Ben Nye Banana Powder....a review

After hearing about Ben Nye Banana Luxury Powder a lot lately, on YOUTUBE and through other blogs, I thought I would give it a try. I got mine on line through Amazon.ca, and it can also be ordered through camerareadycosmetics.com.
This powder comes in a few different shades, and bottle sizes. I got the "Banana" shade, as it seems to be all the rage, and is supposed to be good for any skin shade. (That statement always makes me skeptical)

This is from the "cameraready" web site:

If you haven’t heard of the Ben Nye Luxury Banana Powder then you are either not a makeup artist, don't watch makeup tutorials on youtube, are not into "the latest and greatest thing", or not into Theatrical makeup. But never mind....I have done the research for you! Ben Nye is a brand that specialises in theatrical makeup but their face powders have become very popular, in particular their Banana Luxury Powder.


I first heard about this powder watching Wayne Goss http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6x0jCU92k8

and on Nuberxo http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-6juro4JSgh

and Pixiwoo http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6x0jCU92k8


I got the 3oz. Banana Powder in a shaker bottle. I like the shaker bottle, you can shake a bit out into the cap, and then just swirl your brush in it to pick up the product. A little goes a long way for me. Being fair skinned, I found the intense yellow colour of the banana powder to work best when worn sheerly.

Here are the pros and cons:


Pros:
Perfect for oily skin, stays matte.
Great for normal combination skin, especially in the T zone.
Doesn't change foundation colour.
Brightens face, high- lights if used just on high points.
Sets concealer perfectly, makeup will last all day.
Minimizes the look of large pores.
Yellow based - compliments many skin tones.
Parfum free.
Blends well.
Lots of product for the price.
The price (under 10.00 canadian).




Cons:
I don't think it is carried in local stores. (Has to be ordered on line, which really to me, is not a con)
Not quite as matte and fine as say, Tarte Clay Finishing Powder.
Some people may not like the shaker bottle, but I can't imagine why.
Can look a bit chalky if you apply too much.
It does not smell like bananas!!

All in all, I like this product, and would recommend it. It is a great price, and kind of different, which makes it appealing. It high lights while setting makeup or concealer, stays matte, and lasts all day! The yellow tone gives a warm glow, and blended well with my fair skin tone. I think it would be even better on a darker skin tone! I couldn't compare it to Tarte Clay Finishing Powder, which is my all time fave. But, none the less, a good product. Lots of bang for your buck!

Let me know what you think of this product!

Jane

Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion. A Review.

Hello! I know it has been ages since my last post, and thank you to the people who have written asking where I am! Because most of my reviews have been on makeup products, I thought I would give you my opinion today, on a hair product. Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion.

I got this product from an Aveda store at a local mall. There is 20 gr of product in this little container, and the cost is around 30.00 Canadian. I had first heard about this product through a Youtube friend, she swears by the product, so I thought I would give it a try. First of all, let me say that I was pretty shocked at how little product you get for a hefty price. But hey, nothing ventured, nothing gained. This is what the Aveda web site says about this product: "instantly thickens hair by 17% relies on natural bulking agents acacia gum and kaolin clay creates matte texture great for creating a gritty, "second-day hair" look" The product is a powder. But when I bought it, the Aveda rep warned me not to shake the bottle, or it turns into a liquid. I was advised to simply shake the powder onto my hair, and work it through with my fingers. I did as she said, and instantly found that I could push my hair into a much more "boofy do". It adds a lot of texture, and really does make your hair feel thicker. It is great if you like a messy, second day hair look. It does leave quite a residue in the hair, and some people may find that it is hard to brush through your hair after applying it. It is a strange consistency, it comes out as powder, but once it is touched and worked with, it becomes a liquid. I have to be careful not to use too much of this product, or my hair can look like it hasn't been washed in several days. I would say it is worth a try, if you want to achieve a messy, body filled look, even on very fine hair. Finding out just how to use this product was a bit tricky, as there seems to be a very fine line between the perfect amount to use and using too much. My hairdresser uses it in her salon, a lot. She told me it is her secret weapon for those messy, body full, sex-kitten hair styles. Hey, you've got to love that! I would buy it again, but also keep my other products. I don't think I would use it every day, just because of the build up of product, making my hair feel very coated. I give Aveda Hair Potion a 3 out of 5. Let me know if you have used this product, and what you think of it. Also, let me know if there are any other products that you would like to see reviewed. Thanks! jane

Laura Mercier, Rachel K, Tarte...some Summer favourites!

It has been so long! Thank you to the people who wrote to me asking what had happened to me! I was away on holiday for a month in Europe, also life is just so busy in my house! Anyway, today I am going to go over some of my favourite body products and makeup...new and old!
I'll start with body products. I have always loved lotions and creams, but have lately been trying body oils.

Caudalie Paris, Devine Oil (100ml): (for body and hair)

What it does: (from the Sephora Web Site)
"This multi-use miracle oil is ideal for hair, nails, bath, and massages. Divine Oil is a unique alchemy of four extremely fine and evanescent vegetable oils (60% of the formula). To ensure that the benefits are truly complete, Divine Oil also features patented antioxidant grape-seed polyphenols and fair trade shea butter.

A subtle fragrance that will make you swoon as it caresses your skin. For the signature note of the fragrance Jacques Cavallier chose the rose, both the Moroccan rose and the Bulgarian rose."

I found this oil in London, but it is available in Canada and the U.S. The smell of the oil is what really sold me. It is rich and warm, and comes in a spray bottle like perfume. The oil sinks into the skin, and moisturizes right away. It leaves the skin with a soft sheen, but does not feel heavy like baby oil. I have also rubbed a tiny bit into the ends of my hair, it helps with fly- aways and moisturizes. Love, love, love this product!

The next product is: Geisha Body Oil (200ml), from Bali James (www.balijames.com)

I ordered this body oil from the Bali James web site. A friend recommended it, and I am so glad she did! When it arrived it was packaged so nicely, and the product comes in a glass pump bottle. When you order these oils, there is a choice of fragrances. I chose "Ritual", it is a musky, florally warm scent. This a an aromatic oil, that is easy to spread and truly is a treat for the senses. Check out the web site!

I also got the Bali James Geisha Cuticle Oil. This also comes in a glass bottle (30ml) with a dropper. This is THE BEST cuticle oil I have ever used...ever!

Well, these are my favourite body oils. Definitely worth checking out. I would give these three products 5 out of 5 :-)

On to a few of the makeup products I have been enjoying!

Laura Mercier Mineral Powder. This mineral powder has an SPF 15, and is not as shiny as most mineral powders. It covers well, and takes the place of a liquid foundation. Perfect for Summer, it gives a natural glow, and covers imperfections. I got the shade Classic Beige, and use a Samantha Chapman, Real Techniques buffing brush to apply it. This is the most natural look I have found in a long time. But with the coverage I like.

Just a side note about brushes. My opinion is that your makeup is only as good as the brush you are using. The best brushes I have found, and I have tried many, are the Real Techniques brushes by Samantha Chapman. They are reasonably priced, and great quality. (realtechniques.com)

Tarte EmphasEyes Inner Rim Brightener.

This little roll up pencil is for rimming the inside rims of your eyes. It is a pale flesh colour, and when applied to the lower lash line, it really opens the eye area and gives a healthy glow. It covers any redness and gives a more natural look, even when doing a smokey eye.
A great little find! And, I love Tarte products!

Stilla Brow Pen. All day wear, waterproof brow colour.
The best brow pen I have found, for staying power and for the colour. Some brow pens have a strange pinkish tone to them, this one does not. For those of us that change the natural shape of our brows (something a lot of woman have to do as we age), this pen stays all day and will not rub off, even on the hottest day!



And last but not least....

Rachel K CC Cream. (beauty balm)

This formula is a little different from BB creams. It is a really good makeup primer. Especially under a mineral powder. It seems to fill in pores (without clogging them) and leaves a perfect surface to apply foundation or powder.
Not available in Canada, but easy to order on line.

Just a few of my favourite things! All worth a try, I highly recommend all these products!

Until next time,
Jane

CLARINS~Delectable Self Tanning Mousse SPF 15

This self tanner is the best one I have ever tried. It goes on smoothly, has an SPF15, and after just a couple of applications, you can see a beautiful golden tan! I have tried a lot of self tanners over the years. I liked some of the lower end lotions that give a soft glow, but inevitably would stop using them because I couldn't stand the smell. I also went the high end route trying Lancome Flash Bronzers, Lise Watier, and many others. I liked the Lancome Leg gel a lot. It had a sparkle to it and a tint, so in was an instant effect. But again....that horrible smell. Even though the high ends have masking agents in them to reduce the smell....I could always smell it, even after it dried down.
The active ingredient in the self tanning formulas is, dihydroxyacetone(DHA). DHA is a colorless sugar that's often derived from sugar beets or sugar cane. When applied to the skin, it reacts with the amino acids in the skin's very top layer...creating a "tan" and also that smell!
Clarins has come up with a very good masking agent, when you smell the Delectable Self Tanning Mousse in the jar, you can smell a hint of the bad DHA smell. However...when applied to the skin, a soft fruity smell is all you smell. And, when it dries down, there is pretty much no scent at all.
Another down side to self tanners, is the orange tone that they give. Some of the high end ones are better at not turning the skin orange, and certainly work best at giving colour to darker/olive skin tones. But get a very pale skinned person to use even a high end product like Lancome Flash Bronzer, and they turn an orange-ish tan colour. (I can spot a Lancome self tanner a mile away!)
I have fair skin on my arms and chest, and the Clarins does look a bit orange-ish until the second application, then it has a golden tan colour. You can use the tanner every day, until you get your desired darkness, but 2 applications gives a nice hint of Summer!
CLARINS~Delectable Self Tanning Mousse is probably the best self tanner I have ever used. I love that it has an SPF 15 in it. It feels smooth going on, and I love the texture of the mouse. It gives a nice natural colour. And best of all...it does not smell!!!

I purchased this product at the Bay. Price:42.00 (it will last me all Summer)
I recommend this product, and will buy it again!
Thanks for reading!
Jane

Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation~ a review.

I have tried so many foundations, it is difficult to say which I like the best. However.... Estee Lauder Double Wear is certainly near the top of my list. Over the winter I had a thing for Chanel Aqualumiere. I love the texture of Chanel, but found that the Aqualumiere didn't have the coverage I needed all the time. And so, my search for a medium to full coverage makeup began... Estee Lauder Double Wear is a "stay-in-place makeup", is a medium coverage, and has an SPF 10 in it.

I have heard that this makeup is very good in the Summer, because it will not melt off in the heat, and does not look oily after a long day. As a matter of fact, this makeup would be excellent for oily skin, because of it's staying power, and slightly matte finnish. I have normal/combination skin, and found this product to go on smoothly, and gives great coverage. Imperfections are covered without a thick, caked on look. My pores look smaller with this product, and I found it to be very buildable. I think any skin type could use this foundation, but dry skin may need some extra moisturizer on the skin first. I really like that there are so many colour choices, and matching my skin tone was easy. I chose the Double Wear "Tawny" and it was a perfect match!

Double Wear comes in a glass bottle, so you can get every drop out, unlike some of the pump style foundations. I apply my foundation with a stippling brush, or my fingers. This foundation is easy to spread and blend. Since I started wearing this product, I have had many compliments on my skin looking clear and soft. That in itself is enough to make me purchase this product again! What do you think of this foundation? ____________________________________________________ Price: around 50.00 Canadian/ Store: purchased at Sears/ Rating: 4/5/ Would I buy again: yes! ______________________________________________________ Until next time, Jane :-)

Raw Juice Recipe~ For Energy, and Lovely Skin!

This raw juice is really good in the morning! It energizes and detoxifies. Also....in time you will notice that your skin is radiant, clear, and softer. Do yourself a favour, and try this out!

4 navel oranges, pealed
1 apple (I used a Pink Lady apple)
4 carrots
1 small chunk of ginger
1 cup baby spinach
3 celery stalks

Put all items through a juicer.....drink right away.
So...So good!

Vichy Liftactiv Serum 10 ~ Review

I bought this product, mainly because I have loved every Vichy product I have ever used.
Liftactiv is an anti aging line that fights wrinkles and acts to firm the skin. There is a day cream for normal/combination skin, a day cream for dry, a night cream, and now a serum.
The serum has an anti aging formula of 10% Rhamnose, thermal spa water, and Hyaluronic acid. Rhamnose is a plant sugar, that is known for it's soothing and moisturizing properties and has been clinically proven to improve skin rejuvenation . Thermal spa water is rich in trace minerals and is very healing, hyaluronic acid plumps the skin, making it appear more youthful and lifted. Vichy claims that one drop, in ten minutes.....

The texture of this serum is light and refreshing. A drop goes a long way, and feels wonderful on the skin. It reminds me of Lancome Genifique, it looks and feels the same. However, they are very different. I wasn't all that impressed with the results I saw with Genifique (like, NO result). Vichy Liftactiv Serum 10 is about half the price of Genifique, and for me, a much better product.
I can't honestly say I saw a result in 10 minutes, but after using the serum every morning and every evening for six weeks, I have noted some differences in my skin. I feel that my face is looking lifted and the skin is more full and youthful. I am over fifty and do not expect miracles, and indeed did not get any miracles. However, my skin is very soft and smooth, and I do notice a plumpness to my cheeks, and a less saggy appearance. I think this product would work very well for women in their forties, or late thirties. Having said that, I will continue to use Liftactiv Serum 10, because at this point "ANY" improvement is good! My husband said he thinks my skin is very soft, and that is is looking more youthful. Mind you, he is a sweetheart, and would say this even if I spread mud on my face.

Any product that delivers on their promises, is a product worth using! Vichy has not let me down. As I said before, I have loved every Vichy product I have ever used!
This product sells for around 50.00.
I give this product a 4 out of 5.

Until next time my anti aging friends....

Jane :-)

Darkness around the eyes~How to get rid of it!

If you are someone who has dark circles under your eyes, or darkness in the corners of your eyes, you know how frustrating this can be. The cause can be lack of sleep, stress, genetics, or simply....aging. There does not seem to be a fail safe cure, but there are a few things that will help, and ways to make those dark areas.... disappear!

First and foremost, a raw foods diet with lots of vegetable juicing is highly recommended. Be sure to include foods high in antioxidants, which help heal and repair cell damage, and Vitamin K, which aids in blood circulation. Foods that should be included are strawberries, broccoli, cabbage, spinach and carrots. And...lots of dark leafy greens!

Vitamin K, also called phytonadione, has been found to benefit the under-eye area when used topically. Most topical creams that are for dark circles around eyes, do contain vitamin K.
Another ingredient that seems to work is Lexin DC, which is found in Hylexin Serious Dark Circle Cream made by Bremenn. I actually had a black eye once, and this cream did take a lot of the bruising away, quite quickly.

Now, on to what will make the darkness disappear in a matter of minutes! Makeup! There are so many good concealers on the market, and some work better than others. Here are some of the tricks and products that I have used over the years, and have found to be the best to get the job done!

If the darkness around your eyes has a lot of blue tone to it, start peach concealer. Eve Pearl Salmon Concealer is fabulous. Just pat this over the dark areas. A pink toned concealer works well, if the darkness is more brownish. Giorgio Armani makes a great pinkish corrector. (other colours as well)

After the peach/pink concealer is applied, it is time to pat on a skin toned concealer. Lancome Maquicomplet, Lancome Effacernes, and Mac Paint pots are all good. Smooth the skin toned concealer over the other concealer, and blend. The darkness will fade away. Set with a fine powder, like Tarte Clay powder, or any other loose powder.

If you are someone who just seems to have the darkness on the inside corners of your eyes, a great tool to have on hand is an EYE BRIGHT pencil by Benefit. This bright lilac pencil used on it's own, works wonders!

One more product that is an easy fix for tired looking eyes, is Tarte's EmphasEYES pencil. This pencil is formulated to be used on the inside waterline of the eyes, and can also be used to brighten around the eyes. (like on inside corners) This is a wonderful tool for dark areas, and waking up a tired looking eye!

These are just some of the things that you can do to help with darkness around your eyes. If you have questions about application or where you can buy these products, please contact me. <3

BB Cream...what is it?

BB Cream is short for Blemish Balm Cream. Where did it come from and how did it become so popular?

The formula is reported to have come from Germany originally. Dermatologists use it for healing blemish prone skin, and also tender skin after laser surgery. Famous South Korean actresses then began using it for beauty purposes, and suddenly a craze was born. The trend that started in Korea first spread to Japan then to South East Asia and has now quickly made its way to Europe and the USA. In the USA, the label became "Beauty Balm" rather than "Blemish Balm" simply for sales. The "beauty"labeled products sell a lot more than the "blemish" labeled products. The formulas have changed as well, and every BB cream has it's own claim. Some have anti aging properties, some have skin whitening properties, etc.
I tried the new Vichy, Neovadiol Lumiere BB Cream. This BB cream is for mature skin. The texture is like all BB creams. A balm, so thicker than a daily moisturizer, with a skin tone tint. The tint in this BB cream is lovely, peachy in colour. It goes on nicely, and has a slight glow to it, as the formula has mother of pearl in it to give a luminous, light reflecting finnish.
BB Cream can be used on top of your daily moisture and treatment creams, or instead of. Personally, I find BB cream to be quite heavy, so would skip other moisturizers while wearing it.
Really the bottom line is, BB Cream is the same as a tinted moisturizer, only heavier. (thats why it is called a BALM) I don't get what all the fuss is about. I suppose it is easier, if you like an "all in one" application, moisture and tint. But the coverage is not anywhere near the coverage of a foundation.
So, to sum it up, (Blemish Balm) BB cream is great for Blemish prone skin (if you get an original formula), because it will help heal, and you don't have to add a skin irritating foundation on top. The other "Beauty Balm", BB Creams are good for a dry skin, or for someone who likes a tinted moisturizer with a heavier (balm) texture. I am thinking it is a trend that may just, fade away.
As for the Vichy Lumiere BB Cream, I am afraid I can't rate it. It made my skin itch and my eyes water. I usually love Vichy products, but this one was a fail.

Revlon Photoready Airbrush Mousse Makeup ~ Review.

I bought Revlon's Photoready mousse foundation, at a local london Drugs store. I think the price was under 20.00$. I have been using Chanel's Vitalumiere Aqua for the last little while, and love it. But, at over 50.00 per bottle, I thought I would give the new mousse foundation by Revlon a try!
To use this product, you must shake the can before using, then press the pump to put some on the back of your hand. The product comes out quickly, so be careful when you press the pump. The product comes out like a whipped up mousse. You don't need much more than about the size of a quarter, to do your whole face. I apply with a foundation brush, but can easily be smoothed around with fingers. I wouldn't use a sponge, as the formula is quite thin and will be soaked right up by a sponge.
Application is easy, the product feels smooth and covers quite well. I would say it is a medium coverage, and you can build coverage with a second application.
The finnish is dewy, and in some light can look almost shiny. Nothing that a little powder won't help. I found that it covers quite well, and stays put throughout the day. There are several shades to choose from, from a very light to a deep tone. This was great, as I found a colour that matches my skin perfectly, after settling for a Chanel foundation that is just a touch too light.
All in all, it isn't a bad foundation. On the good side, it is good coverage. Easy application, good selections of colours, and the texture is light and creamy.
On the down side, the pump tends to get messy with dried up foundation. The finnish is perhaps a little too dewy, and in some light I think I noticed a sparkle or two. ( great if you are into sparkly foundation)
Certainly not in the same league as my Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua foundaion (even if it is a touch too light in colour), but a pretty good drug store product for under twenty dollars!
I'd give this product a 2.5 out of 5.

Nip + Fab, Night Fix ~A Product Review

Nip + Fab, Night Fix is a brand from the UK, and available at Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada. It is a mid priced night cream at around 35.00 that claims to "rejuvenate, add radiance, leave skin smoother, and give a visibly younger looking skin".

Night Fix contains KiOsmetime-CG™ which apparently stimulates the natural production of collagen to reduce wrinkles. And, it prevents premature ageing by strengthening the skin's barrier function.

This product contains:

retinol: to promote younger looking
rosehip oil: softens + rejuvenates
hyaluronic acid: to restore moisture

If you are a person who loves to slather on a rich, thick moisture cream at night, this product isn't for you. Nip and Fab Night Fix is a gel. It goes on smoothly and leaves no hint of an oily slick on your face. It absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling smooth and fresh. I would recommend this product to people with oily skin, and also normal combination skin. Even though it leaves no residue, it really does moisturize. The instructions say to massage into cleansed skin at night. I have been using it on top of a nightly serum. I really like the texture and have found that it moisturizes like any good night cream, without the heavy richness.
After using for a month or so, I have noticed my skin is looking firmer, and has a certain glow, that I did't have before! I also notice that my skin feels a lot softer.
Nip and fab has a huge line of moisturizers, body treatments, lotions etc. I found this product at Shoppers, and hope other stores in Canada will be carrying it in the future!
Here is the web site for Nip+Fab: www.nipandfab.com
Check it out!
I recommend this product, and give it a 4 out of 5!

Raw Juicing~ This combination will make you feel Energized!

Try this combination of raw, organic fruits and veggies in your juicer mid day, for a huge "pick me up"!

1 apple
1 grapefruit
1 handful of fresh cranberries
1/4 lime (pealed)
1 chunk of ginger (size of a sugar lump)
2 carrots
1 handful of spinach

Cheers! Do you have a fave juicing recipe? Please leave a comment, or send me a recipe!

Tarte~Smooth Operator, Finishing Powder~Review

Tarte, Smooth Operator, Finishing Clay Powder. This product is amazing! I got a sample of this from Sephora the last time I was there. I tried it and within a few days was on line ordering some! After applying my makeup, I used a large fluffy brush to dust this all over my face. At first I was a bit skeptical, because it is a white powder, and I thought it may leave a white finish on my face. But no, it leaves a matte (but not too matte!) finnish that is super silky and makes my skin very, very soft. It sets my makeup without looking "powdery" and helps in making my makeup look fresh all day.
This product is made from Amazonian clay. A natural ingredient that balances the skin, moisturizes it, and stays matte.
This is from the "Tarte" web site:

Amazonian clay: this nutrient rich clay is extracted from the banks of the Amazon River where the nutrients are at their highest concentration. This multitasking and total skin balancing clay has been known to:
Remove surface oil to mattify skin
Hydrate dry skin
Nourish all skin types
Give skin an overall smooth and even appearance
Reduce the appearance of dryness and flakiness
Improve the appearance of skin clarity and skin texture



skinvigorating™ ingredients

Amazonian Clay: nature’s most perfect ingredient providing total skin balance



skinvigorating™ benefits

~formulated without mineral oil
~formulated without paraben
~formulated without phthalates
~cruelty free
~formulated without sodium lauryl sulfate
~formulated without synthetic fragrance

Tatrte also makes a finishing clay powder in a Bronze colour, which I will be ordering for Spring.
I love natural products that actually do what they say they will do! I would urge you to try this product (I love it!)...and give it a 5 out of 5!
28.00 on the Tarte web site.

Genifique by Lancome~ A Product Review

I do like the feel and texture of Lancome's Genifique. This serum is supposed to be a "youth activating serum". The following claims are from the Lancome web site:

Today, for every woman, Lancôme creates our 1st Youth Activator - GÉNIFIQUE.

See visibly younger skin in just 7 days.

• Drop by drop, skin is infused with life.

• Vibrant with youth, skin looks as if lit from within - breathtakingly radiant.

• Skin's youthful quality returns: cushiony soft and velvety to the touch.

• Skin's tone is astonishingly even; its texture dramatically refined.
http://www.lancome-usa.com/Génifique/1000301,default,pd.html?start=2&cgid=skincare-genefique

Well, who doesn't want "visibly younger skin in just seven days"! So I bought a bottle, and thought I would give it a good try. I applied the product every morning and every evening after cleansing my face. I took a really good look at my skin before I started, and yes, I do have fine lines around my eyes and the normal amount of skin imperfections for a mature woman.
Applying the product is very nice. As with all Lancome products, it is a wonderful texture, and was a nice base to apply makeup on. (Although, I did apply moisturizer on top of the serum) As for the claim from the web site that I would have younger looking skin in seven days...well that didn't happen. I really wanted to see a youthful glow, but alas, nothing.
So, after re-reading the claims and seeing that "drop by drop, skin is infused with life", I carried on. I have faithfully applied this youth activating serum now for two months. My skin is soft, but I am not sure it is much softer now than before I started the product. "Breathtakingly radiant"...ummm, regretfully, no. "lit from within"...again, no.

I have to say that I have seen very little or no change in my skin since starting with Lancome Genifique Consentrate. Very disappointing. My skin is soft, but as I mentioned, not that much different than before the product. Other than that, I truly have seen NO difference in my skin.I am a bit shocked, as I have friends that love the product and have bought it over and over again. My thought is that we believe that because Lancome is a trusted brand, we may get caught up in the hype, and really want to think it is working. I am sure there may be some microscopic changes in my skin, but to the naked eye....nothing.
An expensive product. Little or no result.
These are the prices, from Lancome's web site:


0.67 Fl. Oz.-$58.00

1.0 Fl. Oz.1.0 Fl. Oz.-$78.00

1.7 Fl. Oz.1.7 Fl. Oz.-$98.00

2.5 Fl. Oz.2.5 Fl. Oz.-$125.00

I would give this product a 1 out of 5. :-(

Raw Juicing Recipe

Raw Juice Smoothie:

Juice the following in your juicer:

2 carrots
2 oranges pealed
3 stalks celery
1 pear

Pour this juice into a blender with a handful of ice, then add:

3 heaping tablespoons of your fave yogurt (vanilla, or fruit types)
1 banana
1 handful of frozen (or fresh if in Season) blueberries

Blend, and drink! Soooo good :-)

Key Health Benefits of Juicing:

(Taken directly from the "Juicing Guru, http://www.juicer-guru.com/) >3



Juicing Helps Digestion
One of the major juicing benefits is that it helps the body's digestive system function more effectively. It aids in relieving constipation, can reduce the risk of colon cancer, and has a cleansing effect. The nutrients in fresh juice from raw fruits and vegetables are more easily absorbed than when eating whole foods.

Nutritional Benefits
You know that one of the benefits of juicing raw fruits and vegetables is that you get all that wonderful nutritional value. These foods are packed with vitamins and minerals, as well as other important substances for optimum health. Enzymes and antioxidants help the body experience fewer symptoms of certain diseases.

Relieve Symptoms of Many Diseases Health Conditions
You will likely be surprised at these juicing benefits. For example, fresh ginger juice can relieve the pain of arthritis. Fresh cherry juice can help ease joint pain caused by gout. Fresh carrot juice is very effective at relieving constipation. There are so many ways that fresh fruit and vegetable juice can make you feel fantastic.

Juicing Tips
Juice tends to oxidize quickly. As this happens, the levels of nutrients begin to fall. This is why it is so important to drink juice as soon as possible after you make it. Some juicers work better than others at keeping oxidation at bay, allowing you to make enough juice to last a couple of days in the refrigerator. However, the sooner you drink it, the more nutritional value it has.

You can find some very flavorful recipes to use with your juicer. You can combine fruits and vegetables to get the best nutritional value or choose just one ingredient. These recipes can be found at many websites online, but there are usually recipe books included with new juicers, as well. Don't be afraid to try something new. You might just find your favorite juice through experimentation!

In Closing
Juicing benefits go far beyond convenience and taste. This is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle and you will be amazed at how much energy you have. Many people credit their longevity to juicing, as well as a youthful appearance. After just a few days of juicing, you will notice that your skin is brighter and younger looking, you have tons of energy and that your vitality is much improved. Why hesitate to get started down a new pathway to overall health and wellbeing? Start today and see the difference!

Ten Little Things...for women of any age.

One of the many great things about getting older, is that most people learn a lot along the way. I had a Mother who was full of wonderful advise and innovative ideas. Also, a Grandmother that imparted many pearls of wisdom to me. The following is a list of ten valuable little tips that I have learned along the way, that will keep you looking and feeling beautiful!

!. Wash your face at night. If you wear makeup or not, this is a habit everyone should practice.
Washing the grime of the day off, along with makeup and natural oils, will allow your skin to drink up any night treatment or moisturizer you put on it. You will have fewer breakouts, and have a healthier, young skin longer!

2.Moisturize your skin. Every day and every night. You will be happy you did as you age!

3. As we age, we loose colour. Our skin looses colour, our eye colour fades, our hair looses colour, our lips loose colour. ADD some colour! A little makeup goes a long way to make women look pretty and alive! Don't add colour just for special occasions, do it every day! Why would you only want to look good for special occasions?

4. If you have had the same hair style for more than five years...it's time to change it. Just because it looked good in 1985, does not mean it looks good now.

5. If you have had the same eye glasses for five years....it's time to change them. Really.
Don't be afraid of change. Styles change, we change. Embrace change, have fun with it.

6. Exercise.

7. Don't smoke. There isn't one single reason why you should. You will regret it.

8. Do what your heart desires. Don't let others hold you back. You will regret this as well! Feeling fulfilled, shows on your face!

9. Do whatever it takes to feel confident about yourself. Confidence is beauty.

10. Don't "settle". For anything. Life is too short. :-)

Raw Juicing....Recipes for Anti-Aging and Beautiful Health!

An energizing Morning juice.

1 pealed orange
1 apple
2 carrots
1/4 lemon
small chunk of fresh ginger

Wash and put through juicer, drink right away. Very energizing and refreshing!

A juice for afternoon.

1 small beet
2 handfulls of spinach
2 carrots
2 celery stalks
1 apple

Sooooo good for you!

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Beauty From the Inside Out

As we begin a brand new year, like most women, I am looking at ways to improve my health. A huge bonus to looking after one's self on the inside, is that it always reflects on the outside! As you know, if you have been following my blog, I started juicing a few months ago. I have been interested in eating "raw" foods, and incorporating more raw fruits and vegetables into my diet. I was very impressed with Mimi Kirk, the 71 year old woman who was voted, "the sexiest vegetarian"by PETA. Check this out:

Impressive. (I am not a vegetarian, I still eat meat, but not a lot of red meat.I prefer chicken and fish.)
I also watched several videos by the "liferegenerator" (http://www.youtube.com/user/liferegenerator) He's great, although perhaps a bit extreme for what I was looking for. Anyway, so far I have incorporated raw juicing into every day. I have at least two, but usually three fresh juices every day. The morning juice is the one with the most fruit and followed by two that are mostly vegetable. And yes, these are consumed morning, noon and evening, preferably before meals. The juicer I use is certainly not top of the line, but works fine for now. (Hamilton Beach) Besides indulging in all the Christmas goodies these last few weeks ( and I really did indulge!), I would say the raw food juices account for 50% of my daily food intake. I am certainly not fanatical about this, and would really benefit from limiting what I eat otherwise. But, I feel so incredibly different from this amount of raw juicing, I just have to share!
My husband has joined me in juicing. We both found that we felt very different, in a very short time. Energy levels have increased, a lot. We both went through a period of feeling almost euphoric, and were amazed at how much we craved the juices. My husband immediately lost 10 lbs, and I lost 6lbs. ( I love losing weight without trying ) Our sleeping patterns changed for the better, and I noticed a difference in my skin tone and colour...for the better!
A good book to read about the benefits of raw juicing is, Raw Juicing, by Leslie Kenton. I ordered this book from Amazon, it is an easy read and very informative. There are also several videos on YouTube that demonstrate recipes and give valuable information.
Juicing can be life changing. Aches and pains associated with aging, can disappear. Stomach, digestion and bowel problems can disappear. There are case studies where grey hair has returned to the colour it was in youth. Skin regains elasticity. Hair becomes healthier, with shine and thickness. I could go on and on! As some of you know, in the past year I have undergone two major surgeries. I had both hips totally replaced. Regaining mobility and feeling "normal" has been a rough and long road. Raw juicing has hastened my recovery, by helping me regain energy, and a notable change in the stiffness of my joints. These two changes were felt within days.
For the next few weeks, I am going to post juicing recipes that I use daily. I highly recommend trying this! Do your homework, read some testimonials, watch some Youtube videos on raw juicing, you will only benefit from this. After all, we all know that beauty and health comes from what we put into our bodies.

My Morning Juice today! (try to use organic fruit and veg, and wash them first!)

2 small apples
1 orange (peal citrus fruit, but keep as much pith as possible on the fruit)
1 pink grapefruit
3 carrots
3 celery stalks
a handful of fresh cranberries
1 large sprig of fresh mint

This is just what I happened to have on hand, but the combination is refreshing, and yummy!
Watch for another recipe tomorrow! Have you tried juicing? Do you have a recipe to share? Please leave a comment, and thank you for your continued support and following my blog!
Jane

http://makeupwithjane.blogspot.com/

~2011, A Few of my Favourite Things!~

This year has gone so quickly! I thought I would share a few of my favourite products with you! Some are new and some are "tried and true". It was difficult to just pick a few things, but here they are! (More Faves, to come later!)

Chanel Vialumiere Aqua Foundation.

This makeup is soft and light, the texture is amazing. It evens out skin tone, and looks very natural, while covering little imperfections. It is on the expensive side at around 50.00, but it feels and works wonderfully, so to me worth the price. Love it!

Lancome Dual Finnish, Power Makeup.

This powder has makeup in it, and can be used wet or dry. It comes with a sponge for when applying wet, and gives a flawless matte coverage. When used dry, as I use it, is gives a light matte finnish, and stays matte all day. It can be used over foundation, or instead of foundation. Lasts forever, and smells lovely! Again, a little on the expensive side, but well worth it!

Prestige, Sun Flower Bronzer.

This is an inexpensive, drugstore brand that is amazing! This bronzer comes in two shades: Terra, and Sunkissed. Both give a natural illuminating glow, without a lot of shimmer and sparkle. Not quite matte, but certainly a lot less shimmer than most bronzers. The pan it comes in is huge, and usually lasts up to a year. Great for conturing and of course, for a sun kissed look!


A find of me this year was NYX cosmetics. I had heard about this line from several YouTube gurus. Here is Canada, this brand is hard to find, and is only in a few drug stores. At first I thought it was just another low end line, but had to try it because of all the good things I had heard about it. It is so good! The quality is amazing, which at this price point, is unusual. I heard Wayne Goss rave about the quality and variety of colour, and he is so right! One of the best things in the line, I think, are the "Soft Matte Lip Creams". These go on with a wand, like a gloss. At first I thought they would be like one of the long wearing paints, that are dry and annoying. Nope! These creams are creamy, and when put on lightly, stay put for hours, and you can't feel a thing on your lips. Two of my favourite colours in this line are: Amsterdam and Antherp. Lovely! The eye shadows in this line are also wonderful quality at a great price. The jumbo eye pencil (in "Milk") has become a favourite as a shadow base. Really, a great line. Inexpensive, and impressive. I can't wait to try more of it.

Moroccan Argan Hair Oil.

This light oil moisturizes and nourishes your hair. It is non-greasy, and protects the hair. It leaves my hair with shine and bounce, and has become a "must have" after my daily shampoo.



Serums for Anti Aging~

This year I have used several anti aging serums and "youth activators". To name a few: Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Serum (125.00 Can.) Prevage Serum (aprox 200.00 Can.) Biotherm Skin Vivo Serum.(80.00)
These anti aging serums are expensive. Like other women my age, I would gladly pay the price on a regular basis, if I thought they made a huge difference. This is what I found; none of the high end expensive serums made a huge difference. They feel nice, and most moisturize. But for the price and the promises on the package.... mostly disappointing. Over the years I have tried so many! And, in all honesty there is only one thing that I have ever used, that actually made a big difference.

Elisabeth Arden Ceramide Capsules. These little caps come for face and for eyes. You break open the capsule, and smooth the ceramide fluid on. I watched my sun damaged skin transform to the firmer, clear skin I had in my thirties. This stuff works.
Face and throat formula: 60 caps for 68.00.
Eye formula: 60 caps for 52.00.


My favourite perfumes don't change every year. My two stand by favourites have been the same for over fifteen years!

Chanel "Coco". Spicy and sexy.
Givenchy "Ysatis". Floral and classic.

But....here are a couple of celeb scents that are actually very nice!

Victoria Beckham, Intimately Beckham. This fragrance is floral and soft. Very pretty and feminine. ( and the men's fragrance"David Beckham", is VERY nice as well.
Jennifer Lopez, "Miami Glow". This scent is "Summery", and has a int of coconut in it. A beautiful daytime fragrance!


These are just a few of my picks for 2011, more to follow! I love trying new products. What are some of your favourite things?