Chorus Supernatural Skin Care

A couple of mths ago the ppl at Chorus Supernatural Skin Care reached out to me about trying some
products from their line.  Whenever I'm asked to review a product - especially skin care related I like to really use the product for awhile so that I can provide a really honest opinion about the products and how they worked for me.

Well I've been using the products for a couple of mths now so I can honestly say I REALLY like them!  And one of the coolest things about the brand (at least to me) is that it's from Canada and manufactured in Richmond B.C.  I do like to support Canadian companies whenever possible so this was definitely a bonus w/ the brand.

Of course if the products themselves weren't good that wouldn't have mattered but thankfully they are! Also, important to a lot of ppl these days who are concerned about what they put on their skin or ingest into their bodies - Chorus is 100% natural source ingredients.  It's free from petro-chemicals, artificial fragrance and colour. Plus not only do they promise premium quality ingredients in their products but they are also some of the safest in the industry as rated by the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep website.

The 4 Key Ingredients that are the basis of everything they make are:

Lithia - A clean, untainted spring water that emerges high on a mountainside in the Rockies of British Columbia. This is some of the purest water on the planet, with a significant level of naturally occurring lithium.

Moor - A rare, nutrient-rich peat, created by the gradual transformation of herbs, plants & flowers that have been submerged beneath the Earth's surface for many thousands of years.

Seaweed - Hand-harvested giant kelp, from the cold, pristine waters off the northern tip of Vancouver Island. 

Clay - One of the most mineral-rich clays in the world, obtained from ancient volcanic caves and mountain slopes on the western shores of Vancouver Island.

 Because my skin is ALWAYS on the oily/combination side I tried out skincare specific to my skin concerns.

Facial Mask - The product is 100% organic and natural and consists purely of moor peat and water. Just mix a teaspoon of it w/ a couple of drops of water and rub onto the skin.  I really liked how soft it made my skin feel plus I find anything clay based really helps suck out some of the excess oil in my pores.  If you rub it into your skin when your washing it off you also get a nice, gentle exfoliation and it's not so drying that my skin felt tight or uncomfortable afterward.

 Cleansing Gel - It's a low foaming, hypoallergenic cleanser w/ key ingredients of moor, seaweed extract, tea tree oil, lavendar, lemongrass and ylang-ylang.  I LOVE how this product smells.  For a product that has not artificial fragrance this smells so good and I feel better knowing that the smell is from natural ingredients not chemicals.  It feels refreshing on the skin and just like the mask it doesn't make my skin feel tight or uncomfortable but it does a good job and cleansing it.

Clarify Moisturizer - Out of the 3 products I tried this is BY FAR my favourite of the 3!  It's oil free, lightly hydrating and great for acne prone adults (aka ME).  It absorbs excess oil, refines skin and reduces the appearance of enlarged pores.  It also creates a MATTE finish on the skin which for an oily person like me is a perfect starting canvas for my morning routine.  I really loved the way it made my skin feel - smooth and matte but again not tight or uncomfortable like it was over drying it. I'd definitely recommend this moisturizer to oily skin people!








All the products are very affordable in my opinion - especially considering the high quality ingredients involved.  All the products I tried came in under $23.00 Canadian/product.  You can buy them online and there is a growing number of retailers carrying the products.  If you look on their site you can see them.  Definitely a skincare brand I would recommend looking into!

Collectiion XXII - Anti-Aging Skincare

As I get older I'm more and more concerned w/ aging and the signs of aging showing up on my face in particular.  So whenever I get the chance to try out new anti-aging products I of course jump on that.  Awhile back I was asked to test out some new products from a company called Collection XXII who are based in Quebec but formulated in Switzerland.  They are new to the anti-aging market just coming on the scene in 2009 w/ a single product.  Since then they've taken the past 4 years to formulate 4 products in total and are continuing to develop more.  I like when brands take time to develop and formulate a couple of good products vs. throwing a lot of mediocre products on the market just to create a "full line" to retail.

So all of their products are infused w/ their 4 "Secrets" which include: Collagen, Cavier, Gold & Grape Seed Oil.

Collagen - Helps skin's elasticity and helps prevent wrinkles. As we age collagen in the skin breaks down creating wrinkles, saggy skin and age spots.

Gold - Absorbs into the skin and creates a healthier glow.  Collection XXII gold flakes help open up the pores which helps the collagen penetrate the skin which makes for a more effective treatment.

Cavier - Helps to speed up the natural  production of collagen in the skin.  It's also rich in vitamins A, D, B1, B2, and micro-elements Co, Cu, P, Si, Zn.  Cavier extract helps firm the skin and provide optimal hydration.

Grape Seed Oil - Provides protection against sun damage and the astringent properties can tighten the skin.  It can really help with things like acne, dermatitis and eczema.  It also helps reduce age spots, stretch marks, sunburns and wrinkles.

The first product I got to try out was the Collagen Eye Mask XXII.  The patch targets the delicate area under the eyes and it helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines and diminish dark circles and puffiness. Pretty much issues all women (and men) face.  I really liked these patches and definitely felt that they were hydrating to the eye area.  I can't speak about any long term results as I only had the one set of patches to try the one time but I definitely felt like the skin around the eye was softer and more moisturized.  I'd definitely use these on or recommend these to brides on their wedding day.  A lot of brides don't get a lot of sleep before their wedding so I think a product like this would be great for moisturizing and de-puffing the eye area which would allow for better and smooth makeup application after.

I also got the chance to try Collagen Lip Mask XXII.  This patch also reduces fine lines and wrinkles by softening and hydrating the skin.  I had never used a patch like this before so this was unique to me.  Again like the eye patch I found it very hydrating.  I don't personally have a lot of wrinkles around the mouth area so I don't know if it would benefit me in that way but I imagine for someone who is a smoker something like this might be very beneficial to them as they tend to develop more or premature wrinkles around the mouth area.

Miracle 10 Skincare and Peel

A few mths ago I had the pleasure of attending an awesome blogger event at the Miracle 10 Skincare Spa in Yorkville.  During the event we got to learn about the latest in skincare and makeup trends as well as have your own skin analyzed and assessed by the Miracle 10 skincare specialists.  At the end of the event we all received full size bottles of the Miracle 10 skincare system based on our skin type and needs.  We also were lucky enough to get a complimentary skin peel to be booked on another day! So overall I have to say a pretty awesome event w/ some pretty awesome swag!

I went away to Central America for 3 wks right after the event so I didn't want to start using the skincare system until I got back.  Plus I had to wait until the New Year to book my first peel b/c I was going to be in the sun a lot on my trip and you can't do a peel if you're going to be/or have been in the sun a lot.

For products in our gift bag we got to try out:

Cleanser - Cleansing dirt, oil, makeup etc. from the skin
Solution - For exfoliating and toning the skin
Sunscreen - Water and Sweat resistant, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and offers protection against premature aging and sun damage
AHA Gel - Advanced exfoliator that reduces build up of dead, lifeless skin.  Helps brighten the skin and improve the overall tone and texture of the skin - probably my fav. product in the system - also please be aware it may cause a bit of burning or itching when it's first applied (at least it does for me)
Light Serum - Hydrates and Soothes the skin.  Also helps to reduce fine lines and doesn't leave a greasy residue which is great for oily skin

So as you can see they were MORE than GENEROUS with their swag bag!  Also, feel free to check out their FAQs - it has lots of great answers about the products!

Anyone who reads this blog knows I do not have great skin...in fact especially considering my age I'd say it's quite problematic :( and I'm not going to lie here...it took about a mth for my skin to get use to the system and during that time my skin actually got worse...like a lot worse than it's been in ages! So bad that when I went to get my peel the woman giving it actually called in another esthetician to get a second opinion on some of the very deep/painful pimples I was getting.  They both agreed that I should stick w/ the system as it was probably just really deep cleaning my skin and pulling out/drawing the the surface a lot of the dirt, congestion and bacteria that's deep within my skin.

My skin has improved a lot since that first peel.  In fact I've now had 3 peels at the clinic and I really like what it's doing for my skin!


I've never actually had a peel before a couple of mths ago so it was a really cool process to me and my esthetician was great about talking me through all the steps and explaining what each step was for and the benefits of it.  I actually just had another peel yesterday and this time I took some pics and video of the process (which is also why there was a delay in my post...I wanted to wait till I had another peel).

It first started w/ cleansing of the skin and then next we did an optional (but actually my favourite) step called dermaplaning - it's an exfoliation treatment where a very fine blade is run over the face in order to remove dead skin and fine vellus hair (peach fuzz).  Afterward, I do find my makeup goes on the skin smoother and no you don't have to worry about hair growing back thicker or coarser on the face.

I actually took a short video of the procedure which you can see here!

After that the peel is applied to the skin.  I started w/ the most gentle lactic peel but last time I did the 30% Glycolic Peel..my skin is red for a bit after the procedure but it's nothing a little makeup can't fix.  And it's not that painful.  A little stingy but it's only on for a minute and w/ the fan blowing on my face I personally don't find it that bad at all. 

After that a soothing and hydrating mask is placed on the skin which is very cooling and relaxing after the peel.

After that they do this sort of neat dry ice type thing which is anti-inflammatory and helps disinfects the area...in this pic you'll see the "redness" from the peel.

I've already got my next peel booked at the Yorkville Miracle 10 Spa...definitely worth checking out!

Cocolush Natural Skin Care

I LOVE Coconut...basically anything that coconuts make or smell like I'm all over it...seriously - if a body wash, scrub, cream etc. smells like coconut or a tropical vacation I'm probably adding it to my shopping cart!  So when Cocolush Natural Skin Care contacted me offering to send me a sample of their Cocolush Body Scrub you better believe I was like "Hell Yeah"!

What I love about ALL of their products is how natural they are...no fillers or artificial ingredients! Vegan, Gluten & Paraben Free plus no preservatives.  They don't test on animals and their products smell so good I actually want to eat them...and I probably could (although the argan oil might not be the best lol)!

All the ingredients in their products have a purpose...they aren't just put there for no reason.  For moisture they have coconut oil and argan oil plus Vitamin E oil which is a strong antioxidant which helps fight against premature aging and wrinkles.  Sea Salt for exfoliation and Epsom Salt a natural detoxifier and reduces inflammation.  Cocoa Powder increases blood flow to the skin and is also full of antioxidants.  And Cinnamon (another personal fav of mine) which is actually great for acne and eczema.  So basically these products are full of stuff that's good for your skin...and smells so freaking yummy!

The skin care line is small but I like that...just keep it simple w/ a few good, quality products.  I tested out the Cocolush body scrub and it was so moisturizing on the skin...and as I've mentioned several times before already smelled so good!  My only small gripe is a wish there was a bit more salt or grit to the scrub...I felt like it broke down on the skin a little too soon before I really got the scrubbing effect in...but this would be great for sensitive skin!  And I did like how moisturized it left me feeling.

They also have a lip scrub which I imagine would be hard not to just lick right off your lips and Chocolate Peppermint Facial Teas for steaming, detoxifying and moisturizing of the skin (not drinking ;))  The whole line is super affordable ranging anywhere from $6 CAN for the Lip Scrub to $14.00 for the Body Scrub.  Plus the body scrub comes in a resealable waterproof bag making it great for the shower!  There's Free Shipping Across Canada so definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a really yummy, natural product for your skin!

Skindinavia - Great Products from Beginning To End!

A few mths back I heard about Skindinavia on a makeup artist forum.  Many artists were raving about their setting spray and w/ wedding season right there I thought why not give them a try!

Often times one of the biggest compliments I can get as an artist is when a bride comes back to me and says my makeup looked amazing even at the end of the night!  In fact some of my favourite pictures are the ones where I see the bride at the reception dancing it up looking as flawless and beautiful as she did 10 or 12 hrs earlier when I first applied the makeup.  Having the makeup last through the heat, tears and kisses of a wedding is also one of the biggest concerns for brides so having a good setting spray to give it that extra bit of hold is always a good thing.  I always tell brides - It's like hairspray for the face (except a lot less sticky) ;) and in fact sometimes I think just the idea of using a setting spray at the end of the makeup applications helps the bride feel more secure and confident that her makeup is going to last...and when I'm doing it it always does ;)

But Skindinavia doesn't just have a setting spray - they also have a Primer too!  Basically, they are hitting your face w/ their Temperature Control Technology in the beginning and end of the makeup application. For those that are wondering what exactly "Temperature Control Technology" is and how it works follow this link.

The benefits of this technology include:  Oil Control, Diminished Shine, Skin retains moisture longer, Keeps makeup fresh throughout the day and prevents colour loss.  Plus all of their products are formulated w/out Parabens and they are Hypoallergenic, Non-Comedogenic, Oil-Free, Breathable and Lightweight on the skin.  Pretty much every person I use the primer and setting spray on comments on how refreshing and nice the mist feels on their skin at the beginning and end of the makeup appt.

The Primer is their newest product and I should also mention it's silicone free which is a major bonus for a lot of people and I know personally I sometimes find silicone primers have too much slip or can ball up on the skin.  It also helps to minimize redness, uneven skin and large pores.

One of my favourite things about Skindinavia has got to be their Pro Program!  Not only do they often have awesome Deals and Makeup Artist Kits but if you are a Pro and sign up for their Pro program and email them after you've made your order they will DOUBLE your order for FREE - YES you read that correct!!! Even if you aren't a Pro you can take advantage of their Makeup Artist Kits and great shipping rates for both USA and Canada!  I love when companies don't charge an arm and a leg to ship to Canada - I've literally not ordered from some companies b/c their shipping was ridiculous!

Another great plus is the little travel size bottles of the setting spray and/or primer that come w/ the order. I'm all about condensing my kit so I just refill those little bottles from the big bottle!

So w/ all these great benefits and the hot weather upon us I definitely think Skindinavia is a company worth checking out!

GIVEAWAY!!! FREE 60 min Facial at Saul's Beauty Shop - $100 Value

I'm hosting another giveaway and let me tell you I'm SO EXCITED about this one!  Why you ask? Well it's a really awesome prize!  I'm giving away 1 60 min facial at Saul's Beauty Shop in Toronto - Value $100.  Contest open to anyone in Toronto or GTA (if you're willing to come to Toronto for the facial) - open to Men & Women - Saul's is a gender neutral joint and they actually really really want the boys out there to start taking better care of their skin ;)

Never heard of Saul's?  Well that's probably b/c it's pretty new but can I just say it's also pretty awesome!  I personally had the pleasure of getting my own facial at Saul's last week and it was probably one of the best facials I've had..no lie!  The spot itself is located right on Dundas West near Bellwoods Ave.  It also has a totally different vibe than most spas too...almost like you're stepping into someone's cute apt...not sterile or all white...that's b/c owner Eliss wanted to create a warm and friendly environment that would appeal to both men and women...reg. spa goers as well as newbies.

Eliss has been in the aesthetics biz for years and funny enough I've actually had the pleasure of receiving her services before once or twice at Aroma Wellness Clinic.  Eliss even recognized me when I came in for my facial which was surprising b/c I'm sure she saw A LOT of ppl at Aroma so kinda nice that she remembered me even though we only met once or twice before.

What makes her place different from a lot of other spas out there is as I mentioned she's really trying to make an inviting gender neutral, unpretentious environment and in fact not only does she carry a wide range of shave products for the boys out there but she also has a conditioning mask for facial hair during the male facials...facial hair and the skin underneath it need love to you know ;)

She also only carries products that are SLS and petrochemical free...she even writes up about it here on her site.

Also...and this is probably the biggest one compared to most places I've received facials from before.  Her facials are booked in time increments instead of the type of facial.  Basically when you go in you speak to Eliss about your concerns, sensitivities and the things you want most out of a facial ie. mask, extractions, peels etc. and from there she customizes your facial based on your skin type, needs, concerns and the time increment you've paid for.

So why did I enjoy my facial so much you might be asking.  Well to start off I just really liked the vibe...I actually always liked Eliss the once or twice I had her at Aroma so I knew I was off to a good start there.  Unlike most spas she doesn't play typical waterfall or meditating music but instead it's more of an old school classic slow r&b & jazz sort of thing.  Plus using the Aromatherapy Associates spa line she customizes the masks based on what she thinks you need...maybe a bit extra oatmeal or guava etc.  I had the Rose face mask.  And this was probably the best part...during the facial a lot of times the esthetician will leave the room during the steam or mask but Eliss actually gave a hand massage, shoulder massage and finally a scalp massage all during the facial...definitely aided in my relaxation!

Eliss also offers waxing services and spray tans...I'm actually going back next week for a spray tan to get my healthy "Summer glow" on ;)  I'll be sure to tell you guys about that too!

So here's how to ENTER!  Please allow a few moments for the widget to open.  Open to Men & Women.  Toronto or GTA area ONLY!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Phyt-Age Anti-Wrinkle Cream

Whenever I'm given any sort of skincare creams to use and review I really like to take some time and use them for awhile to see if they really work...I hate when I see bloggers writing about creams and serums that they've used once :P

I was sent Phyt-Age Anti-Wrinkle Cream several weeks ago and I've definitely had a chance to use it.  One thing I can definitely say is that it's a very thick cream and a little goes a long way so you definitely get your money's worth w/ it!  I've been using it for probably 6-8 wks and there's still well over half a jar and that's w/ use once or twice a day!

As I mentioned before it is a thicker cream which is great for older more mature skin which tends to be more dry and dehydrated (which the product is targeted at...it is anti-wrinkle after all).  When the skin is dry and dehydrated wrinkles are accentuated so hydrating the skin properly is definitely the first step to smoother, younger skin.

As someone w/ minimal wrinkles and oily skin I can say even though this cream is thicker I didn't feel like it was heavy on my skin or that it made it feel greasy in anyway...it absorbed nicely into my skin.  A little does go a long way though and if you put too much you'll have some trouble rubbing it in as it is rather thick...if that happens just take the excess and rub in down to your chest area...that needs moisture too ;)

The company definitely stands behind their product and they advertise it's a risk free 30 day trial...if you don't like it send it back for a full refund!  I like when a company stands behind their product like that.

I also like that Phyt-Age is formulated w/out sulfates, parabens, gluten, mineral oil, DEA, synthetic fragrance, PABA, synthetic colour, phthalates and propylene glycol.  I also know this is important to a lot of other people too as the trend seems to be finding products w/ these least amount of harmful chemicals or additives possible.

Phyt-Age also says that it's active ingredients that rival botox, brighten the skin, provide UV protection and promote collagen stimulation.  Like I said before I don't really have many wrinkles but I will say I have been getting a lot of compliments on my skin lately.  A lot of people have said it's glowing...I don't know if I owe all the results to this cream as I've definitely been eating healthier and living a more active lifestyle which also has a big impact...but the cream definitely isn't hurting the situation.

I really suggest people check out the website to learn more about the benefits and active ingredients in Phyt-Age cream.

Kaia Naturals - Bamboo Tapioca Beads

I love multi-use products!  I'm always trying to condense and minimize pretty much everything in my life whether it's my makeup kit for work or my personal makeup kit at home so when Kaia Naturals contacted me about trying out their new Bamboo Tapioca Beads I was very excited to give them a try!

So what is this product you ask - well it's a Cleanser, Exfoliator, Mask and Makeup Remover....Yeah it pretty much does it all!  Not only that but it comes in a powder form so it's PERFECT for travel and you can throw it into your carry-on and not have to worry about any liquid restrictions for planes or messy spills in your luggage!  Plus think of how much space you could save if you only had to take one product for all of that!  Also, great to throw in your gym bag if you shower at the gym!  Not only that but it's also Gluten-Free and Cruelty-Free!

It's full of really natural and non-irritating ingredients like kaolin and tapioca root starch which help absorb oil, control shine and purge the skin of toxins and chickpea powder and bamboo which are gentle exfoliants that help soften debris to clear pores and soothe the skin.

To use the powder you just need to activate it w/ a liquid - water if you want to use it as a cleanser, exfoliator or mask and oil if you want to use it as a makeup remover.  Not just typical cooking oil though...Moringa Oil is great for all skin types and the ppl at Kaia say it's their favourite b/c it's a dry oil and won't leave any sort of residue or oilness on the skin plus it penetrates really quickly.  In fact after using it your skin might feel so good it won't even need a moisturizer!  Other liquid suggestions include Almond Oil which is great for combination skin and Blood Orange Juice also great for combination skin and it will help boost the tone of the skin!

I do like to remind ppl to not be afraid of oils on their skin.  I know a lot of ppl w/ oily skin are petrified of adding more oil to their skin but this will not make your skin more oily especially if you use a dry oil.  Plus just b/c your skin is oily doesn't mean it's not sometimes dehydrated too or just in need of a good exfoliation!

So definitely worth giving this product a try if you want something small, light weight and easy to travel with that can do the job of several products!

Skincare Trend - Konjac Sponge

It's weird how once you hear or learn about something you suddenly see and hear it popping up everywhere...that's what's been happening w/ me lately w/ Konjac Sponges!  I learned about these awesome little skincare tools last year and now they're all over the place!

So fast forward to now when Canadian/Toronto based company Natural Konjac Sponge offered to send me a couple of their sponges for review I was more than willing to do so!

So a quick little info session for those of you that are scratching your heads and saying "Konjac What?"...

Konjac Sponges are made from Konjac, a plant native to Asia - primarily Japan, Korea, China and parts of Southeast Asia.  It's a highly fibrous plant packed w/ vitamins and minerals.  Konjac sponges are a great natural, soft and gentle skincare tool that can be used by anyone - even those w/ very sensitive skin.  When dry the sponge is hard but once water is added to it the sponge softens right up and an aqueous layer forms which creates a barrier between your skin and the sponge.  This also minimizes the risk or irritation to the skin and over exfoliation.  Also, this aqueous layer is slightly alkaline which balances our skins pH level and effectively helps cleanse away oil, dirt, blackheads even without soap or cleanser!

All the sponges at Natural Konjac Sponge are handmade in Japan using 100% natural glucomannan fibers extracted from the Konjac plant.

Here's some key information and benefits taken directly from the Natural Konjac Sponge website!

Key Benefits of Natural Konjac Sponges

• Genuine Japanese Handmade Product
• 100% Natural
• 100% Biodegradable
• Suitable for ALL Skin Types
• Suitable for ALL ages
• Fragrance Free
• Suitable for Daily Use
• Contains Natural Anti-Oxidants and Minerals which are beneficial for the skin
• NO Artificial Colouring, Preservatives or Harmful & Toxic Chemical
• Cruelty-Free
• GMO-Free

Key Benefits to Your Skin:

• Deeply Cleanses Skin Pores to Remove Excess Oil, Blackheads, Dead Skin Cells and Dir
• Gently and Effectively Exfoliates Skin resulting in Smoother and Softer Skin Textures
• Nourishes and Hydrates Skin
• Balances pH Level of Skin (important in keeping skin blemish-free!)

So yeah given all these great benefits of course I liked the sponges!  Plus Natural Konjac Sponge does FREE Worldwide Shipping on order of $20 or more!  They also have several different types of sponges to try out including Natural, Charcoal (for acne/oily prone skin), Citrus (dry skin)...and several others.  Plus they also have a larger size for the body.

So this is definitely one trend I hope sticks around at transitions to a staple in everyone's skincare regime!

Clarisonic Spa Package Giveaway for CANADIANS!

For years now one of the biggest things in skincare has been the revolutionary Clarisonic brush.  Pretty much every teen, girl, woman etc. has at least heard about the fancy skincare brush that removes dirt and impurities 6x better than washing w/ your hands plus helps w/ the signs of aging and helps kick oil and dirt to the curb.

Well Clarisonic has finally launched it's own website in Canada...not quite sure what took them so long ;) and to celebrate they are having an Awesome Giveaway just for CANADIANS!  Yeah..this is exciting since so many giveaways are just for our neighbours in the US.

One lucky Winner will win a Revolutionary Spa Experience for YOU and 3 of your Friends!  A Value of $2000!

I don't actually know what this "spa experience" includes but who cares, it's a giveaway and who doesn't want a spa experience for them and their friend!

Follow the link here to ENTER!

MaskerAide Sheet Masks Review

A few weeks ago I got a lovely package in the mail from the ppl at MaskerAide who had asked me to review their amazing sheet masks.  I was really excited b/c one of my fav. beauty indulgences while in Shanghai was collecting and trying out different sheet masks.  They are sold EVERYWHERE in Asia and there are so many different brands and types and they are really affordable so it's a great "me night" activity...esp. if you're on a budget ;).

For those of you in North America who might not be that familiar w/ the concept of sheet masks.  Basically it's a cloth that has been soaked in various serums, vitamins and nutrients and has holes cut out of it for your mouth, nose and eyes...and you smooth is over your face...hence the "mask" name.  What's great about sheet masks is they are really easy to use, not messy and really portable for the "girl on the go".  Plus the mask acts as an incubator allowing the pores to open up and which allows for better absorption of the nutrients and vitamins and they are great for giving intense hydration to dry and dehydrated skin.

What makes MaskerAide masks that much better then the competition is that they are free of all:

Parabens
Harsh Dyes & Pigments
Mineral Oils
Artificial Fragrances
Benzophenone
Glycerins

They are super gentle and can be used on any skin type making them a great little gift or stocking stuffer (hey never too early to start thinking about x-mas ;) )

They come in 6 types...and lucky for me I got a box w/ all 6!

All Nighter - Awaken, Replenish & Refresh
Detox Diva - Clean, Exfoliate, Detoxify
I Don't Wanna Grow Up - Lift, Firm & Soften Fine Lines
Beauty Rest'ore - Restore, Regenerate & Repair
Weather Warrior - Calm, Soothe & Heal
Pre Party Prep - Brighten, Prime & Energize

The first one I tried was the Beauty Rest'ore.  I tried this out shortly after I had my second chemical peel.  My skin was a lot drier and more flakey after my most recent peel b/c they used a harsher peel this time.  The mask was great for soothing my skin, didn't cause any additional aggravation and it was super hydrating.  I could moisturize my skin w/ the left over cream that was on the mask.

The second one I tried was the All Nighter.  I tried this after an esp. long wedding work day.  I had been up since 3 am that day and started work just before 5 (yes for real).  I had two weddings that day and had made plans to go out that night so to say I needed a little help and relaxation before going out that night is an understatement lol!  The mask smelled good and was very cooling and invigorating on the skin.  My skin definitely felt refreshed afterward and it was a completely different feel then the Weather Warrior...at first I was concerned that all the masks might be really similar and it was just a marketing thing to come up w/ different names...but trust me they are actually very different masks.

I also tried the Detox Diva which unlike a lot of detox or clay masks didn't leave my skin feeling dry or itchy afterward.  It definitely felt clean and refreshed but also hydrated and soothed.

Tomorrow is my b-day so I've been saving the I Don't Wanna Grow Up for that b/c let's be real...I'm def. at an age where I've started to be concerned w/ my age lol...and it's my b-day so of course I deserve a little pampering ;)

I think the Weather Warrior will definitely come in handy w/ the cold weather coming upon us and all the harsh things that does to our skin and I'm saving the Pre Party Prep for a night when I actually go out to party...maybe next Sat. (I do have some fun plans in store for that night ;) )

At $4.99 a pack it's definitely affordable and like I said a great little indulgence for you or someone you know...plus at that price why not try all 6!

Colder Weather = Dry Skin

 As the weather gets cooler I find my skin (and my client's skin) gets dryer and dryer.  The cold winds and cooler temperatures wreak havoc on not only my face but also my hands.  So when Yves Rocher sent me their complete Hyrda Vegetal line to try out I was more than up for it!

What's great about this line is that it has creams, cleansers and lotions for both Normal to Combination skin and Normal to Dry skin.  Sometimes when it comes to richer, hydrating creams ppl who have oily or combination skin fear them b/c they think it's going to make their skin greasier or shinier.  In fact I've actually found a lot of ppl who think they have "oily" skin in fact have combination or severely dehydrated skin and what they actually need to do is exfoliate and moisturize their skin b/c it's so dry it's actually overcompensating and producing more oil if that makes sense.

All the creams and face washes have a nice fresh scent to them.  Nothing overpowering...very fresh and light but if you HATE scents in your product this is something to be aware of.

Both the Gel Cleanser and the Hydrating Cleansing Milk did a good job of cleaning my skin and leaving it feeling soft and smooth...esp. when used in correlation w/ my Clarisonic Mia ;)









There are two face creams:

24H Intense Hydrating Gel Cream and 24H Rich Hydrating Cream.  The first one mentioned is for Normal to Combination skin and the second is for Normal to Dry skin.  I actually had reason to try both of these creams extensively.  I would use the first one normally but I actually got a chemical peel on my face early last week which left my skin quite dry and peeling for a few days afterward and the 24H Rich Hydrating Cream was exactly what my skin needed to calm and soothe it and also help w/ the dryness and peeling.  It was very gentle on my skin as well b/c it didn't irritate it after the peel or anything which is important when choosing skincare after a clinical skin treatment.   I should also mention that both products didn't leave my skin feeling heavy or greasy even though they are both richer hydrating creams.  A lot of times when you start using heavier moisturizers I find it can clog your pores or feel really heavy on the skin and neither of these did that.

To round out the system there is also the Instant Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer which is great for an instant plumping and moisturizing on those fine line prone areas and the Hydrating Toner...which is the only thing I'm not that crazy about b/c alcohol is listed as one of the top ingredients...this is true for a lot of toners but it's also drying to the skin...so I can't say I'm a fan.

So if you're someone that suffers from dry skin and are looking for an affordable skincare system I'd definitely say check out Yves Rochers Hydra Vegetal skincare!

My Most Favourite Primer EVER!

I don't know what it is about this particular beauty product that has always interested me but even before I became a makeup artist I was on the hunt for a great primer.  Now it seems like EVERY brand of makeup has their own primer but I remember when I was first looking the mention of the product to sales girls often got me confused looks.

Over the years I have tried MANY primers...some I've liked, some not so much...but never one that I absolutely loved (kind of like my dating life lol)!  But NOW I've found my one true love (we're still talking about Primers btw...not relationships...I'm still working on that one ;) ) - Arbonne Makeup Primer!

I actually tried this primer about a yr ago...and even wrote about it on this blog.  I got a sample and I loved it then but I didn't go and buy it for myself..not sure why.  Fast forward a year, I've now taken the plunge and I'm sorry I waited so long!

For any makeup newbies or novices who are asking - What's a primer and why do I need it?

Basically, it's a product you put on before your foundation (you can wear it alone w/out foundation too btw).  It's like when you paint a wall in your house you always prime it first...primer for the face is the same kind of idea.  A good primer sort of diffuses and diminishes fine lines and pores....it just smooths out the surface of your face so that foundation lays nicer and you'll use less of it.  It also creates a barrier between your skin and your foundation and personally I find foundation lasts longer w/ it.

So what is it about this particular primer you ask?  Well first off you only need a small amount to do the entire face b/c the product is that concentrated...so yes, it might be on a little bit of the pricier side (equivalent to Smashbox Primer) but it will last you a long time so it's worth it IMO...plus remember since you're using a primer you'll need less foundation...therefore saving money there too ;).  This primer just leaves the skin feeling so smooth and silky and it really does do what it says - diminishes the appearance of fine lines and pores.

 Also in the past I've found w/ some popular primers (Smashbox I'm looking at you) they've been a bit heavy and sometimes depending on the client's skin when I've gone to put foundation over top the primer has sort of balled up or rolled off...NOT GOOD!  I've yet to experience this w/ the Arbonne Primer.  I should mention I'm not alone in calling this The Best Primer...even the readers at TotalBeauty.com agree - it was voted #1 (beating out big brands like MUFE, Smashbox & MAC) w/ an average reader rating of 9.9!

Other reasons I'm a big fan of this Primer...and other products from Arbonne:

• Hypoallergenic
• Dermatologist Tested
• PH Correct
• Vegan Certified, Peta-Approved
• No Parabens, Phthalates, Artificial Dyes, Fragrance, Mineral Oil or Formaldehyde-donating Preservatives
• A lot of their products are also Gluten Free which is becoming an important thing for a lot of ppl too
• They also have a really strong Green Commitment - responsible harvesting, don't use endangered ingredients, print w/ soy based inks when possible, recyclable packaging or packaging made from recyclable materials

So overall just a very responsible and socially conscientious brand which is cool.  Their products are available online and they have literally hundreds of other great products available.  Plus a lot of really cool deals, discounts (20% off all orders) and free products if you sign up as a Preferred Client (which is open to anyone...not just Pros..but it does have a joining fee just an FYI..but still a good investment if you plan on buying a few things).

Oh one last thing...if you don't like anything you buy w/ Arbonne you have 45 days to return it!  Yes, that's right they are so confident in their products that you have a 45 day money back guarantee...that's pretty sweet!

One thing is for sure I'm definitely going to have 2 of these Primers - 1 for Myself & 1 for my Kit b/c I'll be honest I don't want to share it w/ anyone ;)

For anyone interested here's a link to buy it!

Winter Skin Care - Olehenriksen & NEOCUTIS

About a month and a half ago I was contacted to try out and review some skincare products that are perfect for the cold harsh weather Winter (usually) brings upon us...this one has been quite mild but still our skin still takes a beating day to day being outside in the wind and cold weather.

I was really just expecting a couple of samples to come in the mail for me to try out so boy was I surprised when I received a lovely box w/ 5 FULL SIZE Olehenriksen & NEOCUTIS products to try out!  It was like Christmas after Christmas lol!

So what did I get you ask?

Olehenriksen Products

Black Currant Perfecting Complexion Oil

It's infused w/ lemon, sage, cypress and tea tree oil and it helps create an extra shield against of protection against the elements thanks to key ingredients like Blackcurrant oil and Apricot kernel oil.  It also boosts skins metabolic activity and repairs damage thanks to Vitamin E, Cypress and Lemon.

I'm not going to lie as someone w/ acne prone skin I was a littler nervous to try something w/ the word "Oil" in the name on my skin at first but you know what it really works.  I haven't been using it on my entire face just spots were I tend to get a lot of dryness and it has definitely diminished the dryness.  Esp. on the top of my nose...I get a lot of peeling there for some reason and this oil has definitely reduced that.  I also had a point in Jan. (which I'll talk about later in the blog post) where my skin was VERY dry and sensitive along my jawline.  I used the oil on my jawline and it didn't create any additional breakouts and didn't irritate the area which was already pretty sensitive.  Also I should mention it in now way made my skin greasier or left any sort of oily film on the skin after it was absorbed.  It's a small bottle but really you only need a couple of drops so a little does go a long way!

Herbal Day Creme Spf 15

A moisturizing day creme w/ spf 15 for normal/combination skin.  Key ingredients include: Chamomile Extract to sooth, renew and soften the skin, Soybean Extract and Grape Seed Oil to nourish the skin w/ essential fatty acids, Vitamin A & E to heal and renew w/ antioxidants and Lemongrass Essential Oil which helps purify and uplift the skin.


This was a nice moisturizer.  It did blend into the skin well and I didn't find it too overly rich or heavy so it's a good choice for normal/combination skin.  It has spf 15 which is SUPER important to me b/c I pretty much won't wear a moisturizer unless it has some form of SPF in it.

One thing I should mention is that all the products I tested from Olehenriksen do have somewhat strong fragrances to them from the essential oils I'm assuming.  I actually quite liked the smell of the products but if you're someone that is sensitive to such things this is definitely something to keep in mind b/c you might not like them.

Blue/Black Berry Enzyme Mask

This is a gel mask that hydrates w/ sodium hyaluronate and lavender to quench dry and sensitive skin.  Blue/Blackberry Extract renews skin cells and smoothes and refines texture.  Vitamin B5 hydrates and nourishes. Papaya Enzyme renews skin and removes dead skin cells and Hyaluronic Acids seal in skin's moisture.


The mask definitely does moisturize and nourish the skin and it did leave my skin feeling soft afterward.  You're suppose to use it twice a wk for about 15 mins each time.  My only complaint about this product is that it is a bit of a pain to get off afterward.  It does have a gel like consistency so you really do have to scrub or exfoliate your face a bit to get it off and not leave a "film" on afterward...I don't think just using your reg. facial wash would do it.  Other than that it was a nice mask and really good for the Winter months.  It's good for all skin types which is nice too!

Neocutis Products


At first when I was looking at the products I received from Neocutis I was wondering how I was going to really effectively review them b/c they seemed to be best used on post procedure skin (although they can be used anytime).  It just seemed like they were both strongly marketing themselves as great post procedure skin products...by procedure I'm assuming any sort of facial skin procedures - peels, laser treatments, botox etc.

Then I had a VERY bad skin reaction to face treatment I was doing on myself (not using any of the products mentioned here today) and it left my skin burnt, red, very dry and very irritated all along my jawline and around my mouth (this is where I've been breaking out lately...aww the joys of hormonal acne :( ).  Basically, it kind of looked like I had a red, burnt skin beard...I know VERY attractive lol!  Thankfully, I'm a makeup artist and I could cover this up w/ makeup...pretty well.

The problem was after it initially happens my skin was so raw and sore I couldn't put any skin creams on it w/out it stinging and hurting...and then it came to me!  Well bright side this would be the PERFECT time to try my Neocutis skin care products since they are specially formulated for post procedure skin...and this is basically I like unintentionally gave myself a skin peel lol.

HYALIS Refining Serum

It promises to deliver immediate moisture for youthful, radiant skin.  It's formulated w/ the highest concentration of pharmaceutical grade 1% Sodium Hyaluronate for purity and efficiency (just realized same ingredient as the Blue/Black Berry Mask).  It helps sooth and hydrate stressed, irritates skin and it helps smooth and plump skin to minimize the signs of aging.  Ideal for people using drying dermatological treatments for acne, rosacea or retinoid treatments. 


I will definitely concur w/ all of the above on this one.  It's great for all skin types which is nice but it was esp. gentle but effective on my burnt, red, sore skin.  Literally, I couldn't put any products on it w/out it stinging but I was able to put this serum on it and it did sooth and moisturize the area very effectively.  I also felt it helped almost create a barrier between my skin and other products so that after I used this and the other Neocutis Cream (I'll talk about next) I was able to put makeup on and it wasn't burning or stinging my skin.

NEOCUTIS Bio-Restorative Skin Cream

The first and original skin cream formulated w/ PSP the most complete blend of Human Growth Factors, Cytokines and Interleukins available to help improve appearance of aged skin and soothe skin.  For aging it helps improve texture and fine lines/wrinkles of skin and it also improves firmness and radiance.  It also helps promote recovery for post procedural skin.  Like the Refining Serum it is great for people using dermatological treatments for acne, rosacea or retinoid treatments.  It's best for Normal to Dry Skin Types.


Like the Serum I really liked this product.  Again it was very soft and soothing on my sensitive skin.  It's a nice consistency, not overly thick or rich which a lot of times is the case w/ skin creams meant for dry skin skin.  But it still did enrich and moisturize my skin leaving it feeling smoother and softer after I used it.  My only issue is that it doesn't have SPF and as I mentioned before it is a big thing for me when choosing a moisturizer.

So hopefully, if you're experiencing some harsh Winter skin or just overall sensitivity or dryness maybe look into these products and find something new to try!  I hope you like them as much as I did!

Cover FX - Full Coverage Without The Cakey, Heavy Feel!

Late one night after a particularly fun evening out (aka drunk night) I decided to do a little online shopping and I decided to FINALLY indulge my desire and satisfy my curiosity for some Cover FX makeup.  I've long had an interest in the brand and wanted to try their foundation and concealers that SO MANY ppl rave about but for some reason still hadn't...even though I had a 40% Pro Discount (yes pros sign up and get 40% off - AMAZING!).

I had even been to Shoppers Drug Mart several times and played around w/ the products and even figured out what my colours were and yet I still for some reason hadn't ordered.   Anyway, maybe it was the fact that I was tipsy + the fact that I was running VERY LOW on my Yaby concealer and powder foundation + my skin was(is) a mess that I decided hey enough is enough I want to look decent and pretend I have good skin right now so let's give this stuff a try!  

So I ordered and waited patiently for a few days for the order to arrive (they were shipping from Canada so I expected it to be quick).  I'm not going to lie - I'm not sure if it's always the case but their shipping was EXTREMELY slow...it may have just been a one off but if their products weren't so FUCKING AMAZING I'd probably not order again...man you're lucky your products are GOOD Cover FX!  If you're just a reg. person w/out a discount just go to Shoppers or where ever and get the products...Pros I hope your shipping experience is better than mine that's all I can say (to get the discount you have to order online).  

Once my products FINALLY arrived I was SO EXCITED to finally try them and can I just say I was NOT disappointed!  I really do LOVE them!  I got a shit load of stuff: Camouflage Concealer (Light), Natural FX (Water Based Liquid Foundation) E20, Cover FX (Total Coverage Cream Foundation SPF 30) E20, Powder FX (Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 10) E20, Primers - SkinPrep FX & ClearPrep FX, Setting FX Translucent Powder and 3 Brushes - #160, #170 & #190.  The SkinPrep FX, Translucent Powder, Cream Foundation & Brush #160 came in the Maximum Coverage Kit which was already a discounted kit + I could use my 40% discount on it so it was an even BETTER deal!

I know a lot of ppl in the past have complained about the products being too heavy or cakey but I have to be honest I just don't think they are using them properly.  It really is about TECHNIQUE here...LESS is MORE w/ this stuff TRUST ME.  It is SUPER pigmented and FULL COVERAGE so A LITTLE  really does go A LONG WAY!  Even I was a bit worried which is probably why I had waited so long to try them out.  I mean I had seen different sales associates at Shoppers raving about the products only for me to look at them and think 1. You are wearing the wrong shade of foundation 2. You are wearing WAY too much of the wrong shade of foundation lol.  

Okay so back to me and my experience.  I'm going to do something VERY scary in this blog post just to illustrate how GREAT I think these products are.  I'm going to show you pictures of me w/ LITERALLY NO MAKEUP on - NONE.  Like I literally stepped out of the shower - you'll notice the wet hair - no moisturizer, no primer, no wrinkle creams - NOTHING!  I'm doing this to show you what a difference they can make...this is VERY scary for me b/c I'm not going to lie - I look like SHIT in these Before Pictures but I'm just doing it to illustrate an important point.  Right now my skin has been going through a bit of a prob phase for the past couple of mths.  I've mentioned before I have/had some skin issues and well it's not good right now...it was worse and has improved a lot in the past mth but I'm just getting over some side effects from a medication I was on and I guess it really messed up my hormones or whatever but anyway my skin has not been pretty lol...I'm talking lots of rock hard cystic pimples on my jaw, neck and chin area - really attractive...plus all the usual skin issues lol!

Okay here are a couple of BEFORE shots - notice the uneven blotchy skin, zits, freckles (I actually like the freckles), under eye circles...all of that!  In truth my skin was A LOT worse a couple of wks ago so I guess I should be happy lol! FYI if you didn't know this before you'll know now...I have really jacked up eyebrows from over waxing and tweezing in my teenage years.  Lesson to the girls out there DON'T OVER TWEEZE!  I use to have a unibrow - I would die to have a unibrow to tweeze again lol!

Okay to start w/ I put on all my daily eye creams, serums, moisturizers and primers (btw I LOVE E.L.F's Mineral Face Primer from their studio line...CHEAP but SO GOOD!).  Speaking of Primers I've tried the Cover FX CleanPrep FX which is a Primer for Acne skin and I gotta say so far it's the only thing I'm NOT a fan of.  Maybe I need to give it another try or use less I don't know but I had a prob w/ it rolling on my skin once I put the concealer or foundation over it...not good! After I applied all my usual skin prep stuff I started w/ the Cover FX Camouflage Concealer in Light.  I bought a full size version of this stuff and they also sent me a small little sample of it.  I've been using the sample EVERY day for like 3 wks and I'm still NOT out of it.  That's how little you need and how pigmented it is!  I find it similar to Keromask Concealer which is another Full Coverage Concealer and I find both run dark.  They do have an X-Light below the Light.  I'm definitely a Light and I imagine a Medium would actually be pretty dark but I guess this is good b/c that means  the X-Deep would probably cover even the darkest skin tone which is great for all those dark skin beauties out there that have trouble finding concealers and foundations for themselves.  

Here's me after JUST the Camouflage Concealer.  See what a huge difference just the concealer made!

 That's the sample I've been using for 3 wks!  Imagine how long the actual tube will last - no the stuff isn't cheap but it will last FOREVER!

As you may notice I really wanted to focus in on concealing around the chin/around the mouth area b/c that's where a lot of my probs right now are.  I would also like to point out that I left my freckles across my nose and on the top of my cheeks still visible.  I like them b/c I think they are fresh and cute therefore I don't think there is any need to cover them up w/ too much concealer.  I also mentioned that I bought some brushes and I have to say I have a new FAVOURITE brush now.  For years I've LOVED the MAC skunk brush for buffing liquid foundation and cream blushes into the skin and I still love it but you know what there is a new brush in town that I love for my liquid products - Brush #160 - it's a cream foundation brush and I really think it has made all the difference in my application of the product and helped it from looking cakey or heavy.  I use the brush to buff the product into my skin and in areas where I need more coverage like right on a zit I use it to sort of tap the product on to the problem spot and not just spread it around.  I LOVE this brush.  I also love my #170 Pointed Foundation Brush which is great for around the nose and under the eyes!  

After the concealer I used the Natural FX Liquid Foundation in E20...if my skin was better I might just use this as it does give very good coverage as well.  Also I have skipped the concealer and just used the Cover FX Cream Foundation which is also very good and has a very good coverage...works very well w/ brush #160.

After Natural FX E20

I finished it all off w/ the Powder FX in E20...my only complaint w/ this is unlike the concealer which I think runs dark I think this runs a bit light.  It goes from E20 to E40 and I really kind of wish they had an E30...esp. w/ Summer coming up.  I have to be careful not to over apply this and I don't think I could use it alone b/c it would be too light for me but I do think it helps brighten up my under eye area!

Okay so now I've laid all the foundation work down and it's on to the stuff that actually brings out my features.  I think my skin looks really fresh and even but after you take away all the imperfections things can look a bit flat so it's important to bring them back w/ your other makeup.

The following pics and also the first pic I posted at the top of the blog are after I completed my clean, basic makeup look for the day (as you can see my hair is still wet lol).  Btw if I wasn't taking pics in between all these steps this all literally takes me 10 mins (at most).  Also it should be noted that many ppl have already mentioned to me that the "After" pics look really fresh like I just stepped out of the shower and have NO makeup on lol!  It's like on TV or the movies when a girl steps out of the shower or pool and still looks fresh and beautiful lol!  Which is great but I can tell you and I'm going to steal and slightly modify Calvin Klein's famous quote - The best thing is to look Natural, but tt takes A LOT of FUCKING makeup to look Natural lol!

Just for reference in these After Pics besides the moisturizer, primer, concealer, foundation & powder I'm also wearing: Contour, Highlight, Bronzer, Blush, Lipstick, Lip Gloss, Eyebrow Pencil, Mascara & Translucent Powder...Very Natural lol!  Isn't amazing what a little mascara, eyebrow filler and lip gloss can do!

Okay so after all this I went out for coffee w/ a couple of friends and I was gone a couple of hours and it was pretty hot out yesterday.  This is me after coming back from coffee - no touch ups!  I still think it looks good!

Couple of more hours later meeting a friend for drinks.  Curled my hair, added a little eye shadow, touched up the bronzer and blush but not really the foundation or anything - might have touched up the powder foundation just a touch to control the shine!

Sorry this blog post is SO LONG and detailed but I hope it was at least informative!  And I think we ALL learned there really is no such things as Natural Beauty just Manufactured Natural Beauty (at least for me) lol!

Also Cover FX if you're reading this and you want to send me some free stuff to try b/c of the GLOWING review I wrote I'm totally open to it ;)

M2 Product Review - I LOVE These Products!

Last wk I told you about Apothica and what a great company they are...well now I have more to tell you
about their sister company - Skin Care Rx (mostly deals w/ skin care products duh).  Now that I'm being sponsored I got to choose $75 worth of products from either site to try out and review.

Well, I've mentioned it before I'm getting older but I still do struggle a bit w/ acne so I'm kind of obsessed w/ finding a good skin care system that I really like so I thought the Skin Care Rx website would be PERFECT for this!  They have millions of products...brands I've NEVER even heard of and tons of reviews!

So after much reviewing and contemplating (hey I'm a Libra - hard to make decisions lol) I decided to go w/ two M2 skincare products - M2 Skin Refinish 20% and M2 Exfoliating Cleanser.  The line deals head on w/ the skin issues that plauge me the most - ACNE (& acne scarring) & Fine Lines/Wrinkles (sometimes hard to find skin care systems that deal w/ both issues not just one or the other) plus overall the reviews were plentiful and really promising so I thought they were great choices. 

Okay I just have to say I LOVE THESE PRODUCTS!  Like seriously I WILL be buying these again!  I have noticed an improvement in the overall tone of my skin, my pores seem smaller and my acne has DEFINITELY lessened!

Okay first I'll talk about the M2 Skin Refinish 20%. 

I'm going to preface this and say it is quite a potent product and can cause irritation.  In fact it is common to feel a slight tingling and burning upon first applying it to your skin so don't freak out.  I only use it every other night b/c it is so strong.  They do have a M2 Skin Refinish 12% for those w/ more sensitive skin...plus maybe after using that for awhile you could work yourself up to the 20%.  Also it's a night lotion...it leaves the skin a bit sticky till it dries I'm not going to lie so if that's something that might bug you I wouldn't suggest it.  Also don't sleep on your nice pillow cases if they are coloured b/c it may discolour them or bleach them in spots...I've learned this the hard way (not w/ this product but other acne products).  Some of the reviewers really seem to be stuck on wanting the Original Mama Lotion (product's old name)...I can't compare it to the old product so I really can't say if it was better but I can say I'm happy w/ this product...although I'm curious what the fuss is over the old product.

It's a decent size bottle and you don't need a lot of product at all.  The pump that the product comes out of is a little weird but nothing that really would detour me from buying it (although I'm a little curious when the product is getting low how it might effect me getting all of the product out).  I have been using it now for over 2 mths and I think there is still quite a bit of product left which to me is pretty good even though the product is a little steep at $48.50...but hey it covers so many bases - acne, hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, wrinkles and fine lines. 

Okay so now that we've cleared that up I'll tell you all the good stuff about the product...to save time and so I don't miss or mess up any info I'm just taking the info straight from website.

About The Product



Eliminate all your skin care woes with one easy-to-use serum. This multi-purpose facial treatment uses a high-potency combination of Mandelic and Malic Acids to rapidly even skin tone, reduce breakouts, and soften wrinkles. (Previously known as MaMa Lotion)

1.7 fl. oz.

Who It's For

Ideal for all skin types, especially hyperpigmented, mature, and acne-prone, who want a smooth, even complexion. Recommended for all skin tones, including dark skin. Click here to read why M2 HP Skin Refinish works well on dark skin. Safe for use while pregnant or nursing.

Key Ingredients

Mandelic Acid is naturally antibacterial. Malic Acid protects skin from damaging free radicals. Algae Extract moisturizes skin.

How To Use It

In the evening, apply to clean, dry skin. Wait 10-15 minutes before applying moisturizer. Use only every other night for the first two months. If irritation or excess flaking occurs, decrease frequency of application or discontinue use. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 is required for best results.

Full Ingredients

DI Water, Mandelic Acid, Malic Acid,Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Acrylate/ Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Dimethylacrylamide Crosspolymer, Isohexadecane,Polysorbate 60, PEG-8/SMDI Copolymer, Algae Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract, Butylene Glycol, Squalane, Hyaluronic Acid, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Coenzyme Q10, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Tetrasodium EDTA

So basically I alternate at night - I night M2 Skin Refinish and then the next night I use my traditional acne cream. 

Okay onto the M2 Exfoliating Cleanser

I'm not going to lie, in the past I have been sometimes a bit cheap w/ my skin cleansers.  I know, I know I spend tons of money on other makeup products, wrinkle creams, diet products...but for some reason hated spending more than $12-15 on a skin cleanser.  Well I think I've changed my mind now!  Not that the M2 Exfoliating Cleanser is THAT expensive...in fact it's under $25 USD.  Again it's a good size bottle but I think what makes it so worth the money (other than the fact that it's a great cleanser) is that all you need is one pump of the product which has a somewhat thick liquid gel consistency to wash your entire face.  Again I have been using this product for over 2 mths twice a day and literally onlly about 1/3 of the bottle is gone...so it that case it's ACTUALLY CHEAPER than other skin cleansers I have used in the past!

Okay here again is what the company says about the product.

About The Product

Instantly refine your skin every time you wash. This gel cleanser combines Mandelic and Malic Acids to gently exfoliate and remove impurities from the skin. Natural antibacterial and humectant properties restore balance, clarity, and tone. Soap-free and SLS-free.

6.76 fl. oz.

Who It's For

Ideal for those with dry, mature, or sensitive skin who want a clean, fresh, and refined complexion.

Key Ingredients

Mandelic Acid gently resurfaces the skin and is antibacterial. Malic Acid moisturizes and brightens. CoEnzyme Q10 neutralizes free radicals.

How To Use It

Apply a dime-size amount into the hands and run together to create a mild lather. Gently massage into dampened skin on face and neck. Let sit on skin for 30 seconds, then rinse. Use morning and evening or as directed by your skin care professional.

Full Ingredients

Water, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Laurylamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Mandelic Acid, Malic Acid NF, Sodium Hydroxide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Algae Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Coenzyme Q10, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Glycereth-26, PEG-150 Distearate, Hydroxypropyl Bis-Hydroxyethyldimonium Chloride, Tetrasodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol

I also should add that Skin Care Rx offers free shipping in the US on ANY M2 product purchases or ANY orders over $49...sorry Canadians we don't get the shipping deals :(

BUT I am passing on a code for ALL MY READERS!  If you want to SAVE 20% on ANY order w/ Skin Care Rx - follow this link! (takes a second for the coupon to pop up)  Told you they were an awesome company!

Btw how much do I LOVE this site...well I just bought some more products from them TODAY and I CAN'T WAIT to try them!  Yes...I used my own money lol...not just free stuff!  What did I buy you ask?

Well I'm a HUGE sucker for a GREAT sampler pack so I bought

The Beauty Cache - which is ALWAYS a HUGE BESTSELLER and sells out really quick so get one now!  It includes 4 full size products to try as well as a TON of sample products to try out (don't we all LOVE samples).  Plus I believe it also includes a $20 gift card (can be used on orders of $75 or more) so basically w/ that the Cache almost pays for it's self being that it costs under $30!  The reviews are amazing and EVERYONE seems to be a fan of this product so I'm VERY EXCITED to get mine!  A different one comes out every season and I tried to get one when I ordered my M2 products before but it was sold out so act fast!

Glycolix Skin Pads - I really LOVE the Avon Anew Pads so I'll be curious to compare these...again great reviews and a reasonable price so why not...since I ran out of my Avon Pads. 

MyChelle Dermaceuticals - Mostly just got this one b/c like I said I'm a sucker for a sampler pack and it was cheap w/ a lot of really fun products to try out!