Review: Lisa Hoffman Night & Day Vitamin A & C Serum

My thoughts and experience:  
The first time I tried this was when I received my first Beautyfix kit. I instantly fell in love with it because it was extremely moisturizing. Seeing as I have really dry cheeks, this was really helped keep them soft. I couldn't afford the full size of 1 fl oz (30ml) for $95, so I opted to get it again on my second Beautyfix kit. I received this 0.5 fl oz size in my kit.

The serum is inside a silver bottle. After using it about 2 weeks, the pump stops working. I had a really hard time getting product out, so I pulled open the top part of the pump. Come to find out, it's a very small pump which only reaches to 1/3 from the top of the product. I have to turn the bottle upside down and then pump for serum. I'm not sure if this is a known issue or if I have a defective bottle. But you know how usually things that pump have a tube that goes to the bottom of the bottle? Well this one doesn't have that. If I hadn't open the top, I would have just tossed the thing because I thought it was empty!

When you use the pump to get the product out, it comes clear, thick, and greasy. The serum is very rich. When applied on my face, it goes on smoothly. I rub my face a couple of times to let it absorb. It looks greasy on my face when applied, which is why I never use this during the day time. After about 10 minutes or so, it settles and I don't look oily anymore. It feels velvety smooth to the touch.

When I wake up, my face feels so soft, moisturized, non-greasy, and plump. I love it! If it was not for the expensive price tag on this, it would be part of my regular night routine. So right now, I just hope I will see it again on my next Beautyfix kit.

Ingredients:

Retail Price: $95 for 1 fl oz (30 ml)

Where to buy:  www.dermstore.com

Have any of you tried this product? What do you think? Did you guys have issues with the pump?

Disclaimer: This product was purchased by me. I am not affiliated with the company, nor was I paid to do this review.  All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.

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Review: Simple Replenishing Rich Moisturizer

What is it?
"Our Replenishing Rich Moisturizer leaves your skin replenished and nourished all day long, plus it's a perfect blend of our purest possible skin loving ingredients with an added vitamin. "

Retail Price: Starting at $9.99

Where to buy:  Most mass retailers and drugstores

My thoughts and experience:
I've been using this moisturizer for the past few months. It is very lightweight and soothing. It absorbs quickly into my skin and does not feel greasy. I have sensitive skin, and this is very gentle on my skin. I find that this moisturizer is perfect for the hot Summer months, it provides just enough. I have combination skin with dry cheeks and an oily T-zone and it helps keep my cheeks moisturized and my T-zone not too oily.

This product is not a "rich" moisturizer so I would probably need something stronger for the Winter months, but for now, this is perfect!  It doesn't contain any kind of perfumes, dyes or harsh irritants.

Have you tried any of the products from the Simple skincare line? 

Disclaimer: I was given a free product or sample because I'm a Klout influencer. I was under no obligation to receive the sample or talk about this company. I get no additional benefits for talking about the product or company. All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.

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Review: REN Tonic Moisture Mist

What is it? A cooling and hydrating facial spray that revives and tones the complexion.


Retail Price:  $28.00

Where to buy: www.renskincare.com

My thoughts and experience:  

I've been a fan of REN products since I've tried 6 of their best last year. Something about the goodies in their products, or lack thereof, I should say - no parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrance or colors, etc... I figured, since winter was coming up, I wanted to use a brand I was familiar with to help with my super dry skin.

This toner mist comes in a nice glass bottle. I find that the misting part sprays just a tad bit too much, based on other toners I've used before. I use it atleast 3 times a day - before make up, after make up, and after washing my face at night. I've gone through more than half of the bottle already! Spraying my face before make up helps to prepare the surface for make up. Spraying my face after using powdered foundation helps to set it, and keep it looking fresh and radiant throughout the day. Lastly, I use it after washing my face at night to help give it moisture through the night.

I find this product to be very hydrating for my skin, a mist will get rid of any dry spots. It's also very refreshing. It has a light rosy scent, which took some getting used to (I'm not a fan of rose scented things).

Overall, I think this refreshing moisture mist is a great product to use, especially during these dry months.

Do you have a favorite toner?

Disclaimer: This product was purchased by me. I am not affiliated with the company, nor was I paid to do this review.  All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.  

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Review: La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX Daily Use Moisturizer

What is it?
Breakthrough daily moisturizer containing Mexoryl™ SX, a unique organic UV filter that is highly protective against short UVA waves, provides comprehensive UVA/UVB protection*. Anthelios SX features the first new sun filter in a sunscreen approved by the FDA in 18 years.

Retail Price: $31.50


Where to buy: www.laroche-posay.us, most drugstore retailer

My thoughts and experience:
This moisturizer is extremely hydrating for my dry skin. It literally melts on my face when I apply it and takes about a minute for it to set. I've used it under make-up, as well as by itself.
I love that it has SPF 15 and no white cast either. 

I use just a small amount in the Summertime, because it's very hydrating! It has a creamy fluffy consistency, and is fragrant free. It always leaves my face feeling soft all day! I definitely recommend this for people with dry skin. I cannot wait to see how well it works during the Winter.

so creamy...

Have you tried this product?

Disclaimer: This editorial sample was sent to me for review considerations from the company or a PR firm. I am not affiliated with the company, nor was I paid to do this review.  All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.

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Review: MAC Studio Moisture Tint SPF 15 - Medium Dark

What is it?
"A light, tinted moisturizer with SPF 15 and other skin-nourishing ingredients. An easy one one-step finish specially suited for the season, this sheer tint provides just enough coverage to even out the skintone while creating a flawless protected, softly moisturized finish. Suitable for all skintones."

Retail Price: $30 for 40ml

Where to buy: Mac Cosmetics, www.maccosmetics.com

My thoughts and experience:
I've been using this product since the weather has started getting warmer (way back in May) and I love it!
The product comes in a tall squeeze tube. The texture is soft, creamy, and blends right into the skin upon contact. I can use my clean fingers to blend or a face brush, either way, it melts right into my skin. It offers light to a buildable medium coverage. It helps even my skintone and cover a few blemishes. It gives it an overall healthy look to my skin without looking too heavy. It is also moisturizing enough for my dry skin. I don't need alot to cover up, just a small double pea size for the entire face.

The medium-dark color has a slight pink-ish undertone, but is does not look too pinkish on me. I have an yellow/olive undertone and it works fine. As with any tinted moisturizers, you can re-apply when needed, however I never really had to with this product. It has a semi-matte finish, giving my skin a healthy glow.

before and after pic with no concealer

I would definitely recommend it to someone who is looking for a natural coverage tinted moisturizer that is light and buildable. 

Have you tried this product?

Disclaimer: This product was purchased by me. I am not affiliated with the company, nor was I paid to do this review.  All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.

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Review: Waxelene

 
What is it? 
Waxelene contains no petroleum products and is made from natural, organic, and sustainable ingredients. Waxelene is a delicate balance of beeswax and beneficial oils that protects, moisturizes, and soothes skin. It can be used for anything that petroleum jelly is used for. Keeping it simple and natural assures that we have a positive impact on our planet and your health.

Retail Price: 2oz for $6.00 // 9oz for $15.99

Where to buy: www.waxlene.com

My thoughts and experience:
I like the simple, easy to understand packaging. I can understand everyone of those ingredients listed! Hooray :] Waxelene comes in a small jar with a lid. Always apply with clean hands to minimize germs in the product.

It has a light honey beeswax scent to it, very natural smelling. The texture is thick, waxy, and has a slight oily feel to it. I've been using it to moisturize dry areas of my face, my lips, and my cuticles. It does a wonderful job! You only need a small amount to use each time; this will last me a long time. This is another product I wish I had discovered during the winter months. It works really well on dry patches of my skin.

I've thrown out my tub of Vaseline, and I've been using this as a natural alternative to it. I highly recommend it for those dry patches.

Have you tried Waxelene?

Disclaimer: This editorial sample was sent to me for review considerations from the company or a PR firm. I am not affiliated with the company, nor was I paid to do this review.  All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.  

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Review: Yes to Carrots Repairing Night Cream

What is it?
Stars aren't the only things that shine at night - so does your beautiful face! With Yes To Carrots Repairing Night Cream , your skin gets that extra evening boost in hydration levels. By promoting moisture retention, it softens, smoothes and firms your face, leaving you emanating a gorgeous, soft, healthy glow, so bright you'll need a sleep mask to catch some zzz's! - website

Price: $14.99

Where to buy: yestocarrots.com, most retailers

My thoughts and experience:
I love the happy vibe and informative box package. However, I'm not a fan of things in a tub, just because it seems less sanitary - dipping my finger in the product and doing that several times just does not seem appeasing. So make sure you wash your hands before applying the moisturizer.

This night time moisturizer has a thick and rich cream consistency. It was perfect for those cold and dry air nights. There is a strong smell of baby powder (I thought it would smell like carrots, lol) that lingers for a while. I love to lather my entire face with this before I sleep. I find that it absorbs well and does not feel oily. When I wake up in the morning, my face feels very refreshed and well moisturized. I would recommend this product for people with dry to normal skin type.

almost gone!

Have you tried anything from Yes to Carrots?

Disclaimer: I purchased the mentioned product. I am not affiliated with the company, nor was I paid to do this review.  All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.  

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Review: DNA EGF Intensive Renewal

What is it?
Targets the skin's natural DNA repair processes, infusing skin with optimal hydration to counter the effects of ageing revealing a younger, healthier skin. Features the highest levels of DNA REPAIR ENZYMES and a liposome delivery system to activate the recovery of youthful skin. - website

Retail Price: $125 for 30ml



Where to buy: www.dnaegfrenewal.com
 

My thoughts and experience:
I was sent a 10 ml editorial sample of this product to try. I've only been using it for two weeks, and I would say that my skin feels firmer, thicker, and looks healthier. The moisturizer is non-scented, and the formula is lightweight and more on the watery side. I was surprised at how little I needed to cover my entire face. I found this to be very moisturizing for my dry skin. 

I wish I could say more about the long term effects of this product, however, two weeks was not enough to provide this info.


You can find more information about this product here.

Disclaimer: This editorial sample was sent to me for review considerations from the company or a PR firm. I am not affiliated with the company, nor was I paid to do this review.  All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or provided. See full disclaimer here.  

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Review: Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30

What is it?
Get advanced sun protection with this SPF 30 daily moisturizer. Clinically proven Total Soy Complex and natural light diffusers work to naturally even out skin tone and immediately reflect light to bring out skin's natural radiance. Gentle enough for sensitive skin and daily use, this moisturizer is also oil-free, hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic, and contains SPF 30 UVA/UVB sunscreen to protect skin from premature aging. - Aveeno website

Price: $15

Where to buy: Drugstores chains

My thoughts: The packaging is very informative, it has info on all four sides of the box explaining the benefits of the product. It has an easy to use pump that can also be closed up (by turning it to one side) should you need to travel with your moisturizer. This is a huge plus for me because whenever I travel, I don't have to worry about product spewing out into my belongings. The texture is a soft, souffle-like cream. When applying, it goes on smooth and feels very lightweight. I usually wait about a minute or so to let it completely soak into my face before applying other makeup. The SPF 30 is another great thing about it; it stays on all day. There is a hint smell of sunscreen when applying, nothing that lingers though. I've used half of the bottle already in a couple of weeks, but have not notice any evening out of my skin tone. I do not notice  having a smoother texture either. This moisturizer works well with my dry skin, and keeps it moisturized throughout the day. Overall, this is just a great moisturizer with SPF in it.

Disclaimer:  This product was purchased by me. All reviews on SiSi Sparkles are my honest opinion, whether it was purchased or given. See full disclaimer here.

Review: REN - Clean Bio Active Skincare - Six of the Best

I've used this set long enough to be able to do a review for you all. An associate from Sephora diagnosed my skin as "super dry" while I thought it was oily/combination. She introduced me to this line of skin care products, because taking care of my skin should be the first step. She recommended REN - Clean Bio Active Skincare - Six of the Best.

Info and claims from Sephora.com:
An essential ensemble of complexion care favorites. Cleanse, scrub, renew, and repair with this all-in-one kit that will make your skin more healthy and radiant than ever.

Retail Price: $40.00

My thoughts:
This was a completely new thing for me, to splurge on something like this. I've always used drugstore branded skincare products. After using this for two weeks, my skin does feel more radiant, hydrated, and healthier looking. Even though the back of the box says that this is for a one week use, I've used it for over two weeks now, and still have product left. Overall, this is a great skin care line and will be sharing my thoughts on each REN product separately.

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Mayblossom and Blue Cypress Balancing Facial Cleansing Gel - $32 - 150ml
"For Combination Skin - a balancing, antibacterial facial cleansing gel for skin that is prone to oiliness and breakouts, particularly in the T-zone. Removes dirt and dissolves excess sebum; unclogs pores; reduces the appearance of pore size." - REN

I've only used this twice because it says that it's more for people with oily/combination skin. When I did use it, it made my skin dry out. It also had a very strong scent that kinda bothered me.

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Jojoba Micro Bead Purifying Facial Scrub - $35 -150ml 
"A deep cleansing yet gentle facial polish, formulated with microbeads of Jojoba Oil, that will leave your skin feeling purified, invigorated and smoothed. Removes dead skin cells. Deeply cleanses and purifies. Restores a healthy looking complexion. Cools, freshens." - REN

I used this 2-3 times a week. The beads are really small and gentle on the face, it does not feel harsh. It had a slight peppermint and menthol scent to it, which did not bother me at all. It felt very exfoliating; however, my face had dry patches afterwards. I do not think I will buy this product, it felt and worked the same as my St. Ives apricot scrub.

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Omega 3 Overnight Lipid Renewal Serum- $60 - 50ml
"A night serum that replenishes skin lipids to leave your complexion looking naturally smoother and healthier. Skin looks and feels plumper, healthier, fitter; calms and soothes; encourages the natural process of skin renewal; replenishes the skin’s moisture barrier." - REN

I've used this every night under the Frankincense and Boswellia Serrata Revitalising Night Cream [as recommended on the box]. This product is VERY moisturizing. Just one pump will cover my entire face. It has a pleasant green tea scent to it. It also has a very oily feel to it, I usually wash my hands after applying this on my face. When I wake up in the morning, my face feels renewed and hydrated. I would definitely buy this product again!

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Glycolactic Skin Renewal Peel Mask - $56 - 50ml
"A potent bio active peel mask designed to renew the complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines and dramatically improve skin tone. Skin looks brighter, healthier, more radiant. Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Combats congestion, blackheads and blemishes." - REN

I'm not sure why this product is a "peel mask", you don't peel anything, you rinse it away with warm water. It's a thick paste that smells like dried apricot [not very distinct]. The texture is like honey and oil mixed together. Apply a generous amount to cover your entire face. As it was sitting on my face, I noticed oils and blackheads floating to the surface of my face [weirdest and coolest thing ever]. I did notice a tingling and light burning sensation. At times, I felt like I needed to scratch my face, because it felt itchy...After 10 minutes, you rinse it off with warm water; my face felt so soft and creamy. I noticed my blackheads were gone, my face felt tight, and there was no dried spots. I'm not sure if I will get this again, because of the weird effects. The results, however, are exactly as described!

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Frankincense and Boswellia Serrata Revitalising Night Cream - $55 - 50ml
"A night cream formulated to hydrate, recharge and revitalize the skin overnight leaving it looking radiant, smoothed and beautifully healthy. Improves vitality and radiance; skin feels softer, firmer, smoother; reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles." - REN

 A moisturizing cream that I used over the Omega 3 Overnight Lipid Renewal Serum. These two products combined together works wonders! The night cream smelled like chamomile and mint, a little stronger scent than the other products. My face feels so hydrated in the morning. I actually used this combo during the day one time [when I was off work] and it was great too! No oily face, nor did I have to blot all day. I would purchase this product with the renewal serum.

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Active 7 Radiant Eye Maintenance Gel - $45 - 15ml
"A light and cooling gel to treat, revive and brighten the delicate eye area. Cools and refreshes. Reduces the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. The eye contour looks smoother, firmer." - REN

Luckily I do not have too much dark circles, so I didn't notice too much a difference with this gel. It did feel very cooling and refreshing though.

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The associate at Sephora also gave me a sample of this for my dry and sensitive skin:

Hydra-Calm Cleansing Milk - $32 - 150ml
"For Sensitive Skin - a gentle cleansing milk designed to leave more sensitive or delicate skin purified, fresh, calm and soothed. NB, renamed from Calendula and Arctic Berry Ultracalm Cleansing Milk. Gently removes dirt, pollution and make up; skin feels purified, calm and soothed." - REN

I LOVE this cleanser, it is SO mild. It doesn't have a noticeable scent to it. It's very creamy. You rub it between your palms and then massage it into your face. While rinsing it with warm water, it feels moisturizing. There are absolutely no dry patches after washing my face with this. It definitely lives up to its claims! This is my favorite product from them, and definitely recommend it for people with dry/sensitive skin.

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Care to share your daily face routine? Leave a comment, or a link for me :]

Sephora coupon + new skin care routine?

Hello beauties!

Did you guys get your $15 off $40 purchase from Sephora? I think you only get it from being a Beauty Insider [it is free to sign up]. So my sister and I went to the store to check out what deals we could get. We decided to get our foundation matched. However, I did not end up leaving with a new foundation.

Long story short, my consultant said that my skin IS NOT oily/combination like I had said. She went on to say that it's "extremely dry", and that the reason my skin may appear to be oily was because it wasn't getting enough moisture, so it creates this "oily barrier". Have you heard of such a thing? I always thought that I saw dry patches because it's winter time...  She did sound like she knew what she was talking about. Have any of you experience something like this? To be honest, I felt kinda embarrassed and enlightened at the same time.

I told her all my facial products and cleansers were for oily/combination skin, so she said I needed a new skin care regimen. She recommended the REN Clean Bio Active Skincare - Six Of The Best [$71 value] for $40. I was like, cool, $40! I can use my coupon and got it for $25. I'll try this set out, and keep you guys updated on my "skin conditions".

What did you use your Sephora coupon on?

Olay Regenerist micro-sculpting serum review

I won this Olay Regenerist Advance Anti-aging micro-sculpting serum through Allure's Free Stuff Giveaway in the August issue. When the package came, it was a total surprise to me, because I was never notified. It came in a small little box, and it was packaged nicely. It had a "Congratulations" note in there, which I thought was nice. I was surprised to have won something, because it was usually "First 500 readers to sign up wins...." I remember I would "go to the restroom" while I was at work each hour to just sign up for the contests, lol!

Here's a quick overview and claims from Olay.com:

"Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum penetrates down into skin's surface to deliver our super-concentrated amino-peptide and B3 complex. This fast absorbing, non-greasy formula provides specially designed hydration that softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin's texture. Skin looks brighter, more radiant and significantly firmer after just five days.
Non-Greasy. Fast-Absorbing. Dermatologist Tested. Non-Comedogenic (won't clog pores). Suitable For Normal, Dry and Combination Skin."

Price: $25.99

My thoughts:
I started using this product on Monday, so it's been five days. I've used it day and night to see if it will make my skin look more "brighter, radiant, and firmer". So far, I can see a little bit of a difference :]
It has a very pleasant smell to it, almost like shampoo. I love the fact that it has a pump, it's easy to squirt product out, and makes it so much more sanitary. One pump will cover my entire face. When applied to my face, it absorbs quickly, and does not feel heavy or greasy. It actually makes my face feel soft and velvety. My pores appear smaller. Throughout the day, this product helps me keep my face from oiling up too fast. I can say this for a fact, because when I use a different moisturizer [which I will do the review of later], I start seeing beads of oil on my nose after 3-4 hours, but not with this. This particular product does not have SPF, so I would not recommend it for day time use.

Would I buy it? Yes! I would purchase it for a night time moisturizer.

Oh yes, I wanted to mention that on their website, you can find a $20 rebate if you spend $50 of Olay facial moisturizers, facial treatments and/or facial cleansers. Purchases must be made before January 31, 2011. The drugstores will usually have a sale on these items and there are always coupons in the newspaper.


Let me end with a question for you - What moisturizer do you use? Is there one you can recommend for oily/combination skin? I'm still on the lookout for a good one that contains SPF.