Saturday, September 24, 2011

Review: Ellen Lange Express Retexturizing Peel Kit!

Ellen Lange Express Retexturizing Peel Kit

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 
An effective, yet gentle, exfoliation process that removes dull surface cells to reveal healthy new skin. This peel kit combines glycolic, microbeads and enzymes to create an extremely effective at home peel.

The peel claims to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone, eliminate dry patches, minimize pore size and control periodic breakouts.

This peel kit contains 10% Glycolic. 5% in the peel accelerator pads and 5% in the peel solution. The pH of the Glycolic Acid is 3.5-3.7.

The Kit Includes:
Peel Prep (2 oz.)
Peel Accelerator Pads (60 pads)
Glycolic Peel Solution (1.5 oz.)
Fan Brush
Measuring Cup

Directions for use: 
Step #1 Peel Prep Scrub: Cleanse face and apply to slightly damp skin. Gently massage in a circular motion over entire face for 30 to 60 seconds. Leave on for an additional minute. Rinse well with water and pat dry.

Step #2 Peel Accelerator Pad: Gently wipe textured pad over entire face to accelerate exfoliation. Allow solution to completely dry.

Step #3 Peel Solution: Pump 1 teaspoon into marked dispensing cup provided. Use brush and follow diagram  (shown on the box) stroking solution over forehead, t-zone, chin and cheeks. Peel will foam gradually. Leave on for 8 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and gently pat dry.

*For extra benefit use Peel Accelerator Pads daily after cleansing at night. 


READ MORE FOR MORE INFO + MY REVIEW! 

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

What's your favorite tinted moisturizer?

Since the beginning of time (or well, since High School) I've always been a huge fan of medium, buildable to full coverage foundations. The more buildable the better. I've researched every brand that offers high coverage foundations (and purchased several) and it wasn't until recently - maybe the past 6 months that I've realized I don't need all that coverage. 

I always loved the look of a completely flawless, airbrushed face. Therefore, I never found interest in exploring each of my favorite brands lighter coverage options. 

My recent love, Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua opened up my mind, that more isn't always better. My preference for a foundation has actually changed from medium-full to light-medium.

I don't have acne, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, etc. All I have is a little redness in my cheeks and some minor blemishes here and there. Through watching one of Lisa Eldridge's videos, it really made me think. Why in the world am I covering up all of my "good" blemish-free skin with a full coverage foundation, because I have a breakout on my chin? That's what concealer is for. I definitely recommend watching the video below. It's extremely helpful!


I've grown to like the look of my redness peeking through my foundation a little bit and even some of my freckles - which I've always stressed concealing prior. 

Furthermore, I get asked pretty frequently what my favorite tinted moisturizer is, and the truth is, I've never tried one! So, I'd have to give recommendations based on reviews - rather than from my personal experience. Often times I recommend Laura Mericer or Bobbi Brown as they are really popular choices.

So, I made a special trip to Sephora to pick up a sample for myself of the oil-free tinted moisturizer. The Sales Associate was incredibly kind and recommended trying it with the oil-free primer, so I have a little sample of that as well. And she added in some really awesome extras - I'm very curious to try the Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Mascara. I've tried the waterproof version, and I really liked it! But it did transfer under my eyes after a couple of hours, which was a total bummer.


Anyway, can't wait to try the tinted moisturizer and I'll post my thoughts as soon as my sample is done! In the meantime, I'd love to hear all of your recommendations on your favorite tinted moisturizers so I can pick up a few more samples.

Talk to you all soon!

Monday, September 19, 2011

NOTD: Essence Colour and Go in Date with the Night + Studio M Covered in Diamonds!

Two (2) Coats of Essence Colour & Go in Date with the Night & One (1) Coat of Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat
Date with the Night is a metallic pewter with extremely fine shimmers that are only visible under bright lights. It totally looks like a metallic silver-chocolate in the bottle, but I don't notice any brown tones when painted on the nails.

The Colour and Go polishes are usually a hit or miss with the formula. Some are just right, but many are on the thicker side. This polish is a bit thick, but the plus side is they are pretty opaque with one coat, so if you're running late and have nothing on your nails, you can really "colour and go". I have already used this polish twice, and I'm sure the next time I use it, I'll have to put a couple drops of nail polish thinner in the bottle. Brush strokes are noticeable with this formula, so if you have a shaky hand, it will definitely show on your nails.

Pretty color, not the best formula, but not bad for 99 cents. I get almost a weeks wear from these polishes, which for sure beat any other dollar nail polish at the drugstore. Yes, Wet n Wild and Sinful Colors, I'm talking about you.

I also picked up this funky, confetti/flake nail polish from Meijer called Covered in Diamonds. I haven't heard of Studio M polishes prior, and at $2.99 a pop, I thought I'd at least try one.

Covered in Diamonds has a clear base, and is filled with pastel confetti flakes that reflect blue, green, pink and orange. It's definitely a fun polish to have. The flakes are a little on the thick side though - so they all may not lie completely flat. For the best results, 1-2 coats of a top coat is necessary.


READ MORE FOR ADDITIONAL PHOTOS!

Giveaway Winner: Sweet As Honey Blog

Hey Everyone!

I'm really sorry I didn't get a chance to announce the winner yet, I've been a little under the weather lately.

I'd like to thank all of those who entered and newly subscribed to my blog, as well as those who have been subscribed to my blog for some time. I really appreciate all of your love, support and wonderful comments!

I would like to mention that I received SO many entries after the deadline. Sadly, I couldn't count those entries because it wouldn't be fair to everyone else. It makes me so sad to disqualify entries, so maybe the next giveaway, I'll put more emphasis on the deadline (bigger, bolder letters?)

I'm already planning another giveaway soon, so stay tuned for that!

Without further ado, the winner is.. Sweet as Honey Blog! Congrats, and I'll be e-mailing you shortly!

I picked the winner by random using random.org list randomizer and random number generator.