NEW Product Line: Lancome L.U.C.I.

"Formulated exclusively by the Lancome labs, L.U.C.I. particles are able to strongly diffract the light. White, pigment-free L.U.C.I. products transform upon contact with the skin: an ultra-luminous wave is created on the skin surface." (description from MAC site)

Notes about these products:
- the white texture transforms on the skin into a colour wave that shimmers and changes depending on the angle and light.
- each skin reveals its own colour tones
- the interplay of colours comes from the combination of light, skin colour and make-up applied
- on fair skin, the shades look pastel and iridescent
- on darker skin, the shades are more intense and luminous

L.U.C.I. Eyes, $47 CAD
An eyeshadow duo in a futuristic designed seashell. The white eyeshadow transforms upon contact with the skin and becomes a transparent veil of coloured lights, which diffuses in a myriad of tones: from apricot to pink, from purple to green.
- Ray of Apricot Light
- Ray of Purple Light
- Ray of Green Light

L.U.C.I. Colour Fever Shine, $29 CAD
A new Colour Fever Shine shade, created by Gucci Westman, in a white iridescent packaging.
- Ray of Pink Light

L.U.C.I. Colour Fever Gloss, $29 CAD
A new Colour Fever Gloss shade, created by Gucci Westman, to magnify the lips with a glittering shine.
- Ray of Purple Light

L.U.C.I. Photonic, $40 CAD
A loose powder, created by Gucci Westman, in white iridescent brush, to sculpt the face with a diffuse pinky light.
- Ray of Apricot Light

images: lancome.ca

NEW Product: French Kiss Gum

Brand: TheraBreath

Name: French Kiss Gum

Price: $9 USD for 3 packs of 12

Ok, so gum isn't really a "beauty product", but I'm sure everyone can agree that fresh, clean breath is definitely something everyone wants.

Just in time for Valentine's Day - check out French Kiss Gum created by Therabreath.

French Kiss Gum contains the strong TheraBreath PLUS Formula that helps get rid of bad breath and lasts a long time.

Product Notes:
- gum doesn't contain aspartame or saccharin
- breath-freshening power of gum lasts long after the taste runs out - this is because the taste is not what is responsible for the breath control
- ideal for combating occasional or situational bad breath

I gave the gum a try and it's actually really good. The flavour lasts longer than many other "fresh breath" gum and my breath was fresher. The best part is that it doesn't have any aspartame and saccharin, which I try to avoid.

The gum (and other breath-freshening aids) are available for purchase at
www.therabreath.com.

NEW Product Line: Bliss Youth As We Know It Skincare

As a follow up to their popular The Youth As We Know It moisurizer, Bliss has launched a skincare (anti-aging) collection based on this successful product.

The Youth As We Know It, $79 USD
The popular cream that started it all. An anti-aging skin care formula that contains everything you need for incredible results.

The Youth As We Know It Cleanser, $30 USD
A cleansing cream that dissolves makeup, and includes ingredients that are known to stimulate cellular renewal, increase oxygenation and improve elasticity and tone.

The Youth As We Know It Toner, $28 USD
A gel-lotion that rebalances your skin's PH, removes the last traces of cleanser and helps to brighten, boost moisture, soothe redness and protect collagen.

The Youth As We Know It Concentrate, $70 USD
A serum that works both on contact and over time, it includes Hydroplex-3 (the same ingredients found in Bliss' The Youth As We Know It in-spa facial).

The Youth As We Know It Eye Cream, $75 USD
A serious anti-aging eye formula packed with vitamins, boosters and protectors.

images: blissworld.com

Lancome Bonus Time at Sears

Canadians - It's Lancome Bonus Time!

Retailer: Sears
Minimum amount you need to spend: $33 CAD (before taxes)
Duration: Jan. 26 - Feb. 17, 2008


You get to choose your skin care options with this Bonus Gift.

What you get:
- Hypnose Custom Volume Mascara in Black
- Colour Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow with Positive, Pose, Designer and Guest List
- Le Rouge Absolu Reshaping & Replenishing Lipcolour SPF 15 in Creme de Marron, full size
- a clear Lancome Signature cosmetics case and 3 matching gold-colour cosmetic pouches

Your choice of skincare:
- Option 1: Renergie Microlift R.A.R.E Superior Lifting Cream (15 ml jar) and Renergie Microlife R.A.R.E. Eye Superior Lifting Eye Cream (4.2 g tube)
- Option 2: Absolue Premium Bx Absolute Replenishing Cream (15 ml jar) and Absolue Premium Bx Absolute Replenishing Eye Cream (4.2 g tube)
- Option 3: High Resolution Fibrelastine Intensive Recovery Anti-Wrinkle Cream (15 ml jar) and High Resolution with Collaser-48 Deep Collagen Anti-Wrinkle Cream (10 ml pump)

image: sears.ca

Product Review: Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: Cetaphile
Name: Moisturizing Lotion
Size: 460 mL
Approx. Price: $15.99 CAD

I have very dry and sensitive skin and I turned to a dermatologist to help me relieve some of my woes. One of the products she suggested I use was Cetaphil. I’ve seen it at Shoppers Drug Mart many times, but decided to try it finally. I was pleased to learn that Cetaphil is made by a Canadian company.

Their website (www.cetaphil.ca) claims that “Cetaphil is a non-greasy formula that provides fast, long-lasting relief for dry, sensitive skin.”

To Purr About:
- definitely not greasy
- scent-free

Claws Out:
- a bit on the pricey side for body lotion
- doesn't leave my skin feeling that moisturized
- after a few months of use I was still battling itchy feeling skin

Final Comments:
I wasn’t impressed with this body lotion. I’ve been using it for months now, but did not find it better than other lotions I’ve used in the past, and in some cases it was worse. I wasn’t allergic to it or anything (which is always a plus), but my skin wasn’t left feeling very smooth or moisturized. I also didn’t find that my skin was any less prone to being dry and itchy overall. I probably would not use this lotion again. It’s a bit too pricey for the results I got. I am pretty disappointed that the dermatologist recommended this product to me – I wonder if they get any “bonuses” from the manufacturers for recommending certain products.

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: cetaphil.ca

Product Review: Aquafina Hydrating Lip Oil

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Aquafina
Name: Hydrating Lip Oil
Size: 5 g
Approx. Price: $1 CAD

I've been having a particularly harsh winter this year so have been on a tear trying out as many lip balms and skin creams I can get my hands on in an attempt to find the best product during these "wind-chill" times.

I didn't have super high hopes on this product, but it was only $1, so I grabbed it anyway. On one hand, Aquafina does not make cosmetics, so how could they possibly make a great lip balm (or oil, as the case may be). On the other hand, they do make water, so I guess they do know something about hydration.

The package states:
- "Moisture replenishing system for maximum hydration and shine"
- "Botanically enriched with jojoba oil, almond oil and vitamin E."

To Purr About:
- there was immediate hydration and moisture to my lips and they felt instant better
- the oil leaves a very high-shine and slick look to the lips

Claws Out:
- I personally didn't like the minty flavour (which wasn't mentioned on the packaging)
- the product doesn't stay very long on the lips and disappeared after a few minutes or regular talking, lip-licking other usual activities
- there was a "tingly" feeling, which to me, means that something is irritating my lips - which isn't good if your lips are already chapped or dry

Final Comments:
As I stated at the start, I didn't have high hopes for this product, and it definitely didn't deliver. The idea sounds good - a lip oil should be super-hydrating, but if a product doesn't stay on for more than few minutes, it can't really do a good job. I also didn't enjoy the tingle or mint-flavour.

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.

NEW Product Line: Spectro EczemaCare

Eczema is a condition afflicting many people. And Canadians can really suffer from it to, with the extreme weather changes and the harsh winters.

Spectro, the creators of one of my favourite "problem-skin" cleansers, has recently released a line of eczema products specially formulated to help patients manage the uncomfortable condition. The different products address each stage of the process - cleansing, moisturizing and medicating - for both adults and children.

REMOVE
Remove dirt and bacteria with gentle, soap-free, non-irritating cleansers. The fragrance-free body wash gently cleanses, moisturizes and helps manage itchy, red, dry skin.
- Adults: Spectro Jel Sensitive Cleanser, 500 mL, $11.99 - $13.99
- Kids: Spectro KIDS EczemaCare Moisturizing Body Wash, 275 mL, $8.99 - $9.99

REGULATE
A medicated cream that reduces inflammation, stops the itch and moisturizes the skin with its distinctive gentle cream base.
- Adults & Kids (12 years and over): Spectro EczemaCare Medicated Cream, 30 g, $18.99

RESTORE
These creams contain one of the highest levels of glycerine available in a moisturizing formulation. Can be used as often as needed to extend the time between flare-ups.
- Adults: Spectro EczemaCare Intense Rehydration Cream, 100 g, $13.99 - $15.99
- Kids: Spectro KIDS EczemaCare Intense Moisturizing Cream, 100 g, $13.99 - $15.99

images: Environics PR

NEW Product: Sephora Enchanted Eye Palette - Plum

Brand: Sephora

Name: Enchanted Eye Palette

Price: $32 CAD / $26 USD

Palettes Available:
- Plum
- Bronze

Eight lovely, ultra-soft eye shadows have been put into this cute little palette and can be worn together or alone, wet or dry. Currently there are two palettes available (I'm definitely tempted to pick up the Plum)

Product Notes:
Plum Palette includes eight 0.03 oz eyeshadows in:
- Strass 01 (white shimmer with white & silver glitter)
- Mat 05 (matte pale pink)
- Pearl 12 (rich lilac pearl)
- Mat 03 (matte chocolate brown)
- Mat 01 (matte charcoal black)
- Strass 13 (rose pink shimmer with silver glitter)
- Strass 16 (rich plum shimmer with silver glitter)
- Strass 08 (soft plum shimmer with silver glitter)

Bronze Palette includes eight 0.03 oz eyeshadows in:
- Chrome 01 (opalescent sheen)
- Pearl 03 (vibrant lime green pearl)
- Strass 03 (gold shimmer with gold glitter)
- Pearl 08 (champagne beige pearl)
- Mat 02 (matte grey)
- Strass 04 (rich olive green shimmer with gold glitter)
- Strass 05 (vibrant copper shimmer)
- Kiss From... (rich bronze shimmer)

image: sephora.com

Product Review: Estee Lauder Tender Blush

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: Estee Lauder
Name: Tender Blush
Size: 0.31 oz / 9 g
Approx. Price: $25 USD

Shade Tried: Peach

I picked this product up on a whim just because the colours looked so breathtakingly beautiful. I’ve been using the bonus Clinique blush for years and figured it was about time I tried something new.

Estee Lauder mentions a few things about this product, but the one thing that sticks out is their emphasis on the brush: "Your sculpting tool is the unique U.S.-patent-pending butterfly brush. Fans out for glow-from-within color. Doubles-up for more concentrated contouring." Sounds intense.

They also state the blush’s "weightless micro-powders keep colour natural and true."

To Purr About:
- cute compact (stays closed using a magnet) with a large mirror
- brush is genius - allowing a large coverage area, but taking up little space
- blush powder is very light
- resulting look is very natural

Claws Out:
- compact is a bit large

Final Comments:
I love this blush – it gives you that pretty glow with a hint of sparkle. It’s definitely a bit clunky to carry around in my purse, but the resulting colour is very natural, sheer and pretty. It’s definitely part of my make-up regime now.

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: esteelauder.com

Want to try out Skin MD Natural for free?

UPDATE: Thanks for your interest everyone! I have more than enough responses and am no longer accepting any more emails for this contest/program.

Are you interested in trying a product that acts as a protective lotion from chemicals and irritants, all while moisturizing your skin?

I reviewed the SkinMD Natural lotion Skin back in May 2007 (read the review here). Now SkinMD Natural is doing a field trial of their great moisturizer and the wanted to invite a few Cinnamon Kitten readers to join in!

Skin MD Natural is looking for both men and women who suffer from any kind of skin problems (dry, aged, eczema, etc). All you have to do is use Skin MD Natural for a month and keep them posted with updates on your progress, opinion on the product, honest feedback, and even photo results, if you wish.

You can get more details about the product by checking out the SkinMD Natural site (www.skinMDNatural.com).

If you're interested in receiving a bottle of SkinMD Natural to try, please email me at cinnamonkitten@gmail.com and let me know why you want to test/review this product.

I only have a limited supply, so will pick the most "deserving" answers to send a bottle to. Please only request a bottle if you're serious and will commit to emailing your opinions and reviews to Skin MD Natural (I'll provide all the details if you're chosen).

NEW Product: Benefit Eye Candy

Brand: Benefit

Name: Eye Candy
Price: $58 USD

Realizing that no amount of face makeup can make you look bright and perky if your eyes give you away, Benefit has created a great little kit to help "fake" that bright-eyed and ready to take on the world look, even if you're really feeling more like you need an extra 5 hours of sleep. Limited Edition. $64 value.

Product Notes:
Kit includes:
- eye bright, 1.4 g / 0.05 oz - a "nap in a stick" lining pencil

- eyecon, 14 g / 0.50 oz - brightening eye cream

- lyin' eyes in shade 02, 1 ml / 0.03 fl oz - concealing wand

image: benefitcosmetics.com

NEW Product Line: MAC A Mei

"A Taiwanese pop sensation, the yin-yang of her personality are celebrated in this iconic signature colour collection. Bold for her rocker side. Low-key and neutral for those soft pop moods. This is A Mei, in all her shades - up close and personal." (description from MAC site)

Although vibrant and playful, with a really cute signature package, I think I'm going to pass on this collection. There are so many MAC collections out there right now that I can't afford them all and so I have to be a little pickier (MAC N Collection, here I come!)


Eye Shadow Palette, $40 CAD
3 shades of Eye Shadow in a black compact featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei's native Taiwan embroidered onto a plaque insert. Each colourwave in the collection has its own colour signature.

- Neutral Eyes: red/yellow colour wave
- Bold: blue/fuchsia colour wavea light shell pink

MAC for A Mei Lipstick, $16.50 CAD
Limited edition Lipstick featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei's native Taiwan screened onto the case.

- Siss (satin): muted golden beige
- Ruby Woo (matte): vivid blush red

MAC for A Mei Lipglass, $16.50 CAD

Limited edition Lipglass featuring the traditional needlework pattern of A Mei's native Taiwan screened onto the cap.
- She's a Star (frost): lustre-shined light neutral gold

- Love Rules (frost): fuchsia with white sparkle pearl

images: maccosmetics.com

Product Review: Sephora Eyebrow Trimmer / Brush

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: Sephora
Name: Eyebrow Trimmer / Brush
Approx. Price: $22 CAD

Cinnamon Kitten introduced me to this product. My first thought was "that seems totally unnecessary", but after trying them I was hooked. Maybe I’m just clumsy, but I have definitely made mistakes while trimming my brows.

What is this product exactly and what does it do? As Sephora describes "Brow scissors with a genius comb attachment, that acts as a guide to prevent over trimming."

To Purr About:
- the comb can be removed for use as trimming scissors
- simple to use
- definitely reduces the probability of over trimming the eyebrows

Claws Out:
- none really - if I HAD to come up with one suggestion it would be for the handles to be foldable to make them even more compact, but that is probably overkill

Final Comments:
Although I would not call this a complete necessity, I love them! I normally would think not to pack them in my overnight bag, but since I always carry trimming scissors in my bag for emergencies and since they convert to trimming scissors it just makes sense. Just remember not to take it with your carry-on luggage!

This product takes away that percentage for human error in a simple, but effective manner and makes brow trimming easy and quick.

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: sephora.com

NEW Product Line: MAC N Collection/Colour

"Seductive and ripe for scandal. A colour collection daringly stripped-down, voluptuously finished, with everything you could possibly need to play up the nakedness of your look. Think of it as naked - with coverage." (description from MAC site)

Ok, now THIS is a MAC collection I can get into! Of the 3 latest MAC lines, this is my favourite and I'm definitely going to be buying a few things to try. The colours are subtle, but look very rich and I think would work well with a variety of skintones. I can't wait to see this collection in person!

Lipstick, 3 g/0.1 oz, $16.50 CAD
Colour plus texture for the lips. What made MAC famous.
- 1N (glaze): light frosted gold with pink pearl
- 2N (lustre): creamy light pink
- 3N (lustre): milky pastel pink
- 4N (lustre): mid-tone creamy brown
- 5N (lustre): plummy sheer brown

Tinted Lipglass, 4.8 g/0.17 oz, $16.50 CAD
A unique lip gloss that can create a high gloss, glass-like finish or a subtle sheen. 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 contains Jojoba Oil to help soften and condition the lips. Packaged in a convenient bottle with a sponge tip applicator that provides a quick, smooth, even application.
- 1N (cream): creamy white tan
- 2N (cream): creamy neutral yellow pink
- 3N (cream): neutral brown with gold and pink
- 4N (frost): light chocolate brown with red pearl

Cremestick Liner, 0.25 g/0.009 oz, $16.50 CAD
A creamy, highly pigmented, retractable lip liner. Lightweight and smooth to apply, very long-lasting. Use as outline or as a fill. Helps prevent feathering and bleeding.
- Creamola: low-down tan
- Sublime Culture: pink/caramel fusion

Eye Shadow, 1.5 g/0.05 oz, $16.50 CAD
Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well.
- Nanogold (lustre): sheer yellow beige with pink pearl
- Modest Tone (satin): neutral dirty tan
- Neutral Pink (satin): dirty mid-tone blue pink
- Rich Flesh (matte): neutral warm brown
- Remotely Grey (satin): dirty grey brown
- Dark Edge (satin): dirty chocolate brown

Paint Pot, 5 g/0.17 fl oz, $20 CAD
A highly pigmented eye colour that goes on creamy but dries to an intense, vibrant finish. The next generation of a popular MAC formula, Paint Pots maintains all the intense traits of its inspiration. Long-wearing, colourfast, creates seamless coverage without weight or caking. Blends smoothing over eyelids. Cream-based, can be mixed with MAC shadows and liners.
- Groundwork (satin): mid-tone neutral taupe
- Quite Natural (cream): dirty chocolate brown
- Soft Ochre (cream): yellow beige

Technakohl Liner, 0.35 g/0.012 oz, $17.50 CAD
A mechanical pencil-style liner. In formula, soft and creamy, with an intense rich colour deposit. Blends on application, dries quickly to a long-wear, non-smudge finish.
- Graphblack: richest graphic black
- Brownborder: deep chocolate brown

Plush Lash, $13 CAD
A mascara formulated to instantly plump up lashes for extreme voluptuous effect. Builds volume smoothly and evenly from root to tip. Fluid formula lightly coats lashes one layer at a time without smearing, smudging or clumping. Goes on via specially patented wand with a v-shaped groove that prunes the bristles on one side while leaving the other side full and lush.
- Plushblack: black

Nail Lacquer, $12 CAD
High gloss formula. Provides no-streak, no-chip finish. Contains conditioners and UV protection.
- N Colour (cream): creamy beige
- Naturally Rich (cream): milk chocolate
- Demi-Blanc (frost): gold beige with green pearl

images: maccosmetics.com

NEW Product Line: MAC N Collection/Face

"For the gal who knows the power of artifice but has the confidence to strip it all away, this is the secret. Six shades of Mineralize Skinfinish together with two application brushes, enhanced by the powerful benefits of Charged Water. " (description from MAC site)

Hmmm, I'm not sure if I buy into this "Charged Water" thing. Don't get me wrong, I'm a HUGE fan of MAC, but this is another collection I think I'll be passing on. Some of the descriptions are just a little too "miracle cure-all" for me to believe without doing some research first.

Mineralize Skinfinish/Natural, 10 g/0.35 oz, $29.50 CAD
A domed face powder with minerals, slowly baked to provide a dimensional, yet natural-matte finish. Provides perfect low coverage. Use to set and fix foundation or as a touch-up throughout the day.

- Medium: soft creamy beige

- Medium Dark: caramel beige

- Dark: deep caramel

- Light Medium: pale golden beige

- Medium Plus: tan beige

- Medium Deep: rich golden tan

Mineralize Skinfinish, $29.50 CAD
A velvet-soft powder with high-frost metallic finish. Smoothes on. Adds buffed-up highlights to cheeks and brows, or an overall polish to the face.

- Warmed: golden bronze with light yellow gold veining
- Light Flush: soft pastel pink with deep bronze veining

Charged Water/Renewal Defense, 100 ml/3.4 fl oz, $23 CAD

Charged water, fused with vital ions from rhodochrosite to create a protective hydrating mist to help defend the skin from environmental aggression. Pack with anti-oxidants, its peach-toned hue is imparted by the rhodochrosite itself. Its aroma is a gentle blend of grapefruit mandarin.

Charged Water/Revitalizing Energy, 100 ml/3.4 fl oz, $23 CAD
Charged water, fused with vital ions from a diamond and instilled with a spirit-lifting therapeutic aroma, then delivered to the skin in a soothing, hydrating mist. On application, it makes the skin feel clea, sparkling, pure and energized. Its aroma is a blend of green tea and citrus.

134 Large Powder Brush, $62.50 CAD

An extra large paddle-shaped brush featuring a fluffed, rounded tip. Of soft natural fibre, this brush is specially designed to provide flawless application of powder to face or body.

187 Duo Fibre Brush, 18 cm, $50.50 CAD

A large full circular brush used for lightweight application and blending of face powder or pigments. Use to create soft layers or add textures. Made from a soft blend of goat and synthetic fibres.

images: maccosmetics.com

Product Review: Herbal Essences All That Shine

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Herbal Essences
Name: All That Shine
Approx. Price: $10 CAD

Herbal Essences All That Shine is a clear shine booster that promises up to six weeks of healthy-looking, shiny hair. Recommended for almost all types of hair (blondes, brunettes, redheads, natural, colour-treated, highlighted, permed and relaxed), there are a few restrictions but are well-outlined on the package.

Although it's a little more complicated than shampooing your hair, the procedure reminds me a little of hair colouring (you get the gloves, the mixture, the application, the wait, the rinse, the conditioner), except that the product is completely clear.

To Purr About:
- nice "fruity" scent
- easy to follow instructions and easy to apply

- my hair felt softer than usual after drying

- I like that it's suitable for all hair types

Claws Out:
- I didn't notice really any difference in the shine quotiet to my hair (but please see comments below)

Final Comments:
Ok, to be honest, my hair is pretty shiny to begin with (I have that dark, shiny, Asian black hair). I don't colour my hair, straighten it, use much styling product or styling tools, so I don't think it did as much for me as for someone who might have not-so-shiny hair.

That being said, a friend of mine who both colours and straightens her hair regularly bought a bottle a couple of weeks ago and has been raving about how much shinier her hair is this past week after using All That Shine. She has definitely noticed a change in her hair, even with the use of styling products, which often "dull" her hair.

So, I think this is one product that will definitely depend on your own hair (and we know how unique everyone can be in THAT department!). Of course, it's hard to argue with a product that promises shiny hair for over a month, so it may be worth a try if you're looking for that extra light-reflecting boost!

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: clairol.com

Product Review: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Aveeno
Name: Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Size: 227 mL
Approx. Price: ranges from $10-$15 CAD depending on size

I must admit that I've never tried any Aveeno products before so I wasn't sure what to expect when I used this moisturizer for the first time. But, as with most girls, I'm always on the lookout for the "next best thing" to make my skin softer. I'm pretty picky when it comes to lotions and only use products that are quick-absorbing, non-greasy and extra-moisturizing. Winter definitely makes my skin drier than usual and we've been having some severe wind chills in Toronto lately, so I always take this opportunity to test drive new lotions.

The description on the bottle of lotion says that this lotion is:
- dermatologist recommended
- made with natural colloidal oatmeal
- clinically proven to relieve dry skin
- moisturizes for 24 hours
- fragrance free

To Purr About:
- completely fragrance free
- very light to apply and absorbed instantly into my skin
- my skin felt very moisturized
- a day later, my skin was still feeling very hydrated

Claws Out:
- slightly higher in price compared to other body lotions (ie. Jergens, Curel, etc)
- skin was left feeling very moisturized, but wasn't "silky"

Final Comments:
I've been using this lotion once a day for the past week and have definitely noticed a change in my skin texture. My arms and legs feel more moisturized and not dry at all. The only thing is that my skin doesn't feel "silky soft" like some lotions make it, but the effects of the Aveeno lotion definitely lasts much longer than other lotions I've tried.

The first time I used the lotion, I applied it in the evening and the next morning, I went to take a shower and my skin felt so nice, I figured the lotion was still sitting "on top" of my skin. However, nothing washed off in the shower and my skin still felt really hydrated afterwards. I'm definitely going to keep using this lotion. I'm also going to try the Aveeno Creamy Moisturizing Oil, which apparently leaves skin feeling "silky soft", albeit with a almond-like fragrance.

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: aveeno.com

NEW Product: E.L.F. Minerals Starter Kit

Brand: E.L.F.

Name: Minerals Starter Kit
Price: $20 USD

As most Cinnamon Kitten readers know, I'm a big fan of E.L.F. makeup, mainly because they offer great quality cosmetics (and now skincare) for extremely affordable prices. And for those of us who can't get to a nearby Target (ie. Canadians), their great website ships to us!

So, with the new trend of mineral makeup taking everyone by storm, E.L.F. has also decided to get in on the act and have launched their own Minerals line.

As with many other brands that offer mineral makeup, E.L.F. is selling Starter Kits.

Product Notes:
Starter Kit includes:
- Mineral Foundation SPF 15
- Mineral Concealer SPF 15
- Mineral Blush
- Total Face Brush
- Blush Brush
- Canvas Case
- all mineral makeup is 100% mineral based with no parabens, no preservatives and no chemical dyes

Kits Available:
- Fair Starter Kit: for porcelain skin and neutral undertones
- Light Starter Kit: for light skin and golden undertones
- Warm Starter Kit: for medium skin and neutral undertones
- Dark Starter Kit: for tan skin and golden undertones
- Deep Starter Kit: for dark skin and neutral undertones

image: eyeslipsface.com

Product Review: E.L.F. Nail Polish

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: E.L.F.
Name: Nail Polish
Size: 0.35 oz / 10 ml
Approx. Price: $1 USD

Shades Tried:
- Dark Red

I was a little skeptical about E.L.F.'s new nail polish. It promises a "colour-lock formula and chip-resistant shield gives long lasting nail colour with high shine. The aerodynamic bristle design glides colour on flaslessly, while the quick dry formula gives perfect application every time."

I purchased 2 polishes (it's $1 for a full-size bottle - how can you not like that???), and decided to give the darker shade a try first since it would be easier to notice chips and streaks faster.

To Purr About:
- cute bottle design (yes, there's a plastic "drippy" piece on the bottle)
- thin formula glides on quickly and easily
- metal ball inside to help keep polish from clumping (I think this is a plus as I've bought other brands that don't have this ball inside the bottle)
- dries very quickly
- almost no streaking
- I applied 2 coats and skipped the top coat to see what would happen. I didn't see any chip until the 4th day of wearing and it was a tiny little chip on my index fingernail (keep in mind, between my job, surfing the internet and this blog, I type A LOT)
- the colour was really nice and dark, pretty true to what I saw in the picture
- you can't beat the price

Claws Out:
- the plastic "drippy" piece is cute, but completely useless
- I found that because the polish is a little "thin", even after 2 layers, the colour wasn't as deep as I preferred (it matched the website image better after 3 coats)
- the 2nd time I applied this polish, Toronto was in the midst of a deep freeze and the polish chipped the morning after application after my commute to work, so I think it's more brittle in colder weather

Final Comments:
No matter how great this polish sounds, it's still no match for OPI, but for $1, and for the variety of colours (E.L.F.) currently has 18 different polish shades), you really can't go wrong. If you're the type who likes to change their nail polish on a weekly basis (or more) and like me, can't afford to get a manicure all the time, this is a great, inexpensive way to have some fun and add some colour to your nails. Not the best polish in the world, but I gave it a good rating because it's a great value and much better quality than all other "discount" polishes I've tried in the past.

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: eyeslipsface.com

NEW Product: Benefit Thrrrob

Brand: Benefit

Name: Thrrrob

Size: 12 g / 0.42 oz

Approx. Price: $28

After becoming a fan of Benefit 10, I'm dying to try out some of their other powders, like Dandelion and Dallas), but now they've added another new product to this lineup to make my choice even harder!

Product Notes:
- vibrant pink powder simulates the natural flush you get when your heart races

- comes with soft, natural-bristle brush

image: benefitcosmetics.com

NEW Product: Sephora Glitter Spray

Brand: Sephora

Name: Glitter Spray
Approx. Price: $8 USD / $11.35 CAD

Even though the holidays are over, it's still nice to have some great beauty options for parties. And if you can't wear something sparkly at parties, when can you?

Product Notes:
- a shimmering spray for body and/or hair
- to remove glitter from skin, just use water; to remove from hair, just brush out

Colours Available:
- Gold Glitter Spray
- Silver Glitter Spray

image: sephora.com