See which items from this luxe brand are worth the splurge and which one product you shouldn't spend a dollar on. |
 Just because a product comes with the name Chanel, does that mean it's worth the hefty price tag? We set out to discover the truth by asking TotalBeauty.com readers to share their skin care product reviews, mascara reviews and more to help you decide which products from the designer brand you should invest in. See products |
Best & Worst Chanel Products
Week of Beauty Products (4): Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
What is it? Neutorgena's Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask "is a breakthrough acne-fighting formula that can be used two ways: - As a Daily Cleanser to kill the bacteria that can cause blackheads and breakouts. Gently massage the rich creamy lather over skin and rinse with water.
- As an Intensive Mask for deep cleansing and extra oil control. Smooth an even layer over skin, allowing the formula to penetrate for up to 5 minutes before rinsing with water. You'll feel it's cooling intensity build as it penetrates into the pores."
What did you think? I used this both ways--as a face wash and as a mask. As a fave wash, I found this product to be over-drying. I don't have acne-prone skin and prefer something a bit more gentle for an everyday cleanser.
As a mask, this product is much better. It goes on cool and then kind of tingles as it sits. I guess the tingle is how you know it's working? Anyway, it leaves my skin feeling very clean and like I dunked my face in menthol. And that's not a negative comment!
Be careful with this product for two reasons:
1) It can make your skin dry out. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer if necessary.
2) It contains benzoyl peroxide so it can stain or discolor fabrics (especially towels....just ask me how I know!).
The final verdict? It's a good price and it's made by normally reliable Neutrogena, so that's a plus. Watch out for over-drying (and be careful with your towels) and you're set. I would recommend it for use as a mask to avoid the over-drying issue.
My first ELF Studio Cosmetics products
Hello! I know I've hardly post anything new in the past few days. I haven't had too much time to blog because well, my kids started the new semester at school. That alone means crazy time around my house. I also had to deal with one of them having an eye infection and then I had a mini car accident, nothing serious but still... Ahh, all crazy, I tell you!
Anyway, I recently ordered some ELF products from their Studio Line. I think I spent like $16 USD for what I consider a lot of good stuff. Yes, I already tried most of them and I AM impressed. Now, I will start by telling you my that thoughts about these products are profoundly affected by how cheap they are. So based in that, I think the products are really amazing.
I liked how smooth the whole the transaction went: I placed an order and received it in less than 7 calendar days. I paid with Paypal and since I didn't have an account to check my order status, I sent ELF an email which was quickly replied with the info I required. Shipping was free, I used one of ELF coupons. So that was a good start.
**All Pics Are Clickable**
Here's what I got:
1. HD Loose Powder -- $ 6.00
2. Contouring Blush&Bronzing Powder -- $ 3.00
3. Blush in Candid Coral -- $ 3.00
4. Eyelash & Eyebrow Brush -- $ 1.00
5. Studio Powder Brush -- $ 3.00
The HD Powder goes on invisible as they say. It does have a small amount of reflective particles but nothing that will make you look like a disco ball. No strong smell, super smooth texture and it controls oil really really well. The packaging is beautiful but I recommend keeping the plastic protector that the powder comes with (covering the small holes) so the it doesn't get all out. If not...well, I imagine it can get really messy. This product hasn't broke me out so that's super good.
The Contouring Blush&Bronzing Powder supposedly is a NARS Blush/Bronzing Duo dupe. I don't know about that but I think it is pretty good, I really like the colors! The powder is not as finely milled as I would like and the compact can get a bit messy. But I do not care about that. Lovely packaging, very elegant. The blush does have a tiny bit of shimmer in it.
The Candid Coral blush is quite good too, but I don't love it just because the color is similar to the blush in the blush&bronzing duo, they look almost the same on my NC 35-37 skintone. Texture is the same as the products on the Duo, can be considered a bit chalky, pigmentation is decent.
Oh, I read about the blush of the Blush&Bronzing Powder Duo being similar to NARS Orgasm Blush. It is not. Orgasm is more pink and has more shimmer. Here are some swatches of the products.
About the brushes, I just had to try the Studio Powder Brush. Wow, it is ridiculously soft. I haven't used it yet, it looks promising. I'm looking to use it for foundation, powders and blending products on my skin. I wanted the spoolie brush just to have it on my makeup bag at all times and hey, it was just a buck. =)
All in all, I'm very satisfied with my haul. Hope my pictures are helpful to you.
¡Hasta luego mi gente!
Week of Beauty Products (3): Knu Anti-Aging Tri-Complex
What is it? Michael Todd's Knu Anti-Aging Tri-Complex is "the first cream in the United States to include this amazing anti-aging breakthrough. The cream has a high concentration of purified snail secretion manufactured exclusively for Michael Todd in an FDA Registered Facility here in the U.S. Research published in The International Society of Skin Pharmacology Journal reveals the regenerative properties of snail secretion and its effects on human skin. Scientists have concluded that this same substance can aid many human skin disorders because of its regenerative properties, considering it a real breakthrough in natural skin treatment. According to the study, snail secretion protects against free radicals, environmental pollution and UV radiation.
KNU is luxuriously rich and creamy, not greasy or oily, with a fresh clean smell and is rapidly absorbed into the skin where it can go to work." Available online for $130.
The cream is thick and luxurious and a little goes a long way. Because it's winter, my skin is dryer and at times flakier than I'd like. Lovely, huh? KNU seems very moisturizing--it clears up my flaky patches with very little product. I just put some on, and when I run my fingers over my cheek, they seem softer.
I cannot yet attest to the anti-aging properties of this product. I'll need to give it more time (I've only been using it for a week) to see how it plays out.
The final verdict? Again, I need to give this one a little more time to really see what it can do. It does feel good going on and so far I'm happy with the results. Snail snot! Who knew?
I just wish it wasn't quite so expensive!
Week of Beauty Products (2): Shielding Lotion
What is it? Skin MD Shielding Lotion "is far more effective as a dry skin treatment than conventional moisturizing lotions or protective creams. If you suffer from dry skin, you know that just using a moisturizing lotion does not solve the problem. A shielding lotion does much more than just treat dry skin – it is a new kind of skin care product that makes a real difference to all skin types. Skin MD Natural is promptly absorbed, without the slightest hint of any greasy or oily feeling or residue, transforming the outer layer of skin into a hydrating invisible shield." Available online for less than $20 a bottle (I saw it as high as $18 and as low as $10--shop around).
What did you think? At first I was nervous about using a product designed for "face, hands, and body" on my face. I was scared that it would be too heavy. I was gladly mistaken.My husband uses this product every day (I've used it occasionally), so his review of the product was important to me. He says the product absorbs easily into his skin. He doesn't feel greasy--or, as he puts it, "sweaty,"--after applying it. He says the dry patches on his skin are minimized after using it, so it does exactly what a moisturizer is meant to do.
Another plus is that it's fragrance-free and it is not tested on animals.
I found that I had a hard time figuring out how much of the product to use at first. It seemed that when I applied the product, I had too much on my skin. But after a few minutes, my skin seemed to have sucked up the moisturizer and felt a bit tight--a bit in need of more moisturizer. (I don't need to point out that my husband and I have different skin types!) After a few days of using it, I figured out how much to use...problem solved.
The final verdict? I really do like the fact that this can be used on all skin--face, hands, body, etc. I'm a fan of a multi-tasker, so I say give this one a try!
Week of Beauty Products (1): One Essential
What is it? Dior's Capture Totale One Essential Skin Boosting Serum is Dior's "most advanced, scientifically proven skincare to help maximize the results of all age-defying skincare routines. One Essential Skin Boosting Super Serum helps to detoxify skin cells to powerfully correct all visible signs of aging and renew skin's youthful appearance. Applied before any other skincare products, One Essential boosts their effectiveness and extends the benefits over time. The skin regains its vitality, becomes more luminous, smoother and visibly younger-looking." Available where Dior skincare products are found (high-end department stores like Nordstrom's) for $95.
What did you think? Let me first say that I did not pay for this product. I received a sample from the Dior folks and have been using the product for about a month. $95 is a lot of money...I am very much aware of that.
I used this product twice a day--morning and night--before using any of my other products. It goes on lightly and has a pleasant, delicate scent. I only used a small amount of the product each time, and it absorbed well into my skin. I didn't feel like I was over-moisturized or greasy feeling.
My skin seemed smoother and more balanced after this product. I don't have tons of wrinkles yet (emphasis on the yet!) but I did notice that my areas of concern (I have a crease above my nose, and my eyes and mouth area are always a concern!) seemed smoother, tighter.
The final verdict? I think I need to continue to use the product to fully get the benefit. I do like the product, but I really don't like the idea of spending $95 on one skin product. It's effective, it's a pleasure to use, but I do think it's cost prohibitive.
About This Week
Since my blog's inception (waaaay back in 2006), I have traditionally featured a "Beauty Product of the Week." This week is going to be a little different. I have a lot of material to blow through, so instead of just one Beauty Product of the Week, I am going to be doing a Week of Beauty Products.
Slick, huh?'
This week will feature a bunch of reviews of skin care products. Enjoy!
And, as always, if you have any beauty questions, want to suggest a product, etc. you can either leave me a comment or send me an email (asklydia@hotmail.com).
Slick, huh?'
This week will feature a bunch of reviews of skin care products. Enjoy!
And, as always, if you have any beauty questions, want to suggest a product, etc. you can either leave me a comment or send me an email (asklydia@hotmail.com).
Hope For Haiti . .
The telethon, put together by George Clooney, hopes to raise millions for the earthquake survivors in Haiti. George Clooney pledged $1 million of his own money as well as Leonardo DiCaprio.Donations are still being accepted at https://www.hopeforhaitinow.org or by calling 1-877-99-HAITI.
WyclefBeyonce
Jay-Z, Rihanna , Bono
Mary J. Blidge
Madonna
MOB's fav couple, Ye-Ber!
Lol, get it Ye-Ber (Kanye-Amber)! well this couple were found spotted at few shows in Paris.Paris shows seem to bring out the best in Kanye and Amber. Maybe it’s because they’re more conscious of how they appear and unlike most folks these days, are not in the least bit afraid of making a statement. They’re arriving at LV in the photo on the left and YSL on the right.
Shoe-Gasim with L.A.M.B.
These wonderful shoe caught my eye as soon as I was on the website. Shout out to Gwen for these stunning Zan Sandals by LAMB who prove that a contemporary footwear label can get on the strappy bootie trend and still come up with something different instead of outright copying the Givenchys, Lanvins and Balmains. Available at heels.com & at zappos in brown.
Long Sleeve Wedding Dress
Wedding dresses with short sleeves, spaghetti straps or those that are sleeveless are definitely getting more popular. A lot of brides now seem to prefer baring their arms. A bride however, should never forget that a long sleeve wedding dress is also still a good option. Why would anyone want to have a long sleeve wedding dress?
Classic History
Wedding dresses have been around for as long as weddings have been. We all know of course that a woman of long ago only had one dress option, a long sleeve wedding dress. It can perhaps be safely assumed that since the medieval era, the long sleeve wedding dress effectively gave off the message of female modesty. A traditional medieval long sleeve wedding dress would have a fully closed neckline and sleeves that went down to cover the fingers. The ancient long sleeve wedding dress however was also a statement of fashion. A wealthy bride could have a long sleeve wedding dress of velvet and damask with trimmings of satin and silk. As part of fashion, sleeve tips could extend down to the floor.
Modern Elegance
The modern long sleeve wedding dress need not follow its ancient look. A present day long sleeve wedding dress does not have to look ancient or vintage at all but still convey female modesty. Long sleeves can easily imply a highly ladylike and modest look regardless of the bodice and neckline cut. It can also effectively bring out the impression of elegant formality.
Basic Purpose
A long sleeve wedding dress has one basic purpose which is to draw attention to your upper parts. If you have hips that are either too full or too small, you may want to draw eyes to your chest and arms instead. Having long sleeves is also a great solution to square shoulders and big arms.
Modern Modesty
Some brides may still prefer a long sleeve wedding dress design simply because of modesty. You can have full long sleeves of the same material as your dress and a simple round neckline. It is possible however to still look modest but also daringly modern. Have the sleeves made of a lighter mesh material and then pick an off the shoulder neckline. You also have the option of a portrait neckline or a low v-neck cut.
For All Seasons
A ¾ or full long sleeve made of the same material as your bodice can help keep you warm and comfortable in a winter wedding. You may still however have an elegant long sleeve wedding dress even in summer. Choose light materials like chiffon and organza if you think the weather will be warm on your wedding day.
Avoid Only If
Elegant long sleeves are unfortunately not for every bride. You should avoid having a long sleeve wedding dress if you are small in stature. You will look out of proportion with a long sleeve wedding dress. You should also just consider having a sleeveless gown if you have beautiful, well-toned arms.
Classic History
Wedding dresses have been around for as long as weddings have been. We all know of course that a woman of long ago only had one dress option, a long sleeve wedding dress. It can perhaps be safely assumed that since the medieval era, the long sleeve wedding dress effectively gave off the message of female modesty. A traditional medieval long sleeve wedding dress would have a fully closed neckline and sleeves that went down to cover the fingers. The ancient long sleeve wedding dress however was also a statement of fashion. A wealthy bride could have a long sleeve wedding dress of velvet and damask with trimmings of satin and silk. As part of fashion, sleeve tips could extend down to the floor.
Modern Elegance
The modern long sleeve wedding dress need not follow its ancient look. A present day long sleeve wedding dress does not have to look ancient or vintage at all but still convey female modesty. Long sleeves can easily imply a highly ladylike and modest look regardless of the bodice and neckline cut. It can also effectively bring out the impression of elegant formality.
Basic Purpose
A long sleeve wedding dress has one basic purpose which is to draw attention to your upper parts. If you have hips that are either too full or too small, you may want to draw eyes to your chest and arms instead. Having long sleeves is also a great solution to square shoulders and big arms.
Modern Modesty
Some brides may still prefer a long sleeve wedding dress design simply because of modesty. You can have full long sleeves of the same material as your dress and a simple round neckline. It is possible however to still look modest but also daringly modern. Have the sleeves made of a lighter mesh material and then pick an off the shoulder neckline. You also have the option of a portrait neckline or a low v-neck cut.
For All Seasons
A ¾ or full long sleeve made of the same material as your bodice can help keep you warm and comfortable in a winter wedding. You may still however have an elegant long sleeve wedding dress even in summer. Choose light materials like chiffon and organza if you think the weather will be warm on your wedding day.
Avoid Only If
Long Sleeve Wedding Dress
Elegant long sleeves are unfortunately not for every bride. You should avoid having a long sleeve wedding dress if you are small in stature. You will look out of proportion with a long sleeve wedding dress. You should also just consider having a sleeveless gown if you have beautiful, well-toned arms.
Just a short reminder...
Two things:
1. Don't forget to vote on my latest poll: "Do you prefer a bar of soap or a body wash (any brand) when bathing?" located just below the "About me" section at the left of your screen.
2. Remember to keep donating to Haiti, not only because of the earthquake, but also for the fact that this is a country that had lived in extreme poverty for years and years. Its people really need our generosity. I know, you may think "sure, now everybody is helping, what about before the earthquake?" I say, well for some reason this tragedy has happened --there have been other subsequent earthquakes too-- so we need to focus on the now and aid them in any way possible. And we need to understand that they require long-term help.
Image: Photobucket.com
Have a wonderful weekend!
¡Lindo fin de semana!
¡Vivan, amen y rían!
