Conair True Glow Glam Vibrating Makeup Brush Set and Blender

Have you ever been too tired to do your makeup in the morning? On average it takes me an hour to get ready (If I know what look I’m going for and have my clothes picked out) plus an extra 20-30 minutes if my hair is curly. I love testing new products and experimenting with color but sometimes I wish I could snap my fingers and look runway ready without all the effort.

I am always on the lookout for beauty tools to improve application and save time, so when I heard about Conair’s True Glam Glow Collection I just had to test it.

The Vibrating Makeup Brush Set ($18.99) comes with two interchangeable makeup applicators designed to give you a flawless finish. It runs on one AA battery (not included) and has one speed setting for liquids, creams and powders.

To use: Dampen the sponge, apply your foundation, press the power button and blend. The vibrations are supposed to smooth and perfect for a 3D airbrush finish with seamless layers.

Most of the pulsations are generated in the handle rather than sponge itself so all I really felt was light buzzing that did not seem to improve or affect application. Despite this, my foundation still looked pretty awesome and the oval shape is useful for manoeuvring around the nose, jaw line and under eye area. The sponge delivers a sheer finish so I prefer to use it for tinted moisturizer, primer or CC creams that can be layered thinly. It is also useful for buffing out harsh contour lines.

The texture reminds me of those old-school wedged sponges from the drugstore. It isn’t particularly plush or porous but it gets the job done relatively well if you are patient.

The blush brush is great for sweeping on powdery pigment because the synthetic fibers are soft and flexible. The vibrations don’t quite make it to the end of the bristles but I love the natural finish it provides.

Most days I use the original Beauty Blender to apply foundation so I was more comfortable with Conair’s egg shaped Makeup Blender ($14.99). This sponge takes 1 AAA battery (not included) and has its own stand for storage and drying.

For best results, dampen the sponge and pat your foundation on in stippling motions. The material is a bit dense but the coverage is smooth and even.

Application took a bit longer because the sponge is bulky and expands even more when wet but I do like the vibrations that resonate from the blender’s core. It doesn’t seem to have a dramatic effect on the end result but after a couple layers of foundation (a bit more than I normally use) I was able to achieve a beautiful finish that was almost flawless. If you have fine lines, wrinkles or uneven skin texture, the gentle vibration might help fill in gaps and spaces to blur imperfections. Overall I think this is an innovative concept that will inspire the next generation of makeup applicators.

Conair is available at Walmart, amazon.ca, Shoppers Drug Mart, Canadian Tire and conair.ca

Conair Bun-2-Done Hair Styling Bun Maker and Infinity Pro 3Q Blow Dryer Review

On busy mornings I don't have time for intricate hairstyles but a high bun looks professional, sleek and sophisticated – like I'm ready to put on a power suit and take on the world. Over the years many brands have made products to create trendy updos but Conair has taken it a step further.

Bun-2-Done ($69.99) is not your average styling tool. This multi-purpose device comes with 6 flexible rods (2 medium and 4 long) that sit inside a purple base and heat up quickly. While your hair is piled atop your head in the perfect donut shaped bun, the warm rod adds texture, body and bounce - gradually styling as you tackle your workday. In the evening, simply unravel the bun to reveal soft flowing waves that are perfect for a night out.

Bun-2-Done takes up minimal counter space and since the wands are not scorching hot they don't cause heat damage. I have no problem handling them right out of the machine but you can use heat resistant gloves just in case.

Put your hair in a ponytail, place the rod at the ends and roll up or down (like the diagram below). Once you reach the top, snap the rod ends together to form a perfect O and pull your hair around it. Each wand is lined with rubber gripping dots to ensure that most strands wrap neatly but it takes practice to perfect, especially if you have layers.

For long thick hair snap 2 rods together to make an extra long roller (no clips or pins required). Create multiple buns or cute half-up half-down looks for all occasions.

For immediate waves (when I don’t want to wear a bun), I usually leave the rods in the base for a bit longer to ensure they are hot enough to create well formed curls. With no digital readout and only one switch, there is no way to adjust the heat or know the exact temperature. The orange light indicates power but does not change color when the wands are ready to be used.

Start by sectioning your hair into 6 segments (1 per rod) and roll each section into a mini bun. If they loosen, hang down or get in your way, secure with claw clips.

I usually leave the buns in while getting ready and eating breakfast. The longer they set, the tighter your curls will be. If you want even more definition, apply a bit of heat using the Conair Infinity Pro 3Q Blow Dryer. Simply pass the warm air over each twist for a couple minutes to speed up the process. I usually unroll them just before leaving home and apply some serum to make the tendrils extra shiny (no hairspray required).

During the day my curls loosen into cascading messy waves which I tousle to maintain body and volume. My roots and lengths appear full and lifted.

Another styling tool I love is the Conair Infinity Pro 3Q Blow Dryer ($89.97). I used to think all hairdryers were created equal but thermal technology has advanced to improve styling results.

This lightweight pink dryer features heat protect brushless technology engineered to dry hair faster with up to 70% more air pressure. There are two buttons – one with 3 heat settings and another with 2 speeds to control force. For thick hair this feature is amazing! The air blasts out in a steady, powerful stream that makes styling much easier. You can also use the cool setting to reduce heat exposure.

The dryer also has a built to last AC motor, ionic ceramic technology with infrared heat and frizz defense conditioning ions to enhance shine and create a smooth, silky finish. The cold shock button helps lock your style in place and there are 2 diffuser attachments to create volume and bounce.

Conair is available at Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, amazon.ca, Shoppers Drug Mart, Canadian Tire and conaircanada.ca.

Conair Infiniti Pro 3Q Flat Iron Review

Heat, humidity and perspiration makes it nearly impossible for me to keep my hair straight, neat and frizz-free, so during the summer I let my curls flow wild and free. For 5 to 6 months I take a break from heat styling, cut back on sulfates and nourish my ends with oils, conditioner and leave-ins so weakened strands recuperate and grow.

Now that the weather has cooled down, I’m changing my look and updating my styling tools to minimize heat damage. When it comes to healthy hair, quality appliances are essential and the 3Q straightener ($120.00) has cutting-edge safety features to help protect your mane.

Designed with intelligent sensor technology, the temperature automatically adjusts to the characteristics of your hair to limit excessive heat exposure. I have no idea how it monitors hair type or texture but there are 12 digital heat settings up to 235˚C / 455˚F for customized results. I recommend starting at a low level and increasing gradually if necessary. To prevent burns never exceed 450˚. The plates take just 30 seconds to reach optimal temperature and the swivel cord allows you to manoeuvre the device around your head with ease.

It is always best to start with clean fresh hair so I cleanse with the Kerastase Bain De Force Vita-Ciment Topseal Shampoo ($45.00). This fortifying formula reinforces and resurfaces the outer fiber making each strand more resistant to breakage and split-ends. It also removes oil, scalp build-up and impurities without stripping.

Gently detangle, rinse and apply a treatment mask for softness and hydration. Cristalliste ($65.00) primes, nourishes and reinforces against external aggressors with a mix of active ingredients.

1. Brush the deep conditioner through thoroughly focusing on the ends.

2. Pin your hair up, cover with a plastic shower cap and wrap with a microfiber towel to trap in heat and enhance absorption.

3. Leave on for 1-2 hours (unless you have thin hair prone to limpness).

4. Rinse and air dry or use the cool setting on your blow dryer to save time.

Before styling I use a combination of serums and heat protectants. The Kerastase Oleo-Relax ($48.00) smooths dry rebellious hair into submission by eliminating frizz and boosting shine. Apply before or after straightening as a finishing product. 

Kerastase is available at salons nationwide. To find a location near you visit to kerastase.ca.

To make flat ironing easier, part your hair into manageable sections. The 3Q has ionic conditioning technology and luxurious titanium plates for effortless glide and smoothing. It also helps eliminate static, frizz and flyaways with every pass for a lightweight silky finish. 

You will notice a faint humming or whirling noise when using the flat iron which is normal for this model. There may also be some steam as water or products evaporate.

Conair has definitely upgraded their styling tools to a professional level and I am very pleased with my results. The Infinity Pro is available at conair.ca.

Father’s Day Gift Guide 2018

This year Father’s Day seemed to creep up out of nowhere and take most of us by surprise. Didn’t Mother’s Day just pass? It certainly feels that way, but ready-or-not it’s time to hit the mall once again or at the very least, browse a few online stores. Dads are a little harder to shop for. They don’t ask for much and most of them don't really need another necktie. Instead of the same boring gifts why not pamper the men in your life with something a little different...and I don’t mean a homemade ashtray or printed socks.

Keep dad looking sharp with The Barber Shop Pro Series Shavers by Conair – ideal for trimming, wide coverage and precision detailing. The 6 Piece Trimmer and Grooming Kit ($59.97) includes a stainless steel T-Blade for unparalleled performance, Blade Guard, 2 Guide Combs, Cleaning Brush and Lubricating Oil. The powerful DC Motor and lightweight design is ideal for refining the neckline, sideburns and beard.

For travel, the 6 Piece Battery Operated Trimmer ($24.97) is hands-free, lightweight and conveniently slips in his luggage or weekend bag. The sharp blade and ergonomic design manoeuvres around the facial contours with ease for ultimate control and neatness.

In Thailand my husband’s shaver blew out so now he uses the Conair Motor Clipper ($69.97) to achieve the latest looks. This heavy-duty set comes with everything he needs for professional haircuts including: 8 Guide Combs, Scissors, Barber Comb, Cape, Cleaning Kit and a hard storage case that can take a beating. The durable, high quality shears cut through coarse and tense facial hair plus they come in handy for touch-ups and intricate styles. This is a gift he is sure to love!
(Available at conaircanada.com)

Biotherm has been hitting it out of the park with their algae-infused skincare and although my husband is currently digging deep into my bottle of Aquasource, there is a collection formulated specifically for men. The Aquapower line has everything your guy needs to look his best and create a simple yet effective skincare routine.

The Thermal Fresh Gel ($32.00) contains potent cleansing agents that eradicate dirt, oil and impurities to prepare the skin for shaving. For summer, the Aquapower Water-Gel Moisturizer ($38.00) cools on contact and quenches dry skin with refreshing peppermint water and vitamins. The gel smells fantastic and absorbs quickly with no stickiness or residue. Dad works hard so don’t forget to include the Aquapower Eye De-Puffer ($31.00). The Alleviating formula helps diminish under eye bags, darkness and fatigue so he can get on with his day. Biotherm is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, The Bay, Rexall, Sephora and online at biotherm.ca.

The men in my family enjoy a little wrist candy and the Contemporary Link Watch from Avon is just $34.99! If you want to get dad a classic everyday essential, this simple design is stylish and functional. The dark silver and black combo is very masculine and goes with everything in his wardrobe – from jeans and a t-shirt to business casual. (Available at avon.ca)

David Beckham is known for being an exceptional soccer player and husband to Posh Spice but he also has a great personal care line called House 99. The Seriously Groomed Beard & Hair Balm ($35.00) tames unruly strands while increasing hold and reducing frizz for a neat, polished finish. (Available at beautyboutique.ca)

Guys love working with their hands so it’s no surprise that they suffer from dry skin, ragged cuticles and damaged nails. Avon’s Moisture Therapy Intensive Healing & Repair Cream is perfect for rough, calloused skin that needs serious hydration and softening.

For the gadget lovers on your list, the Sony Extra Bass Wireless Speaker ($59.99) is perfect for jamming-out to your favorite tunes. The battery life is 16 hours, Bluetooth syncing is quick and the sound is crisp and clear! My husband keeps his on our bedside table and listens to music while getting ready for date night. (Available at Best Buy, Walmart and Shoppers Drug Mart)

Coach for Men Eau de Toilette ($100.00) combines crisp notes of citrus, pear, warm cardamom, coriander and hints of vetvier for an intoxicating balance of muskiness and refreshing refinement. This is a cologne he will want to wear everyday and for special occasions. 

For guys with a sweet tooth, the President’s Choice Maple Fudge is a delectable treat! Made with real maple syrup and natural flavors, the taste is authentic and truly Canadian. (Available at Loblaws)

Happy Father’s Day!