celebrating...

Happy Holidays everyone! Hope you have a very Merry Christmas!!!

I hope Santa brings you everything on your wishlist (what beauty products did you ask for?) :)

Gift Idea: NARS Follow The Boys Lip Gloss Set

Brand: NARS
Name: Follow The Boys Lip Gloss Set
Size: 0.14 oz each
Price: $40 USD

One of the best things about holiday gift sets (besides making great gifts) is that often, you get to try smaller versions of really popular products, which is handy for the gal that wants to try it all, or for people who travel and want to bring along their favourite products.


This new NARS holiday gift set (exclusive to Sephora) includes a set of 4 shiny medium-sized lip glosses.

Includes:
- Moon Fleet: clear with silver and gold flecks
- Easy Lover: sheer hot pink
- Turkish Delight: pink sorbet
- Sweet Revenge: sheer pink grapefruit

image: press release

Gift Idea Guide: Making Scents of the Holidays for Women

To follow up on the "Making Scents of the Holidays for Men" post, today I'm featuring just a small sampling of the plethora of womens' fragrances available this holiday season. Besides having aisles and aisles of choices, there are a lot of pretty perfume solids out there as well.

This is going to be an even longer post than the Men's, and I'm just scratching the tip of the iceberg here. I've also included some celebrity-created/inspired scents as those are usually popular gift ideas as well. Again, to get to what you need to know, I'm taking away all the fluff and filler, leaving you with the important things: an image of the bottle, name, size, price and the fragrance breakdown.

Enjoy and happy shopping!

NOTES:
- all prices are approximate, retailers may sell for a different price
- images are based on press releases and may be slightly different in market and dependent on product you are buying


Guess Seductive
- scent: top notes: bergamot, blackcurrant, crispy pear; middle notes: orange flower, jasmine, orris; base notes: vanilla, olibanum, cashmere wood
- Eau de Toilette: 50 ml for $69 CAD, 75 ml for $85 CAD
- Body Cream: 200 ml for $35 CAD
- Shower Cream: 200 ml for $35 CAD


Givenchy Play for Her - Eau de parfum
- scent: top notes: pink peppercorns, white peach, bergamot, sweet pea; middle notes: tiare flower, magnolia flower and leaf, amyris wood; base notes: sandalwood, musks
- Eau de Parfum: 50 ml for $79 CAD, 75 ml for $95 CAD

Givenchy Play for Her - Eau de parfum Intense
- scent: top notes: pink peppercorns, orange blossom; middle notes: tiare flower, orchid, amyris wood; base notes: sandalwood, patchouli, tonka bean and benzoin
- Eau de Parfum: 50 ml for $85 CAD, 75 ml for $102 CAD


Mariah Carey Lollipop Bling Gumball Machine Gift Set
- A gumball machine gift set that includes all 3 flavors of Mariah Carey’s Lollipop Bling Collection. This gumball machine is refillable, making it the perfect keepsake!
- Comes with 1 fl. oz of each scent
- $70 USD

Ribbon
- scent: inspired by the flavor of the blue raspberry Ring Pop and combined with a beautiful floral bouquet

Mine Again
- scent: a combination of chocolate raspberry and magnolia

Honey
- scent: a touch of honey and pineapple

Daisy Marc Jacobs Solid Perfume Ring
A New Daisy solid perfume dome ring - an over-sized ring with a scattering of white daisies across a black lacquer dome. The ring comes in a black velvet pouch.
- scent: strawberry, violet leaves, ruby red grapefruit, gardenia, violet petals, jasmine petals, musk, vanilla, white woods
- Daisy Solid Perfume Ring: $42 CAD


Calvin Klein Beauty
- scent: top notes: ambrette seeds; middle notes: jasmine; base notes: cedarwood
- Eau de Parfum spray: 50 ml for $89 CAD; 100 ml for $115 CAD
- Bath & Shower Creme: 200 ml for $48 CAD
- Skin Lotion: 200 ml for $60 CAD

Calvin Klein Beauty Solid Perfume Compact
A limited edition solid perfume purse charm with a metallic, chrome finish.
- scent: top notes: ambrette seeds; middle notes: jasmine; base notes: cedarwood
- Solid Perfume Purse Charm: 1.2 g for $50 CAD


Beyonce Heat Ultimate Elixir
- scent: red vanilla orchid, osmanthus petals, cedarwood, amber, vanilla, tonka bean
- Elixir: 50 ml for $75 CAD


Harajuku Lovers Wicked Style
Gwen Stefani and her Harajuku girls are back, this time sporting some "wicked style"

love - "Sweet Lolita" - a fruity floral
- scent: top notes: nectarine, mangosteen, juicy pear; middle notes: orange flower, lotus, violet, osmanthus; base notes: blonde woods, musk, sandalwood, hint of patchouli, dash of praline

lil angel - "Gothic Lolita" - a sparkling floral
- scent: top notes: succulent plum, champagne, bergamont, pomelo; middle notes: blooming lotus, fresh queen rose leaf, waterlillies; base notes: satin wood, rich amber, skin musks

music - "Visual Kei" - a woody floral
- scent: top notes: juicy apple, watery fruit, bergamont; middle notes: jasmine, gardenia, fuschia, peony; base notes: swirling cedarwood, iridescent musks, cyrstallized amber

baby - "Kawaii/Decora" - a vanilla floral
- scent: top notes: white peach, Red Delicious apple, pink freesia; middle notes: pink plumeria, lush orchid, jasmine petals; base notes: glowing amber; sensual musk, creamy sandalwood

g - "Omotesando Girl" - a fruity floral
- scent: top notes: Granny Smith apple, peach pineapple; middle notes: watermelon, butterfly blush, peony; base notes: raspberry, musk, water aqeous



Love and Glamour by Jennifer Lopez
- scent: top notes: guava, nectarine; middle notes: orchid, waterlilly; base notes: sandalwood, musk
- Eau de Parfum: 1.7 oz for $49.50 USD, 2.5 oz for $58 USD
- Body Lotion: 6.7 oz for $25 USD


Halle Pure Orchid by Halle Berry
- scent: top notes: amalfi lemon, papaya and cactus; middle notes: star anise, orchid and blackberry; base notes: patchouli, tonka bean and sequoia
- Eau de Parfum: 15 ml for $16 USD, 30 ml for $28 USD


Purr by Katy Perry
- scent: top notes: peach nectar, apple; middle notes: jasmine blossom, Bulgarian rose, vanilla orchid; base notes: creamy sandalwood, musk
- Eau de Parfum: 1.7 oz for $45 USD, 3.4 oz for $65 USD


Juicy Couture Couture Couture Solid Perfume Ring
- ring size 7
- scent: top notes: pink grape accord, orange flower, mandarin, middle notes: blushed plum, honeysuckle, star jasmine, base notes: creamy sandalwood, moist amber, vanilla
- Solid perfume: 0.023 oz for $42 USD


DKNY Be Delicious Eau de Toilette
- scent: American apple, cucumber, grapefruit, candid magnolia, tuberose, white muguet, rose, violet, sandalwood, tender skin accord, blonde woods, white amber
- Eau de Toilette Spray: 1 oz for $36 USD, 1.7 oz for $52 USD

Gift Idea Guide: Making Scents of the Holidays for Men

During the holidays, lots of brands offer their scents in beautiful packaging, extra goodies with purchase, limited edition versions, etc. There have been so many in the past couple of weeks that my head has been spinning with all the new releases.

With the holidays just around the corner, I figured now is a good time to show off some of the season's newer scents and some holiday editions, in case you're still looking for a last minute gift idea or something new to wear to all those holiday parties you've been invited to!

Like I said, there's quite a bit out there, so this is going to be quite a long post (a post focusing on Women's will follow). To get to what you need to know, I'm taking away all the fluff and filler, leaving you with the important things: an image of the bottle, name, size, price and the fragrance breakdown.

Enjoy and happy shopping!

NOTES:
- all prices are approximate, retailers may sell for a different price
- images are based on press releases and may be slightly different in market and dependent on product you are buying


Marc Jacobs BANG
Bang is Marc Jacob's first masculine scent in almost a decade.
- scent: peppery, woody and spicy; elemi resinoid, aromatic benzoin, vetyver, white moss and patchouli
- Eau de Toilette spray: 50 ml for $69 CAD, 100 ml for $95 CAD
- After Shave Balm: 150 ml for $67 CAD
- Deodorant Stick: 75 g for $32 CAD


Pure Nautica
- scent: top notes: sea spray accord, mandarin, bergamot; middle notes: ambergris, saffron, lotus flower; dry down: driftwood, suede, patchouli
- Eau de Toilette: 50 ml for $57 CAD, 100 ml for $75 CAD


Davidoff Champion
- scent: top notes: bergamot, lemon; middle notes: galbanum essence, clary sage; dry down: cedarwood, oak moss
- Eau de Toilette: 50 ml for $65 CAD, 90 ml for 82 CAD


Dolce & Gabbana The One Gentleman
- scent: top notes: pepper, grapefruit, middle notes: lavender, patchouli; dry down: cedarwood, fennel, cardamom
- Eau de Toilette Spray: 1 oz for $42 USD, 1.6 oz for $57 USD, 3.3 oz for $73 USD


Ralph Lauren Polo Black Deluxe
A special deluxe-size of Polo Black.
- scent: iced mango, silver armoise, patchouli noir
- Eau de Toilette Spray: 6.7 oz for $82 USD


Burberry Brit Limited Edition For Men
- scent: bergamot, green mandarin, ginger accord, cardamom, cedarwood, wild rose, nutmeg, tonka beans, oriental woods accords, greay musk
- Eau de Toilette Spray: 3.3 oz for $72 USD

Product Review: Jurlique Love Balm

Reviewer: Annabella from Skin Scrubs

Brand: Jurlique
Name: : Love Balm
Size: 15ml / 0.5 oz
Price: GBP £10.00 / approx $16.50 CAD

Jurlique is an Australian skincare company that believes that high performance products can be made with natural ingredients. They have an extensive range including skincare, bath & body, haircare and a baby products. I've never used anything else from them and I have to admit I was drawn to this because of the name. This is scented with Tangerine oil which smells different from Orange, a bit sharper and less sweet. The formulation is very solid but it melts on contact, is quite smooth and not greasy.

I have already tried a few 'all purpose' balms and most never really live up to their name. They are usually too greasy/waxy or not moisturising enough. I was kind of expecting this to be the same and when I first started using it it just felt like a nice lip balm. However I recently had a cold and with that comes the usual dry irritation around my nose from using tissues every few minutes. I decided try this on my flaky skin and it felt wonderful and didn't sting like moisturisers usually do. I continued to use it until my skin was back to normal.

This contains Vitamin E, Soybean oil, Safflower oil, Tangerine oil

To Purr About:
- the scent lovely and fresh
- nice smooth formulation not waxy or greasy
- helped my chapped skin
- works well on lips quite moisturising

Claws Out:
- a bit pricey for such a little tin

Final Comments:
While I found this worked really well on my lips and chapped facial skin, it wasn't so great on my elbows or hands. I think it's really difficult to create one product that works on facial and body skin because there is always going to be imbalance.

The other thing I would like point out is that we normally don't get the weather extremes in Nottingham like you do in Toronto [editor's note: as many of you know, Cinnamon Kitten and Suziesaurus both live in the Toronto area]. This balm is alright for the weather here but might not be effective enough for your harsher winter weather.

Rating (out of 5):



Disclosure: This product was purchased by Annabella.

Gift Idea: Eos Lip Balm Smooth Sphere Holiday Bag

Brand: eos
Name: Lip Balm Smooth Sphere Holiday Bag
Price: $9.99 USD


This little gift set would make a perfect stocking stuffer. Just in time for the holidays, eos has introduced a lip balm holiday gift bag which includes 3 of their adorable lip balm smooth spheres (full size) in a reusable cosmetic pouch.

Includes:
- Honeysuckle Honeydew
- Sweet Mint
- Pomegranate Raspberry (limited edition)

All eos lip balms are made with antioxidant-rich vitamin E, shea butter and jojoba oil

- 100% natural & USDA certified organic (made with 95% certified organic ingredients)
- petrolatum-free and paraben-free
- soft-touch, recyclable packaging
- eco-friendly, reusable cosmetic bag

image: press release

NEW Product: Hotheads 3D Bristle Pattern Brush

Brand: Hotheads
Name: 3D Bristle Pattern Brush
Price:
- small: $18 USD
- medium: $24.50 USD
- large: $29.50

The new Hotheads’ 3D Bristle Pattern Brush claims to dry your hair faster by 50-60%!

The ultra light 3D Bristle Pattern Brush is made with 3 types of bristles that not only help decrease dry time, but improve the overall health of your hair. The patented-shaped barrel gives ultimate control and cuts drying time in half whether adding volume, curls or an amazing flat iron-finish.

Other features include:
- White boar bristles control frizz and add shine;
- Black boar bristles grip for great smoothing, volume or curl;
- Single pinned firm nylon with round tips is designed to handle all hair types;
- Easily detangles hair and is gentle on the scalp;
- Available in 3 sizes: S, M, L.

image: press release

Product Review: Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Firming Moisture SPF20 Day Lotion

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Neutrogena
Name: : Ageless Intensives Firming Moisture SPF20 Day Lotion
Size: 50 ml
Price: approx. $20.99 USD

I've always had good experiences with Neutrogena products, so I was excited to try their new Firming Moisture SPF20 Day Lotion.

From the website: "Reverse even the stubborn signs of aging. Lightweight, moisturizing day formula reveals resilient, firmer-looking skin that appears noticeably younger starting in just 2 weeks.
- 97% smoother, softer skin
- 82% reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- 97% improved appearance of

The Benefits of this product are:
- skin firmness
- Dermatologist tested
- Allergy tested
- Fragrance free

To Purr About:
- contains SPF20 to protect skin from the sun
- handy pump that has an on & off setting – making it great for travelling
- barely there scent
- not greasy
- leaves skin feeling moisturized throughout the day
- helps fight wrinkles
- doesn't irritate my super sensitive skin

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
I've been using this product for about a month now every day and I'm really enjoying it. I love that it has SPF20 to help protect me against the sun's harmful rays, but you can barely tell it has SPF unlike other products that smell and feel more like sunscreen than moisturizer. It also does not bother my super sensitive skin in any way and leaves my skin feeling moisturized. The best part is that it absorbs into my skin very quickly and does not feel greasy at all – making makeup application easy.

Also, with daily use I did find that it helped keep some of my more stubborn wrinkles away. I can`t really judge whether it`s making my skin any firmer as I don't have non-firm skin as a problem (that I know of), but it is a good moisturizer.

I think the only thing I would change is to make the bottle a little lighter (not glass) to make it better for travelling.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: neutrogena.ca

Gift Idea: tarte ring it in mini cheek stain and reusable ring set

Brand: tarte
Name: ring it in
Price: $25.00 USD / $33.00 CAD

This mini trio of our best selling, t5 infused natural cheek stains is back with new, limited edition shades and fashionably adorned with a reusable, universal-fit ring.

The botanical formula of these 3new natural cheek stains keeps pigments truer and as always allows you to blend into skin for a finish that's fresh and dewy.

Formulated without: parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, sythetic dyes, synthetic fragrance

3 new shades:
- luster: bronze champagne
- vivid: vibrant pink
- flawless: golden coral

skinvigorating™ ingredients:
- acai fruit extract: fight free radicals and promotes cell regeneration
- goji berry extract: antioxidant rich and nutrient dense super fruit
- pomegranate extract: high concentration of antioxidants and vitamin c
- acerola extract: brightens and helps fight skin damaging free radicals
- maracuja extract: reduces redness, irritation and inflammation of the skin

image: press release

NEW Product: skin by Monica Olsen Dead Sea Clay Masque

Brand: skin by Monica Olsen
Name: Dead Sea Clay Masque
Size: 8 oz
Price: $16.95 USD

Dead Sea mud has been known for centuries to be a wonderful beauty product that cleanses and detoxifies the skin, removing old skin cells and leaving the skin fresh and light. skin by Monica Olsen's Dead Sea Clay Masque has different minerals that absorbs impurities, minimizes break outs and reduces excess surface oil.

- Dermatologist test
- derived from organic ingredients and essential oils

Ingredients:
- Dead Sea Clay
- Vitamin A & E
- Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
- Fennel Seed Extract
- Citric Acid

image: press release

Product Review: Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Rimmel
Name: Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation
Size: 1 fl oz / 30 mL
Price: n/a

Shade Tried: 201 Classic Beige

From their website: "Face it, your day is stressful. Early mornings, late nights. You give more than 100% everyday. Shouldn’t your makeup? Introducing Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation. Rimmel’s first transfer-resistant foundation that lasts a full 25 hours. Formula with revitalising Mineral Complex helps re-energise overworked skin. No sign of makeup fatigue for a full 25 hours. Color stays true and color can’t fail. With a moisturising Aqua Primer so skin feels hydrated and comfortable all day. Skin feels energised Skin feels hydrated Color can’t fail Face it, you’re more than a 24-hour woman. Shouldn’t your makeup last as long as you do?"

To Purr About:
- available in 11 great shades
- blends well
- provides good coverage to even out the skin tone
- lasted the whole day
- affordable price

Claws Out:
- doesn’t come with a application tool which makes it harder for on-the-go and touch-ups
- texture is a bit watery which can make application tricky if you’re not careful
- heavier than mineral foundations

Final Comments:
It’s been a while since I used a liquid foundation, so I was excited to try Rimmel’s Lasting Finish Foundation.

I really enjoyed this product. It blended well and provided very good matte coverage to even out my skin tone and problem areas. It also seemed to last longer than my mineral makeup. I’m not sure if it lasted the full 25 hours, because I really hate having make up on for that long without giving my skin a breather, so I’ll have to take their word for it.

My only complaints were that it didn’t come with an application tool (typical of liquid foundations) which makes touch-ups on the go a bit tricky. I also found it a bit watery which made it difficult to control how much came out of the tube. And as with many other liquid foundations I found it a bit heavy, since I have extremely dry skin. I think on normal to oily skin this would not be an issue.

I’m really impressed with Rimmel products lately. I’ve been trying them more and more and they are great products and a very affordable price point.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: press release

Gift Idea: tarte good as gold lipgloss gift set

Brand: tarte
Name: good as gold lipgloss gift set
Price: $29 USD / $38 CAD

With 15 universally flattering glosses in shades that range from sheer to deep and shimmering to soft, this deluxe set is perfect for any woman on your list.

Formulated without: parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, sythetic dyes, synthetic fragrance

This limited edition set includes 15 glosses:
- bubble gum pink
- nude
- apricot
- vivid pink
- brown sugar
- apple red
- true pink
- soft peach
- mauve
- warm berry
- coral
- tawny brown
- deep raspberry
- whisper pink
- deep plum

skinvigorating™ ingredients:
- jojoba seed oil: easily absorbed hydrating oil leaves skin soft, supple and smooth
- mineral pigments: colors derived from natural minerals have been known to soothe and soften the skin
- t5 super fruit complex: proprietary blend of the 5 most active superfruits: goji, acai, maracuja, acerola and pomegranate

image: press release

Product Review: John Frieda Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: John Frieda
Name: Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner
Size: 250 ml
Price: approx. $17 CAD

I recently fell in love with John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease WeatherWorks Shampoo & Conditioner combo, but since I just ran out of both I decided it was time for a change and what better way to try something new, but stick with what I know works
than to try John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner?

John Frieda’s website advertises that the Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner:
- starts blocking frizz in the shower for easy styling
- with Frizz-Mending Complex, it smoothes strands, hydrates to replenish vital moisture and restores hairs natural defense against frizz
- leaves parched tresses silky, shiny and highly manageable
- helps create sleek, supple, shimmering and frizz-resistant strands
- safe for colour-treated hair

To Purr About:
- makes hair feel silky-smooth and healthy
- helps tame my unruly hair
- makes my hair very shiny looking

Claws Out:
- scent is a little stronger than I usually like

Final Comments:
Similarly to the Weather Works product from the same Frizz-Ease line, I definitely enjoy using this product and give it 2 thumbs up. As a result of continued use, my hair is definitely super moisturized and healthy feeling and super smooth. I wish this line had come out sooner! I love it and it definitely has stopped any frizzing & flyaways! I’ve even recently noticed that some days I don’t even need to use any styling products on my hair which is quite amazing for the cut that I have.

If I had to name one con about this product is that it is slightly strong scented compared to its counterparts in the same product family. Still, I got used to the scent very quickly, but I thought it was worth mentioning.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: johnfrieda.ca

Gift Idea: NARS Sweet Disposition Mini Multiple Set

Brand: NARS
Name: Sweet Disposition Mini Multiple Set
Price: $40 USD


A lovely collection of 3 mini Multiples for eyes, lips, and cheeks, in shades that shimmer, highlight, and sculpt. The creamy formula blends effortlessly, making these multi-tasking masters are a must-have for the holidays.

Includes:
- Orgasm
- Luxor
- Malibu

image: narscosmetics.com

Gift Idea & NEW Product: Lise Watier Frisson Neiges

Brand: Lise Watier
Name: Frisson Neiges
Prices:
- Eau de toilette, 30 ml: $39 CAD
- Eau de toilette, 50 ml: $57 CAD

Recently launched last month, Lise Watier has introduced a new addition to their Nieges scent collection.

A modern, youthful and joyous interpretation of the original Neiges fragrance, Frisson Neiges unfurls a delicate, feminine, and contemporary chord, a refreshing composition that blends floral and fruity notes.

Opening notes: fresh, savoury notes of ripe papaya and lush passion fruit
Middle notes: in its heart is a combination of honeysuckle, tuberose nectar, and jasmine absolute
Closing notes: a background of warm Cashmeran and sandalwood, finally melting in a whisper of musk

Frisson Neiges comes packaged in the fragrance’s signature bottle, with its curving yet minimalist lines. The back is stamped with the familiar Neiges snowflakes, making it a perfect holiday gift. The Frisson Neiges bottle has its own personality with an iridescent, pink-tinged and sparkling appearance.

image: press release

Product Review: Yardley Moisturizing Bath Bar

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Yardley
Name: : Moisturizing Bath Bar
Size: 120 g / 4.25 oz
Price: approx. $3 USD

Scent Tried: Limited Edition Vanilla Sugar

From the packaging: "Our new Limited Edition Vanilla Sugar moisture bar hits the bath time sweet spot! With cocoa butter, oatmeal and wheat bran, Yardley’s recipe of nourishing and exfoliating ingredients turns out a savory seasonal treat."

To Purr About:
- subtle pleasant smell
- doesn’t irritate my super sensitive skin
- lathers up well
- leaves skin feeling very clean and rejuvenated

Claws Out:
- not as moisturizing as I would like for the cold weather
- not a very good exfoliant

Final Comments:
When I first opened the package of this Yardley bar soap I was excited to see it had pieces of oatmeal and wheat bran in it. I was also pleased that this bar wasn’t super strong in the aroma field as I sometimes get irritated with strong scents.

After using Yardley’s Limited Edition Vanilla Sugar Soap Bar for weeks I have to say that it is a nice subtle soap, but unfortunately it wasn’t moisturizing enough for my skin and the cold weather we’ve been getting lately. I was also finding myself a bit nervous when using this soap bar as I didn’t want to get any pieces of wheat bran or oatmeal stuck in my ear or eyes.

I think this soap may get a very different review in the summer months when my skin isn’t so dry (since I suffer from extremely dry and sensitive skin), but for now I think I’ll have to go back to my regulars.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: yardleylondon.com

NEW Product: Motif Hand Wash

Brand: Motif
Name: Hand Wash
Size: 8 oz
Price: $2.99 USD

Motif, the luxuriously designed, but affordably priced line of hand soaps, is launching a new collection of hand washes just for the holidays. Available through the holidays at Target stores, the new Motif Hand Washes are available in 3 fragrances and pretty patterns, as well as formulated with the healing and soothing properties of Aloe Vera.

Scents available:
- Pomegranate and Rose: fruity top notes of pomegranate and grapefruit combine with a delicate yet distinct rose floral note.
- Peppermint Bark: a delicious blend of peppermint, spearmint and a touch of chocolate make this a nostalgic holiday favorite
- Cypress and Pear: a woodland blend of rich cypress, cedar and green moss sweetened with a touch of pear

image: press release

Hitting 1,000

A little under three years ago I started this little blog as a place to share product reviews and meet other beauty product addicts. I never imagined that it would last for more than a couple of months, but thanks to the support of some wonderful beauty product companies, PR companies, beauty experts, and of course, my readers, Cinnamon Kitten has been going strong for almost three years and I just hit 1,000 posts this past weekend!

Thank you so much for all your continued support! I wouldn't be doing this without you!

Product Review: Lise Watier HydraSmart 3D Hydration Metamorphosis Cleansing Gelée

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Lise Watier
Name: : HydraSmart 3D Hydration Metamorphosis Cleansing Gelée
Size: 150 ml
Price: approx. $24 CAD

From the press release:
A healthy, radiant skin starts with cleansing formulas that are adapted to skin type.

The 3D Hydration Metamorphosis Cleansing Gelee of the Hydrasmart line has been specifically formulated for dry skin. This formula stands out because of its metamorphic texture that transforms twice rather than once, for an experience that is twice as soothing and comforting. From a cleansing gelée, it turns into an ultra-fine oil when massaged on skin, and then into a creamy emulsion upon contact with water.

Enriched with antioxidant blue lotus extract and moisturizing peptides, the soap-free formula of the 3D Hydration Metamorphosis Cleansing Gelee gently removes makeup and impurities, leaving skin perfectly cleansed, velvety-soft and comfortable.

To Purr About:
- soap and paraben free
- very gentle on the skin
- keeps skin clean and acne free and healthy feeling
- did not irritate my super sensitive sking

Claws Out:
- stiff tube packaging made it very difficult to get product out

Final Comments:
I used this product for a while and found it to be a very effective cleanser. While it does have an interesting gel texture that did turn into a creamy emulsion when put in contact with water I was more impressed with how super duper gentle it was on my skin, but removed dirt and kept skin problem free. My only complaint is that the packaging made it super difficult to get the product out – a softer plastic would have been preferred as it would have made for an easier time and also less wasted product in the end.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: lisewatier.com

Gift Idea: tarte the royal collection holiday palette

Brand: tarte
Name: the royal collection holiday palette
Price: $43 USD

This limited edition holiday palette in tarte's signature color is stacked with 16 exclusive shades of eyeshadows and deluxe sizes of our best selling products making this the ultimate gift to give and to receive!

Formulated without: parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, sythetic dyes, synthetic fragrance

Limited edition kit includes:
- 16 full size eyeshadows
- deluxe clean slate natural face primer
- deluxe lights, camera, lashes! clinically-proven natural mascara
- deluxe multiplEYE clinically-proven lash enhancing primer
- deluxe vitamin-infused lipgloss

skinvigorating™ ingredients:
- vitamin E: natural preservative acts as an anti-inflammatory emollient and fights free radical damage
- beeswax: acts as a protective barrier between the skin and the environment and it has also been known to decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- carnauba wax: emollient natural wax ensures a smooth application
- mineral pigments: colors derived from natural minerals have been known to soothe and soften the skin

image: press release

NEW Product: NARS Bento Box Set

Brand: NARS
Name: Bento Box Set
Price: $125 USD


Having just travelled to Tokyo, I love this new product from NARS. It's very, very limited, so if you're a big fan of NARS or lip products, get your piggy banks out and put your name on the wait list!

Years ago, after traveling to Japan, NARS Founder and Creative Director François Nars brought back a small, porcelain pot with a red film of color – Kabuki makeup for the lips.

Debuting this holiday season after years of development is the NARS Bento Box Set – a limited edition set of 2 Kabuki cups that were hand-poured with a new exclusive lipstick formula in highly pigmented shades containing Vitamin E. Housed in a handmade bento box, the set also comes with a Kabuki lip brush, designed for precise application by dipping the brush into the cup and blending until desired coverage is achieved.

Available as of November 1, 2010 for $125 at narscosmetics.com. This set is very limited - only 1,000 sets were created for sale in the US and just over 2,000 in total were created worldwide. You can get on the wait list now at narscosmetics.com/bento.

image: press release

Gift Idea: tarte the jewelry box palette and reusable necklace

Brand: tarte
Name: the jewelry box
Price: $52 USD / $68 CAD

This amazing, limited-edition palette is exclusive to Sephora and accessorized with a removable and wearable necklace! You're sure to look "off the chain" at holiday soirees and year-round!

Formulated without: parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, sythetic dyes, synthetic fragrance

Limited edition kit includes:
- 32 full size, new and limited-edition eyeshadows (16 shimmering and 16 matte)
- 8 new lipglosses
- full size, mineral powder bronzer in park ave princess
- new soft pink highlighting powder
- 5 new long-wearing eyeliners

skinvigorating ingredients:
- vitamins A & E: natural preservative acts as an anti-inflammatory emollient and fights free radical damage
- vitamin C: antioxidant that fights free radicals and prevents oxidative stress and premature signs of aging, while brightening skin
- grape seed oil: lightweight emollient easily absorbs into skin to deliver a high content of vitamin E and minerals while helping fight free radicals
- mineral pigments: colors derived from natural minerals have been known to soothe and soften the skin
- cocoa seed butter: lightweight moisturizer absorbs easily to replenish and deliver minerals, antioxidants and vitamins

image: press release

NEW Product: Lise Watier Mineral Compact Powder

Brand: Lise Watier
Name: Mineral Compact Powder
Size: 10 g
Price: $35 CAD;

Name: Oil Blotting Papers (Refill Cartridge)
Size: 30 papers
Price: $8 CAD;

Lise Watier has just launched a really unique new product and I can't wait to try it out (watch for a Product Review coming soon on Cinnamon Kitten!).

From the press release: "The Mineral Compact Powder evens out the complexion, corrects imperfections, and gives skin a matte finish that looks smooth and natural. Virtually invisible on application, it boasts a light and silky texture that melts into the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and flaws. The powder can be used to achieve different degrees of coverage, from light to medium; subtle when used lightly for touch-ups, or with more emphasis for an opaque finish. The result is flawless; the complexion looks even and naturally enhanced."

- fragrance free
- talc free
- paraben free

What makes this compact slightly different is that it has an innovative case with a refillable compartment that holds 30 oil-blotting papers. Complete with powder puff and mirror, this take-everywhere compact is practical and ideal for on-the-go touch-ups during the day.

Available in 6 shades:
- Neutre

- Naturel

- Beige Beige

- Beige Pur

- Bronze

- Caramel

image: press release

Gift Idea: Schick Intuition Plus gift packs

Brand: Schick
Name: Intuition Plus gift pack
Price: approx. $15.00 CAD

Schick Intuition Plus gift pack includes:
- an Intuition Plus razor, the first ever 4-blade razor that lathers, shaves and moisturizes in one easy step
- a 3-pack of refills, compatible with any Intuition Plus razor
- a 5-piece spa kit including a massager, exfoliating belt, loofah, hair brush and pumice scrub

There are 2 gift packs available:
- the Advanced Moisture gift pack: for the woman looking to beat those winter dry spells
- the Sensitive gift pack: great for those with skin that needs extra TLC

image: press release

NEW Product Collection: La Senza Nail Polish Collection

Brand: La Senza
Name: Nail Polish Collection
Price: $6.50 or 3 for $15.00 CAD

La Senza has recently launched some new beauty products, and true to the brand, they are fun and flirty, with bright, fuchsia packaging.

La Senza's first-ever collection of nail polish features 15 trendy colours. The polish is long-lasting, chip-resistant, and is DBP, toluene and formaldehyde-free.


Shades available:
- Whistler White: marshmallow white
- Sand Paolo: neutral pale pink
- Turkish rose: baby rose pink
- Parisian Pink: hot pink
- Tango Red: rosy pink
- Hollywood Strip: fuchsia pink
- Santiago Chili: true, deep red
- Very Versailles: medium purple
- Moscow Nights (seasonal): midnight purple
- Marrakesh Me: spicy, deep brownish red
- Big Ben, Baby! (seasonal): medium taupe
- Black Sea Magic: deep, coffee brown
- Fiji Fantasy (seasonal): deep, iridescent cobalt blue
- Make Mine Milan! (seasonal): camouflage green
- Reykjavik Lights: Super Silver - wear alone or as a top coat

Available at select La Senza retailers.

image: press release

Lancome Bonus Time at Sears

Canadians - It's Lancome Bonus Time!

Retailer: Sears

Duration: November 20-26, 2010

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

What You Get:

- a signature bag with matching companion bag

Your choice of one of five customized gift options:

Gift 1 includes:
- High Resolution Refil-3x Triple Action Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF 15, 15 mL
- High Resolution Collaser-5x Intense Collagen Anti-Wrinkle Serum, 15 mL
- Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover, 50 mL
- Nutrix Royal Body Intense Lipid Repair Cream, 60 mL
- Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara
- Colour Design Sensational Effects Lip Colour in Love It

Gift 2 includes:
- Rénergie Anti-Wrinkle and Firming Treatment, 15 mL
- Rénergie Microlift R.A.R.E. Intense Targeted Repositioning Lifter, 15 mL
- Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover, 50 mL
- Nutrix Royal Body Intense Lipid Repair Cream, 60 mL
- Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara
- Colour Design Sensational Effects Lip Colour in Love It

Gift 3 includes:
- High Resolution Refil-3x Triple Action Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF 15, 15 mL
- High Resolution Collaser-5x Intense Collagen Anti-Wrinkle Serum, 15 mL
- Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover, 50 mL
- Cils Booster XL Super-Enhancing Mascara Base, 2 mL
- Colour Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow in Impress, Avant Gold, Gold Riche, and Sparkling Brown
- Colour Design Sensational Effects Lip Colour in Love It

Gift 4 includes:
- Rénergie Anti-Wrinkle and Firming Treatment, 15 mL
- Rénergie Microlift R.A.R.E. Intense Targeted Repositioning Lifter, 15 mL
- Cils Booster XL Super-Enhancing Mascara Base, 2 mL
- Colour Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow in Impress, Avant Gold, Gold Riche, and Sparkling Brown
- Juicy Tubes Lip Gloss in Beach Plum
- Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover, 50 mL

Gift 5 includes:
- Rénergie Anti-Wrinkle and Firming Treatment, 15 mL
- Rénergie Microlift R.A.R.E. Intense Targeted Repositioning Lifter, 15 mL
- Cils Booster XL Super-Enhancing Mascara Base, 2 mL
- Colour Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow in Impress, Avant Gold, Gold Riche, and Sparkling Brown
- Juicy Tubes Lip Gloss in Beach Plum
- Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara

image: e-flyer

Elizabeth Arden Bonus Time at Sears

Canadians - It's Elizabeth Arden Bonus Time!

Retailer: Sears

Duration: November 13-28, 2010

Minimum amount you need to spend: $38 CAD (before taxes)

What You Get:

- a black patent cosmetic bag with ONE of the following two 7-piece gift sets

Gift 1 includes:
- Ceramide Purifying Cream Cleanser, 50 mL

- Prevage Face Advanced Anti-Aging Serum, 5 mL
- Ceramide Plump Perfect Ultra Lift and Firm Moisture Cream SPF 30, 15 mL
- Quad Compact - 4 eyeshadows in Moonbeam, Smoke, Twilight and Sparkle
- Exceptional Lipstick in Starlight
- Red Door Eau de Parfum Anniversary Replica, 5 mL

Gift 2 includes:
- Intervene 3-in-1 Cleanser Exfoliator Primer, 50 mL
- Intervene Radiance Boosting Moisture Cream SPF15, 15 mL
- Prevage Face Advanced Anti-Aging Serum, 5 mL
- Quad Compact - 4 eyeshadows in Moonbeam, Smoke, Twilight and Sparkle
- Exceptional Lipstick in Breathless
- Red Door Eau de Parfum Anniversary Replica, 5 mL

image: e-flyer

NEW Product Line: Whole Truth Solutions Healthy Beauty Bath Bars

Brand: Whole Truth Solutions

Name: Healthy Beauty Bath Bars
Price: approx. $7 USD

Founded by Teresa and Frank Bebla in 2008, Whole Truth Solutions offers all natural bath and body solutions for women, men and children. Their Collection is inspired by their life philosophy which is to only embrace beauty by healthy means.

Every Healthy Beauty Bar is handmade with plant based ingredients, including natural teas with cleansing organic oils, organic butters and healing herbs, and produced using the cold process method. Each bar is cured for at least 4 weeks before being packaged in 100 percent recycled material. No two bars are identical; therefore each provides its own distinctive gift.

Each comes with a unique name, special quote on its packaging and tells its own special tale:

- 4:30: an herbal masterpiece inspired by hemp and its natural sustainability with hints of sea kelp and cedarwood.
- Alice Rose: inspired and named after Whole Truth Solutions’ founder Teresa Bebla’s late mother, Alice Rose. Bask in the scent of lavender mixed with roses.
- Along the Shore: takes you on a long, relaxing beach walk with its aroma of sea salt and kelp.
- Caisse: a tribute to Nurse Rene Caisse for her contribution to the world of Cancer. Features a blend of essaiac tea, basil and eucalyptus for their healing qualities.
- Cigarettes & Coffee: an ode to Otis Redding., this bar smells of coffee, cocoa, almond and ginger.
- Crouching Tiger Hidden Jasmine: Asian-inspired with hints of green tea and jasmine.
- Hello Vera!: nothing can beat the natural healing qualities of aloe vera.
- I Hope: with the aroma of hibiscus, lavender and vanilla in the air, you won’t have to hope to relax after a long day, you just will!
- Lavender Buds: the perfect bed time bath bar, made with lavender and chamomile to soothe skin and relax the soul.
- Lemon Sense: when life hands you lemons...shower with this bar and let the soothing combination of chamomile, oatmeal and lemon peel calm you.
- Nature Boy: inspired and named after a Nat King Cole song. Features plantain, aloe and lime.
- Pumpkins From Poppy Seeds: nourishes and exfoliates skin with pumpkin, poppy, cedarwood and sage.
- Raw Honey & Oats: blended with 2 of nature’s finest ingredients - oats and honey - to create the comforting aroma reminiscent of homemade oatmeal cookies.
- Simplicity: in honor of appreciating the simpler thing in life, this bar has 3 simple flavors - coco, sunflower and myrrh.
- Unhook the Stars: wish upon a star for younger looking skin… or just use this acai berry-filled bar and let it do all the work for you.
- Vanilla Berry Truffle: this exotic bath bar will leave you feeling spoiled! Made with white truffle oil, vanilla beans and ylang ylang.
- Vanilla Sky: represents a blank canvas and a fresh start with a refreshing shower filled with the aroma of vanilla bean, spearmint and white thyme.
- White Tea Jasmine Rose: shares the simple and beautiful aroma created when jasmine and rose are swept up by the same breeze.
- Yellow Brick Road: made with lemongrass, ginger and poppy, oh my!

image: press release

NEW Product: Schick Quattro for Women TrimStyle

Brand: Schick
Name: Quattro for Women TrimStyle
Price: approx. $12.99 CAD

For all those times you wish your razor was just a touch smaller or a little handier, the Schick Quattro for Women TrimStyle combines the high-performance blades of a Quattro for Women razor — which is ideal for long-lasting smoothness on your legs, underarms and bikini line — with a waterproof, battery-powered trimmer, perfect for safely tidying up or styling your bikini area.

With 4 adjustable trimmer lengths, the Quattro for Women TrimStyle allows you to get as neat as you'd like or as bare as you dare.

The easy to use four blade razor and waterproof trimmer is perfect to keep in the shower. It allows women to shave, trim and shape with the flip of the handle.

image: press release

Gift Idea: Olay Gift Pack

Brand: Olay
Name: Gift Pack
Price: approx. $12.99 CAD

For those Olay fans on your list - here's a sweet little gift pack that would make a great stocking stuffer.

Gift Pack includes:
- Olay Foaming Face Wash, 200 ml – deep cleans, thoroughly removing dirt, oil and make-up without over-drying skin. This daily cleanser is 100% soap and oil free.
- Olay Refreshing Toner, 212 ml – a low-alcohol, dermatologist-tested formula containing aloe and witch hazel to cleanse and refresh skin without over-drying. Suitable for all skin types.
- face cloth

The Olay gift set will be available for a limited time at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores.

image: press release

Gift Idea and NEW Product: Lip Elixirs

Brand: Lip Elixirs
Price: $6.50 USD


A perfect little stocking stuffer for everyone on your list, Lip Elixirs is an all-natural line of lip balms in a variety of mouthwatering cocktail flavors.

Kukui nut oil, aloe and cocoa butters blended with all-natural essential oils create this line of a non-greasy and light lip balms that glide on smooth and leave your lips nourished and protected from the elements. Packaged in a stylish and understated retro tin, Lip Elixirs are perfect for popping in a pocket or purse so your lips never have to be left to dry out.

Available in:
- Mimosa: a light, refreshing citrus blend
- Mojito: the cool crisp tingle of spearmint
- Vanilla Bourbon: all natural vanilla
- Sassafras: the unique scent and taste of good old-fashioned root beer
- Chocolate Martini: a blend of tempting chocolate with a unique twist of lavender

image: press release