Boots Expert Sensitive Gentle Eye Make-up Removal Lotion Sensitive Review

Sensitive skin needs extra care especially around the eyes, that's why this hypoallergenic lotion with aloe vera softens as it works. Free from fragrance and lanolin, it has a blend of light oils to gently sweep away even waterproof make-up.

Dermatologically tested.

Ingredients: Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Isopropyl Palmitate, Cocos Nucifera Oil (Coconut), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf

Normally, I would use Cetaphil during my more sensitized days or the Derma E Eyebright Make Up Remover but I came across this brand at Target. The entire line was pretty cheap even by Target standards (about $5 a bottle) so I decided to give this Boots Expert Sensitive Gentle Eye Make-up Removal Lotion a try. Um . . . I was really disappointed by the product to say the least. A lot of other oil based eye make up removers that I have tried in the past actually aren't as greasy as this product is. It really didn't do much for removing anything. It really just smeared the makeup all over around my eyes and when I tries to rinse it off it just felt like a greasy mess. Now, I have been noticing little white heads around my eyes from too much oil build up. YUCK!!!!

The Allergy Factor: Aside from the product not delivering any great results, I have to say that I have not had any allergic reactions to it.
***UPDATE***8-2-09 I actually am allergic to this product after using this product for four days, my eyes are now red itchy and swollen. The reaction was a slow build up. For the first couple of days, no reaction. Then, yesterday I noticed a little itching after I used this product and today the allergies are full blown. Itchy swollen eye lids!!!!! ahhhh!!! I am so mad! On my way to take a Benadryl. F'ing Boots you're not sensitive or gentle!

The Smell: There is none which is great. Too bad that is about the only thing I like about it.

The Bottom Line: No allergies. ***UPDATE: Allergic reaction development. See above update***No scent. No recommendation. No good. I really didn't have much to say about this product because I really didn't like it at all. It just didn't do its job - period, end of discussion. In fact, I may try to return it tomorrow and get my $5 worth of something good. BOO!

Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation SPF 15

Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation SPF 15

Bobbi's popular moisturizing formula provides SPF 15 sun protection while it hydrates skin and delivers a soft, beautiful finish. The formula is buildable, allowing medium to full coverage as desired. For Normal to Dry skin types.

WARNING: This sensitive review probably contains way too much info. What can I say? I talk a lot.

I love Bobbi Brown's make up. I have been using this specific foundation for about a year. Bobbi's color range in foundations and concealers is the absolute best. They are yellow based which is perfect for my Asian skin with olive undertones. I have to say the coverage is pretty sheer and isn't the absolute best that I've tried, but it really is buildable in a natural way. The consistency of the actual product is thin - not watery but thin. It goes on really smooth and spreads pretty easily and doesn't need too much blending.

The Routine: First, I apply a thin layer all over my face with my clean fingers. Your fingers are the best and cheapest tools you will ever have. Plus, I think there is something about the warmth that comes from your hands that kind of warms up the foundation and make it blend in better. Then, I go over the areas that need more coverage, like around my nose and on my chin and forehead. Then, I go over my blemishes or scars with concealer (also with my fingers ) and a light dusting of sheer finish loose powder with a kabuki brush all over the face to set the look. This process takes more time than say a thicker foundation that will have more coverage off the bat, but in the end my makeup looks so much more natural - not cakey and I don't have a ton of makeup where I don't really need it like on my cheeks and nose.

Touching Up: I find that I do need a touch up in the middle of the day. I touch up with my little Face Touch Up Stick (see previous posted review) stick just on my scars and blemish spots. After, I will do another super light dusting of powder over the spots that have been touched up and on my T-zone. If I am going out at night I always wash my face and reapply for a super fresh face but if I really have no time a touch up will still look really natural with this stuff.

The Allergy Factor: For the most part I have not really had any allergic reactions to the make up part of her line. However, I am really allergic to her skin care line (see previous post.) Now, this specific product is a foundation with SPF in it. I noticed that I tend to have allergic reactions to products when SPF is automatically put into make up products, it just irritates my skin. I don't know exactly what it is but I have a theory.

In general, I am allergic to chemical sunscreens. I noticed this after years of having what I thought was a sunburn all over my body every single time I went out in the sun, until I put sunblock on and stayed in doors all day. I still had the same rash or reaction. Natural physical sunblocks with ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide (minerals) physically block suns rays. Chemical sunscreen on the other hand actually absorb the rays and partially convert it into energy, which leaves free radicals on your skin or so I am told. So it is probably a chemical sunscreen is this foundation that slightly irritates my skin. It isn't the worst type of irritation - it causes some slight drying, but nothing that some extra rich soothing moisturizer can't fix. Don't get me wrong though, obviously I wound rather use a foundation that does not irritate my skin at all, but pickings are slim. Ha ha ha! But at the end of the day this foundation really does not irritate my skin enough for me to discontinue my use of this product.

The Smell: The scent in this product is super light almost nothing and that make me really happy!

Bottom line: Light scent gets a 4 out of 5 (1 worst - 5 best) The Coverage gets a 4 out of 5. I have been using this stuff for about a year but I think I am going back to using Bobbi Brown's Luminous Moisturizing Foundation because the SPF irritates my skin just a bit in this product. Other than that, I have no complaints. This makeup line really is good natural looking stuff.

My Thyroid. My Weight. My Issues.

MMM. . . cake.
For the past eleven years I have been in a losing battle with my weight and I don't stand a chance. No matter how much I work out (sometimes 3 hours a day) and how much I try to count those f'ing calories, I am still losing weight at a very discouragingly slooooooow pace. My skin is Lubriderm alligator dry. I always feel so so tired. Not in a lazy way, but fatigued. I just don't have the energy to do anything. I feel like I am constantly trying to drink coffee or tea to wake me up or keep me energized throughout the day. I get these really horrible headaches. Sometimes I find it hard to concentrate because I'm so gosh darn tired. All because I have a low functioning thyroid or Hypothyroid. I was diagnosed about 9 years ago. In the past two years, this may have effected my baby making abilities as well.

Most people who suffer from hypothyroidism have never even heard of the deficiency and do not seek treatment or look for answers until the symptoms are really bad.

Symptoms to look out for:

Severe fatigue, loss of energy, persistent sleepiness

Weight gain, difficulty losing weight

Depressed mood

Joint and muscle pain

Dry skin, brittle nails and hair, thinning hair

Irregular periods

I wanted to share this info. about my health issues for a couple of reasons. First, if you are reading this blog, chances are you have sensitive, dry skin which is a symptom of hypothyroidism. Another reason is just simply to put the word out. If you are experiencing any or all of these symptoms - Get your thyroid levels checked !!!! Some doctors don't think to check if you are not expressing any concerns or if you don't ask to be tested for this specifically.

I suffered from severe migraine headaches everyday. These headaches would last days, weeks, even months. I was prescribed all sorts of drugs ending up with prescriptions that were addictive and pretty dangerous to be taking on a daily basis. In college my weight ballooned from 100 lbs to 130 to 150 and more in the span of about 2 years! I really didn't know what was going on. My eating habits were the same as they've ever been. I even started working out when I never have before. I worked out for 2 hours a day walking/jogging for 1 hour and then lifting weights, and doing yoga for another hour. I just keep gaining weight. No matter what I did I gained and gained. My skin also became dryer than usual, my eczema worse. My hair was also changing.

On top of all of this, I was tired as hell. It was funny, my junior year in high school, before Starbucks and frappes were even popular, I had to have my morning coffee. I could not get by without the coffee or the caffeinated soda everyday, every couple of hours. In college my joint and back aches started. I thought ," Wow! Am I getting old or what?" Ha Ha. Nope, just a dang thyroid problem that I was unaware of for years!

What happened was I had to change health insurance due to my mom getting a new job. I got better doctors who listened to me and found the problem. Now, I take medication everyday. I am not completely cured or even close to it. There are times where I feel my symptoms getting worse which usually means that my levels are lower than usual and I need to up my medication dosage. Everything I went through still happens just not as severe. I still have really horrible headaches every so often. I am still really low on energy and fell really fatigued quite often. I still drink a ton of coffee (when I am not in baby mode.)

I still battle with my weight. I have been able to maintain at a certain weight, but to lose that weight is so hard! An hour and a half of cardio 4 to 5 times per week, cutting back on my portions, counting calories, pilates 3 times a week and nothing!!!!! I maybe lose 1 pound every two weeks? It is very discouraging - seriously! I know I could have more control on the eating end but I burn 400 to 700 calories doing cardio. You think that would do something! I could go on but um . . . we should move on.

I have posted a couple of resources below for more information on the subject of hypothyroidism as well as hyperthyroidism. Obviously you can always google it .

Understanding Thyroid Problems - the Basics

Information on Thyroid Health

The reddish thing is just an overlay of where the thyroid should be and look like approximately. I think I made it too big though. LOL!

Again, I really just wanted to share this in hopes that it might reach someone battling the same things. I have had my share of issues with my skin, health, as well as in the baby making dept. - no baby after almost three years of trying :( You can only talk to family and friends so much and to my surprise these on-line communities, message boards and blogs are what have helped me through some really trying times. It is always good and comforting to hear from someone that is going through the same kind of things you are. So I will continue to post if anything comes up in any of those areas :) Technology is incredible in the anonymous, "I don't know you but I Internet know you" way and that is what's great about this day in age. HA HA I am old.

So . . .that is it. Thanks for reading!

Avene Hydrance Optimale Rich Hydrating Cream

Hydrance Optimale Rich Hydrating Cream has a gentle, creamy texture that provides ultimate skin comfort and immediate soothing benefits. With its original balance restored, the skin regains a softer, smoother, more supple feel and a radiant appearance.

The Avene Dermatological Hydrotherapy Center in France, has treated sensitive skin and other skin disorders for over two centuries. Based on the soothing properties of Avene thermals spring water, proven effective by numerous scientific studies, Avene Dermatological Laboratories created a complete range of dermo - cosmetic products to care for sensitive skin.

Tested on sensitive skin by dermatologists. Hypoallergenic and non - comedogenic.

Ingredients:Water (aqua), Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Glycerin, PPG 15 Stearyl Ether, Cyclomethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carthamus Tinctoria (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG 100 Stearate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Cetearyl Glucoside, Benzoic Acid, Beta Sitosterol, BHT, C13 14 Isoparaffin, Chlorphenesin, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance (parfum), Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Laureth 7, Phenoxyethanol, Poloxamer 188, Polyacrylamide, Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum

I got this moisturizer in a little under three weeks ago. I really wanted to see if I could find something that works just as good if not better than my usual Anne Marie Borlind ZZ Sensitive Day Cream. Unfortunately, I was not impressed with this one.

I was really excited about all the positive sensitive skin reviews on this product that was supposed to be really healing, so I ordered it. I patiently waited and needed some much anticipated moisture (I was in the middle of a major allergy/skin attack - as previously posted.) I first tried this cream on the inside of my arm/elbow - no allergic reaction. The first week was fine. I didn't notice anything besides a bit of itchiness. I sort of thought this was a left over reaction to the original food allergy. It wasn't. The itchiness upon application just seem to get just a bit worse as time went on. It never amounted to a full blown rash/hive but it still slightly itchy through out the day.

This cream is made for dry to very dry sensitive skin. Although this cream didn't dry my skin out, it really didn't do much to moisturize it. I didn't necessarily feel like I had to reapply too often but by the later part of the day my skin was a little on the dry side. So I probably have to apply this cream about 2 to 3 times a day. The good thing about this cream is it's pretty light and really sinks into my skin very easily. Even after reapplying it, it never made my skin greasy or oily. I also noticed that I haven't had any acne breakouts from this product which is awesome.

The Smell: This moisturizer actually has a very strong scent to it that really bothers me. I truly believe that it is the fragrance in this product that is causing my allergy itchies which is really a shame.

I had really high hopes for this Avene product. People swear by this line and it healing properties. Their skin may not be as sensitive as mine. Although this particular product didn't work for me, I really love their Avene Thermal Spring Water spray (see review posted.) I may still give some of their other products a try just because I love the spray so much.

Bottom Line: I had a slight allergic reaction to this product which I believe is do to the strong fragrance factor. Also, I personally do not think that it was all that "moisturizing," especially since it is geared towards very dry sensitive skin. I will be discontinuing my use of this product today due to itchies and whoa! that's a ton of perfume.

Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation

Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation is a highly pigmented foundation especially formulated for drier or more mature skin & hydrates the skin with added moisture.

• Allows for truly buildable coverage, from a very sheer, weightless, "no makeup" look to more complete coverage
• Hydrates skin, softening & easing fine, dry lines
• Stays colour true and wears evenly
• Vitamins A, C & E act as antioxidants to protect the skin from harmful effects in the environment

• 
  

I have tried many foundations that claim to be hypoallergenic and have really been disappointed over and over again by the outcome - acne breakouts, itchy, flaky, red, irritated skin. As a result of all these disappointments, I am really weary about what I put in my skin. I really look into all the reviews and skin test it on my arm before I even put the product in my face.

I have heard really great things about this foundation so I decided to give it a try myself. Laura Mercier's Moisturizing foundation has really, really surprised me in a good way! I have been wearing this foundation for about three weeks now. I have not had any irritation from this product, even during my last allergy episode where my skin was flaky and cracked. No itchies and no breakouts to report. I have not noticed any drying either. In fact this foundation is really great at not settling into my dry patches and lines!

The Smell: This product has a very light pretty smell to it. It doesn't bother me at all. It's so light that I forget it has a scent :)

So this product really does everything it says its going to do. The formula is kind of watery for a foundation. I guess this is why it wears so light and natural. I really don't feel like I have a make-up mask on. Like I said, it really does hide my lines and dryness. If I do have shine it actually keeps it at bay all day. The coverage is really buildable and masks any scars and redness in my skin but still looks really natural. I have to say, the color stays true even through the current LA summer heat. Which brings us to the reason that I probably will not buy this product again.

The foundation colors in this line are really and truly limited and very disappointing! Even the woman behind the counter admits that Laura's colors are "not great" and "limiting." At first I thought maybe the consultant matched my skin wrong, so I went back to exchange it for a different color twice. Turns out the first color was the best they could do for my skin tone (I have a light to medium skin tome with olive and yellow undertones.) The color that I brought home was a shade too light with a pink undertone. It does not match my skin at all. I can wear it but I put this on really lightly and have to wear a lot more bronzer to get it to match the rest of my skin. So so sad! I just cannot bring myself to keep wearing it when I have to work so hard to make it work.

Bottom Line: I have not had any allergic reactions to this product. I love the formula and its buildable coverage. It applies easily and wears really smooth and natural but the colors suck a**!
Overall, I do highly recommend this foundation. Maybe you'll one of lucky ones and find a color in Laura Mercier's line that actually works for you. Unfortunately I didn't. This is definitely going to be a Return due to poor color selection.
Boo :(

Dior's DiorShow Mascara Sensitive Review

Inspired by the runway and behind-the-scenes tricks, DiorShow Mascara gives lashes a triple-shot of glamour, leaving them luxuriously thick, lengthened and curled to the max. Its easy-to-use XXL brush is generously curved for maximum coverage, while its logo-stamped silver packaging makes it a fashion must-have for every handbag!

I'm not sure that the logo makes this a fashion must have. That is just f*ing ridiculous. I mean really? Really? Unless you're such a label whore that this really does appeal to you. Then I have no words . . . Ha ha!

Anyway, I love this mascara! I have full lashes but they are not very long or very thick so I really need that extra umph. This mascara really does the trick with its extra thick and very black formula. The brush itself is really big and full which is great for grabbing those lashes. I have never experience any clumping with this product, even after three coats. The mistake I made with one tube was to keep it in my car (I would do my makeup in my car before work.) Do not do this! At first, it didn't seem to affect it too much. The color, smell and texture when applying were the same, but as the day wore on it became flaky and broke off leaving little black mascara flakes on my cheeks. I have to mention this because I have read reviews that DiorShow will do this very thing. It was probably because you left it in a purse or car on a hot day. Don't blame the mascara! Speaking of a hot day . . . I sweat and I tend to tear up a lot (allergies, being emotional, laughing hysterically)and still, even the non-waterproof formula stays put with no smudges.

Now for the Allergy Factor:

The Smell: It has one, it does but its a pretty "I just spent twenty something dollars on mascara so I have to love it" smell. Ha ha. I normally don't like anything with scent or fragrance in it but this just works too well for me to pass up just because it smells good, you know?

I cannot sleep in this mascara. I have been drunk and had to sleep in my make-up. I always regret doing it in the morning. I know that I can put this on and wear it all day and well into the night and not think about whether it will give me puffy, itchy eyes. Wohoo! But the minute I sleep in it I wake up rubbing my puffy, itchy eyes. I also never put this on when an allergy attack is in full force. I try not to put anything on when I'm in the middle of an episode. I also have to mention that I have a slightly more severe allergic reaction to the waterproof formula for some odd reason.

Bottom Line: I say if you are really sensitive like I am, still give it a try just because it is just a great product. I really do stand by this mascara despite its scent and my overnight allergy to it. It does everything: great brush, great formula, really black color, lengthens and thickens without weighing my lashes down. It's only downfall is that compared to the drugstore $10 mascaras (that can probably do a great job as well) it is really pricey at $20 something a pop. I think it's worth it though *shrugging shoulders*

Remember: what works/doesn't work for me can have an opposite effect on you. Everyone's sensitivities are different:)

I am obsessed with MAC Eyeshadows! Sensitive Review

My makeup obsession started in Junior High School when my mom bought me my first Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey. It was the perfect natural berry stain and it was mine . . . all mine. Since then, I've gone though the really ridiculous dark lipstick phase and the "I wear so much makeup, you could peel it off me and wear it as a mask" look.

The whole time my skin has been on this roller coaster of allergic reactions. My face would itch, swell, peel, and flake so much so that I would have to moisturize all day long. I knew I was sensitive but let's face it, at that age I just didn't care!

Now I have no choice but to be very selective about what I put on my skin. With eczema, adult acne, scarring, allergies and some major dryness, I am really self conscious about my skin. So I am going to start to post a review on anything and everything that I use on my skin. Hopefully there is someone out there who's skin and self confidence will benefit from a little sensitive skin wisdom.

I have tried every brand available to me and with some brands some colors irritate me and some don't. Just to name a few: Shiseido, Clinique, Urban Decay, Stila, Perscriptives, Dior, and Cargo are ones that I have had allergic reactions to some but not all of their products. Lamcome and Estee Lauder have major irritants in their products so I have learned to just not go there!

First on my list of great products for sensitive skin . . . MAC Eye Shadows!

I really cannot say enough about their eye shadows. For the most part, I have had great sensitive skin results with them (strictly and specifically the eye shadows.) I wear a number of these shades, matte as well as shimmer shades, everyday without any irritation. I am so thankful that my skin just happens to be compatible with this brand's eye shadows . With their vast range of colors and finishes, I really don't miss out on all the make up fun! I have recently started buying the palettes. I am so excited and so obsessed with my collection nowadays. It's sick - seriously! I am just happy that I can wear these great colors and not be afraid of having itchy, watery, puffy eyes!

Some of my faves are:

Brule

This shade is the first one I put on over my base all over my eyes just to even out whatever color (redness or darkness) there might be.

Retrospeck
This is the perfect shimmery highlight shade to brighten up the inner corners of my eyes and highlight just beneath my brows.

All That Glitters
This warm shimmery nude shade is a great neutral that I use on my lids. A quick wash of this just kind of warms up the color of my lids. On a really easy make-up day, this and some simple black eye liner and I'm done!

Beautiful Iris
I am obsessed with this shade for the summer. I wear this on my lids as a light wash of color to keep it simple during the day. For a night time look, I like to wear this on my lid, Knight Divine or Print in my crease, and some smokey black eyeliner with Carbon, and loads and loads of black mascara. LOVE this color!

Shale
Shale looks like it would be an obvious purple but it's not. I use this on my lid and it just has a slight purple hue to it. It is almost neutral. I like to wear this with my brown/neutral shades just to mix things up a tiny bit.
Tilt
This is my new favorite! My sister gave this to me because she already had this in her collection. She loved the color so much she accidentally bought two. I am so glad. Before I got this, I was to scared to wear color. This color is what really got me going on wearing brights and colors instead of my everyday neutral eye. It is a totally wearable blue shade that has a silver hue to it. I love this on the lid with Knight Divine in the crease and Contrast(navy) as a liner. Just a simple smokey blue/gray eye.
Soba
Soba is my go to for a really neutral eye. I wear this right in the crease for a little definition.
Soft Brown
This is a new fave in my collection. I use this in my crease when I am going for a peachy clean look. When I'm doing my red lipped pin up look, I use Shroom on my lid and this perfect simple shade to define my crease with. Just throw on some dramatic black liner and that's it! This shade is also great for blending your darker crease colors to your highlight for a seamless effect.

Tempting
Tempting has been my faves for years, probably since High School (that is long time.) It is a golden brown, highly shimmery shade. I use this in my crease. It is also really great for smoking out your brown or black liner for a smokey day time look. It has shimmer and a hint of gold that catches the light and really softens those lines for a simply put together look.

Print
This medium grey shade works with my neutrals, browns, blues, purples . . . oh just about anything! This is a must have. It is so versatile - light handed, it's great for lids, in the crease, it's the perfect grey eye, and as a liner - so smokey. I Love Love Love!
Knight Divine
Knight Divine is a blue toned shimmery dark grey. This is the shade I go to when Print just doesn't have enough umph and shimmer. This is the perfect shade for a very sexy smokey eye!
Mystery
The go to dark brown for everyone. Perfect for extra definition in the crease and as a liner. I have brown/black hair so I use this with a little bit of cork to define my brows.

Carbon
The blackest black shadow. I use this over my cream or liquid liner to smoke it out or for extra staying power. Cannot live without this!

Note: So far, their eyeshadow are the only thing I buy without worry from this line. I do have to tell you, I try and stay away from their bases, i.e. MAC Creme Colour Base, Paints, and Paint Pots because I have had allergic reactions to them. I do wear some of their lipsticks but have mixed reactions to specific colors and formulas but that's another story.

Bottom Line: I am obsessed with MAC eye shadows because they have a great range of beautiful, versatile colors that I am NOT allergic to.

NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit

Don't let allergies and chronic sinus issues ruin your day. Use the Sinus Rinse kit, a physician developed, complete saline nasal rinse kit. The Sinus Rinse kit helps to alleviate allergies, chronic sinus disease, and other nasal irritation from things like occupational dust, smog, and smoke. Super easy to use and travel with, too. Pre-measured packets take the guesswork out of preparing the solution and keep things clean. Plus, the smooth flow bottle empties 100% in the upright position. The kit includes the rinse bottle with cap and tube, 50 packets of saline powder, and a helpful educational pamphlet. Preservative and latex free, pH balanced, and no burning or stinging.

This description of the NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit really does not tell you exactly how you're going to rinse your sinus, does it? Ha Ha!

Well, let me first start off by saying, this stuff really works! My allergies are a hundred times better. I have really severe allergies to everything nature and chemical allergies as well. I have long suffered from runny noses, bloody noses, sore throats from post nasal dripping, and just about everything you could think of! At one point I took a Sudafed everyday for my sinus headaches. This product has been a god send! The Rinse helps to flush out all the dust, pollen and everything else that causes those allergies. My headaches hardly ever make an appearance and I sleep so much better since I've been using this. Now that I have said my piece . . .

The process is as follows:

1. You fill your water bottle to fill line with warm water. Remember: not hot, warm!
   
2. Take your little pack of solution and pour it into the bottle.
3. Shake it around gently to mix.
4. Blow your nose gently to get all that extra gunk out - eww!
   
5. Now, your going to take the bottle, put the tip of the bottle up to your nostril and . . .
   
6. Squeeze the water into your nose . . . yes into your nostril up your nose!
   

What is going to happen?

The water will go up your nose and out through either your other nostril or if you are really stuffed up, your mouth, clearing out your sinuses. Make sure you breathe through your mouth while the the water is flushing through.

Yikes! This all sounds like an awkward and disgusting process. Believe me, I know! The first time I did this I thought, "Ugh! Are my mocos/boogies/snot really coming out my mouth!" Yeah! they are and it's gonna be pretty gross and its gonna be pretty salty. But after, you will feel sooooo much better!

If you do it right, you should not feel like you got water up your nose like in a pool. Some people say they feel a slight sting. This is not the case with me. I usually do a whole bottle to each side when I am really stuffed up. I use this rinse daily , once during the morning and once before bed. Beware: You might experience some nose water/snot leakage minutes after you are done with the rinse. I think this happens because not everything gets flushed out right away and what ever is left over really loosens up after a couple of minutes. Drip. Drip. So, until you know how you will react to it, keep a tissue handy.

Bottom Line: I cannot live without this product. Without it I would be a sneezing, nose rubbing mess! Although the process may be a bit weird to get used to, it really helps with clearing your sinus. It is natural and doesn't require a prescription. I say everything is worth a try for the luxury of actually being able to breath! Ahh, Sniff! Sniff!

Avene Thermal Spring Water

Soothes and Softens Sensitive Skin

• 
  

• Hypoallergenic
• Preservative - Free
  

Avene thermal spring water spray is packaged in a sterile compartment on the actual site of the spring. This packaging technology, which is unique of its kind in the world, guarantees a product whose biological purity and effectiveness are completely intact. In addition, the spray is sealed with a tamper - proof protective film.

Avene thermal spring water, discover the most beautiful way to care for sensitive skin...

Made in France

I love this spray! I first did an allergy test by spraying the product on the inner part of my arm/elbow - no negative reactions, no redness and no itching. I've been using this product for about a week now. I spray it on right before I put my moisturizer on and just lightly pat it dry with a tissue. Then, after I put on my makeup and dust my powder all over my face, I spray this on to set the makeup. This just makes everything look just a little dewy, moisturized, and natural. You can also use this when you touch up your makeup and just to refresh your face anytime of the day, it feels so cool and refreshing. ohhhhh! ahhhh! Just like that.

This product is very similar to the Evian Spray Brumisateur Natural Mineral Water which I used to use religiously.

The Evian spray is good for moisture and also as a refresher spray but I really like this Avene spray much better. It might just be me but I feel like it really helps, not just with the moisture but it also has this soothing affect on my skin. Last week I had a really bad allergy breakout all over my face, neck, and body. I sprayed this on and it really helped to soothe the burning, itchy feeling.

Bottom Line: I am so happy with this product! I will definitely buy this again and will continue using it on a daily basis.

Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream

Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream

This nourishing cream replenishes skin with the moisture it loses daily. Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream is formulated with Algae Extract, a hydrating botanical, and Kukui Nut Oil, a natural extract that effectively softens skin and prepares it for smooth, seamless makeup application. Dermatologist-tested.

Ingredients: Water (aqua purificata) purified, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Glycerin, Isostearyl neopentanoate, Stearic acid, Hydrogenated vegetable oil, Dimethicone, Cetyl alcohol, Dea-cetyl phosphate, Lime (citrus aurantifolia) juice, Tocopheryl acetate, Aloe vera (aloe barbadensis) gel, Lemon (citrus limonum) juice powder, Sodium pca, Sodium hyaluronate, Retinyl palmitate, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, Tocopherol, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, Stearyl alcohol, Disodium edta, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, FD&C yellow no. 5 (CI 19140), FD&C red no. 4 (CI 14700).

I have been told time and time again, whenever I pick up my foundation, that I should really try the skin care because the whole line is really geared toward sensitive skin . . . blah, blah, blah! What a SUCKER I was! Even despite my better judgement upon trying this product at the counter, and smelling it, I purchased it.

I tried this Hydrating Face Cream about 6 months ago for about three weeks. I really wanted this moisturizer to work for me because I love Bobbi Brown's foundation and face powders. I thought that since I haven't had any problems with the her cosmetics, maybe the skin care would work for me as well. For $50 a pop you think it would be the best thing ever.

Sadly, I really didn't take to it. The cream although really rich, was more like a paste. This product really didn't have a long lasting effect of my skin. I had to re-apply to feel "moisturized" and because the consistency was so thick, I just ended up feeling really greasy. In the end, it really didn't help to soothe my skin. As far as actually being allergic to it, I did have a slight reaction to it with little itches and some breakouts on my chin and forehead.

The Smell : (I think "The Smell" should get its own section in all my reviews now.)
It smells - that is what the problem is! Ha ha. I really don't like anything with a strong scent to it and this was just as strong as anything Este` Lauder would have made. No good for people with sensitive skin. No good for me.

Unfortunately, I bought this at a department store that didn't really have too great of a return policy. So, I ended up giving it to my mom. Background on Mom: She is in her early 60's with really fair, combination skin, no sensitivity, hardly any wrinkles. She loved it and has recently switched to over to the Bobbi Brown Extra SPF 25 Tinted Moisturizer.

Bottom Line: On ME: I wanted to make it work but it just didn't impress me. It was heavy without being soothing or really moisturizing - just greasy. Allergy result: After three weeks, it made me breakout with acne and little itchy patches on my forehead and chin. I don't know exactly what is was but the strong scent in the product didn't help either. On my MOM: Keep in mind, she has perfect skin with not an ounce sensitivity to department store skin care products and she LOVED it. I have to admit her skin does look better now. ***shrugging my shoulders***

Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick

Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick

Bobbi's innovative Foundation Stick is designed for portability and adjustable coverage. Easy to apply and blend all over the face or just where you need it. For all skin types, except very oily.

I first tried this foundation when I had a really bad acne streak. I needed something gentle with more coverage than my usual foundation could offer without looking caked on. So of course i went to my fave BB counter at Nordstrom's.

I was really excited for the convenient packaging, I could just pop it into my purse and go. This product offered great coverage and it really seamed to cover my blemishes with ease. The only thing that really bothered me was that the consistency was really thick, even when applied sparingly with a brush. At the end of the day it seemed to settle into my dry patches and lines. So, my solution was to use my regular foundation all over my face. Then, only apply this foundation stick to the tiniest of areas that needed the full coverage which seemed to work better but I still was not satisfied. After a while I noticed that the product was actually making my breakouts more pustular. Eek! It was like my face could not breath.

Bottom Line: This product had the coverage I was looking for but I just was not happy with this its thickness. I don't think I was allergic to it. It just was not for my skin type. BLAH!

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner

This award-winning liner offers the precision of a liquid liner and the ease of a gel-based formula.

Awarded: "Elle" ‘Genius Award’ (April 2008), "In Style" 'Best Beauty Buy' (2008), and "Allure" ‘Reader's Choice Award’ (2008).

With my allergies and sensitive eyes, it is hard for me to find an eye liner that doesn't make my eyes tear or puff up. This eyeliner has not caused any problems so far but be informed, I tend not to wear eyeliner or mascara during my flare ups.

I purchased this product over a year ago when I was really into my dramatic liquid eyeliner phase, so I didn't use it too often and just kind of forgot about it. Just recently I've been doing this smokey day time eye and well, I wanted something that would blend and smoke out easily. I found this in my drawer and decided to give it another try.

I LOVE this gel eyeliner! It is much more forgiving than my usual liquid eyeliner but goes on just as dark and lasts just as long. I love it because even though you have to work really quickly with this stuff, you can smudge it out and it will stay in place like that all day long! Its my new fave for night time liner too just because I tend to get a bit sweaty on the dance floor - it does not smudge and is still there for late night diner/taco truck eats.

I did buy the BB brush that they recommend with this but when using this, I found that using an angled eye-liner brush with stiff synthetic bristles from any brand works. This gel eye liner goes on like butter baby - smooth and easily correctable. Beware: You MUST make sure the jar is SEALED TIGHTLY or your product will dry out. Like most BB cosmetics that some in tiny jars, it's pricey but this product only needs the tiniest amount to do a big job.

Bottom Line: No allergic reactions. I'm glad I gave this another try and I highly recommend this gel eyeliner!

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit and Corrector

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit

Bobbi's secret to the beauty universe. This kit includes Creamy Concealer on top and Sheer Finish Loose Powder on bottom to set concealer for long-lasting wear.

Bobbi Brown Corrector

For very dark circles and extra coverage, Bobbi's secret is her Correctors. Use daily or just when you need extra coverage. Designed to be layered under your yellow-based Creamy Concealer shade, Correctors come in Bisque and Peach shades.

Just this year I have really noticed the dark blue-ish circles under my eyes. I'm an insomniac with allergies and just a number of health issues so I always look tired, but I am now into my late twenties so they are a bit darker than usual. After using this concealer kit, I look like I've had a great nights' sleep and my whole face just seems brighter. I have never had an allergic reaction to this product. I use this everyday, even on my most sensitized days. I just love it!

Bobby Brown truly is an expert at creating natural looking makeup that makes you look like the best version of yourself. Her colors are amazingly natural on me (Asian with olive/yellow undertones) because if its yellow base. The corrector just helps to get rid of the blue undertone in my dark circles and makes my eyes look flawless.

The small pot is chock full of product and will last you well into four to five months. The concealer and corrector are really thick and a very little bit really does go a long way. The Sheer Finish Powder is simply amazing! You can buy it in a full size loose powder in the same yellow based sheer color that comes in the kit. I love using this to even out the color on my lids and even as a subtle high light underneath my brows. It just looks really natural and clean.

So the routine is: Eye Cream, Corrector, Concealer, then a dusting of the Sheer Finish Loose Powder that comes in the lower part of your concealer kit.

I found that this product still settles a little tiny bit as the day goes on. Nothing that a quick touch-up could not fix. I usually just take a clean finger and blend it in a tiny bit and done! It does not get cakey or dry as some other products. If you get the kit and dust the sheer finish powder on top of it it won't settle in your lines as much, just don't over do it.

I have used MAC which I didn't like at all. It was too thick and just ended up settling into my lines and dry spots. Laura Mercier's concealer was okay as far as coverage and consistency, but the color just did not match my skin tone, so I returned it and went back to BB.

Bottom Line: I love this concealer and have been using it for a couple of years now. Every time I try to venture away from it, I just end up coming right back. I've never had an allergic reaction to it. Looking at the size of this product, you'll think it's too pricey but it really does last a really long time. Best Concealer I've ever used!

Bobbi Brown Face Touch Up Stick

Bobbi Brown Face Touch Up Stick

"Keep your foundation looking fresh all day with Bobbi's NEW Face Touch Up Stick. Carry this mini stick in your makeup bag, and use it to conceal any imperfections, redness or blemishes. Its creamy, full-coverage formula is perfect for the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin (not the under eye area), and is ideal for normal and combination skin types. Available in our full range of 17 shades."

It's about the size of a slim lip gloss. I have lots of scars, blemishes, and random irritated red spots on my face. No matter how skilled I am at applying and setting that foundation in the morning, things tend to peek out for me at around 2 or 3pm. This little tiny wonder of portable foundation is perfect for middle of the day touch ups. The only set back is, I have a lot of dry skin patches and if this is the case for you as well, you may want to purchase and use with caution. The actual product is smooth and easy to blend over normal skin but on dry or flaky skin it tends to settle in giving that caked on look. So this touch up stick for me strictly goes on old scars and the random red spots that are not dry in any way. I'm not at all allergic to this product which is a huge plus and Bobbi Brown has always been a master at matching skin tones in the most natural way and in any light.

Bottom Line: Good Stuff! No allergic reactions to this product. Convenient coverage and blendability is excellent on normal skin. Colors look very natural, but you may experience cakey-ness if you have really dry skin.

Allergy Return/Exchange Friendly Stores

For the person that literally needs to try products before you commit to "Surprise!!! Two weeks later you are allergic to it!" products.

Having a sensitivity to many skin products . . . well, for lack of a better fitting word, just plain SUCKS!

With some products my allergies to them are pretty obvious. I put them on and right away I feel burning, itching or a light swelling coming on. Most skincare companies and products nowadays are weary of sensitive skin, being eco-friendly and people's aversions to chemical ingredients. These products seem like they understand, they are here for you, they will do their very best to soothe and heal your skin troubles. They are sneaky!

To some people with average skin sensitivity, these are all great promises which for the most part are fulfilled. But for people like me, it really just means that now I have to filter through all the sweet talk and empty promises that these products whisper so softly into my ear. They are all the things they say at first try but two weeks later they start to turn. I notice a little redness at first, then the slight itching.

I'm in denial at first. Maybe it was something I ate. Maybe the wind picked up some pollen, or dust, or a near by animal's dander and blew it into my face. I've got to be sunburned, right?

Here is where I never learn:
I go back and look at my little corner of products. I look at the new ones like they have betrayed me. I read the labels like a prosecutor. Then if the products had really great reviews or were really expensive, I'm hesitant, but I just can't bear to think that I'm out another twenty or thirty maybe even fifty bucks! So, I give them another shot. Then, one day I look in the mirror and my face is flaking off, breaking out and a full on itch takes over. LIES! You never really knew how sensitive I was and you didn't really care!

RETURN! RETURN! RETURN!
But how many days has it been? What is the return policy? Shoot, where is the receipt? I'm screwed aren't I?

In this day in age, it's all about "natural," holistic and organic but does this mean that the bubble girls and guys of the world can roam freely and purchase everything that claims to be healing, soothing and dermatologist recommended? NO! big fat in my red, itchy face NO!

You spend all this time and money only to find out week after purchasing numerous products, weeks or even months later, you are allergic to them! Oh the injustice of the 14 or 30 day, unused/unopened return policy! After years of this love/hate relationship with my lovely bottles of broken promises and unexpected life long friendships, I have found some stores whose isles offer a kind of haven that makes me feel safe to try things out casually. Just maybe this casual fling will turn into a great relationship and if not, we knew before hand what sort of non-commitment we are making here.

Whole Foods Market Click the link for a location near you.

Info. from company website:

"Why pay more for exceptional quality vitamins and skin care products? Most of the prices of conventional industry products sold in department stores and pharmacies reflect the advertising dollars poured into the promotion of the products. Many of these products are created using ingredients and standards Whole Foods Market is strictly against, no animal testing, no artificial colors, preservatives, and fragrances.

That's why many of the products on Whole Body's shelves may not be recognizable but that is because they put the money where it should be, into the product! "

"Our Body Care products are made clean and exceptionally well made. Again, a Whole Body Team Member will be happy to find the skin care product that is right for you and if you are not happy with your purchase we will be happy to refund your money or issue you a store credit for your return."

This is true! Anytime I go to my neighborhood Whole Foods I am greeted by a friendly, informative, patient sales person. The people that work in their skincare section are always there and if you only work this one section you are going to have to be good at it - these guys are! They deal with really picky, well informed customers that know what they want out for these "clean" products on a daily basis. They even have testers for most of their skin products to you can try them on the inner part of your arm/elbow and walk around the store to see if you get any initial irritation to the product!

I have never ever had a problem returning a product that I was unhappy with or allergic to. No questions asked really. So I am happy to say go! Roam the aisles and ask some questions. heck! Go ahead and buy a couple of things why don't you. You will not be disappointed at the very least with the return policy.

Sephora Stores Click on the link for a location near you.
I love Sephora. Like Whole Foods they have samples and testers of skincare and makeup products for you to try in store. While I can't vouch for all the natural product lines, I have never had a problem with returns whether it was after one week or even five weeks. No guilt. No questions. I returned a cleanser that was supposed to be really gentle after using more than a quarter of the product because I realized it wasn't for me after 6 weeks. Yay! I'm a little more careful with this store because the products are pretty pricey sometimes, especially the "natural" stuff. Check out their return policies on Sephora.com.

Nordstroms

Famous for their wonderful return policies. Check www.nordstrom.com for the specifics! Time and time again I buy, I try and if I happen to be allergic or unhappy with the product, I return and without so much as a wink and my credit or cash is back in my pocket.

The staff in the Beauty section should be happy to give you little samples of whatever skincare products you might want to try at home. I just stopped by for some new foundation samples from the Dior, and Laura Mercier Lines. The girls were really helpful and knowledgeable.

Love this place. With prices up the wazoo, I would never take a chance with a place that does not cater to the happiness of their customers with a good return policy.

If you have any comments/questions or know of any other store or websites that offer similar return policies, please share! Thanks!

Sensitive Scalp - Go'n Brush Your Shoulders Off No More!

I have had itchy scalp since I can remember, but getting into my twenties I was really into the hair dying, heat curling/straightening, and styling products. I started to develop this irritated, itchy, flaky scalp. Occasionally, I even had eczema patches on my scalp! It was really embarrassing having to check my mirror for flakes on my clothes and in my hair. For a good long time I just tied my hair back really tight everyday. Somehow I didn't realize that I was just allergic to all the hair products I've been using.

DUH!
If your face and the rest of your body is even a little sensitive to regular products and even the sun, chances are so is your scalp. With all the fragrances and chemicals put into hair care products, no wonder everyone is dusting their shoulders off - not cause you're feelin' like a pimp but because shoot, you got some white, flaky goodness on those shoulders!

Not a thing for me anymore. Ever since I have started using natural lightly or unscented products in my hair/scalp I haven't had to deal with the shoulder snow! A huge plus to these products are they can be found in Vitamin Shoppes as well as your neighborhood Wholefoods or at your online shops. They are not as cheap as the drugstore products but are very reasonably priced when you think about all the money you spend on the salon quality products not to mention the comfort and confidence boost of not having to constantly brush your shoulders off, it is well worth it!

Products that I am currently using:

Earth Science Shampoo and Conditioner

Fragrance Free for Sensitive Hair and Scalp

Ingredients: Water, Sodium Myreth Sulfate, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Wheat Germ Amidopropyl Betaine, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Hydrolized Wheat Protein, Panthenol, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Hydroxymethlyglycinate

I really like this product! I am probably on my tenth bottle or more :) It lathers well and really leaves my hair feeling clean without drying it out. I have really thick, frizzy, course hair the majority of it being fairly straight with some random wavy patches. So, I tend to use more of the conditioner than the shampoo so I usually get two Conditioner bottles to one Shampoo Bottle every time I purchase these. My hair is soft, manageable and shiny, never weighed down. Even with all the conditioner I like to load it up with, it always rinses clean and is never greasy.

The scent of these products isn't the raw clinical fragrance free scent which some people say get funky if stored for a long time. Even though there isn't an obvious scent to it, somehow it is still very pleasant when you actually apply it. The Conditioner has more of an almondy scent to it. My husband always tells me my hair smells good but when I ask him what it smells like, he says it doesn't smell like anything, just good and clean. Ha ha!

Bottom line: Not too pricey at $5 to $7, these products have never irritated my scalp, are good for my hair and smell like good nothing-ness. Highly recommended.

Jason Natural Cosmetics Fragrance Free
Daily Shampoo and Conditioner: For All Hair Types

Free of Parabens, harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrance.

Ingredients: Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Gel (Aloe Vera), Sodium Myreth Sulfate, Cocamide MEA, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract (Chamomile), Salvia Officinalis Extract (Clary Sage), Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract (Brown Algae), Cetrimonium Chloride, Vegetable Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate

At first I loved this shampoo, I even re-purchased it multiple times. The Shampoo really lathers well and rinses incredibly clean.

These Products are truly unscented and are just straight forward products that do what they say they are going to do. This is what I love about the Jason brand! They are a really great no BS natural company that created great products at affordable prices.

The problem I had with this product is, after a couple of months it really started to dry and dull my hair. I think because of my hair type it just wasn't working for me. None the less, it is a pretty good option if your scalp is sensitive but you have more of an oily hair type.

Bottom Line: Great Brand, Great product, just not for me. If you have a sensitive scalp but an oily hair type this could do great things for you.

Giovanni Frizz Be Gone

Cyclomethicone, Soybean Protein (Glycine Soja), Dimethicone, Tocopherol (*Vitamin E), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Extract, Nettle (Urtica Dioica) Oil, Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) Oil, Octylmethoxycinnamate

This stuff is great! It's a clear, lightly scented serum. You literally need just a couple of drops. I warm the product up by rubbing it together in the palm of my hands, start at the ends of my do and work my way up. It gives my thick black/brown hair that extra shine that I am always looking for. I use it on damp hair to tame frizzies and just generally smooth out the texture of it. I also use it after straightening or curling my hair. Beware: A little really goes a long way and if you use too much it will make your hair look oily. It really is gentle enough that I can wear it all day long and it never causes any breakouts or rashes on my face and scalp. But because it does have a scent to it, I usually wash my hair before bed whenever I use it just because I am a super crazy sensitive paranoid person. When I have slept with this product in my hair after a late night, I'm usually okay in the morning.

Bottom Line: Even though it has a light fragrance to it, it's gentle. It works as well as any salon quality product that I've tried but with a more wallet friendly price and no harsh ingredients.

Wicked Wax Styling Pomade By Giovanni Organic Hair Care

Ingredients: Aqua with Rosmarinus Officinalis, Urtica Dioica, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia, Papaver Orientale, Rosa Canina, Ceteareth-25, Glycerin, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenyl Trimethicone, Disodium EDTA, Panthenol, Silica, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Fragrance with Essential Oils

January this year I went from thick, black ,straight-ish hair down my back to an asymmetrical bob that ended just below my chin. I just had to chop chop chop it all off!

I found that although long hair is a pain to straighten or curl, I didn't need too much product to make it look good. This trendy bob was in my faceall the time! With all the weight of the length gone, I had even more flyaways. I needed to find a gentle enough product that I could wear close to my face safely and I really wanted this piecey, edgy look.

This product did it all! You only need to use a very small amount and it takes care of any flyaways, adds shine, separation and gives hair a piecey, cool look! The scent isn't pretty but pleasant and light, which makes it great for guys with the piecey messy do or the faux/mo-hawk look. It also has great hold! And . . . and it says it's organic!

It comes in a little tub that has a non-fussy top that you could just pop open - no screwing with sticky hands with this packaging!

As far as being gentle enough for me, I have never notices any direct irritation from it. To be honest, I only use this when I dress to impress. When I have an allergy attack to anything else, I don't put on any hair styling products just to be extra careful. I always wash my hair before bed with this product. The scent although light, is still a scent. After having it on all day, it does bother me. The waxy-ness is great for the style I'm trying to achieve but too greasy for me to sleep in.

Bottom Line: Recommended. Although gentle, it is not an everyday product for me just because of the scent. As far as styling: It's one of the best waxes I have ever used - way better than anything I've purchased in a Walmart, Target or drugstore and pretty comparable to a Schwarzkopf Osis Wax It Shine Wax product I used to use. At half the price it's a steal!


Remember: What doesn't work/works for me may have an opposite effect on you. Everyone's allergies and sensitivities are different.

Good Luck and Thanks for Reading!