Product Review: Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or

Claims
95% of the ingredients of this dry oil are of natural origin, and it does not contain any preservatives. Six plant oils (Borage, St. John's Wort, Sweet Almond, Camellia, Hazelnut and Macadamia) and vitamin E moisturise your face, body and hair which are left feeling soft and silky. Using this oil on your legs will create a "silk stocking" effect. Also, the product will blur any blemishes thanks to the golden particles. You can also mix this oil with your moisturiser or foundation to brighten your complexion and create an iridescent finish. Alternatively, you can also add a hint of the oil on your cheekbones. Suitable for all skin and hair types.

My experience
In my opinion, this dry oil is absolutely amazing. It keeps all its promises and leaves a subtle golden shimmer wherever you apply it, and your skin/hair feels soft and silky thanks to the precious oils. I have fond memories using this during the summer. The good thing is that you can also use this during the winter. On top of this, its scent is fabulous. It smells sexy and feminine, and above all, natural. I highly recommend this product to anyone who is not too impatient with skin care (even if it is a dry oil, you do need to wait a bit till it absorbs). The only downside is its price, which is very expensive. There are two formats, 50ml which cost £21, and 100ml which cost £34.

Product Review: Nuxe Crème Fraîche de Beauté Light Combination Sensitive Skins

Claims
This face cream should be a light textured, 24-hour moisturiser especially designed for combination skin. Your skin is supposed to feel fresh, soft and matt throughout the day.

My opinion
I was not impressed at all with this face cream. Firstly, I think it is overpriced (£25 for 50ml). Secondly, it feels uncomfortable and sticky on my skin. Thirdly, I did not like the scent which I thought was very artificial. The only advantage would be that it moisturises your skin. All in all, I do not recommend this product.

Product Review: Boots Essential Hairspray Maximum Hold Unperfumed vs. L'Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray

My opinion
The winning product of this test has been the L'Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray. The Boots hairspray has not been satisfactory as it did not hold my hair in place. Furthermore, although it says "unperfumed", I still thought there was a strong smell to it, and not a pleasant one. The L'Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray I chose is supposed to be adapted to the needs of coloured hair. I am not sure how this works but in any case, it did the job and held my hair in place throughout the evening. Furthermore, it protects your hair from humidity. All in all, the L'Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray is definitely worth the extra money you pay.

Product Review: Dermatological E45 Moisturising Lotion

Advantages

This product is perfume-free, hypoallergenic, dermatologically tested, allergy screened and especially suitable for dry and sensitive skin. You can use it to moisturise your body, face and hands, and it is suitable for the whole family including babies. I like skincare products which are straightforward. Especially when travelling, I think it's great to be able to bring one product and you're sorted. Furthermore, the formula is non greasy and easily absorbed for a light feel on your skin. It is also good value for money.

Disadvantages

The only thing I can mention is that it contains petrolatum and parabens, which I'm not a big fan of.

Conclusion

In spite of the disadvantages, I would recommend this product to anyone who has sensitive skin given the many advantages.

Product Review: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser (for all skin types)

Advantages

This product does exactly what it claims: it cleanses gently without over-drying or stripping skin of its natural oils. The formula itself already feels gentle and very smooth, and I sincerely believe it is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin. The product is ph-balanced and was tested for safety and gentleness.

Disadvantages

The scent is a bit "clinical" if you see what I mean, but this is often the case with ph-balanced products and doesn't really bother me personally. However, the price may be more of an issue. At $10 for 75ml, the cleanser is not exactly cheap. However, especially if you have sensitive skin and are looking for a gentle cleanser, this may be your product in spite of the price.

BEST Non-Oily/Comedogenic Sunscreens: 3 Products Compared

There are not many non-greasy sunscreens on the market, which is why I have been looking for the perfect product for quite a while. I have oily/combination skin so I'm always searching for non-oily and non-comedogenic products for my face. This is a review on 3 such products.

1) Solait SPF 50 Mattifying Face Sun Fluid, Superdrug

Advantages

This product has a high SPF which is great. Also, it is small (50 ml) so you can easily bring it with you when travelling. In addition, it does not dry out my skin. Plus, it has not been tested on animals. Finally, the price is good (around £3).

Disadvantages

This product does not feel as light as it claims. In fact, the texture of the cream is quite heavy. Also, I did not think it was particularly mattifying.

2) La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Extreme Face Fluid SPF 50

Advantages

This product is perfume- and paraben-free, water resistant and non-comedogenic. In addition, it offers a high SPF protection. Finally, it is even suitable for the most sensitive skin.

Disadvantages

The disadvantage is that this product feels a bit too heavy on my skin. Also, the price is too high for what you get (£16.50 for only 50 ml).

3) Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunscreen SPF 70

Advantages

This product is amazing - I have finally found THE product for my skin. You barely feel you have cream on your face, this lightweight formula was exactly what I was looking for. It absorbs instantly and provides a non-shiny finish. Also, it offers high SPF protection. Finally, it is waterproof, sweatproof, non-comedogenic, oil-free and PABA free.

Disadvantages

The only downside is the price: $12.49 for 40ml is more on the expensive side, however I believe that this quality product is worth the price.

Product Review: Onsen Pure A- Peel Skin Renewal Facial Peel

Advantages
The packaging of this product is very attractive. You have to twist the top part to be able to use it. Using it once per week, it is supposed to last for 2 years. I cannot guarantee this because I have not used it for such a long time yet.

Disadvantages
This product is totally overpriced ($129.95) for the results. Thank God I did not spend that sort of money on it. My friend and I were virtually ambushed by a salesperson in a big UK shopping centre. I really despise these selling techniques, making pedestrians feel obliged to buy something. The salesperson gave us a paper and we "won" a free treatment. The salesperson showed us how the product works on the back of my hand. She was trying to manipulate me into buying the product. I could have walked away, but my friend was quite impressed by the result and wanted to buy it so we bought two for £30, a "special offer just for us because she liked us". Even at £15 each, this product is far too expensive. Firstly, I think it works better on the back of my hand as on my face. Maybe this is because the directions on the product do not seem to be correct, but even when I tried it like the salesperson did, it did not work that well. Secondly, the cheapest scrub you can find would give the same results, and is definitely easier to use. There is nothing special about this product and I do not recommend it.

Product Review: Pure Active Charcoal Scrub by Garnier

My experience with this product

As this product contains both salicylic acid and charcoal, two ingredients I highly appreciate in my face care products thanks to the good experience I've made, I had high expectations of it. However, I got disappointed in the same way as I did using the Pure System "Daily Exfoliating Cleanser" by Yves Rocher (see last post). The problem is that it really is a coarse scrub. Since the product is supposed to be for daily use, when buying it I expected the scrub to be so fine you wouldn't notice it is one. I presume it is as powerful and effective as the "Daily Exfoliating Cleanser" by Yves Rocher, but I am not sure as I had to discontinue use of it as I really did not like the coarse texture of the product and because it dried out my skin. I sincerely cannot understand how someone could use this every day. In my opinion, this scrub can only be used maximum once per week.

Product Reviews: Pure System by Yves Rocher vs. Pure Active by Garnier

1) Pure System by Yves Rocher daily face care

- Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

- Stop Blemish Lotion

2) Pure Active by Garnier daily face care

- Deep Pore Unclogging Gel Wash

- 24h Moisturiser

All in all, both product ranges worked really well, the effective ingredient being salicylic acid. I would recommend them to anyone having oily/combination skin. The only reason why I prefer the Garnier products is because after using the Yves Rocher ones for a couple of days, I noticed that my skin became very dry. I am sure that the reason for this is that you cannot use the "Daily Exfoliating Cleanser" every day without drying out your skin as it is as exfoliating as a scrub. It is quite surprising that Yves Rocher has not launched a cleaning gel yet to complete its Pure System product range. In my opinion, the "Daily Exfoliating Cleanser" can only be used once per week.

Product Review: L'Oréal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Magnetic Charcoal Cleanser

This may seem strange as I am a woman writing a review on a product for men. However, a male friend of mine was so amazed at the product that he insisted on me to try it, and I was totally amazed with the result. That is why I am only going to describe the advantages to this product - as there are no disadvantages! If L'Oréal could launch the same product for women... I would be its first customer! The only reason why I don't purchase it is that it would feel weird to use a cleanser every day which obviously has a male scent to it.

Advantages
This cleanser was specifically created for people who lead a city life and who are therefore particularly exposed to daily pollution. It really keeps its promise and convinced me of the power of the purifying agent charcoal. The formula acts as a magnet to capture dirt, sweat and impurities. Your skin looks so much clearer after using this cleanser. No shine, no dullness, and the appearance of pores is minimised. And the best part of it: it does not dry out your skin. I am amazed and would recommend this product to all men living in urban areas. Finally, at around £4, it is well worth the money.

BEST aluminium-free deodorants on the market => 7 Deodorant Reviews

I would like to share my experience with different (supposedly) aluminium-free deodorants. Aluminium is a harmful substance which apparently can even cause breast cancer. Evidently, it always depends on how much you are exposed to it. However, it is best to avoid it when you can. As to these reviews, please bear in mind that we all have different skin types and perspiration levels. This post offers you a subjective assessment on so-called aluminium-free deodorants, knowing that I tend to sweat quite easily.

1. Balea Med pH-Hautneutral Deo Roll-on Balsam (bought in Germany)

Advantages

This deodorant is pH neutral which is very good as you should try and protect your armpits as much as possible given that it is often an area which is shaved a lot. Plus, it is clinically and dermatologically tested. In addition, it does not contain any aluminium. Finally, the price is very good and the deodorant is vegan.

Disadvantages

This product did not do the job for me.

2. Ushuaia Deodorant Vanille Bio de Madagascar (bought in France)

Advantages

Ushuaia has always appealed to me as a brand as it gives me this summer feel, not only through the nicely shaped and colourfully designed packaging of its products, but also through the exotic flavours it offers. For instance, I went for this deodorant partly because of its cute shape and because I like the smell of vanilla. Furthermore, the deodorant bears an Ecocert and Cosmebio qualified label: 100% of the ingredients are from natural origin, and the vanilla/aloe vera extracts are organic. Hence it does not contain any aluminium nor parabens.

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, this roll-on deodorant did not live up to my expectations neither. Also, the deodorant has a strong smell of alcohol and I found that it prickled on my skin when applying it after shaving. I found the vanilla scent too artificial, although it is an organic product. However, I have seen that it also exists in different flavours, including Green Tea, Hibiscus, Everlasting Flower, Shea, and Argan Oil. Nevertheless, at around 5€, I expect more from a deodorant.

3. Bionsen Japanese Spa Minerals Deodorant Stick

Advantages

This deodorant contains no aluminium/parabens, it is hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested (in collaboration with the Clinic of Dermatology at Siena University). Hence it is suitable for even the most sensitive skin. Finally, this is the best deodorant I have ever tried in terms of scent, it smells absolutely refreshing and you really feel like in a Japanese spa. At around £3, I guess the price is OK.

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, this deodorant did not work as well as I expected.

4. Jason Calming Lavender Deodorant Stick

Advantages

This deodorant is clinically tested, and does not contain any aluminium, petrolatum, sodium lauryl, laureth sulfates, parabens, phthalates or propylene glycol. It smells very natural and I suppose this is partly due to the lavender oil which is used as an ingredient. Furthermore, the brand promises that its formulas are never tested on animals.

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, this deodorant did not work for me.

5. Infasil Neutro Extra Delicato Deodorante (bought in Italy)

Advantages

This deodorant stick is approved by the Italian Association of Dermatology and Cosmetology (AIDECO). It is aluminium-free and clinically tested on efficiency and protection, and even worked for me. Also, at around 3€ it is excellent value for money. Finally, its smell is deliciously refreshing.

Disadvantages

There are absolutely no disadvantages to this product, which is why it is the winning deodorant.

6. Jovan White Musk Perfumed Deodorant Spray For Women

Advantages

This deodorant spray does not contain any aluminium. Also, it smells heavenly: white musk is a very feminine scent. Finally, it worked well for me.

Disadvantages

The packaging is made out of aluminium, which is a disadvantage in my eyes as I am trying to avoid this substance as much as I can. Also, the word "perfumed" may frighten consumers which have sensitive skin. However, I think that fragrance is almost unavoidable and is contained in every deodorant I have ever had, unless it specifically said "perfume-free" on the packaging.

7. Bourjois Paris Deodorant Net & Frais Extrait d'Agrume

Advantages

This deodorant is paraben- and aluminium-free, and it is dermatologically tested. Moreover, the packaging is very appealing to me thanks to its bright green colour and the small, gold-coloured ball on the cap. Finally, at, 3,45€ the deodorant is good value for money because it is a big spray (200 ml) and it works very well.

Disadvantages

There are no disadvantages to this product. Nevertheless, again I would like to point out the fact that its packaging is made of aluminium, which is a shame.

Conclusion

The winning deodorant is the Infasil stick. The deodorant sprays also worked well, however, they come second in the ranking because of their packaging made of aluminium. I have not found an effective aluminium-free deodorant yet that comes in a packaging made of glass, which would be the best material as it is not toxic. Also beware of the fact that crystal deodorant brands often claim that their products are aluminium-free which is not true. Check the ingredients and as soon as you see the word "alum", you should know the deodorant contains aluminium.

Product Review: Topshop Lipstick, Ohh La La Coral Blush

This lipstick from Topshop comes in 4 different shades, the one I chose is Coral Blush.

Advantages

I love the packaging of this lipstick - it must be some kind of metallic material as it is quite "cold", a real change from plastic for once. The colour is quite charming, it is coral and has a slight neon tinge for a vintage effect. Because of the fact that the colour is not overwhelming, you can wear it very well during the day (as well as during the evening). It does not dry out your lips thanks to its silky formula while at the same time giving a fairly matte finish, as promised by the brand.

Disadvantages

The durability is not the best. It is too much of a moisturiser which explains why the colour quickly fades away.

Product Review: Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils Shocking, 04 Sea Black

This YSL mascara currently comes in 7 different shades, I have 04 (Sea Black)

Advantages
The great advantage of this mascara is that really adds volume to your eye lashes, and I do like the subtle blue shade I chose. Also, you really feel like you are using a very special product thanks to the glorious gold packaging.

Disadvantages
The main disadvantage is that the mascara does not really lengthen my lashes, which is why I prefer using it in combination with another mascara. In addition, the smell is a bit too artificial for my taste. At $30, I would expect a mascara to impress me a little more.

Product Review: L'Oréal Double Extend Beauty Tubes, Blackest Black

This two-in-one mascara combines a fortifying base coat with a colour top coat.

Advantages
This mascara adds volume, it lengthens and fortifies your lashes and doesn't smudge. Its durability is excellent. L'Oréal is a quality brand and I think it is trustworthy. Finally, the black colour pigment is amazing.

Disadvantages
The only disadvantage I can think of is that the primer dries quickly - if you want to take time, prefer working on each eye separately.

Product Review: Rimmel Apocalips Lip Lacquer, 303 Apocaliptic

This lipstick/gloss comes in 13 different shades, including a bright pink 303, which is the one I have.

Advantages

The catch phrase "it's neither a lipstick nor a gloss... It's BIGGER than both!" really applies to this product. I have never come across a more colourful and glossy lipstick, and on top of this the staying power is amazing. Additionally, it does not feel sticky at all but really nice on my lips. I really recommend this product if you like very colourful, shiny lips. Also, the price at around £ 5 is OK I suppose. Finally, there is a good colour range available for this lipstick.

Disadvantages

The first disadvantage would be the applicator. You do need to develop an application technique in order to apply it correctly. The main problem is that too much of the product comes off, and because the colour is so vivid (at least the one I have), you need a steady hand as any slip will make your lips look terribly uneven. However, what I do is I put on a few tiny dabs and then a regular gloss, evening the colour out. This will prevent your lipstick from feeling heavy and smudging too much, especially when you are on a dinner out. In addition, I know that some people have a problem with the smell of this lipstick. Admittedly, it does have an artificial smell. However, it does not bother me too much.

UNE Skin-Echo Concealer, E07

This concealer comes in different colour shades: 01, 02 and 07, which is the one I have.

Advantages

UNE is a very good brand as 99,2% of the total ingredients of its products are from natural origin and organic farming, which is certified by Ecocert. Also, I really like the scent of this concealer - apparently it's 100% natural lotus flower fragrance, I thought it smelled like vanilla. Finally, it is 100% dermatologically tested, making it a suitable concealer for sensitive skin.

Disadvantages

This product did not live up to my expectations. In fact, the concealer is too oily and does not cover dark circles. However, if you are looking for a light concealer, this could be your product.

Product Review: Lily Lolo Mineral Cover Up Powder, Blush Away

This powder comes in two shades, PeepO and Blush Away, which is the one I have. It is supposed to conceal blemishes and redness through the coloured pigment of the powder. 

Advantages

This product offers good coverage. Also, the staying power is very good. In addition, apparently the powder also contains natural broad-spectrum sun protection. Finally, it is made from pure crushed minerals and contains no harsh chemicals or dyes, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin.

Disadvantages

At £ 7.99, the product is a bit too expensive for the results, at least in my case. My skin looks a bit green and pale after applying the powder. However, it may be that the other shade works better on my skin. In any case, the texture did not convince me - after trying loose powder I just prefer it as it feels more weightless on my skin and looks more natural.

Product Review: Physicians Formula Talc-Free Mineral Wear Illuminating Weil, Bronze Glow

This product is a loose powder and it is the best bronzer I have ever had, and I have tried many products. It comes in different shades, the one I have is Bronze Glow.

Advantages
The texture of this powder feels amazing, it is ultra-light and has a smooth, slippery feel in spite of the fact that it is talc-free. Your skin looks lustrous, I highly recommend this product for a luminous finish and translucent glow without having to worry about talc. Also, a brush and a mirror are included (there is a small oval mirror on the cap for touch-ups on the go). In addition, at $12.95 the price is good value for money and I hope they won't increase it. Finally, the powder is hypoallergenic, dermatologist approved, non-comedogenic and fragrance & oil free. This makes it an ideal product for combination and oily skin.

Disadvantages
I only have to mention two minor things: the packaging and the brush. Personally, I unscrew the product in order to get easier access to the powder as I think almost nothing comes out of the container otherwise. The powder is supposed to come through the brush after removing the inner sifter label. Also, the brush is not the best I think as it feels a bit rough on my skin, but maybe I am too spoiled with the usual brush I use for all my makeup. Finally, I was disappointed to see that apparently only two shades are available to buy online from the official website (Peachy Glow and Nude Glow), but maybe this is going to change soon.

Product Review: La Roche-Posay Blusher, Bronze 04

The La Roche-Posay blusher has been created for specifically sensitive and intolerant skin. It comes in three different shades: Pink 02, Caramel 03, and Bronze 04, which is the one I have.

Advantages
The main advantage of this blusher is that it is a high tolerance product. Not many blushers currently exist on the market for sensitive skin. It is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and free from fragrance & preservatives. Also, it is quite difficult to find this kind of bronze shade on the market. Applying the blusher gives your look an instant lift and illuminates your skin tone. However, I would only apply a tiny bit of it, depending on your natural skin tone, to avoid an artificial effect. Alternatively, if you have a lighter skin tone, you can opt for one of the other shades. Finally, the box is cute and handy as you can easily slip it into a small handbag when you go out. Plus, it contains a mirror and an applicator pad.

Disadvantages
There are not many disadvantages to this product, except for its price. At around 20 Euros for so little product (5 grams), it is not exactly good value. However, like I said, you do not need to use so much of it in order to achieve the desired effect so it does last a long time.