Living Well With Montel: 6 Quart Pressure Cooker & 1200W Emulsifier Blender Review

These days many families are busy and constantly on-the-go which makes it difficult to eat healthy. I work long hours, travel frequently and attend events all over the city so having appliances that can make quick, delicious meals is imperative for getting my daily dose of vitamins, protein, dairy, grain, fruits and veggies.  

The last thing many of us want to do after a long, hectic day is spend hours in the kitchen and less time with our loved ones which is why Montel’s 6 quart pressure cooker is handy to have. Admittedly this was my first time using a pressure cooker but being able to create mouth-watering dishes in minutes is very convenient. 

The appliance is a bit bulky (which is common) but it is large enough to cook a complete meal for the family which makes it functional. The cooker has 12 preset cooking cycles including: soup/stew, canning, slow cooker, beans/lentils, fish/steam vegetables, chicken/meat and keep warm. You simply turn it on, select your cooking mode and adjust the timer if need be. For a newbie like me, having preset options is helpful but you can’t start the cooker without first choosing one of the cycles even for dishes that don’t quite fall into any of the categories. With a little experimenting it becomes easy to determine how long to cook each meal.

The device is user friendly in terms of it's settings but I did initially have issues with the locking mechanism on the cover since it doesn’t click into place as tightly as expected and getting it on properly takes a bit of patience. While cooking there was steam escaping from the lid no matter which way I attached it (which may be how it was designed to work) but the easy pressure release button is a great feature. There are also a variety of safety features that prevent mishaps or misuse which is much better than older models. The cooking pot is deep and non-stick which makes it easy to clean and the modern LED screen displays the timer which beeps when the dish is ready and automatically stops cooking. The device also comes with a spatula, measuring cup, steam tray and recipe book with Montel’s family recipes.

At first I found the water ratio a bit difficult to understand. You have to add water to all dishes because as pressure builds, steam (aka water) is released to keep food succulent. If it dries out, seasoning and other substances can burn at the bottom of the pan so the dish I made actually required more fluid than the recommended amount for poultry. Once you understand how much water is required in relation to pre-heat and cooking time, the process is relatively simple.

Unfortunately some of the time you save cooking is cancelled out by the 15-17 minutes it takes for the device to generate enough pressure, heat and steam to start the timer. I made a pack of boneless, skinless chicken breast which only took 15 minutes of actual cooking time + 17 minutes of pre-heating for a total of 32 minutes. The best thing about the device is how well flavor is accentuated and infused into food and you don’t need cooking oil which is much healthier! All ingredients and nutrients are locked in, absorbed and enhanced so everything is delectable and moist. The chicken tasted like I had marinated it for hours which my family loved!

My first pressure cooker dish was sweet and spicy chilli garlic teriyaki chicken with garlic and herb potatoes and steamed broccoli. I used a few of my favorite dry seasonings in combination with a blend of 3 marinades, onion and some diced tomato. I love that I can just put everything in, close the lid, set the timer and get other things done while dinner is cooking. The flavor you can achieve is outstanding which is why this device is definitely worth having in the kitchen. It retails for $99.99.

Smoothies are a great way to incorporate a lot of fruits and veggies into one drinkable meal that you can take on-the-go. I like adding things like dates, almonds, kale, spirulina, moringa, protein powder and natural honey. A breakfast smoothie boosts your energy for the day, satisfies your hunger and revs up the metabolism.

To emulsify frozen fruit and dense ingredients you need a sturdy blender and Montel’s has 1200W of power. There are 6 cycles including: puree, crush, soup, clean mode, and single serve plus 4 speeds: low, medium, high and pulse which are great for making marinades, salad dressings and baby food in seconds. The removable parts are dishwasher safe and it can also crush ice and grind.

I love that the blender also comes with a smaller travel cup with drinking spout so you can blend your drink in it, pop on the lid and go.

The plunger functions to push down and dislodge food but I find that stopping the blender and stirring the contents is more efficient. Although the device is powerful it is also very loud and sometimes it lags and pulses on its own which may be due to overheating or the sheer force of the motor but it is easy to control the texture of your food so smoothies are rich and creamy.

I can’t attest to the longevity of the blender since I've only had it for a few weeks but so far it has been working well and handling everything I put in it. I also like that the base has suction cups that adhere to the counter and stabilize the unit.

Strawberry banana smoothie with peach, strawberry yogurt, honey, dates and almond milk

Blueberry yogurt smoothie loaded with antioxidants

Green smoothie: mango, peach, pineapple, kale, strawberry, banana and spirulina with almond milk and peach yogurt

The Blender retails for $149.99 and these appliances can be purchased at livingwellwithmontel.com

Lancome Absolue Precious Cells Skincare Review

Recently I’ve been testing a few skincare collections from Lancome including Energie De Vie, Energie Multi-Lift and Visionnaire but the Absolue range is my new favorite! This collection targets dry, dull skin and rejuvenates the complexion with rich, conditioning formulas and potent anti-aging components for a fresh, youthful glow. 

After removing most of my makeup with a cleansing wipe and some sort of cream emulsion or micelle water, I use face wash to get rid of lingering residue. The Sublime Cleansing Foam is different from many formulas I’ve tried because it comes in a canister and dispenses as a smooth mousse. I like that it lathers right away with a light, fluffy texture that coats well and feels great. One small pump on my Clarisonic is all it takes to deep clean my entire face and eliminate excess oil, pollutants and pore clogging impurities without drying out my skin. The foam retails for $79.00.

The Absolue Precious Cells Moisturizer ($190.00) is a bestseller and after 20 years of research Lancome has perfected this luxurious formula. The lush texture melts in deeply to heal dryness, improve texture, smooth wrinkles, plump, firm, and rejuvenate with a radiant finish. Although the cream is quite rich, once absorbed it feels supple, refreshing and silky so you can wear it during the day and apply makeup on top. It doesn’t contain SPF but it does seem to help repair the effects of sun damage and alleviate sensitivity after exposure to environmental elements. If you have severely dry skin use a generous amount for an invigorating moisture boost that lasts all day.

There are a few night products in this collection and I’ve been testing 2 repairing and recovering formulas – one with French rose extract and one without. Both variations seem to yield the same results with a nourishing, buttery consistency that drenches skin in layers of suppleness and supports its natural ability to repair. The cream instantly smooths rough areas to improve texture, soften, reduce wrinkles, strengthen, enhance density and eliminate puffiness so you awake looking well rested. In just 7 days skin is supposed to appear more youthful with a beautiful dewy glow and my complexion is replenished, clear and velvety so makeup applies flawlessly and blemishes are minimized. The effect is like a re-energizing night mask and mini-facial all-in-one, similar to the results you’d experience after undergoing a reviving spa treatment. Absolue Night retails for $205.00.

If you prefer a gel moisturizer, the Absolue Advanced Youthful Lotion ($84.00) wraps skin in silky softness with a light water base that seeps in quickly with no residue. During the warm summer months this formula is refreshing, hydrating and less dense than the creams plus it plumps and creates an even canvass for makeup with a luminous finish.

Sometimes the delicate skin around my eyes becomes dry and sensitive so I look for products that can gently hydrate while fading dark circles. The Intense Revitalizing Eye Cream ($136.00) improves the eye contour, deeply moisturizes, reduces wrinkles and revives the eye area so you look well rested even when you aren’t. Although I haven’t noticed significant brightening, the infusion of shea butter and rose oil is just what I need to recover from the drying winter and when used under concealer there is no creasing. I experienced no irritation or burning and massaging the excess into my brows seems to condition the hairs.

The Nourishing Lip Balm smells like fresh roses with a hint of honey and other hydrating oils to replenish damaged lips. The creamy balm-like texture alleviates on contact and overtime chapped skin and peeling is smoothed away. Although the $50.00 price tag is in the high-end range, my lips feel smooth, supple and plush for a lot longer. It also shields against harsh climate and you can lightly layer it under cream lipsticks or gloss.

Lancome is available at department store counters nationwide, Shoppers Drug Mart and Sephora

Dior Poison Girl Perfume Review

When I was a little girl I loved exploring my mom’s impressive perfume collection displayed atop an elegant glass tray on her dresser. One fragrance I distinctly recall is Poison - the alluring black bottle resembled an irresistible elixir and the scent was powerful and intoxicating. Now there is a new aroma on the market, a signature blend for a modern generation of young women who are confident and sexy.

Poison Girl still maintains the sophistication and luxury of past formulas with a fresh new twist that tantalizes and seduces the senses. It is modern, classy and bold with bittersweet ambiance and feminine flare suitable for day wear and sultry enough for a night out.

The fragrance opens with juicy iced fruit and a blend of sweet Sicillian orange contrasted with refreshing bitter orange. The middle notes include sparkling neroli and the peppery honeyed power of rose which enhances the zesty citrus. The base is composed of soothing vanilla and tonka bean to warm the floral bouquet and you can catch hints of almond and cashmere. At first whiff I also detect a faint cherry-like aroma which may be the ripe fruit mixing with the complexity of other notes.  

Poison girl combines many of the scents I love with well rounded sweetness balanced with deep enchanting ingredients for a soft, creamy delicious fragrance I can’t get enough of! There is something light, fun and youthful at its core which caters to current styles and trends yet it is also bright, polished and refined which makes it perfect for all occasions and seasons.

If you are looking for an amazing new perfume this is definitely a treat for women of all ages and it makes a great gift for Mother's Day. The 30ml bottle featured here retails for $72.00 and it is also available in larger bottles at Dior counters nationwide including Sephora and Hudson’s Bay.

Avon True Color Nourishing Lipstick Review

If you follow me on social media you probably know that I’m obsessed with Avon’s Matte Lipstick but if you prefer a satin finish with a hint of cushiony shine, the Nourishing formula is beautiful!

The shade selection is fabulous so no matter what your style you’ll find an array of complexion flattering hues and maybe even some all-time faves! These lipsticks are light, vibrant and very easy to wear for women of all ages so they make great gifts and with Mother’s Day coming up it’s a good time to stock up.

The formula glides on effortlessly with no drag and saturates lips in bright, trendy pigment with buildable coverage. The radiant effect makes lips appear a bit plush and pouty and they keep skin hydrated and smooth with decent staying power. I like the fruity scent and you don’t need a liner for neatness since the color doesn’t bleed.

In the red spectrum some of my favorites (left to right) are Berry Sangria, Playful Rose, Ruby Kisses and Truffle which is actually from the Beyond Color Collection containing SPF 15. These shades have gorgeous undertones suitable for all skin tones and I enjoy blending different hues to lighten or deepen the color. These tones are great for all seasons and the smooth texture drenches parched lips in creamy comfort

In the pink and orange range I love Spring Lilac, Cherry Blossom and Mellow Melon which are perfect for summer. Sometimes the glossy consistency does require a few well placed layers for even coverage but they keep lips soft and supple.

When you’re in the mood for something soft and neutral, Pink Peony is a great choice.

Left to right: Peony Blush, Ruby Kiss, Cherry Blossom, Truffle, Playful Rose, Berry Sangria, Spring Lilac and Mellow Melon

The lipsticks retail for just $10.00 each at avon.ca or through independent consultants. To check out the stunning matte shades click HERE.

Lancome Matte Shaker Review & New Juicy Shaker Shades

When Lancome released the Juicy Shakers, makeup junkies everywhere became obsessed with the lightweight, radiant formula that nourished dry lips with delicious color. Now you can experience the same hydration in a bold new finish. 

The new Matte shades come in the same cute martini shaker packaging with a moisturizing bi-phase oil and the intensity of liquid lipstick for durable comfort. The luxurious emulsion clings to lips like a second skin for extreme coverage and optimal staying power plus the cushion soft applicator was redesigned to soak up more product and provide precise application. The pointed tip makes maneuvering around the lip contour and edges efficient so it's easier to reapply on-the-go. 

When the color glides on it feels cool, alleviating and moist but dries quickly. Even though the formula isn’t creamy and the color dries matte, the underlying oils seep in and deeply condition to prevent skin from becoming parched. My lips feel plush, silky and healthy with no residue or tightness and the tint creates a full, pouty effect. If you want to switch from matte to shine without compromising color, simply layer a sheer Juicy Shaker on top.

Shades from left to right: Kiss Me Cherie, Yummy Pink, Magic Orange & Pink Power

The pigmentation is wonderfully versatile! For sheer to medium coverage simply shake less to limit the amount of color on the applicator and apply a thin layer or two. For more vibrancy shake more and keep layering to achieve your desired saturation and intensity. No matter how much I use, the formula remains light and virtually undetectable while still providing enough hydration. The color lasts for hours and wears away into a pretty stain. You can also create fun ombre looks by using one shade on the top lip and another on the bottom. The pink - orange combo is perfect for spring!

I absolutely love these lip colors and there are 7 matte hues to choose from for $29.00 each.

The original Juicy Shaker Collection gained a few trendy new shades that are gorgeous and glossy! They provide subtle, translucent color with a light, smooth texture that melts in to heal and revive dry skin. Loaded with peach, cranberry and sweet almond oils the formula feels and smells fantastic without being greasy, sticky or slick.

Cloudy Candy, Bohemian Raspberry & Top Gum

Unlike the matte shakers, these separate into 2 layers – color and oil, so they need to be mixed prior to application to form the perfect blend of shine and hydration. They also retail $29.00 and come in a variety of flattering tints.

Lancome is available at The Bay, Sears, Shoppers Drug Mart, Sephora and lancome.ca

Update -

I have exciting news! I’ve recently learned that the Matte Shaker Collection is being extended to include even more amazing shades and I have 3 of the new colors (below) – Red’y in 5, Beige Vintage (my new favorite nude) and Energy Peach – a soft summery hue.

Essence Cosmetics All About Eye Shadow Palettes Review

Essence has some great makeup at affordable prices but when I swatched the new All About Palettes I knew I had to have them! In terms of color payoff, quality, vibrancy and glam-factor I think these pigments are some of the best the brand has to offer and they retail for just $5.99 each!

The texture of these shadows is smooth and a tad creamy so they apply well (I recommend a primer or base) and stay put all day without fading. The range of effects and shades are stunning with a flattering combination of neutrals, smokey hues, shimmer and glitter in matte, metallic and satin finishes. You can create a wide variety of looks from soft and office appropriate to bold and dramatic.

The palette that first caught my eye was All About Bronze. If you love shimmer and brilliant radiance then these shades are for you! All of these shadows have a glittering finish in a range of bronze, gold, champagne and silver tones plus the vivid sparkle is prominent and full-coverage with little fall-out. These colors look great on every skin tone and can even be used to highlight the face. If you are looking for show stopping eye shadow then you need this little palette in your makeup bag.

All About Roses includes a beautiful bronzy-garnet that I’m slightly obsessed with! There are 3 velvety mattes and 5 shimmery metallics in some seriously gorgeous shades. This palette is perfect for a night out and great for travel.

All About Toffee has a great balance of neutrals and deep contouring hues which creates beautiful contrast and definition. The dark grey-black is embedded with subtle blue glitter while the other shimmers are bright and multidimensional.

All About Vintage includes golden-bronze, deep bronze, black shimmer and a range of silver, cool grey and cream. It could have probably used a couple more matte hues but you can always mix and match with the other palettes.

Essence is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaws and Ulta Beauty in the U.S.

NYX Cosmic Metals Lip Cream Review

NYX has done it again! The brand has created edgy new pigments that are bold and otherworldly in a variety of metallic, shimmery hues. Recently there has been a lot dramatic lip trends on social media including unusual shades, glitter top coats and ombre so if you want your pout to stand out these lip creams are fabulous.

This lush formula is smooth, dazzling, glossy and multidimensional with consistent shimmer throughout. The pigmentation is very rich and saturated with unique shades like blue, black, green and gold plus the spectacular metallic effect is full-coverage! Although these creams are quite shocking (in a good way) I think of them as specialty shades since they aren't really appropriate for everyday wear. 

The icy blue makes me look frozen and the deep navy is like a beautiful galaxy. The liquid gold reminds me of an Egyptian queen and the bright green is perfect for St. Patty’s Day. To the general public most of these colors may seem strange but I think makeup junkies will enjoy them. I would rock these at a cool parties, concerts, clubs and of course Halloween plus once you pair them with the right eye shadow they are mesmerizing!

The cream is a bit thick in texture but very spreadable, comfortable and easy to work with. It does transfer with contact and leave behind glitter fragments but the stunning finish is totally worth it. The formula won’t cause dryness and I don’t find it sticky or heavy.

If you are looking for brilliant new pigment with a sparkly twist these are great! They retail for just $10.00 each at Shoppers Drug Mart, free standing stores and online at nyxcosmetics.ca

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Recovery Mask-In-Oil & The Smoother Universal Perfecting Primer

Radiant, blemish-free skin is something many of us strive for in order to capture the perfect selfies and feel confident with or without makeup so today I'll be reviewing a few essentials from Estee Lauder.

Skin heals and replenishes while we sleep, so using the right products at night is imperative for a healthy complexion. The new Advanced Night Repair Mask-In-Oil can be applied as the last step of your beauty routine and acts as a “repair lock” to help seal in the benefits of your night serums and moisturizers. Formulated with a potent blend of healing oils, antioxidants, natural extracts and botanicals, it forms a nourishing cocoon that fortifies, rebuilds and rejuvenates to prepare skin for the day and enhance resistance to environmental assaults.

Just 2-3 drops is enough to create a revitalizing mask and it works well with most of my night care products to form a silky, light layer that also moisturizes, softens and promotes a natural glow. The scent is very light and once absorbed my skin is clear and smooth with a beautiful, healthy sheen.  Although it was formulated as a booster, the oil also works well on it's own and rubbing the excess into your cuticles is a great treatment for brittle nails. The Night Repair retails for $100.00.

When you awake in the morning with a gorgeous glow you may want to keep your complexion looking that way all day so the new Smoother Primer comes in handy for all skin types. I’ve been using this lightweight gel base for weeks now and I love how even and silky it makes my skin. The formula does seem to have a silicone consistency but it isn’t overly slick and waiting a few minutes allows it to set and form a smooth matte canvass for makeup. It also helps minimize pores and balance rough areas so that products apply consistently.

If you prefer a creamy primer that also acts as a moisturizer and brightener then The Illuminator may be more suitable. This primer has a soft pearlescent finish that boosts radiance to create natural looking luster for beautiful skin. You can wear it alone, under makeup (although the luminous effect may be dulled by foundation) or as a finishing product to highlight. Although it doesn’t smooth the skin as dramatically as the other primer, it still creates a nice velvety surface to improve application and texture. The primers retail for $44.00 each.

Along with these fabulous products I have also been trying the new Revitalizing Supreme+ Global Anti-Aging Cell Power Eye Gelée which is a multi-action fatigue fighting treatment. I love the new pen design because it is great for travel and you can control the amount of product dispensed by simply adjusting the pressure you use while pushing the button on the side. This ensures that you don’t use too much and the smooth golden tip feels cool and invigorating which is perfect for massaging in the cream and stimulating blood flow to the area. Along with making you appear less haggard after a long day or sleepless night, the formula also firms, reduces puffiness, and diminishes the look of lines and wrinkles while brightening dark circles. The eye cream retails for $68.00. 

Estee Lauder is available at Holt Renfrew, Sears, Shoppers Drug Mart, The Bay, Murale, Sephora, Nordstrom, Saks and esteelauder.ca