December 15, 2021

Test Driving - Beverly Hills MD Activated Retinol Night Treatment

There's something new in my medicine cabinet that is bringing a whole new meaning to beauty sleep:

Beverly Hills MD Activated Retinol Overnight Treatment - 30ml - $96 - works hard while you are getting your zzzz's by accelerating cell turnover so skin looks more even and feels smoother; helps reduce the appearance of sun damage and discolouration; corrects the appearance of deep wrinkles, while giving skin a tighter look; and infuses dull skin with revitalizing actives to help you wake up with a vibrant youthful glow.
 
Formulated with a high-potency blend of microencapsulated retinol - a revolutionary ultra-penetrative ingredient that targets signs of aging more effectively than ordinary retinol, yet is specially formulated to work without drying or irritating the skin’s surface; and skin-renewing peptides including: Ceramide NP - a powerful lipid blend that supports the skin’s protective barrier; Botanimoist AMS - a naturally-derived saccharide complex that’s shown to increase skin hydration by an astonishing 88%; and Avena Sativa Kernel Extract - helps soothe, nourish, and moisturize aging skin, for a visibly healthier, more youthful appearance. 
 
Of course seeing is believing so I have been putting it to the test for the past 30 days. Right away I was a fan of the texture. I tend to wear serums at night because I just don't like how creams feel - like my skin is being smothered. This however is a lovely gel - not the sticky kind either, but a soft, smooth gel with a nice light scent that sinks right into the skin. I started feeling the softness benefits right away - my skin was super smooth the very first morning! And I was a little concerned about the whole retinol thing as my sensitive skin has had some bad experiences with it in the past, but the encapsulation really does work to keep it from being irritating and doing the bad things that regular retinol can do. I can say with total certainty that after 30 days my skin looks, brighter, smoother and dare I say younger - I'm a fan! Just keep in mind that retinol does not react well with sunlight so only wear this at night and make sure you wear your sunscreen during the day!
 
 
- Lisamarie -

December 10, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Shoppers Drug Mart Fragrance Discovery Sets

Looking for the perfect gift for the fragrance lover in your life? Rather then trying to guess what scent they would want, let them choose the one they would love!

Women's Fragrance Discovery Collection for Her - $95 -  includes 12 vials from a variety of brands: Giorgio Armani Terra Di Gioia Eau de Parfum; Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Eau de Parfum; Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Parfum ; Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau de Toilette; Lancome La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum; Lancome Idole Eau de Parfum; Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Eau de Parfum; Marc Jacobs Daisy Love Eau de Toilette ; Burberry Her Eau de Parfum; Azzaro Wanted Girl by Night Eau de Parfum; Valentino Voce Viva Eau de Parfum; Carolina Herrera Good Girl Supreme Eau de Parfum  - try them all, decide which one you like the best and redeem the enclosed certificate for a full-size bottle.
 
Women's Fragrance Discovery Collection Luxe for Her - $115 - includes a collection of 7 miniature bottles from a variety of brands: Jimmy Choo, I Want Choo Eau de Parfum; Marc Jacobs Perfect Eau de Parfum; Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau de Parfum; Giorgio Armani My Way Eau de Parfum; Versace Bright Crystal Eau de Toilette; Chloe, Chloe Eau de Parfum; Oscar de la Renta Bella Blanca Eau de Parfum - try them all and then use the enclosed certificate to redeem for a full-size bottle of your favourite from this set.
 
And if your fragrance lover is a man - no worries, they have sets for him too!
 
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

December 1, 2021

Great Gifting - Fruits & Passion Cucina Hand Care Duos

Looking for a gift that would be great for pretty much anyone? We all have hands so anyone could appreciate and  use:
 
Fruits & Passion Cucina Hand Care Duo - $22 - includes 200ml Hand Soap with Olive Oil and 60ml Nourishing Hand Butter - the biodegradable hand soap gently cleanses hands and the nourishing hand butter, enriched with three olive tree extracts, moisturizes and protects them. In three scents:
 
Coriander & Olive Tree -  a delicate blend of coriander seeds and olive wood for a sophisticated fragrance that is both aromatic and slightly woody. 
 
Lime Zest & Cypress - tangy lime zest and woody cypress notes make for a dazzlingly fresh, sunny fragrance. 

Sea Salt & Amalfi Lemon - with gentle and tangy fragrance that combines the sparkling notes of Amalfi lemon with delicate sea salt.

Available at Fruits & Passions stores across Canada and online at avon.ca.

- Lisamarie -

November 24, 2021

Stuff your stocking with tiny treasures from the Quo Beauty Holiday Collection!

The Quo Beauty Holiday Collection is back with so many wonderful things, it will be hard to decide what to get! Included in the collection are plenty of pint sized products perfect for stuffing the stocking of the beauty lover in your life (and make sure when you shop it's one for them and one for yourself!) Here are my stocking sized faves:
 
Quo Beauty Pout Perfection Lipstick Set - $25 - a dazzling set of 4 must-have matte lipsticks. Smooth, bold colour with comfortable wear and light to bold shades that will take you from morning to night.
Quo Beauty Eyeshadow Palette - $25 - create endless holiday eye looks with palette of 12 luxurious matte and shimmer eyeshadow shades with smooth, blendable textures.
Quo Beauty Euphoric Holiday Brush Set -$18 - touch up your makeup on-the-go with a collection of four limited edition brushes and a shiny pouch to hold all your essentials. With easy to clean 100% synthetic fibers, the set contains: Powder Brush, Eye Cream Brush, All-Over Shadow Brush, Liner Brush and a pouch.
Quo Beauty Let It Glow Skincare Set - $25 - a 3-piece travel-size set that will keep skin in tip-top condition for every holiday celebration this season! Set includes: Hydrating Facial Serum - formulated with hyaluronic acid; Banana Cleansing Balm - formulated with banana extract to help melt away make-up and moisturize thirsty skin; and Purifying Glow Mask - formulated with Bentonite, Kaolin Clay to help clarify and calm the skin.
Quo Beauty All Dolled Up Fluffy Bowtie Headband - $12 - an adorable way to keep hair out of the way while cleansing, masking, applying make-up or whatever. And of course it's pink and fluffy - two of my favourite things in life!
 
Get them while you can - they are limited edition and always go fast - available at Shoppers Drug Mart Stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

November 17, 2021

Great Gifting - Christophe Robin Holiday Gift Sets

Amazing hair care products in beautiful botanical packaging always makes for the perfect gift:
 
Christophe Robin Hair Detox Ritual - $75 - the complete detox regimen to achieve a rebalance, detoxified, soothed scalp and moisturized lengths including 250ml Cleansing Purifying Scrub, 75ml Purifying Conditioner Gelee and 75ml Purifying Shampoo.
 
Christophe Robin Dreamy Volume Ritual - $82 - The complete ritual to bring body and natural volume from roots and fuller lengths with 250ml Cleaning Volumising Paste, 75ml Delicate Volumising Conditioner and 50ml Instant Volume Leave-In Mist.
 
Christophe Robin Intense Hydration Ritual - $70 - a complete ritual offering a pure hydration show for plumped-looking, pleasantly light, silky and shiny hair that includes a 250ml Hydrating Shampoo, 75ml Hydrating Melting Mask and 50ml Hydrating Leave-In Mist.
 
Christophe Robin Luscious Curls Ritual - $77 - includes a complete ritual formulated for very curly to coily hair including a 250ml Luscious Curl Cleansing Balm and 150ml Luscious Curl Defining Butter - to nourish and define the driest, most brittle hair for bouncy, touchable and frizz-free curls.
 
Christophe Robin Mini Volume Duo  - $24 - the perfect ritual to bring natural volume from the roots and fuller lengths with a 40ml Cleansing Volume Paste and 75ml Delicate Volumising Conditioner. 
 
If you have fine, flat or limp hair I highly recommend the Volumising products - not only do they add lift to lifeless hair, the subtle rose scent is beautiful! I especially love the Cleansing Paste which has a really fun clay texture that turns into a foam and cleans without stripping!

Available at Hudson's Bay stores across Canada and online at thebay.com and christopherobin.ca.

- Lisamarie -

November 10, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... Satya Organic The One Stick Multi-Use Balm!

Satya Organic The One Stick - 30ml - $29 - a fragrance-free, multi-use balm in an easy twist stick  that gently soothes and hydrates a multitude of skin issues including: eczema; dry and/or flaky skin; rough or bumpy patches; dry cuticles; chapped lips; flaky bows and eyelids; itching and/or redness due to dryness. It also makes a great after-care product for sun exposure; bug bites; tattoos; shaving and skin friction.
 
The signature five-ingredient formula uses only certified organic ingredients: calendula petals; cold-pressed sweet almond oil; beeswax; cold-pressed jojoba; and gluten-free colloidal oatmeal. And no steroids, parabens, gluten, fragrance or petochemicals.

This is the perfect time of year to have this in your purse or pocket - the change in weather means dry everything - from lips to heels - and in a pinch, is even great on split ends!

Available at retailers across Canada including Sobeys, Hudson's Bay, Indigo and Whole Foods or online at satya.ca.

- Lisamarie -

November 3, 2021

Great Gifting - Barefoot Venus Mustard Bath

Sometimes you can judge a book by it's cover - or at least your bath products by the very pretty packaging it comes in...

Barefoot Venus Mustard Bath - 480g - $22 - with a 100% all natural therapeutic formula containing mustard seed powder - increases circulation, opens pores, stimulates sweat glands and helps draw impurities from the skin; eucalyptus leaf oil - an excellent antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and decongestant; and chamomile flowers - used as a mild sedative, with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties - just run a hot bath, add the mustard bath, inhale and relax!

The idea of mustard bath was kind of strange to me and I was expecting to be bathing in something that smelled reminiscent of a bottle of French's but it was nothing like that! True the powder is definitely a mustard yellow colour that adds a yellow tinge to the bathwater but the scent is heavenly - and if you have sore muscles or stuffed sinuses they will especially thank you for this stuff!

Almost as good as what's inside is the container itself - so pretty you will want to prominently display it and gift it to every bathing beauty you know!

Also comes in a refill 1kg bag size for $31 and a 90g one use size perfect for travel for $7.

Available at Hudson's Bay stores across Canada and online at ca.barefootvenus.com and well.ca.

- Lisamarie -

October 27, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... The Knot Dr. for Conair All-in-One Smoothing Dryer Brush!

The world's best hair-detangling technology is now available in a hot air brush:
 
The Knot Dr. for Conair All-in-One Smoothing Dryer Brush - $79.99 - straightens and smooths dry hair or dries and styles wet hair - all in one easy step. The paddle brush features  silicone cushioning under 136 flexalite bristles - which is just the right number, spaced just the right way - with epoxy tips that gently massage scalp for painless detangling.
 
With 900 watts of advanced ionic conditioning that includes a powerful, high-voltage ion generator that flattens and seals the hair cuticle, leaving hair silky smooth and frizz free. It has 3 heat settings, making it great for all hair types and lengths, as well as a cool shot setting to lock in style and a 6' professional swivel cord that makes it easy to use without getting all tangled up!

Available at stores across Canada and online at amazon.ca.

- Lisamarie -

October 20, 2021

3 items I love from the Quo Beauty Halloween collection (and will want to use all year round)!

Love the drama of Halloween makeup but hate spending money on something that you will only use for one night?! Fear not, Quo Beauty is here with a collection that you will be reaching for all year round and I have a top 3 fave from it:
 
Quo Beauty Limited Edition Gold Glitter Drops - $12 - add a sparkly finish to cheekbones, collarbones or an all-over face glow - post Halloween you will still need the glow, just use more sparingly! I would love it regardless just for the wonderful skull container - you will need to go in-store for this one, it's already sold out online!
Quo Beauty Eyeshadow Palette in Sweet as Honey - $25 - with lots of metallic shades to use liberally for a glittering Halloween eye look or deep shades for extra drama - post Halloween these shades will make for a beautiful wash of colour with the deeper colours adding the perfect pop of colour to the crease or as a liner!
Quo Beauty Lip Contour Pencil in Red Wine - $12 - perfect for lining in preparation for for deep Halloween lipstick and creepy blood effects - post Halloween I plan to use lightly all over my lips, blend in with my finger and top with a layer of lipbalm for a flush of colour that just won't budge (even under masks)!
While you are at the store, check out the Quo Beauty Fall Collection - with a couple of lovely eyeshadow palettes, a face palette, some quick drying nail polishes and my fave:
 
Quo Beauty Liquid Lipstick in Cashmere Scarf - $12 - a creamy liquid lipstick with lots of wonderful pigment in a nude shade that is your lips but better!

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

- Lisamarie -

October 13, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... Pixi + Louise Roe Cream Rouge Palette!

I haven't had a lot to say about lipstick for the past 18 months because really, where was I going to wear it? But now that the world is getting out again my lips need to look great (when they aren't covered by a mask of course) and what better way to jump back into the world of lipcolour then with choices - so many choices...
 
Pixi + Louise Roe Cream Rouge Palette - $28 - a flattering palette of creamy hues curated and created by Louise Roe with a multi-use formula can be used on lips solo, mixed to create a custom colour or even dabbed onto cheeks for a fast pick me up to the complexion as well!
 
Anything that makes me feel like a chemist is always appealing to me and this palette just screams out for me to mix colours together and experiment - as a bonus, the inside lid is perfect for mixing!
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

October 6, 2021

Fake summer well into fall with Conair, Indeed and Essence!

For the perfect day-at-the-beach waves:
 
Conair Triple Barrel Waver - $49.99 - with a triple barrel that creates continuous, uniform deep waves, while the double ceramic technology delivers even heat for fast styling and long-lasting results. It's great for every hair type thanks to the 30 heat settings along with turbo heat that gives a 27°F burst of heat for difficult-to-style spots.
 
I have covid to thank for actually having enough hair to try something like this out. I have fine hair but a lot of it and in the past have found hair tools complicated that end up being useless because my hair just does not want to hold a curl. Curls may be a no but waves are a big yes - not only was it so easy to use, but the waves it adds are gorgeous and just last and last! I use the waver and then spray in a little  salt spray to give it a bit of texture and I look just like a mermaid (well a mermaid with clothes)!

Available at mass retailers and Trade Secrets stores across Canada and online at amazon.ca.
Get a sun-kissed look sans sun:
 
Indeed Nanobronze Bronzing Drops - 30ml - $24.95 - instantly bronzes, blurs, and hydrates skin with a tinted serum that combats dullness and provides an immediate and long-lasting bronzy glow that conceals imperfections and enhances natural beauty. The formula contains pea extracts - with proven tan enhancement effects; giant kelp extract - to protect skin against harmful daily stressors; cacao (cocoa) seed extract - to boost skin’s defenses against blue light; and hyaluronic acid - to hydrate skin for a full, plump, and glowing complexion. 
 
Suitable for all skin types and complexions, they can be blended with your serum or moisturizer for a light glow or used alone to intensify the colour - use it on your face, chest, legs or wherever you want/need some liquid sunshine!

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at indeedlabs.com.
Get a daily dose of energy (and glow) for your eyelids:
 
Essence Daily Dose Of Energy Eyeshadow Palette - $8.99 - a warm toned eyeshadow palette with a paraben, fragrance, alcohol and oil free formula featuring 9 shades and finishes ranging from matte to metallic that are highly pigmented and perfect for creating a multitude of looks while the compact size makes the palette perfect to take anywhere for travel or touch-ups. It also has that crazy red shade that everyone seems to be wearing so if you've been thinking about experimenting, here's your chance!
 
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

September 29, 2021

Feed your skin the ingredients it's been craving with serums from Antipodes, StriVectin and Avon Isa Knox!

Already losing your  summer glow? Get it back in a hurry with a nice big dose of vitamin C to help protect and illuminate for skin that looks radiant and full of life.:

Antipodes Glow Ritual Vitamin C Serum - 30ml - $62 - a light-wear brightening gel serum that offers luminous, dewy skin and protection from environmental damage. With an ultra-clean, 100% natural origin formula with its star ingredient Kakadu plum - which contains up to 100x the Vitamin C of oranges - helping to illuminate and protect from free radical damage; along with Vinanza Grape & Kiwi - to address pigmentation, help brighten skin, and protect against oxidative stress; Bakuchiol -  a gentle and natural retinol alternative, encourages smoother, firmer looking skin; and plant-based hyaluronic acid - boosts moisture for a plumped visage. Suited to all skin types and especially beneficial to help perk up dull skin.

Available at online retailers across Canada including well.ca.
Add some vitamin B3 to your skin to help restore super strength:
 
StriVectin Multi-Action Super-B Barrier Strengthening Oil - 30ml - $79 - a dual-focus treatment oil that nourishes dry, dull skin and helps to prevent moisture loss for an even, glowing complexion. Calms dry skin and reduces the appearance of redness for even-toned skin while restoring a visibly healthy, glowing complexion that supports the microbiome and skin barrier to target visible signs of aging and dry, dull, cranky skin. With a formula containing potent prebiotics sourced from French Hot Springs to help balance the microbiome while NIA-114 - a patented form of Niacin/Vitamin B3 strengthens the skin barrier. 
 
Available at stores across Canada including Shoppers Drug Mart and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.
 
Hibiscus flowers don't just smell good they also offer your skin lots of firming good:
 
Avon Isa Know LXNEW Platinum Sculpting Oil Serum - 40ml - $80 - a organic hibiscus extract infused serum with encapsulated violet droplets that help to deliver firming and plumping ingredients, collagen-boosting peptides and rejuvenating antioxidants to help visibly smooth wrinkles and tighten facial contours for a firmer, smoother, more lifted look in just one week.

Part of the new collection that helps to recapture the look of youthful contours that also includes: Sculpting Day Cream - 50ml - $70; Sculpting Night Cream - 50ml - $70; Sculpting Eye Cream - 25ml - $70 or try them all with the Special Trial Kit that includes 15ml Day and Night creams; 7ml Oil Serum; and 5ml Eye Cream - all for $46!

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

September 24, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Paco Rabanne Phantom

Introducing a feel-good perfume that boosts your sexiness, confidence, and energy: 
 
Paco Rabanne Phantom 150ml EDT - $148, 100ml EDT - $125, 80ml EDT - $92, 200ml EDT Refill - $154, 150ml Shower Gel - $42, 75ml Deodorant Stick - $32 - a futuristic aromatic fragrance born from the clash between luxury craftsmanship and new-tech with top notes of zesty lemon peel oil from Italy, "vintage" molecule styrallyl acetate and lavander oil; heart notes of lavandin heart, patchouli heart, smokey earthy accord and apple; and base notes of vetiver heart, lavandin absolute and vanilla absolute.

And while this might technically be for men, I would (and do) totally wear this - it has a smoothness to it that doesn't feel masculine or feminine - it just is... not to mention the adorable robot bottle and a commercial that is like the best acid trip you have ever been on!
 
 
Available now at Hudson's Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart and Jean Coutu stores across Canada. 

- Lisamarie -

September 15, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... Teaology Infusion Serums!

Whether it is anti-anging, hydrating or brightening you are after - Teaology has a serum for that in their collection of Infusion Serums:
 
Peptide Infusion Anti-Aging Serum - 15ml - $33 - a rich and velvety serum that contains the optimal peptides concentration to improve the elasticity of the skin and stimulate the synthesis of collagen. Used every day the results are visible: the wrinkles are relaxed and the face regains a more toned and bright appearance. 
 
Hyaluronic Infusion Hydrating Serum - 15ml - $33 - a rich and silky serum that contains the optimal concentration of hyaluronic acid at low, medium and high molecular weight to instantly moisturize all layers of the epidermis. Used regularly, it leaves the face compact and rejuvenated, while wrinkles are progressively smoothed.
 
Vitamin C Infusion Brightening Serum - 15ml - $33 - a mild and impalpable serum that contains the optimal dosage of vitamin C in one of its most stable forms. Vitamin C is the molecule of youth because it protects the skin from oxidative damage, from photo-aging and stimulates the synthesis of collagen. From the first applications the result is visible: the skin is compact, smooth and the face shines with light.
 
And of course there is no reason that you can't alternate 2 different formulas or even all 3 to suit the ever-changing needs of your skin on alternating days or even at the same time on different parts of your skin!
 
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart and Hudson's Bay stores across Canada and online at teaologyskincare.ca.
 
Wish you could try them all at a lower price? You can! Right now if you buy them online at the Teaology website they are offering a Serum Infusion trio with all 3 serums for $75!
 
- Lisamarie -

September 10, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Avon Rare Intense Fragrances

Add some indulgent scent to your fall with three Rare Intense fragrances from Avon:
 
Rare Platinum Intense - 50ml EDP - $45, Luxury Body Wash - 200ml - $30, Luxury Body Creme - 150ml - $33 - an unforgettably confident fragrance with notes of iris, warm ambrette and smooth vetiver that immerses you in dreamy luxury.

Rare Pearls Intense - 50ml EDP - $45 - a warm and dreamy fragrance with a potent, luminous blend of shimmering magnolia, white pepper and creamy rosewood.

Rare Gold Intense - 50ml EDP - $45 - a warm and indulgent fragrance that envelops you in the warmth of pure gold with opulent notes of mandarin zest, ylang-ylang and golden amber.

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

- Lisamarie -

September 8, 2021

Shoppers Drug Mart glowing skin must haves from Dr Roebuck's, Versed and No7!

Dr Roebuck's No Worries Hydrating Face Moisturizer - 50ml - $60 - a silicone-free, non-comedogenic daily moisturizer formulated with: hyaluronic acid - an anti-aging active that smooths and plumps skin, helping to retain moisture and aid in decreasing the appearance of fine lines; macadamia oil - an essential fatty acid that works to heal, nourish and hydrate the skin; and rosehip oil - a vitamin and antioxidant rich skin protectant. 
 
Part of The Thoughtful Choices at Shoppers Drug Mart lineup, curated to help make it easier for you to shop consciously for products that are cruelty-free as well as paraben, phthalate, SLS/SLES, formaldehyde, BPA and aluminum salts-free; and mindful of our planet.
Versed Weekend Glow Brightening Solution
- 120ml - $24.99 - a powerful brightening toner for dark spots and post-acne marks. With an exfoliating formula that includes a four-acid complex of lactic, glycolic, azelaic, and kojic acid; along with bearberry extract and vitamin C to deliver a glowier complexion without any of the tingle. Also part of the The Thoughtful Choices at Shoppers Drug Mart lineup.
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream
- 50ml - $29 - a multi-tasking night cream that targets the three key signs of aging: reducing wrinkles; firming skin; and evening skin tone - while sleeping, nourishing and restoring skin's moisture overnight. In just 2 weeks, wrinkles are reduced, skin appears lifted and firmed, while the unique lightening complex helps to fade stubborn pigmentation and dark spots for a more even skin tone. After 3 weeks, you will awaken to rested, more radiant and healthy-looking skin.  
 
All available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

- Lisamarie -

September 3, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Caroline Herrera Very Good Girl

Caroline Herrera Very Good Girl - 50ml EDP Natural Spray - $168, 50ml EDP Natural Spray - $130, 10ml EDP RollerBall - $42 (sephora.ca exclusive) - a seductive fruity floral fragrance inspired by the duality of a modern woman: with top notes of playfully mischievous red currant and exotic lychee; a seductive heart of rose; and base notes of vetiver and warm vanilla to provide a surprising and modern finish.
 
Of course it wouldn't be Good Girl without the glamorously sexy stiletto-shaped bottle - this one featuring red-lacquered interior and impossibly high gold heel. The scent is just as sexy - a little sweet, a little fruity, a little rosy and a lot awesome - it will make you feel like a total vixen  - or as Carolina would say - "It's so good to be bad"!
 
Available at Hudson's Day, Shoppers Drug Mart, Nordstrom, Sephora and Jean Coutu stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

September 1, 2021

Enjoy the sun and a great read this long weekend with Blue Lizard, Physiogel and Behind The Read Door by Louise Claire Johnson!

The last long weekend of the summer is the best time to soak up the last of the summer sun and relax with a good book (and a cocktail)!

Enjoy the sunshine but don't forget to protect yourself from it with:
 
Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF50 - 89ml - $14.99 - offers head-to-toe sun protection with a zinc oxide based mineral formula that provides broad spectrum protection from 97% of the sun’s burning rays. Great for sensitive skin as it contains no skin-irritating chemical sunscreen ingredients, no parabens and no fragrances and is made without oxybenzone or octinoxate to help protect fragile reef ecosystems and is water resistant up to 80 minutes. The bottle also acts as a great reminder to reapply - the cap turns blue in harmful UV light! It also comes in a Baby formula that I love - it's even gentler!

Available online at well.ca and amazon.ca.
When your sun worship is over be sure to moisturize - your skin will thank you - and using a regular moisturizer for sensitive skin is way more effective then the typical after-sun lotions - I particularly like:
 
Physiogel Calming Relief A.I. Lotion - 200ml - $59 - offers triple, long-lasting relief from dryness, itchiness and irritation for all sensitive skin (even babies) with an advanced hypoallergenic formula containing skin-soothing essential lipids and B that is free from fragrances, preservatives and colourants - to soothe and protect dry, irritated skin.

Can be used on face or body and also comes in a cream formula if you prefer a thicker texture - Physiogel Calming A.I. Cream - 100ml - $59.
 
Available from your Avon rep - 1-800-265-AVON or online at www.avon.ca

 
The perfect book to go along with a weekend of horizontal activity:
 
Behind The Red Door - How Elizabeth Arden's Legacy Inspired My Comping-of-Age Story in the Beauty Industry - Louse Claire Johnson - $38 - there aren't a lot of books that I sit down to read and can't put down until it's done, but this is one of them! A unique blend of biography and memoir, it's about two women a hundred years apart, and follows both women as they turn themselves into the success stories they once dreamed of becoming. Historical and modern all at the same time with lots of behind the scenes looks at the beauty industry - this was right up my alley. It's a great weekend read and see if it doesn't leave you satisfied and inspired!
 
Available at bookstores across Canada and online at indigo.chapters.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

August 25, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... Fruits & Passion Alo Bonus Size Shower Gel!

There's even more to love now from Fruits & Passion with their Alo Shower Gels available now in a giant bonus size!
 
Fruits & Passion Alo Shower Gel - 950ml - $19.99 - in 3 delicious scents: 
 
Orange Cantaloupe 
Grapefruit Guava
Ocean Flower

With a biodegradable formula enriched with vitamins E & B5 to antioxidize and hydrate, leaving skin feeling soft, smooth and delightfully scented.
 
They smell great, lather like a dream and best of all, come in a pump bottle - truly a necessity with a bottle this big!

Available at Fruits & Passion stores across Canada and online at fruits-passion.com and avon.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 20, 2021

Follow your Bliss to amazing skin!

Bliss holds a special place in my heart - a zillion years ago when Sephora first opened their first Canadian store in Toronto my very first purchase was a pair of Bliss Glamour Gloves (I still have them!) and I continued to buy and love their products ever since - well almost ever since... some years ago the products became harder to come by here - but no longer - Bliss has arrived in Canada and you can now find it at Shoppers Drug Mart!
 
Now that I can Bliss to my heart's content I've been on a mission to try everything out and see what I like best and have come up a top 3 fave list:
 
Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum - 130ml - $19.99 - a game-changing treatment, clinically proven to deliver clear, calm skin in 14 days by combining the benefits of a toner with all the joys of a serum to purify pores, tone skin and deliver concentrated ingredients for ultimate clarity without over-drying or irritating skin. Powered a proprietary CLARITY 5 COMPLEX containing BHA (salicylic acid), witch hazel water, niacinamide, zinc PCA & cica. Masking has been giving me some issues that I thought were behind me in my non-teenage years - and this has sorted things right out and so quickly too without giving me the dry patches that I usually suffer from when I use stronger ingredients - yea!
 
Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C + Tri-Peptide Collagen Protecting Serum - 30ml - $32.99 - this collagen-protecting and brightening serum boosts brightness and elasticity in one use with a high concentration of the most effective, non-irritating form of clinical-grade vitamin C plus tri-peptide to brighten, diminish the look of dark spots and visibly firm skin. I am super-obsessed with vitamin C these days and love that this one comes in serum form that absorbs quickly making it easy to layer and with none of weird smells that some vitamin C products have!
 
Bliss Incredi-peel 10% Glycolic Acid Spa-Strength Resurfacing Peel - 15 facial treatments - $29.99 -with a spa-strength formula that gradually releases the 10% glycolic acid formula overnight to target fine lines, discoloration and imperfections for smoother, brighter skin by morning. Also great for travel (if we can ever do that again) thanks to the convenient, single-step, no-rinse peel pads that are individually packaged.
 
Bliss also goes above and beyond to ensure its products are clean and safe. The brand uses only ethically-sourced, high-quality ingredients and has thoughtfully formulated its products to be 90% vegan and 100% clean, cruelty-free and blissfully free from the bad stuff including parabens, phthalates, SLS and SLES. I also appreciate how accessible the line is to everyone - nothing will set you back more then $32.99!
 
Go to your favourite Shoppers Drug Mart store across Canada or online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca to try my favourites or discover your own!
 
- Lisamarie -

August 11, 2021

This week I'm (still) obsessed with... Belif The True Cream - Aqua Bomb Aloe!


My favourite summer moisturizer is back and better than ever... a gel-cream with soothing properties built right in that is now even more moisturizing and refreshing: 
 
Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb Aloe Vera - 50ml - $50 - a cooling, lightweight gel-cream with a natural refreshing citrus scent that soothes irritated skin and delivers instant hydration for all skin types, even the most sensitive. 
 
Chock full of organic ingredients including: aloe vera that is hand-picked and sustainably farmed in Guastatova - to soothe; lady's mantle - for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties; and napiers aqua formula - a blend of apothecary herbs including chickweed and plantain that boosts hydration - the new formula also includes a multi-level blend of hyaluronic acid that penetrates different layers of the skin for intense hydration, along with vitamin E to visibly smooth texture and even tone.
 
Even better is what it doesn't contain: free of sulfates SLS and SLES, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil and contains less than one percent of synthetic fragrances. 
 
This limited edition reformulation is available at avon.ca and ca.naturecollection.com
 
- Lisamarie -

August 6, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Nina Ricci Nina Rouge

Nina Ricci is bringing all of the magic of its emblematic perfume Nina to a creation which is even more Nina, even more Ricci:
 
Nina Ricci Nina Rouge - 50ml EDT - $85, 80ml EDT - $105 - a floral fruity gourmand fragrance with top notes of juicy raspberry and lively citron; heart notes of delicate gardenia and slightly spicy ginger flower; and base notes of indulgent bourbon vanilla and crunchy caramel. 
 
The famous nibbled apple bottle has been reinvented as a lacquered version, in an irresistible glossy red - it will be hard to keep yourself from wanting to bite it!

I bought my first bottle of Nina at an airport when I realized that I had forgotten to bring fragrance for my vacation - they didn't have testers so I bought it strictly because I liked the apple shaped bottle. Since that first purchase many, many years ago I have tried a lot of variations of the fragrance and I have to say, I have rarely been disappointed - there is just something wonderful about the Nina fragrances and this one is no exception - I can really smell the lemon notes on me and it dries down to a caramel like lemon - delicious!

Available at Hudson's Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs, Jean Coutu, Brunet, Uniprix and Familiprix stores across Canada as well as their online counterparts.

- Lisamarie -

July 28, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... Vichy Dercos Fortifying Treatment 5!

I don't know about you, but I've found the last year or so stressful AF - not only have I not been able to get a haircut, but I have been finding large quantities of my hair in the shower drain - I mean I've got enough hair for a comb-over now but I'd really prefer not to have to go there! Whether it is stress, fatigue, seasonal changes or even internal fluctuations, Vichy has come to the rescue with something to shore up weakened hair...
 
Vichy Dercos Fortifying Treatment 5 - 21 x 6ml ampoules - $74.95 - with 5 targets for anti-hair loss: hair breakage reduced after 1 application; thicker, more resistant hair; helps promote stronger hair fiber; fortifies the scalp skin barrier through hydration; and sooothes scalp discomfort due to dryness.
 
With a formula that is an exclusive combination of Aminexil, the gold standard anti-hair loss molecule with proven clinical efficacy, using 5 active ingredients for comprehensive action - from root: helps anchor hair in the scalp - to tip: promotes strong, resistant fiber + scalp strengthening action: reduces micro-imbalances of the scalp and boosts the scalp's resistance to promote hair growth. For great results in just 3 weeks: scalp is strengthened, hair becomes more resistant and stronger - after 6 weeks: hair  loss is reduced.
It's easy to use and can be applied on dry or wet hair. For intensive treatment: 1 monodose per day for 6 weeks. As an upkeep hair care treatment: 3 monodoses per week.
And to compliment the treatment there is Vichy Dercos Energising Fortifying Shampoo and  Conditioner - 200ml - $19.95 - Enriched with vitamins Niacinamide + Panthenol the shampoo brings vitality and vigor to hair to help fight against hair loss due to breakage. Revitalized, hair is less fragile; while the conditioner enriched with Aminexil and a complex Niacinamide + Ceramide, has a fortifying formula that nourishes the hair and targets fragilized zones to reinforce the structure of the hair fiber and envelop it with a protective film.
 
Available at drugstores across Canada and online at vichy.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

July 7, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... StriVectin Advanced Hydration Hyaluronic Omega Moisture Lip Mask!

StriVectin Advanced Hydration Hyaluronic Omega Moisture Lip Mask - 8.5g - $32 - with a deeply nourishing formula that wraps lips in a replenishing layer of omega-rich fatty acids to soothe dryness and prevent moisture loss. 
 
Even better than a balm, this deeply nourishing formula is clinically shown to strengthen the lip barrier for lasting moisture with: hyaluronic acid - helps plump lips by drawing in hydration and retaining moisture for a naturally plumped lip; omega-rich fatty acids - derived from raspberry seed oil, to help strengthen the lip barrier by hydrating and sealing in moisture on the lips; and Moroccan pomegranate flower extract - highly concentrated in powerful antioxidants to help improve lip contour for fuller looking lips.
 
It's easy to use - it comes with a spatula that you use to apply to clean lips before bed and leave on overnight - they also recommend applying twice during the day. I love the texture, which starts as a rich, velvety, blackberry-flavored balm in its jar, and upon contact, transforms into a transparent, silky veil that smooths dry, dehydrated lips. I'm actually pretty well versed in lip masks - I have been using the Laneige one since Christmas and I had already decided that I wasn't buying it again because it just wasn't doing enough of anything better then my usual balm to merit the price - now I'm also not buying it again because the StriVectin one is a million times better - I now actually wake up with smooth, hydrated lips that look healthy and plump - I'm sold!

Available at drug and department stores across Canada as well as their online counterparts and amazon.ca.

- Lisamarie -

June 30, 2021

Summer essentials you can feel good about from Tarte, Green Beaver and Native!

Keep your foundation from sliding off your face and look less shiny:
 
Tarte Shape Tape Setting Powder - $41 - a loose powder that absorbs oil and mattifies as it diffuses light for radiant-looking skin while blurring fine lines and imperfections and preventing flashback. The netted sifter dispenses the perfect amount of powder and eliminates mess -  and it even comes with a puff if you like that kind of thing (I prefer my brush). The formula includes Amazonian Clay - to absorb excess oil; Vitamin C - to brighten; and Mineral Pigments - to blur. It even comes in a Translucent Tan-Deep shade if you want to add some colour!
 
Like to travel with your powder? It also comes in a perfectly portable 4g mini size for $18.

Available at Sephora stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca and tartecosmetics.com.
Sun protection that's good for your skin:
 
Green Beaver Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 - 90ml - $24.99 - a 100% natural mineral sunscreen that is hypoallergenic, non-greasy and hydrates and nourishes skin, like a lotion, so not only does it protect skin from the sun, it also makes it better! The best part is the non-whitening formula infused with Canadian-grown organic raspberry extract which is rich in natural antioxidants that is water and sweat resistant up to 80 minutes and reef friendly.
 
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Summer doesn't have to stink:
 
Native Deodorant - 75g - $18.99 - with an aluminum-free formula containing naturally derived ingredients, with effective long-lasting odour protection and some really nice scents including Lavender & Rose; coconut & Vanilla; Cucumber & Mint; Eucalyptus & Mint; and Citrus & Herbal Musk. I found the price a little scary at first but if I think of how many terrible smelling natural deodorants that I have tried (and not worked) - a bit extra for one that does is worth it!

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

The last 2 products are part of an excellent new initiative: Thoughtful Choices at Shoppers Drug Mart - which is a curated range of products meant to help make it easier for you to shop consciously. All products with this seal are (at a minimum): Cruelty-free; Paraben, phthalate, SLS/SLES, formaldehyde, BPA & aluminum salts-free; and mindful of our planet. Just look for the Thoughtful Choices seal when you shop to discover all of them! 
 
BTW, I feel like if Shoppers carried Tarte, due to the brands philosophies and ingredient non-no's, it would also qualify for that program - so you can feel good about that purchase too!

- Lisamarie -

June 23, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... InfinitiPRO by Conair Smoothwrap 2-In-1 Styler!

A year with no haircuts has left me with more hair then I know what to do with -  which has me super-interested in anything that will make me look less like I'm sporting a mop on my head and more like I intend to have this much hair that now looks sleek and polished  thanks to:
 
InfinitiPRO by Conair Smoothwrap 2-In-1 Styler - $69.99 - features a 1 1/4" ceramic-coated barrel and plate that straightens or curls with even heat distribution that helps promote fast  styling to reduce damage while the dual ion therapy has positive and negative ions that work together to condition hair, giving it volume and body with less frizz and flyaways, leaving it feeling moisturized, softer and shinier.
 
It has 2 heat settings: 320F (160C) & 392F (200C) and is perfect for travel thanks to the ergonomic handle for styling ease that folds up and dual voltage - while the auto shut off and cool tip are nice safety benefits.

Also available in the collection is the Smoothwrap Hair Dryer - $79.99 - with the same ion benefits and ceramic technology that minimizes heat damage for the best healthy-looking hair.

Available now at mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

June 11, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Paco Rabanne Invictus Victory

Whether you are looking for something new and interesting for a Father's Day gift (yes, it's coming up soon!) or wanting to make the man in your life smell better - you can't go wrong with this new winning fragrance from Paco Rabanne:

Paco Rabanne Invictus Victory - 100ml EDP Extreme - $125 - a warm and spicy scent with intense duality - a fresh boost of sharp lemon and powerful incense followed by full-bodied tonka bean and potent vanilla for perfectly matched freshness and intensity - and the trophy-shaped bottle with a "V" for victory will show him what a winner you think he is (and smells)!

Available now at Hudson's Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart, Sephora, Jean Coutu and London Drugs stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca and sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

June 4, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Louis Vuitton On The Beach

Louis Vuitton introduces a new unisex fragrance as dazzling as the summer sun at its zenith over the beach:

Louis Vuitton On the Beach - 100ml EDP - $310; 200ml EDP - $480 - a fragrance meant to bring together the boundless emotion of a day spent on a sunny beach - the ecstasy of the sun, the unique surging of the sea and the gentle warmth of sand on skin. With brilliant top notes of yuzu - a rare citrus from Japan that has a complex scent, like a cross between grapefruit, mandarin and orange along with calming neroli; a sandy heart of thyme, rosemary, pink pepper and cloves; and a woody base of cypress. 
 
I don't really get "beach" from it but I am a fan - the yuzu gives it that citrus tone that I love in a summer scent while the spicy notes make it more interesting then your usual run of the mill citrus. Available at select Louis Vuitton stores across Canada and online at ca.louisevuitton.com. 
 
 - Lisamarie -

June 2, 2021

This week I'm obsessed with... Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil!

  
Are your brows also showing the effects of stay-at-home boredom that culminate in a pair of tweezers, a glass of wine and a morning full of brow-regret...?
 
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil - $32 - in 12 shades: Grey - cool grey; Shade 1 - cool light blonde; Shade 2 - warm golden blonde; Shade 2.5 - neutral blonde; Shade 2.75 - warm auburn; Shade 3 - warm light brown; Shade 3.5 - neutral medium brown; Shade 3.75 - warm medium brown; Shade 4 - warm deep brown; Shade 4.5 - neutral deep brown; Shade 5 - warm black-brown; Shade 6 - cool soft black - with an ultra-fine tip makes that makes adding definition to brows easy by allowing you draw incredibly natural-looking, hair-like strokes - perfect for spot-filling sparse or over-tweezed areas, and the smudge and water-proof formula is firm for precise application and lasts 12 hours.  

If I was some kind of brow genius I wouldn't have found myself in this situation to begin with so when I say it's easy to use - that means even an idiot (me) can do it - the preciseness of the pencil makes it super-easy to draw little hair strokes to add fullness that doesn't look fake - I also really appreciate that it comes in an auburn shade (most pencils don't)!

Over the pencil I like to apply Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter - $32 - it locks the colour into place and also keeps all the hairs going in the right direction - perfect if you have unruly brows! And under the pencil I have been trying out Browvo! Conditioning Primer - $38 - a nutrient rich primer for fuller looking brows you can wear it under your brow pencil to enhance colour and extend wear and/or overnight to condition, helping brows look thicker, fuller and healthier - I've been going the overnight route because 3 layers of products on my brows during the day feels like a bit much.

All 3 products are also available in a mini size for $19 perfect for travel (when we can do that again) or if you just want to try a smaller size first before committing to a full sized one!
 
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart and Sephora stores across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca and sephora.ca.
 
- Lisamarie -

May 28, 2021

Fragrant Friday - Jean Paul Gaultier La Belle and Le Beau


Enter into the garden of Jean Paul Gaultier; a place of temptation and attraction between La Belle and Le Beau, the new tempting fragrances for women and men:

La Belle - 50ml EDP - $110, 100ml EDP - $148 (exclusively at Hudson's Bay) - a fusion of addictive Oriental vanilla, fresh bergamot and stunning pear - an addictive, luminous trail for an attractive and ultra-feminine woman.

Le Beau - 125ml EDT - $120 - built around addictive tonka bean and coconut wood combined with the fresh facets of bergamot - a fresh, powerful trail for a seductive and ultra-sexy man.
 
I would actually wear either of them - I find them both warm, sweet and a bit fruity, my favourite kind of scent - Le Beau does have more of a masculine edge to it but it smells great on me so why not?!
 
The bottles, as always are lovely and provocative - sure to lead you into temptation - La Belle: a red woman's bust dipped in pink with necklace of gold roses and Le Beau: a green man's chest with a gold modesty leaf.

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

- Lisamarie -