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!

 

Available online at: https://beverlyhillsmd.com/product/activated-retinol-night-treatment 

 

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Stila Hide & Chic Fluid Foundation

Stila Hide & Chic Fluid Foundation - 30ml - $51 - a liquid foundation that offers discreet, covert, medium coverage with a featherweight feel and natural finish in 30 shades:

Fair 1 - very fair skin tones with pink to neutral undertones, Fair 2 - very fair skin tones with yellow to neutral undertones, Light 1 - light skin tones with pink undertones, Light 2 - light skin tones with yellow undertones, Light 3 - light skin tones with pink undertones, Light 4 - light skin tones with neutral undertones, Light/Medium 1 - light/medium skin tones with yellow undertones, Light/Medium 2 - light skin tones with pink undertones, Light/Medium 3 - light/medium skin tones with neutral undertones, Light/Medium 4 - light/medium skin tones with yellow undertones, Medium 1 - medium skin tones with pink undertones, Medium 2 - medium skin tones with neutral undertones, Medium 3 - medium skin tones with yellow undertones, Medium 4 - medium skin tones with pink undertones, Medium 5 - medium skin tones with yellow undertones, Tan 1 - tan skin tones with yellow undertones, Tan 2 - tan skin tones with neutral undertones, Tan 3 - tan skin tones with red undertones, Tan 4 - tan skin tones with red undertones, Tan 5 - tan skin tones with yellow undertones, Tan/Deep 1 - tan/deep skin tones with neutral undertones, Tan/Deep 2 - tan/deep skin tones with red undertones, Tan/Deep 3 - tan/deep skin tones with yellow undertones, Tan/Deep 4 - tan/deep skin tones with red undertones, Deep 1 - deep skin tones with red undertones, Deep 2 - deep skin tones with yellow undertones, Deep 3 - deep skin tones with neutral undertones, Deep 4 - deep skin tones with neutral undertones, Deep 5 - deep skin tones with yellow undertones, Deep 6 - deep skin tones with neutral undertones.

The formula contains innovative silica-coated pigments that blur imperfections while the nutrient-infused formula with Irish sea moss - to improve texture and hydration, plant collagen extract - a combination of five roots and veggies to help firm skin and improve elasticity and baobab seed extract - helps defend and nurture skin - helps visibly smooth and refine for a more even-toned complexion.

What's notable about it is just how thin the formula is - which had me expecting sheer coverage at best but it's actually very customizable for everything from barely there to total flaw concealment - just remember is to shake really well before using. It's a pump formula which I like but because the formula is so liquid applying it directly to my brush got a little messy so I pumped it on the back of my hand and loaded my brush from there - half a pump is plenty for me for sheer to medium coverage or a full pump for medium coverage with a little extra in problem areas.

The shade selection is great, my perfect colour exists and I also don't find that it disappears during the day or melts off my face when the weather gets steamy so overall I am loving this new foundation!

Available at all Stila counters including select Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques and Sephora stores across Canada and online at stila.ca.

- Lisamarie -

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 -

Test Driving - Teaology Nourishing & Smoothing Matcha Tea Miracle Face and Neck Mask

Sick and tired or your skin looking sick and tired? A recent week-long cold had my skin looking less then it's healthy best so I gave this a try:

Teaology Nourishing & Smoothing Matcha Tea Miracle Face and Neck Mask - 30ml - $9.95 -  with a formula naturally rich in antioxidant polyphenols from Matcha Tea which enhances the moisturizing and regenerating action of the organic argan oil as well as the plumping and toning effect of a firming centella and bioflavonoid-based plant complex along with precious thermal trace elements which purify while the omega 6 makes the skin more elastic and compact. In just 10 minutes small wrinkles and signs of dehydration were less visible and my face looked more toned, smooth and radiant - like I had never been sick at all!

 The secret of this mask lies in its special fabric infused with real Matcha Tea which, adhering perfectly to the face and neck, remains in contact with the skin and both facilitates the absorption of nourishing active ingredients and prevents them from evaporating.

It's easy to use, just apply the mask after using a cleanser on the face and neck. Relax and leave for 10 to 20 minutes. Remove and massage any excess serum into the skin until completely absorbed. Not only will it perk your skin back up after epic germ battles, it's also the perfect pick-me-up before a hot date, special occasion or just for when your skin is feeling blah!

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

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Phyto RE30 Grey Hair Treatment

Phyto RE30 Grey Hair Treatment - 50ml - $59 - the first anti-grey hair treatment that brings back colour to the hair without using colouring pigments thanks to a revolutionary technology that is able to boost the natural pigment production while protecting from future depigmentation.

The main ingredient in the formula is Peptide RE30 - a patented active ingredient that boosts melanin production at the bulb and helps stimulate the natural pigmentation of hair during regrowth; along with purple tulip extract - which acts on keratin-associated proteins to strengthen hair from the roots.The results are clinically proven: repigmented at the root, for hair that grows back with colour, stronger and softer.

It's easy to use, just apply 8 sprays once a day on dry or wet scalp and don't rinse out - you can rub it into the roots a bit especially at the back where it's harder to aim the spray.

One bottle will last you about a month with daily use - possibly a bit more or less depending on how big your head is and it will take 3 months (3 bottles) to see full results. Don't expect all of the grey to go away but it should be reduced by 77%, so the less grey you have, the better the visible results. And of course you'll have to keep using it to maintain the results so you will need to make it part of your daily routine forever to keep the grey at bay.

I don't have a lot of greys but they are noticeable enough that I tried it out for the 3 months just to see how well it would work and I ended up impressed. By month 2 there were definitely less greys growing in and by month 3, hardly any at all. Of course this would only be really useful if I was  looking to maintain my natural hair colour - since I usually dye it a different shade I might as well keep doing that - less money and effort - but I will say this for the treatment, for the 3 months I was using it my hair smelled great and was so soft!

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada and online at phyto-canada.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Bio-Oil Dry Skin Gel

Bio-Oil Dry Skin Gel - available in three convenient sizes: 50ml - $9.99 - for on the go, 100ml -  $14.99 - for travel and 200ml - $24.99 - for at home - a unique gel-to-oil formulation for dry skin with a highly potent formulation that includes emollients, humectants and skin soothing ingredients also found in the original Bio-Oil Skincare Oil. These ingredients offer superior hydration to effectively treat dry skin and the unwanted symptoms associated with it such as redness, flaking, irritation and itching.

As I understand it, the problem with most body creams, lotions and butters is that they are made up of
approximately 70% water, most of which evaporates when it comes into contact with your skin so is of no benefit to really dry skin. For this Dry Skin Gel, Bio-Oil has pioneered a way to replace all but 3% of the usual water with oil, thereby creating a product that is 100% active, helping the skin retain its moisture.

What also makes it different from your usual body moisturizer is the gel texture which is really light but surprisingly you only need to use the smallest amount - and by that I mean even less then you think - the first time you will use too much, I guarantee it! Also unlike most moisturizers, it doesn't rub in and disappear but rather leaves a film behind which not only adds instant moisture but also a nice glow to my skin! I don't know that it's something I will love it in the summer when my skin goes from dry to normal but for the winter when my skin desperately wants all the moisture it can get, it's perfect!

Available now at drugstores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - InfinitiPro by Conair 3Q Straightener

InfinitiPro by Conair 3Q Straightener - $119.99 - provides super-fast styling thanks to 1 inch plates that heat up to 455 degrees F within 30 seconds, lasting smoothness with 100% more ion generation that actively eliminates static and tames frizz for exceptional shine. The luxurious black titanium plates give ultimate glide for effortless smoothing and the electroplated plates enhance heat conductivity for soft, manageable hair while advanced CeraTherm technology gives superior fast-action heat transfer.

The straightener features 12 digital heat settings that allow optimum temperature for different hair types and intelligent sensor technology that adjusts the temperature to protect hair from excessive heat. What I like best is the gentle setting which allows you to instantly reduce heat to help minimize damage when styling - perfect if you have fine hair like mine that heats up really quick - I find it takes only a couple of passes with the iron but if it takes more then that I can easily reduce the heat so my hair doesn't fry! The other options that make me really appreciate it are practical but so very necessary - auto shut off for those Monday mornings when you can barely remember to put on pants never mind turn off your straightener and a 5 foot long swivel cord so there is lots of room to maneuver and you don't have to worry about the cord getting all tangled up!

Available at mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation - 50ml - $50 - in 40 shades designed to suit a wide range of skin tones from light to deep: 0 Cool Rosy, 0 Neutral, 0 Warm, 1 Cool, 1 Cool Rosy, 1 Neutral, 1 Warm, 1.5 Neutral, 2 Cool Rosy, 2 Neutral, 2 Warm, 2 Warm Olive, 2 Warm Peach, 2.5 Neutral, 3 Cool, 3 Cool Rosy, 3 Neutral, 3 Warm, 3 Warm Olive, 3 Warm Peach, 3.5 Neutral, 4 Cool, 4 Neutral, 4 Warm, 4 Warm Olive, 4 Warm Peach, 4.5 Neutral, 4.5 Warm, 5 Neutral, 5 Warm, 5 Warm Peach, 6 Neutral, 6 Warm, 6 Warm Peach, 6.5 Neutral, 7 Neutral, 7.5 Neutral, 7.5 Warm, 8 Neutral, 9 Neutral - with medium buildable coverage that dries to a natural matte finish

It has a waterproof formula that fuses with the skin, resisting extreme conditions like workout sessions, water, and even high temperatures and humid environments. Enriched with beauty-enhancing pigments, the formula creates a perfect, natural look, both in real life and through the lens of a camera. Its natural finish and lightweight texture can also be used on the body, revealing the skin's radiance while camouflaging minor imperfections on the neck, shoulders, and legs.

It comes in a sturdy plastic bottle which makes it easily portable but I find the tip on the bottle tends to leak a bit when opened if the bottle has been in transit so be careful! And it really is very budge-proof so an oil-based remover to get if off at the end of the day is a must have!

Available at Dior counters across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - NowMi Pro Complete Facial Solution

Going to the spa is one of my favourite things but sadly time and money prevent me from doing it as often as I would like to - so I love discovering at-home treatments that make me feel all the spa relaxation and effectiveness without the time-suck and price tag!

NowMi Pro - $240 - an advanced anti aging facial solution that enables you to deeply cleanse skin on a daily basis and also perform a weekly skin rejuvenating facial - all performed in the comfort of your own home. Designed for today’s busy lifestyle, the treatment takes only 5 minutes and can be carried out anywhere, anytime - and best of all, it costs just a fraction of its professional spa equivalent!

On one side, the device offers daily cleansing with silicone micro-fingers which emit 6,000 sonic pulses per minute to help the cleansing gel penetrate and thoroughly remove all unwanted makeup, dirt and oil - for highly effective cleansing that is also very gentle on the skin and doesn’t cause any irritation. As well as cleaning there is also the benefit of facial massage which boosts blood circulation, increasing the production of collagen and elastin - both key proteins which restore the skin's elasticity and firmness.

To be used with the included NowMi cleansing gel with a formula which includes: vitamin E - a powerful anti-oxidant that helps the skin keep hydrated and plays an important role in skin healing; vitamin B3 - an anti-oxidant that is known for its anti-aging qualities and for its ability to protect the skin from damaging UV light; vitamin B5 -  enables the skin to retain greater quantities of water and as a result stay moisturized as well as helps the skin repair itself and reduces inflammation; and Dead Sea minerals - the richest source of healing minerals in the world to infuse skin rejuvenating minerals such as zinc, calcium, chloride and sodium chloride.

The other side of the device is used in conjunction with vitamin C effervescent tablets and lubricant gel for weekly spa-like treatments which easily performs 4 skin actions:

Sonic Exfoliation - performed primarily by the effervescent tablet which has a slightly coarse surface. When massaged into the skin, the effervescent tablet gently removes the outer layer of the skin leaving it incredibly soft and smooth and facilitates the optimal penetration of vitamins and minerals into the skin - and enhanced by the sonic energy which emits 6,000 sonic pulsations per minute which ensures the thorough cleansing of all pores.

Sonic Nourishment - during treatment the skin is infused with pure vitamin C - a powerful anti-oxidant that helps the body to neutralize free-radicals and slow down the signs of aging. It also reduces skin inflammation and pigmentation; vitamin E - helps the skin protect itself from extrinsic factors such as pollution, smoke, unhealthy food and more, anti-aging attributes as well as its skin hydration and scar reducing qualities; and hyaluronic acid - a powerful antioxidant that  The Hyaluronic acid plays a major role in hydrating the skin. It helps the skin to retain water and as a result slows the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The Hyaluronic acid also helps the skin repair itself faster and reduces skin inflammation - the sonic energy dramatically improves the effectiveness of the infusion since it helps the ingredients reach deeper and faster into the skin.

Sonic Oxygenation: when the effervescent tablet comes into contact with the lubricant gel a chemical reaction occurs which creates a C02 rich environment. As a result, the body responds by sending 02 infused blood cells to the area. By doing so, it creates a natural facial oxygenation effect from within the skin which helps the absorption of the vitamins and minerals - the sonic energy further increases the oxygenation process- it degases the C02 microbubbles which significantly boosts the oxygenation effect.

Sonic Protection: replenishes the skin’s vitamin C supply and enables it to protect itself from extrinsic factors and repair damaged skin - the sonic energy plays an important role in the protection of the skin since it exponentially increases the infusion of the vitamin C.

It's very easy to use and after 6 weeks I can really see the results:my skin looks and feels smoother and fine lines are less evident;
my skin is more hydrated and plumper;
but what I really notice is the radiance, my skin glows - like really, really glows!

What's also nice about the device, it doesn't require a lot of upkeep - it's highly hygienic since it's made of nonporous silicone which is resistant to bacteria buildup and is also completely waterproof so can be used in the shower or bath. And once you fully charge it up, it has enough power to supply a month’s worth of treatments which makes it a great travel buddy!

Each kit contains:
 NowMi Pro applicator (powered by sonic energy)
Vitamin C effervescent tablets for 6 weekly treatments
100ml NowMi lubricant gel
100ml NowMi facial cleansing gel for daily use

Score yours now at: https://nowmi.com/product/nowmi-pro/

- Lisamarie - 

Test Driving - Prophecy Cream

Israel's skin care secrets courtesy of Hava Zingboim Cosmeceuticals have finally made their way to Canada with a product that features the first and only way to effectively permeate the skin with hyaluronic acid - without injections:

Prophecy Cream - 50ml - $199 - with a paraben and fragrance free formula (also in a boy version) that replenishes hyaluronic acid topically to lessen wrinkles, improve firmness and elasticity leaving skin looking plump and youthful.

What makes it different from other hyaluronic creams is the micronization process - a breakthrough proprietary process that separates the hyluroic acid molecule into smaller sections of micronized HA which are then easily absorbed deeply into all layers of the skin. Once absorbed, micronized HA molecules bind with 1,000 times their weight in water and act as an inflated cushion, supporting tissue structures that have lost volume, to restore youthful bouncy skin.

I've been sitting on posting about this for a while now because I actually wanted to try it out for a couple of months first since it's so different from anything I've written about before so had no basis for comparison. Sure I've tried lots of hyaluronic acid based creams and they all did a fine job moisturizing, but you don't realize how much better it could be until you try something that takes it to a whole new level! I'm not saying it's some kind of miracle cream that makes wrinkles instantly disappear but what you will notice after using for a few weeks is that skin is so much plumper that wrinkles get evened out, skin feels firmer and looks lifted - and on top of all of that, it really glows!

This will be the best and most effective 30 seconds you spend twice a day on your skin and feel free to layer it with other products!

Available now at select medical spas and luxury boutiques across Canada and online at prophecyskincare.com and amazon.ca.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - CND Shellac Luxe!

I have a somewhat sad admission to make - I've never had a Shellac manicure before! I like the idea of a long-lasting, chip free manicure in theory but the removal sounded so difficult and time consuming that I just couldn't be bothered. No longer an issue thanks to CND Shellac Luxe - a 2-step system which offers fast and easy removal in just 60 seconds with absolutely no nail damage!

In 65 shades: 50 of them match CND Shellac's most loved colours along with 15 exclusive new brand shades inspired by luxury and high-fashion runway trends: Femme Fatale, Satin Slippers, Aurora, Silhouette, Boheme, Whisper, Brazen Vivant, Chandelier, Grace, Charm, Liberte, Black Cherry, Temptation, Phantom, Wildfire, Masquerade, Oxblood, Decadence, Brick Knit, Lobster Roll, Mambo Beat, Hollywood, Rouge Rite, Dark Lava, Tinted Love, Electric Orange, Cake Pop, Be Demure, Lavender Lace, Bink Bikini, Tropix, Magenta Mischief, Rose Bud, Tutti Frutti, Grapefruit Sparkle, Pink Pursuit, Pink Leggins, Hot Pop Pink, Cream Puff, Romantique, Beau, Negligee, Field Fox, Studio White, Satin Pajamas, Nude Knickers, Uncovered, Unmasked, Rock Royalty, Midnight Swim, Fedora, Dark Dahlia, Black Pool, Indigo Frock, Eternal Midnight, Aqua-intance, Creekside, Blue Eyeshadow, Winter Nights, Palm Deco, Alpine Plum, Ice Bar, Dark Diamonds, Patina Buckle

So here it is after just over a week - you can see where it's grown out from the cuticle but what you don't see is any chips! It doesn't photograph as well as it could but it is also still impressively shiny - without my having added any additional top coat!

Best of all, I can get it removed at the salon when I go to get my next gel manicure or I can wrap my nails in cotton pads soaked in acetone and cover in tin foil for 60 seconds and remove it myself! To remove at home - firmly press on the top of each nail, massage and twist the wrap from the nail while encasing the product within the wrap and gently remove any remaining product with an orangewood stick - easy peasy!

Get your amazing CND Shellac Luxe manicure at salons across Canada - check out www.cnd.com to find one near you.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Blitz Facial Bar The O2 Blitz Facial!

I've had a lot of oxygen facials since Madonna made them so popular years back and they have all been pretty much the same thing:
a spray like airbrush in conjunction with a serum providing one result per treatment.

I thought that was the way they were supposed to go but it turns out, not all oxygen facials are created equally! So I visited the wonderful Mati at The Path location of Blitz Facial Bar to try The O2 Blitz!

At Blitz Facial Bar, they do oxygen facials differently, rather then a spray, they use an innovative CO2 organic dermal-grade gel with ingredients such as licorice extract, eucalyptus, ivy, glycerin, sodium bicarbonate and caffeine that delivers oxygen into the dermal layer of the skin triggering red blood cells to release large amounts of oxygen needed to stimulate skin cell renewal along with a specially designed sheet mask.

I'm told oxygen levels in facial tissues naturally decline with age so at its most basic, the O2 facial increases oxygen in the skin, which in turn stimulates circulation to help the deeper layers of the skin take in the high-performance ingredients in the gel.

Once O2 is absorbed into your skin, oxygen-rich blood flows and as a result, cell metabolism is enhanced and oxygenation is greater; effectively delivering much-needed nutrients and hydration.

It's your usual facial up to the gel part - cleaning, massaging, exfoliating: then a thick layer of the oxygenated gel is applied (brrrr, it's cold, they keep it in the fridge!) and a sheet mask is placed over top generating CO2. This creates a sensation of tiny bubbles fizzling over the skin. The cool and tingling feeling means the regenerating effectiveness of the ingredients are reaching the deeper layers of the epidermis - it feels weird but not painful - kind of like pop rocks popping all over your face. And while waiting for it to do it's good work you are treated to a scalp and hand massage - my idea of heaven!

The best thing about this facial is not only does it result in an increase in skin elasticity, wrinkle reduction, skin brightening and luminous skin tone right away but the results continue on for another 10 days - leaving skin tighter, plumper and younger looking - it's the facial that keeps on giving!

The O2 Blitz will set you back $190, lasts an hour, is safe for all skin types, both genders and has no downtime or side effects making it perfect for special events or even as a lunch time facial - now made even easier since Blitz opened the location in The Path - right in downtown Toronto at 65 Queen Street West!

Picking up your Blitz skin products is also very simple - they will make suggestions for you after your facial based on your skin type/concerns and will keep all your choices on file in the computer so you don't have to actually remember what you use, they can remind you when you come.

You can book your facial online at https://blitzfacialbar.com/location-path/ or by phone at 416-365-1200 - or check out blitzfacialbar.com - to find the other 3 locations across Toronto (and the one in Brooklyn, NY)!

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - the new and improved Clairol Nice 'n Easy!

Hate to colour because of the mess and smell? Then you will love this true breakthrough in home hair colour:

Clairol Nice 'n Easy Permanent Colour - $11.99 - in 50 natural looking shades and a formula that gives you everything you love - healthy, deeply conditioned, natural-looking colour - and takes out what you don’t - the icky, home-colour odour and the straw-like feeling of dried-out strands - by blocking damage and conditioning hair while you colour.

What makes it really great is it contains a breakthrough innovation: ME+ - a revolutionary dye molecule that reduces the risk of an allergic reaction that still gives 100% gray coverage, rich, layered tones and contouring highlights. 

In addition to phenomenal colour results with significantly reduced risk of an allergic reaction, the colour care formula offers an upgraded colour experience, with a no-drip formula that smells like fresh flowers instead of ammonia.

I have to admit, I don't colour as often as I should because of that terrible smell that all hair colours seem to have - the new Nice 'n Easy really had no offensive odour at all - I knew this for sure after I walked into the room where my husband was when I had it on and he didn't start complaining like he usually does when I colour - he had no idea I was colouring and thought I had a mask on my hair! I also have to say, my hair was super soft and shiny afterwards - with no look or feel of damage - we definitely have a winner here!

Available now at drug, grocery and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - DermaWand Anti-Aging Skin Care System

DermaWand Anti-Aging Skin Care System - $119 - includes the device, pre-face treatment, carrying case, instructional DVD and beauty guide - for a non-invasive solution to help soften fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone and texture. 

It works by sending out a gentle stream of low level micro-current impulses up to 100,000 cycles per second, to massage your skin, improve circulation bringing oxygen and vital nutrients to your skin's surface - employing radio frequency technology similar to the large clinical machines used by medical and skin care specialists, but with a lower frequency and amplitude, that is safe for daily home use. 

It doesn't require a big time commitment - you can see results with as little as two 3-minute treatments a day. It also doesn't hurt, it's more like a prickling - there are 9 intensity levels that allow you to adapt your treatments to your comfort level - and don't feel like you need to tolerate the pain and use a level higher then what is comfortable - despite the common misconception, things don't won't work faster if they hurt!

The important thing to remember with this, as with any other beauty device, it takes time! You aren't going to see results after the first use or probably even after the first week - I always give new products a month to start seeing something - if nothing is happening even after a month that's a good indicator that it's probably a lemon!

Having been using the DermaWand for about 45 days now I have noticed that my jaw line looks tighter and feels firmer and my crow's feet are much softer - I have heard of people using it on their hands which I had also intended to try but they must have the patience of a saint - the wand covers such a small area at a time that it would take forever to do your whole hand - never mind 2 of them!
 
As far as the DermaVital Preface Treatment that is included, it's a very nice moisturizer but don't feel like you have to run out and buy more when you run out, you can use the device with any moisturizer, just pick something very hydrating.

Want to see it in action before buying? Check out the video instruction at www.HowToDermaWand.com.

Available now at Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques, Costco and other retailers across Canada. 

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Vichy Liftactiv Vitamin C Brightening Skin Corrector

Vichy Liftactiv Vitamin C Brightening Skin Corrector - 10ml - $45 -a 10-day cure to brighter, more even, firmer skin that looks lifted, rested and more hydrated. The formula contains 15% pure vitamin C along with a powerful antioxidant complex that includes vitamin E - to fight fatigue, neohesperidine - to firm and smooth, maritime pine extract - for smoothness, radiance and firmness, fragmented hyaluronic acid - for smoothness, bounce, hydration and more elasticity and Vichy mineralizing thermal water - for stronger, healthy looking skin.

They suggest using it when lack of sleep or constant travel or the change is seasons etc has taken a toll on your skin and has it looking tired and stressed - or if you have a special even coming up that you want to look especially radiant for - I didn't have any particular good excuse for looking so drawn and tired I just did dammit!

It was easy to use - every morning apply 4-5 drops of the corrector on freshly cleansed, dry skin then go ahead with the rest of your regular skin care routine - the important part is to make you use it 10 days in a row - and I have to say by day 11, my skin was glowing, just like good sex skin - this would be the perfect thing to use before a wedding or other special occasion and I totally plan on breaking it out again next time my skin needs that extra pick-me-up!

Available now at drugstores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Lipivir Lip Ointment

Lipivir Lip Ointment - 2g - $26.99 - the first non-prescription product to provide a daily preventative routine to reduce the frequency of cold sore outbreaks - it goes on clear, can be worn under your usual beauty products and will stay put under makeup and sweat.
 
Made from a safe, drug-free formula of polyethylene glycols, it's a gentle gel which prevent the cold sore virus from infecting healthy lip cells to produce cold sores - just apply it twice a day to the outer edge of your lips - morning and night and it will dramatically reduce the frequency of cold sore outbreaks - because the tube is tiny, it's easy to take on the go so you never have to miss a treatment - one tube lasts about 2 months.

I'm a cold sore sufferer so I was happy to see this show up in my mail box, it's hard to say if it's effective since you will only know it works when nothing happens - but I can say that it's very pleasant to use, unlike most of the cold sore treatments I deal with, this has no medicinal smell, it actually smells sweet and tastes like lemon!



Visit lipivir.ca to purchase online and for retail availability.

- Lisamarie-

Test Driving - Crest 3D White Whitestrips Supreme FlexFit!

3 common whitening complaints solved by one little box of whitestrips...

Crest 3D White Whitestrips Supreme FlexFit - 42 strips - $79.99 - whiten as well as a $500 professional laser treatment to give you a megawatt smile with exclusive FlexFit technology that allows the strips to stretch, covering 30% more surface and molds to custom fit your smile.

My complaint - I have had Zoom Whitening and every 3 months I have to do a touch-up using gel in trays worn overnight for 3 nights - messy, uncomfortable, I'm not really a fan...

Crest 3D Whitestrips are used once a day for 1 hour - for full benefits you would use them for 21 days but for maintenance, 7 days is perfect so a box of the strips lasts me 9 months!

My friend Anna's complaint - other strips she has used slide around in her mouth so she doesn't get the full whitening effect on all her teeth or she basically had to stop talking to keep them in place...

Crest 3D Whitestrips Advanced Seal Technology’s no slip grip stays put so you can talk and drink water while whitening teeth - Anna was skeptical but had to agree that these suckers really grip and stay where they are supposed to - she was really happy with how even the whitening was with these - no blotchy spots from where the gel didn't adhere to the teeth properly!

My friend George's complaint - other strips he has tried make his teeth uncomfortably sensitive so he never ends up using the full treatment...

The Crest 3D Whitestrips use the same enamel-safe teeth whitening ingredients dentists use - if you are prone to sensitivity though, start off by using them every other day - which is what George did, after the first week he started using them everyday and got through the box with no issues!

Available now at drug and mass retailers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Caryl Baker Power C+ Facial by Skeyndor

Caryl Baker Visage has partnered with global skin care leader, Skeyndor to introduce three new corrective and progressive, state-of-the-art solutions to skin concerns and anti-aging with in-salon Professional Power Skin Care Treatments that deliver superior antioxidant protection and help support the skin's own renewal processes and rejuvenation including: Power C+ - to brighten and protect; Power Hyaluronic - to maximize hydration; and Power Retinol - to repair and rejuvenate.

I am all about the brightening so I spent an hour at the Vaughan Mills location with the lovely Angie and experienced the joy of:

Caryl Baker Power C+ Facial by Skeyndor - 60 minutes - $120 - an intensive, advanced treatment for all skin types that effectively treats fine lines, full and tired skin, photo damage and pigmentation for amazing radiance and luminosity as well as helping firm the skin for superior anti-aging benefits.

It's a 9-step treatment that left me refreshed and glowing:

1. Impurities and makeup are removed from eyes and lips with Aquatherm Sensitive Eye Makeup Remover - a gentle, effective gel  formulated with hamamelis water, pre-biotic sugars and pumpkin extract;

2. Skin's entire surface is thoroughly lathered with a purifying and exfoliating cleaner Resurfacing Peel Cleansing Gel - formulated with A-hydroxy acids and enzyme protease to dissolve dead cells and help stimulate cell renewal;

3. A fine mist of refreshing and restorative mineral spring water AquaTherm Thermal Concentrate Water is sprayed over the entire face to reninforce the skin's barrier, instantly diminishing discomfort and tightness, plus soften and restore skin's natural balance;

4. A 2ml ampoule of Pure C Concentrate 15% - ascorbic acid vitamin C combined with phytic and ellagic acids is massaged into skin with relaxing, gentle pressure and pumping strokes to help absorption to quickly improve skin's brightness and radiance plus provides antioxidant protection;

6. 8ml of an enriched Pomegranate Concentrate 6% is completely massaged into skin to complement the activity of the concentrated Pure C with a boost of anti-free radical action;

7. A thick layer of creamy Aloe Vera Mask with a formula enhanced with German chamomile plant extract is massaged into skin and absorbed during ten relaxing minutes, then thoroughly removed with warm water and gauze - a natural antiseptic, it soothes, refreshes and hydrates skin;

8. Another light spray of refreshing AquaTherm Thermal Concentrate Water is applied to restore skin and balance pH levels;

9. Finally, Energizing Cream SPF15 with a moisturizing formula of 3% high absorption vitamin C derivative and 3% pomegranate HG extract is massaged into skin to hydrate, help support collagen production, illuminate and unify skin tone while protecting skin from sun damage.

They recommend doing the facials in a series of 3 or 4 a few weeks apart - I had a chance to have 2 of them and I really can see the cumulative effects - my skin is brighter, softer and a few red marks I had from past acne disappeared much quicker then they normally would have! I am going to recommend for the peacefulness of your facial that you not going during the day on a Saturday - while the mall locations of CBV are very convenient, it also tends to make it very loud during busy periods - next time I'm going during the day on a Tuesday!

And if Vitamin C isn't your thing, you can check out one of the other Caryl Baker by Skeyndor facials available/coming your way:

Power Hyaluronic - $140 - available now - an intensive, advanced hydrating treatment for all skin types that effectively combats dehydration on multiple levels to plump and help improve skin's structure to treat fine lines and wrinkles and diminish build-up of dead skin cells and irregularities.

Power Retinol - $140 - coming in October - an intensive, advanced treatment for all skin types, especially mature to effectively treat and repair natural and photo-aged skin to reduce wrinkles, dark spots, pigmentation, scars and enlarged pores.

Available at Caryl Baker Visage Face Spas in Ontario and Alberta.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - Grace & Stella Dr. Pedicure Foot Exfoliating Mask

Grace & Stella Dr. Pedicure Foot Exfoliating Mask - $14.95 - get rid of rough, dull feet with an innovative foot care product that will unbelievably shed the old, dead, callused skin right off your feet.

The formula contains 17 types of natural vegetable extracts help relieve fatigue and give energy to the feet along with skin smoothing and moisturizing ingredients to get rid of coarse, dull and dead skin.

It's easy to use just clean your feet, cut open the plastic booties and put one on each feet. They come with fasteners that are supposed secure them around your ankle but mine wouldn't stick so it was much easier to just slip on a pair of socks over the booties to keep them in place and relax for an hour. After one hour remove the booties and wash your feet with soap and water and then soak feet in plain water of another 15 minutes.

The dead skin cells will begin to peel from 5-7 days after the initial application and they recommend soaking your feet in water every day for the first 7 days after using. You are also not supposed to moisturize your feet during the peeling process as the treatment is meant to completely kill and dry the top layer of skin.

There was no way I was actually taking a picture of my own snake feet so enjoy these ones off of the site - you are not supposed to forcibly remove the dead skin on your feet but rather let it peel off naturally - but there was no way I could resist peeling away - so my feet never actually looked like day 3 - there was a disgusting amount of dead skin bits all around the couch though - they are all nice and lovely like day 7 now though perfectly soft and smooth!

Available online at graceandstella.com.

- Lisamarie -

Test Driving - L'Oréal Professionnel Hairchalk!

L'Oréal Professionnel Hairchalk - 50ml - $25 - in 8 shades: Sweet Sixteen Pink, First Date Violet, Blue Ocean Cruise, Garden Party, Coral Sunset, Coffee Break, Bronze Beach and Black Tie - that offer all the joy of off-beat colour without permanent results.

They call it a chalk but it's really a liquid which makes for quite a different application experience compared to the traditional chalks that I've tried before. They recommend applying it with a sponge but I found that more of the colour ended up in the sponge then on my hair so instead I held a piece of paper towel under the section of hair I was colouring, poured the colour directly on my hair and then used the paper towel to spread the colour over the whole section - it was a little messy but worked better then the sponge. My only caution, don't wear a good shirt to do it you are going to get a bit messy!

I gave the Coral Sunset shade a try but with my dark auburn hair it probably wasn't the best choice, it really didn't show except in certain lights - something more dramatic like blue or green would have had more impact. If you have light hair though you can pretty much take your pick of shades - it's all going to show! 

Once the weekend is over and you have to go back to work au naturel or are ready to change shades, it's gone in a couple of shampoos - and while it is there, you don't have to worry about it rubbing off on your pillowcase at night or flaking off your hair - it really is colour without any fuss or commitment!

Available exclusively at salons across Canada - find one near you at: www.lorealprofessionnel.ca.

- Lisamarie -