L'Oreal Pure-Sugar Scrubs & Pure-Clay Mask Review

A new season has begun to bloom so it’s time to shed that dull winter skin and reveal the soft, dewy complexion underneath. To help you slough away those rough layers, L’Oreal has created a collection of delectable scrubs made with 100% natural sugars, nourishing fruit extracts, botanicals and oils.

Let’s start with the Kiwi Scrub for oily skin because it looks cool and smells delicious! This blend is formulated to cleanse, tone and unclog pores for total annihilation of blemish causing bacteria. It also doubles as a replenishing face mask and there are real kiwi seeds floating around in the fruity green gel. The micro-fine granules gently polish and retexturize while Peppermint and Lemongrass Oils soothe, purify and balance. Let the gel sink in for about 10-15 minutes after exfoliating and rinse with warm water to reinvigorate and renew your complexion.

The Cocoa infused scrub for dry skin smells yummy and feels creamier than the other formulas. It contains Coconut Oil and Cocoa Butter to moisturize and soften while the grains gently buff away dead cells to eliminate dirt, sebum and impurities. For a grittier texture, I use the scrub on clean, dry skin but for less intensity I dampen my face first. After treatment skin feels silky, rejuvenated and better prepared to absorb serums and creams.

The Pure-Sugar Scrub with Grapeseed, Acai and Monoi Oils, brightens and refreshes dull, tired skin. This exfoliant has the grittiest texture in the collection for effective resurfacing and cleansing. It instantly removes dry, flaky patches to reveal baby-soft skin that looks plump, bright and renewed. I use scrubs at least once a week for best results and I usually follow-up with a clay or moisture mask.

The scrubs can also be used on the lips to prevent and treat chapping, peeling and roughness or use the excess to exfoliate dry hands and cuticles! They retail for $14.99 each at drugstores nationwide. 

The Pure-Clay Mask ($14.99) is not a scrub but it does purify and smooth uneven skin tone to enhance your natural glow. Enriched with 3 powerful clays and Yuzu Lemon Extract, it eliminates pollutants, toxins excess oil and dead cells to cleanse and prevent breakouts. As the clay dries, it lifts out embedded debris, makeup and blemish causing dirt to keep pores clear and healthy.

Dior Capture Youth Serum Review and New Age-Delay Advanced Creme

There is no way to turn back time and since the “fountain of youth” does not exist, aging is inevitable. You can’t avoid getting older but you do have control over how well you age with Dior’s new Capture Youth Collection. This daily regime is inspired by predictive medicine that delays the signs of aging before they appear so you can love the skin you're in.

Many products on the market aim to soften lines and wrinkles or diminish problems that are already present and persistent. They may be effective to some degree but it is easier to prevent than treat and this luxurious collection is packed with powerful natural ingredients that control and improve the way your skin ages. The high concentration of antioxidants, botanicals and emollients, stimulates the epidermis, strengthens and retexturizes for a youthful appearance.

There are 5 serums available to customize your routine: Glow Booster, Plump Filler, Matte Maximize, Lift Sculptor and Redness Soother. Each formula is designed to work with the Captured Youth Creme for optimal results. They can also be mixed, matched and layered to create intensive treatments.

I’ve been using the Glow Booster Illuminating Serum ($120.00) to restore radiance and enhance moisture. This formula is 100 times more concentrated in Vitamin C than oranges and contains AHA to even skin tone, fade blemishes, brighten, correct, and improve texture. During periods of stress, jet lag or sleeplessness, the serum energizes and rejuvenates dull, lackluster skin while hydrating and smoothing. I use it to replenish my complexion after strenuous workouts, late nights and long flights. It also works wonders when skin is sensitive, irritated or red.

The serum is lightweight, gentle, non-greasy and comforting with a silky finish. It also absorbs quickly, sinks in deeply and smells great! Dior has perfected the medicine dropper to deliver precise single-drop application so there is no product waste.  

The Age-Delay Plumping Serum ($120.00) is one of my favorite primers for makeup! The luscious liquid feels like a refreshing drink for parched skin and the texture is supple and velvety. Infused with a nutritive blend of botanicals and Hyaluronic Acid the serum restores fullness, deeply hydrates, boosts elasticity, improves resiliency and protects against environmental aggressors. It also helps fill lines and smooth rough patches so skin appears even, dewy and healthy.

I layer the serums with the Captured Youth Creme ($120.00) to create a potent night mask that rejuvenates, repairs and prevents visible signs of aging as I get my beauty rest. The texture is rich, ultra nourishing and moisturizing to combat the effects of impurities, dryness and pollution while the antioxidants prevent free-radical damage. This is a fantastic cream for winter and it leaves skin incredibly soft, sleek and beautiful.

I’ve also discovered a new Miss Dior fragrance called Blooming Bouquet that has quickly become a favorite. The mini bottle ($90.00 for 30 ml) is great for travel and the scent is a refreshing new twist on the original perfume that debuted in 1947. This version is romantic, whimsical, stirring and modern. The dark, earthy notes were eliminated and replaced by a sparkling blend of pink peppercorn, rose, peony, citrus, patchouli and white musk. The result is an intoxicating, seductive aroma that is delicate, radiant and feminine.

Dior is available at The Bay, Sephora, Shoppers Drug Mart, Holt Renfrew and Dior counters nationwide.

Lise Watier Spring 2018 Urban Velocity Makeup Collection

While browsing the makeup isle at your local department store, you may notice that spring is finally in the air. This year’s theme is all about radiant shimmer and a combination of soft hues intertwined with pops of daring color. Lise Watier’s Limited-Edition Spring Collection may seem small but the intricate patterns and wearable pigments instantly draw you in.

The Urban Velocity Baked Eye Shadow Trio ($44.00) is sultry and luminous, featuring 3 gorgeous pigments that you will want to wear all the time. I couldn’t wait to swatch the deep garnet-plum (my favorite) and the velvety gold is my go-to shade for creating quick, effortless looks. These shadows are ultra-silky and luxuriously creamy with pearlescent pigments that provide a beautiful iridescent finish. The color payoff is buildable and concentrated for easy application and longevity plus there is little fall-out and no creasing. This palette is great for travel and the colors look good on everyone! You can also sweep the silver or gold onto the cheekbones for a beautiful highlight.

The Urban Velocity Marble Lipstick ($25.00) resembles a work of art with a blend of two trendy colors. I was excited to see how each shade would transfer onto the lips and hoped for a multi-colored effect. Unfortunately the plum overpowers the pink swirls completely but the formula is infused with nourishing Shea Butter to quench parched skin and keep lips soft and supple. I wouldn’t really classify this as “lipstick” because the finish and texture is similar to tinted balm with a faint wash of neutral color. If you layer generously, the purple darkens even more and compliments the garnet-plum shadow.

The Baked Blush ($34.00) has the same swirl motif as the lipstick but the predominate shade is coral-pink. The pigmentation is soft so you may need a few swipes to enhance the vibrancy but the color flatters all complexions and the silky texture blends seamlessly.  

The Rouge Fondant Supreme Lipsticks ($27.00 ea) are not part of the Urban Velocity Collection but they do complement the color scheme. Chloe and Amelia are both neutrals with sheer pigmentation, sensational shine and an antioxidant-rich formula that protects and conditions. Labrador Tea and soothing emollients make lips feel plush, hydrated and smooth with no stickiness. These “lipsticks” are also similar to tinted balms in terms of texture and color payoff with a lightweight, comfortable finish.

Lise Watier is available at Hudson’s Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart, Sears, London Drugs, Jean Coutu and online at lisewatier.ca.

Mary Kay Spring 2018 Collection: Makeup & Skincare

Winter may be coming to an end but it is still cold and dreary outside. After the icy winter winds have done their worst, it may be time to break out the conditioning moisturizers for total body rejuvenation. Mary Kay’s bath and body collection with African Shea, White Tea and Citrus, is ultra-nourishing, healing and soothing. There is also a new collection of makeup brushes and radiant eye shadows for all skin tones. 

The Satin Body Collection includes everything you need to pamper your skin with indulgent spa-like formulas that smell amazing! Start with a revitalizing shower to unwind after a long, hectic day. The Shea Scrub ($22.00) gently buffs away dead cells to leave skin soft, smooth and renewed. The polishing granules work wonders on elbows, knees and feet, exfoliating roughness and dry patches.

As the warm water and steam loosens tired muscles, lather-up with the Shea Wash ($22.00). This refreshing cleanser foams away impurities, oil and environmental debris while enveloping you in an intoxicating scent.

Towel-off and treat your body to a blast of hydration with the Whipped Shea Crème ($26.00). The smooth, buttery texture is rich and ultra-nourishing to instantly alleviate parched, sensitive skin. If you love body butters like I do then you will definitely appreciate how supple, plump and fortified your skin feels after using this lush formula. I like to apply it right after shaving so my legs feel irresistibly silky.   

I use the Whipped Crème at night before slipping into my pajamas and plunking down in front of the TV but during the day I prefer something lighter. The Shea Lotion ($22.00) melts in instantly for immediate dryness relief and a soft, velvety finish. The formula is non-greasy, fragrant and long-lasting so you can embrace the last few days of winter with total confidence and protection.

I travel frequently so the Essentials Brush Collection ($75.00) is ideal for creating a range of stylish looks on-the-go and it comes with a chic portable clutch. As you run your hand over the luxurious bristles you will notice that the high-grade, synthetic material is durable and flexible for seamless application. The handcrafted fibers are compatible with liquid, cream and powder formulas plus they feel soft against the skin. The kit includes: a fluffy Powder brush, Eye Smudger Brush to create detailed accents and smokiness, All-Over Shadow Brush, Crease Brush, Cheek Brush, and a Lip Brush.

No matter what your skin tone, Mary Kay’s new Mineral Eye Color Quads ($21.00 ea) are sure to add a little pizzazz to your day. The shades are expertly coordinated, easy to blend and very wearable for quick everyday looks or a romantic evening out.

The Shades of Jade Palette features cool, iridescent hues and a pop of deep navy for a little drama. The shadows are nicely pigmented with buildable coverage and although the colors are simple, they create soft, elegant looks.

Berry Haute is my favorite of the two palettes. It contains a pretty bronze, silvery-pink, glistening garnet and light pink-mauve that blend together to create a stunning effect. The shadows are silky, non-creasing and long-lasting plus the magnetic backing allows you to transfer them to a variety of portable palettes.   

Mary Kay is available at marykay.ca and through independent consultants

Pixi Beauty Liquid Fairy Lights Glimmery Eye Shadow - Review & Swatches

These days shimmer and glitter makeup is very trendy and you no longer have to wait for special occasions to amp-up the glam and get a little sparkly. To help you reach maximum radiance, Pixi has created a collection of Fairy Light Shadows that glide on liquid-y and dry quickly for a glow that doesn't quit. 

I actually prefer liquid glitter to pressed powder because it tends to be neater with minimal fallout and creasing. These pretty colors seem extra luminous with buildable coverage that allows you to gleam like a disco ball or tone things down to a soft glimmer. The micro-particles reflect light for diamond-like brilliance with very little transfer.

Use them on their own for a sheer wash of sparkle or layer the color for more intensity. The gold and bronze shades are more saturated with better color payoff whereas the silver hues have a translucent base. I prefer to apply the glitter over my favorite eye shadows as a top coat and this week I will be wearing the Rose Gold to Loreal’s Women of Worth Award Ceremony and Dinner hosted by the beautiful Helen Mirren.

Once dry, the glitter stays put all day and the doe-foot wand delivers a generous dose. The formula is quite comfortable with a nourishing infusion of natural botanicals to soothe, moisturize and help reduce fine lines (not many glitter shadows can do that!).

The Fairy Lights Shadows retail for $20.00 each and Pixi is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Pharmaprix and online at pixibeauty.ca.

NEW Maybelline Python Metallic Lip Kit Review & Swatches

I love finding innovative new products and I think Maybelline’s Python Lip Kits ($12.99) are a refreshing take on classic lipstick and the ombré effect. If you want to glam-up your pout without spending a ridiculous amount of time perfecting your lip art technique, these small palettes create pretty effects.

There are 4 color combinations available and each cream pigment comes with a matching metallic topcoat. The lipstick has buildable coverage with high color payoff so you can adjust the intensity. Unfortunately the kit does not come with a lip brush for application and you will probably need one to layer, shape and fill neatly. If I use my finger, the vibrant red applies inconsistently and looks more like a faded stain. There is also no mirror on the inside cover which would come in hand for touch-ups on-the-go. Despite having to keep a lip brush in my purse, the metallic - matte cream layered effect is stunning!

The shimmery garnet top coat in this palette looks great with Maybelline’s Color Sensational Lipstick in the shade Cruel Ruby ($9.99). This deep bombshell red has a bold matte finish that flatters all complexions.

Provoked consists of a beautiful nude lipstick paired with a glittery gold top coat. Together this dynamic duo has the perfect balance of elegance and drama for a night out. The moist cream keeps lips supple with a touch of moisture and the metallic pigment stays in place without scattering. The best part – you can also use the shimmer pigments as eye shadow for a coordinated look worthy of the runway.

I’ve also been warming-up to an unconventional shade of lipstick – Concrete Jungle. This cool grey tone is way outside my comfort zone but I decided to take the plunge and try it anyway. With the right eye makeup I can totally pull it off at one of my upcoming makeup events.

Maybelline is available at drugstores nationwide

Dior Makeup Essentials: Eye Reviver Backstage Pros Illuminating Neutrals Eye Palette, Flash Luminizer & Brow Styler

We all have a stash of makeup that we rely on to create quick, trendy looks with minimal effort so today’s post features a few essentials from Dior including subtle shadow, bold lipstick and of course well-groomed brows.

The Eye Reviver Palette ($72.00) consists of cool, neutral tones with an array of iridescent satins and matte finishes that are office appropriate and easy to wear. The creamy black liner accentuates the eyes while the deep aubergine-brown creates definition in the crease and smokiness under the lash line. The other shades are silky, non-creasing and sheer for simple elegance. I usually wear bright, dramatic color but the refined hues in this palette are very functional.

To transform your look from day to night, simply add a bold lipstick for contrast. The Rouge Dior Lipsticks ($43.00) in Poison (deep purple) and Absolute (classic bombshell red) go well with the simple shades in the Reviver Palette and the velvety matte texture is saturated and supple. The rich, creamy color makes lips appear incredibly luscious and the long-wear formula provides lightweight moisture for comfort and dryness relief. 

The Dior Flash Luminizer Radiance Booster Pens ($52.00) rejuvenate dull skin by brightening and creating a dewy glow. Use them illuminate facial shadows, revive tired eyes, conceal dark circles, hide blemishes and soften the look of fine lines. The hydrating fluid is dispenses directly onto the brush for easy application and seamless blending. There are about 8 shades available but choose wisely based on your needs. Some colors have a shimmery highlighting effect with multidimensional sheen while others have a creamy concealer/liquid makeup formula with no shimmer.

The Dior Addict Lacquer Stick ($43.00) in the shade Sulfurous is a gorgeous plum red that I’ve been wearing almost every day. The nourishing formula combines the intensity of a lacquer with the moisture of a hydrating lipstick and the buttery color glides on effortlessly, drenching lips in luscious shine. The balm-like texture is light, supple and juicy creating natural plumpness. 

We can’t talk about essentials without covering brow products because I never leave home without perfecting my arches. The Brow Styler ($36.00) and Bold Brow Mascara ($34.00) are the only products I need to line, shape and fill. The thin retractable pencils create sharp, defined lines and the deep shades are dark enough for my jet black hair. Use them to thicken sparse areas and brush on more color with the mascara for fullness and definition.

These products are available at Dior counters nationwide including The Bay and Sephora

Maybelline The Burgundy Bar Palette - Review & Swatches + NEW Vivid Hot Lacquers

I know I’ve been featuring a lot of Maybelline makeup recently but that’s because they keep releasing palette after glorious palette and I can’t get enough! When the Burgundy Bar came out I had to have it because burgundy is one of my favorite shades to wear and it looks sexy on every skin tone.

The mesmerizing shades range from soft champagne, bronzy-gold, silvery-grey and even a seductive burgundy-purple that makes your eyes look glamorous! The only thing missing is a gorgeous matte burgundy for crease definition but there is a matte brown and creamy taupe. The applicator is a bit old-school and not very functional but I never use the brushes that come with my palettes so it doesn’t bother me.

Now let’s discuss pigmentation because I am very impressed with the quality! The shadows are soft and velvety with great color payoff and a radiant finish. Even without primer they look magnificent and blend effortlessly with no creasing or fading. I use this palette with the matte hues in my Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette because when you combine the luminous burgundy with burnt red and orange tones they create a smoldering effect! This is definitely a palette you need in your collection, it retails for $17.99.

If you really want to embrace the burgundy trend (which I highly recommend), pair the pretty shadows with Maybelline’s Matte Ink in the shade 50 Voyager ($11.99). These liquid lipsticks are incredible with the longest lasting formula I’ve ever used (the women in my family are addicted). The pigment glides on rich and highly saturated before drying completely shine-free and the color clings to the lips all day like a temporary tattoo (don't worry about the sticky feeling, it doesn’t last). I always wear the Inks to parties and events because I can sip cocktails and eat without any fading or bleeding and after binging on popcorn at the movies I don’t have to reapply! Click HERE to see more shades with swatches.

The Burgundy Bar also goes well with the Vivid Hot Lacquers ($10.99 ea) and if you prefer a glossy finish these are stunning! The wand drenches lips in dramatic, high-impact color with a reflective vinyl finish that is plumping and juicy. 

Shades left to right: 70 So Hot, 72 Classic and 68 Sassy

Maybelline is available at drugstores nationwide

Too Faced White Peach Eye Shadow Palette Review

The Too Faced Peach Collection has been a favorite ever since the first fruity palette created a buzz in the beauty community and sold-out everywhere. One of the most recent additions is the White Peach Palette ($45.00) which features a beautiful array of shimmer, glitter and matte hues that look marvelous on all complexions.  

Like its predecessor (Just Peachy Mattes), this palette has a fabulous selection of wearable shades that go from neutral to dramatic, glamorous and smokey. The smooth velvety texture makes blending a breeze and the versatile crease and transition shades take your look to the next level.

Peach Suede makes a great base and pairs well with Glistening Peach which in my opinion is the star of this palette. The other show-stopping lid shades include Peach Ice (shimmering silver) and Peach Passion – a deep navy with multi-colored glitter that creates a sultry finish.

I recommend using a good primer to prolong wear and improve adhesion but the color payoff is buildable and the saturation is great. If this is your first peach palette you will notice the delicious scent of sweet fig cream wafting out from under the lid which is a delightful way to start the day. To reduce fallout, pat the glittery pigments on with a dampened brush instead of swiping, this also helps increase the intensity.

Too Faced is available at Sephora and online at toofaced.com

Shu Uemura Hair Mask Treatments

Women always ask how I keep my hair so silky, long and healthy but the answer isn’t simple, it requires continuous effort and effective products. If I had to narrow it down I recommend: limiting heat styling and damaging chemicals like hair dye, eat healthy, take multi-vitamins, cut back on sulfates and increase moisture. I also sleep on a satin pillowcase, use natural oils, trim split ends, do weekly scalp massages, use GummiBand coils instead of regular hair ties to prevent breakage, nourish my ends with luxurious serums, limit shampooing to prevent brittleness and deep condition 2-3 times per month for at least 1-2 hours.

Nothing resurrects and replenishes dull, parched strands like a good hair mask and Shu Uemura has developed a wonderful collection of treatments for normal to thick hair.

The Color Luster Brilliant Glaze Mask ($66.00) preserves the vibrancy of color treated hair and functions like a protective varnish to prevent fading without sulfates. I’ve never dyed my hair but the formula also strengthens, restructures, softens and boosts shine to help counteract the damaging effects of over-processing. If you have thick hair, the treatment can be used as regular in-shower conditioner for more hydration.

My hair sucks up moisture like a sponge so I don’t have to worry about limpness. If you have thin hair or fine strands these formulas might be too heavy.

The method I use to get the most from my hair mask is simple:

1. Shampoo, rinse and use a light conditioner with lots of slip to detangle. The Tangle Teezer Aqua Brush works like a charm.

2. After rinsing, part your hair into manageable sections and apply the mask. Saturate the ends thoroughly and comb through evenly to distribute the product.

3. Tie or pin your hair up at the top of your head and cover with a plastic (disposable) shower cap.

4. Wrap your head with a hair towel/turbie twist for 1-2 hours to trap in the heat and enhance absorption. To speed up this process use the heat from your blow dryer to warm the plastic cap for 15-20 mins and rinse thoroughly.

5. Air dry or use the cool setting on your blow dryer and style as usual.

*Note: Adjust the treatment time based on your hair type or follow the directions on the jar.

Silk Bloom with Argan Oil ($66.00) is formulated for damaged hair. It deeply restores and fortifies to prevent split-ends, frizz and breakage. This thick, creamy treatment is great for people who use heat appliances like blow dryers, curling rods and flat irons because the conditioner rejuvenates rough, brittle strands by enveloping each one in rich, nutritive moisture for a radiant finish. I notice immediate improvement in texture - my hair feels incredibly soft, smooth and polished with a glossy sheen that lasts until my next wash day. It also makes a wonderful detangler and smells fantastic!

The colorful coils you see around the jars are GummiBands – they protect my hair from breakage and hold my ponytail snugly without denting or crinkling. There are a variety of trendy shades to choose from and the gummi material does not absorb oil, sweat or water. The cords are easy to remove without yanking out strands of hair and a box of 4 retails for $7.99 at gummiband.ca.

Shusu Sleek ($66.00) is paraben and silicone free for coarse frizzy hair. Inspired by Japanese silk, this luxurious formula works wonders on curls and thick waves by deeply nourishing, moisturizing and maintaining the natural shape of your spirals. It creates movement, bounce and body without poof and the power of Black Cumin Oil drenches hair in vitamins to help slow hair loss, soften and alleviate scalp irritation. Like the other masks in this collection, the rich formula is great for repairing damage, protecting against environmental elements and strengthening to prevent breakage but the scent is a bit spicy.

The results I achieved with these treatments were much better than anything I’ve experienced at high-end salons and my hair looks healthy and lustrous. Shu Uemura is available at Hudson's Bay, Sephora and online at shuuemura.ca.

Since we’re talking about hair care, I should also mention my collection of Tangle Teezer Compact Stylers because I recently got 2 new designs – the red lips with stripes and the adorable Hello Kitty ($21.00 - $25.00 each). I love these brushes because they fit in my purse and come with a cap that protects the bristles from getting warped. The long spindly teeth are perfect for detangling all hair types including long, thick tresses and I also use it to distribute conditioner and masks through my wet curls to enhance treatment results and make my ringlets more spring-y. They also comb through pesky knots with minimal hair loss and stimulate blood flow to the scalp. Tangle Teezer is available at The Bay, Sephora and online at tangleteezer.com.