August 30, 2019

Fragrant Friday - Watier by Lise Watier

Watier by Lise Watier - 50ml EDP - $85, 100ml EDP - $115, Body Veil Parfume - 200ml - $52 - an enveloping and unique fragrance with fresh and vibrant top notes of blood orange, pink pepper and bergamot to awaken the senses; a floral heart that reveals sensual hints of night blooming jasmine and turkish rose that interlace with the modern and assertive base notes of vanilla bourbon, sandalwood and musk.
I had a chance to chat with Michelle Defina, the creator and nose of the fragrance whose inspiration for it was to capture the spirit and modernize the ideal of what traditional luxury evokes for women. I was curious as to what it was like to create fragrances some of which wouldn't be to your own taste to which she replied that creating fragrances that you wouldn't wear yourself is part of the job but that it was a real joy to create Watier as it's a fragrance that she loves and would wear herself - I have to agree, it's beautiful and fabulous - sure to be a classic!

Available at Lise Watier counters across Canada and online at lisewatier.com.

- Lisamarie -

August 29, 2019

Easy travels with Ole Henriksen, J.R. Watkins, Lanolips, Carry Clean and Quo!

Whether you are gearing up for vacation, going back to school, stocking essentials to have at work or even hitting the gym - these must-haves are super portable and oh so useful!


Ole Henriksen Balance Babies Mattifying Oil Control Set - $55 - a four-piece skincare set contains: 28g Pore-Balance Facial Sauna Scrub, 30ml Cold Plunge Pore Mask, 65ml Balancing Force Oil Control Toner and 15ml Counter Balance Oil Control Hydrator - to control surface oil and improve the look of pores as well as fight dullness and uneven texture, without stripping skin.

With a pore purifying formula that includes: Green Fusion Complex (Green Tea, Eucalyptus, Algae/Kelp, and Irish Moss Extracts) - helps absorb excess oil and refine the look of pores; Snow Lotus and Alpine Willowherb Extracts - helps nurture and condition skin; and Salicylic Acid (BHA) + Glycolic and Lactic Acids (AHAs) - helps lift and loosen dead skin cells that clog pores.

Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.

J.R. Watkins Aloe & Green Tea Hydrating Face & Body Cleansing Towelettes - 30 pre-moistened towelettes - $7.29 - soothes and calms skin with a 98% natural formula containing olus oils to moisturize while fresh aloe and green tea extracts relax and restore.They also feature a clean, fresh scent of aloe and green tea that refreshes your skin and mood!

Available at well.ca.
Lanolips The Original 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm - 15g - $23 - a multitasking, natural lip balm that locks hydration with the world's best lanolin that holds 200% of its weight in moisture.

Not only is it a great lip balm and base for lip colour, it goes everywhere else too! Apply to dry cuticles, cracked heels, or dry nasal passages. Use it to keep eyebrows in place; on windburn and cold-chapped cheeks; on dry, brittle nails; on paper cuts; or on insect bites. It's also a great beauty booster -  mix a tiny bit with foundation for a natural, dewy look or tap on top around brow and cheek bones to a little glow!
Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.
Carry Clean Dental Travel Pack - $3 - a convenient on-the-go travel kit that includes: a travel toothbrush that stays clean and dry in a ventilated storage handle, Colgate Total Advanced Health Professional Clean Toothpaste and 7 interdental piks.

Available at Walmart stores across Canada and online at walmart.ca.
Quo Minimalist Hanging Foldover Clutch - $24.99 - offers deluxe storage with 2 zippered compartments: 1 large spacious compartment with PVC window and the other with a mesh panel with a velcro, foldover closure and a loop so you can hang it up and free up counter space. The nautical stripes give it the perfect look for travel while the bright red interior lining adds a peppy attitude!

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 28, 2019

Eye Love Wednesday - Quo Tri-Tip Microblading Pen

Quo Tri-Tip Microblading Pen - $14 - in 4 shades: Warm Blonde, Warm Brown, Deep Ash, Cool Brown - for easy, perfectly precise brows that works for any brow shape.

It's easy to use: just shake well and apply to brows in hair like strokes, following the natural brow line until desired look is achieved.

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Hard Candy Glitteratzi Liquid Sparkler!

Hard Candy Glitteratzi Liquid Sparkler - $7.98 - an all-over glitter topcoat in 7 shades: Aurora, Star, Blaze, Confetti, Twinkle, Spark, Galactic - that can be applied to eyes, lips or anywhere you choose to dazzle - create a glitter highlight, glitter eyeliner, use on brows or in the center of lips to add pizazz.

Apply one coat for a sheer layer of sparkle or two coats for full-impact liquid glitter - it's great alone or adds a special something to other makeup!

Available exclusively at Walmart stores across Canada and online at walmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 27, 2019

Add glowing colour with Marcelle Velvety Blush!

Marcelle Velvety Blush - $12.95 - in 6 shades: Dust, Blossom, Natural, Berries, Soft Coral, Pretty Pink - with superfine pigments and a soft, velvety texture for an irresistibly soft and easy-to-blend application and a natural, radiant finish.

Quickly wakes up tired looking skin by adding to the apples of the cheeks, or more dimension, apply a lighter shade to the apples and a darker shade to the hollows of cheeks. I love the Soft Coral shade, universally flattering on pretty much everyone for a soft, healthy glow.

Available at drugstores across Canada and online at marcelle.com.

- Lisamarie -

August 26, 2019

Eliminate dull, lacklustre skin with Eve Lom Radiance Face Oil!

Eve Lom Radiance Face Oil - 30ml - $104 - a powerfully concentrated, yet lightweight, hydrating oil

The formula was developed with a blend of moisturizing hemp seed oil - rich in antioxidant properties and essential fatty acids to moisturize the skin without being greasy; conditioning abyssinian oil - conditions the skin leaving a smooth and supple look as well as helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; avocado oil - packed with essential natural fatty acids to soften and moisturize the skin; amino acid-based emollient - a ceramide-like emollient that moisturizes and improves skin hydration while enhancing skin barrier function; vitamin C - an antioxidant which fights free radicals and helps to even skin tone for a brighter complexion; extract of  paracress - a remodeling active that enhances skin density and firmness; and sunflower seed oil/rosemary leaf extract -  a powerful antioxidant that leaves skin feeling soothed, smoothed and well conditioned.

It feels luxurious on the skin and even smells fancy thanks to the light scent of rose otto oil of Bulgaria!

Available at Murale as well as select Shoppers Drug Mart and Sephora stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 23, 2019

Instant hair nourishment from Wella Invigo Nutri-Enrich!

Wella presents Invigo Nutri-Enrich - perfect for dry or damaged tresses looking for instant nourishment, smoothness and hair full of vitality!

The formula contains panthenol - to provide moisture and nourishment, vitamin E - to protect from further stress; and goji berry - known to be extremely rich in vitamins, minerals and peptides.

I'm a fan of the whole line but have a special place in my heart for:

Nutri-Enrich Wonder Balm - 150ml - $18.50 - with an extra rich, leave-in formula that melts into the hair, penetrating the fiber to provide instant deep nourishment for smoothness, manageability and movement. It's easy to use, just apply to damp hair lenghts and ends and style as usual. As an added bonus it makes my hear smell great too!

Also available in the collection:

Nutri-Enrich Deep Nourishing Shampoo - 250ml - $16.50 - nourishes dry or stressed hair leaving it full of vitality.

Nutri-Enrich Deep Nourishing Conditioner - 250ml - $17.50 - instantly moisturizes dry stressed hair for nourished hair full of vitality.

Nutri-Enrich Deep Nourishing Mask - 150ml - $18.50 - deeply replenishes and moisturizes dry and stressed hair with a nutri-enrich complex.

Nutri Booster - 100ml - $18.50 - revives dry and dull hair into nourished and luscious locks.

Available at professional salons and online at wella.com.

- Lisamarie -

August 22, 2019

Lierac does a body good!

Looking to help combat the effects that a summer's worth of sun, wind, water and sand have had on your skin? Then check out:

Lierac Body-Nutri+ Anti-Dryness Body Lotion - 400ml - $35 - a lightweight, melting and non-sticky lotion for sensitive, dry skin that replenishes lipids and combats dryness while soothing skin and relieving tightness with a forula of 7% urea, safflower oil and shea butter for 48-hour hydration.

Lierac Body-Hydra+ Micropeeling Scrub - 200ml - $33 - resurfaces, smooths and evens out dry, rough, dull skin to leave it 100% renewed. Designed to facilitate massage and make it more comfortable to use thanks to a formula enriched with plant-origin, lipid-rich coco-glucoside, which provides immediate hydration, even after rinsing for skin that looks softer and plumper. It also doesn't hurt that it smells great: orange blossom, gardenia, and frangipani flower release a feminine and addictive fragrance.

Lierac Body-Hydra+ Plumping Milk - 400ml - $35 - with a fresh and ultra-lightweight active texture that forms a mesh on the surface of the epidermis for high-performance and long-lasting hydration and immediately replumped skin. The lotion has a concentrated hydra-plumping complex, which combines the actions of two hyaluronic acids: one provides immediate surface rehydration; while the other is gradually released for a deep-down, long-lasting plumping action for 48-hour rehydration - as well as being enriched with silicon and hibiscus extract, for their toning and smoothing properties.

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at lierac.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 21, 2019

Eye Love Wednesday - Revlon So Fierce Mascara & Vinyl Eyeliner



Revlon So Fierce Mascara - $11.99 - in 3 shades: Blackest Black, Black and Blackened Brown - with a clump free, smudge proof, flake free formula for over-the-top length and volume for the boldest lashes ever.  Infused with a special blend of paraffin and rice bran waxes to  quickly build length and definition while lash lifting polymers extend and magnify with a molded, tapered wand that has 252 multilayered bristles that comb and grip each lash from root to tip for fierce length and dense, lifted eye lashes.

Revlon So Fierce Vinyl Eyeliner - $11.99 - in 6 shades: Midnight Mystery - black, Force of Steel - silvery charcoal, Mighty Mocha - deep chocolate brown, Powerful Plum - black violet, Righteous Rum - burgundy, Royal Blues - cobalt - with long wearing, waterproof gel formula that lasts up to 16 hours and a  pointed tip that makes it easy to create detailed, defined lines for glossy, high-pigment looks.

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Teaology Matcha Fresh Cream!

Hot, sticky and humid weather calls for a moisturizer as refreshing as a sorbet such as:

Teaology Matcha Fresh Cream - 50ml - $49 - a fast-absorbing gel-cream that contains a double hydrating complex which acts to simultaneously top up moisture reserves and maintain a perfect hydrolipidic film with a cocktail of antioxidants, amino acids and peptides to boost the skin’s hydration mechanisms and stimulate its natural defenses.

The formula features a matcha green tea infusion, with exceptional levels of antioxidant catechins - to protect from dryness caused by environmental stressors such as urban pollution; a double-hydrating complex - for 72hr hydration; hyaluronic acid - to moisturize and  plump skin; açai, blackcurrant and ginger extracts - to nourish and revitalize; and green tea extract - to purify.

Available at Murale and select Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques across Canada and online at: beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 20, 2019

Create the perfect custom tinted moisturizer with Shiseido and Joe Fresh!

I'm a big fan of tinted moisturizer in the summer and due to the general lack of fair shades available, have long been used to creating my own which isn't always easy - the texture of both the moisturizer and foundation is important and need to be just right so that they mix together seamlessly to give you that perfect no-makeup look while adding just enough moisture to make skin feel refreshed without feeling heavy or cakey!

During one of my recent experimentations I discovered two products that marry together beautifully:

Shiseido White Lucent Day Emulsion SPF 23 - 50ml - $92 - a dewy brightening moisturizer with a light lotion texture that visibly brightens the skin by improving the appearance of dark spots,  unevenness, dullness, while protecting against UV rays and pollutants and providing all day moisture to improve the appearance dryness and fine lines.

Available at Shiseido counters across Canada.

For a perfect, glowing complexion, I dispense the moisturizer to the back of my hand and mix in a quarter pump of:

Joe Fresh Hydra-Stay Liquid Foundation - 28ml - $16 - in 4 shades: Porcelain, Bisque, Sand and Almond - with an ultra-moisturizing, lightweight tinted formula enriched with argan oil which provides nourishment to the skin and provides medium coverage with a demi-matte finish.

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

August 19, 2019

The 2 best facial cleansing oils that you can't buy (and one you can) from Simple, Neutrogena and Burt's Bees!

there's nothing like a cleansing oil to easily rid the skin of dirt and makeup but as it seems that every beauty product I fall in love with is discontinued - my two favourite and extremely reasonably priced cleansing oils are no exception - if you find them kicking around anywhere I highly recommend you snag them while you can!


Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil - 125ml - $10.99 - with a light-textured gentle, soothing 100% natural grapeseed oil formula enriched with skin-loving vitamins that easily dissolves makeup and deeply cleanses pores without irritation and easily rinses off to leave skin cleansed, hydrated and soft with no greasy finish or sticky residue.

As well, it contains no upsetting colours, dyes or artificial perfumes making it perfect for even sensitive skin.
Neutrogena Ultra Light Cleansing Oil - 133ml - $15.99 - with an ultra-lightweight formula that is a blend of fine oils that act like a magnet to effortlessly and effectively extract oil and impurities from the skin as well as removes make-up, even waterproof mascara without stripping, leaving skin clean and feeling soft with no greasy residue left behind.

Both products seem to have been discontinued in Canada but I am still seeing signs of them in the States so be sure to pick them up on your next cross-border trip!

Or stay closer to home and try out my latest find:

Burt's Bees Cleansing Oil with Coconut & Argan Oils - 177ml - $16.99 - gently removes dirt and makeup and softens skin with a 100% natural formula of a unique blend of natural moisturizers and antioxidant rich ingredients, including coconut and argan oils to help keep skin soft, clean, and beautifully nourished without leaving an oily residue. Best of all, it's dermatologist-tested and contains no parabens, phthalates, petrolatum or SLS.

Available (no, really) for your cleansing pleasure at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

August 16, 2019

Fragrant Friday - Chloé Eau De Parfum

Celebrate 10 years of Chloé and rediscover this beautiful classic with a special rose so integral to the scent:

Chloé Eau De Parfum - 50ml EDP - $122, 75ml EDP - $154 - embodies the timeless beauty of the Chloé rose but is also so different because new facets of its natural scent are enhanced by every ingredient that is combined with it:

Peony, lychee and freesia - highlight its green freshness and fruity side;

white musk - brings out its velvety, powdery notes;

while a lingering amber scent - reveals its sweet, woody undertones.

And of course you can't forget the bottle which embodies the style of the fashion house - with a streamlined allure from the geometric cube which is softened by an oval stopper and romanticgrooves that evoke the Fortuny pleats that is emblematic of the Chloé style.

Available at Hudson's Bay, Jean Coutu, Sephora and Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

August 15, 2019

Roll your troubles away with Avon Pure Roll-On Essential Oils

Avon Roll-On Essential Oil - 10ml - $22 - in 5 Canadian made formulas that are paraben, gluten, phtalate and sulfate-free - to make you feel good naturally:

Take the edge off with De-Stress - the perfect blend of calming and relaxing essential oils that will transport you away from the stresses of everyday life.

Beat that mid-afternoon slump with Energize - a specially crafted scent to help you feel refreshed and energized - like sunshine in a bottle.

Save your aching head with Head-Aid - with a blend used in aromatherapy to help relieve headaches so you can carry on with your day.

Start fresh with Detox - with a fresh and fortifying aroma that will awaken your senses.

Fix where it hurts with Aches Away - with a blend used in aromatherapy to help relieve muscle pain associated with strain.

Just apply the oil directly to the skin in the appropriate area and prepare to feel better!

Available from your Avon rep - 1-800-265-AVON or online at avon.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 14, 2019

Eye Love Wednesday - Rimmel Wonder Wing Eyeliner

Enhancing eyes with a precise wing or flick used to be my ultimate beauty challenge - but no longer thanks to: 

Rimmel Wonder Wing Eyeliner - $9.98 - an innovative felt tip eyeliner that quickly gives a perfect, symmetrical cat’s eye with a  unique applicator.

It's the perfect beauty cheat - use the tip of the pen to line the eyelid with true black colour. Then turn the liner on its side and press the stamp applicator onto the outer corner of the eye… you’re left with the ideal flick that’s symmetrical on both sides. Best of all, the intense, smudge-proof colour lasts all day and night for wonder wings with staying power!

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Burt's Bees Hydrating Sheet Mask!

Burt's Bees Hydrating Sheet Mask - 9.35g - $4.99 - with a 99% natural formula infused with clary sage - to instantly moisturize, balance pH and improve the texture of  skin and extracts from plants and flowers - which  help to promote healthy skin and effectively keeps the skin hydrated, revitalized, and radiant.

It's super easy to use, simply lift the mask from the pouch, apply mask to clean skin, wait 5 to 10 minutes and gently remove - instantly skin feels soft and supple.

Good for all skin types craving some extra moisture, they are dermatologist tested and contain no parabens, phthalates or petrolatum.

Available at drugstores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

August 13, 2019

Get skin that glows with Fresh, Revlon and Nude by Nature!

Fresh FreshFace Instant Glow Luminizer - 30ml - $50 - in 2 universal shades: Starlight - starlit glow and Sunset -  sun-kissed glow - a sheer illuminating cream that imparts a natural-looking “no-makeup” glow to all skin tones while moisturizing for a soft, radiant complexion. Can be worn alone, over makeup or as a highlighter - the lightweight luminizer delivers instant glow to the complexion.

The formula is enriched with moisturizing meadowfoam seed oil; soothing cucumber extract; vitamin C - helps to tone; vitamin E - helps to soften; and evening primrose root extract - helps to keep skin supple and smooth - along with microshimmer particles that create a subtle luster.

Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.
Revlon PhotoReady Rose Glow Hydrating + Illuminating Primer - 30ml - $17.99 -  a water based primer with an ultra-light, fast absorbing formula infused with pearlescent, quartz and hydrating oil beads that preps skin for easy foundation application while boosting skin radiance and leaving it feeling moisturized for up to 24 hours. I especially like the dropper applicator that makes it easy to apply as much or as little product as I want!

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.
Nude by Nature Sheer Light Illuminator - 30ml -  $32 - a versatile, easy-to-use natural formula  with skin calming ingredients that blends flawless over makeup to instantly illuminate the complexion; as a primer to provide luminosity to the skin or mixed into liquids to add a subtle glow.

Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 12, 2019

Renew rough skin with the Artistry Signature Select Polishing Mask!

Artistry Signature Select Polishing Mask - 100g - $40 - for instantly softer, smoother skin with a healthy glow.

With a skin-refining formula and sugar scrub texture that immediately and gently buffs away flaky, dead skin to reveal a smoother, softer, even complexion for skin that looks instantly polished with a healthy, youthful glow.

Containing natural sugar cane crystals - that gently exfoliate dead skin cells to even and refine skin’s texture; nutrilite-sourced black currant extract - which helps boost antioxidant protection; and a light fragrance that blends crisp notes of black currant, red citrus and green florals - so it smells amazing while the purple tint makes it super-fun to use!

The Polishing Mask is part of the mix, match and multi-mask collection that also includes: Purifying Mask - dense french clay with citrus; Hydrating Mask - whipped souffle with green tea; Brightening Mask - silky mousse with white chia seed; and Firming Mask - honey-like gel with pomegranate - to help you target different zones of your face with different masks to treat multiple skin concerns at once!

Available from your Amway rep or online at amway.ca.


- Lisamarie -

August 9, 2019

The Beauty Project by Shoppers Drug Mart and a visit with Erika Jayne!

Tomorrow (Saturday, August 10th) Shoppers Drug Mart will be launching The Beauty Project - an event that encourages Canadians to experiment with new makeup looks by exploring the vast beauty product selection available at Shoppers Drug Mart! What you have to look forward to for the event is: new beauty collections, attending events in-store and discovering all-time favourite beauty picks, including exclusive products. Curated makeup collections that were inspired by seven Canadian influencers will also be launching weekly throughout the duration of the event. Check out your local Shoppers Drug Mart store to see what they have going on!

And to kick things off, come experience The Beauty Project Pop-Up at 950 Queen Street West from Saturday August 10th through to Sunday, August 18th. It's an interactive installation that gives visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of beauty and test out and discover new products and looks and curate their own collections with the help of Shoppers Beauty Pro Team members, along with Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Experts. There will be lots of interactive areas to explore including swatching stations, a fragrance experience, nail station and Masterclasses focusing on popular beauty topics including Get Glowing, Statement Eyes, Modern Classic and Matter Perfection - hosted by Pro Team members.

The Beauty Project Pop-Up is open: Sat, Aug 10 - 11am - 6pm; Sun, Aug 11 - 11am - 5:30pm; Wed, Aug 14 & Thurs, Aug 15 - 3:30pm - 7:30pm; Fri, Aug 16 - 11:30am - 6:30pm; Sat, Aug 17 - 11am - 6pm; Sun, Aug 18 - 11am - 5:30pm.
Photo by: George Pimentel
Erika Jayne of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fame was in Toronto Thursday with her Glam Squad to help kick off the event. As an avid watcher of any and all of the RH franchises, it was hard, but I somehow managed to control myself and not ask her my truly burning questions (Is Lisa VDP as big a scheming bitch as she appears to be on the show or did you ever find out why Dorit has a British accent seeing as she's from Connecticut and all...?) but rather limited myself to beauty related queries.

So in the spirit of The Beauty Project, I made it my mission to find out WWEW (What beauty products Would Erika Wear). Not surprisingly there are several high end ones she uses but there are also a few she loves that even you and I can afford so be sure and check them out the next time you are at Shoppers - they include:

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Multifunction Cream - 75ml - $39 - works as a moisturizer, makeup primer, beauty mask, cleansing milk, aftershave care, after-sun - Erika swears by it as a use anywhere you have dryness cream!

L'Oreal Elnett Satin Volume Extra Strong Hairspray - 400ml - $16.49 - the micro diffuser sprays ultra-fine and disappears at the stroke of a brush, offering strong, clean hold with a dazzling star-worthy shine and a soft satin touch - Erika loves that it adds volume and hold but no stickiness so you can still get a brush through it!

Revlon ColorStay Makeup - 30ml - $20.99 - in 16 shades in comes in normal/dry and combination skin formulas - it features a mess-free pump and SPF 20 protection and offers flawless, longwearing, buildable, full coverage that wears up to 24 hours - Erika doesn't use it on her face though but rather swears by it for the body - she doesn't like to spray tan and prefers this for perfecting legs - even at the beach it stays without budging!

And if Erika wants to e-mail and let me know the answers to my unasked questions that would be great - until then I will imagine that the answers are "Hells yeah!" and "Pretentiousness"...

- Lisamarie -

August 8, 2019

Amp up shower time with St. Ives Shower Foam!

Do your usual body washes feel like they are weighing your skin down during these hot and sticky summer days? Then treat yourself to your lightest wash ever with:

St. Ives Shower Foam - 400ml - $6.99 - a light, airy foam made with 100% naturally sourced extracts in 3 formulas:

Energizing and hydrating Citrus Blend with pink lemon fruit extract for a zesty scent;

Soothing and hydrating Oatmeal & Shea Butter with a warm, comforting scent;

Softening and hydrating Coconut & Orchid with a scent that will take you to the beach.

It's easy to use - just a couple of pumps fills your hands with instant bubbles to smooth all over the body to gently cleanse skin and done!

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

August 7, 2019

Eye Love Wednesday - Vichy Mineral 89 Eyes Repairing Eye Fortifier


If you love your Vichy Mineral 89 Serum then you will be excited to hear that your eyes can now get the same fortifying treatment with a repairing eye booster that prevents and reduces fine lines and dark circles caused by lack of sleep and dehydration:

Vichy Mineral 89 Eyes Repairing Eye Fortifier - 15ml - $34.95 - a daily booster for brighter, stronger skin in the eye contour area with a lightweight, fresh gel texture that protects the delicate skin of the eye contour area while providing 24-hour hydration to smooth fine lines made visible by dehydration and facial expressions as well as reducing dark circles - leaving the eye contour area brighter and the skin smoother.

The formula is made up of only 13 ingredients including:

Mineralizing Thermal Water - rich in 15 minerals, concentrated at 89% for the first time ever;
naturally occurring hyaluronic acid - for moisture and plumping;
pure caffeine - known for its draining and decongesting properties; and
dermo-chlorella - stimulates collagen synthesis and brightens and reduces skin pigmentation in the eye contour area

And even better, it's free from parabens, fragrance, mineral oil, alcohol and colourants.

The important thing to remember about the skin around the eyes is that while this skin is more flexible, it can also be up to 5X thinner than skin elsewhere and is more sensitive to external stressors like UV rays, stress, dehydration, fatigue, tobacco and food, to name a few. How Mineral 89 Eyes helps is by stimulating antioxidant defenses, rebalancing the skin’s pH levels and reinforcing its integrity by stimulating cell regeneration and improving skin’s barrier function and resilience to environmental aggressors - that's a lot of benefits for the few seconds it will take to apply it each day!

Available now at drugstores and online at vichy.ca.

- Lisamarie -

This week I'm obsessed with... Ole Henriksen Hats Off to Bananas Pre-Makeup Skincare Set!

Ole Henriksen Hats Off to Bananas Pre-Makeup Skincare Set - $92 - inspired by banana powder, the set contains a brightening duo that creates a glowing canvas for makeup: 15ml Banana Bright Eye Creme, 30ml Banana Bright Face Primer along with the cutest banana baseball cap that you ever did see!

Great for all skin types, the formula contains: vitamin C - targets visible signs of aging; collagen -  helps improve the look of skin’s youthful elasticity; and banana powder-inspired pigments - to instantly illuminate - which together combat dullness and uneven texture, pores and dryness.

I find the eye cream especially impressive, not only does in instantly blur the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and brighten dull and tired-looking eyes but it also makes for a great eyeshadow base!

Available at Sephora and sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 6, 2019

Conceal your way to flawless skin with Rodial, Nude by Nature and Quo!

Rodial Airbrush Concealer - $44 - in 2 shades: Aspen - fair/medium and Malibu - medium - a wax-base, industry strength camouflage concealer that feels light and natural on the skin but covers all imperfections effortlessly, with high pigmentation coverage that builds from sheer to full, hiding all imperfections effortlessly, to produce a flawless airbrushed finish with a matte effect.
Nude by Nature Perfecting Concealer - $24 - in 8 shades: Ivory, Porcelain Beige, Shell Beige, Rose Beige, Sand, Natural Beige, Latte, Cafe - instantly covers dark circles, disguises puffiness, hyper-pigmentation and blemishes with a creamy, fragrance-free, non-creasing formula enriched with Australian native kakadu plum, vitamin E, jojoba and shea butter - that blends seamlessly to offer coverage while helping improve skin radiance.
Quo Cushion Concealer - $16 - in 3 shades: 1 - light, 2 - medium, 3 - dark - with a lightweight formula that blurs imperfections as it conceals, delivering sheer coverage with a natural finish - featuring a clever cushion end for easy application and blending.

All products available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 5, 2019

Get skin that glows with Korres and SkinCeuticals!

Korres Wild Rose 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum - 30ml - $99 - a powerful brightening bi-phase serum that reduces the appearance of dark spots, dullness and skin discolorations to uncover  luminous skin.

With a unique formula that has two phases to maximize the results: the top oil phase is comprised of wild rose oil with 15% vitamin C for the ultimate in brightening and evening skin tone for a smooth, radiant complexion; the bottom water phase is a powerful brightening complex made with natural ingredients to minimize the appearance of skin discolorations. Along with additional natural ingredients such as vitamin C, provitamin B5, bisabolol and ginger root extract are also included for their antioxidant protection and ability to hydrate all skin types.

It's also great for what it doesn't contain - no synthetic fragrances or colour - just a light rose scent that is derived from wild rose extract; petrolatum, mineral oil, silicones, parabens, propylene glycol, or ethanolamine.

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

The most important things to remember when using: before applying, shake well to mix the two phases together; and as with all brightening products applied during the day, sunscreen is a must!

My choice for a super-light, protective, top layer:
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 - 50ml - $46 - provides high broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with all natural physical filters, zinc oxize and titanium dioxide - in an ultra-sheer, mattifying fluid that's suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

It's alsoinfused with translucent colour spheres meant to enhance your natural skin tone. And unlike most products that do this universal colour thing that always ends making fair skin look muddy, this one actually does adjust to my shade and blends right in!

Available via dispensing doctors, medical spas and high-end spas - check out www.skinceuticals.com/canada. for more info and where to buy.

- Lisamarie -

August 2, 2019

Fight summer dryness and frizz with OGX Replenishing + Water Drops!

If summer is doing a number on your dry, frizzy, fine hair (like it is on mine) you need some OGX Replenishing + Water Drops in your life! Containing healing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and everlasting flower water, this collection locks in moisture, detangles and softens strands while adding shine.

Choose your hydration without the heft from:

OGX Replenishing +Water Drops 8-in-1 Mist - 200ml - $10.99 - a lightweight spray blended with hyaluronic acid and everlasting flower water to condition, protect, detangle, smooth, soften, strengthen and reduce frizz for smooth and quenched strands. To use: spray on damp hair from root to tip before trying to detangle, to add shine and defined natural style.

OGX Replenishing + Water Cream Hydrating Treatment - 177ml - $10.99 - a moisture-boosting treatment that saturates hair with skincare-worthy hydration with a blend of hyaluronic acid and everlasting flower water to add shine and moisture to dry locks. To use: apply to damp hair for maximum effect; start with two to three pumps, depending on hair length and spread product through strands and evenly distribute with comb.

OGX Replenishing + Water Balm Leave-in Mask - 195g - $10.99 - a weightless, nourishing leave-in treatment blended with hyaluronic acid and everlasting flower water that helps to detangle and soften for smooth and quenched strands. To use: apply to damp hair, focusing on ends and style as usual. Or apply a tiny bit to dry hair for additional hydration and smoothing benefits.

And as an added bonus, the products all smell like a day at the beach!

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

August 1, 2019

Test Driving - SensatioNail Express Gel One Step Polish Manicure Kit

I'm sure you already know all about at home gel manicures but did you also know you can use the same technology on your toes? I guess I did in theory but I've never actually tried it... I balk at gel manicures because I like to change my polish colour too often to make it practical but I am so bad about regular pedicures that my toes are always a chipped mess that this solution should have been obvious to me - well it is now!


SensatioNail Express Gel One Step Polish Manicure Kit - $64.99 - a simple one-step home use professional quality gel system that contains color gel polish in Made Him Blush or Red Your Profile, manicure stick, double sided nail buffer and LED lamp for the latest innovation in gel manicure technology with no dry time, dulling or fading - just long lasting, chip free, high-shine nails for up to 10 days.

What's great about it is how easy it is to you - just apply a thin coat of the Express Gel polish and cure under the lamp for 30 seconds - rinse and repeat - that's it - no need for primer, base coat, top coat or cleansing!

I'm not going to show you pictures of the finished product, I fear that pictures of my feet are just going to bring me the wrong kind of followers... So imagine my perfect pedicure and let me just assure you that the application was super simple, it took about 20 minutes from start to finish and I've had it on for 8 days now and it still looks perfect except for one tiny chip that just appeared. The only advice I will offer that differs from what the product advises is that even though the instructions say to stay for 30 seconds under the nail lamp you will want to experiment a bit - 30 seconds seemed to be good timing with a thin coat of the light shade but if you have a heavier hand with the polish or are using a darker colour you might need to cure for longer - more like 45-60 seconds.

It's also possible to buy the LED lamp and Express Gel colours separately so if you don't love the two shade options that come in the kits there are tons of polish options out there to choose from!

Available at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

And of course don't forget the prep work - the better it is, the longer your manicure/pedicure will last! I find a dry application works better so I do my prep the night before. First I soak my hands and/or feet in lukewarm water with either Dr. Teal's Pure Epsom Salt with Lavender or LUSH Foot Soak and Fancy Free, then I attack calluses and rough skin with a Trim Pumice Stone Foot Brush and push back my cuticles with a Quo Cuticle Pusher. Lastly, I liberally apply an ultra rich moisturizer - like L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand or Foot Cream - if my hands or feet are really dry I'll add extra cream and wear cotton gloves and socks to bed - and tada! Wake up to perfectly prepped hands and feet!

- Lisamarie -