Review: Nivea Visage Microdermabrasion Kit

What They Say: The Nivea Visage Q10 Gentle Spa™ Micro-Dermabrasion Kit includes:

• Step 1
  Delicately Purifies & Prepares Skin for Micro-Dermabrasion
  Pre-Treatment Cleanser (2.5 fl oz / 75 ml)


• Step 2
  Gently Refines Skin's Texture
  Micro-Dermabrasion Gel (2.5 fl oz / 75 ml)


• Step 3
  Soothes and Revitalizes Skin's Youthful Appearance
  Post Treatment Balm SPF 15 (1.7 fl oz / 50 ml)

Toya’s Take: I’ve heard a bit about microdermabrasion, but, frankly, was kind of afraid to try this out at home. My skin tends to be quite sensitive and I figured this would cause me some problems. The cleanser felt pretty good – nothing special, but it didn’t seem to my skin feel funny at all. So far, so good. However, things changed when I used microdermabrasion gel. Instantly, my skin started stinging. After I rinsed it off, I noticed some redness and it continued to sting. I hoped that the post treatment balm would soothe the sting and it did, somewhat, but it didn’t go away entirely. According to the package, as an oily-skinned woman, I should use this product three or so times a week. On the positive side, I felt the difference in my skin right away – it felt softer immediately after using the products. On the other hand, though, I would never use this as often as recommended, for fear that I’d wind up with some serious damage to my skin. People with less sensitive skin may be more pleased with this than I was.

Retail Price: $16.99 (Drugstore.com)

Rating: - It did make my skin feel softer and smoother, but it caused quite a sting.

20:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Nivea

May 3, 2007 8:35 PM

Review: La Mer The Radiant Facial

What They Say: "The Radiant Facial is an intensive, two-part system that works synergistically to deliver and restore a clearer, more even complexion. In just eight minutes, the utmost in clarity, luminosity and brightness begins to appear. At the heart of this express system is an exclusive White Sea Ferment with the power to visibly transform the skin. Its exceptionally powerful energies come to life as specially harvested Bio-ceramic White Algae combined with vitamins, minerals and botanical ingredients journey through a months-long bio-fermentation process, transforming into a whole far greater than the sum of its parts. The express treatment begins with The Radiant Primer. Utilizing an Anti-Irritant Marine Complex, The Radiant Primer profoundly calms and soothes the skin. Brought to its most receptive state, skin is prepared to accept the extraordinary activity of The Radiant Mask. The Radiant Mask immerses skin in a triptych of activity: super brightening action, super anti-oxidants and super anti-irritants, delivering unprecedented benefits. Embedded with tourmaline, this luxurious, pure cotton mask drives the accelerated benefits quickly and deeply into the skin to achieve unparalleled results. The appearance of age spots, freckles and uneven pigmentation is quickly and radically diminished, dramatically evening the complexion. Rich in anti-oxidants. The Radiant Facial protects skin from an array of external offenses, preventing the appearance of future discoloration. An extraordinary clarity, luminosity and brightness glow from within as empowered skin takes on a radiant new life."

Jen's Experience: This was my first experience with La Mer products, and, quite frankly, one of the most expensive products I've tested, so needless to say, I was excited to try this facial mask. It says to use it twice in the first week and once a week from then on, for a total of 7 weeks per box. The first step for the kit is a vial of primer that's supposed to help with irritation. The actual masks comes in two pieces, cloths saturated with moisturizers and brighteners that you lay on your face for about 8 minutes. Usually, you wash off masks when you're done, but this one you just massage into your face and then follow with a night cream (they recommend Creme de la Mer, of course).

The first week, I did think that my skin looked a little lighter and brighter, but I didn't pick up on the pattern of dryness and breakouts until week two or three. The instructions do warn that those with dry or sensitive skin should take care to use the mask for only the recommended 8 minutes. For me, that wasn't enough. I got a little improvement by removing the mask after using it, but overall, the slight improvement I saw in my skin tone didn't make up for the dryness and the blemishes that follow the use of this mask. Perhaps those with normal to oily skin would have better results.

Retail Price: $320.00 (LaMer.com or major department stores)

Rating:

20:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, La Mer

March 15, 2007 9:03 PM

Review: DHC AHA Body Silker

What They Say: " New skin. Elbows, knees, and heels get particularly padded with dead skin and rough spots. Now you can take care of your flaky, bumpy bod with this exfoliating cream that’s made to moisturize and assured to soften. Alphahydroxy acids from lactic acid (found naturally in milk) sweep away the dusty, musty layer so your body glows from shoulder to toe.

The FDA recommends using a sunscreen and limiting sun exposure while using any AHA product and for one week after use is discontinued."

Melissa Says: Just as the description explains, this is a chemical exfoliant (as opposed to a scrub) and not a simple moisturizing lotion, so when you use this you do need to be extra-vigilant about protecting your skin with sunscreen during and a week after you use it (honestly, we should all be doing this even when we aren't exfoliating, right?).

I have to say, this definitely worked miracles on my feet, elbows and hands, not to mention the rest of my body. You just smooth it on after bath or shower and then wait a minute or two for it to fully absorb before dressing. It's barely got a scent at all, and what's perceptible is a gently fresh scent. Skin is indeed left glowing and crazy smooth.

*I especially love how effective this is on dry, cracked heels and thicker skin on feet, knees and elbows. You wouldn't believe the difference!

Retail Price: $32.00, 8.4 oz. (at dhccare.com - and on sale until 3/31/07 for $24.00)

DeLush Rating:

21:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Posted In DHC, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Pedicure/Foot Care, Totally DeLush

March 9, 2007 5:08 PM

Review: Aubrey Organics Natural AHA Fruit Acids Exfoliating Mask and Toning Moisturizer

What They Say: (about the Exfoliating Mask) "Exfoliating mask uses naturally extracted fruit acids to encourage cell turnover and leave skin renewed and refreshed. (Not recommended for active acne.)


• Formulated with bilberry, black currant and citrus fruit acids.
  
• Clears away cellular debris with ground rose hips seeds, apricot seeds and kernels, plus soothing almond meal and oatmeal.
  
• Moisturizes with white camellia, organic Rosa Mosqueta® and other herbal oils.
  
• Excellent care for lackluster skin and fine lines."

(about the Toning Moisturizer) "Unique toning lotion hydrates and gently exfoliates with herbal emollients and naturally extracted fruit acids. (Not recommended for active acne.)


• Helps clear away dead skin cells and debris and firm and smooth the complexion.
  
• Moisturizes dehydrated, dry and lifeless skin with organic Rosa Mosqueta®, white camellia and apricot oils.
  
• Contains natural fruit acids from bilberry, black currant and citrus fruit acids.
  
• Works best with Natural AHA Fruit Acids with Apricot Exfoliation Mask."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: (For the Exfoliating Mask) This surprised me at first with its thin consistency, and I was kind of skeptical when applying it. However, after rinsing it away I was quite pleased with the results. My skin was incredibly smooth and soft, and I didn't find that this irritated my skin at all, even after several uses. It separates a bit in the bottle, so you definitely need to shake it up before applying and they also recommend storing both of these in the refrigerator after opening.

(For the Toning Moisturizer) According to directions, this was something to typically apply after the exfoliating mask. However, I found that this formula tended to make my skin feel a bit tight, and not incredibly moisturized. It was also VERY thin, almost watery, which I found strange and wasn't too fond of. I just didn't see any sort of a positive effect on my skin to make this worthwhile.

Retail Price: $19.95 each - 4oz (at aubrey-organics.com)

DeLush Ratings:
(For the Exfoliating Mask)
(For the Toning Moisturizer)

17:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Posted In Aubrey Organics, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Facial Moisturizer

February 22, 2007 12:31 PM

Review: Suki Mini Skin Care Set

What They Say: "Everything you need to try 8 of our 100% natural, holistic skin care products or give as a sensual, healthful gift! This mini kit is an antioxidant blend for those with normal to dry, fragile, or combination skin in winter months or going through a dry phase.

Inside:
Comes with exfoliating lemongrass cleanser, moisture-rich cleansing lotion, concentrated facial toner-shitake, facial moisture serum-carrot, complexion brighteining cream, delicate mositure body oil, hand & body velvet creme, & hand & body butter creme."

Jen's Experience: Let me just start by saying that I haven't been as excited about skin care since I tried Sevi cosmetics a few months back. This little mini-care set let's you try out (and fall in love with) several of Suki's products.

The exfoliating lemongrass cleanser smells fantastic in addition to being perhaps the best exfoliating cleanser I've ever used. The grains are large and seemed rough at first, but rubbed in gently do wonders. The grains are mixed in with a soap that effectively removes all the make-up on my face. I've been using this a few days a week. On other days, I use the moisture-rich cleansing lotion, which is much gentler and feels like a soothing lotion on my face. After both cleansers, I used the facial toner to remove the last traces of make-up and cleanser (although I rarely see any make-up on the cotton pad since the cleansers work so well). Sadly, I ran out of the toner quickly since you need to use quite a bit each time.

After cleansing, I have been using the carrot facial serum, which is an oil that smells (unsurprisingly) like carrots. Although the smell is a bit sweet and strong, the product itself is great for replenishing the moisture from my skin. It sinks in quickly but makes my skin look moisturized and radiant right after I use it. I follow the facial serum with the complexion brightening cream, which feels so good on my face. With all of the other products in the set, it's hard to determine if this product truly makes my complexion brighter, but between the cleansing and the moisturizing products, the result is that my skin looks the best it's looked in ages.

I've also been using the body products on occasion, but I wasn't able to get as much use out of them. The packet of hand and body cream was so tiny that in one use I was just able to get my elbows and ankles (which felt great that day as a result). The body oil was gone in just two uses, but it did a fantastic job of making my pale white legs at least look well-moisturized here in the middle of winter. I used the velvet cream mostly on my hands and got a lot more uses out of that. I liked it because it wasn't greasy and moisturized well without leaving my hands slick.

If you want to skip the mini-kit and go right for the products, I thought the lemon-grass exfoliator and the carrot facial serum are real standouts, but I think the entire spectrum of products work so well together that I hesitate to recommend buying just a few.

Overall, this is a great kit to test out the Suki products (most of them lasted about 2 weeks). It would be a fantastic travel kit, particularly for the facial products. I wish, actually, that instead of including the hand and body products that they'd made the facial toner vial a lot larger and included some daytime moisturizer with sun protection and an eye cream. I really can't complain, though. These products are totally top-notch and I am uber-impressed with this company.

Retail Price: $22.50 (SukiNaturals.com)

Rating:

12:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Facial Cleansers, Facial Moisturizer, Hand Cream, Suki Naturals, Totally DeLush

January 29, 2007 9:50 PM

Abrione Chakra Masques

What They Say: "Identify your most needy chakra by letting the colors speak to you. With seven individual colors corresponding to each chakra, the new Abrione Chakra Masques help to open your charkas and stabilize those that may not be perfectly balanced.

Line the masques up and select the color masque that most appeals to you. Apply the Abrione Chakra Masque you select to your face, neck, or body and feel your chakras align – plus your skin will look fabulous, too."

Jamie’s Thoughts: Don’t have a clue what a “chakra” is? Join the club. I’ll give you a brief history lesson: According to an ancient Hindu system of healing, the seven “chakras” (or centers of energy) correspond to the seven main nerve centers that stem from the spinal column. If even one chakra is misaligned, it is believed that the body is then “out of whack,” as the Abrione folks put it.

You can color me skeptical on the belief behind the product, but I know for certain how I feel about the product. I really like it. Not to the point of being able to tell when my chakras have opened and realigned themselves, but having good skin would make ANYONE feel better, am I right? Plus, the packaging is adorable and the set includes a “cell enhancing” moisturizer that is supposed to follow the use of each masque. Not to mention that each of them is downright pretty to look at!

The seven masques are as follows:

Amethyst Crown (Inner Power & Wisdom): Smells divine, looks divine, feels divine, is divine.

Indigo Third Eye (Insight): A clay based formula with antioxident powers – my skin looked healthy and flush after this one.

Blue Throat (Self-Expression): Scented to calm, includes geranium! Who knew? Not one of my favorites, but on the whole, not bad.

Emerald Heart (Love): Includes lavender to relieve stress, along with eucalyptus, cucumber, and parsley. This one really calmed some of my “monthly” pimples down and made them manageable.

Solar Plexus (Positive Self-Esteem): Smells like Spearmint, which I LOVED, and instantly put me in a good mood. Hmm, maybe I’m not such a skeptic after all. On the down side, it left a strange, glittery residue – would be great for those who aren’t afraid of a little shimmer.

Orange Sacral (Sexuality): Smells strange, but reduces pore size. Need I say more?

Red Root (Physical Strength/Vitality): Also smells slightly like finger paint. I felt a marked difference in the moisture it left behind. Awesome for dry skin.

I could go on and on about all the organic and surprising elements in these little, wondrous tubs…ingredients like Sandalwood, Ylang-Ylang, Rosemary, Prickly Pear, and Green Tea. The variety in this set is good and bad – it serves a number of purposes, and can be customized to your skin’s needs, but it could also pose a threat to sensitive skin. Some of these would be too harsh for sensitive skin. Overall, a strong recommendation for anyone who would like to try something new and totally unique for their complexion.

Price: $30 for the “Travel Tube” – sample sizes of all 7 plus moisturizer (www.vbcosmetics.com)


DeLush Rating:

21:50 PM | Permalink | Trackback (0)
Abrione, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels

NatPure Spa Bouquet Tangerine Creamy Sugar Scrub

What They Say: "This exceptional exfoliator combines the rarest of rejuvenating ingredients, such as Olibanum Oil, Ylang Ylang and Neroli Oil to reveal revitalized, radiant skin. It's refreshing scent and creamy texture glide on skin smoothly, while tiny granules of sugar gently scrub and massage away dead skin cells. Skin is left feeling fresh, and much smoother. 100% Paraben Free."

Jen's Experience: This exfoliator from NatPure is designed to be for both face and body, but I have to say I'm really glad that I tried this first on my body instead of my face. The texture is not exactly creamy, it doesn't really glide on, and the sugar granules are anything but tiny. This is a very serious exfoliator. After using it on my chest and arms, I was very pleased with how soft it made my skin feel (although it was quite red). It rinsed off easily and the smell was citrus-y and pleasant and not at all overpowering. It didn't cause any irritation on the areas that I used it, but I would definitely use caution on tender skin, such as the face. I think I may just use this industrial strength exfoliator on my feet from now on to be on the safe side.

Retail Price: $29.99/4.3 oz. (NaturePureSpa.com)

Rating:

18:52 PM | Permalink | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, NatPure

January 26, 2007 4:07 PM

Review: Seasonal Skincare - Winter Trio

What They Say: (about the Winter Cleanser) "Balanced for winter use, our cleanser is infused with Chamomile extracts and algae peptides to create an antioxidant moisture wash that gently removes impurities while soothing and hydrating the skin. Daily use promotes softer, smoother skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and surface dryness.

Key Ingredients and Benefits

Lathering Ingredients: Formulated with non-irritating and non-comedogenic foaming ingredients generally found in baby-skin cleansers. These are especially useful during the winter months as they will prevent dryness, irritation, and flaking. Also prevents redness and acne breakouts. Ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Chamomile Extract: This ultra soothing botanical calms and soothes skin and helps to minimize redness and irritation.

Algae peptides: derived from Hawaiian red sea algae. Ensure deep hydration and deliver nourishing antioxidants to the skin while increasing cell renewal. This is particularly effective during the winter months, when metabolism decreases. Also promote collagen formation to smooth skin creases, resulting in a firmer skin appearance."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: This gel-like cleanser seems to remove makeup very well, and did not leave my skin tight or dry-feeling. In fact, after patting my face dry my skin would still feel supple and hydrated, and very soft. Typically in winter I get dry patches fairly easily, as well as a bit of redness along with them. I did notice a reduction in this occurrence while using the trio as well. The only negative I found was that the scent of this product was a bit medicinal. If this could be improved, it would help to make this an even more skin-pampering product. One other thing to note is that the pump-dispensing container is HUGE. It will last a very long time.

What They Say: (about the Winter Moisturizer) "Our super-hydrating moisturizer helps create an enriched shield between your skin and the harsh winter environment. Beta-carotene derived from winter-harvest carrots strengthens the skin's defense against environmental damage. Super-hydrating lipids help replace moisture lost throughout the winter. Replenishing Algae Peptides ensure deep hydration and help boost cell renewal during the slower-metabolic winter months. A hint of Lavender essential oil promotes a sense of overall well-being.

Key Ingredients and Benefits:

Lipids: Super-rich molecules help replace moisture that is lost from the skin throughout the winter.

Beta carotene: Derived from winter-harvest carrots. Strengthens the skin's defense against environmental damage. Provides free-radical protection in a powerful anti-oxidant formula.

Algae peptides: derived from Hawaiian red sea algae. Ensure deep hydration and deliver nourishing antioxidants to the skin while increasing cell renewal. This is particularly effective during the winter months, when metabolism decreases. Also promote collagen formation to smooth skin creases, resulting in a firmer skin appearance."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I've been finding this moisturizer quite soothing over the past few weeks. I typically apply it at night, using a generous amount and letting it soak into my skin overnight. But I've also on several occasions used a very thin layer under my sunscreen before applying makeup in the morning. What's been a positive thing for me in that respect is that this has not created excess oil on my face during the day, even though it is slighly richer than some moisturizers. Instead, it helps my skin to feel comfortable instead of dry and itchy from all of the drying indoor heat I spend all day in.

What They Say: (about the Winter Oxy-Boost Mask) "This feather-light mask hydrates and awakens the skin's youthful glow by renewing the oxygen consumption within the cells. This is especially important during the harsh winter months and at high altitudes where oxygen is less prevalent in the air. Imparts a healthy radiance and velvety texture to the skin. Also promotes a firmer, more youthful skin appearance and lifts and plumps skin, revealing dramatic visible results.

Key Ingredients and Benefits

Oxygen ATP Activators: These small molecules called ATP molecules deeply penetrate into the skin, boosting the skin's oxygen uptake.

Boosts skin hydration.

Imparts velvety texture and healthy radiance.

Dramatically improves skin tone & elasticity.

Lifts and plumps skin."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: The mask in this trio is also of a gel consistency, and is very light going on. It's also immediately cooling. It is recommended that you leave it on for at least 20 minutes, and they say you can use it up to several times per week. I will say that while I noticed a bit of a tightening feeling after use (sort of that "squeaky" feeling common after using some cleansing products), it wasn't intense and was immediately alleviated by following up with the Winter Moisturizer. I suppose the lifting and plumping, which I've noticed only slightly from a visual perspective, was the cause of this tight feeling. I think the thing which I notice most visibly after using the mask is a reduction in dullness. However, it's the FEEL of my skin that has been most impressive.

For this reason I feel like the moisturizer and cleanser have been most beneficial to me so far, although the mask has its impact as well.

Retail Prices: (all available at seasonalskincare.com)
(Winter Cleanser) (8 fl. oz) $26 (now on sale for $22)
(Winter Moisturizer) (1.7 fl. oz) $45 (now on sale for $36)
(Winter Oxy-Boost Mask) (1.7 fl. oz) $45 (now on sale for $36)

DeLush Ratings:
(Winter Cleanser)
(Winter Moisturizer)
(Winter Oxy-Boost Mask)

16:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Facial Cleansers, Facial Moisturizer, Seasonal Skincare

January 12, 2007 11:33 PM

Review: Bliss Triple Oxygen™ Instant Energizing Mask

What They Say: "A super-quick-fix for dull, tired, sallow, ‘I’m sick of my’ skin. Engineered to mimic the effects of our spa’s famous triple oxygen™ facial (but in seconds), this fabulous new complexion brightening formula uses every ‘tech’ in the book to work to furnish you with a fresher, younger-looking face.

• engineered as a stand-in for our spas' world-famous triple oxygen facial treatment
• releases oxygen molecules and detoxifiers
• a super quick fix for dull, tired, sallow skin

During our spas' most famous facial- the triple oxygen treatment- a skilled esthetician, having massaged, deep-cleaned and purified your pores, will hover gracefully over your head waving a thin plastic hose, directing pure pressurized oxygen through a customized blend of micro-molecular skin rehydrators, vitamins and antioxidants, all in a heroic effort to rapidly revitalize and reenergize your (choose one or more of the following):


• tired
  
• acne-riddled
  
• aging
  
• smoke-ridden
  
• 'all of the above' skin

Why?
Studies show that as we age, the natural oxygen levels circulating in our facial skin decline, and along with them, goes the energy needed to keep our cells functioning like the cells on a ‘fresh’ face. More oxygen (and vitamin C, and hydration) means more energy for all of the biochemical processes required by your body to keep your skin functioning like it’s ‘young’.

With?
The Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask is also formulated with:
a) FluidO2TM, a special ‘liquid ventilation’ system, to carry stable oxygen molecules and release them on your skin’s surface
b) Sodium PCA, a fantastic humectant molecule that keeps your skin hydrated without ever getting greasy
c) BV-OSC, the most multi-active powerful form of vitamin C available

Who?
1. Those who feel that the get up and go in their skin has got up and gone.
2. Anyone who is pushing thirty, or who just can’t pinpoint why they don’t look as lively in family photos these days.
3. Men who suffer from ingrown hairs or ‘beard bumps’
4. Acne sufferers, who should substitute a smattering of this for their everyday ‘cleanser’, to wage a continual mini war on the anaerobic bacteria that leads to the bumps, swollen follicles, and white blood cell build-up that causes breakouts.

How?
Instructions for use: Massage a generous layer of Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask onto damp skin. Wait five minutes, until a full froth forms, then rinse well and follow with toner and/or moisturizer. NOTE: Our Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask is formulated for fast (5 minutes) action and oxygen release, so there’s no need to leave it on longer. Use whenever your skin needs a boost, a maximum of 3x weekly."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: What an amazing (and fun-to-use) mask! When you apply the gel-like formula, it begins to foam almost immediately and you then begin to feel a very mild tingle (more like a tickle) as the oxygenating foam does its magic.

After rinsing it off, you will immediately notice that there is still a comfortable layer of moisture on your skin that doesn't go away after you pat your skin dry. This doesn't make my skin feel tight or itchy at ALL. Not only that, but I can see a distinct difference in my previously tired-looking skin each time I use it. Any redness or dullness seem alleviated, and my undereye circles appear diminished. Also, my skin feels and looks more smooth and awake.

One morning after I'd been sick during Christmas vacation and then passed it on to my husband, we both managed to sleep through our alarms (the three combined between us!) and both woke up abruptly (in a scene that looked like the one from Home Alone) literally one minute before I typically left my house for work. I threw on some clothes, brushed my hair, and quickly dotted on some concealer and mascara, saving the blush and lipstick for the car (I know - but I did it at the stoplight) and left the house three minutes later. My point is, somehow with that little time to do my typical getting-ready routine I must say I looked pretty okay that day. You would have never guessed how quickly I got ready. And I SWEAR that I only managed to look refreshed and radiant that day because the night before, I had used this mask for the very first time. Otherwise, I would typically see myself looking really blotchy and sallow after a morning like that!

If you have the means, give this mask a try. It is truly a miracle-worker in my book.

Retail Price: $52.00 (at blissworld.com , Bliss Spas, or go here to find a retail location near you)

DeLush Rating:

23:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Bliss, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Splurge of the Month, Totally DeLush

January 11, 2007 12:27 PM

Apivita Age Management Face Mask, Multi-Vitamin Caps, and Express Whitening Mask

About the Age Management Face Mask: "Benefits: Moisturizes and heals the skin while offering anti-oxidant protection against the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Active Ingredients: Orange, lemon and nutmeg essential oils, ginkgo biloba, white tea and green tea extracts, osmopour, unicotrozon.

Usage: After exfoliating the skin, apply a rich layer with circular massage strokes for 3 minutes. Leave on for another 3 minutes, then rinse off with water."

Jen's Experience: It's hard to say whether or not a product prevents fine lines and wrinkles, so I will just tell you about my immediate experiences with this peel. I used this in the evenings after washing and exfoliating. You have to rub it in for 2-3 minutes, which is kind of a lot of work. (Plus, three minutes on each area of my face or just three minutes total?) While I am rubbing it in, it kind of burns, which I guess is a good indication that it's working. After leaving it on for 3 minutes, I finally get to remove it. My face is pink and definitely feels tighter, but my face is so dry I can't help but want to slather as much moisturizer on it as humanly possible. By morning, there's no major difference in the appearance of my skin other than some slight irritation here and there. Overall, since it's hard to tell whether this prevents wrinkles and it doesn't seem to do much for the moisture level in my skin, I find this product hard to recommend, particularly for dry or sensitive skin.




About the Multi-Vitamin Face Capsules: "Benefits: Brings out natural glow and revitalizes skin, leaving skin texture smoother. Protects from premature aging.

Active Ingredients: Pure blend of Vitamins C,E,F , borage oil, corn and centella extract.

Usage: Apply every day (or night) to cleansed skin. Follow with multivitamin face cream."

Jen's Experience: This product seemed like a daytime serum, so I was all over testing this one out. I used one capsule over my clean face and under a layer of moisturizer each morning. Breaking open the capsule, you get a small amount of a substance that smells and feels suspiciously like olive oil. I apply it over my face, paying special attention to the drier areas. I honestly see no difference in the appearance of my complexion, but I will say that it gives an extra boost to whatever moisturizer I am using, but I will also say that it really needs to soak in before I apply make-up because this extra-moisturizing combo really makes my foundation slide off. I think this product is a good addition for those with very dry winter skin, but for most other skin types, an extraneous item for your morning routine.

Price: $32.00 (BeautyExclusive.com)




About the Express Whitening Mask: "Benefits: Deeply exfoliates, renewing skin. When used regularly, diminishes the appearance of liver spots, scars and other marks. Whitens the skin, enhancing natural radiance.

Active Ingredients: fruit acids ( Glycyrrhentic acid and salicylic acid), Vitamin C, bisabolol, essential oils


Usage: Apply an even, rich layer to clean, moist skin, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and rinse thoroughly with warm water."

Jen's Experience: With all the whitening products that have hit the market lately, it's hard to find one that really makes any sort of difference to my skin. I've used this mask a few times, and already I'm a fan. Now, I have to qualify that by saying that I haven't actually seen a major difference in any of the discolored areas that I was really hoping to get lightened, but what I do see is a dramatic difference in my complexion. Even the day after using it, my skin looks brighter and clearer, almost like I'm well-rested or something. I did see some problems with it drying out my skin, especially around the jaw-line, so those of you with very dry skin, be sure to proceed with caution, but those with other skin types should definitely check this product out.

Price: $24.00/box of 12 treatments (Apivita)


Age Management Face Mask:
Multi-Vitamin Face Capsules:
Express Whitening Mask:

12:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Apivita, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Facial Moisturizer

December 4, 2006 10:10 AM

Holiday Gift Guide Review: Elemis Radiant Skin Normal to Dry Gift Set


Available at TimeToSpa.com
$100.00
Make all the beautiful people in your life glow that much more with this Radiant Skincare Gift Set.
Contents:

• Rehydrating Ginseng Toner (400ml)
  
• Rehydrating RosePetal Cleanser (400ml)
  
• Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (15ml)
  
• Exotic Cream Moisturising Mask (15ml)
  
• Papaya Enzyme Peel (15ml)
  











Elemis Rosepetal Cleanser
"Elemis Rose Petal Cleanser replenishes moisture, removes the day’s impurities and adds life to your complexion."
For those of you who are a fan of Mario Badescu's Make-Up Remover Cleanser, this is another product you may want to try. This cleanser does a great job of cleaning my face each night, but the creamy texture leaves my skin so hydrated, I could probably skip my regular moisturizer every now and then. The delicate rose fragrance makes this cleanser even more pleasant to use. ($33.00)

Elemis Rehydrating Ginseng Toner
"Extracts of tonifying Korean Ginseng, Quillaja Wood and Sweet Betty Flower revitalise and nourish the skin, whilst thoroughly removing any last traces of cleanser. Perfect for re-hydrating dry and mature skin."
I always like to use a toner to remove the last traces of make-up I may have missed as well as any remaining cleanser. What I really like about this toner is that it, like the cleanser, leaves my skin feeling very hydrated. It doesn't strip my skin and it doesn't even sting. It's hard to be able to say for sure, but I've also noticed that the brighteners and serum that I have in my skincare routine seem to absorb better when I use this toner, giving extra benefit to my skin. Even if you're not interested in trying the whole gift set, this is one product that I would recommend purchasing for yourself! ($33.00)

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
"The ultimate Elemis anti-ageing skincare treatment cream, Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream is Clinically proven to reduce the depth of wrinkles by 19% and increase hydration and moisture levels by 10%."
They're making some pretty big claims there, and I can't completely substantiate them, but I will say that my skin has been remarkably good about retaining moisture since I've added this product to my nighttime routine. Like most moisturizers in the $100+ price range, you only need a little for a very noticable effect. ($124.00)

Elemis Exotic Cream Moisturizing Mask
"This light creamy mask contains a dynamic blend of Mimosa, amino-acid rich Honey, immune-boosting Sea Rocket, Orange and Bergamot. These work together to leave skin super-moisturised and enriched. For optimum penetration of its active ingredients, the mask may be left on overnight."
I haven't yet tried this mask on overnight, but when I wore it in an extended bubble bath, I have to say that I was very pleased by how much it hydrated my skin. The effect was present long after I had rinsed off the mask. Of all the products, I was least pleased with the scent of this one, but overall, a worthwhile product, especially for those who suffer from dry skin in the winter months. ($73.00)

Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel
"Natural fruit enzymes of exfoliating Papaya and calming Pineapple, smooth and clarify the complexion. This rinse-off exfoliating cream contains nourishing Milk Protein, Anti-Oxidant rich Vitamin E and marine algae to moisturise, repair and protect skin. Perfect for complexions which are sensitive or mature."
This is my absolute favorite product in the set, less because of the way it works than because of the absolutely delicious smell. I am in absolute heaven when I'm wearing this peel! I am not sure that it did a lot to hydrate my face, but I will say that it did leave my skin looking more radiant, which was the whole goal of this gift set. For the fragrance alone, a tube of this fantastic peel would make an excellent gift. ($42.00)

Jen's Overall Experience: This skin care set from Elemis would make a wonderful gift for anyone in your life who has dry or mature skin. While the bottles themselves don't look all that impressive, the products inside are some of the best skin care products I've ever used.

Cleanser:
Toner:
Moisturizer:
Moisturizing Mask:
Enzyme Peel:

10:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Elemis, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Facial Cleansers, Facial Moisturizer, Holidays and Gift Guides, Totally DeLush

November 6, 2006 6:26 PM

Review: Skinsational Tea Gel Mask

What They Say: "A must-have for those with sensitive, sunburned, blotchy or uneven skin! The oil-free cooling blue gel mask is packed with ingredients to calm skin and reduce redness and inflammation. Green tea extract provides an antioxidant boost while chamomile, calendula and azulene help skin recover and rebalance. Recommended for sensitive or irritated skin."

Jen's Experience: Sometimes it's hard to tell with peels whether they're really helping or not. This peel made my skin, suddenly irritated -- possibly due to my current cold and resultant whittling down of my skin care routine -- feel soothed as I applied the cool gel to my face. I left it on for about 15 minutes, and after I washed it away, I did notice that my face was noticably less red and felt quite soft. Upon waking, though, same irritated skin, but a little on the dry side. I've used it since then and have continued to notice a temporary improvement in my skin tone immediately after I use it, but my skin is also a little drier as a result. I really like how it feels going on, but I don't think this is the product for those of us who have both sensitive and dry skin.

Retail Price: $36.00 (SensationalSpa.com)

Rating:

18:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Skinsational Spa

November 3, 2006 3:22 PM

Review: NatPure Soy Doctor Retexturizing Soy Polisher

What They Say: “Excess, dead cells build up, causing skin to look less radiant at any age. Complexions can look dull when the light reflecting quality that smooth skin has is diminished by cell layers waiting to be sloughed off. While exfoliation can give skin a boost in several ways, it is super efficient at eliminating dead-cell build up, excess sebum and debris. Regular, but not overly aggressive, exfoliating can uncover a smoother, more radiant complexion. It can also help your other treatment products to penetrate faster and do their job better.

Superb and exclusive facial exfoliating formula containing micro-fine polyethylene particles., which penetrates below the surface by removing cellular debris that clogs pores and leads to breakouts and scarring. Features congestion fighting alpha and beta hydroxy acids complex and patented Soy Doctor Natural Blend.

Recommended for normal, combination and oily skin, NatPure Retexturizing Soy Polisher leaves complexions smooth, soft and polished to perfection.”

Alissa’s Opinion: I love exfoliation. I use a scrub on some part of my body every single day, so I’ve used quite a few on the market. This cleanser is the best I’ve tried for the face. It contains no fragrances or dyes, so the luxurious feeling comes solely from the texture. The beads are extremely fine, so there is none of the scratchiness that some exfoliating cleansers tend to have. After using this scrub every 3 days for a couple of weeks, I noticed that my skin was clearer and softer than usual. This is one bottle I will definitely keep in my shower.

Retail Price: $45.00 (at naturepurespa.com)

DeLush Rating:

15:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, NatPure, Totally DeLush

October 17, 2006 10:36 PM

Review: Fresh Rose Petal Hydrating Face Mask

What They Say: "Rose Face Mask is a rejuvenating mask with hydrating and toning action; rose petals caress and restore the skin. 50% pure rose floral water soothes both skin and senses. Anti-inflammatory cucumber and aloe vera gel cool and refresh. Porphyridium cruentum, the concentrated micro-sea algae first used by Fresh, is proven both to deliver moisture and to be self-adjusting. Suitable for all skin types."

Jen's Experience: I love masks and peels, and a mask that hydrates is clearly a bonus for my dry skin. I expected it to be cool and soothing. Cool, it was, but it was very tingly on my face and neck. Perhaps that was the toning aspect of it. I was a little concerned that it would upset my skin, but instead, I rinsed it off to find my skin a little more hydrated and with much less redness.

The price tag on this mask is a little higher than I would expect, but the good news is that only a very little is needed, so it should last a long time.

Retail Price: $55.00 (Fresh.com)

Rating:

22:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Fresh

August 15, 2006 4:40 AM

Review: Avia Spa O2 Restoring Mask

What They Say: "A deep, pore controlling and normalizing mask formulated with carefully selected botanicals to regulate and balance excess sebum and promote healing of blemishes. Acneic and problem skin types should use 1-2 times a week. Active Ingredients are wasabi (fights bacteria and is deeply cleansing) and vitamin E (anti-aging, moisturizing, antioxidant properties)."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: I really do love this mask. In addition to having an incredibly nice and subtle non-fragrance-like scent, it feels instantly cooling and calming on my skin. Leaving it on for 10-15 minutes is not uncomfortable at all, as this formula feels almost whipped in texture. I noticed after I rinsed it off that some sensitive areas on my face and a couple of "almost pimples" that were trying to peek out had calmed down. My skin was so refreshed. I did feel the need to go ahead and apply moisturizer afterward, but that was okay. I can't say that if you have very difficult problem skin that this will completely eliminate that for you, but I can say that when you use it you just KNOW you are doing something very good for your skin. I swear mine was more supple after use. You also get a sufficient amount of product, enough to last for several months worth of usage or more.

*Updated to add: I wouldn't recommend this for very dry skin, because of the ingredients' pore-tightening and sebum-reducing properties. You just may feel like all the moisture you want to try to keep in your skin gets sucked out! But for oily/problem skin this is better-suited.

Retail Price: $80.00 (aviaspa.com or in the Avia Spa in Santa Barbara, California)

DeLush Rating:

04:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Avia Spa, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Splurge of the Month

August 11, 2006 10:44 AM

Review: Joey New York Pure Pores Cleansing Gel with Vitamin C & Pure Pores Blackhead Remover and Pore Minimizer Gel

What They Say: (about the Cleansing Gel) "This exceptional cleanser contains Salicylic Acid to help rid the skin of acne and blackheads. Gently and thoroughly removes excess impurities and residue from the skin leaving it ultra-clean, fresh and balanced." (about the Blackhead Remover and Minimizer Gel) "A one minute treatment that gently helps to remove blackheads, shrink and tighten large pores and absorb excess oils. Apply this easy to use gel treatment to oily, pore-clogged areas around the nose, chin, forehead and hairline - wait 45 seconds, then gently massage away blackheads and other impurities. Amazingly simple, fast, effective and painless.
Perfect for women, men and teens!"

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: (about the cleanser) This cleanser provides very gentle exfoliation, enough to be used every day, and left my skin feeling fresh, clean and not at all tight and dry. It's a little fragrant for my taste, but it's not that bad. I wasn't completely convinced that it is superior to other gentle cleansers on the market, but it still worked well.(about the gel) Okay yes, I could feel the tingle with this stuff. But it was SO minor, really. Sometimes it doesn't want to massage completely off if you've not figured out the right thickness (too thin usually) to apply it. But then you can always rinse off the excess. I did notice a reduction in blackeads, which I've always been plagued with. They won't ALL disappear in the first few applications (don't do it more than the recommended number of times per week, because all of that rubbing on your nose could lead to inflammation and increased sebum production and could result in a blemish), but you should notice a difference by the second or third use. Continued use and keeping the skin clean should increase your progress at eliminating them. The only negative I noticed was that when I first began, I noticed an increase in oiliness on my nose during the day (this was the area I focused on when using the gel). I believe this was because of all of the "junk" that was being brought to the surface during the process.

The pore-tightening effects aren't extremely dramatic, but on the plus side it doesn't make my skin feel tight and uncomfortable as a result. It makes sense that as blackheads are pulled out of your pores, the pores are able to close a bit (you can't make them ever go away completely) and appear less noticeable.

What I really do like about this is that it doesn't hurt like those strips do, my skin doesn't feel dry and irritated afterward, and for the price I can use this many, many times before having to purchase any more.

Retail Price: the cleanser - $27.00; the gel $25.00 (available at joeynewyork.com or by catalog)

DeLush Ratings: Pure Pores Cleansing Gel with Vitamin C -
Pure Pores Blackhead Remover & Pore Minimizing Gel -

10:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Facial Cleansers, Joey New York

June 7, 2006 5:48 PM

Estee Lauder Perfectionist Peel

This product is not yet out on the market. Stay tuned for more details about when it will become available and the retail price!

What They Say: "You're born with smooth, perfect skin. But as you get older, skin's ability to renew itself begins to slow down dramatically. Gradually, the fine, even texture becomes rough and uneven as skin is less able to shed dull, dead cells and regenerate new ones. The result? Skin looks lifeless. Lines, wrinkles, and age spots look more visible. Your skin needs a jump start.

While scrubs and masks do a good job of smoothing the surface of the skin, Glycolic Peels, now a standard procedure in the dermatologist's office, offer the true revolution in skin re-smoothing. A single treatment can clear away dead surface cells, unstop clogged pores and leave skin looking dramatically more radiant, fresher and smoother.

Now, with just one treatment, you can achieve the same results as a 30% professional Glycolic Acid peel in the privacy and convenience of your own home with this advanced DermSolution from Estee Lauder."

Jen's Experience: Normally, I get a new mask or scrub from the store over the weekend, and I'll settle into a nice bubble bath so that I can enjoy the process. My skin will tingle a little when I put it on and when I remove it, my face feels like it can breathe, but my face doesn't necessarily look all that different.

My experience with this product was totally different.

I spread a thin layer of the Thermal Facial Peel all over my moist face after I washed it. Immediately, it felt very warm on my face. Over the 15 minutes I relaxed with it on my face, it went from warm to a little tingly, to feeling like it was making its way deep into my pores.

Once the 15 minutes were up, I removed the peel using the Calming neutralizer pads. I felt like the neutralizer pads weren't really all that calming, but they did a great job removing the peel and really making my face feel clean.

Immediately afterwards, my face was very rosy. By morning, it was back to its normal shade, but definitely had more of a glow. My skin tone seems to be much more even. I've even contemplated not wearing foundation to work days after using the peel!

I am really a big fan of this product alread in the short time that I've used it. It may not be as inexpensive as some of the peels you'll find in the drugstore, but there are 10-15 applications in the packaging for the Perfectionist Peel, and I think you'll find the results closer to that of a professional facial rather than your every day mud mask.

Rating:

Update: I spoke with an Estee Lauder representative today in my local department store. The peels are now arriving in stores, but, at least in her case, they were sold immediately. You can place an order with them and they will hold one for you as they arrive. The retail price will be $85.

17:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Estee Lauder, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels, Totally DeLush

April 24, 2006 4:20 PM

Review: Anakiri Regenerating Oatmeal Mask

What They Say: "Oats! This time-honored skin care solution has been reinvented by modern science. Anakiri's Regenerating Oatmeal Mask is designed to soothe, regenerate and detoxify tissue as well as to restore proper hydration levels in the tissue. Relax and regenerate with the healing power of Oats!"

Jen's Experience: I love it when products use really natural ingredients, so I was excited to read on the side of this mask that it contained colloidal oatmeal, grapeseed oil, glycerine, aloe vera gel, licorice extract...the list goes on and on. I feel like things found in nature are less likely to irritate my sensitive skin. My theory continues to hold true with this product, a 10 minute mask that leaves my skin feeling ultra clean without irritation. I like the scent -- a little bit of oatmeal, a bit of mint. I expected it to tingle a bit and was actually a little disappointed when it didn't. After 10 minutes, the mask was dry, but not so much that my face was frozen, which is good; I didn't want it to pull all the moisture from my already dry skin. Overall, I am very pleased with this mask. I didn't see any truly remarkable changes in your skin, but I did feel like my skin could breathe better.

Retail Price: $33.00 (Anakiri.com)

Rating:

16:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | Trackback (0)
Posted In Anakiri, Exfoliators, Masks, and Peels

March 27, 2006 5:41 PM

Introducing Skin Milk

Today, we're featuring a line-up of luxurious skin care products at drugstore prices from the brand Skin Milk, available at Walgreens, Wal-Mart, drugstore.com and other food, drug and mass market retailers. Each of these products retails at just $4.99. At these kinds of prices, you can afford to choose more than one!

"Replenish your skin with the moisturizing benefits provided by SkinMilk® Body Cream. This rich cream helps improve skin's texture. Skin Milk® Body Cream also contains real milk p