Product Review: Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Lip Plumping Treatment

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Neutrogena
Name: Ageless Intensives Lip Plumping Treatment
Size: 9 ml
Price: approx. $20 USD

As many of you know, I'm a huge fan of Neutrogena products. They always seem to delivery what they promise. But I'm putting this to the test with the Lip Plumping Treatment.

"With age, lips lose volume, definition and colour while developing wrinkles and dilated pores, adding years to your face. In as little as two weeks, new Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Lip Plumping Treatment can give you a more youthful-looking mouth. This daily treatment includes oligopeptide to add lip-plumping moisture to help smooth lines, boost volume and rejuvenate lips while broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen provides protection against sundamage. With daily application, the result is lips that are noticeably fuller, smoother and younger-looking." (from the Neutrogena site)

To Purr About:
- made my lips softer and smoother, even when I used them on really dry lips
- noticed a slight plumping, especially in the middle of my lips (top and bottom)
- nice, light glossy so I could wear the product by itself

Claws Out:
- did not notice the small lines on my lips disappearing
- i'm not a big fan of the light, cool feeling that many lip plumpers cause (although, it's better than some which make lips numb)
- didn't care for the application, which is a pump

Final Comments:
I'm not a big believer of any products that promise "lip plumper" action, but this one is better than most. It leaves a slight cooling feeling, but not the usual tingling, numbness that others cause. I did see a slight plumping action, but the tiny lines weren't that minimized. I didn't use it constantly for 2 weeks straight, so maybe that's why I didn't see the best results. It's nice and clear, and leaves a light shine. I also appreciate the sunscreen. One thing I didn't like about this product was the pump. It just makes it more difficult to apply often since I left it in my bathroom for days before I remembered to apply it again.

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.

Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten.

image: target.com

$30 off a pair of Whoogas

I know I almost never blog about anything other than beauty products, but I received a really nice email the other day from someone at Whooga and had to pass this deal along to you.

What's a Whooga? Well, they're a brand of super-soft, sheepskin boots.


Actually, according to their site: "'Ugg boots' is a term which has been used for over 100 years in Australia to describe a style of sheepskin boot. It’s important to understand this because Whooga boots are a brand of sheepskin boots. We utilize uniquely thick merino sheepskins, brand the boots proudly with our labels and ship direct from our factories to avoid additional overheads."

You can check out Whooga's for yourself on their site.

And, as a gift for Cinnamon Kitten readers, I've been given $30 for you to spend on their website!

If you make a purchase on http://www.whooga.com/ in the next month, enter the code CINNAMONKI into the code box when checking out and you will get $30 off your order.

Full Disclosure:
I have not been given any products or compensation for this offer.
I will not receive any commissions on any sales made using this bonus code.

Full disclosure...starting now

Hi gang,

The reason I started Cinnamon Kitten a couple of years ago was because I was tired of deciding what to buy based on fancy TV commercials and slick magazine ads. I lov interacting with fellow beauty enthusiasts and finding out about new products and getting to know your opinions and favourites as well as sharing my own.

I've never been paid to do a review, although I have received samples of products to review. I've never been anything other than honest in my reviews, and before I even any free samples, I always inform the companies that although I appreciate the samples, my reviews will always be fair and honest.

Well, apparently, now I can get in trouble for posting reviews!

Under "new guidelines, expected to be approved late this summer with possible modifications, would clarify that the agency can go after bloggers - as well as the companies that compensate them - for any false claims or failure to disclose conflicts of interest. It would be the first time the FTC tries to patrol systematically what bloggers say and do online. The common practice of posting a graphical ad or a link to an online retailer - and getting commissions for any sales from it - would be enough to trigger oversight." (quote from Canoe - read the full article here.)

Ugh.

Now, as I said before, I have NEVER been paid to do a review and would never agree to write a positive review for a product in return for money or free stuff. I started this blog so that we could all get honest opinions about the beauty products we buy and I would never jeopardize my relationship with my readers in exchange for a free sample!

I do have a few paid ads on the sidebars of my blog, but I'm only paid for the ad itself and do not receive any commissions from any purchases my readers make if they click through these ads. This blog is just a hobby for me and the money I make from these ads is basically enough for me to run a few contests for my readers and nothing else. Much as I would love to be one of those bloggers that the article mentioned above who earns thousands of dollars from their blogs a month and does it full time, this definitely isn't the case here!

In order to further encourage transparency, I will now add a new line into each review, revealing if the item was paid for or given free to Cinnamon Kitten to review.

I love my readers and you are the reason I write this blog! I am definitely not doing this for the money or the free products, but for the chance for all of us to make better buying decisions.

What do you think of this new blogging crackdown?

Spring Giveaway: Prize Pack 3

Here's the third prize up for grabs in the Cinnamon Kitten Spring Giveaway! (For details on how to enter, check out the contest detail blog post here).

"Summer Fun"
I'm a huge supporter of the "fake tan" products because I'd rather get my healthy glow from a bottle than the sun. Just no shades of orange, ok?

You'll get:
- Jergens Natural Glow Daily Facial Moisturizer in Medium to Tan Skin Tones
- Jergens Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer in Medium to Tan Skin Tones

NEW Product Line: MAC A Rose Romance

"From cheeks that blush, just a pinch, to soft rosebud shades and refreshingly fragrant fixes, it's a summer rose romance. Rosy pinks, faithful fuchsias and forget-me-not blues...a limited-edition collection of colours, to pick, peruse and ponder. " (description from MAC site)

I love this collection. The soft, flirty shades work well on my skin tone and are perfect for more subtle daytime looks and can definitely work well in the office.


Eye Shadow, 1.5 g / 0.05 oz, $17.00 CAD
Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well.
- Shadowy Lady (matte): darkly veiled plum
- Creme de Violet (frost): vivid pinkish-violet flecked with gold shimmer
- Silverthorn (frost): mid-tone grey with silver pearl
- Et tu, Bouquet (frost): frosted pale pink gold
- Of Summer (satin): frosted light dirty mauve

Pigment, 7.5 g / 0.26 oz, $23.50 CAD
Pigment is 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 does not streak or cake, is easy to blend and long-lasting.
- Mutiny: clean sky blue with gold pearl
- Circa Plum (frost): frosty dirty mid-tone lavender

Splashproof Lash, 7 g / 0.24 oz, $14.00 CAD
Waterproof, long-wearing, length-defining, lash-thickening, and formulated to last. Won't clump, flake, or blot! Takes the splash! Go swim!
- Blacksplash


Lipstick, 3 g / 0.1 us oz, $16.50 CAD
Colour plus texture for the lips.
- Odyssey (frost): spiked-up plum
- A Rose Romance: mid-tone pink with gold pearl
- Way to Love (lustre): creamy light yellow pink

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 can impart subtle or dramatic colour. It contains Jojoba Oil to help soften and condition the lips. Tinted Lipglass is packaged in a convenient bottle with a sponge tip applicator that provides a quick, smooth, even application.
- Magnetique (frost): frosted violet fuchsia
- Steal My Heart (frost): sheer bright pink with multi-dimensional pearl
- Virgin Kiss (frost): sheer pale pink with multidimensional pearl

See Thru Lip Colour, 9 g / 0.31 us oz, $32.00 CAD
A lightweight gel lip stain that deposits long-wearing transparent colour on the lips. Provides an ultra sheer look and comfortable application. Makes lips look "just kissed."
- Secret Crush (translucent): sheer berry red
- Tender Tryst (translucent frost): sheer pearly plum
- Loving Touch (translucent frost): sheer pearly light pink


Rose Romance Beauty Powder, 10 g / 0.35 us oz, $26.50 CAD
From the Rose Romance collection, a rose-embossed, micronized face powder that brightens and subtly highlights the skin. Ultra-light, silky and luxurious. Limited edition.
- Blush of Youth: clean pink with gold pearl
- Summer Rose: soft violet pink with pearl

Just a Pinch Gel Blush, $22.50 CAD
A creamy gel blush that delivers the perfect pinch of colour while remaining transparently sheer. Specially enriched formula helps keep the skin moist and fresh looking. To build colour on lips or cheeks, layer for the ultimate rosy look.
- Just a Pinch (translucent): sheer red pink tinge

Fix + Rose, 100 ml / 3.4 fl oz, $20.00 CAD
Our popular Fix + enhanced with rose water. Formulated from spring water, rich in added minerals, this aromatic mist refreshes, hydrate, and conditions the skin while acting as a perfect finishing fix for makeup. Smells great, too. Limited edition.


Nail Lacquer, 10 ml / 0.34 us oz, $13.00 CAD
Revolutionary new high gloss formula. Provides no-streak/no-chip finish. Contains conditioners and UV protection.
- Love & Friendship (cream): creamy dirty mid-tone lavender

Creations Hue: Dejarose, 20 ml / 0.68 us fl oz, $28.50 CAD
Intriguingly romantic: a real scent paradox, Bulgarian, Turkish and Tea Roses mingle with orchid, lily, jasmine and peony to create a rosy retro-scent that slips to sex the summer senses, a finale of light and dark woods, patchouli and amber crystal.

images: maccosmetics.com

NEW Product: Hawaiian Tropic Summer 2009

Brand: Hawaiian Tropic
Name: Aloha Kiss Island Berry Lip Gloss
Size: n/a
Price: approx. $6 CAD

The warm weather is FINALLY here! So it's time to make sure my sun protection protects are fully stocked up!

The Moisture Burst formula enhances flavor and gives your lips a smoother feel. Protect your lips with SPF 20 and keep them soft with the Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter and Vitamins A, C & E enriched formulas. Also great for often forgotten spots like your nose, ears and cheeks!

image: http://www.hawaiiantropic.com

Gift Idea: Mustang Blue

Brand: Mustang
Name: Blue
Size & Price:
- 1.0 oz / 30 ml Cologne Spray, $20 USD
- 1.7 oz / 50 ml Cologne Spray, $25 USD
- 3.4 oz / 100 ml Cologne Spray, $32 USD
- 3.4 oz / 100 ml After Shave, $25 USD

I can't believe this product! I may have to buy it to give to my hubby just because! The Mustang is one of my dream cars and the colour blue is my favourite colour of all time, so imagine how much I love the new fragrance from Estee Lauder for men - Mustang Blue!

Hey, Father's Day is coming up! This would be the perfect gift if your dad (or hubby) is a car enthusiast!

From the press release:
"Infused with mint and basil to boost the tantalizing top. At the heart is an aromatic exhale of geranium, sage and artemisia. A cool and crisp intensity radiates from a high-spirited essence of pine and cedarleaf, while the perfect freshness that features spicy, wet cardamom, clove leaf and cypress transports the senses through an intriguing voyage. The sensual masculine back infuses rugged sandalwood with an intoxicating earthy blend of hay and patchouli to create a super sexy, masculine scent."

image: press release

NEW Product Line: NARS Limited Edition Vintage Nail Polish Collection

In honour of NARS’ 15th anniversary, François Nars, Founder and Creative Director of NARS, has resurrected some of the brand’s long-lost nail polishes from the archives.

For a limited time, experience the signature high-gloss, extra durable formula in an assortment of 5 vibrant nail hues.

Price: $16 USD each


Blue Lagoon (originally launched in 2001) – an iridescent powder blue

Cha Cha Cha (originally launched in 2001) – a semi-sheer tangerine with gold reflections

Hunger (originally launched in 2001) – a hot orange red

Tallulah (originally launched in 1998) – A slightly moody and entirely elegant shade of rich grape

Zizi (originally launched in 1999) – clear with peach and gold glitter polish

images: press kit

Biotherm Homme Bonus Time at Sears and Sears.ca

Canadians - It's Biotherm Bonus Time, but this time, it's a gift for the guys!

Retailer: Sears
Minimum amount you need to spend: $40 CAD (before taxes) on Biotherm Homme products
Duration: June 6 - 12, 2009


What You Get:
- Aquapower, 30 ml
- Cleansing Gel, 40 ml
- Shaving Foam, 50 ml
- Aquafitness Shower Gel, 30 ml

If you want to get this gift online at Sears.ca, click here

image: e-flyer

Spring Giveaway: Prize Pack 2

Here's the second prize up for grabs in the Cinnamon Kitten Spring Giveaway! (For details on how to enter, check out the contest detail blog post here).

"The Eyes Have It"
I've put together some an awesome package of some great eye products!

You'll get:
- CoverGirl Eye Enhancers Eyeshadow in Turquoise Tempest
- ecoTools Bamboo Lash & Brow Groomer
- e.l.f. Brightening Eye Liner in Ash
- GOSH Trio Eye Shadow in Silver Fox
- Lise Watier 24 Hours Glam Mascara in Noir

Other Prizes:
- Prize Pack 1

Product Review: tarte emphasEYES high definition eye pencil

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: tarte
Name: emphasEYES high definition eye pencil
Size: n/a
Price: $23 CAD / $18 USD

Shade Tried: charcoal

Part of the New Summer 09 shades, this eye pencil is:
- paraben free
- mineral oil free
- fragrance free
- dermatologist tested
- cruelty free

To Purr About:
- super thin eye pencil gives a really precise line and doesn't require sharpening
- long-lasting power
- doesn't smudge or fade

Claws Out:
- colour is very pale
- a little expensive

Final Comments:
I like how thin this eye pencil - it's really easy to get a thin, defined, very precise line, and the pencil never really needs sharpening because of it's thinness. The colour lasts all day, but it's very light, so I have to apply it many more times than normal in order to get any visible colour. It's also a little pricier than most of my usual eye liners.

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.

ATTN: American Max Factor fans

Canadians have already been missing Max Factor as the brand was discontinued here awhile ago, but if you're in the USA and you're a fan of Max Factor, you better stock up on your favourites now (or find a friend overseas).

Procter & Gamble, which owns the Max Factor brand, announced yesterday (June 4) that it plans to phase out US distribution of the century-old makeup brand, with all sales ending early 2010.

Max Factor will continue to be sold overseas, where its sales have been strongest.

Product Review: Secret Flawless Touch

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Secret
Name: Flawless Touch with Olay
Size: 45 g
Price: $4.99 CAD

Summertime is probably the most important season to have a good reliable antiperspirant/deodorant.

"What makes it Flawless Touch:
- strong protection
- goes on clear
- smooth and lightweight
- Olay skin conditioners
- continually refreshing fragrances"

To Purr About:
- nice fresh scent that isn’t too strong
- scent lasted all day
- went on clear – didn’t notice any white marks on my clothes
- didn’t make my skin feel chalky or dry

Claws Out:
- not a fan of the gel like texture as I don’t feel I’m able to control the amount I apply as much (I got the hang of it after a while though)

Final Comments:
I’ve been using the traditional Secret stick for years now, but always found it left my skin feeling dried out and flaky, so I was really interested in this new one with Olay skin conditioners.

After a week of continual use I have to say I’m pretty impressed with Flawless Touch. At the end of the day my underarm area didn’t feel as dried out as it does with the traditional Secret formula. Definitely worth the upgrade from the traditional antiperspirant.

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: press kit

Spring Giveaway: Prize Pack 1

Here's the first prize up for grabs in the Cinnamon Kitten Spring Giveaway! (For details on how to enter, check out the contest detail blog post here).

Ms. Pedicure "The Foot SpAHH"
6 must-haves to refresh legs and feet in this spa-like pedicure essentials set. Ms. Pedicure is a fabulous set of girly goodies that's easy to use and affordable. Housed in a cute, durable little tote bag, this pedicure set will have your feet ready for all those cute strappy sandals and open-toed shoes that the warm weather brings.

Set includes:
- pumice stone
- exfoliating foot scrub, 6 oz
- moisture-rich foot lotion, 6 oz
- invigorating foot & leg rub, 2 oz
- massager
- reusable zippered tote bag

Product Review: Quo Minerals Matter Blush

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Quo
Name: Minerals Matter Blush
Size: 21 g
Price: $20 CAD

Shade Tried: Pink Petal

Made with natural minerals, this blush has other healthy ingredients, including Vitamins E and C. "Packed in a unique spring-loaded compact, simply press the end and the "secret" drawer will open to reveal velvety smooth blush inside.

Available in 3 shades: Pink Petals, Peach Blossom and Whisper Dawn.

To Purr About:
- never got tired of the spring-loaded blush case
- light pink blush had a hint of shimmer, was great for spring and really gave my skin a healthy flush
- compact included a handy mirror
- very light powder, didn't go on heavy, easy to use

Claws Out:
- compact is really bulky and not something you would bring in your bag with you
- would have loved having a brush with this product.

Final Comments:
The blush is very light and easy to use and did give my skin that healthy "glow" that blushes always promise. The novelty of the spring-loaded compact never wear out, but the "compact" is so big, it's kind of unwieldy. Also, with such a huge compact, you'd think that they would have found some spare room to include a small brush to make touch-ups easier.

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.