Showing posts with label skincare. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skincare. Show all posts

Monday, September 16, 2013

Review: Origin's Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask


Formulated with active charcoal, this mask promises, by virtue of that same active charcoal, to vacuum out pores to de-clog them.  White China absorbs environmental toxins, and lecithin dissolves impurities.

The mask itself is a dark grey color with a smooth consistency that takes on on a gel like cream.  Formulated without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs, and triclosan, this product is good for all skin types and is one of Origins' top sellers.

To use this product, place a warm towel onto your face.  This assists with opening the pores in order to allow the mask to vacuum out dirt and toxins most effectively.  Apply the mask to your face and rinse off after 10 minutes.  

My face felt very clean after I rinsed the mask off my face.  I took particular notice of the fact that the area around my nose felt much smoother, which is indicative that my pores were de-clogged.  However, I had small bumps on my chin that did not go away, and a closer inspection of my nose showed that blackheads were still present.  In terms of hydration, my skin felt a bit on the tight side.  I have normal to combination skin so the fact that my skin was left a bit tight from the mask indicates that this product is a bit drying.  Josie Maran's argan oil instantly fixed this.

The product is affordable at $24 for 3.4 fl oz. 

Truth be told, I've been looking for a more affordable alternative but equally as effective to GlamGlow's Super Mud.  If you recall in this POST, I was absolutely in love with Super Mud after but one use.  At about $70 for 1.2 oz, however, my wallet is advising me to seek a mistress.  I cannot help but remember how effective GlamGlow's charcoal mask was even after a night's sleep - my skin continued to feel smooth and soft like a baby's bum the morning after.  This is in contrast with Origins' mask.  Moreover, GlamGlow's charcoal mask did not leave my skin as dry and tight as Origin's charcoal mask.  Quite frankly, it is also downright mesmerizing, in a weird way, to see the dots of the Pore Matrix revealed on your face from GlamGlow's mask.  

Maybe with continued use, Origin's mask will de-clog all of my pores.  I'd caution those with dry skin to use this as it does have a drying effect on the skin.  I can't say that I'm impressed with this product, though.  Despite its hefty price tag, I'd still fork out the cash for GlamGlow's Super Mud.

Friday, March 29, 2013

First Impression - Smashbox's CC Cream

Smashbox's CC Cream found its way to my inbox yesterday so of course I HAD to try it immediately.


Advertised as follows: "The advanced, lightweight formula neutralizes and brightens skin for a more even complexion.  It's also proven to fade dark spots, sun spots and post acne-marks instantly and over time.  Primes, perfects, protects (with SPF 30!), moisturizes and controls oil...prevents discoloration in the future."

My first impression:
  • Creamy formula
  • Gives more coverage than Smashbox's BB Cream counterpart but I don't consider this medium/heavy coverage
  • Disappears into the skin
  • Sets to a satin finish, not dewy
  • It's been about 6 hours now and my face has not gotten oily (I'm usually oily in my T Zone area)
This formula differs from Smashbox's BB Cream in that CC Cream is advertised to fade dark spots, sun spots, and discoloration over a period of time.  Smashbox's BB Cream does not advertise these benefits.  

I can't speak to the long lasting skin benefits of this product as I haven't used it long enough.  However, upon first impression, this cream seems to function like a tinted moisturizer with added skin benefits that should become noticeable over time.  

Will I purchase this again?  I'm leaning towards no at this point because my current BB Cream (Miisha M Perfect Cover) offers coverage as well as skin benefits that you immediately see once the cream sets.  I will blog more about BB creams in a future post once I'm done testing out a few different brands so stay tuned, dear readers!

Thursday, March 28, 2013

Clarisonic Brush Head Value Pack!

For all of you Clarisonic fans and users - There is currently a great value pack for Clarisonic brush heads right!  Get 4 for the price of 3.  Retails for at $75 (valued at $100).


Available at: Sephora, Macys.com, Ulta, SpaLook.com, Dillards.com, Belk.com, Nordstrom

If you are ordering online, this product qualifies for FREE SHIPPING since the purchase is over the monetary minimum required for free shipping with each of the above mentioned retailers.

Happy shopping!