This week I'm obsessed with... PanOxyl Daytime Invisible Patches!

Ah yes my friends, I've entered the truly humbling era of life where wrinkles and pimples join forces like some kind of dermatological tag team. Cool cool cool. Love that for me! Naturally they always RSVP “yes” to my biggest events and set up camp dead center on my face. 

Timing: impeccable. 

Location: aggressive. 

 

Back in the day, I’d try to strategically swoop my hair over it (very “mysterious side bang chic”) or pile on concealer until it looked like I’d spackled my face. Looking back on it, neither was very convincing. Thankfully, things have  evolved:

 

PanOxyl Daytime Invisible Patches - 40 patches in 2 sizes - $16.49 - these little overachievers are basically the “nothing to see here” of skincare. They quietly go about their business - absorbing gunk, unclogging pores, gently exfoliating - while you go about your business pretending your skin is flawless and unbothered. Infused with soothing centella and green tea extract, they also calm things down, because apparently even your pimple needs to relax. But the real magic trick? You can wear them under makeup without things going sideways! No weird texture, no cakey situation, no “why is that spot… textured?” moment! 

 

After some very scientific (read: mildly obsessive) trial and error, here’s the move: 

• Clean and dry skin 
• Apply the patch 
• Moisturize/prime everywhere else (leave the patch alone - she’s working) 
• Go in with foundation using a brush or sponge (fingers are not invited to this party) - gently tap over the patch - do not swipe unless you enjoy undoing your hard work 
• Lightly set with powder 

Will there still be a tiny bump? Maybe. But now it’s a discreet, blended-in bump instead of a full-blown “HELLO I HAVE ARRIVED” situation - which, frankly, is all we can ask for. 

 

Because if we can’t stop the chaos, at least we can make it subtle!

 

Also keep in mind that PanOxyl has a whole line of products - from washes to moisturizers to treatments  (including an Acne Banishing Body Spray which feels like something that bacne that is soon going to be revealed by summer tank tops would love) - so if you are dealing with more then the occasional, inconvenient pimple, they have you covered! And if you feel a pimple coming - they is an overnight patch - apply it before you go to bed and if you are lucky, it will disappear before ever making an appearance!

 

Available now at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at shoppersdrugmart.ca, well.ca and amazon.ca.

 

- Lisamarie -  

Three Ways to Rescue Dry Lips Right Now with Flexitol, Nivea and Grace & Stella!

It’s that awkward, meteorological identity-crisis time of year again. Is it winter? Is it spring? Is it some chaotic in-between situation where the weather throws snow in the morning and sunshine by lunch? Nobody knows. Least of all my lips, which have clearly decided the best course of action is to panic… and dry out completely. Sooooooo dry. Please send help. Preferably in balm form!

 

Flexitol Lip Balm - 10g - $6.49 - available in Regular, Berry and Mint - This concentrated little overachiever is basically first aid for lips that have gone through some things - clinically proven to show visible results in just one day, thanks to a formula powered by 2.5% urea and a squad of hardworking hydrating ingredients. 

Translation: it softens severely dry, chapped lips and brings them back from the brink with smooth, healthy-looking moisture. 

 

It’s dermatologically tested, deeply hydrating, and forms a protective barrier to keep precious moisture from making a dramatic escape. And because the formula is Australian-made, you can assume it knows a thing or two about surviving harsh conditions. Personally, I’m partial to the Refreshing Mint version - it gives a cool, soothing little tingle that makes my lips feel instantly happier (and a lot less crusty).

 

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

 

Nivea Glowy Lips - 10ml - $6.29 - adds a little extra oomph for hydrated, visibly glowy lips.Available in Classic Clear which uses magnolia extract for a fresh natural shine or my preference, Berry which delivers a juicy hint of colour and a rich gloss finish. Both are packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and  glycerin to hydrate immediately and keep lips comfy for 24 hours. Vegan, dermatologically tested, and gentle on even the crankiest lips. 

 

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

 

Grace & Stella Kiss Me Softly Nourishing Berry Lip Mask - 20ml - $13.95 - which sounds like something straight out of a rom-com but actually delivers some serious hydration. This berry-scented treatment is packed with plant-derived ingredients like jojoba seed oil and vitamin-rich shea butter to help heal dry, chapped lips while keeping them soft and moisturized - without that sticky gloss feeling. You can slather it on overnight as a lip sleeping mask for serious hydration or swipe it on during the day as a glossy berry-tinted balm. The clean formula is vegan, paraben-free and sulfate-free, with mineral oil, castor oil and cocoa seed butter delivering deep moisture for lips worthy of a truly cinematic smooch. Though I will admit… I’m not entirely sure why I need a tint at night. Perhaps it’s meant to entice one’s bedmate? In my experience it mostly just ends up decorating the pillowcase. Beauty is sacrifice, apparently.

 

Available at amazon.ca.

 

Spring may be taking its sweet time figuring itself out, but at least our lip care routine doesn’t have to. With a little help from these hydrating heroes, dry, cranky lips can get back to being smooth, happy and ready for whatever weird weather comes next. 

 

- Lisamarie - 

Crystals to Cyborgs: The Low-Tech and High-Tech Beauty Tools I Actually Use from White Lotus and Silk'n

White Lotus Double Headed Roller - $65 

 

Think of this as your face’s new favourite Netflix companion. One side is bigger for cheeks and forehead, the other is smaller for delicate areas like under the eyes - because your crow’s feet deserve VIP treatment too! 

 

These rollers are made from never-chemically-treated, A-grade crystal (fancy!) and use proper metal safety brackets (not sketchy wire that looks like it came from a DIY kit). The idea is simple: rolling helps drain lymph, boost micro-circulation and generally convince your skin to wake up and look alive again. Translation? Less puff, more glow, and a slightly more “I drink green juice” vibe. 

 

It’s gentle enough for sensitive areas (hello under-eyes and throat), which means you can use it daily without feeling like you’ve just sandpapered your face. Over time, it helps target fine lines, wrinkles, congestion and that general “why do I look tired when I slept 8 hours?” situation. 

 

Which crystal should you pick? 

Jade - Ideal for oily, reactive, breakout-prone skin (aka teen skin and hormonal chaos at any age). 

Rose Quartz - The all-rounder for normal, combination, and sensitive skin that occasionally throws a tantrum. 

Amethyst - Best for fragile, fine-line-prone skin that needs a little extra TLC.  

 

And no, I haven’t gone full Spencer Pratt on you - I’m not claiming it’ll align your chakras or manifest your soulmate. But I will say that using this on the couch while binge-watching TV is the laziest “treatment” I’ve ever done, and my skin is definitely glowier for it!  

 

Available at whitelotus.com. 

 

Silk’n LED Face Mask 100 - $299 

 

Yes, it looks like something a Marvel villain would wear. No, that doesn’t stop it from being amazing! 

 

This at-home LED mask uses clinically proven light therapy (red, blue, infrared, and mixed) to target wrinkles, acne, dullness, and basically every complaint your skin has ever filed. It’s perfect for busy people who want results but don’t want to book facials like it’s a part-time job. 

 

What it actually does: 

• Boosts collagen to soften fine lines and firm things up. 
• Uses blue light to fight acne-causing bacteria. 
• Improves overall texture for smoother, clearer, glowier skin. 

Each colour targets a different concern, so you’re basically getting a customizable facial… while lying in bed looking like a robot. 

• Red Light (620 nm): Boosts collagen, improves circulation, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
• Blue Light (460 nm): Targets acne-causing bacteria, clears up breakouts, and reduces sebum production.
• Yellow Light (590 nm): Reduces redness, soothes inflammation, and aids with skin detoxification.
• Purple Light (Mix of Red & Blue): Combines anti-aging and anti-acne benefits. 

The mask also features a mixed light option for a comprehensive, 15-minute treatment session. 

 

It’s soft, flexible, cordless, and held on with adjustable straps - so it’s comfy enough to scroll TikTok or watch TV while pretending you’re “doing self-care.” Sessions are short (10 minutes manual or 15 minutes hands-free) and you start with 3–4 times a week, then scale back once your skin starts behaving.

 

Futuristic, slightly ridiculous-looking, but shockingly effective. Proof that sometimes the weirdest beauty gadgets are the ones that actually work.

 

Available at silkn.ca, beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca and well.ca. 

 

So whether you’re rolling around with crystals or strapping on a sci-fi mask, the goal is the same: less stress, more glow and skin that looks like it’s living its best life! 

 

- Lisamarie - 

NIVEA x Bridgerton Lip Care - for lips worth courting!

Dearest Gentle Reader, 

 

It would seem the secret to truly irresistible lips has finally been unveiled:

 

The new NIVEA x Bridgerton Limited Edition Nourishing Lip Care collection promises to leave even the most discerning debutante with lips so soft, so kissable, they may well cause a flutter or two across the ballroom. These tinted and non-tinted lip balms offer immediate comfort and lasting indulgence, ensuring one is always prepared for every season of love - whether it be stolen glances, whispered confessions or the occasional daring kiss. And let us not overlook the exquisitely adorned, Regency-inspired packaging, which adds a touch of romance and refinement to even the most ordinary of days. Available in four enchanting scents, each delivering a different scent and 24 hours of moisture, there is truly a balm to suit every disposition. One may swoon into a delicate affair with Rose Meringue - with the aroma of a delicate rose and slight pearly shimmer; embrace a spirited romance with Peach Tea - with the aroma of juicy peaches; step boldly into leading-lady territory with Blackberry Pie - with the aroma of ripe berries and burgundy shine; or relive the magic of a first kiss with Vanilla Biscuit - with the aroma of sweet vanilla.  

 

After all, dear reader… in matters of the heart - and the lips - one can never be too well prepared!

 

Available now at drug and mass retailers across Canada and online at amazon.ca.

 

- Lady Lisamarie (who did not binge the new season in one sitting) - 

Low Effort, High Impact: The Tinted Lip Balms Getting Me Through Winter from Naturium, Rare Beauty and r.e.m. beauty!

Confession time: for a beauty blogger, I’m actually pretty low-maintenance most days. Foundation? Optional. Eyeshadow? Rare. But lip colour? Non-negotiable. I will not leave the house without something on my lips - it’s the bare minimum I ask of myself!

 

That said, winter does not care about my aesthetic goals. My lips want moisture, not matte - and while plenty of lipsticks claim to be hydrating, most of them are liars. So this time of year, it’s all about tinted lip balms - maximum moisture, zero discomfort and just enough colour to make me look alive!

 

While you can find tinted balms in just about every shade under the sun, my winter MVPs live firmly in the berry/burgundy/wine family. They perk up pale winter skin without screaming “I tried too hard”, feel less formal than a true red and don’t spotlight the lack of bronzer the way a bright pink or coral tends to. 

 

These are the three currently living rent-free in my purse:

 

Naturium Phyto-Glow Lip Balm in Jam - $14.99 - available in four shades plus clear, but Jam is the one. This sheer berry tint is effortlessly flattering and gives lips that juicy, healthy glow. Packed with shea butter, cupuaçu butter and plant squalane, it cushions and smooths while delivering long-lasting moisture. The finish is glossy but not sticky, and there’s a subtle vanilla scent that feels cozy rather than cloying. Easy, affordable and dangerously reapply-able.

 

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

 

Rare Beauty Find Comfort Lip Butter in Uplifting - $25 - there are three shades plus clear, but Uplifting - a deep, cool berry - has my heart. It melts into lips with sheer, buildable colour and serious hydration thanks to hyaluronic acid butter, shea butter and apple seed oil. Never greasy, never sticky, just soft, smooth, “wow your lips look great” energy and a subtle vanilla scent that will make it hard not to lick your lips. Bonus points for being vegan, cruelty-free, and free of basically everything questionable.

 

Available at Sephora stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca and rarebeauty.com. 

r.e.m. beauty Essential Drip Glossy Balm in Cherry Cola - $29 - this glossy balm comes in six shades, but Cherry Cola - a warm brown-cherry - is peak winter sophistication. It’s a hydrating lip treatment disguised as a high-shine gloss, powered by hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich superfruits. The double-sided applicator makes application weirdly satisfying and the finish gives that sheer, plush colour that makes lips look smoother and healthier instantly. 

 

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

 

Moisturized lips, flattering colour, zero effort - winter beauty really doesn’t have to be complicated!

 

- Lisamarie - 

This week I'm obsessed with... Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask!

If your hair is like mine - feeling dry, damaged and like it’s been through a little too much winter lately, this cult-fave mask is basically rehab in a jar and might be just what you need: 

 

Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask - 236ml - $53 - clinically proven to reduce breakage in just 10 minutes and strengthen hair up to two times after three uses thanks to a smart balance of moisture and protein (aka the literal building blocks of healthy hair).

 

The texture is rich and indulgent, but never heavy, leaving hair soft, silky and noticeably stronger without flattening it. Designed for dry, brittle and over-processed strands of all hair types and textures, it’s also one of those feel-good formulas you can really get behind: 97% naturally derived, silicone-free, vegan, cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny certified. How's that for overachiever energy?! 

 

The heavy lifting comes from plant proteins that help replenish missing keratin and reinforce the hair shaft, algae extract packed with antioxidants to nourish and protect and rosehip and sweet almond oils that deliver essential fatty acids to lock in moisture and keep frizz in check. Translation: smoother hair now, healthier hair later. 

 

And if (let's be serious, when) you happen to be browsing Sephora, keep your eyes peeled for the limited-edition birthday version of this mask. It delivers the same iconic repair benefits but with a deliciously sweet scent featuring notes of vanilla, cocoa, jasmine and musk. It’s sold out online, but I managed to snag one in store, so there may still be a few floating around - and trust me, the scent alone is worth the hunt!

 

Available at Sephora stores across Canada and online at sephora.ca, amazon.ca and briogeohair.com.

 

- Lisamarie - 

This week I'm obsessed with... Nudestix Nudies Matte All Over Face Blush Color!

Winter means two things: my skin gets thirstier and powder makeup becomes my enemy. Anything powder just sits on dry skin and highlights all my life choices - so I switch to cream products whenever the temperature drops. Extra moisture? Yes please! Looking shiny like I ran a marathon? Hard no. Enter this little overachiever: 

 

Nudestix Nudies Matte All Over Face Blush Color - $44 - in 10 shades: Bare Back - cool nude, Bubba - warm bubble-gum pink, Cherie - neutral nude rose, In The Nude - neutral nude, Moodie Blu - deep eggplant, Naughty N' Spice - dusty rose nude, Nude Peach - soft peachy coral, Picante - orange-coral, Sunkissed Pink - cool pink and my absolute fave: Sunset Strip - soft coral nude (pictured). 

 

It's a creamy blush that gives you that healthy flush that says “well-rested” even when everyone would otherwise know that I am absolutely lying about that!

 

The formula is creamy, blendable and buildable - swipe it on lightly for a subtle glow or layer it up when you want your cheeks to look alive again. And because it’s an all-over stick, you can dab it on cheeks, eyelids and lips for a chic monochromatic look that only takes 30 seconds and looks very put together. 

 

Now let’s talk packaging, because Nudestix did not come to play! This dual-ended stick includes the blush and a detachable blending brush in a metal case which also has a mirror. It’s basically a makeup minimalist’s dream and perfect for travel, touch-ups or emergency situations that call for a quick pick-me-up. 

 

 Bonus bragging rights: it’s vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free and fragrance-free and formulated without parabens, sulfates or phthalates. 

 

Moisturizing, matte, multi-use and low-maintenance - the winter MVP your makeup bag deserves!

 

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart and Sephora stores across Canada and online at nudestix.ca, beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca, sephora.ca and well.ca.

 

- Lisamarie - 

Last-Minute Gifts That Won’t End Up in a Junk Drawer from Quo Beauty, Cowbell Brewing Co. and Good Luck Socks!

We’re officially down to the wire. Christmas is 2 weeks away and while I’m sure the ultra-organized among us had all their gifts wrapped and labelled back in November, the rest of us are panic-scrolling and whispering “it’s fine” into our coffee mugs. 

 

Some people are easy to shop for - they’ll hand you a list, a link and possibly a coupon code. Others are vague, mysterious and fully expect you to read their mind. But the hardest gifts? The people you don’t know super well but still feel obligated to buy for. You know the ones: your hairdresser, yoga instructor, kids’ teachers, gift-exchange randoms… and yes, somehow your spouse still ends up on this list! You could of course go the gift card route but to me, any gift card under $50 is kind of cheap so physical gifts are preferred for this.

 

The goal here: thoughtful, useful gifts that won’t live forever in the back of their closet. Bonus points if they feel a little indulgent - let’s go! 

 

Quo Beauty Gift Sets (aka: one-stop shopping salvation) 

 

Quo Beauty has seriously stepped up their gift-set game. What started as mostly makeup and brush sets has expanded into a little bit of everything, making it dangerously easy to grab all your gifts in one Shoppers Drug Mart run. Personally, I’m obsessed with: 

 

Quo Beauty 12 Days of Bath - $27 

An advent calendar, but make it self-care. Open a door a day and uncover bathy, spa-adjacent goodness designed to turn even the quickest rinse into a moment of calm. 

Inside you’ll find: 

A Bath Mesh Sponge for extra-foamy, luxurious lather 

A Fuzzy Scrunchie because cozy hair accessories are elite 

A Satin Sleep Mask for beauty sleep (or blocking out family chaos) 

30ml Shower Gel with a holiday-inspired scent

30ml Hand Cream for winter-ravaged hands  

30ml Bubble Bath to transform bath night into spa night 

 A Nail File for tidy tips all season 

2 Bath Fizzers for a fragrant, fizzy soak 

A Shower Steamer to make even a shower feel fancy 

Spiral Hair Bands that don’t pull or crease 

A Sparkle Hair Clip because a little shimmer never hurt anyone 

It’s cute, practical, and universally appealing - the trifecta of gifting success!

 

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada, Real Canadian Superstore and I've also seen it at Loblaws. 

 

Alternatively, check out the Hand Cream Collection - 5 x 50ml - $15 - because the scents are amazing and let's face it, everyone has hands (probably at least 2)!

When in doubt… alcohol! 

 

I firmly believe you mostly can’t go wrong with alcohol (unless the recipient is under 19, in which case parents tend to get weirdly opinionated). Instead of defaulting to a basic bottle of wine, mix things up with something more fun: 

 

Cowbell Brewing Co. Winter Mixer 2025 - $21.95 6 x 473ml featuring: 

 

Hazy Days Juicy IPA, Absent Landlord Kölsch, Shindig Lager, Cerveza Mexican-Style Lager, West Coast IPA, and Chocolate Raspberry Pudding Cake Stout. 

 

From hop-forward IPAs to a full-on dessert stout inspired by holiday chocolate treats, this pack is perfect for beer lovers who like variety. Standouts include: 

West Coast IPA – crisp, citrusy, piney, and unapologetically bitter (as it should be) 

Chocolate Raspberry Pudding Cake Stout – smooth, decadent, and basically dessert in a can

 

Available at LCBO stores across Canada and online at cowbellbrewing.com. 

 

Socks: the glow-up we didn’t see coming... 

 

Socks used to be the universal “I tried… barely” gift. Not anymore. These days, you can find literally any colour, pattern or personality imaginable! Grab a pair as a stocking stuffer, or go big with: 

 

Good Luck Sock – Sock of the Month Club - 6 months - $80 | 12 months - $160 

 

Truly the gift that keeps on giving. One fun, quirky pair of socks delivered straight to their mailbox every month - with free shipping across North America. It’s practical, fun and makes it seem like you put in way more thought than you actually did!

 

Check it out at goodlucksock.ca. 

 

There you go: thoughtful gifts, minimal effort, maximum appreciation. Now go forth and conquer that last-minute shopping like the festive procrastinator you are!

 

- Lisamarie -