Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Primer + SPF: Alison Raffaele

Alison Raffaele
Primer: Acne Response Formula with spf 15

Not really sure if this qualifies as lotion/potion or make up, although it is technically a pre-foundation... I don't wear foundation, so I'm putting it here!

I was dubious, all this face-primer. Does anyone really have time for yet another step in the morning routine? However, this is worth it!

A couple of squirts of this smooth cream leaves my face feeling soft & protected. It feels like silky velvet, so nice! And it has zit-killers & anti-oxidants! What more does a girl need?

After a couple of weeks, I have noticed improvement in my skin texture & complexion. It's like magic. Thank you Alison!

P.S.: Free of nasty junk & environmentally responsible! Not animal tested:)

Monday, June 9, 2008

Avene oily skin products

AVENE
Cleanance soap-free facial cleanser
Cleanance anti-shine regulating lotion
These 2 products seem to work well enough, but I had to stop using them after a couple of tries, as the scent is VERY powerful. Not a bad smell, smells like the Gap Heaven perfume, but too much for me!
The cleanser is concentrated, so you only need a bit. The container with its twisty-dispensing is really cool, but hard to work with wet hands.

Cleanance acne spot treatment
Nice, not too harsh anti-zit cream with salicylic acid.
Smells so neutral, it's almost a non-scent.
Works well.

Murad Sunblock/Bronzer


Murad

Okay, great color.
No weird smell.
However, the color comes off on EVERYTHING!
It says to wait for the product to dry-- I gave it 7 minutes the 1st try, 15 the next, still have bronzed clothes, car seats, office chairs...
I used just enough to cover, not even full amount recommended for proper SPF coverage.
What gives?

Scrub: Be. Fine Pore Refining Scrub

Be. Fine
Pore Refining Scrub
Very Nice! Pleasant, actually.
Not at all rough, a very refined scrub.
Skin feels clean & healthy after using this, not raw or overly tight.

Mask: Be.Fine--Warming Clay Mask

Be. Fine
Warming Clay Mask
Pros:
  • Goes on nicely
  • Smells good (light, earthy, fruity)
  • Warming sensation not too warm
  • Seems to clear up blackheads on nose & weird chin zits
Cons:
  • Does not rinse off easily
  • Leaves face coated in oil/waxy stuff

I like the during part of this mask, but I wind up washing my face afterward to try & cut through the oil/wax. The water beads up on my face when I am rinsing off. Am I doing this wrong?

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Lip Balm: Bag Lunch's Strawberry Milkshake


Strawberry Milkshake Lip Balm
Who isn't always on the lookout for a yummy, moisturizing lip balm? This stuff works and the taste is enough but not overpowering. It's waxy yet just enough to cure a case of the chaps. It's in my work bag and it'll stay there.
And check out the website. It's indie owned and operated with a poster gallery and pics. You can even request custom balms. Sweet.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Laura Mercier - Tinted Moisturizer

Laura Mercier
Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer
Nude

Don't be scared off by the color - this blends perfectly for fair skin that's been slightly sun-kissed - even though it looks dark before application. Goes on easily and smoothly - I squirted a dime-size amount into my hands and rubbed on. How's that for effortless?
A little concealer under the eyes and over any blemishes, and this is the perfect foundation alternative for summer. Lasted through a lazy Sunday afternoon nap, so the staying power is there for sure. If you're oily, might want to dust on some transluscent powder to polish off your look.