Today, I’m reviewing the Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Toner. I was sent the Limited Edition holiday bottle.
Our cult-classic Calendula toner is formulated with hand-picked Calendula flower petals to visibly reduce redness, oiliness and minimize the appearance of pores. Our gentle, alcohol-free toner, gently cleanses and soothes skin for a balanced and refreshed-feeling skin!
Helps visibly reduce redness, excess oil and appearance of pores
Gently soothes, calms and refreshes skin
Cleanses skin without harsh or synthetic drying agents
For normal-to-oily skin types, including sensitive skin
The limited edition bottle is no longer available since it was a holiday collection. The original bottle retails for 500mL ($98 CAD), 250mL ($57 CAD), 125mL ($35 CAD), 75mL ($26)
It comes in a plastic bottle. Sometimes I find the bottle cap a bit hard to open. I think the calendula petals floating around are unnecessary. It’s cool to have on display, but when I pour the toner out onto a reusable cotton pad, the petals stick to the pads and I have to pick them off.
Looking at the website, the 500mL bottle comes with a cap too. It’d be nice if it came with a pump because lifting a 500mL bottle each time would be a bit heavy. I have a 250mL bottle which is fine, but the cleanser I used was 500mL which was quite heavy when full. Plus, turning the bottle sideways or upside down might waste some product if it spills out.
I’ve been using this toner for four months now (I use it every night). It’s a nice toner that doesn’t make my skin feel dry and tight. It doesn’t feel tacky. The toner smells like iced tea (the pure leaf or gold peak iced tea). I’ve previously used the Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash which I liked. From what I remember, the cleanser smelled like tootsie rolls. The toner itself is brown, so it did slightly stain my reusable cotton pads.
I usually have redness around my nose and chin, so I was hoping that the claims of reducing redness were true. I have noticed the redness has gone down, but I don’t know if it’s only from the toner or if other products I’ve been using have helped as well.
Even though it says this toner is for all skin types, I think it’s more geared toward normal and oily skin types since it claims to reduce oiliness and shine.
RATING: 3/5
I had to dock some points for the floating calendula petals and the fact that I have trouble opening the lid sometimes. I don’t think I would purchase this once I finish this bottle.
Have you tried the Calendula products from Kiehl’s? What are your faves?
Love,
*I received this product complimentary from Kiehl’s with no obligation to review. Description and ingredients taken from Kiehl’s Canada website.
Today, I’m reviewing three products I received from La Roche-Posay. I’ve always seen this brand at the drugstore, but I never got around to trying it. Find out what I have to say about these three products!
CICAPLAST BAUME B5
Thanks to its quick-absorbing texture and invisible, non-oily and non-sticky finish, all activities can be immediately resumed after application.
Soothing Repairing Balm: Optimal skin recovery for sensitive skin after dry skin irritations and superficial cutaneous heating sensations.
I like that the product comes in a tube. Usually for products that have a thicker formula, they come in tubs/pots with a spatula. I find this balm a bit too thick for my liking, but I have noticed that my skin doesn’t look dry at all. Sometimes I’ve applied it and then looked in the mirror a few hours later and realized I missed a spot blending (because it’s so thick). When you apply it, it looks like it has a white cast, but as you work it into the skin, it goes away. I’m not a huge fan of the scent of the two cream products. I find that my face still feels tacky hours after application. It doesn’t feel greasy though. They both have this school glue smell to them and also a similar thick, sticky texture. Luckily, you can’t smell it once you apply it (or maybe it’s because I apply an oil that has a light, fruity scent). I guess it’s better than an overly scented product. I’ve been using the tube for about a month and a half now and I think I’m getting close to finishing it. I use about a pea-sized amount (sometimes a bit more) in AM and PM (rounding up, I’ve used it about 100 times).
RATING: 3/5 → 4/5
I’ll give this a medium rating since my skin has been pretty clear lately, but I probably wouldn’t purchase this on my own in the future.
UPDATE: After writing this review,my skin had a breakout and I think this balm helped it heal faster. So I’ve bumped this rating up because I like it more. I don’t think I would use it as an everyday moisturizer since it’s so thick, but I think I would use it when my skin needs it. It would probably be good for the winter time. I WOULD repurchase.
HYALU B5 ANTI-AGING SERUM
The dermatological correction for wrinkles and fine lines, loss of volume and elasticity. This intensely hydrating face and neck serum is clinically proven to replump skin, accelerate skin repair and significantly reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The unique pro-skin recovery formula helps repair by replenishing the skin’s moisture barrier and activate skin renewal. It combines concentrated pure hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and madecassoside for optimal effectiveness while also being suitable for sensitive skin.
The smooth, fresh, and rich water-gel texture leaves skin feeling plump and hydrated to the touch.
The serum comes in a glass bottle with a dropper. For some reason, the top feels kind of cheap to me. It also might be hard for people to open since it’s all smooth. It would probably be better to have some ridges to grip it.
RATING: 2/5
I will say that I couldn’t give this a proper test because the product is so scented, that it gave me a headache. When smelling it from the bottle, it is a nice, refreshing scent, but it’s too overpowering once it’s on the face. I tried applying it on my face, away from my nose, but the texture of it was too tacky. I know it might sound like a waste, but I tried it out on my feet so I could test how it makes the skin feel. My feet do feel quite smooth so I won’t give this one a super low rating, but I wouldn’t repurchase this one.
LIPIKAR BAUME AP+M ECO TUBE
Lipikar Balm AP+M is a moisturizing body balm clinically proven to immediately soothe dry to eczema-prone skin for less itching. The new AP+M triple-action formula has a reinforced anti-scratching, anti-relapse efficacy and helps rebalance the skin microbiome. This balm replenishes skin’s essential lipids to strengthen its moisture barrier and provides long-lasting 48-hour hydration. It can be used on the face, hands and body and is suitable for adults, children and babies as young as 2 weeks.
Our NEW ECO-CONSCIOUS TUBE uses 45% less plastic than the previous AP+ 200ml plastic tube.
Non-greasy, non-sticky finish. Skin is soft and comforted from sensitivities.
I love that they’re being eco-conscious by using less plastic, but I used this tube up so quickly since I used it on my whole body after showering. I finished the 200mL tube in a month (used one daily). Once it started getting low, it was hard to squeeze out. I cut the tube open and I was able to use it for a few more days. Similar to the balm, this also smelled like school glue and I could smell it more. It also had a thick texture that kept my skin moisturized.
RATING: 3/5
At $26 for the tube, I can’t justify purchasing it again when other products are the about the same in terms of moisturizing. During the winter, Aveeno daily moisturizing lotion and Cerave moisturizing cream have both worked well for me.
Have you tried La Roche-Posay products? What are your faves?
Love,
*Products were sent to me with no obligations to post. Slideshow pictures taken from Google search. Descriptions and ingredients lists taken from La Roche-Posay Canada website.
Today, I’m reviewing the L’Oréal 8-second Wonder Water Lamellar Rinse-out. This was sent in a box from L’Oréal for TIFF.
A new generation of hair treatment. Our liquid formula disperses instantly on wet hair. It works in 8 seconds and visibly transforms hair from the first use. With moisturizing agents and amino acids, our formula targets damaged areas of hair, forming thin layers called lamellas that smooth the hair’s surface with no weigh down.
How to Use: Apply directly to wet hair. 2. Massage for 8 seconds. 3. Rinse out, avoiding contact with eyes. Frequency of use: Use 2–3 times a week on wet hair after shampoo. 1 dose for fine to medium hair. 2–3 doses for thick to curly hair. Add 1 more dose if you have long hair.
This smells nice and even smells good the day after I use it. At first, I thought the smell would be too sweet and give me a headache, but it’s not. I usually prefer fruity scents. I’m not exactly sure what scent this is (I’m bad at identifying scents, sorry!!) Like the instructions say, when you squeeze it out onto your hand, it feels warm.
RATING: 3/5
It was cool to try out, but I wouldn’t purchase this on my own. I’d rather spend the money on a conditioner. It does detangle my hair well, but at $10 a bottle (for a 200 mL per bottle), I don’t think it’s worth it. Each time, you’re supposed to use 20 mL which means you only get 10 doses out of it (fewer if you have thick hair). I would say I have pretty thick hair and it’s also pretty long at the moment, I’ve only used the recommended 20 mL.
If you’re wondering about the other products that I was sent in the TIFF box, the Gourmaïs popcorn was good. I was sent the Intense Caramel & Salt Flower flavour. It had the perfect balance of salty and sweet.
I did not like the Gruvi Alcohol-free Dry Secco. I’m not much of a drinker, so please take that into account. It did taste like wine though if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option and don’t want to get ginger ale or sparking grape juice. It had a bit of an aftertaste that I didn’t like.
As for the other products, I think most people have tried Lindt Lindor chocolates, I’ve already reviewed the Lash Paradise mascara (read my comparison review) and I had to stop using the Revitalift Triple Power LZR 0.3% Pure Retinol Night Serum. I know it can be common for peeling to occur for retinols and you’re supposed to wait it out, but my cheeks were so peely, I had to stop.
Love,
*This product was sent to me to try. Links are NOT affiliated links. Description and ingredients in italics were taken from the L’Oréal Paris website.
With 1.9% Pure Hyaluronic Acid, our highest concentration of hyaluronic acid in a treatment. Visibly replumps skin after 1 use, and reduces the look of wrinkles in 7 days. Suitable for sensitive skin.
Our 1st anti-aging cream enriched with the legendary Centella Asiatica to hydrate and resist signs of aging. Recognized by the Canadian Dermatologie Association
Our lightweight, protective formula, with CENTELLA ASIATICA and PRO-RETINOL, strengthens and replenishes skin’s moisture barrier to hydrate, fight the look of wrinkles and resist the signs of aging
I was able to get 3 uses out of each ampoule (2 mornings and 1 night). Depending on how much you use, you could probably stretch it out to 2 days and 2 nights. I really liked it. My face looked nice and hydrated. It didn’t pill on me which was nice. I would definitely consider repurchasing these if it came in a bottle, but they’re quite expensive if you buy it in ampoule form (it’s almost $5 for each ampoule). Also, I don’t love how you use the tip as a plug because it was previously exposed to dust before flipping around.
Even though I enjoyed trying these ampoules, I wouldn’t repurchase because of the price. Lately, I’ve received a few L’Oréal skincare products. With so many skincare brands out there, L’Oréal isn’t really one of the top brands that I would consider. To my surprise, I have liked a few of the products I’ve tried so far (from the Revitalift collection). I’m not a huge fan of strongly scented products and some of the products I tried are a bit too much for me. I did enjoy these ampoules and the Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Day Moisturizer Fragrance-Free. The Revitalift Hydrating Smoothing Serum and the Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Night Moisturizer were way too fragranced for my liking.
Elevate your morning routine. This first-of-its-kind clinical-grade 15% vitamin C serum is boosted with clean, plant-derived caffeine from superleafs yerba mate and guayusa to immediately brighten, visibly reduce morning puffiness, and hydrate.
15% Vitamin C Complex: Visibly brightens to reduce the look of hyperpigmentation give skin a firmer appearance
Yerba Mate and Guayusa (Clean Caffeine): Naturally high in caffeine and antioxidants to visibly depuff and contour
Passion and Dragon Fruit: High in antioxidants to help scavenge for free radicals and replenish moisture
How to Use: In the morning, apply 2-4 pumps to cleansed face and neck. Follow with Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream or Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream. With daily use, this super dose of antioxidants helps reduce the look of hyperpigmentation, even skin tone, and visibly firm.
I like that it comes in a glass container with a pump. The spout has a bit of a lip on it where the serum tends to collect and dry down. So I often have to use my finger to wipe it clean which I find a little annoying. Also, I don’t know if I have a faulty pump, but instead of pumping out smoothly (I can hear it make a sound) onto my hand, sometimes the product spurts out.
I’ve been using it for a while now and I haven’t noticed anything different in my skin. To me, it just feels like a serum which is quite expensive for $90. I haven’t noticed any pilling with the products I use, but this serum can make your face a bit tacky. Most vitamin C products I’ve tried have a citrus scent, so I was surprised when I smelled this serum. It smells like ginger, but it’s a light, pleasant smell that isn’t overpowering. Considering the price, I wouldn’t purchase this when I’m finished this bottle.
What’s your favourite Youth to the People product?
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo formulated to realign the hair scalp to eliminate 100% of visible dandruff*. You can now break up with flakes, itch, and irritation associated with dandruff and dry scalp. Up to 6 week anti-relapse promise. Recommended by dermatologists.
The Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoo exfoliates and treats visible dandruff on the scalp from the very first application. More importantly, this professional product is the best dandruff shampoo to prevent its return. Results are continuous for up to six weeks post-use. Efficacy tested under dermatological control.
In the past, I used to wash my hair every day, but now I try to do every other day. Sometimes I’ll stretch it to 2 days, but that’s my limit because my hair will get greasy and I tend to get headaches easily. I can easily wash hair every other day and I don’t have any dandruff, but if i stretch it to longer, the oil can build up to cause dandruff. TMI, I’m also prone to acne on my scalp (usually the back of my head), so I was hoping that this shampoo would help since it has salicylic acid and it did!
I followed the directions and tried using it twice a week (the website advises using it 1-3 times a week). So I went for twice to see. On the second time I used it, I noticed the next day that my hair was oilier than usual. I think my scalp was over compensating for the active ingredients in the shampoo. I decided to decrease to using the treatment once a week which worked best.
RATING: 3/5
Whenever I used the shampoo, I noticed that my hair looked quite shiny (healthy shine, not oily shine) the next day, but I just don’t love the scent. It smells a bit like chemicals to me, so I would use the Vichy shampoo on my scalp and then follow up with a nice-smelling shampoo/conditioner on the ends. I wouldn’t purchase this one on my own and I I’d rather try a different shampoo that’s not as expensive. I know Head & Shoulders shampoos have come a long way since I last tried it (probably like 10 years ago). Now they have scented shampoos instead of just the regular Original Head & Shoulders scent.
Have you tried Vichy Dercos shampoos? What are your faves?
Today, I’m reviewing two products from Klorane. This is my first time trying Klorane products. I know their dry shampoo is popular, but that’s pretty much all I know about the brand. After taking a look on their website, it looks like they have collections based on specific ingredients. For example, I’m reviewing products from the Organic Cornflower selection. To name a few, they also have calendula, chamomile, mango and oat products.
Scientifically proven effectiveness of our plant-based ingredients. A quality approach resulting from our pharmaceutical background, which applies to all our plants.
I received the water cream and eye patches from Topbox to try. According to their website, the Water Cream is best suited for dehydrated or tired skin. For rejuvenating skin in the morning. The eye patches help eliminate signs of fatigue (wrinkles, bags and fine lines).
Cornflower water cream with ORGANIC Cornflower and 100% plant-based Hyaluronic Acid
The Water Cream with Organic Cornflower and 100% plant-based Hyaluronic Acid moisturizes and plumps dehydrated or tired skin, leaving it refreshed and glowing. +83% immediate hydration* thanks to the gel-like texture of the 98% natural formula.
It retails for $37 CAD (50mL) at Shoppers Drug Mart.
I was sent the tube, but it’s also available in a jar for the larger size.
The water cream has a gel cream texture that I like. It doesn’t feel too heavy on the skin and hasn’t pilled with any of my products. It smells like cornflower which is pleasant and it doesn’t linger all day once you’ve applied it. If you’re unfamiliar with cornflower, it kind of reminds me of the blue Mr. Sketch scented markers (even though that is a blueberry-scented marker). It’s possible I’m remembering wrong, but that’s what comes to mind when I smell the cream.
I know it’s more cost effective to buy the jar, but I like that the tube is more hygienic. I don’t have to dip my finger or a spatula into a jar every morning.
RATING: 3/5
It’s a nice water cream and it’s perfect for the warmer months for my dry skin. I probably wouldn’t be able to use this on its own in the colder months. Even now, I use it with a drop of facial oil.
Smoothing and soothing eye patches with Organic Cornflower
Smoothing and relaxing eye patches with Organic Cornflower and 100% plant-based Hyaluronic Acid is a refreshing anti-fatigue treatment for eye contour area after a long day or a short night. With 99% of natural ingredients and 100% biodegradable, the new patches with hydrogel technology hydrates, smooth away fine lines, promotes decongestion and reduces signs of fatigue (dark circles, puffiness, etc). Patches with a refreshing effect for a revived look!
A box of 7 pairs retails for $35 CAD at Shoppers Drug Mart.
The patches are a pretty blue shade (not that it matters what colour they are). They look like whales to me lol. This is a minor thing that doesn’t really affect the efficacy of the patches, but it looks like they were all made in moulds that face the same way. So one of the patches won’t lie against your skin in the same way as the other (one side is flat and the other side is more rounded). You can see what I’m talking about in the second picture of patches.
I personally don’t like under eye patches. I prefer to just use an eye cream or gel. Similar to sheet masks, they can be nice to use from time to time, but I find it a hassle to do it every single day. Having to put on a mask/patches, wait 15-20 mins and then take it off. I’d rather just apply my skincare and be done with it.
RATING: 1/5
There wasn’t enough serum in the patches to be hydrating enough after taking them off. They felt nice and cool while they were on, but there wasn’t much to tap into my under eye area after.
Overall, both products were okay, but I don’t see myself purchasing either of them on my own and I’m not curious enough to try other products from the Cornflower selection.
Have you tried Klorane products? What are your faves?
Love,
*Products were received complimentary from Topbox.
Revitalize and energize tired, puffy eyes with this soothing eye gel from Good Molecules. Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel is rich in yerba mate extract, a natural source of antioxidants and polyphenols that fight oxidative damage for brighter, more radiant skin.
This eye gel retails for $6 USD on the Good Molecules website, $8 CAD on the Beautylish website.
Brightens, depuffs and hydrates
Can be applied AM or PM
For all skin types
Targets under eye puffiness and tired eyes
Ingredients
%
Water
74.15%
Propanediol
9.94%
Butylene Glycol
4.5%
Glycerin
4%
1,2-hexanediol
2.03%
Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
2%
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
2%
Corn Starch Modified
0.6%
Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Extract
0.4%
Cetearyl Olivate
0.3%
Sorbitan Olivate
0.2%
Panthenol
0.1%
Allantoin
0.1%
Tocopherol
0.07%
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
0.03%
Hyaluronic Acid
0.02% (200 ppm)
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.02% (200 ppm)
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
0.02% (200 ppm)
Caffeine
0.01% (100 ppm)
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5
0.01% (100 ppm)
Cichorium Intybus (Chicory) Root Extract
0.004% (40 ppm)
I’ve been using this for about two months now. I like that it comes in a tube. I’m not a fan of using a pot for eye creams, even though a lot of eye creams come like that. I think it’s cool that Good Molecules has started showing the percentages of the ingredients in their products.
I like that this eye gel doesn’t have a scent. It does have a faint smell from the ingredients, but there’s no added fragrance. I can only smell it if I sniff the tube, I can’t smell it when I’ve applied it. I like that it’s a gel so it’s not too heavy. My under eye area is still tacky even after a few hours which is probably a good thing because it means it’s keeping my under eyes hydrated. You only need a small amount, so I think this tube will last a while. I’ve been using it for two months now and I haven’t even reached half way yet. A lot of eye creams I’ve tried have given me milia. I find that eye gels have been the best for me since they’re not as heavy.
Even though it says it can be used AM/PM, I only use it in the mornings.
I don’t have any fine lines, so I can’t comment on that claim. One time after crying for a bit, my eyes got a bit puffy. I’m only mentioning it because it wasn’t like it was the usual puffiness someone would get from eating something the day before. My eyes were pretty puffy and a bit swollen looking when I went to bed. So I wanted to see how well the eye gel worked. When I woke up in the morning, the puffiness had gone down quite a bit (it was probably a mixture of a good night’s sleep and the eye gel). For my morning routine, I applied some more of the eye gel and by mid-afternoon, my eyes were almost back to normal. I haven’t noticed my under eyes being any brighter than usual. This has caffeine in it, but not so much that it makes my eyes twitch. I had this one eye cream that would make my under eye twitch every time I tried it, so obviously I had to stop using it.
RATING: 3/5
I enjoy it and would reconsider purchasing myself. I would say it’s in the top five eye creams/gels I’ve tried. I docked a point because I didn’t notice any changes in brightening my under eyes.
UPDATE: This eventually started making my eyes twitch occasionally. After I stopped using it, my eyes wouldn’t twitch. I’ve bumped it down another point from my initial rating.
Have you tried this eye gel? What are your thoughts on it?
Love,
*This product was sent to me complimentary from Good Molecules, but all opinions are my own.
Today I’m reviewing some products I received from NatureLab Tokyo. Here’s a little bit about the brand from their website:
Through our own research and discovery, all NatureLab products use active Botanical Stem Cells to maintain scalp health, improve follicle strength and promote hair growth at a cellular level.
Free of harsh Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, Gluten, Mineral Oil and other harsh chemicals that not only damage hair, but the environment. Cruelty Free and Never Animal Tested.
Their shampoo and conditioner bottles are really cool. They sort of look like round-bottom flasks that you see in science labs. They also sell refillable pouches so you can reuse the bottles. The bottles are made of a harder plastic (not squeezable).
They have four different collections that target different hair types.
I chose to try products from the SHINE collection – Antioxidant-rich Stem Cells from Grape regenerate scalp papilla cells and revitalize shine. Hyaluronic acid seals in moisture while Pearl Extract stimulates enzymes for an iridescent finish. Shine on.
When I first received the products, I obviously smelled them right away. The scent was a bit strong (sweet and floral) from the bottle, but once you rinse it out, it’s a lighter scent. In the past, I’ve used shampoos that gave me headaches because they’re too strong.
The shampoo and conditioner made my hair look so shiny and sleek. The violet scent is pleasant, but I prefer fruity scents over florals.
I don’t really like using hair oils because my scalp is already oily. It’s definitely easy to go overboard. The first time I tried it, I sprayed too much and it looked greasy instead of a healthy shine. The scent of the oil is stronger since you don’t rinse it out like the shampoo and conditioner.
Get back to your roots with this deep conditioning treatment masque that restores dull hair from scalp to strand. Smart Keratin technology fortifies the hair cuticle and penetrates the cortex to rebuild body and revitalize shine. Potent plant Stem Cells from Bamboo strengthen the hair shaft and promote healthy hair growth while antioxidant-rich Argan and Prickly Pear oils add a protective luster. Damaged hair is visibly improved and new hair sprouts stronger.
In addition to the shampoo, conditioner and hair oil mist, they also sent samples of the Repair Treatment Masque. I really like the smell of the Repair collection. It’s green tea and cyprus. It smells similar to the Dove Cool Moisture Shampoo (which is green tea and cucumber). I really liked the masque and it also made my hair look shiny and healthy. I don’t do much with my hair, so it’s not damaged. I’d be interested to see if it works well for someone with damaged hair.
I have dry under eyes, so it’s hard to tell if this helps prime the skin. When I apply concealer, my under eyes look dry still.
On a good skin day, my under eyes does feel smooth after I use this eye gel. I don’t have fine lines or wrinkles so I can’t say if it helps with those. It has a silicone-y texture that’s similar to the original Smashbox primer.
I find that eye creams in pots are easy for me to overuse. I used way too much when I first started using it. I purchased it earlier this year and I’m almost finished. I was using it twice daily (day and night) until I got the Retinol Eye Cream from Pixi Beauty.
RATING: 3.5/5
I’ve tried a handful of different eye creams and some have caused reactions under my eyes (milia and even red spots). This is one of the few eye products that hasn’t caused any reactions to my under eye area.
While it is a nice eye gel, it’s not my favourite Volition Beauty product. As someone with dry skin, I think I can only use it during the warmer months. Even now, my under eyes are dry. I need something that moisturizes and hydrates in the colder months.
UPDATE: They sell this in a bottle with a pump now which I prefer. I may consider trying this during the summer and using it in the morning only.
Have you tried Volition Beauty products? What are your favourites?
Today I’m reviewing the Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel that I purchased during a Sephora sale. After a year, I finally finished the 500mL Kiehls cleanser. So, now I’m back to using this one. I did try it out for a week or so just to see what it was like and I got a breakout (which was unrelated to the cleanser).
Soap-free, foaming gel cleanses all skin conditions. Refreshing lather thoroughly removes impurities, without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance. This iconic cleanser, which contains naturally-foaming Quillaja Saponaria, gently rinses away toxins and debris to leave skin feeling smooth and clean. Lightweight and mild enough to use every day, it also features calming Balm Mint and Lavender extracts to soothe the skin.
It is gluten free, cruelty free, vegan and has no artificial colours or fragrances. I can smell a hint of the mint and sometimes lemon.
I purchased the 16.9 oz/500 mL bottle which is normally $87 CAD, but with the Sephora sale, it was $74. I wish the pump could dispense the perfect amount of cleanser like the Kiehls one. The Dermalogica cleanser pumps out a lot and I only need half a pump.
RATING: 3/5
The cleanser is okay. It’s gentle and my skin doesn’t feel stripped of its oils after using it. I haven’t had any breakouts from using it, but I don’t find it particularly special. Also, I don’t think it’s worth the high price tag. I would rather repurchase the Kiehls Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash (even though it isn’t meant for my skin type).
Today, I’m reviewing the Superberry Hydrate & Glow Face Oil from Youth to the People. I purchased this during the Sephora sale last year. I tried it in September and then I had a breakout (unsure if it was from the oil, my diet or something else I was using). I stopped using it and then I started using all of these other products that I wanted to review. I’ve started using it again. Keep reading to find out what I think about the oil!
This ultra-enriched, flash-absorbing face oil packed with rare super berry antioxidants that leaves skin velvety soft, hydrated, and glowing. Intensely hydrating prickly pear and squalane oil lock in moisture with the help of omega fatty acids and high levels of vitamin C.
Maqui, the most antioxidant dense fruit in the world, is combined with açaí and goji, creating a potent antioxidant elixir. Our perfected balance of jojoba and sunflower oil illuminate and revive dehydrated skin without weighing it down.
It comes in a glass jar with a dropper (which I will be keeping after I’ve finished using it). It’s vegan, no there’s no animal testing. It doesn’t contain dimethicone, but it does have natural fragrance. It has a scent that is familiar to me, but I can’t quite place it. I think it smells like a candy I used to eat?
RATING: 2/5
My skin doesn’t look very glowy with this oil. I just don’t think it’s worth the high price tag. My face has been very dry from the weather and it’s not providing enough hydration for me. Maybe in the spring/summer, it would be okay for my dry skin. There are other oils that I prefer that don’t have any fragrance and are much more affordable (e.g. The Ordinary, Good Molecules).
I stopped using it again and my skin is looking better. I haven’t changed any other skincare products in my routine so I know it’s this oil that’s causing the breakouts. I know it’s a waste, but I started using it on my hands and feet to finish the rest of the bottle.
I haven’t tried much from the brand, but I did like the Superfood Air Whip Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer.
Today, I’ll be reviewing another product I received from Calissa. An Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing Gel by Dr. Dennis Gross. It’s my first time trying the brand.
This vegan formula contains Alpha Beta® acids which lift away dead skin cells and debris while toning and smoothing skin. Willow bark, Farnesol, and Barosma Betullina help remove impurities, wash away bacteria, and decongest pores, while Snow Ear Mushroom hydrates to maintain skin’s moisture balance. Dr. Gross hand selects each ingredient and combines it with the most efficient delivery system to ensure skin receives maximum skincare benefits from the rest of your regimen.
I enjoy gel cleansers, so I was interested in trying this especially since it’s soap-free, sulfate free, vegan, cruelty-free.
RATING: 3/5
It has a subtle scent that smells like aloe and a bit fruity/floral. It’s quite a thick cleanser. I have the tube and I always squeeze out too much. It’s a nice cleanser, but I will be honest and say I wouldn’t buy the full size. It’s quite expensive for a cleanser ($50 CAD for 225ml) especially when I squeeze out too much. I’d rather pay more for moisturizers, serums or eye creams.
If you would like to make a purchase on Calissa.com, use code 10FRIENDSOFCALISSA to get 10% off! (This is not an affiliate code, just a code for you to get a discount!)
An invigorating blend of citrusy lemon and spicy black pepper which give this luxurious lip balm its signature zing. Lemon oil is often used to rejuvenate dull skin and the aroma is said to reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity. Black pepper has a warming effect and is a natural antibacterial.
Calissa sells 3 other lip balm flavours: Bergamot & Grapefruit, Sandalwood & Ginger and Cinnamon & Burnt Orange. I think the Bergamot & Grapefruit One would be my fave.
The tube has a simple design. The lip balm comes in a nice, sturdy rectangular box that you can re-use. It’d be perfect to store your jewellery when you travel.
A lot of lip balms are quite colourful, so I think men might enjoy using this one since darker colours in packaging are considered masculine. The lip balm itself has a thicker formula. I have to squeeze it harder than my Jouer or Laneige lip balm. I think this is good because if you have this in your purse, it’s less likely to ooze out if it’s squeezed. The lemon and black pepper has a fresh, yet a little spicy scent. I don’t know if it’s black pepper or if it’s the peppermint that gives it a bit of a kick. The balm gives a sheen to the lips, but not too glossy. When you apply it, you can feel a little tingle, but it goes away after a while.
RATING: 3.5/5
I find lemon-scented products can easily smell like a kitchen cleaner. So, I don’t love this one, but I think I’d enjoy the bergamot & grapefruit one. This is on the pricier side of lip balms, but it’s free of mineral oil, beeswax and fragrances.
If you would like to make a purchase on Calissa.com, use code 10FRIENDSOFCALISSA to get 10% off! (This is not an affiliate code, just a code for you to get a discount!)
Today, I’m reviewing Spacemasks! My friend bought me one as a gift and Spacemask kindly sent me one as well. The one with the red packaging is in aid of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity box.
The heating process works by a thin layer of iron filings entwining with the oxygen molecules in the air. It is totally safe. The ever so relaxing jasmine is in a low concentration. So you can enjoy its fragrance without irritating the skin.
The designs on the masks are super cute. The jasmine scent is very very light. It’s meant to help relax and relieve tiredness and eye strain. You can definitely feel the warmth of the mask (it’s not hot, just toasty warm). You slip the loops around your ear and sit back while enjoying the heat. It’s a dry mask, so you don’t have to worry about it being messy. After 15 minutes, you can definitely feel the warmth on your eyes and under eyes. It’s probably best to use it when the weather is colder and when you’re getting ready for bed.
RATING: 3.5/5
It’s a cool idea to help relieve tiredness and eye strain. I think it would be really nice if they were reusable. You know those hand warmers that you can heat up and re-use? It would be great if these were reusable.
