Month: March 2017

How To Apply Skin Care Cosmetics In The Correct Order And Why It Matters

How To Apply Skin Care Cosmetics In The Correct Order And Why It Matters:

I previously discussed a lot of skin care products and that brought forth questions, mostly about not WHAT to use, but HOW to use them.  One of the questions I am most frequently asked involves the order in which products should be applied.  This seems to be universally confusing to most users.  People seem to wonder about how to apply skin care cosmetics in the correct order and why it matters.  The sequence in which you apply skin care products actually does make a difference and there is a right way and wrong way.

Too Many Products, Too Many Choices:

There are so many products to choose from nowadays, it is no wonder that how to use them all correctly is mind boggling for most.  After all, there used to just be cleanser, toner, day cream and night cream.  Then came eye cream, serum, moisturizer with sunscreen, moisturizer without sunscreen, sunscreen by itself, face primer, eye primer, lip primer, facial oil, micellar water, facial essence and the list just keeps growing.  (As I’ve been typing this, ten new things have probably been invented!)

Develop An Order:

To achieve the maximum benefit from your products, develop an order to your routine and it will be easy to follow.  What follows is a simple breakdown on how to properly coordinate your skin care products.  After all, why spend the money and go to the trouble to use them if you are not going to get the optimum benefit from the products, right?

Do You Need All of This Stuff?

Now, I’m not telling you that you need to use all of these products every day.  I don’t.  But, you can take a look at the list and you can see where your products fall in line with other products.

Skin Care Cosmetics Application Tips and Tricks:

  • Always begin with clean skin. Nothing is going to work well unless you are starting with a clean, fresh surface.
  • Exfoliate regularly. The products cannot penetrate through a layer of dead skin cells.  There is no point in putting skin care products on if they can’t be absorbed well.
  • Begin with the products that are the thinnest like water and then progress to the next thickest, and so on. Why?  Because if you start with a thick product, the thin one won’t be able to penetrate through it, won’t do any good, and you are basically wasting it.
  • Give each product a chance to be absorbed before you move on to the next product. (Depending upon the product this may be 20 seconds or two minutes.)
How To Apply Skin Care Cosmetics In The Correct Order And Why It Matters Cleanse First

Always Begin By Thoroughly Cleansing First

Thinner or Thicker?

Can’t figure out which ones feel thinner or thicker?  Here is a simple trick—Apply a dab of each product along your forearm, then turn your arm sideways and see which ones run or drip down first.  Make a note of that and apply them in that order.  If they all feel the same or don’t drip, then apply them according to how quickly and easily absorbed they are.  Rub  them in one at a time and count how long it takes for them to be absorbed.  Begin with the one that is absorbed the fastest and then progress to the next.  (You can also put them on a plate if you don’t want to put them on your arm, but that won’t tell you anything about the absorption rate.)

How To Apply Skin Care Cosmetics In The Correct Order And Why It Matters Begin With The Thinnest Products

Begin With The Thinnest Products And Work Up To The Thickest Products

How To Apply Skin Care Cosmetics In The Correct Order And Why It Matters Cream Thin Or Thick

Does The Cream Feel Thin Or Thick? How Long Does It Take To Be Absorbed?

Your order may be slightly different than what is listed below because your products may differ in viscosity from what I am using.  The order below is a general guideline, only.

Skin Care Products Application Order:

Daytime:

  • Oil Cleanser
  • Foam Cleanser
  • Micellar Water
  • Toner
  • Facial Essence (Like a watered-down moisturizer-good for dry skin)
  • Serum
  • Acne Spot Treatment
  • Eye Cream (If your eye cream is heavy, put it on after moisturizer or facial oil.)
  • Moisturizer
  • Facial Oil
  • Sunscreen
  • Primer
  • Lip Protection
  • Makeup (A future post will discuss the proper order for makeup.)

Nighttime:

  • Eye Makeup Remover
  • Oil Cleanser
  • Foam Cleanser
  • Exfoliation or Facial scrub
  • Treatment Mask
  • Micellar Water
  • Toner
  • Facial Essence
  • Serum
  • Acne Spot Treatment
  • Eye Cream (If your eye cream is heavy, put it on after moisturizer or facial oil.)
  • Moisturizer
  • Facial Oil
  • Night Cream
  • Lip Protection
How To Apply Skin Care Cosmetics In The Correct Order And Why It Matters Give The Products Time

Give The Products Time To Be Absorbed Before Applying The Next One

Still Confused?  We Can Help.

Still confused?  Don’t know how to how to apply skin care cosmetics in the correct order and why it matters?  Message me with what you are using and I can quickly sort through the products to put them in order for you.

Coming… The Best Order for Applying Makeup:

I’m going to write another post that will demonstrate the best order to apply your makeup products.

Sign Up:

Want to be notified when the makeup application order posts?  Let us know in the Comments section below and we’ll send it to you.

Thanks!

Wet N Wild Coverall Primer

3 Comments

Product:  Wet N Wild Coverall Primer.  New to the idea of primer?  Want to dip your toes in the water without much of a financial commitment?  Here is an entry-level formula.

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.25 Stars – Good.

Cost: $4.68 (.84 fl. oz.) ($5.57 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Inexpensive

Sold By:  Walgreen’s; Walmart; Wet N Wild Beauty.

Container:  Plastic squeeze tube, twist-off cap.

Description:  Wet N Wild Coverall Primer helps to properly prepare your skin for foundation.  The company makes some lofty (outrageous) claims for this inexpensive primer.

Formula:  Wet N Wild Coverall Primer is a white liquid and is fairly thin when it comes to primers.  It becomes invisible and clear on the skin very quickly.  It only takes about 10 seconds to be fully absorbed into the skin.  It dries to a soft, almost powdery finish.  It does contain silicones even though water is the first ingredient.

Sensitivity:  Wet N Wild Coverall Primer is fragrance, talc, paraben and dye free and is suitable for those with sensitive skin.  The very light chemical scent dissipates within seconds upon application.  If you are allergic to silicone, stay away from this one.

Company Claims:  (Here we go…)

“Remember when you were a kid, watching fairy tales, wishing you had a magic potion to transform yourself instantly into a glamorous princess? Well, we’re here to make your dreams come true! This miraculous primer can be used all over your face to minimize the appearance of pores, fill in fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone, prevent your foundation from caking, and brighten your complexion for ultra-vibrant color that lasts all day. Magic! How does it do this? Because we basically put diamonds in a bottle! No, really, we did. The key ingredient in this miracle primer is white sapphire, formulated into a smooth, silky cream that glides on effortlessly, leaving behind a crystal complexion. Just think of us as your fairy godmother!”

“Magic Potion!

  • Refines Pores
  • Fills Fine Lines
  • Brightens Complexion
  • Evens Skin Tone
  • Made with white sapphire!
  • Provides a perfect surface for ultra-vibrant color that lasts all day
  • Prevents Caking, Creasing, and Smudging”

(Those may be the most ridiculously exaggerated claims ever made by a cosmetics manufacturer.)

Discussion:   If I had never used a primer before I would probably think this one is better than it is.  If you have no experience with primer and you try this one, you will probably like it.  If, on the other hand, you have used a lot of high-end primers, this one may be a bit of a let down.

Whenever I test a new primer I always do so on freshly-cleansed bare skin and you should do the same.  Otherwise, you will not know exactly how your skin is reacting to the product.  Wear the primer by itself one day before you put makeup on top of it.

For my dry skin, I would definitely need to use a moisturizer underneath this primer, as this was drying to me.  If you have oily skin, this may work well for you on bare skin.

Colors:  Wet N Wild Coverall Primer only comes in one color and they don’t have a name for it.

Morning Review:  I applied Wet N Wild Coverall Primer on clean bare skin all over my face.  I then applied makeup to only one side of my face to test how well it helps with makeup longevity.  It is probably the fastest drying primer I have ever used.  You don’t have to wait to apply makeup on top of this the way you do most primers.

Let’s address the Company Claims:

Magic Potion!  (No, there is no magic in this tube.)

  • Refines Pores (Slightly)
  • Fills Fine Lines (No improvement)
  • Brightens Complexion (No change)
  • Evens Skin Tone (No change)
  • Provides A Perfect Surface… (Slightly)
  • Prevents Caking, Creasing, Smudging  (For a little while)

What it did was make my face feel slightly smoother with a dry powdery finish.  My makeup went on smoothly on top of this primer.

Application Tips:  On myself I applied this with my fingers.  On clients, I usually apply primer with a beauty blender sponge.  This primer is so thin it would be easily absorbed by a sponge so fingers work best for this one.  Since this has a lotion consistency, to avoid squeezing out too much product, simply hold the tube with the nozzle pointing upward, not downward.

Evening Review:  There was not much change throughout the day.  My skin did not become drier or oilier because of the Wet N Wild Coverall Primer.  It made a slight difference in helping makeup to go on smoother and last longer.  The second time I tried the primer I put it on top of moisturizer and it worked much better for me that way.  This is not hydrating at all on its own.  I also tried this with different foundations and it did help them all to last about 25% longer than foundations on their own without primer.

Overall Review:  Wet N Wild Coverall Primer imparts a nice silky feeling to the skin, helps makeup go on easier, and adds a little longevity to the wear of foundation.

Pros:

  • Dries almost instantly
  • Applies easily
  • Improves skin texture
  • Adds a little staying power to foundation
  • Removes easily with regular facial cleanser
  • Fragrance, paraben, talc, dye-free formula
  • Feels light on the skin, not heavy

Cons:

  • Is NOT a “Magic Potion”
  • Does not live up to the claims by the manufacturer
  • Does not fill fine lines or wrinkles
  • Is not hydrating
  • Does not do much to smooth the skin like thicker primers do

Suitability:  Wet N Wild Coverall Primer is suitable for the following users:

  • All users.  (Those with dry skin should apply a moisturizer first.)
  • Best for users with oily skin or those who like very light weight products on their skin

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.25 Stars = Good.

Would Buy Again?  No.  (For a drugstore primer and a few dollars more Revlon is better.)

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Wet N Wild Coverall PrimerWet N Wild Coverall Primer ReverseWet N Wild Coverall Primer Tip

Wet N Wild Coverall Primer Product Swatch

Wet N Wild Coverall Primer Product Swatch

Ingredients:  Water/Eau, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isododecane, Ethylene/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Decyl Glucoside, Polysilicone-11, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Alumina, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation

13 Comments

Product:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation.  This is an okay tinted moisturizer for users with dry skin.  It is not a foundation.

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.75 Stars – Just Okay to Good.

Cost: $1.00 (1 fl. oz.) ($1 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Dirt Cheap

Sold By:  Dollar Tree

Container:  Plastic squeeze tube, twist-off cap, blister package.

Description:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation is marketed as a foundation.  I beg to differ.  This offers nothing in the way of coverage.  I think it should be sold as a tinted moisturizer.

Formula:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation is a light weight, water-based liquid foundation.  The formula provides almost no coverage and dries to a dewy finish.  This is moisturizing and is best for users with dry skin.  The formula is free from mineral oil and parabens.  It contains no SPF so you will need to wear a sunscreen under this for sun protection.

Sensitivity:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation is fragrance free and is suitable for those with sensitive skin.  It did not break me out, make my nose run, eyes burn or otherwise cause any allergic reactions.

Company Claims:

On the product package:  None.  To Use:  Apply and blend with fingertips.

On the website:  Hide spots, freckles, and blemishes with easy to apply liquid foundation. Cover and even out skin tone for a flawless-looking, soft natural finish. Plus, it can be easily tucked away in small purses, cosmetic organizers, and make-up bags.

Discussion:  This is my first experience with a foundation from a dollar store.  While I’m open to trying inexpensive eye shadows or nail polishes, when it comes to foundation, I believe that anything that is going to stay on your skin for several hours should have good skin care properties.  I looked at every foundation for sale at Dollar Tree and selected this one because it had the best ingredients and was fragrance free.  I bought this strictly to have a wide range of products in all price ranges for review purposes.  I expected to tell you how awful this stuff is, use it once, and toss it.  I was pleasantly surprised that was not my reaction.

This is amusing to me.  Yesterday I reviewed a product that was called a tinted moisturizer that turned out to be a drying foundation.  Today I’m reviewing a foundation that turned out to be a tinted moisturizer.  What is going on with these manufacturers?  Their mislabeling of products is really confusing to their consumers.  Don’t these companies get any feedback from makeup professionals before they sell this stuff?  If not, why not?

Colors:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation comes in three colors:  Light (a light neutral ivory), Medium (a warm medium), and Dark (a warm medium dark).  The Tan is no longer available.  Surprisingly, these three colors will work for most people because the formula is so thin.  You could easily mix two colors if you wanted to.  The Light is exactly the same color as my ivory-toned fair skin.  This was a big shock to me.  Usually, when a product only comes in a few colors, the Light is way too dark for me.  The Light appeared to be pinker than my skin in the tube, but once it was applied, it was a perfect match.

Morning Review:  After cleansing, I applied Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation.  On one side of my face I applied it to bare skin.  On the other side I applied it over primer.  Frankly, it did not make much difference.  The side without primer did not look or feel any different than the side with primer.  This foundation has a tacky finish.  It took about five minutes for it to be fully absorbed into my skin.  Once absorbed, it was basically undetectable on my skin.  It offers very little to nothing in the way of coverage.  I tried applying it with my fingers, a brush and a sponge.  It went on the best with a brush.  It did not work at all with the sponge.  The formula is so thin the sponge just kept absorbing it.

Helpful Tips/Tricks:

  • To avoid squeezing out too much product, simply hold the tube with the nozzle pointing upward, not downward.
  • Apply with a foundation brush for a light smooth finish.
  • Pat on, don’t rub, with fingers for heavier coverage.

Evening Review:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation did not stay on well at all.  It pretty much faded away after a few hours.  It washed off easily with just plain water.

Overall Review:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation is NOT a foundation and should not be called such.  It is a tinted moisturizer that should only be used by those with dry skin.

Pros:

  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Very Inexpensive

Cons:

  • Does not offer any actual coverage
  • Hydrating formula is not suited to oily skin
  • Takes several minutes to be absorbed
  • No water resistance

Suitability:  Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation is suitable for the following users:

  • Those with dry skin
  • Those who don’t need coverage
  • Those who like a very light weight feeling product on their skin

This would be a very good makeup to give to a young girl who is just beginning to wear makeup for her to practice with.  I could also use this to teach with for demonstrations or classrooms when I don’t want to waste expensive products.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 2 stars2 Stars;

Value Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.75 Stars = Just Okay to Good.

Would Buy Again?  No.  (Not even for $1.00, how sad.)

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Sassy Chic Moisturizing FoundationSassy Chic Moisturizing FoundationSassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation

Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation Light Swatch

Sassy Chic Moisturizing Foundation Light Swatch

Ingredients:  Water, Ethyl-Hexyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Isostearate, Magnesium Sulfate, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Dimethicone, Methylisothiazolinone.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer

Product:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer.  This is a good product for some users with oily skin, but it is definitely NOT what it claims to be.

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.5 Stars – Just Okay to Good – As it is marketed, otherwise much better.  (See explanation below)

Cost: $14.95 (1.2 fl. oz.) ($9.37 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Mid-range

Sold By:  Physicians Formula; Ulta; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container:  Plastic squeeze tube, twist-off cap, outer carton.

Description:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer is a water-resistant opaque foundation with a Sun Protection Factor of 40.

Formula:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer is a medium-weight cream foundation.  The formula provides medium-coverage opacity and dries to a powdery finish.  This is NOT a tinted moisturizer.  It is also NOT hydrating.  It is just the opposite; it is wonderful for oil absorption.

Sensitivity:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer is fragrance free and is suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Company Claims:

Description

  • Revolutionary do-it-all formula combines the benefits of a tinted moisturizer with skin-nourishing natural & organic ingredients and high-performance natural sunscreens. Ultra-lightweight cream delivers heavy-weight performance that keeps you perfected & protected through even your toughest workout: Hydrates, Nourishes, Protects + Defends, Soothes, Brightens. 100% of the Ingredients are of Natural Origin. 70% of the Ingredients are Organic.
  • Life-Proof Formula: Rigorously tested to withstand your most athletic activities.
    10K Proof. Gym Proof. Sweat Proof*. Water Resistant.*
    *80 minute sweat/water resistant.

100% Natural ProFit Blend™: A special blend of proteins and antioxidants that work to replenish moisture and energize skin:

Kale, Carrot, Lemon & Quinoa Protein Blend:
provides Amino Acids, Vitamin A, C and E to boost hydration, support skin elasticity, help defend against skin damage caused by environmental exposure & help brighten skin tone.

Super Berry Complex:
rich in antioxidants, these super-berries strengthen and help maintain skins instant and long-term hydration.

100% FREE OF

  • Harsh Chemicals
  • Synthetic Preservatives
  • Parabens
  • Gluten
  • GMO’s
  • Synthetic Colors
  • Synthetic Fragrances
  • Cruelty

Hypoallergenic. Gluten Free. Dermatologist Approved.

(Wow, that was a really long Company Claims’ section.)

Discussion:  I am a good person to review foundations.  Why?  Because I don’t like them.  I don’t like the way they look or feel and most of them are too heavy for me.  They are good for actors, models, and performers but I don’t like an opaque “mask-look” face of foundation for everyday wear.  That is why I use tinted moisturizers.  They are light, provide hydration, and the ever-so-slightest tint of color to the face.  I was excited when I saw the new Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer.  Oh boy–fragrance free, skin-loving ingredients, high SPF, this sounds great, right?

Imagine my shock when I opened the tube and out came this dark heavy cream.  I checked the tube; I checked the box… Had I been given the wrong product?  Was the tube switched?  No, Physician’s Formula is simply marketing this product incorrectly.

Rants & Raves:  I am a huge fan of the Physician’s Formula brand.  I don’t know why more beauty editors or magazines don’t talk about this line.  They make good products that perform well and are reasonably priced.  I think so many people are beauty snobs and they simply won’t sing the praises of any products except the insanely expensive ones.  Not everyone can afford Chanel.  The rest of the world needs good products, too, and Physician’s Formula should be appreciated more than it is.  They have been making sensitive-skin products since 1937 and I have been using this line since before most of you were born.

BIG Rant:  The Physician’s Formula line has always been fragrance free.  I never had to pull out a magnifying glass to read their ingredients and search for fragrance, until recently.  They now have vanilla-scented mascaras and some other products that contain fragrance.  The entire “Sexy Booster” line contains huge amounts of sickening fragrance.  Shame on you, Physician’s Formula.  Why would you do such a thing?  You have compromised the integrity of the brand by doing this and you have removed the quality that set you apart from your competition.

Colors:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer comes in two colors:  Light (a warm medium), and Light/Medium (a warm dark medium).  The Light is two shades darker than my neutral ivory-toned fair skin.  The Light is the same color my skin is when I use self tanner in the summer.  For those with a very fair porcelain, cool toned, or very deep skin tone, there isn’t going to be a shade that will work for you unless you mix this with something else.

Morning Review:  First Try:  After cleansing, I applied Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer to bare skin.  After all, this IS supposed to replace my moisturizer and my sunscreen and make my skin look better all in one step.  On my dry skin, this was almost impossible to apply.  It did not go on smoothly, dried quickly and began to look cakey.  Not pretty…

Second Try:  I decided to take it off and try again.  Guess what?  It didn’t rinse off.  I got in the shower and put my face under running water and it was still there!  Okay, well it is definitely water resistant.  I had to use facial cleanser to get it off.  So for try number two I put moisturizer on first.  It applied much better.  So, if you have dry skin like me, you’ll need a moisturizer or a primer first.

Helpful Tips and Tricks:

  • For full coverage, apply it with your fingers.
  • For lighter coverage, apply it with a damp beauty blender sponge.
  • It dries quickly so don’t apply it to your whole face at once; work in small areas at a time.
  • If you have dry skin, use a moisturizer or moisturizing primer first.
  • Do not try to put any type of creams (blushes, contours, highlighters) on top of this, only powders.
  • If you don’t wear a thick layer, you won’t get the true SPF.  A light thin layer won’t provide as much sun protection, so you might need sunscreen underneath for prolonged exposure.

Evening Review:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer stayed on for many hours.  I had to cleanse my face with an exfoliating scrub to completely remove it.  I was happy to get it off because it was simply too drying for my already dry skin.

Overall Review:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer is NOT a tinted moisturizer at all.  It is a foundation with a high SPF.  It doesn’t apply well on bare skin if your skin type is dry.  It stays on extremely well.  The colors are off and are darker and warmer than what the company shows them to be.

If you like this, I would advise you to stock up because I don’t expect it to be around long.  It is being marketed incorrectly and that will probably lead to the demise of this product.  It should be marketed as a wonderful oil-absorbing, long-wearing foundation for those with oily skin.   Had it been branded that way, I’d have given it 4 Stars.  (And, they need to re-formulate the colors and add some cool tones.)

Pros:

  • Thick cream covers well
  • High SPF
  • Water-resistant
  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Skin-friendly ingredients

Cons:

  • Is not light weight as advertised
  • Colors are off and are darker and much warmer than stated
  • Is not hydrating
  • Does not blend well on dry skin

Suitability:  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer is suitable for the following users:

  • Those with oily skin
  • Those who need or like a medium-coverage foundation
  • Those who need a water-resistant foundation for sports or other outdoor activities

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.5 Stars = Just Okay to Good.

Would Buy Again?  For daily wear, No way.  For wearing to the beach in the summer, Maybe.  (It completely covered my freckles.)

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer Box

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer Light Swatch

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer Color Light

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer Light Swatch

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer Light Swatch

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Work It Marathonista Tinted Moisturizer Color Light

Ingredients:  Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide

Inactive Ingredients:  Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Water*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil*, Dodecane, Glycerin+, Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate, Lecithin*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water*, Polyglyceryl-2 Oleate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polylactic Acid, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Hydrolyzed Kale Protein, Kunzea Pomifera (Muntries) Fruit Extract, Syzygium Leuhmanii (Riberry) Fruit Extract, Tasmannia Lanceolata (Pepperberry) Fruit Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract*, Alcohol Denat., Alumina, Beeswax*, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax*, Hydrolyzed Carrot Protein, Hydrolyzed Lemon Protein, Jojoba Esters, Lauroyl Lysine, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Magnesium Sulfate, Mica, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Silica, Water, Xanthan Gum.

May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides. *Ingredients from Organic Farming, + Made using Organic Ingredients, 70% Organic.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green

Product:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green.  All light to medium skinned makeup wearers NEED this product.  This color-correcting concealer completely eliminates redness from Rosacea, blemishes, or injuries.  It is also a must following plastic surgery to hide red scars.

Overall Rating  = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent.

Cost: $6.55 (.15 oz.) ($43.67 per ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By:  Physicians Formula; Walgreen’s; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container:  Plastic twist-up tube, pull-off cap, blister package.

Description:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green is a heavy-duty waterproof cream concealer that neutralizes red areas/spots on the skin.

Formula:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green is thick and comes in a twist-up lipstick-type tube.  The formula provides full-coverage opacity.

Sensitivity:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green is fragrance free, hypoallergenic and is suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Company Claims:

  • Non-drying concealing stick.
  • Provides smooth, easy application.
  • Yellow hides blemishes, under-eye circles and other minor skin imperfections.
  • Green hides red blemishes and scars.
  • Flesh tone shades cover any minor skin imperfections.
  • Fragrance-free. Non-comedogenic.
  • Recommended by dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

Discussion:  If I could only have a few products in my professional kit, this would be one of them.  I cannot do my job effectively on light or medium-skinned clients without a green color-correcting concealer.  Almost everyone has a slight redness around their nose or a few red-toned blemishes.  Green is the complementary opposite on the color spectrum from red and therefore neutralizes any red pigmentation.  If you look at the color wheel you can see which colors are opposite and will, therefore, cancel each other out.  If you have blue veins showing, apply orange to cancel them; a purple port-wine stain would require yellow, etc.

Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green Opposite of Red

People in magazines and the internet act like using green concealer is a new concept.  I have been using green concealer since the 1980’s when there were only two, Joe Blasco’s TVC-15 and Shiseido’s Green Veil.  Green concealer was invented by Max Factor back in the 1940’s when movies started being made in color as opposed to black and white.

Raves:  I have tried many other green concealers, but I keep going back to this one.  Some of the others are: Clinique (thinner, less coverage); e.l.f. (lighter, less coverage); Kryolan Erase Stick Neutralizer (very similar); Makeup For Ever Camouflage Cream Pot Green (very similar); Maybelline (lighter, oilier); NYX (lighter, bluer, less coverage, difficult to blend); Smashbox (thinner, much less coverage); and Wet N Wild (lighter, less coverage).

Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green works just like the professional product, Kryolan Erase Stick, only it does so without the stinky fragrance which is a huge bonus.

I cannot tell you how many times I have pulled this concealer stick out to use on clients and they panic thinking that I’m about to make them look like Frankenstein or a zombie.  That is, until they see the finished product, and their complexion is smooth, even, and all discolorations have been completely eliminated.  Sometimes the results are quite shocking.  Clients that suffer from terrible acne, red birthmarks or Rosacea never thought their skin could be one color all over until I show them how to use Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green.

Rants:  Today I have to get on my soap box.  I have seen a lot of negative reviews for this product from other blog sites.  When I read the reviews it is very obvious to me that the authors are not qualified to write a review about a product when they have no idea how to even use it.  This is not a fancy product.  It was designed to do one thing, neutralize redness, and it does so brilliantly.  It is not intended to be slathered on the face or sponged on like a primer.  In fact, I use so little of it that a tube lasts me for a very long time, even if I’m using it on clients on a regular basis.

It makes me very angry when an amateur wanna-be so-called makeup artist puts down a great product.  Why?  Because then people stop buying it, the product gets discontinued, and professionals like me that are trying to make you look good are at a disadvantage because we can no longer buy the products we need!

Colors:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick comes in three colors:  Light (fair-skinned flesh tone), Yellow (a true light yellow) and Green (a true light green).  The Green has been a staple in my professional makeup kit for over 20 years.  The yellow is for counteracting undereye purple shadows or bruises.

Morning Review:  After cleansing, toning and moisturizing and/or priming, apply Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green on any red areas prior to the application of foundation.  I apply this with a small detail brush about the size of a lipstick brush.  I then carefully apply foundation on top of the concealer and set the areas with a finely micronized high definition powder.  Once it is set, the concealer won’t come off.

Helpful Tips and Tricks:

  • Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green will not work well if you apply it with a sponge or your fingers.
  • Use a small concealer, detail, or lipstick brush for precise application.
  • The product needs to be concentrated on the specific area of redness and nowhere else.
  • Be careful when applying foundation on top so as not to remove the concealer.
  • If you accidentally rub it off when applying foundation, just dot some more green concealer on top of the foundation and carefully blend it with the detail brush.
  • To keep it in place for hours, set it with a good quality powder.

Evening Review:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green wears very well and stays on for many hours without the need for touch ups.  Even though this is waterproof, it will come off easily with regular facial cleanser.

Overall Review:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green is the best friend to professional makeup artists everywhere.  I swear by this stuff and so do others who know how to properly utilize it.

Pros:

  • True green color effectively neutralizes redness
  • Thick cream covers well
  • One tube lasts a long time
  • Takes very little product to cover imperfections
  • Waterproof
  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Skin-friendly ingredients

Cons:

  • None

Suitability:  Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green is suitable for the following users:

  • All users.  (This is a very good product for men to use as well as women.  I use this on male models, actors and performers.)

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars = Excellent.

Would Buy Again?  Yes.  I hope they never stop making this!

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick GreenPhysicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick GreenPhysicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green Swatch

Before Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green

Before Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green

After Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green

After Physicians Formula Gentle Cover Concealer Stick Green

Ingredients:  TRIDECYL STEARATE,NEOPENTYL GLYCOL DICAPRYLATE/DICAPRATE,TRIDECYL TRIMELLITATE, CARTHAMUS TINCTORIUS (SAFFLOWER) SEED OIL,OZOKERITE,DIETHYLHEXL ADIPATE, ETHYLHEXYL STEARATE, ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE, ISOPROPYL LANOLATE,BEESWAX,KAOLIN,ASCORBYL PALMITATE,BHT,CETEARYL ETHYLHEXANOATE,CITRIC ACID,GLYCERYL OLEATE,PROPYLENE GLYCOL,TBHQ, VEGETABLE OIL, PROPYLPARABEN. MAY CONTAIN:TITANIUM DIOXIDE,CHROMIUM OXIDE GREENS,IRON OXIDES,TALC, ULTRAMARINES.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

Product:  IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer.  Have imperfections you need to cover?  Dark circles disappear with this heavy-duty full-coverage concealer.

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.75 Stars – Very Good to Excellent.

Cost: $24.00 (.28 oz.) ($85.71 per ounce)  Price Category: Mid-range

Sold By:  IT Cosmetics; QVC; Ulta.

Container:  Plastic squeeze tube, twist-off cap, outer carton.

Description:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is an opaque, heavy waterproof concealer.  IT Cosmetics, of TV infomercial fame, is now part of the L’Oreal family.  L’Oreal acquired IT Cosmetics last year for 1.2 billion dollars.  (I guess they intend to sell a lot of concealer.)

Formula:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is a thick work-horse type of concealer.  If you like light and airy products, this is not the concealer for you.  If you need to conceal scars, blemishes, dark circles or tattoos, this dense cream might just do the trick.  The formula feels a little tacky so you will want to set this with powder if you are not applying foundation over it.  This does not contain light-diffusing agents.  If you prefer that look, IT also makes this concealer with a pearlescent quality from the addition of Mica, called  Bye Bye Undereye Illumination Anti-Aging Concealer.  I like the Illumination one for fair-skinned brides.

Sensitivity:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is fragrance free and is suitable for those with sensitive eyes, skin, or those who wear contacts.

Company Claims:

 “IT’s your 8 hours of sleep in a tube!™ Full Coverage Anti-Aging Waterproof Concealer”
“Why You’ll Love IT™…Developed with plastic surgeons, this best-selling, award-winning, cult-favorite waterproof concealer delivers highly pigmented, long-lasting coverage that won’t crease or crack. Infused with high-performance pigments and anti-aging peptides, vitamins, hydrolyzed collagen, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, the game-changing formula improves the appearance of wrinkles and effectively conceals the look of skin imperfections including dark circles, bags, redness, hyperpigmentation, broken capillaries, age spots and discoloration. Finally, a multitasking, full-coverage concealer that makes your skin look younger!”

Discussion:  As a makeup artist there is probably no more important item in my kit than concealer.  My clients expect me to make them look better and everyone (except that one Swedish girl) has some sort of issues to conceal.  I have put makeup on thousands of faces and I’ve only seen one that had flawless skin.  I have tried hundreds of concealers, and while I don’t use this one every day, Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is the one I reach for when I need some serious coverage.

Colors:  Bye Bye Undereye Concealer comes in four colors:  Light, Medium, Tan and Deep.  The Deep is probably not dark enough for truly dark-skinned African Americans.  I use the Light on very fair-skinned clients or for brightening.  If necessary, you can mix two colors.  I included some color swatches and a color shade chart below.

Morning Review:  After cleansing, toning and moisturizing and/or priming, apply Bye Bye Undereye Concealer prior to the application of foundation.  A little goes a long way so start with a small drop of product.  If you need more, apply another layer.  It is better to build this up in thin layers than to start with one thick layer.  I apply this with a small concealer brush.  IT Cosmetics make a nice dual-ended brush that works well.  For a beauty bargain, ELF also makes a good inexpensive concealer brush.  A light dusting of a high definition micronized powder will keep this in place until you take it off.

Evening Review:  After many hours, Bye Bye Undereye Concealer does not budge.  It stays on without fading, creasing, or flaking.  As this product is waterproof, you will need a makeup remover to get it off completely.

Overall Review:  IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer works very well and covers most imperfections.  It is highly pigmented and very buildable for additional coverage.

Pros:

  • Thick cream covers well
  • Squeeze tube keeps product sanitary
  • Takes very little product to cover imperfections
  • Waterproof
  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Skin-friendly ingredients

Cons:

  • Slightly tacky finish must be set with powder
  • Some users may have difficulty finding the right shade.
  • This will not reduce the look of undereye bags as the manufacturer claims.
  • I have not seen any evidence that use of this will make you look younger over time. (Darn!)

Suitability:  IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer is suitable for the following users:

  • All users.  (This is a very good product for men to use as well as women.  I use this on male models, actors and performers.)
  • I have also used this on severely wrinkled and aged skin with good results.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.75 Stars = Very Good to Excellent.

Would Buy Again?  Yes.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye ConcealerIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer BoxIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer TipIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer Color SwatchesIT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer Color Chart

Before IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

Before IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

After IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

After IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Concealer

Ingredients:  Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Cetyl Alcohol, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Ozokerite, Phenoxyethanol, Aqua/Water/Eau, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Cholesteryl Nonanoate, Cholesteryl Oleyl Carbonate, Cholesteryl Chloride, Chrysin, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Collagen, N-Hydroxysuccinimide, Niacinamide, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Retinyl Palmitate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Steareth-20. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77492, CI 77491, CI 77499).

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.

DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer

Product:  DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer.  You can’t have a beautiful face of makeup if you don’t properly prepare the skin first.  Primer is your best friend when it comes to preparation.

Overall Rating  = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent.

Cost Best: $22.50 (.52 oz.) ($43.27 per ounce)  Price Category: Mid-range

Sold By:  DHC Care; Amazon.

Container:  Plastic squeeze tube, twist-off cap, outer carton.

Description:  DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer is a clear silicone-based product that improves the texture of your skin and blurs imperfections.  DHC (Daigaku Honyaku Center) is a company founded in 1972 in Japan that began with three olive-oil based products.  They are a direct sales and online catalog sales company and have been in the US since 1995.

Formula:  DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer is a translucent colorless gel and is fairly thick.  It is slightly tacky feeling when first applied but then dries to more of a matte powdery finish that feels soft on the skin.

Sensitivity:  DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer is fragrance and dye free and is suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Company Claims:

“DHC Velvet Skin Coat makeup primer instantly softens and improves the look of your skin. It minimizes the look of fine lines, pores and imperfections while reducing oiliness to help makeup glide on and last longer—with no “drying” time needed. Plus, it leaves skin feeling silky smooth. Look fresh and flawless, whether you’re wearing makeup or not.

  • Unique transparent, powdery gel texture
  • Apply before foundation or wear alone for a flawless, natural look
  • Can also be used on hands and neck
  • Used by professional makeup artists worldwide”

Discussion:  Back when primers were first invented I primarily used them on clients with oily skin to try and keep their makeup from melting off so quickly.  I then discovered their benefit for aging skin, enlarged pores and wrinkles.  I used to have a dozen different primers because I never could find one that worked with different skin types, until I found this one.  Somehow this primer works for everyone whether they have sensitive, dry, consistent, oily or combination skin.

Colors:  DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer only comes in one color, Clear.  It works will all skin tones and does not leave a white haze like some primers.  (For example, for fair-skinned clients I love Hourglass primer, but Hourglass does not work on dark-skinned clients.)

Morning Review:  After cleansing, toning and moisturizing, apply DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer prior to the application of foundation.  (If you are going to use a separate SPF, apply that prior to the primer and then proceed with foundation.  Yes, I know that others disagree, but they are wrong.  Why?  Because silicone –based primers form a film on your skin that will keep your SPF from being absorbed into your skin thereby reducing its effectiveness.)

On myself I would apply this with my fingers.  On clients, I like to smooth this on with a beauty blender.  Give it about 30 seconds to set and then apply the rest of your makeup as usual.  You should be able to use less foundation with this primer.

Evening Review:  After many hours, DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer helps to keep makeup from settling into fine lines, wrinkles, or fading away.  Makeup will last longer and touch ups will be required less frequently.

Overall Review:  DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer imparts a nice silky feeling to the skin, helps makeup go on easier, and adds longevity to the wear of foundation.

Pros:

  • Applies quickly and easily
  • Improves skin texture
  • Adds staying power to foundation
  • Removes easily with regular facial cleanser
  • Fragrance-free formula

Cons:

  • Can only be purchased online

Suitability:  DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer is suitable for the following users:

  • All users.  (This is a very good product for men to use as well as women.  I use this on male models, actors and performers.)

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 5 stars5 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars = Excellent.

Would Buy Again?  Yes.

(Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup PrimerDHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup PrimerDHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer Swatch

Skin Before After DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer

Skin Before After DHC Velvet Skin Coat Skin Perfecting Makeup Primer

Ingredients:  Cyclopentasiloxane, dimethicone, vinyl dimethicone/methicone silsesquioxane crosspolymer, dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer, HDI/trimethylol hexyllactone crosspolymer, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, silica.

Important:  Please read our full Disclaimer before using this or any product.