Product Review: Nair Tahitian Blooms Ready-To-Use Wax Strips

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Nair
Name: Tahitian Blooms Ready-To-Use Wax Strips
Size: 20 strips
Price: approx. $10.99 CAD

From the website: "The cello-backed strips follow body contours for easy hair removal that is effective even on short hair for long lasting results up to 4 weeks. The wax contains 24% moisturizing agents with a soothing gardenia scent."

To Purr About:
- strips are convenient and easy-to-use
- no mess
- no chemical smell
- strips can be reused a couple of times depending on hair thickness/amount
- effective on even short hair
- no heating of wax required
- comes with 2 After Use moisturizing towelettes that help soothe and moisturize skin and also to remove residual wax

Claws Out:
- scent is a little strong
- didn’t remove all the hair
- wish it came with a couple more of the After Use towelettes to remove residual wax

Final Comments:
I’m not a regular waxer, but once in a while I’ll try it because I do prefer having my hair stay away longer. In the past I’ve found waxing at home to be messy, tedious and not worth the painful process, but I always see new products that claim to be improved and think to myself – with all the technological advancements, why couldn’t the process be improved from the last time I tried it?

Compared to my previous experiments with home waxing I do have to say this has been the best so far. The process is very easy and not messy. I love not having to heat this wax up with my stove or microwave and I love the convenience of not having to clean off any cloths used to pull the wax off my skin.


After using the wax strips my skin was super sticky & waxy so I was glad the product came with the After Use towelettes. They are great, but a bit oily, so I probably wouldn’t want to use them on my face. I really wish each package came with more than 2 After Use towelletes as I ran out. I think baby oil will work in removing the left over wax though.

Although the instructions mention the strips are 1 time use only, I did use them a few times with some success. I think it depends on the coarseness and quantity of body hair.

The Nair Ready-to-use Wax Strips didn`t remove all the hair in the area that I had placed the strip, but enough that I didn`t need to shave since my hair isn`t super coarse.

All-in-all I`m pretty happy with this product. I do wish waxing was a bit more affordable, but I suppose I`ve paid more for other beauty treatments. I would use this product again. It's a great time saver and very convenient.

Check out naircare.ca for product coupons.

Rating (out of 5):

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

Product Review: Nair Ultra Precision Face & Eyebrow Roll-On Wax

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Nair
Name: Ultra Precision Face & Eyebrow Roll-On Wax
Size: 15 ml
Price: approx. $11.99 CAD

From the package: "Derived from a professional technique, the roll-on applicator glides smoothly following the curves of the face and is gentle on delicate skin. It redefines the shape of the eyebrows according to your style. The precision wooden spatula provides a perfect finishing touch."

To Purr About:
- easy to warm up and apply
- can be used for several applications
- dissolves easily with water
- washable mini-strips are easy to wash and super fast drying
- not very messy

Claws Out:
- didn’t remove hair at all

Final Comments:
As I might have mentioned before, I’m not a regular waxer, but with the recent success I had with the Nair Ready-to-use wax strips I was pumped to try another Nair product. I've stayed away from facial wax in the past because it seems to be tricky and the eyebrow is one place I want total control, but my curiosity got the better for me and I picked up this Ultra Precision product to try.


In the past I’ve found waxing at home to be messy, tedious and not worth the painful process, but I always see new products that claim to be improved and think to myself – with all the technological advancements, why couldn’t the process be improved from the last time I tried it?

The instructions were simple and warming up and applying this product was easy enough. It did glide on easily and wasn’t messy which was good and the wax was water soluble in case I made any mistakes with product placement on my face.

Unfortunately that’s where the good times ended. After ripping several of the strips away from my face I was disappointed to find that no hair was removed. The wax was simply too soft to remove any wax. I thought I might be doing it wrong so I left it on for a bit longer, but in the end only a tiny amount of hair was removed if any. I would not try this product again.

I would however try a facial version of the ready-to-use strips if they have them!

Check out naircare.ca for product coupons.

Rating (out of 5):




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

Cinnamon Kitten contest: Hawaiian Tropic gift pack

Ok, summer, I get it. You're taking your sweet time and making a dramatic entrance. But seriously, it's almost the end of June and I'm ready to embrace the sunshine and blue skies. Begone rainy days already!

To help you get into the sunny mood and ready for the beach, Cinnamon Kitten is excited to give away a Hawaiian Tropic gift pack!

I love Hawaiian Tropic products and the scent always makes me think of lazy beach days. Are you ready to have some fun under the sun?

THE BLOG GIVEAWAY

A Hawaiian Tropic gift pack, valued at over $100 CAD, which includes:
- Beach tote
- Beach hat
- Sunglasses
- Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer SPF 15
- Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer After Sun
- Hawaiian Tropic Lightweight Sheer Touch SPF 30
- Hawaiian Tropic Lightweight Sheer Touch SPF 60
- Hawaiian Tropic Crème 10


To enter:
- Leave a comment on this blog post (along with your email so I can contact you if you win!) with the answer to this question:

What time of day is the sun the strongest?
- 6am – 9am
- 9am - 10am
- 10am - 3pm
- 3pm - 5pm

Rules:
- The contest is open to Canadian residents only.
- Contest ends Friday, July 8, 2011
- Winner will be contacted via e-mail

Product Review: Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal Foot Spray

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal
Name: : Foot Spray
Size: 4 fl oz / 120 ml
Price: $3.99 USD

From their website: “This liquid version of our deodorant crystal is the perfect product to eliminate foot odor. An added benefit is to spray it into shoes or sneakers to solve odor problems. 100% pure and natural, non-sticky, non-greasy, fragrance free, 24-hour hypoallergenic protection. Good news...our sprayer is designed to function when the bottle is upside down!

Available at: Whole Foods Market, Stop n Shop, Amazon.com and Alice.com.”

To Purr About:
- contains aloe vera to help soothe and moisturize feet
- very affordable
- available in smaller 25mL bottles
- can spray product right in the shoe to help eliminate odour
- hypoallergenic
- kept bad foot odour away
- sprays on clear and doesn’t leave a residue

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
In the summertime I am constantly paranoid about my feet smelling badly. So I was very intrigued when I saw this product. Not only did it advertise that it would help eliminate food odor, but it was 100% pure and natural.

I was pretty impressed, and then a bit skeptical, when I read the list of ingredients of this product: purified water, aloe vera and natural mineral salts (purified water being the first ingredient). This seems too good to be true – it’s so simple and I can feel good that I’m not spraying a bunch of chemicals on my skin.


I’ve used this product many times now on both my feet and my shoes and am impressed. I’ve used it during the hottest days this year so far and in a variety of my shoes and it’s really kept bad foot odour away. I can’t wait to use it with all my other shoes and I’m really interested in the rest of Naturally Fresh’s other products.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: cinnamonkitten.blogspot.com

My $50 spend in June

So back at the end of May, I asked you, my dear readers, to suggest some things for me to spend $50 on in June. I got some wonderful suggestions, and here's what I ended up with:

Nanoblur ($19 CAD)


tarte Amazonian clay 12-hour blush in natural beauty ($33 CAD)


So I spent slightly more than $50, but it was pretty close. Watch for reviews soon! And start thinking about what I should spend July's $50 on - I'll be asking for suggestions soon (but there's going to be a twist!)

Product News: NARS Summer 2011 Collection

Brand: NARS
Name: Summer 2011 Collection

"The Summer 2011 Collection is a range of warm, sophisticated, shimmering shades, punctuated with shots of vivid, nature-defying colour. Eyes are washed in icy sea foam, silver-green and frozen turquoise. Lips are infused with mandarin orange gloss and hot pink matte colour. The look is finished with nails in bold sunflower yellow or matte opaque white for a modern, edgy effect that's strictly NARS."


Trio Eyeshadow, $45 USD
Delivers a cool wash of colour to lids. Wear each richly-pigmented hue solo for a delicate look or layer for a more nuanced effect.
- Cap Ferrat: inspired by the Alpes-Martimes region in southeastern France. icy sea foam, silver green and icy turquoise

Duo Eyeshadow, $33 USD
- Dogon: named for the Mali-based culture, this metallic taupe (with icy green sheen) and charcoal black duo eyeshadow delivers an unexpected twist on an otherwise neutral colour combo. when blended together, the shades create an iridescent green cast on the charcoal hue
- Exotic Dance: metallic white with silver sheen and metallic gold

Soft Touch Shadow Pencil, $24 USD
A smooth and creamy soft touch shadow pencil that can be swiped on lids and blended with fingertip. As a liner, a highlighter or a base for powder shadows, it lends eyes a clean, brilliant look.
- Queen: a majestic and modern citrus gold glitter


Highlighting Blush, $27 USD
Wear alone or over other cheer products as a highlight or for added dimension.
- New Order: a soft pink blush with gold and silver shimmer


Lip Gloss, $24 USD
Wear this lip gloss alone or over other lip colours for a shinier look with added depth.
- Wonder: shiny, sheer mandarin orange lip gloss laced with pink and gold shimmer

Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, $25 USD
- Bolero: pink cantaloupe

Pure Matte Lipstick, $25 USD
- Carthage: named for the string of cities that line the Gulf of Tunis, this matte, hot pink hue saturates lips with rich, bold colour.

Lipstick, $24 USD
Wear alone or with other lip products.
- Mayflower: nourishing, sheer raspberry lipstick delivers subtle colour with a shimmery finish


Nail Polish, $17 USD
- Ecume: an opaque white nail enamel
- Kismet: metallic sunflower

images: press release

Product Review: Secret Natural Mineral

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Secret
Name: Natural Mineral
Size: 45 g
Price: approx. $5 CAD

Scent Tried: lemongrass mint

From Secret’s website:
- Naturally derived odor protection
- Neutralizes odor instead of masking it
- Available in fresh, clean scents or unscented

To Purr About:
- derived from natural ingredients
- available in 3 scents (lemongrass mint, eucalyptus blossom, unscented)
- nice fresh scent
- neutralized odor well
- kept underarm area dry
- goes on clear

Claws Out:
- flakey at the end of more intense days
- not 100% natural

Final Comments:
Seems like everyone is moving towards the natural ingredients lately, so it was only a matter of time until our deodorants and antiperspirants headed that way.

I’m a huge fan of Secret and have used it for many years, so I was excited to try their new naturally derived products. Although they advertise a naturally derived product the ingredient list definitely does not seem “natural” as I can’t seem to pronounce or recognize most of them. I guess it would be expecting too much to be completely natural.

That aside, the weather is finally hot and humid here and I figured it was a great time to put this product to the test. That aside, the first thing I noticed about this product when I opened it is the subtle fresh scent which was very appealing to me. The first day I wore it all day at work and also during an intense workout.

It definitely seemed to neutralize odor (no smelly armpits here) and kept the area nice and dry which is quite impressive. The only bad part is that I noticed it looked very flaky on my armpits (see the picture of some of the flakes on my finger tips that I gently rubbed off).


The flaking only happened after intense workouts and didn’t seem to occur on more routine days when I just went to work and ran errands. Since I usually shower after intense workouts I don’t mind the flaking and think it’s a small price to pay for moving towards a more “natural” product.

Rating (out of 5):




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

Product News: Lise Watier Bora Bora Collection

Brand: Lise Watier
Name: Bora Bora 2011 Collection

"Inspired by Bora Bora's timeless beauty, the Lise Watier Bora Bora 2011 Collection evokes intense light and the warm and sensual assortment of vibrant colours and soft, exotic fragrances.

With tropical hues ranging from papaya green to purest violet to deepest ocean blue and bold textures and ultra-shimmering effects, this collection evokes a new freedom to explore."


Palette Bora Bora, $38 CAD
This eyeshadow palette is a perfect infusion of tropical energy and has 5 tropical hues that evoke a tropical paradise, all in an attractive compact. Includes shades of pearl white, golden sand, green papaya, jungle green and violet. Limited edition.


Duo Shadow and Glitter, $25 CAD
Vibrant and colourful cream eyeshadows with a coordinated glitter powder.
- Blue Ray: hints of beauty and freshness of the sea
- Golden Wasabi: evokes lush rain forests
- Wild Orchid: pays tribute to the panopoly of tropical blooms


Glitter Eyeshadow Brush, $15 CAD
Lise Watier's newest brush has a silicon tip especially designed for precision application of loose glitter over eyshadow.


Lip Kiss Crayon Gloss, $18 CAD
Moisturizes and nourishes lips. The crayon format means it glides on easily and with precision, with a light-weight, satiny core, never sticky.
- Pink Jelly: a bright yet tender pink
- Mango Punch: as appetizing as the exotic fruit. Limited edition.


Rouge Plumpissimo, $20 CAD
A lipstick with impressive plumping and volumizing abilities.
- Melon d'eau
- Orange Tango


Nail Lacquer, $12 CAD
Limited edition.
- Ile Deserte
- ˆFun in the Sun


Bora Bora Eau de Toilette Spray, 50 ml, $50 CAD
Entice the senses with sensual and feminine notes of passion flower, jasmine and rose blended with the warmth of an exotic fruit cocktail, all on a soft base of warm amber and vanilla, and of wood and musk notes.

image: press release

Product Review: Olay Regenerist Micro-Exfoliating Wet Cleansing Cloths

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Olay
Name: : Regenerist Micro-Exfoliating Wet Cleansing
Cloths
Size: 30 wet textured cloths
Price: approx. $16 CAD

From Olay’s website: “Regenerate skin’s surface as you cleanse, for a face that looks and feels visibly smoother.
- Removes dirt and make-up
- Exfoliates to speed natural regeneration of skin's surface”

To Purr About:
- convenient and great for travelling
- clothes are pre-moistened, so they do not require water
- very gentle on skin and did not irritate me super sensitive skin
- do not dry out skin

Claws Out:
- doesn’t seal well – which can cause product to dry out
- do not find they exfoliate very well

Final Comments:
When summer rolls around that usually means weekend getaways and camping, and I’m always looking for creative ways to keep my skin feeling clean and fresh on the go. On a recent trip out of the city I packed these Olay Regenerist Micro-exfoliating wet cleaning cloths with me to start trying them out.

After using these for about two weeks now, I found them to be a great solution for keeping the skin clean and fresh when you’re either away from home or too lazy to wash your face. Since they are wet clothes and do not require water to activate them they are great to pack for camping trips and are super convenient.

I’m not sure how well this product was removing dirt from my face and did not find them very exfoliating, but they did leave my face feeling very moisturized and refreshed.

My only major complaint was that as a result of the way I ripped the label off (I’m pretty sure I followed the instructions) I didn’t find the seal for the package that
good, which meant they would dry out sooner or later. It wasn’t a huge deal for me since I used the whole pack in about 2 weeks, but I couldn’t save them for my next trip.

I would probably buy this product again, but more for a travelling companion and
not an everyday sort of thing.

Rating (out of 5):




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

Father's Day Gift Ideas from Every Man Jack

Brand: Every Man Jack

One of my husband's favourite brands, Every Man Jack, has a great new kit for Father's Day this year - The Double Play Kit.

Essentially two kits in one, the Double Play is packed with items from both the shave and body collections, and remains true to Every Man Jack’s commitment to eco-friendly ingredients. At a $40 value but retailing for a wallet-friendly $25, it’s a great deal.


Shave Items (Fragrance Free)

Face Scrub – Pre-Shave
Formulated using plant-derived surfactants that deep clean; jojoba beads that gently remove dry and dead skin; chamomile, organic aloe and vitamin E to soothe; and glycerin to provide hydration.

Shave Cream Hydrating Formula
This rich, low-foam Shave Cream softens and preps the beard hair for a more comfortable shave that won’t dry out skin or clog pores. Squalane, derived from wheat germ, lubricates and softens while olive oil extract hydrates, chamomile soothes and aloe heals.

Face Lotion – Post-Shave
The post-shave Face Lotion deeply hydrates and heals dry and razor-irritated skin. Unlike other lotions, this one will not block pores, which can lead to breakouts, and dries matte. A combination of marine extracts and Shea butter hydrate while aloe and vitamin E protect.

Body Items - Available in Citrus (pictured above) or Cedarwood (pictured below)

Deodorant
An aluminum-free, naturally-derived deodorant that will help neutralize odors. Witch hazel extract plus cotton absorb sweat and moisture while essential fragrance oils refresh.

Body Wash
Coconut derived surfactants cleanse, essential oils stimulate the senses, marine extracts soothe and glycerin locks-in moisture. All scents derived from natural oils.

Body Bars (4-pack)
The vitamin-enriched Body Bars are made using a 100% vegetable base, which contains no tallow, an ingredient commonly found in other bar soaps. Marine extracts soothe while glycerin retains the skin’s moisture. All scents derived from natural oils.

Other

Lip Balm – SPF 15
This lip balm will not only help protect you from sunburn, but also prevent and relieve chapped lips with its smooth texture.

As always, Every Man Jack’s products are free of dyes, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate and parabens, making them perfect for just about anyone, including the eco-conscious guy.

Retail price: $25


image: press release

Weekend Beauty Reads From The Beauty Blog Network

Phyrra tells you her favorite way to keep the harmful UV rays at bay with LaVanila The Healthy Sun Screen SPF 40 Face Cream.

Beauty 365 dishes on the latest addition to her Home Spa Initiative, Alba Botanica's Hawaiian Papaya Enzyme Facial Mask!

Elke shares the best summer hair styles from from Celebrity Hair Stylist Paul Cucinello.

Melissa of The Makeup Divas is back to blogging after a month of recovery from an operation and shares her review of the LORAC TANtaleyes Palette.

Did you know Kenzo has a skincare line? Retrodiva checks out their new Belle de Jour skin serum.

From Hard Candy's Glamoflage to Slatkin's Flower Shop candle, and more, Wendy from Painted Ladies discusses some recent favorite beauty finds.

Cinnamon Kitten has a chat with UNII Cosmetics founder, Minna.

A Touch of Blusher previews Dior's fall 2011 makeup collection.

Lipstick and Luxury shares Mascara Melee: Five Top Formulas Road Tested

Women's Health 2011 Beauty Awards

Lots of Beauty Awards being given out lately and I love browsing the lists to see if there's any products that I should add to my shopping list. Are there any on this list that you also agree is a big winner? Any that you think shouldn't have made the cut?

All prices are in US Dollars and are approximate.


Award Name: Women's Health 5th Annual Beauty Awards

The Selection Process:
Readers and experts fill out open-ended ballots, which allow them to give the full name of the product they’re voting for.
- Readers: The readers' ballot is posted on WomensHealthMag.com and consists of 28
categories across hair, makeup, facial skin and body.
- Experts: The experts (hairstylists, makeup artists and dermatologists) receive a ballot with the same category options as readers but tailored to their specific area of expertise.
- Editors: The Women’s Health editors are responsible for choosing the best new products on the market.

For the 2011 awards, the products under consideration were those that launched between January and June 2011.

BEST IN FACE

BEST CLEANSER
Readers' Pick: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, $7
Experts' Pick: Aveeno Positively Ageless Daily Exfoliating Cleanser, $8

BEST ANTI-AGING PRODUCT
Readers' Pick: RoC Multi-Correxion Night Treatment, $25
Experts' Pick: Olay Regenerist Fragrance-Free Regenerating Serum, $19

BEST ACNE TREATMENT
Readers' Pick: ProActiv Refining Mask, $28
Experts' Pick: Clean & Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment, $7

BEST MOISTURIZER
Readers' Pick: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculptin Cream, $25
Experts' Pick: Aveeno Positively Radian Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30, $14

BEST EYE PRODUCT
Readers' Pick: Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle & UV Damage Corrector, $45
Experts' Pick: Olay Regenerist Eye Derma-Pod Anti-Aging Triple Response Cream, $25

BEST NEW EYE-BRIGHTENING TREATMENT
Editors' Pick: Jose Maran Argan Day + Night Eye Cream, $68

BEST ANTI-AGING MOISTURIZER
Editors' Pick: Kiehl's Rosa Arctica Youth Regenerating Cream, $60

BEST MAKEUP-REMOVER CLOTHS
Editors' Pick: Yes to Blueberries Brightening Facial Towelettes, $8

BEST IN MAKEUP

BEST LIPSTICK
Readers' Pick: Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey, $15
Experts' Pick: L'Oreal Paris Infallible Le Rouge Lipcolor, $10

BEST LIP GLOSS
Readers' Pick: M.A.C. Tinted Lipglass in Nymphette, $15
Experts' Pick: Chanel Glossimer, $29

BEST CONCEALER
Readers' Pick: CoverGirl Fresh Complexion Under Eye Concealer, $6
Experts' Pick: Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, $28

BEST FOUNDATION
Readers' Pick: Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Matte SPF 15 Foundation, $28
Experts' Pick: Estee Lauder Double Wear Light Stay-in-Place Makeup SPF 10, $34

BEST MASCARA
Readers' Pick: CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara, $9
Experts' Pick: Lancome Definicils High Definition Mascara, $25

BEST BRONZER
Readers' Pick: Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Warmth, $18
Experts' Pick: Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder, $49

BEST BLUSH
Readers' Pick: Nars Blush in Orgasm, $27

BEST EYELINER
Readers' Pick: Maybelline New York Unstoppable Liner, $7
Experts' Pick: Shiseido Makeup Automatic Fine Eyeliner, $29

BEST EYELINER/SHADOW STICK
Editors' Pick: Mark Ibiza Sol Marbleized Eye Shadow Stick, $10

BEST EYE SHADOW
Readers' Pick: M.A.C. Eye Shadow, $15
Experts' Pick: M.A.C. Eye Shadow, $15
Editors' Pick: Armani Eyes to Kill Intense Eye Shadows, $32

BEST NAIL POLISH
Readers' Pick: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color, $5
Expert's Pick: Essie Nail Color in Smokin' Hot, $8

BEST IN HAIR

BEST SHAMPOO
Readers' Pick: Pantene Pro-V Restore Beautiful Lengths Frizz Control Shampoo, $5
Experts' Pick: L'Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care System Moisture Shampoo, $7

BEST CONDITIONER
Readers' Pick: Pantene Pro-V Medium-Thick Hair Solutions Flat to Volume Conditioner, $4
Expert's Pick: Kerastase Nutritive Lait Vital, $38

BEST AT-HOME HAIR COLOR
Readers' Pick: Clairol Natural Instincts Vibrant Collection Permanent Hair Color, $9
Experts' Pick: L'Oreal Paris Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Colour, $10

BEST HAIR SPRAY
Readers' Pick: Tresemme TRES Two Extra Hold Hair Spray, $5
Experts' Pick: L'Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Extra Strong Hold, $15

BEST CURL-ENHANCING SHAPING PRODUCT
Readers' Pick: Aveda Be Curly Style-Prep, $24
Experts' Pick: John Frieda Frizz-Ease Dream Curls Curl-Perfecting Spray, $6

BEST VOLUMIZING/BODIYFYING PRODUCT
Readers' Pick: Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Spray Mousse, $17
Experts' Pick: Shu Uemura Art of Hair Fiber Lift, $33

BEST FRIZZ-FIGHTING PRODUCT
Readers' Pick: Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum, $7
Experts' Pick: Tresemme Fresh Start No-Frizz Cream, $4

BEST DEEP-CONDITIONING TREATMENT
Editors' Pick: Biolage Hydratherapie Aqua-Immersion Hair Creme Masque, $17

BEST LEAVE-IN TREATMENT
Editors' Pick: Dove Damage Therapy Nourishing Oil Care Leave-In Smoothing Cream, $5

BEST ROOT TOUCH-UP PRODUCT
Editors' Pick: Rita Hazan Root Concealer, $24

BEST IN BODY

BEST BODY LOTION
Readers' Pick: Bath & Body Works Signature Collection Body Butter, $15
Experts' Pick: Lubriderm Intense Skin Repair Body Lotion, $7

BEST BODY WASH
Readers' Pick: Dove Deep Moisture Nourishing Body Wash, $4
Experts' Pick: Dove Gently Exfoliating Nourishing Body Wash, $4

BEST NOURISHING BODY WASH
Editors' Pick: St. Ives Triple Butters Creamy Vanilla Hydrating Body Wash, $3

BEST SELF-TANNER
Readers' Pick: Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer, $9
Experts' Pick: Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel, $33

BEST SUNBLOCK
Readers' Pick: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, $11
Experts' Pick: Neutrogena Spectrum+ Advanced Sunblock Lotion, $12

BEST LEG BRONZER
Editors' Pick: Guerlain Terracotta Jambes de Gazelle Cooling Bronzing Mist, $59

BEST FRAGRANCE (WOMEN)
Readers' Pick: Chanel Chance Eau de Parfum Spray, $80
Editors' Pick: Chloe Love, Chloe, $110

BEST FRAGRANCE (MEN)
Readers' Pick: Armani Acqua di Gio Men, $57
Editors' Pick: Burberry Sport Ice for Men, $72

BEST DEODORANT
Editors' Pick: Degree Women Expert Protection with MotionSense, $4

You can check out all the winners and get more info about the Awards on the Women's Health site.

image: press release

Cinnamon Kitten Q&A with Minna of UNII Cosmetics

Q&A Session with: Minna, Founder of UNII Cosmetics

How Cinnamon Kitten discovered UNII Cosmetics
Minna had previously sent me a sample of the UNII palette to review and I fell in love with the look, practicality and idea behind the palette. You can check out my original review of the UNII Palette here.

* * * * *

Tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to start your own company.

As a makeup enthusiast, I had a pretty eclectic collection of makeup. I was getting tired of carrying around what seemed like dozens of little eye shadows and blushes in one clunky bag and then just throwing away the empty makeup cases once all of the powder had been used up. So around 7 years ago, I figured out a way to consolidate my makeup into one case that would not just allow me to have my favorite brands and shades in one case but that would hold refills therefore eliminating excess packaging. I studied architecture and design in college which influenced the functionality and design of the palette. I wanted to create something that was aesthetically beautiful as well as user friendly and efficient.

Tell us about UNII Cosmetics.

UNII Cosmetics launched about a year ago with the goal of providing functional products that are also beautiful.

Have both of you always had a fascination with beauty products?

Yes and no. I loved exploring and discovering new makeup and beauty products while in high school. However, while in college and grad school, my focus shifted and I enjoyed learning about design. I took classes in design, manufacturing, business, and engineering. The UNII Palette is an intersection of these two interests.


Besides UNII Cosmetics, what else occupies your days?

UNII Cosmetics is increasingly taking up more of my time. I make sure to make time for things I love like yoga and catching up with friends. I look forward to making some time for travel, hopefully soon.

I love my UNII Palette, but tell me why you think my readers NEED to have one as well...

Personally, more than anything else, my UNII Palette saves me time. I can access all of my favorite products quickly without having to rummage through my bag or open and close multiple little containers.

The beauty industry is constantly changing. How do you keep on top of trends?

Being from outside the beauty industry, I have a lot of learning to do. I find the best place to learn about trends is from my customers. Feedback from my customers is so valuable and helpful. I can get a sense of what is available, what is lacking, and where things are headed. YouTube and blogs are also a great place to learn.


Besides your own line, what brands have made it onto your favourites list?

I like to try new things so this is hard... But the items that have stayed with me for a long time include MAC eyeshadows, Burt's Bee's Bees Wax Lip Balm, and my Shu Uemura Eyelash curler.

What are 3 beauty products you can’t live without.

MAC Gel Eyeliner, Amlactin body lotion, lip gloss.


What’s in store from UNII Cosmetics for 2011?

We are excited to expand the UNII line! Based on feedback from our customers, we will be coming out with different color and sized palettes. Please stay tuned!

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You can shop UNII Cosmetics online here.

Beauty Bits

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Halle Berry was recently honored with the Celebrity Fragrance of the Year award at the 2011 FiFi Awards for her portfolio of scents, including her most recent – Reveal by Halle Berry.

Reveal blends floral, fruit and woods - fresh, fruity top notes accompanied by Halle’s favorite flower, Mimosa, blend into a bouquet of plumeria flower, iris blossom and neroli petals. The fragrance then settles on a base of vetiver, cashmere woods and skin musk.

Halle Berry stated in a statement, "For years I have created my own personal scents by mixing and layering fragrances, trying to come up with something unique and different. It's a wonderful form of self-expression and I am thrilled to share these fragrances with consumers worldwide."

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Certain Dri is giving away one Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant every day for the entire summer! One random entrant will be chosen to receive a Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant (roll-on or solid) each day from May 27, 2011 to September 3, 2011. Every Friday at noon ET, all seven winners from that week will be announced on the Certain Dri Facebook page. The official entry form and rules are also available on the Facebook page.

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Ramy Gafni, Celebrity makeup artist, Ramy Cosmetic Company CEO, and critically acclaimed “Brow King,” is proud to announce the Second Annual “Eyebrow Intervention Day” on Friday, June 17 from 11:00 am — 7:00 pm, at RAMY Makeup & Brow Bars, located in all 21 participating New York City Duane Reade Look Boutiques.

For one day, Ramy and his staff will offer FREE eyebrow shapings — first come, first served. Walk-ins are welcome, although an appointment is encouraged. For store locations participating in the event, please click onto www.RAMY.com.

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Enter the Barielle Pool Party Pedi Giveaway and every weekday from June 13 – 17, 2011, one random entrant will receive a pool party prize pack consisting of:
- Barielle 60 Second Mani Pedi
- Barielle Nail Brightener
- a beach towel
- a pair of Havainas flip flips

Enter at the Barielle Facebook page.

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Coty Prestige and the House of Chloe announced that it has signed an agreement with British actress, Imogen Poots and French model and actress, Camille Rowe Poucheresse to be the new faces of Chloe's fall fragrance campaign world wide September 2011.

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Now through July 31, guys can enter the Third-Annual WANTED Contest from the award-winning grooming brand Every Man Jack. Visit EveryManJack.com/wanted for the chance to win an assortment of premium Every Man Jack products, a trip for two to Las Vegas and a potential spot in the company's upcoming Every Man Jack national print advertising campaign. Also, every guy who signs up automatically receives a coupon redeemable for a full-size product.

Product News: Father's Day Gift Ideas from L'Occitane

Brand: L'Occitane


Verdon Adventurer Set, $55 USD
Inspired by the refreshing waters and rocky gorges of the Verdon Valley in Haute Provence. This set includes:
- Verdon Pure Face Wash
- Outdoor Moisturizer SPF 30
- Energy Roll-On
- Fresh Shower Water


Cade Outdoorsman Set, $45 USD
Created specifically for men's skincare and shaving needs, the Cade range offers antiseptic and strengthening properties. Set includes:
- Cade Shaving Cream
- After Shave Balm


L'Occitan Gentleman of Provence Set, $45 USD
Set includes:
- L'Occitan Shaving Gel
- After Shave Balm
- Shea Milk Soap


Baux Chivalrous Set, $55 USD
This sensuous blend of cypress and incense pays homage to the courageous knights from the village of Les Baux. Set includes:
- Baux Shower Gel
- Baux Eau de Toilette

image: press release

Weekend Beauty Reads From The Beauty Blog Network

EyeshadowCult.com tried out 2011's Schick Intuition Limited Edition razor. Do we love it? Find out!

Phyrra shows you a fun green, teal and purple makeup look tutorial.

A Touch of Blusher counts down the best summer 2011 makeup collections.

Thu from Painted Ladies shares her top five inexpensive makeup brush finds!

The Pink Sith comes up for air...well, Oxygen, in her review of the Peter Thomas Roth Radiance Oxygenating Masque.

Raging Rouge is WILD about L'eau Par Kenzo Wild Edition for men!

It's Summer Time and Grey is celebrating with a Evil Shade’s Soft Summer Face Kit give away!

Cinnamon Kitten feels like doing some shopping - help her spend $50!

Beautiful Makeup Search has all of the details on the MAC Cosmetics and blogger collaboration MAC Bloggers' Obsessions.

Lancome Bonus Time at lancome.ca

Canadians - It's Lancome Bonus Time!

Retailer: lancome.ca

Duration: ends June 30, 2011

Minimum amount you need to spend: $34 CAD (before taxes)

What you get:
- Hypnose Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara in Black
- Aquatique Waterproof EyeColour Base
- La Base Pro Perfecting Makeup Primer Smoothing Effect, 8 ml
- Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
- Le Crayon Khol EyeLiner in Black Ebony

- L'Absolu Rouge Advanced Replenishing & Reshaping Lipcolour Pro-Xylane in Perfect Fig
- cosmetics bag

Use the code SUMMER2011 to add to your cart.

For more info, click here.

image: e-flyer

Product Review: Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Burt's Bees
Name: : Beeswax Lip Balm
Size: 8.5 g / 0.3 oz
Price: approx. $5.49 CAD

From their website: "Give your lips the soothing feeling they deserve. This natural lip balm is loaded with coconut and sunflower oils, rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids, to nourish, condition and soften lips. Beeswax seals in hydration. We've even added peppermint oil for a refreshing tingle. No wonder it is our most popular product."

Featured Ingredient:
Beeswax — A natural wax made by bees in the cell walls of honeycombs, this substance is a natural emulsifier used in cosmetics.

To Purr About:
- very light on lips
- non-greasy
- definitely helped soothe my dry lips
- you get a lot of balm for your money
- a little goes a long way
- long lasting

Claws Out:
- hate using my fingers to get the balm out of the tin
- very solid balm is a little hard to use
- menthol tingle is nice but can be a little strong for damaged lips

Final Comments:
I love the natural ingredients of Burts Bees and can see why their lip balm is so popular. A little goes a long way and it really does make my lips feel instantly better. It's not greasy or oily and lasts quite a long time after application.

I'm not a huge fan of the peppermint oil that they added. The scent is ok, but the tingle that it adds - it's fine if my lips are healthy, but I often want to use this lip balm when my lips are dry and chapped and the peppermint tingle is more irritating than soothing.

My other problem with this lip balm is the tin packaging. Although I love tins packaging in general, most of my regular readers know how much I hate having to use my fingers to apply lip balm, especially when I'm not at home and can't wash my hands. Plus, because this is quite a solid lip balm, it takes quite a bit of rubbing to get enough product on your finger to cover your lips.

I still gave this lip balm a pretty high rating because it just works so darn well that I can almost overlook the peppermint tingle and finger mess.

Rating (out of 5):




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