Product Review: CoverGirl Lash Blast Mascara

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: CoverGirl
Name: Lash Blast Mascara
Size: 13.1 mL
Price: Approx. $8 CAD

Shade Tried: Very Black

From Covergirl’s website: "Get a blast of lush, volumized lashes! LashBlast's patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look."

To Purr About:
- available in 4 shades
- didn’t irritate eyes
- didn’t smudge

Claws Out:
- not waterproof
- does not give that dramatic volume as shown in advertisements

Final Comments:
I saw the commercial for this product and let me just say that using this mascara did not give me that same dramatic volume-boosting that it gave Drew Barrymore. Those are definitely fake eyelashes. I mean, I guess I didn’t really expect such unreasonable results, but a girl can dream.

That being said, I think in terms of volumizing – this mascara was pretty on par. It did however impress me with the fact that it did not irritate my eyes or smudge on me. However, I would definitely pick up the waterproof version next time.

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: well.ca

Tri-Aktiline Instant Deep Wrinkle Filler Event Announcement

NOTE: Some dates/locations have changed - please check the schedule!

"Tri-Aktiline Instant Deep Wrinkle Filler, a new product for targeted application to frown lines, forehead lines and under-eye, contains a compound for instant visible line-filling results and long term visible wrinkle reduction." (from Shoppers Drug Mart web site)

Ingredients include:
- Gatuline Expression helps relax the look of facial tension and expression lines
- Kombuchka PH Extract plumps and smoothes wrinkles
- Argireline prompts skin into its re-build mode, boosting natural collagen production

Shoppers Drug Mart will be hosting demonstrations featuring Tri-Aktiline Instant Deep Wrinkle Filler at select stores in Toronto, Peterborough, Ottawa and Montreal.

Participating Shoppers Drug Mart locations, dates and times:

TORONTO area

Fri. Aug. 1, 5pm-9pm: 465 Yonge St., Toronto, 416-408-4000
Sat. Aug. 2,, 3pm-6pm: 4000 Hwy 7, Woodbridge, 905-851-2199
Sat. Aug. 2, 11am-2pm: 5230 Dundas St. W., Etobicoke, 416-233-3269
Sun. Aug. 3, 11am-2pm: 946 Lawrence Ave. E., Unit 2, Toronto, 416-444-4445
Sun. Aug. 3, 3pm-6pm: 388 King St. W., Toronto, 416-597-6550
Thurs. Aug. 7, 11am-3pm: 4841 Yonge St., Willowdale, 416-222-1174
Fri. Aug. 8, 5pm-9pm: 1800 Sheppard Ave. E., Unit 2075, Willowdale
Sat. Aug. 9, 11am-2pm: 2901 Bayview Ave., Unit 7A, Toronto, 416-225-3380
Sat. Aug. 9, 3pm-6pm: 550 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto, 416-485-3093
Thurs. Aug. 14, 5pm-9pm: 1355 Kingston Rd., Pickering, 905-839-4488
Fri. Aug. 15, 4pm-8pm: 8000 Bathurst St., Unit 1, Thornhill, 905-882-0201
Fri. Aug. 15, 1pm-9pm: 4000 Hwy 7, Woodbridge, 905-851-2199
Sat. Aug. 16, 12pm-5pm: 2290 Bloor St. W., Toronto, 416-769-1105
Sun. Aug. 17, 11am-5pm: 2501 Third Line, Oakville, 905 465-3000
Fri. Aug. 22, 12pm-6pm: 5230 Dundas St. W., Toronto, 416-236-1201

PETERBOROUGH

Sun. Aug. 10, 11am-5pm: 741 Landsdowne St. W., Peterborough, 705-748-6141

OTTAWA

Thurs. Aug. 21, 11am-5pm: 161 Bank St., Ottawa, 613-232-5723
Fri. Aug. 22, 11am-6pm: 50 Rideau St., Ottawa, 613-236-2533

MONTREAL

Sat. Aug. 23, 12pm-5pm: 5122 Cote-des-Neiges, Montréal, 514-738-8464
Wed. Aug. 27, 5pm-9pm: 2305 Rockland Rd., suite 191, Montréal, 514-739-5551
Thurs. Aug. 28, 11am-6pm: 15 Atwater, Montréal, 514-931-4283
Fri. Aug. 29, 11am-6pm: 1 Place Ville Marie, suite 11230, Montréal, 514-866-9881

Product Review: ecoTools Makeup Brushes

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: ecoTools

Name: Bamboo Angled Eyeliner Brush
Price: Approx. $3.99 USD

Name: Bamboo Blush Brush
Price: Approx. $6.99 USD

Back in March I blogged about a new line of brushes and beauty tools called ecoTools that were both earth-friendly and cruelty-free. I finally tried out a few of the makeup brushes and got to test out if they were as good as some of my other brushes.

To Purr About:
- comes in a re-usable plastic, resealable pouch
- Earth-friendly product (bamboo handles use a highly sustainable plant that is low-impact on the Earth's resources) and synthetic Taklon bristles are cruelty-free
- nice, sturdy handles feel really nice when held and have a good weight to them
- bristles are super-soft and pick up product really well
- price is really, really good
- the angled eyeliner brush works really well and I have no problem using it with my gel eyeliner

Claws Out:
- quality doesn't equal my favourite brushes (from MAC)
- not really available in Canada

Final Comments:
Even though they don't match my MAC brushes, the price and how friendly they are to both the Earth and animals makes these brushes very attractive. I love the weight of the brush and how soft the bristles are. At these prices, it's not hard to buy every brush in the set and equip yourself with all the tools you need!

If you're in the US, you can buy these brushes at several locations (check their site for more details) but retailers include Ulta and Walgreens. I hope they come to Canada soon!

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: parispresents.com

Estee Lauder Bonus Time at Holt Renfrew

Canadians - It's Estee Lauder Bonus Time again!

Retailer: Holt Renfrew
Minimum amount you need to spend: $55 CAD (before taxes)
Duration: ends August 10, 2008

What you get:
- Re-Nutriv Ultimate Youth Creme, 7-day supply
- Re-Nutriv Intensive Hydrating Creme Cleanser
- Golden Fluted Compact
- Sumptious Bold Volume Lifting Mascara, 10-day supply
- Pure Colour Long Lasting Lipstick
- a stylish deluxe tote with companion cosmetic bag

image: Holt Renfrew e-flyer

Product Review: Afterglow Organic Glow Bronzer

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Afterglow
Name: Organic Glow Bronzer
Size: 0.21 oz /6 g
Price: Approx. $18 USD

Shade Tried: Deep

A loose mineral bronzer that comes in light, medium and deep complexions and can be used on the apples of the cheeks, or as a contour. The colour bronzes the face leaving a warm, glowing look to the skin without the orangey color of traditional bronzers.

I'm not really a fan of bronzers only because I couldn't be bothered to "fake" a tan other than to use self-tanners to even out tan lines. However, I have started using bronzers on my face to give myself "cheekbones", which works really well since I have no cheekbones.

The sample of Glow Bronzer that I received was too dark for me (I would do well with the Light shade) but I did try it out anyway as a contour powder.

To Purr About:
- powder is soft and light
- after application, I couldn't feel the product on my skin at all
- made with "certified organic botanicals" and is "free of synthetic dyes, preservatives and fillers
- wide jar is easy to dip my brush into
- a little goes a long way, so the price isn't too bad

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
I have actually stuck to this bronzer as a contour, but only because it's summer and I'm darker than usual. I probably wouldn't be able to use it during the winter, when I'm really pale.

Afterglow makes a whole line of mineral cosmetics and is available online and in select stores. You can check them out at http://www.afterglowcosmetics.com/ (a store locator is available on their site)

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: afterglowcosmetics.com

Product Review: Zensation Brightening Mask

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: Zensation
Name: Brightening Mask
Size: 50 g
Price: n/a

I was really impressed by Zensation’s Bio Regenerating Serum, so I decided to investigate their other products.

Zensation’s products are free from alcohol, colorant, synthetic fragrance, animal ingredients, mineral oils and parabens derivatives to preserve the purity and effectiveness, thus minimizing any allergic reactions.

From the website: "The Brightening Mask works to control the melanogenesis process, preventing and reducing unwanted or excessive pigmentation."

To Purr About:
- my extremely allergy prone skin did not have any allergic reactions to it
- my skin felt smoother and softer after use
- complexion seemed to be “brighter” and more improved after continual use

Claws Out:
- have to let set for 20 minutes
- cream has an odd smell
- skin felt a bit agitated by the cream
- it is currently hard to find this product in North America
- very expensive

Final Comments:
I’m not too sure about the whitening properties of this product, but my skin did feel smoother and softer after using it. The scent of this product was definitely a turn off for me. And merely wiping it off and going about your routine meant the smell was lingered until the next time I washed my face.

My skin felt a slight agitation during the 20 minutes before I wiped it off, but my skin is super sensitive and usually leaving any product on it for a long period of time has the same results.

The price is a bit steep, but I find their products very impressive – if they were a TINY bit more affordable I’d be completely addicted. Again, I wish Zensation’s products were more easily found in North America, but I’m hoping they will be soon.

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.

Product Review: Clean & Clear Advantage Invisible Patch

Cinnamon Kitten welcomes a new regular product reviewer - babycAt! She'll be joining me (Cinnamon Kitten) and S.K.Y. in bringing this blog regular product reviews, so watch for her recommendations!

Reviewer: babycAt

Brand: Clean & Clear
Name: Advantage Invisible Patch
Size: 1.9 g
Price: approximately $12 CAD

Clean & Clear Advantage Invisible Acne Patch claims to have "a breakthrough formula helps you more easily conceal breakouts. When you apply the liquid to a pimple, it will appear smoother and your makeup will go on more evenly." (from the Clean & Clear web site)

The site goes on to say that this product "has pimple smoothing technology that features the film forming polymer Chitosan PCA. This polymer essentially "pulls up" the low points and "pushes down" the high points on skin to create a smoother looking surface. This smooth surface makes it easier to apply makeup."

To Purr About:
- it's good to use overnight to treat pimples

Claws Out:
- while using make up with the gel-like patch, it clogs up the make up and makes it blotchy
- the film over the pimple is shiny, so I wouldn't use it during the day
- it also starts to peel off and get flaky after an hour or so

Final Comments:
It's a good pimple treatment patch if you put it on overnight and wash it off in the morning, but I wouldn't recommend it for day use with make up like the instructions suggested.

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: cleanandclear.ca

Product Review: Nubar Skin Essentials

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Nubar
Name: Hypnotic Lotion
Size: 2 oz
Price: approximately $4.99 USD

Nubar's line of Skin Essentials is its signature collection of aromatherapy lotions with anti-oxidants. Available in six delicious scented formulas, every lotion is formulated with rich shea butter, essential oils, vitamins A and E and are paraben-free.

Tried:
- Hypnotic - "Emotional Balance", a mesmerizing fragrance with tantalizing hits of citrus
- Pomegranate Delight - "Mind Clearing", a powerful cellular defense with sweet pomegranate extracts

Also available:
- Island Breeze - "Tropical Exotic", a tropical blend with coconut and mango
- Vanilla Passion - "Calming, Sensual", an exotic blend of vanilla and musk
- Delicious Pear - "Calming", a blend of cucumbers, melons and delicious ripe pear
- Euphoria - Spiritualizes the Intellect", derived from sensual vanilla

To Purr About:
- lotion is creamy and rich, but absorbs quickly
- I love the smell of the Hypnotic lotion - it's light and citrusy and really nice
- moisturizing
- small bottle is easy to toss into my bag and bring with me

Claws Out:
- I found the scent of Pomegranate Delight a little too overpowering and sweet, which I didn't really like
- the bottles can cost $4.99 USD for 2 oz and $10.99 for 8 oz, which is kind of expensive to me

Final Comments:
This lotion is really nice and rich, but absorbs quickly and has a nice scent. Of the two I tried, I really, really like Hypnotic but found Pomegranate Delight too sweet for my taste. I would love to try some of the other scents, especially Delicious Pear. My other major complaint is the price.

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: bynubar.com

Product Review: Gosh Velvet Touch Lipliner

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Gosh
Name: Velvet Touch Lipliner
Size: 1.2 g / 0.04 US oz
Price: approximately $10 CAD

Shade Tried: Nougat Crisp

As I recently reported here, Gosh GOSH Cosmetics is a popular line of makeup from Denmark that was recently launched in Canada and is sold exclusively in Canada at more than 200 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores.

To Purr About:
- creamy formula is applies very smoothly
- colour is full and rich
- easy to sharpen
- price is on par with other lip liners of this quality

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
During the summer, I rarely wear lipliner - I prefer a quick and light lip product because of the hot weather. However, this is a great lip liner and definitely something I would use in the fall/winter months. It applies extremely smoothly and goes on in a nice, rich, creamy way that you often don't get with lipliners. The shade that I tried is very similar to my past lipliners, so the colour works really well for me.

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: GOSH press kit

NEW Product: CoverGirl Eye Enhancers Blast Shades

As most beauty-addicts already know, this summer is all about the bright, BRIGHT colours. To keep up with this trend, CoverGirl has released a really colourful collection of pressed eye powders, "Blast" shades offer a bright, bold look.

Silky, sheer formula contains soft, fine, micro-sized powder particles and the applicator features a soft sponge tip.

Watch for a product review coming soon!

1-Kit Shades, approx. $4.99 CAD
- Gold Sizzle
- Lime Alive
- Kaboom Kelly
- Turquoise Tempest
- Shimmering Onyx
- Golden Sunrise
- Indigo Impact
- Purple Pop
- Knock Out PInk
- Melt-Down Mauve

3-Kit Shades, approx. $6.99 CAD
- Firecracker
- Blazing Blues

4-Kit Shades, approx. $6.99 CAD
- Tropical Fusion
- Dynamite Drama

images: marieclaire.com

Product Review: Anastasia Five Item Brow Kit

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Anastasia
Name: Five Item Brow Kit
Size: n/a
Price: approximately $65 USD

Created by renowned brow expert Anastasia Soare, the Anastasia line has everything you would ever need to make your own eyebrows flawless.

Providing you with the basics, the Anastasia Five Item Brow Kit includes these indispensable brow-shaping tools:
- Instruction Guide
- Precision Tweezers - made of high-quality rust-proof steel, with a slanted tip and calibrated tension
- Brow Powder Duo - a two-shade compact of transfer-resistant brow powder
- four Brow Stencils - made of durable plastic to withstand time and usage
- one Duo Brush (Angled Cut / Spooley) - essential for grooming brows and everyday application of brow products
- Clear Brow Gel - fortified with botanical hair conditioners and essential oils to keep unruly brows in place all day long

Shade Tried:
- Medium Ash

To Purr About:
- instructions are super-easy to follow (only four steps!)
- I found it really easy to measure my eyebrow length, use the stencil and the products
- stencils are soft, so you can easily pat them against your face shape
- brow gel didn't flake off
- kit comes in a handy little case

Claws Out:
- the tweezers were a little big for my hand, so I found it harder to control than my usual tweezers, which are shorter
- is a little pricey

Final Comments:
Previously, I had always gotten my eyebrows threaded, but for the past year, I've been plucking them myself because I just can't afford to go get my eyebrows done as often as I need to (the girl I go to is one of the best in Toronto and charges about $30). So I was really excited to try this kit out and see the results. I was amazed at how easy it was to follow the instructions. In a few minutes I was able to give myself really nicely shaped brows!

It's a little expensive, but it's definitely worth the investment. If you're like me and used to pay for eyebrow grooming, this is a lot cheaper in the long-run!

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: anastasia.net

NEW Product Line: M.A.C. Electro Flash

"Mineralize Eye Shadow in nine new duos with unblinking courage, and convincing new combinations. Add Lipglass and Lipsticks with quantum physics energy, in companion colours and electro-lustres. Electricity is our most precious resource...everybody, electrified!" (description from MAC site)

Although I'm not a fan of the eye shadows, I'm loving the lipsticks and lip glosses in this collection!


Lipstick, 3 g / 0.1 us. oz., $16.50 CAD
Colour plus texture for the lips.
- Vanity's Child (lustre): sheer pale beige with pearl
- Fast Thrill (frost): frosty clean midtone pink with pearl
- Mellow Mood (lustre): glossy midtone dirty pink with pearl
- Dangerously Hot (amplified): creamy deep brown red

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.
- Cultureclash: frosty clear baby pink with multidimensional pearl
- Li' Hit Pepper: frosty burnt red with multidimensional pearl
- Major Minor: frosty midtone beige with multidimensional pearl
- Sonic Vibe: frosty midtone pink with multidimensional pearl

Mineralize Eye Shadow (Duo), 2.2 g / 0.07 oz, $21.00 CAD
Highly-pigmented powder that applies evenly and blends well.
- Play on Plums (frost): peachy gold with pink and bronze veining / bronzed burgundy mono
- Odd Couple (frost): warm gold with lavender and bronze veining / purple mono
- Sea & Sky (frost): silvery pale blue with deep blue and silver veining / bright blue mono
- Fresh Green Mix (frost): golden olive with blue, gold and acqua veining / lime mono
- Two to Glow (frost): dirty bronze with pink and orange veining / orange mono
- Pink Split (frost): dirty rose with bronze and pale blue veining / pink with gold pearl mono
- Hot Contrast (frost): dirty red with silver and black veining / black mono
- Polar Opposite (frost): dirty purple with silver, indigo and pink veining / true silver mono
- Love Connection (frost): pale beige with gold and blue veining / warm gold mono

images: maccosmetics.com

NEW Product: M.A.C. Sonic Chic

Brand: M.A.C.
Name: Sonic Chic
Size: 3.5 g / 0.11 us oz
Price: $25 CDN

"Mineralize Blush to break the style barrier: Screamingly chic, but soft, sheer, lightweight. Enhance cheekbones, create planes and contours with the 181 Buffer Brush for flawless blending. The fastest route to perfection yet is Ultra-Sonic." (from the MAC web site)


Shades:
- Love Thing - dirty burgundy with gold pearl
- Pleasantry - intense mid-tone blue pink with gold pearl
- Merrily - mid-tone dirty (burned) red with gold pearl
- Love Joy - warm mid-tone brown with gold pearl
- Gentle - raspberry with gold pearl
- Gleeful - deep dirty blue pink with gold pearl
- Nuance - mid-tone peach with gold pearl
- Warm Soul - mid-tone beige with gold pearl
- Dainty - light yellow pink with gold pearl

image: maccosmetics.com

Allure's Readers' Choice Awards 2008

I love Readers' Choice Awards because I feel that these are products that I would actually use and be able to afford. In fact, just glancing through the list, many of the winners are products that are sitting in my beauty case now.

I particularly like Allure's awards because they have 2 categories: Drugstore and Department Store.

Drugstore: includes American chains such as Walgreens, CVS, Wal-Mart and Target

Department Store: includes Macy's, Neiman Marcus, specialty stores like Sephora, Bath & Body Works, direct-sales and online companies like Avon and products sold at spas and salons.

MAKEUP

Lipstick - Drugstore: L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour in Mica
Lipstick - Department Store: M.A.C. Lustre Lipstick in Viva Glam V
Lip Gloss - Drugstore: (tie) Cover Girl WetSlicks Fruit Spritzers in Guava Splash and Neutrogena MoistureShine Gloss in Dreamy
Lip Gloss - Department Store: M.A.C. Lipglass in Viva Glam V
Blush Drugstore: Cover Girl Cheekers Blush in Natural Twinkle
Blush - Department Store: Nars Blush in Orgasm
Eye Shadow - Drugstore: Revlon ColorStay 12 Hour Eyeshadow Quad in Coffee Bean
Eye Shadow - Department Store: M.A.C. Eye Shadow in Shroom
Eyeliner - Drugstore: Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner in Black
Eyeliner - Department Store: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Black Ink
Mascara - Drugstore: Maybelline New York Great Lash Mascara
Mascara - Department Store: Dior Diorshow Mascara
Concealer - Drugstore: Maybelline New York Instant Age Rewind Double Face Perfector
Concealer - Department Store: Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Multi-Tasking Minerals
Foundation - Drugstore: L'Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Makeup SPF 17
Foundation - Department Store: Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Foundation SPF 15

BODY

Body Scrub - Drugstore: Neutrogena Body Clear Body Scrub
Body Scrub - Department Store: Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish
Body Lotion - Drugstore: Olay Body Quench
Body Lotion - Department Store: Bath & Body Works Cherry Blossom Body Lotion
Self-Tanner - Drugstore: Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer
Self-Tanner - Department Store: Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel

SKIN

Facial Cleanser - Drugstore: Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towlettes
Facial Cleanser - Department Store: Philosophy Purity Made Simple
Facial Scrub - Drugstore: St. Ives Apricot Scrub Blemish & Blackhead Control
Facial Scrub - Department Store: Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream
Anti-Aging Product - Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream
Anti-Aging Product - Department Store: Clinique Repairwear Intensive Eye Cream Facial Moisturizer - Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream
Facial Moisturizer - Department Store: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

HAIR

Shampoo - Drugstore: John Frieda Collection Shampoo in Sheer Blonde, Brilliant Brunette and Radiant Red
Shampoo - Department Store: Redken All Soft Shampoo
Conditioner - Drugstore: Pantene Pro-V Always Smooth Conditioner
Conditioner - Department Store: Redken All Soft Conditioner
Volumizer - Drugstore: Garnier Volume Inject Mousse
Volumizer - Department Store: Bumble and Bumble Thickening Spray
Defrizzer - Drugstore: John Frieda Collection Frizz-Ease Hair Serum Original Formula
Defrizzer - Department Store: Fekkai Glossing Cream
Home Hair Color - Drugstore: (tie) Clairol Natural Instincts and L'Oreal Paris Feria

NAILS

Natural-Looking Polish - Drugstore: Sally Hansen No Chip 10 Day Nail Color in Infinite Natural
Natural-Looking Polish - Department Store: Essie Nail Polish in Mademoiselle
Bright Nail Polish - Drugstore: Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear in Fuchsia Power
Bright Nail Polish - Department Store: OPI Nail Lacquer in Charged Up Cherry

FRAGRANCE

Classic Fragrance - Drugstore: (tie) Love's Baby Soft and Jovan White Musk
Classic Fragrance - Department Store: Chanel No. 5
New Fragrance - Drugstore: Intimately Beckham Women
New Fragrance - Department Store: (tie) L.A.M.B. by Gwen Stefani and Marc Jacobs Daisy
Men's Fragrance - Drugstore: (tie) Old Spice and Drakkar Noir
Men's Fragrance - Department Store: Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio

Splendid Reads for July 19 & 20

From the Splendicity community, comes this week best in beauty, fashion and shopping.

FASHION

Tops 2 Bottoms gets some styling inspiration from Military-inspired waistcoats.

Style Manila invites readers to say hi to makers of fabulous dresses.

Style...a work in progress asks what four words you'd use to describe your style?

Lucy of the chic tee-shirt line Rose La Biche answers some questions about her design life for Indie Style File

Her Accessories has been scoping out the Fall handbag previews and like what she sees!

Vote for your favorite celebrity look of the week over at CelebLOOK.

Just A Formality loves this silk and satin champagne gown from Tadashi.

SHOPPING

Bullitt (the cat) over at NY Spender has found a great deal: skinny jeans for only $39.00!

Shopalicious is tickled pink by a cute chemise for $23.90, and invites you try your chance to win a $25 certificate from Oh Cheri!

ShopDiary is craving for Eairth, an edgy yet sustainable clothing line.

Check out this Chloe suede ankle boot with an open back at Shoe Blitz.

Glamour Gift Guide adores this L.A.M.B. ombre patent tote in glossy red.

BEAUTY

Beauty and Fashion Tech tells you how to kill calluses and soften your feet with AB Skin Care Happy Feet.

Beauty Secrets Revealed is giving away 6 Bestselling Skin Care e-books.

Viva Woman finds out if your sunscreens can double up as moisturizers.

Beauty Bento Box experiments on a couple of Dove hair care products formulated for coloured or treated hair.

Looking for a eco-friendly way to dry your hair? All That & a tries the new Barbar eco 800 hair dryer and loves it!

Krizia from Beauty Match talks to Dr. Paul Cohen about Skincare cosmetic rejuvenation treatments for men over 35.

The Mineral Makeup Blog features a review about the newly reformulated, talc and paraben free Alison Raffaele Mineral Concealer

Cinnamon Kitten checks out the colourful and popular Danish cosmetics line - Gosh Cosmetics - now available in Canada!

Be my friend on MySpace

CinnamonKitten has decided to join the fray and has created a MySpace account. I never was one for these huge "popularity contest" sites, but I think it would be a great chance to connect with readers and have another way to chat about beauty products and find out what's happening around the world.

So, if you're on MySpace and want to say hi, add me! My MySpace ID is cinnamonkittenblog and my page is here:

http://www.myspace.com/cinnamonkittenblog

Product Review: CoverGirl TruBlend Minerals Blush

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: CoverGirl
Name: TruBlend Minerals Blush
Size: 18 g
Price: Approx. $14 CAD

I recently tried Covergirl’s TRUblend Pressed Mineral Foundation and absolutely loved it, so I was excited to try their other mineral based products.

I have tried a couple of other mineral blushes, but they didn’t seem as effective as my normal non-mineral blushes, but since I was so happy with Covergirl’s TRUblend mineral foundation I just had to give it another shot.

"Blush in a hue that's true to you! This sheer loose powder blush contains natural minerals that instantly give a brightened appearance, for a natural-looking kiss of color." From CoverGirl’s website.

To Purr About:
- available in 2 shades
- very light and airy feeling
- affordable price
- doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin
- comes with a powder press for application

Claws Out:
- obviously not convenient to carry around for touch-ups
- creates a bit of a mess during application
- the powder press it comes with is not very good for applying mineral makeup
- very shiny, has gold flecks in it
- a little too light looking (not blush enough)

Final Comments:
This product is very light & airy feeling which is a definite must for me. The only major flaws with this product were that I had to apply quite a bit for my flushed look and it was a bit too shiny for my liking due to the gold flecks in it. I might pick up the other shade next time - I think this shade (Shimmering Sands) might work better with lighter skin tones, but seeing as I’m not cosmetician it’s probably better to consult the salesperson when buying to make sure you choose the right shade.

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: covergirl.com

NEW Product Line: GOSH Cosmetics

GOSH Cosmetics, the bold Danish cosmetic line gaining popularity in Europe and around the world, has now made its Canadian debut. Shoppers Drug Mart is the exclusive retailer of GOSH in Canada and the line is now available at more than 200 stores across the country.

Glamour, In Style, Cosmopolitan and Seventeen are just a few of the magazines raving about this adventurous line. Known for expressing loud, primary colours in daring new ways, GOSH Cosmetics has worked its magic within the entire colour spectrum over the years, offering a vast array of stylish hues. Each season, GOSH unveils limited-edition products and shades in tandem with the European market and leading the hottest global beauty trends.


Shoppers Drug Mart carries a range of core GOSH Cosmetics products:

GOSH Quattro Eye Shadow, $18 CAD
- features 4 complimentary colours in a sleek, circular package

GOSH Velvet Touch Eye Liner, $12 CAD
- smooth, defined finish
- dramatic shades such as Blue Lagoon and Metallic Brass
- available in a waterproof version to avoid smudging

GOSH Amazing Length’n Build Waterproof Mascara, $10 CAD

GOSH Lip Gloss, $14 CAD
- make a statement with luscious lips

GOSH Velvet Touch Lip Liner, $10 CAD
- available in an array of colours

Also available is the GOSH Golden Glamour line for Summer 2008 full of metallic shine!

GOSH Giant Sun Powder, $25 CAD
- add a subtle sheen to your cheeks with this lustrous pressed powder

GOSH Trio Eye Shadow, $16 CAD
- Silver Fox or Gold Digger eyes are sure to seduce

GOSH Effect Powder, $12 CAD
- Steel and Glamour shades combine edge and elegance for a dramatic look

GOSH Extreme Art Eye Liner, $15 CAD
- these Gold and Silver liners are stylish and extremely waterproof

images: Gosh press kit

Product Review: Zensation Bio Regenerating Serum

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: Zensation
Name: Bio Regenerating Serum
Size: 30 mL
Approx. Price: $150 USD

I am always on the lookout for new products to try on my extremely sensitive and stubborn skin and was intrigued when I found out about this product.

Zensation’s products are free from alcohol, colorant, synthetic fragrance, animal ingredients, mineral oils and parabens derivatives to preserve the purity and effectiveness, thus minimizing any allergic reactions.

From the website: "Bio Regenerating Serum is enriched with liposomes which contain Echinacea Extract for soothing, moisturizing and regenerative virtues. They also present anti-aging, anti-blotch, antiseptic, firming and anti-oxidising properties."

To Purr About:
- subtle scent of roses that is very nice
- convenient pump dispenser
- gorgeous glass bottle
- my extremely allergy prone skin did not have any allergic reactions to it
- actually seems to make my skin smoother and softer

Claws Out:
- it is currently hard to find this product in North America
- price

Final Comments:
I guess beauty comes with a price. All-in-all a very good product, I only wish it was more easily found in North America, but I guess I just have to be patient. Just thinking about the plethora of beauty products that we’ve never even heard of in Canada makes me drool.

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: zensationbeaute.com

Product Review: Costa Blu Body Lotion

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Costa Blu
Name: Body Lotion
Size: 250 mL
Price: approx. $7.99 CAD

Scent Tried: Honey, Lemon and Sweet Almond

The Costa Blu line is a new line, just launched this past spring and is a premium line of bath and body products only available at Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada. At affordable prices, women can now enjoy spa-like products at home.

There are 3 fragrance combinations available:
- Honey, Lemon and Sweet Almost (which I tried)
- Bergamot, Orange and Grapeseed
- Rosemary, Fennel and Olive

Other products in the line include Body Wash, Dry Oil Body Spray and scented candles.

To Purr About:
- heavenly scent is light and refreshing
- lotion is light
- absorbs quickly
- makes my skin soft , feels hydrated
- gorgeous blue packaging

Claws Out:
- although skin is moisturized, it's not "silky soft"

Final Comments:
I love the packaging of this product, the deep blue colour is so relaxing and gorgeous. The lotion is light and the fragrance is lovely. I hope that they expand this line past body washes and lotions - it would be great to have other products to expand my spa experience!

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.

Product Revew: Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Secret
Name: Clinical Strength Antiperspirant/Deodorant
Size: 2.6 oz / 73 g
Approx. Price: $9 USD

The Secret Clinical Strength anti-perspirant/deodorant was a recent winner of the Allure Best of Beauty Readers’ Choice Award - Breakthrough Award and is a clinically proven and doctor endorsed prescription strength wetness protection without a prescription anti-perspirant/deodorant. Available in 3 distinct products including Hypo-Allergenic, Light and Fresh, and Powder Fresh.

This is different from some other antiperspirants I've tried as it's formulated for nighttime application.

To Purr About:
- very good antiperspirant
- light scent wasn't overpowering or too fragrant
- didn't leave any white marks on my clothes (if applied properly and allowed to dry)

Claws Out:
- instructions are to apply this product at bedtime, which is a little weird to me
- since I was applying it at night, I didn't really like that it was fragranced

Final Comments:
This antiperspirant works really well, although it took me a little while to get used to applying it at bedtime as opposed to in the morning when I was getting to dressed. I don't really think the fragrance was necessary since I'm wearing this overnight, but it wasn't a major issue.

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: secret.com

NEW Product: Bodyform tins

Bodyform, a UK brand of feminine hygiene products, is launching an exciting new partnership with the Preen fashion label and is unveiling a stylish set of 4 new protective tins designed by Preen, the British fashion label of Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi.

While this doesn't have much to do with beauty, I'm a sucker for a cute tin and also I'm sure a lot of girls would love to have these cute tins in their purse to hold some items that they'd rather not have accidentally fall out of their purses!

Consultant relationship psychologist and life coach, Anjula Mutanda, has given her professional analysis of the 4 unique and feminine designs and what each says about the woman who chooses it: a candy pink floral tin for the romantic and creative woman with a ‘secret desire for passion and intimacy’; a lavender tin with a celery green bow to suit the ‘witty, youthful and go-getting’ character; a tangerine and sky blue tin with bird cage pattern for the ‘smart, persuasive and dynamic’ woman; and a crimson red tin with woven fish net pattern for the ‘more daring and flirty character who is not afraid to let her naughty side out to play.’


The 4 tins have been designed by Preen exclusively for Bodyform and will be available on special packs in-store from May to July 2008 (subject to availability and while stocks last). The tins have been designed to provide a discreet, fun and fashionable way for women to carry feminine products.

Bodyform is stocked in major supermarkets and pharmacies across the UK.

image: press release

The Cutting Chair Hair Gallery

I love my hairdresser, Ivan. He's like my favourite guy, after my husband, of course. I can bring in any photo of any hairstlye and Ivan will make me look good in it.

The problem is that sometimes I have a hairstyle image in my head, but I can't find a good photo of it online. I hate paying money for hair magazines and then STILL not find what I'm looking for, so usually I rely on the Internet.

There are a lot of web galleries of hairstyles, but often they're really small thumbnails or when I try to print them out they end up really small or blurry.

Well, I've just been introduced to The Cutting Chair - a great new web site that's devoted to all things hairstlye.


A slick-looking site filled with tons of useful hair info, one of my favourite features is the Style Gallery. Filled with great hundreds of photos for both men and women, you can browse through the categories, like bob, ethnicity (I love that they have a category for Asian hair!) or search hairstyles by length, texture, facial shape and colour. The gallery is constantly growing so the odds of finding something you like are really good! And another bonus point - each photo has a "printer friendly" option!

I've already spent hours browsing through this site, learning cool hair tips, picking out my next hairstyle and reading the useful articles, so go check it out yourself - www.thecuttingchair.com.

Bath & Body Works Coming to Canada!

I was first introduced to Bath & Body Works by a good friend, who would rave about the great products and amazing deals they had at this store in the US, but I had never been to one myself until last year. When I first stepped into a B&BW I went crazy! Everything smelled so good and of course, who can resist those pump-bottle soaps at 5 for $15 USD???

I was super excited to read that B&BW is going to open stores in Canada!!!

Limited Brands Inc., the company that owns B&BW has unveiled the locations for six Canadian B&BW stores set to open this fall.

Three of the stories will be in the GTA: at Yorkdale, Fairview and Erin Mills Town Centre. The other locations include Stone Road mall in Guelph, Whiteoaks in London and the West Edmonton Mall.

Product Review: Pantene Pro-V Always Smooth Anti-Frizz Serum

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Pantene Pro-V
Name: Always Smooth Anti-Frizz Serum
Size: 50 ml
Price: approx. $5.99 CAD

Thie anti-frizz serum claims to:
- help hair resist humidity
- smooth frizz and provide shiny, healthy-looking style
- help protect hair from everyday styling damage

To Purr About:
- nice light fragrance
- made my hair silky smooth and very soft
- the recommended amount was enough to tame my frizzy hair
- I used it after towelling off my hair and before blow-drying - usually after blow-drying, my hair is really frizzy and puffy, but after using this serum it was much better. Not perfectly smooth, but noticeably tamer

Claws Out:
- the serum is really oily and leaves a greasy, slick coating on hands after use. I had to wash my hands for several minutes with lots of soap to get rid of the oil

Final Comments:
This serum really did tame the frizzies and made my just-washed hair nice and smooth. The pump is really convenient, but the oily-residue on my hands was a bit of a turn-off. There was no oil-feel on the hair though, so it must be only on the hands. The fragrance is light, but I would have preferred an unscented version so that it doesn't compete with my shampoo/conditioner.

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: pantene.ca

Product Review: CoverGirl TRUBlend Liquid Makeup

Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: CoverGirl
Name: TRUblend Liquid Makeup
Size: 30 mL
Price: approximately $14 CAD

Shade Tried: 3 - Natural Beige

I recently tried CoverGirl’s TRUblend Pressed Mineral Foundation and absolutely loved it, so I was excited to try the liquid makeup they offer.

"TruBlend Liquid Makeup has colorspheres that go beyond just matching your skin tone to actually merge with your skin, for a naturally flawless look."

To Purr About:
- available in 6 shades
- very smooth – blended well on to my skin
- not oily
- very light and airy feeling
- looks very natural
- affordable price
- doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin
- convenient pump dispenser
- easier and less messy to apply than mineral makeup

Claws Out:
- obviously not convenient to carry around for touch-ups (would need to carry a mirror and sponge in addition to the bottle itself)
- does not reduce shine
- does not cover as well as the mineral powder

Final Comments:
I'm overly impressed with this product. CoverGirl sure has come a long way from when I was a teenager. The liquid makeup was light and airy and helped even out my skin tone. However, as I noted above, it didn’t cover as well as their TRUblend mineral powder (which I was SUPER impressed with), so I think for now I’m going to stick with that.

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: CoverGirl PR contact

GUEST Product Review: Every Man Jack Citrus Body Wash & Shower Scrub

Guest Reviewer: DC

Brand: Every Many Jack
Name: Citrus Body Wash & Shower Scrub
Size: 355 mL / 12 fl oz
Approx. Price: $5 CAD

To Purr About:
- great citrus smell
- not harsh on my skin like other scrubs were
- lathers up really well
- seemed to help exfoliate my skin

Claws Out:
- skin was not super moisturized afterwards

Final Comments:
I would definitely buy this body wash again.

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart.

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: everymanjack.com