Review - Malin + Goetz Detox Mask

Despite the fact that the Malin+Goetz brand was launched in 2004 their products as well as their stores have a very old-fashioned, old-worldly apothecary look, drawing in customers with innovative skincare formulas and ideas that subsequently have us coming back for more. Their main concern and direction deals with taking care of sensitive skin types but also with creating formulas that protect all of their customer skins from the harsh environmental and pollution factors in New York City and beyond.
The old-fashioned product approach is complimented with today's busy lifestyles so their formulations are usually multi-tasking, quick and effective in order to satisfy their customer needs.

Malin+Goetz is a relatively new brand for me but their detox mask has got to be one of the most unique and interesting products I've ever had the pleasure to work with. It doesn't matter how many times I use it, its performance is always fascinating to me and I get almost giddy as I watch it do its thing in the mirror. If you ever used it then you must know exactly what I mean! Its very easy to see why this is a repeat winner of the Allure Beauty Awards in the Deep Cleansing Mask category.

If you've read my blog posts before then you know how much I appreciate a multitasking product and the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask is one of the best I have ever come across.
Its recommended for use as a face mask, deep cleanser, hydration treatment and even shaving cream. Prepare to have your mind blown!

Official Description;

An easy 5-minute foaming gel mask: Innovative, oxygenating cleansing agents replace harsh detergents and drying clays to deep-pore-cleanse, lifting dirt, oil and make-up away from the skin without irritation, while creating a physical barrier to seal hydration. Complex amino acids and natural almond extract gently and effectively purify, clarify, balance and soothe. Stable Vitamin C, antioxidants Vitamin E and Soy Protein help firm and address concerns for aging while instantly brightening complexion. Natural fragrance and color. C, antioxidants Vitamin E and Soy Protein help firm and address concerns for aging while instantly brightening complexion. Natural fragrance and color.

Key Ingredients;

Squalene, glycerin, and sodium pca moisturize and hydrate; 

Soy protein and panthenol firm; 

Green tea extract and vitamin e work as antioxidants; vitamin c smoothes lines.

The Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask is a high performance, high quality and highly effective formulation that is just so much fun to use that there are weeks I find myself slathering this on almost every second day. Its a foaming gel-type mask that in matter of minutes transforms into a tingling, delicate bubble veil that fizzes away all the dirt, grime and even makeup from your deepest pores. 

What is unique about this product is its customize-able  nature which allows you to adjust its usage based on your particular skin type. Oily skin can use a thin layer of this mask on a daily basis for deep cleansing and oil control while those "blessed" with dryer skin are recommended to apply a thicker layer to act as a night-time hydrating cleanser. Both skin types, even members of the Sensitive Skin Care Club, can use this a couple of times a week as both a deep cleansing and hydrating mask treatment. 

Once on the skin the gel begins to "fizzle" and "pop" creating this tingling-tickling sensation that remind me of alka-seltzer tablets being dropped into a glass of water. I am a big of fan of this particular phenomenon and no matter how bad my day was this little gem just makes me giggle like a little girl. I have never had a mask make me so happy before so for that reason alone the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask will always be repurchased. 

When the "fizzing" subsides, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes, the foam can be washed or wiped with a warm washcloth, leaving the skin feeling clean, soft, supple and radiant. The results really are instantaneous and I am all about instant gratification so this is a win-win for me.

I have been very impressed with the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask and would recommend it to anyone. If nothing else it will at least put a smile on your face. 

The Detox Face Mask ($40 for 4 oz) and other Malin+Goetz products can be purchased directly from their website. 

I hope this was helpful :-)

Have you tried the Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask? What is your favorite face mask?

XOXO

ANJA

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Review - REN Purity Cleansing Balm

I know my blog is starting to resemble a REN advertising campaign but rest assured I am in no way connected to the company, all my products were purchased independently, I am not getting paid for reviews nor do they know I am doing this. I doubt they even know of my blog existence.

Nevertheless I am a huge REN fan, so much so that if I was allowed only one brand in my skincare routine for the rest of my life I know I would choose REN and be very happy with my decision.
Everything about their clean skincare approach appeals to me and every single product I have tried from their lineup has been a favorite at some point during my beauty journey.
You can't argue with performance gold stars and REN has definitively earn quite a stash of them.

The REN Purity Cleansing Balm was one of the first cleansing balms I tried and subsequently overcame my fears of  "balmy oil" induced breakouts. The rest, as they say, is history!

Description; 

This rose-infused blam sweeps away impurities, including waterproof mascara and the toughest of complexion products. It leaves skin cleansed, purified, calm, and glowing. It also conditions the lashes and brows. 

Ingredients;

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Cetearyl Ethyhexanoate, Glyceryl Cocoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Dibehenate, Tribehenin, Glyceryl Behenate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract, Cymbopogon Martini Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Oil, Viola Odorata Extract, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Oil, Lecithin, Benzyl Alcohol, Oryzanol, Tocopherol, Citronellol, Geraniol, Eugenol, Linalool.

The REN Purity Cleansing Balm was formulated for all skin types and used as a makeup remover or gentle primary cleanser to remove pollution and accumulated dead skin cells. The muslin cloth included is entirely optional as the balm can be used either way but keep in mind that if you use it you are essentially preforming a gentle exfoliation of the skin surface so if you are a member of Sensitive Skin Care Club I would refrain from using other exfoliant solutions on that particular day.

The texture of the Cleansing Balm resembles that of traditional soft shortening but once warmed up in your hands it melts quickly in a silky oil-like solution, which is therefore easily distributed and massaged in to the face. The scent has a strong rose undertone but the fragrance is so balanced,  rejuvenating and luxurious, that it manages to elevate your beauty routine that much more.

The directions indicate to scoop a small amount into the palm of your hand and rub until the balm transforms into a silky oil, which then indicates when to begin the facial massage. I try to do this for at least a few minutes before gradually adding water to the skin surface and thereby emulsifying it into a rich milk tonic that is then either rinsed or polished off with the muslin cloth or a generic warm facecloth. The skin is left soft, smooth, calm, radiant and plumped up right away, with no dryness in sight. Clean and non-stripped of the skins natural oils your complexion responds with a healthy glow and immediate brightening effect. My skin simply feels better after each use and my skincare ritual is definitively enhanced to a bit more of a glamorous level.

Its a little slice of the REN Spa experience and its happening in your very own bathroom.

The REN Purity Cleansing Balm comes in both a traditional tube ($38 for 3.3 fl.oz.) and a tub ($58 for 5.1 fl.oz.) form in case you have a performance. I know a lot of bloggers and other individuals complain and are put-off by jar packaging due to contamination risk which is a legitimate concern but I don't make it an problem since your hands are suppose to be clean when you are about to put something on your face anyways. As an extra precaution I have a tube of hand sanitizer right next to the balm jar so I can use it after the hand wash to lower my contamination chances even more.

The price may seem a little steep for a cleanser however keep in mind that balms last a lot longer than the traditional foaming washes so in the end you break even and get a product that is not only a superstar but its also good for the skin in the long term. REN's Clean Skincare Commitment is something you can always count on and its definitively an incentive for good-for-you skincare splurge.

For more information about the REN Purity Cleansing Balm, their other products and retail information check out their website and as always REN products can be found at our trusty Sephora.


I hope this was helpful!

Have you tried the REN Purity Cleansing Balm? What is your take on cleansing balms - any favorites?

XOXO

ANJA

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Eye Cream Series - La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Eyes

I am back with yet another installment of the Eye Cream Series and this time I want to feature a brand, almost all of us know and love. I discovered it very recently once I overcame my overwhelming confusion when faced with their medical apothecary look and impossible to pronounce product names (at least for me). For years I was intimidated by the daunting task of deciphering their ingredient lists, description code and in some cases even functionality. The bottles and white boxes looked the same to me and I didnt trust the beauty associates and their skincare knowledge at my local Shoppers Drug Mart location, so in turn I literally avoided that section entirely.

Luckily today La Roche Posay and me are great friends and I am yet to come across a product that deserves any negativity or questioning. This skincare brand means business and delivers results without any unnecessary fluff, fancy advertising campaigns or celebrity sponsors for that matter. I love that their focus is firmly centered around performance and product quality instead of hype and brand competition. I really wish I had explored their selection sooner because I am sure their products would have saved me a lot of grief, disappointment and money when it came to taking care of my skin.

The Hydraphase Intense Eyes formula is no exception to their high standards and it really is a high performance eye cream that is more than welcome in my beauty arsenal.

Description;

Tight Cellular Junctions Technology: Hyaluronic Acid Fragments ensure epidermal cohesion to infuse and lock water in for ultra long-lasting hydration. 
Intensive rehydration to smooth eyes dehydrated fine lines.
Decongesting caffeine for anti-puffiness action.

How to use;

1. Apply a small amount of cream with a light, dabbing motion to the eye area. 
2. Gently massage cream into the eye area. Repeat until product is fully absorbed into the skin. 
3. To reduce puffiness, continue to massage the lower eyelid, from the inner to the outer corner. Finish by applying light pressure to your temples to activate lymphatic circulation. 
4. To smooth dehydrated fine lines, perform a series of light tapping motions around the eyes.

Ingredients;

Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Carbomer, Glycinesoja Protein/Soybean Protein, Caffeine, Isohexadecane, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium, Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Polysorbate 80, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.

I expected the texture of the Hydraphase Intense Eyes to be very creamy and heavy because its primary purpose is re-hydration and sealing moisture around the delicate eye area but instead upon opening I was greeted with a slightly blue, translucent gel-like cream that seemed way too light to accomplish what it promised on the packaging. I shouldn't have worried because this eye cream delivers a very powerful hydration kick all by itself and actually cools, soothes and calms the dry skin around my eyes without feeling greasy or heavy at all. Since I am all about instant gratification this feature really appealed to me right away.

The silicone-like feel can be a great primer for your under-eye concealer, especially when you consider the fact that the Hydraphase Intense Eye fills is the hydration ridges and plumps up the skin upon application, which in turn allows your concealer to glide on effortlessly. However if you apply too much of either product flaking may occur so some experimentation is definitively in order before trialing this on a busy morning when you cant afford to make any makeup mistakes.

I think anyone looking for a hydration would really appreciate the Hydraphase line but what makes the Intense Eye stand out is its intensity when dealing with "special circumstance" dryness and irritation. You will appreciate its "powers" at a completely different level if treating severe dryness and actual flaking in the eye area. It solves and soothes the problem in a few days and in the meantime the instant hydration makes the issue a lot more comfortable.

That  is what makes this a treatment eye cream and its the main reason it made its way into the Eye Cream Series. 


For more information about the La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Eye and any of their other product please visit their website and for purchasing visit your local Shoppers Drug Mart location. You can also order La Roche Posay products online at Escentuals.com  here

I hope that was helpful to someone!

Have you tried La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Eye? What is your favorite eye cream?


XOXO

ANJA

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Review - Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner

I love my Biologique Recherche p50 treatment!
It has been a life-changing product for me and I would gladly invest in cases at a time. However with the new European formula change and limited supplies, the original P50 formula is getting harder and harder to find.

I fully appreciate everyone's effort to remove nasty chemicals from beauty products and everything else for that matter but my skin needs a little bit of the "baddies" to be kept in check. I simply haven't been able to find a formulation that works as good as the Biologique Recherche but since I've been conflicted about the whole thing I decided to start pursuing other options in the limited world of exfoliating toners.

As per usual I took Caroline Hiron's (online skincare genius!) advice and invested in one of her other top choices. The Clarins exfoliating toner caught my eye so that was one of my first test products.

I decided on Clarins first because I have always felt that their skincare choices seem to stand out from the rest of the beauty giants (Estée Lauder) in terms of price, functionality and innovation. I had liked some of their skincare products before and I have always felt comfortable browsing their counter choices so it really was an organic first choice. 

Thereby I introduce you to the seriously underrated Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner.

Description;
The Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner is a lotion formulated with fruit acids to sweep away dulling dead skin cells and the day's grime and pollution.
It smooths and softens skin to leave it looking and feeling clean, bright and beautiful.
Apply once or twice a week to a clean face with a cotton pad, avoiding the delicate eye contour. Wait for a minute before continuing your usual skin routine to maximise effectiveness.

This particular exfoliating toner brightens and refines your skin through the means of natural chemical exfoliation; using a combination of tamarind fruit acids and white nettle extract.

The Tamarind fruit acid helps to unclog congested skin, eliminates any settled impurities and dead skin cells and activates natural cell renewal. On the other hand the White nettle extract firms the complexion, tightens your pores and prepares your skin for additional topical treatments.

For those of you concerned with alcohol content I should point out that in this particular formulation, the addition of glycerin counteracts the drying factor successfully so any effects of said alcohol is negligible or even non-existent. 

The concentration of chemical exfoliants in this is a lot lower than that in the P50 or the Pixi Glow Tonic so this is a great choice for Sensitive Skin Club Members and in my experience suitable for daily use. 

However as always I recommend an old- fashion patch test prior to use any products that contain "active" ingredients such as this one.

I have used the Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner ( $34.00) for almost a month at this point and I have to say I am very impressed. The results of course are nowhere near as dramatic as that of the P50 but its serving its exfoliating purpose in the gentlest way possible. 

It leaves my skin smooth, soft, supple and radiant upon each use and while I can't say it will totally replace the Biologique Recherche completely, it's definitively got what it takes for the maintenance phase in between the sad skin days. 

You can purchase and get more info on Clarins skincare directly on their website, Sephora or any designated counters in your area.

Have you tried the Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner? Do you have a favorite toner? 

Thank you for stopping by :-)

XOXO

ANJA

P.S. If you enjoyed this post and want some more Princeza Beauty Musings, please consider following me through GFC, Bloglovin, Pinterest or Twitter! Insert "happy dance" here :-) 

The Eye Cream Series - Clinique Even Better Eyes Treatment

We have all heard the expression - "Eyes are windows of the soul"! 

But what if your eyes perpetually look tired and sleepy? Does that mean people will think your soul is exhausted too? 

Well I am not about to take that chance and with the barrage of eye treatments available these days I am bound to find a suitable weapon sooner or later. 

I couldn't have been more surprised to find the perfect armour at Clinique of all places. 

The dark circles around my eyes can be very prominent due to several factors, one of them being my Mediterranean roots. With that in mind I am deeply aware that the chances of me completely banishing that darkness are slim to none. However I know that new skincare innovations can definitively help minimize things. 

Clinique skincare never really appealed to me and sadly because of that I have overlooked many of their products in all department mediums. With the discovery of the Clinique Even Better Eyes treatment I am hoping to change the neglect to at least an open mind. 

Description;

An oil-free, hydrating cream that visibly lightens dark undereye circles. 

What it Does;
Look more rested with this oil-free cream that works to keep skin nourished while lightening dark undereye circles. The skin-strengthening ingredients make skin less transparent, while the cooling massage tip breaks up puffiness. Sheer optics create an instantly brighter look for all skintones from fair to deep, leaving skin healthy and younger-looking. 

Clinique states that this eye treatment is clinically proven to visibly brighten dark circles by 30 percent over a 12 week period. 

A lot of reviews criticize this proclamation because the 30 percent number seems to be on the low end. Personally I really appreciate Clinique's honesty and release of a specific ratio of improvement. There are so many brands and products out there that make all kinds of extraordinary claims with ambiguous wording and lack of any serious clinical data, in hopes of duping their customers into buying into  their false mantra. At least with Clinique Even Better Eye I know specifically what it is that I am to expect in terms of results. Brand integrity is a huge thing for me and Clinique definitively passes that test. 

If you have been reading my blog then you already know how much I love products with the instant gratification factor whose ingredients also have long term effects. The Even Better Eyes formula fulfills both of those categories and delivers on both as well. The sheer, mica tint diffuses and visibly corrects the darkness right away while the antioxidants, caffeine and mulberry root join forces to brighten the area over time. 

The cool, metal applicator deals with any superficial puffiness around the eye with just a few strokes and the tinted cream acts as a light concealer. Those features make the Clinique Even Better Eye an excellent choice for a daytime eye cream. 

Clinique products are traditionally fragrance-free, dermatologist tested and in the case of the Even Better Eye formulation they added the ophthalmologist approval too. 

My final conclusion is extremely positive and I would recommend this eye treatment to anyone looking for a dark circle remedy. It's an effective formula, its texture feels silky and soothing around the eye and the price is reasonable ($49) and I can't find anything bad to say about it.  Essentially the Even Better Eye treatment made Clinique relevant to me and I will now be popping by their counters again very soon. 

Clinique skincare can be purchased directly from their website, Sephora and the counters at your friendly local department store!

Have you tried a dark circle corrector? 

XOXO

ANJA

P.S. If you enjoyed this post and want some more Princeza Beauty Musings, please consider following me through GFC, Bloglovin, Pinterest or Twitter! Insert "happy dance" here :-) 

Review - Kate Somerville Goat Milk Cream

Kate Somerville skincare was mistakenly labeled by my groggy self as an "infomercial gimmick" brand a while back when I happened to be awake at 4 am, flipping channels and enjoying the dramatic displays various paid programming spots were showing. Somewhere between the incessant Proactiv ads and the Magic Bullet demonstrations, Kate's products got lost in the shuffle and for a long time after I dismissed the constant raves I read online about her celebrity clients.

I guess it takes the right "celebrity" to get my attention and in this case change my very stubborn mind. Caroline Hirons, my unofficial skincare consultant, featured a few Kate Somerville picks in her own skincare routine and specifically mentioned the Goat Cream as a great option for a moisturizer because of its Lactic Acid mild exfoliation properties. She actually classified this as her Absolute Must Have!  Caroline's genius had never let me down before so when i came time to find a new moisturizer Kate Somerville's Goat Cream was my obvious first pick.

Description;
As restorative as it is gentle, Goat Milk Cream moisturizes and soothes dry or damaged skin. Along with natural ingredients—like Aloe, Jojoba, and Avocado—this gentle formula utilizes Lactic Acid to reveal a fresh, renewed complexion.

Ingredients;

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Goat Milk, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Salix Nigra (Willow) bark Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Mannan, Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid.

Key Ingredients;

Jojoba and Avocado for hydration & smoothness
Aloe Vera to calm irritated skin
Grape Seed Extract as natural antioxidant to neutralize free radicals
Lactic Acid (from the milk) to exfoliate and preserve skin's natural pH level

The main feature of the Goat Milk Cream is the clever combination of the mild exfoliant, Lactic Acid, with hydrating agents, Jojoba, Coconut & Avocado. Goat milk is naturally rich in proteins, vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants and lactic acid, making it an ideal ingredient for treating skin that requires hydration and de-clogging properties. 

I really appreciate the unique packaging as well because it cuts down the chances of contamination and the since its not a traditional pump it will not clog like some of its counterparts. 

The level of moisture provided in this cream is definitively suitable for combination-dry or even slightly oily skin types but those with very dry skin will need an additional hydration source, such as a serum. I find that the texture of this cream is deceptive because it seems and feels light but in reality its very concentrated and rich. A small amount is needed to properly moisture and if I use too much my skin stays tacky a little bit longer. With practice I have found that about a half pump is more than enough for the face and neck and if I get it right the cream sinks in quickly, leaving my skin comfortable and silky soft. The smooth factor makes this moisturizer a perfect base for makeup application, so much so that there are times I skip the primer step and apply just foundation over the Goat Cream. 

I have read reviews that mentioned the offensive "milk-like" scent but I have to disagree because my jar barely has any fragrance and it does not emulate milk in any way. If I had to speculate I would say it smells fresh, calming and almost comforting. However fragrance is highly subjective so to you the scent might seem completely different too! The formula does not have any added fragrances, no parabens or silicone's, making it a good choice for my fellow Sensitive Skin Care Club members or anyone else with reactive skin. 

The final conclusion on my part is very positive and I can see this moisturizer staying in my skincare routine for a very long time. Kate Somerville's Goat Cream moisturizes my skin deeply, comforts & calms redness and inflammation and most importantly leaves my complexion looking bright and radiant. I strongly believe that anyone looking for a natural, simple, high quality formula in a moisturizer will love the Goat Cream. 

My apologies to Ms. Somerville for my quick judgement! I think I finally found a worthy infomercial product :-)

Have you tried the Kate Somerville Goat Cream? Whats your favorite infomercial discovery?

XOXO

ANJA

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Review - Dr. Bronners Magic Pure Castile Classic Soap in Almond

It's only been a few years that "green" living and "clean" skincare have gone mainstream. Natural and Organic products have existed for a lot longer of course but they remained under-rated, overlooked, unappreciated and generally considered to be inferior to traditional (chemical) formulas. However in recent times urban consciousness has awakened the natural industry and "green" companies are finally coming out to the forefront. I say it's about time! 

My own desire for cleaner & healthier living has made me a lot more aware and conscious of exactly what I am putting in and on my body. It's a constant journey and since there is so much overwhelming and conflicting information out there, it can be difficult to have enough knowledge to make the best choices. 

In the midst of all that confusion it's nice to have tried and tested brands whose reputation and commitment to clean living surpasses everything else and makes their products (what I like to call) a sure thing. 

Dr. Bronners Magic All-One is one of the pioneers of today's "green" cosmetic industry and its founder Dr. Bronner might be one of the most colorful and unique CEO's you can imagine. The history of him, his family and his soap company is truly a testament of the preserverence and strength of the human spirit. I highly encourage you to read his timelime for a glimpse of what steadfast dedication and commitment can accomplish in the face of so much adversity. Seriously it will amaze you! 

Dr. Bronner's claim to fame comes down to his Magic All-One Pure Castile Liquid Soaps whose formulation precedes all other similarly marketed soaps and blows all of them away. It really isn't even fair to compare them.

Dr. Bronners Magic Pure Castile Soaps are vegetable based, preservative-free, paraben-free and contain absolutely no artificial thickeners. The formula uses only  organic essential oils and makes sure to follow all fair trade requirements.  

On par with their "green" philosophy, the company also minimizes their ecological footprint by making everything 100% biodegradable and using only post-consumer recycled bottles and paper labels. 

How can you not get behind them?

I have been using Dr. Bronners Castile Soaps for years now and a lot of their products are considered to be staples in our household. 

My all time favorite is definitively the Dr. Bronners Magic Pure Castile Soap in Almond. 

Description;

Nothing brings the warmth and coziness of home and hearth into your shower like our heavenly almond scent. All oils and essential oils are certified organic to the National Organic Standards Program. Packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles.

Ingredients;

Water, Saponified Organic Coconut*, Organic Palm* and Organic Olive* Oils (w/Retained Glycerin), Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Essential Oils**, Citric Acid, Vitamin E

Dr.Bronner claims that there are 18 ways the Magic Pure Castile Soap can be used but I am sure the "green" community can come up for a few more. 

Personally I have used the Almond soap as: shampoo, body wash, face wash, hand soap, makeup brush cleanser, bathroom & kitchen cleaner, fruit & veggie wash and even pet shampoo! It works amazingly well and makes me feel good about using it since I know I am not layering chemicals all over the place. 

I love that despite the fact that it does not have synthetic foaming agents it still manages to bubble up beautifully and feels velvety on the skin. The lather is more than generous, cleans my skin perfectly without stripping it, smells distinctly but naturally and rinses away without any residue left over. My skin is very sensitive and can be very reactive when it comes to skincare products but none of the Dr. Bronner products have ever yielded any kind of a negative reaction. In fact, my skin feels a lot better when I use this consistently. The almond scent is beautiful and one of the milder scents used with the magic soaps. To me this smells identical to a comforting almond marzipan cookie and I enjoy using it every day.

The formulation of all Dr. Bronner Castile Soaps is extremely concentrated, which means that you are free to dilute it to suit your own needs but regardless of the ratio you end up choosing, its important to use a little at a time until you are comfortable with its performance. Remember this stuff is potent!

My final verdict is as positive as it gets! I would and have recommended this soap to everyone - members of the Sensitive Skin Care Club included! The price is more than reasonable when you take in to account the concentration of the Castile Soap formula and all the functions this magic liquid can preform.

Dr. Bronner Magic Pure Castile Classic Soaps can be purchased in various health stores, supermarkets, department stores and various places online. Visit Dr. Bronner's company website for more information on all products they have, purchases and other retail information!


Have you tried the Dr.Bronner soap? Whats your favorite soap?


XOXO
\
ANJA

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Review - La Roche Posay Toleriane Soothing Protective Skin Care

A little more than a month ago La Roche Posay was a brand whose product complexities intimidated me so much that I actively avoided their skincare shelves and ignored the constant raves that flooded the blogosphere. Lets just say that things have definitively changed over the past few weeks!

I don't like to admit this too often but being an unapologetic girly-girl sometimes causes me to 'snub' some of the plainer products and I have been known to make purchasing decisions based purely on packaging details. If its pink, sparkly, shiny and smells good, chances are I will have a hard time resisting it!

Just one look at the La Roche Posay products will tell you that there is nothing about their packaging that could possibly reel me in. However when it comes to skincare we all need to remember that the only thing that counts is what is inside the tube and "pretty" designs should only be seen as secondary perks, at best.

My first La Roche Posay experience came in the form of the Toleriane introductory set which contained Toleriane Soothing Protective Skincare Cream, Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser and their signature Thermal Spring Water. The Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser turned out to be a huge success (review here) so I was excited to see if the Toleriane Cream would yield good results as well.

I am so happy to present you with yet another amazing La Roche Posay product. My skin loved it!

Description;

Its formula concentrated in La Roche-Posay thermal spring water soothes the tight, burning, pulling sensations found in intolerant skin. Its soft, fresh formula penetrates easily to restore skin comfort. Strict formula charter, with a minimum number of ingredients to limit allergy risks. Fragrance-free, preservative-free, paraben-free. Non-comedogenic.

Ingredients; 
Aqua/Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isocetyl Stearate, Squalane, Glycerin, Isononyl Isononanoate, Pentylene Glycol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG 100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethiconol, Ethylhexl Glycerin, Acrylates/C10 30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hydroxide. 

La Roche Posay brand doesnt need much of an introduction these days. Its a classic French pharmacy brand whose claim to fame rests on their no-frills approach to skincare and the fact that all of their products are "spiked" by their unique source of thermal spring water. They don't make too many outlandish promises or claims about "miracle molecules" and instead focus on coming up with formulations that might not be glamorous but actually do what they say they will do. I respect that kind of stance very much!
Their products are fragrance-free, preservative-free, paraben-free and non-comedogenic, which is important for those of us with reactive, problematic sensitive skin.

The Toleriane Soothing Protective Skin Cream is essentially a comforting, calming hydration treatment for very sensitive, reactive or otherwise compromised skin. Its a simple formulation designed to literally soothe and moisturize, by building up the natural skin healing cycle and reducing both sensitivity and reactivity in the future. The ingredient list is short, fillers are kept at a minimum and the simple formulation reduces additional irritation, which makes it suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. 

The texture is best described as somewhere between a lotion and light cream, never greasy, absorbs quickly and gives instant hydration relief. I love the comforting sensation as I can actually feel it working to heal and soothe my skin.
I will admit that the Toleriane Cream is not my everyday moisturizer but I do use it whenever my skin feels irritated, inflamed or particularly red. For me this works better as a hydrating treatment or a moisture mask when my complexion is in need of some serious TLC. 

My final verdict is very positive and I would recommend the Toleriane Soothing Protective Skincare ($30) to everyone but especially my fellow members of the Sensitive Skin Care Club. 
La Roche Posay prices are a bit higher than your usual drugstore skincare selections however the formulation is far more superior and thereby worth paying for. 

La Roche Posay's products can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada but selection of products varies from store to store. 

Have you tried the La Roche Posay Toleriane line up? What is your favorite La Roche Posay product?

XOXO

ANJA

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Review - Avene Antirougeurs Calm - Soothing Repair Mask

Masks are an integral part of my skincare routine and I really try to fit them in a couple times each week. Pampering and treating my skin comes hand in hand for me so I need to make sure my treatment mask choices are effective, smart and chock full of ingredients that are proven to deliver. 

Avene is a no-frills, no-nonsense, affordable French pharmacy brand whose products are all enriched with the healing properties of their exclusive Thermal Spring Water. Everything Avene makes is designed and suitable for use by those of us with sensitive skin issues, a fact that has made them popular with skincare enthusiasts and dermatologists all over the world. Further endorsement is ensured knowing that all Avene products are paraben-free, fragrance & color free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic

My own experience with Avene has always been positive and even though choosing the right products can sometimes be a challenge I have found that a little bit of research is definitively worth the effort. Customer service "skin specialists" are very helpful and genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about all of their products so consulting them is always a breeze. 

Avene Antirougeurs Calm Soothing Repair Mask is one of their less celebrated treatments, a fact most likely due to its level of specialization and function.

The soothing repair mask is a treatment used for some of the more dramatic skin emergency incidents. Essentially this stuff is to be saved for when your skin is in dire need of comfort and healing. 

Description;

When skin experiences discomfort, pulling or heated sensations, it can be hard to calm the flare-up. The Repair Mask instantly soothes angry skin with its fresh and creamy texture, and then works deep within the skin to improve skin microcirculation with Ruscus extract. This ensures that both long-term diffuse redness and temporary redness are reduced, and the skin is moisturised and repaired.

Key Ingredients;

Avene Thermal Spring Water (54%), Saponin-Enriched Ruscus Extract (0.1%), Sucralfate (1%)

The soothing and repairing nature of the mask is pronounced most dramatically when you really make your skin mad by either environmental factors (extreme weather),biological issues (over-treating-exfoliating) or just plain negligence. Just 10 minutes of wear time will deliver calmer and comfortable skin. It really is a wonder when it comes to soothing dry patches, redness, mystery rashes and otherwise compromised, inflamed skin. The palpable cooling effect reduces any heat inflammation, stinging irritation and will actually reduce skin reactivity post treatment. I like to refer to it as an "ice-pack" for your face. 

The healing factor is so intense that the Avene Antirougeurs Calm Soothing Repair Mask is widely recommended for patients post cosmetic procedures to relieve discomfort and accelerate skin's natural repair cycle. The gentle but potent nature of the formula is proven just by that fact alone - if you can use it on inflamed, post-peel skin then using it during "normal" times should be a breeze. There is no strict regiment requirement which means that the mask is to be used as needed without worrying about over-saturation or residue build up. 

The texture of the mask is very creamy, whipped and silky so it feels exceptionally nice on your skin. I love the fact that I cant detect any greasiness at all so I can leave it on comfortable without being constantly "aware of my face". Removal is fairly easy - a moist, luke-warm facecloth does the job quickly and efficiently in just a few strokes. Adding the Avene Thermal Spring Water on top (as recommended) completes the facial experience, giving you a cool, comfortable skin to work with. 

The final conclusion is very positive and I would (and have) recommend this mask to everyone but especially those with reactive, sensitive skin. Its definitively nice to have for those skin mishaps we all have once in a while. 

Avene Antirougeurs Calm Soothing Repair Mask ($33.75) and other Avene products can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart locations across Canada or purchased online at the Skinfo Skincare Boutique here. 

Have you tried Avene products? Any favorites? 

XOXO

ANJA

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Review - Avene Thermal Spring Water

I have been aware of these "thermal waters" in a can for some time, considered purchasing a few times but always found a reason not to. After all this really isn't an essential skin care item and I have always been skeptical when it comes to the phenomenon of any "healing" waters. The outlandish claims and promises of health & youth always rubbed me the wrong way so dismissing products like these came pretty easy to me. 

My first experience with Avene Thermal Spring Water was rather uneventful and my reservations came to be justified. I received an Avene skincare gift set for Christmas and the Thermal Spring Water was a part of it. I used it a few times, was underwhelmed, set it aside and then promptly forgot about its existence. 

I rediscovered it recently and decided to "trial" it properly and in turn do some research about its origins and actual promises. 

What it is;

Avene Thermal Spring Water features a unique composition which soothes, softens and restores skin's natural balance.

Clinically proven by over 300 studies to calm, soothe and soften the skin and restores skin's natural balance. It has been used since 1743 in Avene's Hydrotherapy Center to treat serious dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema.

Ingredients;

Water (100% Avene Thermal Spring Water), Nitrogen

I was surprised and initially quite alarmed to learn that Avene Thermal Spring Water originates from regular rain. Surely in this time of global industrialization and ridiculous pollution ratings, good old regular rain can't be beneficial? Apparently this rain takes a 40 year old journey through the French Cavennes Mountain aquifer and on its way collects all kinds of trace minerals, transforming into a enriched "water" which is said to restore even the most sensitive of skins. 

I was surprised to learn that the Avene Thermal Spring Water has been tested over 300 times by independent scientific institutions, which subsequently proved the soothing and skin-healing properties. Even more impressive - the Thermal Spring Water has been used in treatments for some severe dermatological diseases and conditions. For decades the healing water properties have been used for dermatitis, psoriasis, ichtiosis, acne and even superficial burns. The more I learned, the less vocal my inner sceptic became! 

Those of us who are not dealing with extreme skin issues can also reap the benefits of the Avene Thermal Spring Water. It's recommended for: makeup setting, after-shave coolant, diaper rash, facial redness, general skin refreshment, sunburns and even post surgery. 

My favorite way to use the thermal waters is just before serum or oil application to help with spread-ability and absorption. I find a single spray of this allows me to use less of whatever skin treatment i happen to be using and since it dilutes the solution a bit I can work it in to my skin faster as well. 

The most recommended way to use the Avene Thermal Spring Water is to use it throughout the day as a refresher however that's a direction I wholeheartedly disagree with. Spraying your face with any kind of water (thermal enriched or not!) causes evaporation so essentially what you are doing is removing moisture from your skin each time. That's a luxury my skin cannot afford! 

My final verdict is positive but hesitant at the same time. I believe that the Avene Thermal Spring Water ($18) is an excellent product and I can definitively feel the soothing effect on the skin but I can't consider it as an essential part of a skin routine. Basically it's a perk that is really nice to have but isn't 100% necessary. 

Avene products can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart locations all over Canada.

Have you tried Avene Thermal Spring Water? What is your opinion on these "canned" waters?

XOXO 

ANJA

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