Too Faced Melted Matte Liquefied Long Wear Lipstick Review

We all know that the liquid lipsticks from Too Faced are fabulous and the new matte collection is very trendy! Recently a few unique shades were added to the range including cool neutrals, pretty summer tones and even deep green - making the selection quite eclectic.

What I like most about the formula is how easy it spreads. The color starts out very fluid and glides across the lips for consistent coverage before the smooth, creamy liquid transforms to a matte finish. It may help to line the lips if you need some guidance but once set, the pigment stays put for hours of wear.

The color applies opaque and vivid with each swipe and although there isn’t a ton of hydration, the formula does retain some moistness to keep lips comfortable and relatively chap-free. I recommend light exfoliation prior to application because as the color dries down into the skin, it may accentuate roughness. With extended wear and after meals, the lipstick may start to flake and fade away which means it’s time to wipe-off the residue and apply a fresh coat.

The rich, solid color enhances your pout beautifully and there is just something sensational about a nice, matte finish that makes lips appear full and sexy!

Holy Chic is very nude and flesh-tone whereas Granny Panties looks unassuming but actually has an interesting taupe-brown-grey undertone that is quite different.

I’m obsessed with the deep green, appropriately named Wicked. It looks gorgeous with simple eye makeup, winged liner and lashes. All I have to do now gather the courage to rock green lips on occasions other than Halloween (I’m working on it). Jaw Breaker is a soft pink-lavender that is very trendy for the season. The matte shades also come in classic hues including: berry, red and pink.

The Liquid Lipstick retails for $21.00 each and Too Faced is available at Sephora and online at toofaced.com.

$5,000 Tresor Rare Intensive Recovery Japanese Binchotan Zumi Mask Review

Tresor Rare is a luxury skincare brand that makes a variety of potent treatments to rejuvenate the complexion quickly and efficiently for enhanced radiance and health. On a daily basis I use many high-end products but these $5,000 dollar Binchotan Zumi Masks are probably the most expensive treatments I’ve tried. 5K may seem like a hefty price tag but the active ingredient infused in these masks is unique, rare and costly.

To clarify: the retail price covers the entire kit which includes: 12 sheet masks and 1 bottle of charcoal serum packaged in an elegant faux lather case.

Kishu Binchotan is a type of Japaense charcoal – the best and highest quality charcoal in the world.  Due to its highly absorbent, porous composition, the charcoal is able to draw out and absorb environmental debris, dirt and bacteria to purify, cleanse and balance the skin. The Masks from Tresor are made with 100% pure Binchotan charcoal – offering the highest level of detoxification on the market and the most effective purification.

The charcoal is harvested from the hardwood of a tree grown in Japan. The wood is collected, burned and carbonized using traditional methods to preserve its richness and density. The mask fabric is composed of biodegradable plant fibers which are safe for the skin and the environment.

For anti-aging care, these masks provide ultimate penetration and positive ions that lift, tone and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while refining skin texture for a youthful glow. Because the formula absorbs so quickly, the recommended treatment time is just 10 minutes although I usually keep it on for 25 minutes.

To prepare my face and ensure that my skin is highly receptive to the ingredients, I begin by deep cleansing and exfoliating with a foaming face wash, using my Clarisonic or Foreo Luna which utilize powerful sonic vibration. Before applying the mask, I open my pores by using a face steamer for about 5 minutes.

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The sheet mask (which is black in color) is thoroughly drenched in nourishing serum for optimal results and the scent is lovely! Make sure to remove and unfold the mask with care to prevent tearing the delicate material. A thin separator sheet folded into the mask would have made handling it a bit easier but it adheres to the face like a second skin – better than any other sheet mask I’ve used. This fabulous clinging ability ensures that every drop of active ingredient is driven deep into the epidermis to expel toxins.

After about 20 minutes I notice a refreshing cooling sensation and my skin is hydrated, supple, smooth and bright. I’ve also noticed a reduction in irritation, sensitivity and pimples (including hormonal blemishes) and my complexion appears more radiant, clear and even with no dry patches or roughness. It has also helped correct discoloration and repair areas of heat rash and sun damage.

The beautiful bottle contains a luxurious active charcoal serum that starts off black and disappears into the skin with no residue. The directions for this formula aren’t as clear – there is no indication whether it should be applied directly after the sheet mask but that seems to be the most effective method. The serum is light and non-greasy so it melts in quickly and acts as a base for any moisturizer or makeup you layer on top. I like knowing that my skin is being detoxified and protected as I get my beauty rest.

I usually end my treatment by applying my night care products including the amazing Tresor Rare Ultimate Pearl Protecting and Defending Cream which has dramatically improved the overall health and resilience of my skin. You know a product is good when people around you begin noticing how amazing your skin looks and using my Arbonne Genuis Ultra Tool to melt the formula in deeper, works wonders! Since incorporating Tresor into my daily routine my complexion is fresh, replenished and luminous.

Tresor Rare is available online at tresorrare.com

Tei Spa Beauty - Ojo Renew Review

When it comes to skincare I’ve learned something quite valuable – the method you use to apply products is just as important as the quality of the products used. Since incorporating a few professional tools into my nightly routine, I’ve experienced rapid results and my complexion is clear and blemish-free.

One of the most difficult skin issues to correct (for me personally) is dark under eye circles so when I got tired of slathering on tons of concealer, I decided to try another option. The Ojo Renew device uses microcurrent technology, thermal energy and massage to aid in the effectiveness and absorption of skincare products. The vibration and warmth also helps tighten, firm and reduce tension, redness and inflammation around the eyes and mouth.

I apply my cream or serum and gently pass the device under my eyes, massing the product in slowly. The smooth metal tip glides across the skin reducing puffiness and as it heats up, active ingredients are absorbed deeper into the epidermis. The sensation is stress-relieving and painless – effective for relaxing muscles, increasing circulation and alleviating tired, strained eyes after hours on the computer or cell phone. The shape of the application surface fits into hard to reach areas with ease, efficiently targeting problem areas. The vibration frequency is 158 times per second and the Ojo is easy to wipe clean and maintain.

Although the Ojo Renew is made for at-home use and professional treatments, there are some design flaws with the unit I received. The Function Selection Ring (used to change settings) is stiff and a bit difficult to adjust. The Ojo can only be turned on when the application surface (the silver tip) is in direct contact with the skin – so to start the device, just touch it to the treatment area and begin. This seems simple enough but there doesn’t seem to be an off switch. To stop the vibrations you must stop using the device completely and avoid touching the massage head. It does come with a protective cap that can prevent it from turning on when not in use but mine is very loose and does not stay on at all. There was also no carrying case which would have been handy for travel. I do like that the Ojo is rechargeable – it comes with a USB charging cord and has a run time of aprox 1.5 hours (20-25 uses at 3-5 mins each).

Since I began using this device along with my Foreo Iris, I’ve noticed a substantial improvement and rejuvenation in my eye area. The darkness has been reduced so my skin appears bright, smooth and soft and I can use less makeup. In the morning I use the cool setting to soothe, awaken and refresh my eyes (including the lid area) and reduce any puffiness. At night I switch to the warm setting which feels fabulous after a long day!

The kit retails for $95.00 and also comes with the 24K Gold Firming Serum which sells for $55.00 when purchased separately. The lightweight, silky formula is enriched with brightening agents, rose extract, anti-aging peptides and hyaluronic acid to correct, soften, revive and firm the eye area while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. 

For more information or purchases visit the website at teispa.com

Garnier Fructis Super Fruits – Super Hair Review

A few weeks ago I received a large box of hair products containing 12 bottles of shampoo packaged in cute smoothie bottles infused with fruit protein. It was one of the most delicious smelling packages I’ve ever opened and the new range is paraben-free, vegan and bursting with nourishing vitamins!

Each collection is enriched with a specific fruit extract to target different hair types and concerns. The first set of shampoos I tried included:

*Coconut Oil (Triple Nutrition Butter Rich Collection) – strengthens and quenches dry, brittle hair for revival and strength.

*Citrus Extract (Pure Clean) – infused with antioxidants for daily refreshment and shine.

*Acai Berry (Color Shield Collection) – maintains the vibrancy of hair color for up to 8 weeks with UV filters.

*Pomegranate (Full & Plush Collection) – for thickening, fullness and softness.

*Amala Extract (Damage Eraser Collection) – reconstructs damaged hair to preserve strength, vitality and shine.

I like that the shampoos are paraben-free and very fragrant, but they would have been even better without the sulfates. They all worked well to remove excess oil, pollutants and impurities from root to tip but I had to follow-up with a generous amount of conditioner to counteract the cleansing ingredients. If you have oily hair or scalp build-up, these formulas are great and the shampoo is only $5.29.

The rest of the Super Fruits line includes:

*Avocado Oil (Triple Nutrition Collection) – for silky smooth, luminous results.

*Cactus (Moisture Lock Collection) – strengthens strands, prevents moisture loss and enhances shine for 48 hours.

*Grapefruit (Clean & Fresh Collection) – refreshes and energizes for softness and manageability.

*Argan Oil (Sleek & Shine Collection) – for a sleek, glossy finish.

*Apple Extract (Grow Strong Collection) – fortifies weak, limp hair and brings it back to life.

*Marula Oil (Damage Eraser)

My preferred line is the Citrus Moisture Lock which prevents frizz and provides light hydration to help revive parched ends. Although the formula isn’t rich enough for deep conditioning results, it is light enough for frequent use and comes with a good leave-in for softness and curl revival. The retail packaging does not resemble the smoothie bottles featured here - they are brightly colored and distinguishable so you can quickly identify your faves.

The best thing about this range (besides the fragrance that leaves my hair smelling fabulous for days) is that it you can mix and match treatments if you have more than one concern. I often use a combination of the Argan, Apple and Cactus products for shine, growth and moisture plus the conditioners are good for detangling and daily co-washing.

Fructis is available at drugstores nationwide

Mark Pout Lip Paint Review

If you’re on the hunt for vivacious lip color and vibrant summer hues, why not try Lip Paints – one of the hottest new beauty trends for creating a show-stopping pout.

The flashy new Paints by Mark are bright, bold and beautiful! There are 8 shades available – 4 Vinyls with a high-shine finish and 4 Velvets that are smooth and matte. The pure-pigment formula with built-in primer guarantees effortless glide and even application with each swipe.

The Velvets are available in: Quiet (flesh tone nude), Spark (electric orange-coral), Fancy (deep burgundy plum) and Fantasy (mid tone purple). If you prefer luminous gloss for a voluptuous look, the Vinyl finish comes in: Shocking (bright fuchsia), Covet (dark blackberry shimmer), Cozy (nude with pink undertone) and Glamour (vivid orange-red). All of these shades have a gorgeous lacquer glaze to showcases the color.

No matter which shades you choose, prepare to be amazed by how full-coverage and striking these colors are. They glide on rich and creamy - drenching lips in intense pigment and supple moisture for hours of comfortable wear. The matte shades seem to be more durable when it comes to resisting transfer and you can diffuse the color to create a pretty blurred effect. The Vinyls are reflective and ultra-brilliant for a polished look without stickiness. 

The applicator is a standard gloss wand but it gets the job done and the buttery texture is easy to spread and blend for precision and consistency. I don’t think there are any natural emollients in the formula but it does prevent dryness without feathering or bleeding.

The orange shades are the brightest in the collection with neon finishes that make a bold statement.

The pink and purple spectrum is my personal favorite – ranging from dazzling to deep.

If you prefer something less dramatic, the neutrals are tame yet flattering.

Mark is available at avon.ca and through independent consultants

Maybelline The 24K Nudes Eye Shadow Palette & Master Blush Color & Highlight Kit

Today I’ll be reviewing a few new palettes from Maybelline that coincide with popular beauty trends and fun summer looks. The pigments include neutral shadows, strobing liquid, vibrant blush and color correcting kits designed to help you achieve a flawless complexion.

The 24K Nudes Shadow Palette ($11.99) is a bit flashier than your average neutral palette – offering dazzling colors infused with metallic gold. The deep brown, smokey black, warm bronze, garnet and glittery grey contrast beautifully with subtle cream and champagne hues in both matte and shimmer finishes.

The texture is silky, smooth and little buttery but some of the shades apply quite sheer so you may need a good primer and a few layers to boost the intensity. The shade selection is simple yet flattering on all skin tones with enough variety to take you from day to night. Some of the shadows could use a bit more vividness but they hold-up well without fading or creasing and the palette is convenient for travel.

I love a good blush palette and the Master Blush Color & Highlight Kit ($15.99) was designed to unleash your inner artist with a lovely array of pigments that can be mixed and matched to create custom shades. The deep burgundy-plum (my personal fave) has the best color payoff in the palette and the silky powder can also be used to contour and define. The coral and pink are softer hues but they are buildable and the radiant silver highlight has a pink undertone that brightens the complexion with a pretty flush.

The Master Camo Color Correcting Kit ($14.99) is another multi-purpose product with 6 creamy shades for correcting discoloration, concealing blemishes and illuminating. There are 3 color collections to choose from: Light, Medium and Deep - corresponding to the unique undertones of various skin tones. I have the Medium Kit and each row is labelled for a clear indication of how to use each color. The creams are very smooth for easy blending and the quality and coverage is quite good for camouflaging problem areas and evening the complexion. I recommend using a setting powder to lock-in the color for longer wear, but if you are looking for an affordable anti-blemish kit this is a good option.

Since everyone is after a gorgeous glow, Maybelline has created the Master Strobing Liquid ($12.99) in 3 shades to create multidimensional luminosity. This cream-liquid formula is bright, full-coverage and high-impact but you can adjust the intensity by using less if you don’t want to look like a disco ball. I have the lightest color and the shimmer appears very silver and chromatic. Since the formula is easy to apply and rub in, you can also use it on the body to highlight the legs, arms, torso, back and wherever else you wish to glow.

Maybelline is available at drugstores nationwide and online at maybelline.ca

It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ & Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer Review

It Cosmetics is very popular in the U.S. and their bestselling products have taken the beauty industry by storm - fusing quality makeup with nourishing, anti-aging skincare. Now Canadian beauty junkies won’t have to cross the border to test pigments or swatch colors because the brand is launching here at Sephora!

When I think of CC Cream (color correct) I expect hydration, light to medium tinted coverage and maybe some sunscreen but this rich formula offers so much more! The full-coverage pigment is amazing and works more like a foundation to even skin tone, cover blemishes and protect with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF. It also increases hydration up to 179%, enhances brightness, hides dark spots and minimizes pores for a supple, flawless finish.  

Enriched with an advance anti-aging blend of hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, niacin, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and vitamins B, C and E – your skin gets the nutrients and support to thrive and glow. The liquid is easy to blend with the Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush ($48.00), Beauty Blender or whichever method you prefer and it holds up well under extreme conditions including: heat, humidity and perspiration. I have no issue with fading, smudging, oxidizing or transfer and it doesn’t leave my skin feeling dry.

Since the pigment does contain high levels of SPF, I do notice more shine which can appear greasy if not set with finishing powder. For a smooth, matte finish, the Heavenly Luxe Wand Ball Powder Brush is perfect for the job. The soft, fluffy bristles were designed for precise blending to blur the look of lines and pores.

Usually I don’t fare well with SPF products and although I did not experience any irritation from this formula, it would be nice to have a sunscreen-free option.

You don't have to use a lot of CC Cream to achieve great coverage and the finish appears light and natural - like a second skin with no heaviness or caking. It effectively covers skin discoloration for smooth, seamless results - if you can find the perfect match. The color selection has been expanded but there are still only 7 shades to choose from including: Fair, Light, Medium, Medium Tan, Tan, Rich and Deep.

The closest match for me in the CC Cream is Rich but as you can see from the swatch below, it is still too dark so I have to mix it with a lighter shade. The concealer I use is Deep which blends in well and brightens the eye area.

When it comes to concealer I haven’t strayed much from my trusty Pro-Longwear by MAC but I love the Bye Bye Under Eye formula – also referred to as “8 hours of sleep in a tube.” You know a product is good when other people notice a difference in your skin so this little tube may be my new “holy grail” camouflage.

This bestselling, award-winning, waterproof concealer was developed by a plastic surgeon to deliver high-impact, full-coverage color that won’t crack, cake or crease. I also like that the texture adheres well with bit of stickiness which allows the pigment to cling and stay put. Because of this, you can layer to achieve your desired level of coverage without disrupting the color placed at the bottom. Like the CC cream, a little goes a long way and a few small dabs is usually enough to cover all my problem areas.

I work on my dark circles all the time with nightly treatments and sonic massage but this product covers them instantly when I need a quick fix. It conceals bags, redness, hyperpigmentation, blemishes, age spots and discoloration while anti-aging peptides, vitamins, collagen and hyaluronic acid, hydrate and diminish the look of lines.
*Tip: Make sure to set the concealer well to avoid shine.

The CC+ Cream retails for $38.00 and the concealer is $24.00. It Cosmetics will be available at Sephora and you can visit the website at itcosmetics.com.

Shu Uemura Shusu Sleek Hair Care Review

During the summer hair is exposed to harsh UV, humidity, indoor cooling systems, chlorine from the pool, salt water and many other factors that can affect health and growth. Combine these elements with heat styling and you have a recipe for dry, unruly hair. The Shusu Sleek Collection by Shu Uemura is designed to discipline the most unmanageable mane with a luxurious blend of Japanese Satin and Black Cumin Oil - also known as “the oil of Pharaohs.” Cumin contains rich omega oils that heal, strengthen and replenish damaged strands for breakage protection.

I am quite familiar with cumin because I use it for cooking and these products do emit a natural spiciness balanced by a wonderful perfume scent. Lathing-up with this aromatic blend is an invigorating experience! The shampoo foams away dirt, excess oil, impurities and product build-up while detoxifying the scalp and cleansing the follicles from root to tip without stripping. As the first phase of treatment, it also helps manage frizz and the formula is free of parabens and silicone. The shampoo retails for $46.00.

I use conditioner a lot more than shampoo and I love this smoothing formula! The light, creamy texture glides through the hair and coats each strand for easy detangling and a rejuvenating boost of moisture. Allow the ingredients to seep in for a few minutes – the steam from the shower enhances absorption and softens coarseness. After use my curls are shiny, bouncy, sleek and more manageable. The conditioner retails for $56.00.

The Treatment Masque ($66.00) is the way to go if you seek revival and intense nourishment. The ultra rich texture is heavier than the conditioner so it clings well and drenches hair in lush moisture. Rough, split-ends are fortified and limp, dull strands are resurrected for a glossy, frizz-free finish. I love how satiny and healthy my hair feels after treatment and the entire process seems to promote growth and protect against environmental aggressors.

Another summer essential that I’ve been using for years is the Shu Uemura Wonder Worker Air Dry/Blow Dry Perfector with Moinga ($42.00). The lightweight spray protects, softens, smooths, moisturizes and tames frizz to help prepare hair for styling. It can also be used as a leave-in conditioner and I often sprtiz it on damp curls to replenish my ringlets and dry ends.

When you’re in a hurry with no time to wash, condition and re-style - the Color Luster Dry Cleaner ($42.00) comes in handy. I don’t dye my hair but it does maintain the vibrancy of your color (natural or chemical) while the micro-fine powders absorb oil and impurities at the root. Hair feels fresh, clean and hydrated without any white residue or stickiness. The scent is light and pleasant and the product dispenses in a strong mist that targets the scalp.

Shu Uemura is available at Hudson's Bay, Sephora and online at shuuemura.ca

Acure Organics Skincare Review

I am fairly new to Acure Organics but I’ve been testing these products for weeks with fabulous results! If you haven’t tried the brand yet, you’re in for a treat. The formulas are free of toxic chemicals and harmful additives including: gluten, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, preservatives and artificial color plus they are cruelty-free and vegan friendly. The company uses plant-based ingredients and pure essential oils for optimum performance and efficacy.

You’re probably thinking that high-quality, organic products are costly but this luxurious skincare is actually very affordable! From cleansers, exfoliates, moisturizer, body wash and lotion - Acure caters to all your needs.

What I love most about the Cleansing Towlettes is that the first ingredients listed on the package after water is argan, grape seed, sesame and olive oils. There are no harsh ingredients that leave your face dry and the cloths are soft and thick. The scent of delicious coconut is just the icing on the cake because the wipes gently remove makeup, dirt, sweat and environmental toxins to cleanse and soothe. I also use them to wipe-off cream face masks and refresh my skin after a grueling workout. The 30 pack retails for $6.99.

The Brightening Facial Scrub ($9.99) is infused with extracts from the sea + argan oil, green clay, lemon peel granules, and a variety of fruit extracts that slough-away dead cells to reveal a soft, clean complexion. The exfoliating beads are the perfect texture for resurfacing and you can control the intensity by adjusting the dampness of your skin.

During the summer I spend a lot of time outdoors and the sun’s UV alters my skin tone. The Brightening Mask ($9.99) uses the power of Moroccan argan, chlorella and green clay to balance, fade skin discoloration and rejuvenate! The clay also foams and bubbles like a cleanser to rinse away oil and pore-clogging build-up. After treatment, skin is radiant, supple and better equipped to absorb moisturizer and serum.

Using the right products before bed is essential for clear, glowing skin because your body heals and regenerates while you sleep. The Night Cream ($17.99) is loaded with fruit extracts (acai, blackberry rose and pomegranate) plus an abundance of rich oils, antioxidants, stem cells and CoQ10 to deeply condition and replenish. It quenches thirsty skin and smooths roughness for plump, silky results. The Magical Wonderfluff ($19.99) is an overnight hydrating booster mask (for the face and neck) that fights wrinkles, strengthens and tones for a youthful complexion. I apply it over the Night Cream to create an intensive treatment.

We all know that Moroccan argan oil is like super food for the skin and very high in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids that repair, hydrate, tone, protect and replenish. The only ingredient in Acure’s essential oil is organic argan which makes it a fabulous multi-purpose product to use on the skin, hair, cuticles/nails and feet to eradicate dryness. I wish the bottle had a medicine dropper for controlled application because the pump usually dispenses too much but I love how velvety and smooth it makes my skin feel. The oil retails for just $12.99.

The Ultra Hydrating Body Wash ($9.99) is available in delicious scents and fragrance-free formulas for sensitive skin. The coconut blend smells like the beach - enticing your senses as nutritive fruit extracts lather, cleanse and moisturize the body from head-to-toe with no film or tightness. Finish-up with the lush Body Lotion ($9.99) enriched with cocoa butter, fruit extract, oils and CoQ10 for resilient, touchably soft skin.

Acure Organics is available online at acrureorganics.com and at various drugstores and shops throughout the U.S. and Australia. To find a list of retailers click HERE.