2010) and have been hooked since!  Their acne washes are really gentle yet thorough.  So, let me get on with my thoughts on this.

For the record, my skin does react to a lot of different products in ways that it never reacted when I was younger.  I battle with adult acne on a seasonal basis.  I do want to keep my skin lighter so those pesky age spots won't show up so badly!  Okay, and now, the review!

Texture

Thick like toothpaste.  Smells a little lemony.  Goes on like paste, but foams up with water and the longer you massage it into your skin.

Immediate Aftereffects

Skin is squeeeeeaaaaky clean but does not feel overly dry.  Skin looks a tad brighter and a smidgen whiter, but comes back to normal after a few minutes.

Long-term Aftereffects

Less new acne.  Shrinking and calming of current acne.  Some hyperpigmentation spots seem to be less noticeable. 


Okay, I think this is it for my product review.  I've been using it since the beginning of January when I was in Taiwan.  I have 2 more tubes as backup.  Considering that I did not want to spend any more money on skincare, and given how much I love Johnson's Head-to-Toe Baby Wash, you can tell that I really really like this cleanser.  LOL.

Would I recommend it?  HECK, YEAH!!!!

When I go back to Taiwan, I will make it a point of restocking enough of these to last me a year or more!

Product Review: Lancome Blanc Expert Melanolyser Whiteness Activating Spot Eraser

Inspired by the autophagy process, the first Lancome's revolutionary serum to boost skin's inner whitening capacities.

Tested on Asian skin and under dermatological control.  Suitable for sensitive skin.

I bought this from the China Airlines' Sky Boutique back in September of 2011 and finished it all up just this morning.  Let me say that the claims of this product are to help reduce age/sun spots by inhibiting the glands/cellular structures that produce melanin.  Over time it's supposed to help even out your skin tone and promote whitening.

I have to admit that I had high hopes for this lotion but ended up disappointed in the results.

I'd post up a picture of myself right now, but I'm kinda embarrassed by my acne breakout.  Suffice it to say, after the whole tube, I haven't noticed any change at all, and this is using the Blanc Expert Melanolyser night and day!

In the first few weeks of using it, I didn't see any changes to my sun/age spots.  But I did notice that the skin around the center of my face seemed more radiant.  While my initial pleasure at the radiance has carried me through the entire tube, I do have to admit that this product failed - on my skin, at least - to reduce the sun/age spots, which was the entire purpose of the purchase!

I won't be repurchasing this!  I'm very disappointed with the results for the bucks that I spent.




Part of my New Year's Resolution is to use up my skincare products that I currently have.  When I think about it, I must have more than $600 in lotions, creams, serums, and gels in my cabinet.  I've noticed that out of my family and even with Mr. P, I use more skincare products but I have worse skin.  My brother, dad, and Mr. P don't use anything and their skin condition is great.  So, there has got to be a reason behind that.  I think I'm going to try to make the commitment toward organic DIY skincare and see how that works.  When I did it before in Dallas, my skin didn't seem as bad as it is now.  Hopefully something good will come of it!

Product Review: Envie de Neuf Hyaluronic Acid Whitening Hydromask

Envie de Neuf mask in packet

Ingredients and instructions

The claims.

Boo!

Happy Thanksgiving everybody!
.
Here is a product review of the EDN hyaluronic acid whitening hydromask. This is one of the prizes I'm giving away in my blog giveaway (ends Dec. 10th, 2011). I was going to review this a while ago but forgot!
.
Claims:
1. Delivers intensive hydration to skin / maximize cellular moisture levels
.
2. Inhibits formation of melanin
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3. Renews skin's radiance and translucency.
.
.
Claim # 1
Oh, yes! This mask really helps out with hydration! I've been using it for quite a while (don't worry! I have more for the giveaway!) and every time it feels like my skin got rejuvenated or dunked in hydration. The most recent example was this week in Chicago. I used it at night and only put one other moisturizer on top and went to sleep. When I woke up my skin was not super oily but was hydrated to the point my fine lines were plumped out!
.
Claim # 2
Not completely sure if my age spots are fading but it seems this mask is like a speed bump in the darkening and enlarging of current age spots. I haven't noticed any new ones popping up.
.
Claim # 3
Oh, yes! If only every product does what this does, the skincare industry would be total different! Every single time I use this it's like my skin got 10 years younger! Basically, skin is firmer, brighter and whiter.
.
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One other thing I love about this is that its very cooling. Even in a heated room, it feels cool on the skin and tightens up my pores.
.
Verdict
YES! This is a must have for anyone who is concerned with anti-aging and whitening!
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Thanks for reading and have a happy and safe holiday!

Product Review: Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief

 

The first time that I tried this product was back in 2002!  Can you believe it's been that long?  This is one of those products I keep coming back to time and time again just because it satisfies nearly all my skincare needs.  I'd say this is one of my VIPs (very important products).  Hahaha!

Hydration for a full 24 hours

I have a day and night routine so I can't put this claim to the test all that much.  This gel moisturizer is one of the best moisture delivery systems I've used to date that doesn't leave my face feeling greasy or sticky afterwards.

Fine lines, flakiness and tightness are washed away

Yes, yes, and yes!  This product is simply amazing for the summer because it provides the right type of hydration for my skin that does plump up and minimize my fine lines.  The gel moisturizes but also provides some sort of barrier between my skin and the outside air.  The best part is that it takes 2 minutes to absorb into my skin, leaving it smooth and soft to the touch.  In the winter, however, my skin demands a little more than gel can provide.

Supple, firm, vibrant well-being

Huh?  Well, I guess my skin can feel supple after applying the Moisture Surge gel.  I have a feeling that this particular claim is a bunch of words thrown together that sound nice.  This gel isn't an anti-aging or firming product, so this claim here is based on your current skin condition.  

Even through shifts in humidity

Oh, YES!  It works in dry California in the summer, and it worked in humid Taiwan and Thailand, too.  It kept my face feeling as fresh as it could until my excited sebaceous glands took over.  

Other

I'm not sure how anyone could "tap" this product over makeup during the mid-day.  Personally, I'm confused because my makeup at mid-day is slipping around from my oils.  So, to tap this on during the day....?  Wouldn't my makeup just smear all over?

I use this when I have breakouts because it feels so light on my skin and doesn't aggravate or add any new pimples to the mix.

Verdict

Seeing as how this is my 9th year with this product, do I need to say it?  LOL!  Okay, yes, I would definitely repurchase this and I'd definitely recommend this product to people.

Product Review: Olay Complete All Day UV Moisturizer (Sensitive Skin)

click on the picture to go to Olay's website

I bought Olay's Complete All Day UV Moisturizer for sensitive skin at around this time last year to deal with my bout of eczema* caused by some allergic reaction to something in a Neutrogena SPFer. 

*I'm only guessing it's eczema - never went to the dermatologist to have it confirmed.

Product information:

Complete All Day UV Moisturizer - Sensitive Skin has a light, non-greasy and gentle formula that provides moisture while helping to protect your sensitive skin from daily incidental sun exposure.

Add it to your skin care routine to:

~ Moisturizer with lasting hydration

~ Help protect skin with broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15 sunscreen

~ Maintain healthy-looking skin with a gentle formula

~ Includes zinc oxide, vitamin E and aloe

100% Oil-, Fragrance- and PABA-Free. Dermatologically Tested. Non-Comedogenic (Won’t Clog Pores)

Well, now that we have the product information out of the way let's the product review underway!  ;-)

Light, non-greasy and gentle formula
This product completely absorbed into my skin a couple minutes after application.  It felt great that it was not greasy, didn't leave a residue, and didn't further irritate my skin.  The lightness of the formula was great for my oily skin (esp. in summer).  My eczema-ish thing was able to heal while I used this product.

Moisturize with lasting hydration
This moisturizer did provide light hydration for my skin, but I also felt that I could have used more around my eyes where they were really dry, rough, and patchy.  However, I didn't at the time because I didn't want to aggravate the eczema.  I think this is good for oily skinned people because it provides good hydration to the skin and accommodates the oils that kick in later.

Protect skin with broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15 sunscreen
Skeptical.  It doesn't seem like SPF 15 is enough to really protect one's skin.  It may protect one's skin for a 10 minute commute to and from work, but I don't think this product provides ample protection for a 20 minute walk out in the sun.


Maintains healthy looking skin with gentle formula
Considering that my skin was dry, rough, and patchy prior to using this product and now it's normal again (yes, also oily again), I'd have to say that this product did nurse my skin back to health.

Non-comedogenic
True, that.  I never had an outbreak as a result of using this product.  The only outbreaks I had at the time of using this was during Moon Time and when I ate too much junk food.

Other thoughts and observations
All in all, this is a pretty decent moisturizer for those with sensitive skin and/or oily skin.  It doesn't claim to be an anti-aging product so don't expect it to erase your wrinkles, fine lines, or dark spots.  It's a solid and good moisturizer that does what it says it'll do.  Also, this is soooo cheap.  You get a lot of product for the tiny lil' bit of money you pay.

So, would I buy this again?
I wouldn't rule it out.  Now that my skin is normal again, I want to branch out and try other moisturizers with anti-aging or whitening properties.  HOWEVER, if I ever have any problems with my skin in the future, this is going to my go-to product to nurse my skin back to health.

Thanks for reading!

PS - Mr. P took me to go watch the very last Harry Potter at the IMAX.  It was soooo good and I loved it!  I will miss looking forward to new Harry Potter movies.

Product Review: DiorSnow White Reveal UV Shield

Silly me.  I threw away the box many years ago. Yes, that's right.  YEARS is exactly how long I've held on to this gem. I bought it on China Airlines in 2009.

Anyways, since I threw away the box I can't do my product review by claims like usual.  So I'm going to go out on a limb and assume what the claims would be based on the product's packaging.

CLAIMS:
Brightens skin with regular use
Protects skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays
Improves skin tone and texture over time *

* I included that because I believe that's what every beauty product tries to achieve.

BRIGHTENS SKIN
I notice that my skin does look brighter when I apply it. I don't think it works to change my skin on the molecular level, meaning that my skin looks brighter only when I have it on.

PROTECTS SKIN
I believe this does offer some good protection. My age spots aren't any darker or bigger than what they have been for the last couple years.  However I just noticed a new one in recently days.  I think it might have started developing a couple years back though...  :-(

IMPROVES SKIN TONE AND TEXTURE
When my skin looks brighter I feel as if my skin tone is more even.  One of the things I really like about this gem is that it makes my pores look a little smaller.  Sometimes I notice a slight glow to my face, like a just-had-a-great-facial glow, when I apply this after I've done some exfoliating with aspirin powder.

WOULD I BUY THIS AGAIN?
Heck yeah!  I would totally get it again the next time I fly on China Airlines.  It's worth the $52 I paid for!

Product Review: SK-II WS Derm-Renewal Essence

 

I'm running into formatting issues when sending pictures directly from my phone as opposed to when I upload it to my computer then creating the blog.  Oh, well.  As they say, the show must go on!

The claims regarding the SK-II Whitening Source (WS) Derm-Renewal Essence are as follows:

SK-II WS Derm-Renewal Essence gently removes the dead skin cells on face, nourishes your skin with hydrating ingredients such as Pitera and stimulates the growth of healthy skin-cells.  SK-II WS Derm-Renewal Essence helps to improve the texture and moisture balance of your skin in the long-term.  Contains no fragrance.

I am not paid to do product reviews; everything you read here is based on my experiences with this product.  Please read my About Me page.

This product a mask.  Apply it on clean skin and leave on for 10-15 minutes.  Rinse off.

Contains no fragrance

It definitely doesn't contain fragrance of either the candy sweet, fruity sweet, or floral variety.  It smells like a concentrated form of SK-II Facial Treatment Essence.

Gently removes dead skin cells

I like to apply this in the shower after I have used my JnJ Head-to-Toe Baby Wash to cleanse off all my makeup.  Whenever I apply this, I can feel a slight tingling sensation on my skin, which is the product working to removing dead skin cells.  I can tell that my skin feels softer and smoother after rinsing this off.

Nourishes skin with hydrating ingredients such as Pitera

All SK-II products contain Pitera, the brand's legendary secret ingredient to softer, smoother, and hydrated skin, so I believe that there is a bit of Pitera in this product to maintain hydration in my skin.  However, I don't believe that you can rely on this solely to deliver Pitera and hydration to your skin.  You definitely need another moisturizer or serum to lock in the benefits of the mask.  The immediate benefits of the hydration is that my fine lines under my eyes and on my upper cheeks are immediately lessened.  They don't disappear, but they look less like developing wrinkles.

Stimulates the growth of healthy skin cells

Based on an age/sun spot assessment, this product doesn't seem to be working because my age spots don't look diminished.  However, the areas between my under-eye and nostrils seem more radiant and clear.  My usually visible pores seem a little tighter, though not completely diminished.

Improves texture and moisture balance in the long-term

I think that if used consistently, this product will go a long way to helping you maintain the elements of great skin.  However, I'm too impatient to try new things so I probably will not have a chance to see how long is "long-term."  Food for thought: if this mask is good for short-term improvements, think only of how well it will work over time. 

Final Verdict

Even though SK-II has a special place in my heart, I probably will not repurchase this mask.  I think that there are other masks (like my Envie de Neuf Platinum CellWhite masks) on the market that do the same thing as this mask, and will also help target my age/sun spots.

Product Review: Chanel WHITE ESSENTIEL Light Reflecting Whitening Compact Foundation SPF 25 / PA+++

I bought this on a China Airlines flight a couple years ago and have only just begun to use it.  It's one of the few luxury products I own so I've been using it sparingly to make it last.  But I've lately enjoyed its porcelain effect on my skin that I've started using this every day.  Plus, the SPF is a great thing as we move from Winter to Spring.

Here is the product blurb for the Chanel White Essentiel Light Reflecting Whitening Compact Foundation SPF 25/PA+++.

Specially designed for Asian skin, the new generation WHITE ESSENTIEL range features a formula that is more effective than ever:


Enriched with a whitening active ingredient (a Vitamin C derivative), WHITE ESSENTIEL compact foundation intensely brightens the complexion while leaving it perfectly even. It prevents and reduces the appearance of dark spots and smoothes out the skin texture. The presence of light-reflecting pigments helps capture and diffuse the light: face imperfections are concealed for a lastingly radiant complexion.


As soon as it is applied, the micronized airy texture of WHITE ESSENTIEL caresses the skin and leaves it exceptionally soft to the touch.


The result is immediate: the complexion is discreetly mattified. The presence of silica microbeads (absorbent action) prevents undesired shine on the face. The makeup result is semi-matte and radiant.


All day long, the skin is protected (SPF 25/PA+++).


Skin brightness and purity are protected from harmful sun rays and harsh external conditions.


Tip from the creators
Apply the foundation to entire face with a dry sponge for natural powdery makeup. This practical foundation can be refilled easily

Let the review begin! XD

Brightens complexion
While I wouldn't say that this product has brightened my skin on a molecular level, lightly dusting this powder over my tinted moisturizer has added a slight luminosity to my skin.  I'd call it a porcelain effect, where the skin looks a bit translucent and bright in a healthy way.

Prevents and reduces the appearance of dark spots
I haven't noticed any significant reduction in the appearance of my dark spots.  Since this is a powder foundation, it does offer some light coverage to obscure the pigmentation of the dark spots.  But at the end of the day, the dark spots are still there, looking the same.

Leaves skin exceptionally smoothe to the touch
Yes, it does!  Mr. P has commented that my skin also looks smoother and softer.  Dare I flatter myself by suggesting he may have also been trying to say more radiant?  ???  I believe the smoothness factor is part of the porcelain effect.

Silica microbeads prevent undesired shine
Initially.  There's no getting around that I have some powerful sebaceous glands in my skin and no matter what I use, I will always have a shiny and oily T-zone by 1pm.  That said, this compact works great for those with oily skin because it tones down the shine and turns it more radiant and glowy.  But on dry or overly blotted skin it is a different story - it just looks flat matte with accentuated lines.  *ergh!*

If your skin is:

Shiny-----------Radiant/Glowy-------------Matte--------------Flat Matte

Chanel will tone it down ONE notch to the right.

Final Verdict
I would repurchase this if I had the money.  I like that the pan is deep (est. 0.25 in. deep).  It works for my skin and I would recommend this to those with similar skin types.  ^_^

***Product reviews are 100% my opinion and based on my experiences with the product.***

A little glowly and radiant, not too shiny,
and natural skin still shows through. :-D

Product Review: Olay Definity Color Recapture in Light/Medium

Please find more details about this product here.

CLAIMS:

It will take 8 weeks to correct the look of dullness, discoloration, brown spots, PLUS fine lines and wrinkles.

*************************************************************

EDIT:  Updated 4/1/2011

I've started using this again this Winter/Spring as a tinted moisturizer.  I have to retract some statements from my intial "review" from May of 2010 (see below).  It doesn't feel so sticky on my face anymore, nor does my skin seem to be producing excess oil.  I have to conclude that the difference between my first time using this product and this time is the climate.  My initial "review" took place in Dallas.  My current review takes place in Los Angeles.

SoCal climate:

~Dry

~Current temperature 89 F

Northern Texas climate:

~Humid

~Temperature then 85-95 F

Correct the look of dullness, discoloration, brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles

This is a tinted moisturizer and provides a sheer coverage to even out the skin tone without caking too much color on my face.  I haven't noticed an under-the-surface improvement to my skin.  My sun spots and fine lines are still where they are, but just layering on a pea-sized amount is enough to even out my skin tone.  So, I'd say this is a surface fix rather than molecular or cellular improvement.

Would I repurchase this?

For the convenience of having SPF, a little bit of anti-aging, and tone correction, I would repurchase this product but only use it in a climate like SoCal.  I wouldn't use it in a humid environment.

For my initial "review", keep reading.

*************************************************************

I'm going to do something different with this Product Review entry for Olay Definity.  What I will do with this entry is to provide periodic updates as I go along in my usage of this product.

5/10/2010

Today is the first day of using Olay Definity Color Recapture in light/medium.  I just HAD to write this down right now.  Upon first pumping it out on my skin, I noticed that the product looks very very pigmented.  It looks like a foundation but with gel consistency.  It smells a little like sunblock, but that's to be expected because it has SPF 15 in it.  The smell doesn't bother me as much because it fades over a short period of time.  The packaging is nice because it is an air-powered pump bottle that I believe is more hygienic.

Putting it on my face though, the coverage of the pigments in this moisturizer is very sheer, but it does even out the skin tone just a tiny bit.  Clearly, my spots are still visible, but I don't look as blotchy.  It feels nice and moisturizing.

HOWEVER, my face has been sticky since I put this on.  I layer my DDF sunscreen over my moisturizers so if this Olay Definity product is not absorbing into my skin, it surely will also make my sunscreen even stickier.  So my face has been really sticky all day today.  It was sticky when I put on my bareMinerals matte foundation, which subsequently made my brush sticky as well.  I have been producing a copious amount of grease today.  I've gone through 3 blottings since 7am this morning and the time right now is 4:35pm.  Each of the blottings have used up 5-6 sheets of my e.l.f. Shine Erasers.

I haven't yet determined if it is the product or the heat and humidity that is making my face feel sticky and greasy, but I don't recall having a sticky problem when I was using Olay Regenerist Regenerating Serum.  I especially don't recall having to blot 3 times within the span of 10 hours when I used Olay Regenerist as my moisturizer.  I will keep trying this out and we'll see if the stickiness is just a factor of the climate here rather than the product itself.

One hour to midnight.  I cannot use this product in the summer.  It is this product that is sitting on top of my skin and making my skin feel sticky.  I don't know if this is the "dewey" effect, which I think is beautiful on many people.  However, I'm unfortunate to have such greasy skin, and this product is drawing all the grease out of my skin.  I have never been compelled to wash any product off my face after work as I have been with this product.  I washed my face at 6:30pm this evening, and have just rewashed at 10:45pm.  So much grease from my face that when I splashed water on my face to wet it my hands also came away greasy.  >_<  I am so unhappy!

Of the reviews I've read, this product may be suited for drier skins.  Reviewers with oilier skins agreed that either this product may have broken them out or caused excessive grease.  I will have to save this for my winter skincare routine.  I need to go back to the store and repurchase the Olay Regenerist Regenerating Serum, which at least helped control the oil for longer than this Definity Color Recapture product.

It seems like today is the only day I will use this product.  Sorry, Olay, my skin is not agreeing with this product.

Product Review: Skin Nature Facial Treatment 100% Collagen Extract

Before I stopped using the term "HG" to describe much beloved products (Arthurian Romance and Grail Legend student here - thanks Professor LG from UCI!) this product was the HG of all HGs!  Unfortunately, I don't know where to get more of it.  I've Googled this and I can't find it, which makes me believe it's only sold to spa establishments.  I got my one and only batch from a friend of a friend who knew somebody.



Box lid.  Sorry that the flash is a little strong.



Comes with 5 capsules and 5 caps.



Clear collagen extract.  Three drops is enough for my face and throat.

Product claims
Facial Treatment Extract is your first step in breaking the age barrier and will visibly de-age your skin in 30 days.  This unique works at night to repair sun-damaged skin.  Fine dry skin lines become less noticeable.  Skin looks firmer, smoother, more radiant.  A beautiful younger-looking complexion is yours.

***Please note that if I can't find anything on this product, I'm sure you won't be able to find other reviews for it either.  But if you're lucky enough to find something on it, please let me know!  As always, my product reviews are 100% my opinion and based on my own experiences.***

Visibly de-age your skin in 30 days
How about less than a week?  If I use this as a night treatment, I see results overnight.  If I use this as a day treatment under SPF, I see improvements within the week.

Repair sun-damaged skin
Anyone who has been following my blog knows that I'm worried about the sun spots on my upper cheek bones.  Since I started using my collagen extract again (been rationing it over the years), I have noticed significant improvements to the hyperpigmentation.

Lines become less noticeable
The fine lines on the verge of developing into full blown wrinkles under my eyes fill up and are almost gone.  I love the skin under my eyes... they look like they did when I was a teenager and a young twenty-something. 


Skin looks firmer, smoother, more radiant
With the lines nearly gone, and hyperpigmentation improved, my skin looks firmer and smoother.  It also looks more translucent and therefore more radiant.

Gripes
I can't find where to restock on my stash.  I can't find this product on line.  The stash I have is really limited.  When I'm done with my last three capsules, I'll be completely out.  ***SADNESS!!!***  The capsules are so small so I don't have a lot of this wonderful product.

If I find more information on this product, I will definitely update this post with where to buy this product because I would recommend this to everyone!  I would pay any price for this product - that is how much I want this product.  If anyone finds out where to get it, please let me know!