Product Review: Ms. Manicure Handy Dandy Mani

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Ms. Manicure
Name: : Handy Dandy Mani
Size: n/a
Price: $10 USD

From their website: "Handy Dandy Mani set is a tidy carry-all that has every tool you could require to manicure yourself solo. If you like to have your own personal tools when you go to the salon, just take this set with you! This all-in-one tool kit includes a Cuticle Nipper, Nail Clipper, Nail Scissors, Wood Cuticle Sticks, Nail Brush, Washable Salon Board, 4-way Nail Buffer, and Slant Tip Tweezers. And, they are all housed in a cute double-zippered pocked bag, one side to stash the tools and the other to hold your polish."

To Purr About:
- comes with all the great tools needed to prep your nails in 1 handy dandy kit
- 4-way nail buffer is so useful & compact that it`s great for using at home or
when travelling
- metal tools were good quality
- double-zippered pocket bag is versatile and great for travelling
- affordable price (much cheaper than buying all the items separately)

Claws Out:
- nail scissors do not come with a protective cover
- although the nail brush is useful & practical it is a but cheap looking/feeling
- I wish the cuticle sticks had rubbers tips to make them a bit ‘softer’

Final Comments:
To be honest – I don’t take very good care of my nails, but when I see girls with their beautifully manicured nails I am envious. I figured the best way to get started was to try out this great little manicure kit.

I am a big fan of Ms. Manicure products, having tried their 6-surfaced 'Call Your Bluff' filing stick, so I was excited to see they have little kits available.

When I first got my hands on this set I was a bit disappointed that it didn't come with any creams, polishes, etc. but in hindsight that’s probably better as it let's you save on the cost and put your money into the products you want.

There are definitely some great tools included in this set (like the 4-way nail buffer, washable salon board, nail scissors, nail clippers, etc. and it is a great set to get if you are needing to grab some great essentials to start you off, but I found some of the tools (cuticle sticks, nail brush) a bit flimsy. In the end, it’s still a great starter kit, which for a great price gets you all the tools you need to get you started.

Now if I could only figure out how to handle this cuticle nipper with my left hand.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: parispresents.com

Product Review: ToGoSpa Eyedews Under Eye Treatment

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: ToGoSpa Eyedews
Name: : Under Eye Treatment
Size: n/a
Price: 6-pack for $30 USD

From their website: "If you have circles, bags, puffiness, fine lines, stress, fatigue, hangover, or a Hot Date, Eyedews may be for you. A refreshing, single use, under-eye rejuvenation treatment, Eyedews are specifically formulated to help you look & feel great!"

To Purr About:
- convenient packaging that's great if travelling or on-the-go
- easy to use
- felt so amazing - refreshing for my tired eyes
- improved the look of the area under my eyes – reduced darkness and bags
- since they decently adhered to my face, I was able to keep moving around

Claws Out:
- will slowly slide down your face if you’re moving around (not lying down)

Final Comments:
As most people on the go can probably relate, my eyes are super tired by the end of the day, so these types of products aimed at soothing tired eyes and reducing the appearance of dark circles really appeal to me.

Eyedews are super easy to use, just open the package and put them on your face – and they feel great! Since I am always running around the house, I found them sliding around my face a bit, so I had to constantly re-adjust them, but obviously if I was lying down as suggested I wouldn’t have that problem. Not only did I feel super pampered and serene having them cooling and soothing my face, but the area under my eyes did seem to look improved when I took them off.

At approximately $5 a pop, I thought they were a bit pricey at first, but after using them and reconsidering the price compared to spa visits, other similar products, etc. or other things I indulge in to pamper myself over the course of the week, I think it’s quite reasonable for something that I would probably do maybe once a week to relax and wind-down.

Lastly, I absolutely love the idea of taking these on a plane as a pick me up right before landing, although I think I might get a few stares from fellow passengers if I put these on.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: eyedews.com

Estee Lauder Bonus Time at The Bay

Canadians - It's Estee Lauder Bonus Time!

Retailer: The Bay

Duration: until September 6, 2010

There are two bonus offers from Estee Lauder, depending on the amount you spend.

Minimum amount you need to spend: $32.00 CAD (before taxes)

What You Get:
- Your choice of Lipstick, High Gloss and Eyeshadow Quad in WARM or COOL

- Your choice of Moisturizer: Resilience Lift Extreme OR Time Zone Creme, deluxe gift size

- Soft Clean Tender Creme Cleanser

- cosmetic bag

- foldover mirror

Minimum amount you need to spend: $75.00 CAD (before taxes)

What You Get:

- Your choice of Lipstick, High Gloss and Eyeshadow Quad in WARM or COOL

- Your choice of Moisturizer: Resilience Lift Extreme OR Time Zone Creme, deluxe gift size

- Soft Clean Tender Creme Cleanser

- Artist Eye Pencil
- Double-Ended Mascara & Lash Primer
- Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

- 2 matching cosmetic bags

- foldover mirror

image: website

Lancome Bonus Time at Sears

Canadians - It's Lancome Bonus Time!

Retailer: Sears and Sears.ca
Minimum amount you need to spend: $34.00 CAD (before taxes)
Duration: August 26 - September 17, 2010


What You Get:
- signature bag & matching companion

Your choice of 6 items from the best selection of Lancome products:

- High Resolution Refill-3x Triple Action Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF 15

- High Resolution Collaser-5x Intense Collagen Anti-Wrinkle Serum

- Renergie Anti-Wrinkle and Firming Treatment

- Renergie Microlift R.A.R.E. Intense Targeted Repositioning Lifter

- Nutrix Royal Body Intense Lipid Repair Cream

- Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

- CILS Booster XL Super-Enhancing Mascara Base

- Colour Design Sensational Effects Lip Colour

- Colour Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow

- Juicy Tube Lip Gloss

- Hypnose Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara

image: e-flyer

Product Review: Rimmel Fix and Perfect Foundation Primer

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Rimmel
Name: : Fix & Perfect Foundation Primer
Size: 1 fl oz / 30 ml
Price: approx. $8 CAD

From the press release: "an under-makeup base that enhances your complexion minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines, leaving skin looking smooth. The delicate peach tone helps reduce redness, resulting in longer radiant foundation wear."

To Purr About:
- extremely light
- blends into skin quickly and easily
- primer absorbs into skin and dries pretty quickly
- foundation lasted longer than without the primer
- helped keep my skin matte

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
Another great Rimmel product. I was surprised at the colour when I first opened the tube. It's a light peach colour, but that doesn't transfer onto the skin. It's a light, non-greasy formula that absorbs almost instantly into the skin without a trace.

It dries quickly and doesn't leave skin "rubbery" like some other primers. I did find my foundation lasted much longer throughout the day in comparison to no-primer (or even in comparison to some other primers) and I didn't find my face was as shiny as usual, so I think the primer helped to keep my face matte as well.

Because it was so light, a little bit goes a long way. Compared to some of my other favourite primers, the price point makes this a really great deal.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: press kit

pretty, pretty words

I'm addicted to Wordles. I love words, so it's probably no surprise that "word as art" intrigues me.

Check out the Wordle I created by plugging in this blog's URL - it's fun to see what words I've been using most recently in writing this blog...(click on the image to see the full size so you can actually read the words)

Product Review: Sensodyne iso-active Multi Action Foaming Gel Toothpaste

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Sensodyne
Name: : iso-active Multi Action Foaming Gel Toothpaste
Size: 100 ml
Price: approx. $10 CAD

I've never really had sensitive teeth, although this past summer I have noticed that sometimes my teeth are slightly sensitive whenever I eat or drink extremely cold foods or drinks. So when I received a sample of Sensodyne iso-active, I didn't hesitate to give it a try.

My husband (who reviews on this blog as GuineaHubby) uses Sensodyne regularly, but this was my first time trying out a Sensodyne product. Ii was extra curious because this one claims to be "unlike any other toothpaste you’ve ever tried before. It starts off as a gel on your toothbrush, then transforms into micro-fine foam as you brush your teeth. The foam penetrates hard-to-reach places to thoroughly clean your whole mouth and provide protection from sensitivity."

This is also available in a whitening formula.

To Purr About:
- light mint taste that isn't too strong or overpowering
- the gel changes to foam fairly quickly
- the gel expands quite a lot, so a little goes a long way
- mouth feels really clean after use
- less messy than tube toothpaste

Claws Out:
- the mint flavour is fairly light so I don't get that really minty fresh mouth feel after brushing
- a lot more packaging than regular toothpaste

Final Comments:
Wow. I was not expecting so much FOAM. The gel transforms quickly into a thick foam that really coats your whole mouth. So a little gel is all you need to get a really good cleaning. I did find that after a couple of weeks use, my teeth weren't as sensitive to cold drinks, so it definitely does protect teeth.

I love the dispense - it stands up on its own on my bathroom counter and is much less messy than regular tube toothpaste. However, it does mean a lot more packaging than tubes for those that are environmentally conscious.

It is very different than any other toothpaste I've tried and I love the foaminess of the toothpaste. If you have sensitive teeth, then I definitely recommend giving this a try.

Rating (out of 5):

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

image: well.ca

Product Review: Tree Hut Shea Body Lotion

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Tree Hut
Name: : Shea Body Lotion
Size: 11.75 oz / 347 ml
Price: $6.99 USD

From the press release: "A rich, non-greasy formulation infused with shea nut oil to hydrate skin, leaving it smooth and supple with a sweet scent of almond and honey. The addition of Vitamin E and Aloe Vera help soothe and condition itchy, sunburned skin."

Key ingredients: sweet almond oil, honey, aloe and safflower seed oil

To Purr About:
- convenient pump bottle
- very light lotion
- sweet almond scent
- non-greasy

Claws Out:
- absorbs quickly
- leaves skin feeling soft

Final Comments:
- This lotion is extremely light and absorbs pretty quickly, leaving my skin soft. It's not greasy at all, which is nice in a lotion.

The only thing I would prefer is a lighter scent. The sweet almond scent is nice, but when you use this lotion on your whole body, it can be a little overpowering. I've been using the lotion sparingly, and it leaves a nice fragrance, but you definitely can't wear any other scent to compete with it.

As a lotion though, it's really great - light, non-greasy, quickly absorbed and leaves skin very soft.

Rating (out of 5):





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

image: treehutshea.com

Product Review: Lise Watier Bleu Bold Smokey Kohl Liner

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Lise Watier
Name: : Bleu Bold Smokey Kohl Liner
Size: 3 g / 0.11 oz
Price: $18 CAD

Shade Tried: Blue

From the press kit: "With its practical pencil format and creamy texture (easy to blend with a fingertip!), even inexperienced users will be able to achieve the perfect smoky eye. Formulated with a specialty wax (which procures a rich, opaque finish with the very first application), light oils and vivid pigments, the Smokey Kohl Liner glides on softly for a full, deep line. Long lasting and comfortable, it offers an intense matte finish, without smudging or dripping."

I'm a huge fan of Lise Watier products and have rarely used any of their products that I haven't been at least a little impressed with. When I first opened this liner, I was very surprised by the shape and size...and right away I knew that this would be a disappointing product. Can you guess why?

To Purr About:
- intense colour that's very intense and rich
- smooth, creamy liner glides on easily and doesn't tug eyelid at all
- a very light application leaves a deep, intense colour

Claws Out:
- the shape of this liner is difficult to keep sharp

Final Comments:
The formula of the liner is like many other Lise Watier eyeliners - rich, creamy and intense. As with their other liners, it glides on smoothly and easily and doesn't pull the eyelid at all.

But my biggest complaint about this product is the shape. Because it's quite thick at the bottom - (think the base of a lipstick) that after a few uses, the tip gets quite dull and after awhile, it's difficult to keep sharp. As you can see, once you get past a certain point, it will be impossible to sharpen and is basically a waste of product. Not the best design as most of the product will have to be tossed.

Considering this product costs $18 CAD, it's seems a lot of money for a product you can only use part of.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: press kit

NEW Product Collection: MAC Digi-Dazzle

Lipstick, 3 g / 0.1 US oz, $17.50 CAD
High-shine lip colour meets triple-drama sparkle and shine when multi-sizes of pearl pigments team up with rich creamy colour to create a superbly glam-rock effect for the lips. Long-wearing and hydrating for smooth application.

Available in 13 shades:
- Smash Hit (dazzle): white beige

- Hit (dazzle): white beige

- Liquid Lurez (dazzle): tarnished golden

- Sweet Bits (dazzle): light lavender pink

- Win-Win (dazzle): light pink

- Glaringly Hip (dazzle): light peach

- Hot Sass (dazzle): bright orange

- Naughty You (dazzle): neon pink

- Troublemaker (dazzle): magenta

- Infused with Glam (dazzle): copper brown

- Hellraiser (dazzle): light lavender

- Baby's On Fire (dazzle): deep red

- Snazzy (dazzle): deep plum

- Wham (dazzle): plum brown

image: maccosmetics.com

NEW Product: NARS Beautiful Life & Only You Palettes

Brand: NARS
Name: Beautiful Life & Only You Palettes

This fall, NARS is introducing 2 new palettes packaged in a compact in a NARS-logo zippered case.

Both palettes include 2signature NARS cheek products chosen to complement the lips or eyes - whether deep and sultry, or light and fresh. Complete with a range of shades to be worn together or alone, the glamorous combinations are limitless.


Beautiful Life Lip and Cheek Palette, $55 USD
Row of 4 lip colours:
- Sexual Healing: sheer, shimmering pink blossom
- Honolulu Honey: satin, flesh-toned beige
- Roman Holiday: sheer, delicate pastel pink
- Funny Face: semi-matte fuchsia
Row of 2 Multiples:
- Copacabana: glistening pearl
- Orgasm: peachy pink with shimmer

Only You Eye and Cheek Palette, $65 USD
Row of 4 eyeshadows:
- Alhambra Duo: left side: metallic rose mist
- Mekong Single: espresso fused with gold
- Eurydice Duo: left side: electric aubergine
- Pandora Duo: right side: matte black
Row of 2 Blushes:
- Hungry Heart Duo: iridescent gold ivory
- Orgasm: peachy pink with shimmer

image: press release

Product Review: Dr. Scholl’s Foot Deodorant Spray

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Dr. Scholl's
Name: : Foot Deodorant Spray
Size: 120 ml
Price: $8.99 CAD

With the summer season upon us I’ve been finding myself wearing socks less and less.
Once thing that always bothers me about sandels and ballet shoes is that with no socks acting as bacteria barriers and sweat absorbers my feet can become a bit smelly.

I picked up this Dr. Scholl’s product that boasted that it was "An effective spray for all day protection against foot odors."

To Purr About:
- effectively protected against majorly unpleasant foot odors
- wasn't super strong scented (as the aerosol version is)
- went on clear and didn't leave any residue on my shoes
- allows for discreet application since it isn’t aerosol and doesn’t have that loud
aerosol sound when sprayed

Claws Out:
- doesn’t stop feet from sweating
- isn’t as effective / strong as the aerosol version

Final Comments:
This is the first time I’ve ever tried a product like this, so I wasn’t really sure what to expect.

I initially tried the aerosol version, and although it seemed super effective it was too strong smelling for me. It also turned my feet pasty white and I was a bit afraid how that the pasty white film would get on my black shoes or would look weird when I wore sandals. Although the pasty white on my feet did seem to disappear and didn’t leave any marks on my shoes, I decided to try the less obtrusive non-aerosol version.

After using the non-aerosol product during the warm days I have to say I am quite impressed. There is a definite reduction in the smell and although in extreme heat there is still a bit of a smell it is so much better than before.

Unlike the aerosol version, this one didn’t stop my feet from sweating as much. If you suffer from stronger smelling feet the aerosol version is probably more suited to your needs.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: This product was purchased by Suziesaurus

Product Review: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nailpolish

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Sally Hansen
Name: : Insta-Dri Nailpolish
Size: 9.17 mL / 0.31 fl. oz.
Price: $6.99 CAD

Shade Tried: Snappy Sorbet Creme (30)

From their website: "One Stroke! One Coat! Done!"

Advertised qualities:
- One-stroke application
- One-coat coverage
- Dries in 60 seconds!
- Perfectionist Brush delivers a fast, flawless application that dries to a shiny finish in 60 seconds
- Available in 32 irresistible shades!
- Toluene, DBP, and Formaldehyde free

To Purr About:
- very thick – only one coat was necessary
- available in lots of fun shades
- Perfectionist Brush delivers an easy and fast application
- didn’t chip easily
- lasted a decent amount of time

Claws Out:
- could have lasted a bit longer

Final Comments:
I’ve been on the lookout for a fun summer shade that is a bit edgy and sticking with my recent obsession with coral colours I decided to pick Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri nailpolish in Snappy Sorbet Creme.

I was a bit skeptical about how much I would enjoy this product when I saw the applicator brush, but was pleasantly proven wrong once I tried it. The brush made application super fast, easy and consistent (less streaks).

The colour is so vibrant and true to the colour in the bottle. And the best part was I only required one coat and that coat did dry quite fast! Although the nail colour did chip after a couple of days it wasn’t bad considering the wear and tear I put them through, so I’m pretty happy with it.

I am really impressed with this product and am thinking of picking up more colours now.

Rating (out of 5):

Disclosure: This product was purchased by Suziesaurus.

image: sallyhansen.com

Comment moderation - now ON

Hey readers,

I love hearing from my readers and I love it when you leave comments about products you've tried and give me your take on them as well.

But, unfortunately, lately, I've been getting a lot of spammy-type comments, so I'm going to have to turn on comment modersation for awhile. I don't mind when people leave links to their blogs or other beauty-related links, but it's kind of annoying when there are links to weird sites and other ad-links on the comments.

So, for the next bit, until the spam dies down, comment moderation will stay on.

Thanks for your understanding!
Cinnamon Kitten

Product Review: Hard Candy Plexi Gloss

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Hard Candy
Name: : Plexi Gloss
Size: 7.7g / .27 oz.
Price: approx. $5 USD

From the website: "Coat lips with a shot of glistening, glassy color from these innovative tube glosses. Just a gentle squeeze of the tube sends a wash of sexy shine over lips. The convenient applicator tip makes perfecting your pout goof-proof! Available in cream and shimmer shades."

To Purr About:
- convenient applicator tip allows for easy application
- affordable price point
- available in 12 great shades

Claws Out:
- feels really sticky / heavy
- doesn’t last very long
- colour is a bit more subtle than I had hoped for
- tube container is hard, so it’s hard to use up all of the product
- hard to remove last remaining product off lips

Final Comments:
I’ve always envied when I see photos of girls and their lips are glossy and perfect, so on the continued saga to find the perfect lip product to get me those coveted lips I’ve decided to try a few new glosses – one being Hard Candy’s Plexi Gloss.

After trying it out I can’t say that I’m a huge fan. Although it did give me a glossy
look and was super easy to apply neatly, I really disliked the really heavy sticky feeling. It made my lips feel like they were going to dry out very quickly. I know lots of glosses have this consistency, but I am looking for something a bit lighter and more moisturizing.

Rating (out of 5):

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

image: hardcandy.com

Look Gorgeous, Love Green

I love it when a beauty company makes a conscious effort to help the environment, and I know many Cinnamon Kitten readers feel the same way.

One of my favourite brands, ecoTOOLS, not only makes awesome environmentally-friendly beauty tools, but now this past May they launched a really cool program as well - the Look Gorgeous, Love Green campaign.

The campaign encourages women to swap their current cosmetic brushes and bath + body care products for an ecoTOOLS alternative. Due to overwhelming success, the Look Gorgeous, Love Green Campaign has been extended through the end of summer! UPDATE: This offer is only available to US residents.

Examples of items to swap include:
- Cosmetic brushes
- Body wash and scrub
- Body lotion/butter
- Hand cream
- Body mist
- Bath sponges

For each item that participants trade in, they'll receive a coupon for a free ecoTOOLS alternative (up to $7.99 value, limit 2 coupons per person). Items collected will be recycled. For more information on how to swap cosmetic brushes and bath + body care products for an ecoTOOLS alternative, visit www.lookgorgeouslovegreen.com.

Product Review: ko denmark Organic Jasmine & Neroli Body Lotion

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: ko denmark
Name: : Organic Jasmine & Neroli Body Lotion
Size: 150 ml / 5 fl oz
Price: $36 USD

Meaning "the little one", ko denmark relies of fresh, pure and natural products.

Benefits of the ko denmark Organic Jasmine & Neroli Body Lotion:
- aroma provides a soothing effect
- ultra moisturizing
- smooths skin surface and prevents cracking

To Purr About:
- has a floral scent that's pretty realistic
- lotion absorbs really quickly
- skin feels nicely moisturized

Claws Out:
- floral scent is a little overpowering

Final Comments:
This moisturizing lotion does a lot of what you want in a good lotion - it absorbs quickly and makes skin nice, smooth and soft.

There's a strong floral scent that's so realistic that about 5 minutes after I applied the lotion, but husband (who was sitting on the other side of the room) asked me why it smelled like flowers in the room - he thought there were fresh flowers somewhere. Yes - the floral scent is realistic (their ingredients must be incredibly fresh!) The problem is that it's pretty strong, so I wouldn't recommend using too much of this lotion at the same time.

Rating (out of 5):




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

image: press release

NEW Product Collection: NARS Fall 2010 Collection

Launched on July 15 (seems a little early for a Fall Collection, but oh well!) the NARS Fall 2010 Collection is an assortment of bright, matte colors and cool shimmering shades.


Blush, $26.00 USD
Made with transparent pigments to avoid heaviness. Provides a sheer, natural hint of colour.
- Douceur: a soft pink-brown hue imparts a honeyed brown kiss of innocence on cheeks.

Single Eyeshadow, $23.00 USD
Longwearing, crease resistant colour in sheer wearable formulas. These richly pigmented powders blend effortlessly and can also be used wet for precisely lining the eyes.Richly pigmented, micronized powder formula provides improved wear and feel
Effortless blending.
- Daphne: named after Daphne Guinness, this is a deep-violet eyeshadow
- Mangrove: a soft yellow laced with lime
- Coconut Grove: a dark chocolate-cum-taupe named for Miami’s magical neighborhood on Biscayne Bay

Lipstick, $24.00 USD
Exceedingly longwearing, nourishing and non-drying, with Vitamin E.
- Rouge Basque: inspired by the inside cover of a book from the famed French countryside, François Nars envisioned the quintessential red from the Basque region

Lip Gloss, $24.00 USD
Serious shine and sexy colour. Extremely wearable and versatile shade, lip gloss may be worn alone or over other lip products for heightened drama. Ultra-shiny and highly pigmented. Convenient wand application.
- Strawberry Fields: serious, yet sexy shine in a bright pink

Soft Touch Shadow Pencil, $24.00 USD
Easy, portable, long-wearing application. These jumbo sized pencils have versatile functionality to shade the lid, line, or highlight the eye. Smooth, creamy texture delivers a smooth, velvety feel to the eye and make for easy blending and an ideal base for layering with a powder shadow for increased color intensity. Easy and seamless blending
- Palladium: a sparkling turquoise that rocks with all the vibrancy and sex appeal of its namesake NYC hotspot

Duo Eyeshadow, $32.00 USD
The same longwearing crease resistant formula as NARS single eyeshadow, in uniquely paired color combinations. Worn together or alone, all duo eyeshadows can be applied sheer or built up for a more dramatic effect. All powder eyeshadows can be used wet or dry. Richly pigmented, micronized powder formula provides improved wear and feel. - Tzarine: platinum gold infused with silver is paired with a bold, steel grey
- Rajasthan: an exotic pair of shadows playing glazed almond against cool charcoal


image: press release

Product Review: The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Blemish Fade Night Lotion

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: The Body Shop
Name: Tea Tree Oil Blemish Fade Night Lotion
Size: 30 mL
Price: $18 CAD

From their website: "Best if you want to: Improve the appearance of blemish-damaged skin, control oiliness and moisturize while you sleep with a light, moisturizing, non-oily lotion that sinks into the skin."

How it works:
- Lemon tea tree and Community Trade tea tree oil from Kenya contain anti-bacterial properties that help fight blemishes and prevent new ones from forming.
- Tamanu oil from Madagascar has a soothing effect and helps to calm irritation and redness.

To Purr About:
- did seem to slightly improve / lighten the appearance of some of my scars
caused by skin blemishes

Claws Out:
- I’m not too fond of the scent
- not very moisturizing
- seemed to slightly irritate some of my acne-troubled spots
- scares still remained

Final Comments:
I picked this product up while The Body Shop was having their latest sale – I love their sales as it gives me an opportunity to try products that I might not have normally bought. I’ve actually fell in love with lots of The Body Shop’s products lately this way.

I have two skin problems I was hoping this product would help – acne prone skin and scares left from my teenage years of bad acne ridden skin. After using the whole bottle religiously every day I was impressed that this product did seem to lighten the appearance of some of the scars on my skin. The only downside is that at the end of the bottle the scars still remained and were visible.

Another con to this product is that it seemed to irritate my skin a bit and cause my acne to flare up. Perhaps I am just allergic to tea tree. All in all I rate this product as okay for the price, but wouldn’t mind paying more for something was a bit more effective.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: This product was purchased by Suziesaurus.

image: bodyshop.ca

Product Review: GOSH Velvet Touch Line Perfecter

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: GOSH
Name: : Velvet Touch Line Perfecter
Size: 20 ml / 0.7 fl oz US
Price: approx. $17 CAD

I've tried several different primers (Quo, Smashbox, NARS, etc) and I've noticed that some are much better than others. So I'm always pretty excited to try a new one and see if it stacks up.

When I picked up this product, I thought it was like the other primers I've been using (basically, a base that helps makeup stay on for the day), but it's more of a skin "smoother" than a "primer", although it does that as well. But since Gosh has also come out with a Foundation Primer, I'm assuming this product is now focused on smoothing your skin, as opposed to setting makeup.

From their website: "especially designed to fill in deeper wrinkles and create a beautiful flawless finish to the skin. It's perfect for making your skin more uniform, helping to decrease the appearance of wrinkles and facial imperfections. It's a silky smooth formula that can be used alone or under foundation."

To Purr About:
- perfume free
- only need a tiny bit to cover entire face
- very light, spreads easily
- absorbs quickly
- makes skin nice and smooth
- jar is easy to get all the product out

Claws Out:
- doesn't help makeup stay on as long as regular primers

Final Comments:
A great product to smooth out skin, this Line Perfector definitely made my skin "silky smooth", which helps makeup glide on. However, it wasn't a great "primer", which meant makeup didn't have the staying power it usually does with my other primers.

I love the jar design because it means you can get to every little bit of product, which means you get a really good value for your money. Also, it's fragrance free and goes on clear, so it's suitable for everyone.

It does make my skin smooth and helps to reduce shine, but I found I was also using moisturizer and primer with it, which means it was just adding an extra step into my morning routine, which I really didn't want to do.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: This product was purchased by Cinnamon Kitten

image: gosh.dk