2007 in Review: Top Rated Product Reviews

As 2007 winds down to a close, Cinnamon Kitten takes a look back at the top rated products from 2007.

Of all the products reviewed on Cinnamon Kitten in 2007 (and there were a lot!), the following products were rated 4.5 to 5 (out of 5) paws!

~ bareMinerals Get Started Kit (guest reviewed)
~ Boots No7 Restore & Renew
~ Boots No7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick
~ Bourjois Eau de Gloss (guest reviewed)
~ Carmex Click Stick
~ Clinique Cream Shaper for Eyes
~ Clinique Superbalm Tinted Lip Treatment
~ Clinique Three-Step Skin Care System (guest reviewed)
~ CoverGirl LashExact Mascara (guest reviewed)
~ Erth Minerals Blush
~ Erth Minerals Moth Veil
~ Gloves in a Bottle
~ Lancome Flextencils (guest reviewed)
~ L'Oreal True Match Super-Blendable Makeup (guest reviewed)
~ Mary Kay Eye Liner (guest reviewed)
~ Neutrogena All-in-One Make-Up Removing Cleansing Wipes
~ Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser (guest reviewed)
~ Nivea Caregloss & Shine
~ N.Y.C. Eye Liner Pencil (guest reviewed)
~ Rimmel Underground Light Beam Lipgloss
~ Rimmel Underground Sweet Stuff Lipstick

Of course, there are thousands of great products out there, but that's what makes this so much fun - there will ALWAYS be something out there for us to try, review and share with our readers!

Here's to 2008 and many, many more product reviews to come!

Don't forget, we're always looking for product reviews from our readers. If you've tried a product that you want to tell other readers about (to either praise it or tell others to stay away!), send us a product review! (Details on how to submit a product review can be found on the left-hand sidebar).

The Splendid Best of 2007

As the year comes to end, the Splendicity community has gathered up it's best posts from the year. Take a look at what you might have missed over the year. Be sure to check out all of the members posts to get to know some of the best beauty, fashion, style, and shopping blogs on the web.

BEAUTY

Viva Woman finds out how to read the secret batch codes of beauty products and determine their expiry date.
A Touch of Blusher brings you highlights from 2007.
Makeup and Beauty Blog brings you 5 Makeup and Beauty Tips from Paris Hilton.
Savvy Skin tells you the Top 10 Signs You're A Beauty Junkie.
Just in time for you to ring in the New Year, makeup loves me teaches you the fine art of properly applying false eyelashes.
Ellen from Spa Beautifully shares the Top 10 Beauty Trends to Look for in 2008.
Beauty and Fashion Tech has found that The ThermaClear Acne Treatment Device is One of the Year's Most Interesting and Useful Devices.
The results are in for Temptalia's Best of Beauty Awards 2007, check out who won!
Sugar Shock says, "My Lips are Sealed".
Christine at 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic spends time with Celebrity Makeup Artist Jake Bailey and Max Factor.
Beauty Secrets Revealed Shares a Blueberry Age-Defying Face Pack Recipe.
At Teen Style Lounge, Liberty shares 6 Quick Tips to Super Kissable Lips.
eBeautyDaily lists the top 10 beautiful things she couldn't do without in 2007.
The Scented Life says that Bond no 9 is bringing Andy Warhol back to life - in a little silver bottle!
Beauty Banter muses on the 5 Minute Make-Up application! Including the EXACT products you'll need to achieve the no-fuss look!
NY Spender asks "Is your hair color right for you?"
A Girl's Gotta Spa! thinks the Baby Quasar LED Light Therapy is a splendid secret weapon against acne & wrinkles.
Makeup Minute thinks Billy B's Paintbrushes are splendid beauty tools that are worth every penny.
Cinnamon Kitten's 2007 in Review: 5 Favorite New Products.
Beautyholics Anonymous has Effective Ways To Losing Weight.
Beautiful Makeup Search says that this is one must-have beauty product that works for everyone.

FASHION

Eagle eyed ShopDiary was the first blogger to point out the startling similarities between dresses by Diane Von Furstenberg and Forever 21. A week later, DVF sued Forever 21.
Style...a work in progress says "...Sea Bass, Sea Bass...that's four Sea Bass".
STYLEnosh asks the the difficult question, "Have You Let Yourself Go?"
She Knows Best has a Men's Fashion Don't List.
Spork Fashion Exclusive! Actress Shannyn Sossamon Shares her Style.
The Snarkstress needs your help in finding out just what exactly is on David Beckham's head.
Indie Style File has A Take five interview with Kelly of Killer Cotton fame.
The Fashionable Kiffen says that fashion is an art form.
CelebLOOK tells you where to get Emmy Award Dress Look-a-Likes.

SHOPPING

Laya's EYE shows us a new class of wine glass charms.
Her Accessories has a list of 10 reasons (or excuses) to treat yourself to a really good pair of shoes.
Style It Less '07 Review | List Of Under $100 Stylish Looks.
Style Tots has some Spring 2008 Pediped News.
Shopalicious is convinced that these knickers will put you in a festive mood to ring in the new year!
Kim at All That and a got in lots of pics of Simply Vera, the Vera Wang line at Kohl's.
The Latest Luxe says to Set Your Gold Standard with Stiletto Patent Sandals by Bruno Frisoni.
Aging Fabulous says that these are Must-Have Wicking Pajamas.

The Splendicity community wishes you and yours a very happy, healthy, and splendid new year!

2007 in Review: 5 Favourite New Products

2007 was a great year for me. Not only did I launch this fun, little blog and meet lots of fellow beauty addicts, I tried many new beauty products that I normally wouldn't have purchased in order to ensure I reviewed a variety of products for this site. The result is that I've discovered some great (and not so great) products.

Of all the new products I tried, the following 5 (in no particular order) are my favourites and have been given a permanent place in my beauty cabinet.

(In order to make this list, products must be something I've never tried before 2007)

Benefit 10

I'm a faithful fan of my MAC Blush, however, on a recent trip to the US, I left my makeup case at home and had to make an emergency run to Sephora (of course). I had planned on getting another blush, but decided to try something new and picked up some Benefit 10 instead.

Half-highlighter, half-bronzer, a simple sweep of this product creates an illusion of cheekbones and also creates subtle highlights and shadows anywhere you sweep. I never leave the house now without doing the "sexy sweep"!

Read my full review here.

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash

I've never been a big fan of bar soaps, so I've almost always used body washes since they were introduced into the market. However, I still find that most soaps/body washes leave my skin dry enough that I need to follow up with a moisturizer immediately after showering.

After using Dove's Deep Moisture Body Wash, my skin is left extremely soft and moisturized after showering - enough that I don't need to put on any moisturizer.

I also like the nice, light scent that this wash leaves on my skin. Very touchable!

Read my full review here.

Nivea Caregloss & Shine

The Canadian winters, with its famous (or should I say, infamous?) wind-chills usually wreak havoc on my lips. They get so dry and chapped that wearing lipstick is just out of the question and I'm scrambling for lip balms. Even glosses get too goopy because of my chapped lips.

I only discovered Nivea's Caregloss & Shine lip balm a little while ago and I already have two! What makes this lip treatment so great is that it not only completely moisturizes and heals my poor lips, but it comes in great colours! I own Natural (a sheer pink shade) and Red, a lovely, rosy red gloss. So now I can pamper my lips in winter and still indulge in a glossy, rosy mouth.

Read my full review here.

Neutrogena All-in-One Make-Up Removing Cleansing Wipes

I love this product. It is absolutely PERFECT for travelling (which I do quite often). It comes in its own package and takes off all traces of make-up, including waterproof mascara. But it's not just a cleasing cloth, it also tones and moisturizes. After wiping off all my makeup, my skin feels fresh and soft and lightly scented.

Before discovering this product, everytime I went away, I carried along a bottle of cleanser, a bottle of toner and two bottles of facial moisturizer (day and night). Now I just bring a box of these wipes and a bottle of my daytime facial moisturizer (it has SPF). It has really freed up some luggage space!

Read my full review here.

E.L.F. Brand

Ok, so this is not a product, but this is one of my favourite discoveries of 2007. Being someone who likes to try a lot of new things, but not having a budget to do that all the time, makeup for $1 (USD) is like a dream come true.

Not only does E.L.F. offer great quality products for $1, they're full-size! There's such a huge variety of products (covering lips, face, eyes, and tools) and so many colours, that there's something for everyone. And they ship to Canada at a very reasonable shipping fee, which isn't something that all retailers offer, so that's a definite bonus.

Near the end of 2007, E.L.F. started launching all sorts of new products, like nail polish, mineral makeup, skincare, etc (note: not all of these new products are $1), so I'm excited to see what they come out with in 2008!

~~~~~

Were there any products that you tried for the first time in 2007 that have become part of your favourites list? Leave a comment and let me know! I'd love to see what new things have joined your beauty cabinet this year!

NEW Product Line: MAC Originals

"Originals have a lust for life! From Carol Channing to Bowie, and every glam rocker in between. MAC pays tribute to the high flyers in the shades, shadows and looks that stylishly stand the test of time. Originals are now and forever." (description from MAC site)

I love it. Who says you have to be in your 20s to be glamourish? Style icons come in all ages and MAC's new collection is captures the spirit of their "devil-may-care" attitude!


Lipstick, 3 g/0.1 oz, $16.50 CAD
Colour plus texture for the lips. What made MAC famous.
- Russian Red (matte): intense blush-red
- Sandy B (frost): a light shell pink
- Rozz Revival (lustre): watermelon reddish pink
- Chintz On Chintz (lustre): sheer mid-tone yellow brown
- Utter Pervette: soft pastel pink
- Back To Del Rio: deep brown red
- Nouveau-Frou (lustre): beigey grey pink with white pearl
- Retrofluid (lustre): sheer dirty deep plum with gold and red pearl
- Supersequin: plummy pink with silver pearl
- Twig-Twig (lustre): neutral brown plum

Tinted Lipglass, 4.8 g/0.17 oz, $16.50 CAD
Designed to be worn on its own, over Lip Pencil or Lipstick, Tinted Lipglass is the perfect product for creating shine that lasts. It's pigmented, very shiny and can impart subtle or dramatic colour. Containing Jojoba Oil to help soften and condition lips, Tinted Lipglass is packaged in a convenient bottle with a sponge tip applicator that provides a quick, smooth, even application.
- C-Thru (cream): soft peached-beige with shimmer
- Full On Lust (cream): neutral brown pink
- Avarice (cream): mid-tone yellow red with soft red pearl
- Real Desire (frost): deep plum with red pearl
- Nico Now (frost): mid-tone grey purple with multicoloured pearl

Eye Shadow, 1.5 g/0.50 oz, $16.50 CAD
Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well.
- Memorabilia (matte): dirty purple
- Parrot (frost): a soaringly electric turquoise
- Daisychain (satin): soft yellow beige with soft white pearl
- Ochre Style (frost): mid-tone yellow brown with gold
- A Little Folie (matte): mid-tone red brown
- Clue (frost): mid-tone grey with silver pearl
- Alum (satin): mid-tone blue grey with soft blue pearl
- Charred (frost): deep steel grey with silver pearl
- Frisco (matte): soft pastel pink

Pigment, 7.5 g/0.26 oz, $23.50 CAD
A highly concentrated loose colour powder that contains ingredients to help it adhere to the skin. Use to create a subtle wash of colour or an intense effect. Pigment doesn't streak or cake, is easy to blend and long-lasting.
- Steel Blue (frost): rich deep turquoise green blue shone with small pearl particle
- Melon (frost): soft bright golden peach
- Violet (frost): vivid bright violet-purple
- Golden Olive (frost): high frosted green/gold
- Kitschmas (frost): light airy shimmering pink/mauve pearl


Glitter, 7.5 g/0.26 oz, $20 CAD
Can be applied directly to the skin or combined with products to create high-level glitter and sparkle effects on all areas of the face, skin and hair
- Reflects Blackened Red: sparkling burgundy
- Reflects Antique Gold: sparkling gold
- Reflects Very Pink: sparkling fuschia pink
- Reflects Transparent Teal: sparkling white with turquoise

Eye Pencil, 1.45 g/0.05 oz, $15 CAD
Provides a rich, consistent colour using ingredients that have virtually no irritancy potential. Long-lasting and won't cake or streak.
- Coffee: muted brown
- Ebony: soft black
- Indigo: muted greenish-blue

Mascara X, 0.23 oz/6.5 g, $15 CAD
Builds dramatically longer, thicker and glossier looking lashes. The softer fiber of the football-shaped brush delivers maximum payoff on the lashes. Doesn't clump or smudge, is ophthalmologist tested and designed to be long-wearing.
- Black X: black

images: maccosmetics.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

To all my new and not-so-new readers, my guest reviewers and writers, my industry contacts, fellow bloggers and all the beauty addicts out there - have a VERY MERRY Christmas and a wonderful holiday!

As you can tell, I'm taking it easy these couple of days and enjoying the time with family and friends. I'll be back in a few days and will have lots of new product reviews and new products to blog about as we move into the new year!

Product Review: SpaSensials Hand & Foot Treatment System

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: SpaSensials
Name: Hand & Foot Treatment System
Approx. Price: $11.99 USD

I recently received a sample of SpaSensials Hand & Foot Treatment System to try and was pretty excited about it because I love the idea that I can wear something for a few minutes and end up with super-soft hands and feet.

I already own a pair of "silicone socks" that are reusable (or at least until the inner silicone lining wears out) but SpaSensials are a one-use product that have an inner lining of moisturizer.

SpaSensials socks and gloves are made of a proprietary, stretchy material that's infused with aloe, jojoba and vitamins A, B5 and E, and are "clinically proven to soothe and deeply moisturize dry, cracked skin."

To use these gloves/socks, you put them on for 10-15 minutes and after removing them, you rub any remaining moisturizer into your skin.

To Purr About:
- light scent (Mandarin Ginger Flower) is really nice
- the outside material stays completely dry, thanks to a plastic lining so you can actually do other things (I surfed the internet)
- after removing the socks/gloves, there was only a thin layer of moisturizer remaining on my skin, which was easily rubbed in
- the moisturizer is quickly absorbed by the skin
- I noticed an immediate softening effect around my cuticles and on my heels
- the socks were small enough that I could actually walk around (I have tiny feet)

Claws Out:
- because the socks are smaller, they may not fit people with larger feet (although it's supposed to be one-size-fits-all)
- the scent may not be for everyone, as I know some people prefer fragrance-free products
- because this is a one-time use product, there is a lot of "stuff" thrown out

Final Comments:
Although there are some concerns about the size, the fragrance, and the damage to the environment this can cause (well, only if you use this product a lot), I really have to say that this product did provide me with softer hands and feet after use. I personally liked the scent, and the sock size worked for me (the gloves were a little large). It's a small way to pamper yourself (or someone you care about) and would make a nice little treat once in a while.

You can also buy the socks and gloves separately. Currently, these are available through Amazon.com and Ulta.com (hey, when is it coming to Canada???)

Rating (out of 5):




If you have a product that you've tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: spasensials.com and M80

And the Mystery Shampoo is....

For those of you who missed Ellen's show, or haven't seen the commercial's yet, the "Mystery Shampoo" is none other than...(drumroll please)...Head and Shoulders! Specifically the samples were H&S Classic Clean Shampoo and Classic Clean Conditioner.

Head & Shoulders is introducing a newly expanded line of conditioners that start with an unexpected source, your scalp, to provide truly healthy, beautiful hair. The conditioners are "designed with the world’s finest cosmetic ingredients and with a proprietary form of zinc pyrithione (ZPT) to deliver 50% more of the scalp care active ingredient to the scalp than just shampoo alone, while nourishing hair from root to tip for all day softness. The result is truly beautiful, radiant hair that can only come from a healthy scalp."

H&S Conditioner Line:
- Classic Clean: Improves scalp health and provides balanced conditioning for soft, manageable hair
- Dry Scalp Care: Provides a moisturized flake-free scalp and protects dry hair from damage and dryness to reduce split ends and breakage
- Smooth & Silky: Improves scalp health and calms dry frizzy hair to restore a silky smooth look

H&S Shampoo Line:
- Classic Clean: #1 selling shampoo in the US; deep-cleansing formula leaves hair looking and feeling thoroughly clean
- Dry Scalp Care: Moisturizes hair and relieves dry scalp and itch
- Smooth & Silky: Smoothes dry, frizzy hair to restore a silky smooth look
- Citrus Breeze: Provides an uplifting clean for fine/oily hair
- Extra Volume: Provides volume and body for fine hair
- Ocean Lift: With sea mineral essence, invigorates scalp and hair
- Refresh: Provides a cool sensation leaving your scalp feeling refreshed and hair clean and manageable
- Restoring Shine: With natural plant extracts, restores natural shine to dull hair
- Sensitive Care: Hypo-allergenic formula with Aloe soothes sensitive scalps

For those of you that tried the samples - did you manage to guess what the sample is?

GUEST Post: 10 Beauty Tips for the First Date

Cinnamon Kitten is very excited to publish this Guest Post from Vicky (check out her dating advice blog here!)

~~~~~

Looking good on your first date is important because first impressions matter. Regardless of what you may have heard before, people do formulate an opinion of you when they first see you and it's no secret that attractiveness will factor in.

Luckily, you don't need to be the next Miss America to get a positive reaction, you just need to learn the correct beauty approach and then emphasize the good qualities you have.

Here are some points to consider.

Emphasize One Key Area On The Face

Far too many women will go with bold eyes and bold lips, creating a look that is just a little too overwhelming. Instead, focus on playing up your eyes, whether you choose to make them smokey or really open them up with bright colors and then play down your lips with a barely-there color.

Add Some White Shadow In The Corner Of Your Eye

As long as you are not going for something very dark with your eye color, try adding a small amount of white to the very corner. This will really give your eyes a wide-eyed look and help set them out, showing off your beautiful eye color.

Many men say the first thing they notice about a woman is her eyes, so why not use this to your advantage?

Always Go For The Gloss

Whether you're using lipstick or not, a gloss is a must on a first date. It'll make your lips look softer, moister, and definitely more kissable. Do watch that you don't put on too sticky of a gloss, as this is a turn-off for most men, but go with something that lays on the shine and potentially even tastes great for his added benefit.

Leave Curls By Your Face

When it comes to your hairstyle, one that's a can't-miss by most men is half of it pulled back with a few delicate, curly tendrils framing the face. This further enhances the eyes and gives you a playful yet sexy appearance.

Go Easy On The Perfume

While you definitely do want to make sure you smell good for your first date, try not to overload yourself. At this point you won't entirely know what types of scents your date finds attractive and if you happen to choose wrong and are overwhelmingly strong, this could really impact how long he wants to stay near you.

Choose a fresh scent since most people find these appealing and apply with ease.

Don't Overlook Gold

Gold is a great make-up color that many women never make use of. You don't necessarily have to use strictly gold on any part of your face, but rather, enhance the look you already have with a small amount of gold powder.

It'll give you a nice tanned appearance as well, that'll really glow when you hit the light.

Take The Occasion Into Consideration

Make sure when you are applying your make-up that you take into consideration the location of your date. For an evening date at a classier restaurant you will want to wear a different look of make-up for example than if you were meeting at a local coffee house for lunch.

Always ensure that your look is appropriate, not only so that you give off the right impression, but also so that you feel comfortable yourself. If you feel as though you're out of place, this will come across in the confidence level you project.

Make Sure It's 'You'

Next, you want to make sure the make-up you do wear is 'you'. If you get all done up for your first date and it doesn't even resemble how you normally prefer to wear your make-up, you'll be sending a false impression to your date.

While it's fine to add a few extra touches to really enhance yourself, don't go for a complete opposite look of that that you normally use.

Use Jewellery Selectively

Make sure the jewellery you choose isn't too overdone. This can lead some men to think of you as more high maintenance so it's best to error on the side of caution for this.

If there is one piece you definitely do want to go for, it's a really nice dangling pair of earrings. These help to draw more attention to your face, especially if you've used the principles mentioned above.

When In Doubt, Use The Less-Is-More Approach

Finally, when you're prepping for your first date, if you are even in question as to whether you should put on more make-up, chances are you should leave it off.

The vast majority of men actually prefer women who look more natural and whose make-up isn't noticeable rather than women where it's clearly obvious she's painted the colors of the rainbow on her face.

Keep eye make-up natural and use a fresh lipstick color that's not too overwhelming. You'll likely find this is what turns the most heads - particularly that of your date.

So, keep all of these points in mind next time you find yourself preparing for your first date. While it shouldn't make or break whether he wants to see you again, if you enhance your natural beauty just right, it might add a little something extra to that 'spark' of excitement he feels when he lays his eyes upon you.

About Vicky: Vicky is a relationship/dating expert, freelance writer, and soon-to-be author. She shares her dating advice in Got A Crush?

Product Review: Carmex Click Stick

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Carmex
Name: Click Stick
Size: 0.15 oz
Approx. Price: $0.87 USD

Flavour Tried: Cherry

I always have a little pot of Carmex on my dresser at home, but when I'm out and about, I'm not a big fan of pot lip glosses or balms since I don't really want to constantly be applying products on my lips with my fingers.

So, a few years ago, I was super excited when Carmex came out with its Click Stick, a stick version of it's great balm. Launched in 1999, the Carmex Click Stick contains 15 SPF. Created for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes to help keep their lips in shape

So imagine my excitement when I was in the US and saw that the Click Stick came in flavours! Available in Mint, Strawberry and Cherry, I grabbed 2 Cherry and a Mint.

To Purr About:
- great lip balm soothes and calms my lips, especially during the harsh winter season here in Canada
- light Cherry scent is really nice
- smooth balm glides on easily
- the convenient tube makes it easy for me to carry Carmex around in my bag and makes application easier (compared to the old pot style)
- because of the Cherry scent, this Carmex version is slightly less "medicinal" smelling than the original formula

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
I love the original Carmex lip balm and found it was one that I could really count on whenever I had lip problems (chapping, dryness, etc). But I was never overly fond of the pot style since it wasn't as convenient to carry around or apply (my hands aren't always clean!). I was pretty happy when Carmex came out with a stick version and I was really happy when I was in Target and saw that it now came in Cherry, Mint and Strawberry! :)

Rating (out of 5):




If you have a product that you've tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: carma-labs.com

The Sunday Saver - new format

I noticed the Sunday Saver posts were getting longer and longer as each week I found more and more deals, coupons, bonus codes and bonus gifts.

To solve this problem, there will be a couple of changes coming to the Saver page:
- The Sunday Saver will now be the Beauty Saver
- instead of a weekly post, the page will be a permanent page that will be updated whenever there are new deals (not just on Sundays!)
- there will be a button on the left-hand sidebar that readers can click to get directly to the Beauty Saver page

So remember, check the Beauty Saver page regularly for up-to-date info on current promotions, coupon codes and sales! :)

Product Review: Benefit Get Even

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Benefit
Name: Get Even
Size: 8.9 g / 0.31 oz
Approx. Price: $28 USD

Shade Tried: 02 - Medium

After never having tried any Benefit products before, I bought 2 Benefit products during a trip to Sephora in the US and I'm quickly becoming a convert. I bought benefit 10 (you can read the review here) and benefit get even powder.

From Benefit's site:
"Got a case of the "blotchies"? Perfection is just a blot away with our incredible action-blotting powder. In the perfect nude shades, get smooth skin, get rid of redness, get flawless finish...use the sponge to lightly press [the powder] onto your skin wherever you see redness, oil, or discoloration. It can be used over or under makeup and it's perfect for a mid-day touch up!"

To Purr About:
- Very light shades of powder
- Great coverage to even out skin tone and smooth out inconsistencies
- The compact is a simple black compact, but it has a cool, curved shape that I really like

Claws Out:
- The sponge is extremely thin and sits on top of the powder (I'm spoiled by MAC's compacts, where there's a separate compartment for the sponge)
- Since it only comes in 3 shades, it's not the greatest product for everyone. I chose 02-medium, as that's the closest to my skin tone, but after using it, my husband did remark that my skin looked good, but lighter than usual, so the difference is noticeable if it's too "off"

Final Comments:
Although this product does even out my skin tone, I don't know if it's something I would always use. I'm usually good with my MAC StudioFix compact, which is a foundation & powder in one and then I generally use that to touch-up through the day or use blotting powders. I don't think I want to carry around 2 compacts around with me all day long.

For people who have very good complexions and just want something to "take the shine off" or even out a few red spots, this might be just what you're looking for. But that's if your skin is close in tone to one of the 3 available shades. Since I need something "stronger" to even out my skin, I'll be sticking to my StudioFix.

Rating (out of 5):




If you have a product that you've tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: benefitcosmetics.com

Product Review: Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Neutrogena Norwegian Formula
Name: Hand Cream
Size: 2 oz / 56 g
Approx. Price: $3.99 USD

Scent Tried: Fragrance Free

Neutrogena claims that this product is the "#1 dermatologist recommended hand cream in Canada." and that "this clinically proven, highly concentrated formula instantly leaves dry hands noticeably softer and smoother after just one application. Used daily, it helps prevent dry, chapped skin - even under the harshest of conditions."

The Canadian winter really plays havoc with my skin. My skin gets extremely dry and feels tight and stretched. I don't suffer from any skin problems (eczema, psiorisis, etc), but the dryness is still bad enough that I get the tell-tale scaly "alligator" skin that is prominently on display in skin cream commercials.

Which means that I'm always on the lookout for the best moisturizers - body, hand and face. Although every person has their own personal preference, one of the things that I must have in a moisturizer is quick-absorption (I have no patience to wait for something to absorb so I can keep going about my day) and non-greasiness.

To Purr About:
- After a couple of applications, I did notice that my hands were much less dry and actually felt softer and more moisturized
- Fragrance-free really is fragrance free
- A little dab is enough to moisturize both my hands

Claws Out:
- This product is pretty sticky upon application and takes a few minutes to be fully absorbed (which is a few minutes too long for me!)

Final Comments:
Although it's a great hand cream and does deliver moisture to dry hands, it is pretty sticky after application and you really have to rub it in and then wait a few minutes before you can do anything with your hands, which is a minus to me. This product will probably be something I use when my hands are feeling extremely dry, but wouldn't be something I carry around with me all the time since I prefer something less sticky.

If you don't mind the slight stickiness (very similar to Glysomed), then I would definitely recommend this cream.

Rating (out of 5):




If you have a product that you've tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: neutrogena.ca

Product Review: Benefit 10

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Benefit
Name: 10
Size: 10g / 0.35 oz
Approx. Price: $28 USD

During my recent sojourn across the border, I visited Sephora to pick up the benefit dandelion powder. However, it was sold out, so I decided to try benefit 10.

One half of this little box is filled is a satiny pink powder, while the other half has a bronzer. So you can "bronze & highlight in one sexy sweep".

To Purr About:
- Lovely pink highlighthing powder isn't too pink or too bright so it does give a nice highlight to my skin tone
- The bronzer is also a nice shade that isn't too overwhelming
- With one simple sweep, you actually do highlight and bronze and it does create a "sculpted cheek" look
- Very easy to use

Claws Out:
- The simple box design is a little too simple - I have to keep the plastic inner box tray in the box so that I'm not forced to leave the brush sitting directly on the powder, but it's a hassle to take the brush out, then the plastic tray every time I use this product
- Packaging doesn't make it something you want to tote around in your purse/make-up bag

Final Comments:
Although I was a little skeptical of this product when I bought it, it's one of my favourite purchases from my shopping trip. I have a pretty round face so I normally do the "blush on the cheek apples" thing and don't bother much to "create" cheekbones that I don't have.

With this lovely product, one simple sweep and then a quick blend actually creates a very subtle cheekbone image, which was a very nice surprise and very cool to see. Very easy to use, the only drawback is the packaging makes it difficult to carry in a purse for quick touch-ups.

Rating (out of 5):




If you have a product that you've tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: benefitcosmetics.com

Product Review: Dove Cool Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: Dove
Name: Cool Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner
Approx. Price: $7 USD

Scent Tried: Cucumber & Green Tea

We’ve all heard about the health benefits of green tea, and it’s everywhere we turn – but how about in our shampoo & conditioners? In my search for a hair product to make my hair as shiny & sleek as those girls I see on the street & envy so much, I’ve turned to Dove.

Dove says "for hair that smells fresh and feels clean, revitalized and beautiful.”

To Purr About:
- I love the smell of this product. It smells really fresh and crisp and not too strong!
- My hair looked great the day after using this product!

Claws Out:
- Clean feeling only lasted 1 day
- Not available in Canada yet

Final Comments:
I have coarse, thick, dry hair which I wash about every other day & in most cases I do not blow-dry or style. When I first started using these 2 products I noticed that the day of, and the next, I would have generally good hair days. I attributed this to the fact that when you first start using any “good” product your hair/skin usually reacts positively. After a month I’ve come to my conclusion: my hair does look nice the day after using this product (which is a plus), but the clean feeling doesn’t last as long as with my previous shampoo (minus).

Rating (out of 5):




If you have a product that you've tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: dove.us productreviewelf

NEW Product: Benefit 10 Palette

Brand: Benefit

Name: 10 Palette
Price: $28 USD

Giving you a sexy sweep and some great colours all in one easy palette, this little package is sure to please any Benefit fan!

Product Notes:
Palette includes:
- 10: 3 g/0.1 oz
- light eyeshadow: 0.90 g/0.03 oz
- medium eyeshadow: 0.6 g/0.02 oz
- silky finish lipstick: 1.20 g/0.04 oz

Limited edition.

image: benefitcosmetics.com

Housekeeping: Please excuse the mess...

Since the holidays are generally a little slower for me work-wise, I'm taking this down-time to refresh Cinnamon Kitten. Nothing major, just a few banner changes, possibly some layout changes, etc. The reason I'm posting about this is because I just wanted to let my readers know what's going on as they may see things moving around the page randomly over the next couple of weeks while I fiddle with layouts.

Rest assured, Cinnamon Kitten will always be available, it just may be "morphing" a bit in December!

I'm back!

I know I had said I'd be gone 2 days, but while in the US, we decided to extend our stay so I didn't get back home until yesterday. Had a GREAT shopping expedition and bought tons of stuff, including lots of Christmas gifts (and a new Coach wrist tote for myself) and about $200 worth of bath & beauty products.

Which means I have lots of new goodies to review, including:
- E.L.F. nail polish
- Carmex Click Stick
- Benefit 10
- Benefit Get Even powder

and lots more! Watch for it all coming soon!

Have a great rest of the week!

No new posts for Cinnamon Kitten for the next 2 days - I'm off to the US to do some cross-border shopping and am not bringing my laptop in order to conserve suitcase space! :)

Sephora - here I come!!!

Have a great rest of the week!

GUEST Product Review: Mary Kay Eye Liner

Reviewer: KittyC

Brand: Mary Kay
Name: Eye Liner
Approx. Price: $15 CAD

Shade Tried:
- Bronze
- Black

To Purr About:
- I am not sure how many people out there wear hard contact lens or have sensitive eyes. I myself wear hard contact lens and my eyes are VERY sensitive. Those who are like me will probably understand if something gets into your eyes, it REALLY HURTS and you CAN'T rub it at all. I like this eyeliner because it doesn't hurt me at all. Sometimes I shower with it on (yes, sometimes I forget to take off my make up before I get into the shower) and the eyeliner doesn't hurt me at all (or, it's more like I don't notice it at all)
- The eyeliner is very easy to apply
- With sensitive eyes, easy-to-apply eyeliner is so amazing
- I have tried other eyeliners, but they either take me forever to put on, or it hurts my eyes.

Claws Out:
- When I got mine the eyeliner isn't retractable, so I can't retract it (although I believe now they have since changed the design)

Final Comments:
I am pretty sure all of you have experienced bad salespeople, ie. they always push you to buy more, or they don't actually know anything, or worse, they ignore you even though you want to buy something. I love the Mary Kay consultants since they know so much, and even though you can't buy their product in-store since they do direct sales only, for a person like me who hates crowds, I like it. You can easily find a Mary Kay director near your home.

Rating (out of 5):



Thanks for the review, KittyC!

If you have a product that you've tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: sephora.com productreviewmarykay

What's that Mystery Shampoo?

Now here's a fun little promotion -

In advance of the launch of a new hair care product, a leading company is allowing Americans to try the shampoo/conditioner for free and have a guess at what brand the mystery sample belongs to.

If your great hair days are few and far between, the answer to beautiful, healthy hair is just a click away. Log on to http://www.hairmystery.com/to receive your free mystery samples. This unique hair care system’s true identity will be revealed on December 17 on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

For more information and a chance to win a free vacation at a luxury resort in Arizona, complete with golf or spa services, log on to http://www.hairmystery.com/ and order your free sample!

Anyone have a good guess as to what brand the mystery sample is? Leave a comment and let the other Cinnamon Kitten readers know!

Estee Lauder/MAC Warehouse sale

Hi everyone!

I've gotten a lot of emails about the upcoming Estee Lauder/MAC warehouse sale this weekend in Toronto. Unfortunately, I DO NOT have any invitations to this sale so I don't have any to give away this time around. :(

Gift Idea: Philosophy Candy Cane Gift Set

Brand: Philosophy

Name: Candy Cane Gift Set

Price: $35 USD

Why is it that we only indulge in the pepperminty goodness of candy canes during the holidays? Oh well! May as well take advantage while you can! This is the perfect holiday gift!

Product Notes:
Products included in the striped hat box:
- Candy Cane Shampoo<, Shower Gel and Bubble Bath, 8 oz
- Candy Cane Exfoliating Hot Tub and Shower Scrub, 3.5 oz
- Candy Cane Lip Shine

image: sephora.com

The Sunday Saver: December 2, 2007

Current Bonus Gift With Purchase Promotions

- Lancome Bonus Time at Sears (Canada) - while supplies last
- Lancome Gift with Purchase at Macys.com (USA) - while supplies last
- Clinique Gift with Purchase at Nordstrom and Nordstrom.com (USA) - while supplies last
- Gift with Purchase Online Offer at Nordstrom.com (USA) - while supplies last
- Gift with Purchase Fragrance Offer at Sears (Canada) - while supplies last

Other Gift Promotions

- beauty.com: Free Deluxe Sample of LORAC Mocktail Flavored Lip Gloss when you buy any two LORAC products. While supplies last.
- beauty.com: Free Lash Laquer in PlumBlack when you buy any DuWop eye product. While supplies last.
- beauty.com: Free Goddess Gloss in Succulent Melon when you spend $30 on Kimora Lee Simmons Beauty products . While supplies last.
- blissworld.com: Buy any Bliss gift set and get a lemon+sage soapy sap (2 oz) and body butter (2.5 oz) free. Enter code 117906 in the box at checkout - expires Dec. 10/07

Coupon Codes


E.L.F. Codes (one code valid per order)
- CAROLINA - 50% off order up to $15 (total of $7.50 savings) - expires Jan. 1/08
- NEW2ELF - 5% off total order - expires Jan. 1/08
- SHIP45 - free shipping on orders of $45 or more - expires Jan. 1/08



Benefit Codes (one code per order)
- GOODRBAD - get a free double-ended ultra-shine gloss that includes 2 sexy shades: didn't hear it from me (peaches & cream) and my people, your people (mother of pearl shimmer) with any $45 purchase or more - expires Dec. 4/07
- FRESHP65 - free US standard shipping on any $65 purchase
- INTLSHIP - free standard shipping to international destinations with any $100 purchase


Drugstore.com Codes (one code per order)

Prescriptives.com Codes
- LUCKY - get free standard shipping with any purchase - expires Dec. 15/07

Other Promotions

The Beauty Saver - Current Sales, Promotions and Coupon Codes

I'm going to try to keep this list updated as often as possible, so check back often! Offers are listed by brand and/or retailer.

If you know of a beauty-related sale, promotion or coupon code that isn't listed here - send me an email at cinnamonkitten@gmail.com and I'll add it to this list!

LAST UPDATED: July 4, 2008

Current Gift with Purchase Promotions
* Canada - Biotherm Bonus Time at Sears - Bonus Gift set is your with any $30 minimum purchase of Biotherm products - ends July 5, 2008
* Canada - Lancome Bonus Time at The Bay - Bonus Gift set is your with any $45 minimum purchase of Lancome products - ends July 26, 2008
* Canada - Shiseido Bonus Time at The Bay - Bonus Gift set is yours with any $43 minimum purchase of Shiseido products
* USA - Clinique Bonus Time at Lord & Taylor - Bonus Gift Set is yours with any $25 minimum purchase of Clinique products
* USA - Clinique Bonus Time at Nordstrom & Nordstsrom.com - Bonus Gift Set (your choice of pinks or bronzes) is yours with any $25 minimum purchase of Clinique products

Beauty.com

* Buy a BlingFusion lip gloss and get a free mini LipPlump in Bloom ($16 value) at Beauty.com. While supplies last. - expires July 30/08
* Get a free sample-filled bag designed by Lela Rose with your $100 Beauty.com purchase. While supplies last. - expires July 31/08
* Buy a Blinc eyeliner, primer, or eyelash curler and get a free mini mascara ($12 value) at Beauty.com. While supplies last. - expires Dec. 31/08
* With every $25 Jaqua purchase, receive a free travel size Pink Champagne Shower Syrup at Beauty.com. While supplies last. - expires Feb. 19/10
* With every $30 BLISS purchase, receive a free travel size Lemon & Sage Body Butter at Beauty.com. While supplies last. - expires Feb. 10/10

Benefit

* 2 free samples with every online order (no promo code required)
* Coupon Codes (one code per order)
- JULYFOUR - free US standard shipping on any order - expires July 6, 2008
- INTLSHIP - free standard shipping to international destinations with any $100 purchase

Bliss - blissworld.com

* Coupon Codes (one code per order)

Drugstore.com



Estee Lauder - esteelauder.com
* Coupon Codes (one code per order)

E.L.F.

* Coupon Codes (one code per order)

Fragrancenet.com


GreatSkin.com


Jaqua - jaquabeauty.com
* Coupon Codes (one code per order)

Lancome - lancome.com
* Coupon Codes (one code per order)

Lush - lush.ca
* Coupon Codes (one code per order)

Misikko - misikko.com
* Huge Sumemr Sale on now - Click HERE to go to sale page

Perfume Worldwide


Prescriptives - prescriptives.com
* Free standard shipping with any purchase of All Skins Mineral Makeup SPF 15 - expires August 31, 2008 (no offer code required)
* Choose a free product sample with every purchase - while supplies last
* Coupon Codes (one code per order - US residents only)

Sephora - sephora.com
* Coupon Codes (one code per order)
- SMASHBOX - buy the Smashbox Gloss & Glow set and get a free 2 oz. Body Lights Glowing Lotion