NEW Product: NARS Eyeliner Stylo

Brand:NARS
Name: Eyeliner Stylo
Size: n/a
Price: approx. $27 USD

"Boasting the ergonomically friendly ease of a felt-tip pen, and the refined pigment quality that NARS is known for, the Eyeliner Stylo is indispensable for looks both elegant and extreme. The chic, polished black packaging and ultra-fine, marker-style tip makes the Eyeliner Stylo both highly portable and foolproof. The tip is firm but flexible, offering an innovative level of control. That means a precise, even line has never been easier to achieve. One stroke of the quick-drying, waterproof formula is all you need to create immediate femme fatale eyes." from the press release


Shades:
- Blue Bayou
- Nabucco
- Nuits Blanches

image: press release

NEW Product Line: Limoneira Lifestyles

Limoneira Lifestyles is a celebration of natural, organic products from the nation's largest avocado and lemon grower, Limoneira Company. Their line of natural avocado and lemon cleansers and moisturizers contain certified organic extracts and a compound that's a natural promoter of skin metabolism. All are dermatologist tested and approved.

Established in 1893 with ranch headquarters in Santa Paula, California, Limoneira Company uses a sustainable approach to agriculture with water conservation practices, soil enrichment, green materials recycling and solar powered facilities (producing 2 megawatts of energy). It was only natural that it would incorporate the same sustainable philosophy used to grow its crops into producing its Limoneira Lifestyles skin care product line. (from the press release)

Lemon Balm Moisturizer, $18.95 USD
Acid-free skin softening formula using natural and organic ingredients centered around avocado, rosemary and lemon balm extracts. This is a daily-use formula that has a hint of lavender and camphor to help soothe and correct signs of dryness. For antioxidants, it includes the epigallocatechins (ECGC) from green tea in combination with vitamin C.

Lavender Avocado Cleanser, $10.95 USD
A preservative-free, ultra mild cleanser from all natural sustainable plant-derived sources including avocado extracts. Ideal for sensitive skin but also works well in every day make up removal.

Avocado Mask, $11.95 USD
Use once a week (twice per week if skin is very oily). A pore-tightening, redness-reducing mask. Soothes, tones and brightens. Sponge away with warm water. Skin will feel soft and resilient.

Lemon Balm Mist, $10.95 USD
For instant hydration. Alcohol-free and acid-free. A hint of essential oils will lift your spirits and brighten skin tone, while natural antioxidants and avocado extracts protect skin from the elements. Won't stain, leaves no tacky residues and is hypoallergenic.

image: press release

The 2009 Natural Health Beauty Awards

With the help of 2,008 readers, who voted at www.naturalhealthmag.com for their favorite products and a group of esteemed dermatologist, Natural Health has selected 25 of the year’s best beauty products for their 5th Annual Beauty Awards.

I love that there's an award for this type of beauty product. If you're looking for a more natural beauty regime - here's a great place to get started on your shopping list!

FACIAL CLEANSER
Olay Definity Penetrating Mousse Cleanser

FACIAL EXFOLIATOR
Skin 2 Skin Oatmeal & Pomegranate Scrub

EYE CREAM
Yes to Cucumbers Eye Love Cucumbers Soothing Eye Gel

FACIAL MOISTURIZER
AVEENO Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturizer

FACIAL NIGHT CREAM
Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Night Health Bedtime Face Cream

ANTI-AGING FACIAL TREATMENT
Aveda Green Science Firming Face Creme

LIP BALM
Burt’s Bees Sun Protecting Lip Balm SPF 8 with Passionfruit

HAND CREAM
The Healing Seed Virgin Organic Hempseed Oil Hand Cream

BODY MOISTURIZER
Avalon Organics Grapefruit & Geranium Hand & Body Lotion

BODY SCRUB
Aura Cacia Nourishing Body Polishes Fair Trade Certified

SELF-TANNER
Pur Minerals Get a Little

BAR SOAP
Dove Go Fresh Burst Beauty Bar

BODY WASH
Nature’s Gate Pomegranate Sunflower Velvet Moisture Body Wash

SUN CARE
John Masters Organics SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen

SHAMPOO
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Shampoo

CONDITIONER
L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care Moisture Conditioner

HAIR COLOR
Natural Instincts Champagne Indulgence Collection

HAIR STYLING PRODUCT
Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Smooth Vitality Smoothing Crème

BLUSH
The Body Shop Nature’s Minerals Cheek Color

CONCEALER
Jane Iredale Zap & Hide

EYE SHADOW
Almay Pure Blends Eyeshadow

FOUNDATION
Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Liquid Foundation SPF 15

LIP COLOR
Aubrey Organics Natural Lips Sheer Tint

MASCARA
Kiehl’s Marvelous Mineral Mascara

NAIL POLISH
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color

Product Review: Venus Spa Breeze - Disposables

Reviewer: Suziesaurus
Brand: Gillette Venus
Name: Spa Breeze - Disposables
Size: n/a
Price: n/a

From the website: "The secret to an easy yet indulgent shave on the go? Try Venus Spa Breeze Disposables—the first disposable razors with built-in shave gel bars, combining the simplicity of Venus Breeze with the convenience of a disposable! Simply add water for skin-loving light lather and a smooth shave without the need for separate shave gel."

To Purr About:
- built-in shave gel bars are convenient
- scent of white tea is very soothing and not overpowering
- no slip handles allow for good grip

Claws Out:
- big packaging makes taking along for trips not so convenient
- a little dry on the lather side meaning not a great feeling shave

Final Comments:
For my recent trip to Chicago I brought along Gillette Venus disposable razors. I definitely loved the idea that I didn’t need to bring extra shaving gel as the razors come built in with shave gel bars.

The razors are definitely convenient, although I would have preferred slimmer packaging to take up less space in my toiletries bag. Also, I didn’t find the built-in shave gel bars very good. It was definitely dry and not a comfortable shave. In situations that require a close shave (like tropical destinations) I think I would actually rather bringing a small travel sized shave gel and my usual razor.

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: Gillettevenus.com

NEW Product Line: Estee Lauder 2009 Pink Ribbon Collection

This October, Estee Lauder will join in the battle to beat breast cancer by spreading awareness and raising funds for a cure. Estee Lauder will donate $100,000 in connection with its Canadian sales of the 2009 Pink Ribbon Collection to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Evelyn Lauder Lip Set, $30 CAD
Hand-picked by Evelyn Lauder, this lip collection includes a lipstick, lip gloss and lip pencil. The lipstick is housed in a smooth pink anodized case and the products will be packaged in a pink fabric-covered, mirrored lipstick holder case.


Elizabeth Hurley Lip Set, $30 CAD
With shades hand-picked by Elizabeth Hurley, this lip collection includes a lipstick, lip gloss and lip pencil. The lipstick is housed in a smooth pink anodized case and the products will be packaged in a pink fabric-covered, mirrored lipstick holder case.

Jeweled Pink Ribbon Pin, $18 CAD
A simple, elegant jewellery pin, covered in 20 deep pink crystals and packaged in a newly designed Pink Ribbon carton.

Double Sided Mirror Compact, $80 CAD
Exclusive to Hold Renfrew in Fall 2009, a gold, double-sided mirror compact featuring a subtle ribbon design on the cover. The mirror will be packaged in a pink suede pouch and gold set-up box. A pink sleeve will go over the top of the set-up box.

images: press kit

Lancome Bonus Online

Canadians - It's Lancome Bonus Time!

Retailer: lancome.ca
Minimum amount you need to spend: $45.00 CAD (before taxes)
Duration: while supplies last


What You Get:
- Renergie Microlift R.A.R.E. Superior Lifting Cream SPF 15 Sunscreen, 30 ml
- Renergie Microlift Neck R.A.R.E. Superior Lifting Neck Cream, 15 ml
- L'Absolu Rouge Advanced Replenishing & Reshaping Lipcolour Pro-Xylane in Rendez-Vous
- company with Colour Design Sensation Effects Eye Shadows in Positive, Kitten Heel, Guest List and Chic and Blush Subtil Powder Blush in Miel Glace
- Magnifique Deluxe Miniature EDP
- tote and matching cosmetic case

image: www.lancome.ca

Clinique Bonus Time at The Bay

Canadians - It's Clinique Bonus Time!

Retailer: The Bay
Minimum amount you need to spend: $26.50 CAD (before taxes)
Duration: until October 3, 2009



You get to choose your choice of ONE of TWO packages - pick either Pretty Days or Dressed-Up Nights

Pretty Days - What You Get:
- Superdefense Age Defense Moisturizer SPF 25
- Clarifying Lotion 2
- Different Lipstick in Rose Aglow
- Full Potential Lips Plump and Shine in Sugarplump
- High Impact Mascara in Black
- Colour Surge Eye Shadow Trio in Totally Neutral
- cosmetics bag

Pretty Days - What You Get:
- Super Rescue Antioxidant Night Moisturizer
- Clarifying Lotion 2
- Different Lipstick in Tenderheart
- Full Potential Lips Plump and Shine in Glamour-full
- High Impact Mascara in Black
- Colour Surge Eye Shadow Trio in Come Heather
- cosmetics bag

image: www.hbc.com

NEW Product Line: Quo Fall 2009 Collection

Just in time for the fall - Quo has released some lovely new shades to go along with the upcoming season's hottest trends.

Prêt-à-Porter Double Decker Palette, $25 CAD
This chic Double Decker palette is your perfect travel companion. With 5 corresponding shades you can be bright-eyed by day and sultry by evening. Each colour combination comes with a complimentary lipstick to complete your sophisticated look. Limited edition.
- Les Mauves : purple and pink hues
- Les Bleus : sapphire blues and accents of white
- Les Verts : vibrant greens and champagne tones
- Les Bronzes : metallic infused browns and a hint of pink

Eiffel Tower Lipstick, $15 CAD
Includes a lip gloss and corresponding liner concealed in the cap. Enriched with Vitamin E and contains moisturizing ingredients. Limited Edition
- Loire: nude
- Champagne: bare
- Toulouse: soft plum
- Montpellier: bronze
- Burgundy: Mocha
- Rhone: Sheer Pink

Miraculous Lash , $14 CAD
Defines and lengthens to create an intense lash look. The thick rubber wand maximizes application with minimal effort and curls lashes with every stroke. Enriched with Provitamin B5 to treat and thicken lashes.
- Inkjet: dramatic black
- Coffee Bean: coffee brown
- Aquamarine: cool blue

images: press kit

NEW Product: Annabelle Smudgeliner

Brand:Annabelle
Name: Smudgeliner
Size: 0.04 oz / 1.2 g
Price: approx. $8.50 CAD

Annabelle eyeliners are my staple eyeliner. They're soft, easy to apply, glide on smoothly and the colours are always vibrant.

Now, to make the smoky eye trend even easier, Annabelle has release 6 new Smudgeliner shades.

"With their superior long-lasting formula and rich colour pay-off, Annabelle Smudgeliners are a must-have to add depth to any look! Let them glide to create a defined line, or blend gently with the built-in smudger tip to achieve a smoky, sultry look." (description from the website)

Shades:
- Ohmygoth!
- Rich Chocolate
- Wired
- Electric Sapphire
- Purple Storm
- Cyber Jungle
- Wahine Blue
- Atomic Surf
- Sea Green
- Armour
- Limette
- Vortex Violet

image: www.annabellecosmetics.com

Spring Giveaway Update

Hi gang,

Sorry, I know this is super overdue! Due to some unforeseen circumstances, including an increased "regular job" workload, an illness and 2 deaths in my family, my huge Spring Giveaway was put on the side burner while my blog ran on autopilot (thanks to some helpful volunteers).

I'm hoping to be back in full swing by next week and will have an update soon. Some of the winners were already notified and have received their prizes, I just have been remiss about making the announcements. I do still have a few more prizes to give away so you may still be a winner!

All winners will be notified by the end of this weekend.

Again, my sincerest apologies, but sometimes life just gets in the way and the best of intentions go unfulfilled.

Talk soon!
CK

NEW Product Line: Jessica Burlesque Beauty Collection

Brand:Jessica
Name: Burlesque Beauty
Size: n/a

Price: n/a

The Jessica Burlesque Beauty collection presents 6 new rich colors that are perfect for the fall. With shades of purples, berries and greens the new collection helps any woman embrace her dark, playful or sexy side on a whim.

Shades in the Collection:
- 636: Gorgeous Garter Belt – Magenta
- 637: Ruffled Bottoms – Violet
- 638: Fishnets and Fringe – Hunter Green
- 639: For Your Eyes Only - Grape
- 640: Feather Boa - Mauve
- 641: Sexy Siren - Plum

As with all Jessica products, these nail colours are:
- Formulated with Vitamins A for maximum conditioning
- Contain UVA/UVB protection from sun’s damaging rays
- Eco-friendly: Toluene-, Formaldehyde-and Phalate-Free
- Quick-drying

image: press release

Shiseido Bonus Time at The Bay

Canadians - It's Shiseido Bonus Time!

Retailer: The Bay
Minimum amount you need to spend: $43.00 CAD (before taxes)
Duration: Sept. 9-20, 2009


What You Get:
- Benefiance Balancing Softener, 30 ml
- Benefiance Revitalizing Emulsion, 15 ml
- Bio-Performance Super Restoring Cream, 7 ml
- the Makeup Lifting Foundation in I40, 5 ml
- Makeup Perfect Rouge in RD514, 2 g
- a signature pouch

image: www.hbc.com

Estee Lauder Bonus Time at Macys (USA)

Hey Americans - It's Estee Lauder Bonus Time!

Retailer: Macy's
Minimum amount you need to spend: $29.50 USD (before taxes)
Duration: until September 27, 2009


What You Get:
- choose your 2 lipsticks
- choose your eyeshadow quad palette in either warm or cool shades
- New Advanced Night Repair, 10-day supply
- Take It Away Make Up Remover
- 2 bags


Spent $55 USD and you'll get the above bonus gift PLUS:
- 2 mascaras
- lash primer
- a matching accessory case

image: e-mail flyer

Estee Lauder Bonus Time at Holt Renfrew

Canadians - It's Estee Lauder Bonus Time!

Retailer: Holt Renfrew
Minimum amount you need to spend: $55.00 CAD (before taxes)
Duration: Sept. 11-20, 2009


What You Get:
- Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Creme, 15 ml
- Re-Nutriv Intensive Hydrating Creme Cleanser, 50 ml
- Eyeshadow Palette - 10 coordinating shades including Cinnamon, Honey Drop, Tea Biscuit, Copper Penny, Mocha Cup, Mink and Truffle Quad
- Hydra Lustre Lipstick in Apricot Sun
- More Than Mascara in Rich Black
- patent-shine tote & cosmetics bag

image: www.holtrenfrew.com

NEW Product: benefit crescent row

Brand:benefit
Name: Crescent Row
Size: 30 ml / 1 us fl oz
Price: approx. $36 USD

A new collection of 3 fun eau de toilettes which are packaged in benefit's signature fun packaging design.

laugh with me LeeLee
A woody floral with a light blend of citrus, jasmine and lily blossoms. A naturally light scent with a classic feminine style.
- top notes: cassis, melon, citrus
- middle notes: black violet, lily, jasmine
- bottom notes: blonde wood, amber, santal

something about Sofia
An oriental flora that's a dream of oriental blossoms, mango and vanilla. An intriguing and mysterious scent with a free spirit.
- top notes: mango, freesia
- middle notes: sheer lily, jasmine sambac, peony petal
- bottom notes: musk, white caramel, vanilla bean

my place or yours Gina
A woody oriental scent that's an alluring affair of pink pepper, wild raspberry and patchouli.A seductively provocative scent with a "flaunt it if you've got it" attitude.
- top notes: pink pepper, bergamot, tangerine
- middle notes: peony, wild raspberry, white lily
- bottom notes: patchouli, tonka bean, vanilla bean

image: http://www.benefitcosmetics.com

Product Review: Neutrogena Night Calming Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Neutrogena
Name: Night Calming Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths Size: 25 pre-moistend cloths
Price: approx. $8.49 USD

As most of you know, I'm a huge fan of Neutrogena. It's a brand that has consistent worked for me and so I'm always excited when they introduce new products.

I regularly use the Neutrogena All-in-One Make-Up Removing Cleansing Wipes whenever I travel or go to the cottage on the weekends because they're so convenient and replace both my toner and my cleanser, so that's 2 less bottles for me to carry.

Now, Neutrogena has introduced their new Night Calming Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths. It does the same thing as the regular Cleansing Wipes, but with a light "unique relaxing frangrace to soothe the sense" (from the press release)

To Purr About:
- no alcohol in the product
- takes off all my makeup in a flash, even my stay-put eyeliner and eye shadow
- comes in a convenient, re-sealable pouch
- light, pleasant scent
- leaves my skin feeling clean, but soft

Claws Out:
- none

Final Comments:
What can I say? This product does everything it's supposed to. The scent is different from the usual Neutrogena wipes, but is really pleasant and not too overpowering. The cloths work perfectly. My eye makeup stays put throughout the workday, but this products takes it off with a few gentle swipes. It's so effective that I don't need to rub my eyes to get the makeup off. It also leaves my skin feeling really nice, there's absolutely no dryness or tightness to it.

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: neutrogena.com

NEW Product Line: Lise Watier Vibrations Collection

Lise Watier's Fall 2009 collection is has some lovely, bright colours, perfect for the season. I love the cute packaging - that pattern always makes me think of autumn (although that may be because it reminds me of school...).

"With its numerous moods and colours, this season's palette includes vivid and luminous shades, while conserving the unmistakable feeling of sobriety and serenity. The collection is presented in attractive compacts with argyle motifs putting forward its striking star shades. " (from the press release)

Eyeshadow Quartet
The fall palette is presented in colours ranging from bright and luminous to muted and sophisticated - an apt reflection of a season filled with contrasts. These silky-textured shadows can be applied separately or together. Paraben-free.
- Vibrations ($34 CAD): a fresh metallic autumn green on the lids, lush, feminine peach and violet tones, and taupe under the eye ot complete the effect. Presented in an elegant checkered case in the same colours. Limited edition
- Les Classiques ($30 CAD): dark brown, frosted beige, golden yellow and charcoal


Metal Ink Long Lasting Eyeliner, $19 CAD
Waterproof and paraben-free, this eyeliner goes on easily with an ultra-precise applicator brush.
- Charcoal: iridescent eyeliner that adds depth and drama to the eyes.
- Golden Khaki: a metallic liquid eyeliner in khaki green

Eye Shine, $16 CAD
The immensely popular Eye Shine collection has a new addition. A waterproof eyeliner that helps you create a smoky eye.
- Smokey Brown: a smoky brown, lightly iridescent shade

Duo Bronze & Glow Face & Cheek Powder, $28 CAD
Powder for the face and cheeks. This dynamic duo of super-silky powders can be used separately or mixed any way you awnt for an even tan and brighter complexion. A multi-purpose 2-in-1 powder that's embossed with the diamond-shaped pattern of the Vibrations collection.


Rouge Gourmand Lipstick, $18 CAD
- Sugar: a soft pink hue with a pearly finish
- Caramel: a rich apricot shade to make lips warm and golden

images: press kit

Product Review: ecoTools Sustainable Softness Body Lotion

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: ecoTools
Name: Sustainable Softness Body Lotion
Size: 8 fl. oz. / 236 ml
Price: approx. $7.99 USD

I love the ecoTools line of organic cosmetic brushes so was intrigued when they launched their new collection of bath and body products.

The body lotion features shea butter to "soothe dry skin and provide. long-lasting moisture. Unique formula absorbs easily into skin with a soft, natural scent." (from the web site)

To Purr About:
- nice, pleasant scent that isn't overpowering
- rich lotion that's a bit thicker than most body lotions I've tried

Claws Out:
- takes a bit of work for it to get absorbed into the skin because of the thickness of the product
- doesn't leave my skin immediately silky soft, but after a while, once it's really absorbed, skin does feel moisturized
- isn't sticky or greasy

Final Comments:
I've tried body lotions and I've tried body butters, and this product, in thickness and consistency, falls somewhere in between. It's thicker than most body lotions I've tried, but more liquid than most body butters. It does take some rubbing to get it completely absorbed into the skin and you get the sticky, almost rubbery feeling that some thicker creams leave on the skin. Once I give it some time to fully absorb, my skin did feel softer, but not the silky softness I crave. It isn't greasy or sticky like almost many other body butters and lotions, which is a big plus. Has a nice, fresh scent that isn't too strong (although i still would prefer a unfragranced version).

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: parispresents.com

Product Review: Olay Purifying Mud Lathering Cleanser

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Olay
Name: Purifying Mud Lathering Cleanser
Size: 150 mL
Price: approx. $12.50 CAD

I used to try to make time for a weekly "at home" mask treatment - either a home-made mask or a store-bought one. I've found both are effective in their own ways and help to keep my oily skin down to a minimum.

This new product from Olay combines the mud mask treatment with a daily face wash routine.

"Olay Purifying Mud Lathering Cleanser deep cleans to purify skin’s surface with the cleansing power of a mask in a daily cleansing form...helps to remove 2times the
dirt and make-up than basic cleansing (based on removal of waterproof make-up vs. the leading beauty bar) The product lathers and rinses like a daily cleanser for thoroughly purified, clean skin." (from press release)

To Purr About:
- lathers up very quickly (I used it in the shower)
- minimal scent
- rinces off easily
- no need to wait for the "mud mask" to dry
- left my face squeaky clean

Claws Out:
- a little drying
- left my skin feeling slightly "rubbery"
- needed to moisturize as soon as I stepped out of the shower because my face felt dry and tight

Final Comments:
I did love the way this product lathered up quickly and I didn't need to use very much of it and was still able to thoroughly cleanse my face and neck. It rinses off easily and completely. What I didn't care for was how dry it made my skin feel. Right after rinsing, my face was "squeaky" clean - I ran my hand over my face and it wasn't silky smooth but very, VERY clean feeling. After using the product, I definitely needed to moisturize as it left my skin feeling tight and a little dry.

I would definitely use this cleanser again because it did a great job of cleaning my skin, but I think it may be too drying for my skin type to be used daily.

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: press kit