Category: Anti-Aging

AHA, Anti-aging, Anti-wrinkle Products, Botox, Chemical Peels, Fountain of Youth Products, Lasers, Line Smoothers, Plastic Surgery, Retin-A, Wrinkle Fillers, Wrinkle Removers

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner

Product:  Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner (formerly Alpha Hydrox Toner Astringent).  Will this glycolic acid infused toner help your pores to disappear?

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good

Cost: $8.52 for 6 oz. ($1.42 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By: NeotericCosmetics; Wal-mart

Container: Plastic bottle with nice flip cap, outer carton.

Discussion:  Before I get into the product review, this product is a toner, which contains SD alcohol.  There is so much controversy surrounding this ingredient in cosmetics.  I have researched this ingredient extensively.  SD alcohol is Specially Denatured Ethanol.  Ethanol is, quite simply, the alcohol that you drink.  SD alcohol has denatonium benzoate added to it to make it bitter so that no one will be tempted to drink the cosmetic products.  Alcohol can be drying to people with very dry skin and it can be irritating to someone with hypersensitive skin.  On the flip side, SD alcohol can actually aid in the absorption of other ingredients to the skin and just because it is in a product, is not a bad thing.  The alcohol can act as an effective delivery agent.  I say try it and listen to your body.  If your skin doesn’t like something, it will probably tell you.  (Just don’t try a new product before a big event.)

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner is an astringent intended to be used once or twice a day, after cleansing, and prior to the application of any other products.  Always apply your products following cleansing in the order from the most watery consistency to the thickest consistency.  If you have never used an alpha hydroxy acid product before, you may want to start with every other day and eventually build up to twice a day.  Alpha hydroxy acids can cause irritation to sensitive or delicate skin.  Also, this product contains a small amount of menthol.  If you are sensitive to menthol, this is not the best product for you.

Description:  Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner was formerly known as Alpha Hydrox Toner Astringent.  Nothing has changed except the bottle and the name.  This product is intended for consistent, oily, or consistent/oily combination skin.  As you will see if you continue reading, I use this product on my dry sensitive skin, but I use it a different way.  This is not intended for use around the eye area.  Please don’t get this in or near your eyes as it will burn terribly.

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner contains alpha hydroxy acid in the form of a glycolic acid derived from fruit.  This is a fragrance-free product.  This is also PH balanced.  Alpha hydroxy acids aid the skin with exfoliation and cell turnover.  This is a chemical exfoliant, as opposed to a physical exfoliant such as a scrub or microdermabrasion.  This toner is intended to be used following cleansing and leave it on.  Due to my skin being dry, I rinse it off.

Company Claims:

“Gently removes excess oil, remaining make-up and residue leaving skin feeling fresh, clean and clear.
– Refines and tightens pores
– Balances natural oils
– Improves texture”.

Morning Review:  Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner is a thin blue liquid as thin as water.  To me it has a strong alcohol scent.  My male tester described the scent as a combination of alcohol and plastic.  The scent is due to the ingredients, is not offensive, and dissipates quickly.  The toner feels refreshing and cooling to the skin.  The alcohol in it does make my eyes water for a few seconds until it evaporates.

I have very dry skin.  Even though this product is intended for consistent to oily skin, I use this.  I really like how well it cleans and I find that it is not too drying to my skin provided I rinse it off.  Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner leaves my face feeling very clean.  It does not make my skin feel itchy or irritated.  As this toner contains beneficial glycolic acid, please do not rinse it off unless you need to.  Because my pores are so small after using this, makeup goes on beautifully.

I do have a complaint about this product and that is the fact that it is blue.  I wish manufacturers would completely stop the practice of adding artificial color to skin care products.  I’m taking off one star due to the blue dye.

Please Note:  If you have Rosacea, please check with your dermatologist before using this or any AHA product.

Please Also Note:  Alpha hydroxy acids can make your skin more susceptible to burning when you are exposed to the sun.  Please wear a sunscreen with a high SPF on top of this product to avoid burning.

Evening Review:  Provided I rinse this off, my skin does not get dry or tight and stays hydrated and smooth all day.  If I don’t rinse it off, this toner is a little too drying for my skin.  Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner effectively removes all traces of makeup after cleansing and I do not need to use any wipes if I use this toner.  Once again, please don’t use this near your eyes.  You will need a separate eye makeup remover.

Overall Review:  Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner is an excellent toner in terms of removing all traces of makeup and closing the pores.  I don’t get the added benefit of the glycolic acid because I have to rinse it off.  I have to take a point off though because I also don’t want artificial dyes or colorants on my skin if they don’t need to be there.  I also prefer alcohol-free toners for my dry skin, but sadly, the alcohol-free products don’t clean nearly as well.  Also, it is controversial for a toner to contain menthol when so many people are sensitive it.  Even with my hypersensitive skin I am not sensitive to menthol and I find the cooling effect to be refreshing.  Only you can determine if this will work for you.

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner is suitable for women and men with all skin types provided it does not have a drying effect on your skin and you aren’t sensitive to menthol.  My male tester who has dry skin said this toner did not make his skin feel dry at all like most toners do.  He thought his face felt very clean, soft, and hydrated after using this toner.

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Oily;
  • Dry (only if you rinse it off);
  • Sensitive (not if sensitive to menthol);
  • Consistent.

Please see the Help page to determine your skin type.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars4 Stars for Effectiveness – 1 Star for Blue Dye = 3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars (also due to blue dye);

Value Rating  = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars, Very Good.

Would Buy Again?  Yes (I have been using this for many years.)

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

Alpha Hydrox Toner Astringent Former Product

Alpha Hydrox Toner Astringent Former Product

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner Current Product Front

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner Current Product Front

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner Current Product Back

Alpha Skin Care Clarifying Toner Current Product Back

Ingredients: Water, SD Alcohol 40, Witch Hazel Distillate, Propylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Chamomile Extract, Panthenol, Menthol, Ammonium Hydroxide, Imidazolidinyl Urea, FD&C Blue #1.

Formulated Without:  Artificial Fragrance, Parabens.

Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10%

2 Comments

Product:  Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10%.  Will this powerful Alpha Hydroxy Acid lotion leave your skin radiant and youthful?  Perhaps, perhaps…

Overall Rating  = 4.75 Stars – Excellent to Blew Me Away (Rating Revised)

Cost: $16.99 for 4 oz. ($4.25 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By:  NeotericCosmetics (Parent Company); Wal-mart; Ulta

Container:  Plastic bottle with flip cap, outer carton.

Description:  Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10% was formerly known as Alpha Hydrox 10% AHA Enhanced Lotion.  The parent company, Neoteric Cosmetics, changed the name of this line from Alpha Hydrox to Alpha Skin Care a couple of years ago.

Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10% contains 10% alpha hydroxy acid in the form of a glycolic acid derived from fruit.  This is a fragrance-free product.  Alpha hydroxy acids aid the skin with exfoliation and cell turnover.  This is a chemical exfoliant, as opposed to a physical exfoliant such as a scrub or microdermabrasion.  This is a lotion that you put on your skin and leave on.

Company Claims:

“Real Results for Lines and Wrinkles” and

“Formulated with 10% Glycolic Alpha Hydrox Acid (AHA) to gently release dead skin cells revealing fresh, healthy, younger-looking skin.
– For Normal to Dry Skin
– Free of Parabens & Fragrances
– 10% Glycolic AHA/pH 4.0
– Reduces the appearance of lines & wrinkles
– Helps to support collagen production
– Evens skin tone & texture
– Leaves skin feeling soft & smooth”

Discussion:  Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10% is a moisturizing exfoliant intended to be used once or twice a day, after cleansing, toning and the application of any other lighter products such as serums.  Always apply your products following cleansing in the order from the most watery consistency to the thickest consistency.  If you have never used an alpha hydroxy acid product before, you may want to start with every other day, and eventually build up to twice a day.  Alpha hydroxy acids can cause irritation to sensitive or delicate skin.

Alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin by working low in the stratum corneum, loosening the bonds that hold dead cells on the skin.  This stimulates new cell growth, allowing fresh cells to surface without breaking down the small capillaries in the skin.

It is normal to experience a slight burning or tingling when applying this product at first.  If the burning does not subside within a few minutes, this is probably too strong for you and you will need to dilute it or discontinue use.

Morning Review:  Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10% is a light weight light yellow lotion.  It has a very slight chemical scent from the ingredients, not fragrance.  The scent is not offensive.  The lotion feels silky and absorbs quickly into the skin.  This makes my hypersensitive skin burn and become irritated quite a bit when I use it full strength.  The company recommended that I mix it with a moisturizer and only use it at half strength until my skin got used to it for a few days and that is how I had to use it.  My testers with normal skin and dry skin used it full strength and they did not have any adverse reactions.  They said the burning and tingling went away within a couple of minutes.  Once fully absorbed, makeup goes on very well on top of this lotion.

Please Note:  If you have Rosacea, please check with your dermatologist before using this or any AHA product.  If you have never used a product with alpha hydroxy acids before, it would be advisable to perform a patch test before using this product.  A patch test means that you apply a small amount of product to your inner arm near your elbow and wait 24 hours to see if you have a negative reaction.

Please Also Note:  Alpha hydroxy acids can make your skin more susceptible to burning when you are exposed to the sun.  Please wear a sunscreen with a high SPF on top of this product to avoid burning.

Evening Review:  After several hours my skin felt nice and smooth.  Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10% really kept my skin hydrated and I did not experience the dryness and tightness that I usually have.  With extended use, the tone and texture of my skin has continued to get smoother and softer.

Overall Review:  Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10% is an excellent product and it is less expensive than most AHA products.  The benefits of AHA will be seen with long-term use.  It may take a couple to several weeks to see an improvement in the tone and texture of your skin.

Edit:  After using this product for 30 days I came back and edited my rating from 4 Stars to 5 Stars.  The difference in my skin was noticeable to me and to everyone else.   I am blessed with good genes and most people guess my age to be 10-15 years less than I actually am.  With continued use of Alpha Skin Care’s Essential Renewal AHA Lotion, I intend to keep it that way!

Alpha Skin Care also makes this product with a 12% concentration of AHA that you can build up to over time, and they make a gel formula that would be more appropriate for oily skin.  (I haven’t bumped up to the 12% yet, but I’ll write another review once I do.)

Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10% is suitable for the following skin types: (Not for oily or hypersensitive)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive; (May have to build up to it by mixing it with moisturizer.)
  • Consistent.

Please see the Help page to determine your skin type.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Evening Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 5 stars5 Stars;

Value Rating  = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating  = 4.75 Stars – Excellent to Blew Me Away.

Editor’s Note:  I originally gave this product 4 Stars.  After using it for over 30 days, I am revising my review to 5 Stars and my Other Testers did the same.

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

Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10%

Alpha Skin Care Essential Renewal Lotion 10%

Alpha Hydrox 10% AHA Enhanced Lotion

Former Product Alpha Hydrox 10% AHA Enhanced Lotion

Ingredients:  Water, Glycolic Acid, Ammonium Hydroxide, Glyceryl Stearate PEG-100 Stearate, Propylene Glycol, PEG-40 Stearate, Sorbitan Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Petrolatum, Dimethicone, Myristyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Cellulose Gum, Sorbic Acid, BHT, Imidazolidinyl Urea.

Formulated Without:  Artificial Fragrance, Parabens, Artificial Colors.

Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic) Vitamin C Skin Conditioner

Product:  Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic) Vitamin C Skin Conditioner.  Will this serum make you look younger and more radiant?

Overall Rating =  3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good

Cost: $28.50 for 1 oz. ($28.50 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Mid-range

Sold By:  Serious Skin Care; HSN

Container:  Classic Formula – Glass bottle with plastic pump; pump does twist off.  New Formula – Plastic bottle with plastic pump; pump does twist off.

Description:  Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic) Vitamin C Skin Conditioner is a fragrance-free serum intended to address fine lines and wrinkles.  This serum is intended to be used immediately following cleansing, night and day, prior to the application of any other product.

This review is for the Classic formula of this serum.  The Classic formula is being replaced with “C Serum Vitamin C Ester Skin Conditioner”.  I like the Classic formula.  I have not tried the new formula because the new formula contains fragrance.  If you click on the links above next to “Sold By”, you will note that the Serious Skin Care link is for the Classic formula and the HSN link is for the new formula.  HSN no longer sells the Classic formula and I think Serious Skin Care (SSC) is discontinuing the Classic formula, so if you want to try this one, I don’t know how long it will be offered for sale.  If you don’t mind fragrance, perhaps you will like the new formula.  I won’t be trying it, but I’d be interested in hearing your feedback with either formula.

The company claims:  “Got mature skin? If you are over 40 and already see those fine lines and wrinkles, you may want to give Serious Skincare’s C-Serum Vitamin C Ester Skin Conditioner a try. This dynamic product is designed to help you recapture the look of your youth. Four Vitamin C Esters, an assortment of Vitamin C-containing botanicals, and the additional Rovisome C delivery system combine to help condition, smooth out and soften the visual appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on your skin.”

Morning Review:  This Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic) is yellow and has a light citrus scent from the botanical ingredients.  The scent does not bother me or make my nose run.  The consistency is heavier than most serums.  This one does not feel like water; it feels more like glycerin or a thick liquid.  This serum does not have the typical silicone derivatives, so it also does not have that slippery primer feel.  It glides on smoothly onto my skin and is absorbed quickly.  This serum feels very gentle and I don’t experience any irritation.  My skin doesn’t actually feel any different after I apply this, which I kind of like.  I don’t care for the feeling of heavy products on my skin.  My makeup goes on nicely on top of this serum without any sticky feeling.  As this product does not contain any sunscreen, please apply sunscreen before your makeup or use a makeup with a high SPF.

Morning Rating =  4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  After several hours my skin does not feel dry, tight, or itchy.  SSC C Serum (Classic) helps my makeup to wear well, my face stays soft and smooth, and I do not experience any sensitivity or irritation issues.  This serum helps to keep my skin feeling soft and hydrated.  I have not seen any evidence of elimination or improvement of fine lines or wrinkles.  But then, I haven’t found that to be true with any other product, either.  I’m still waiting to discover the product that turns back time.  When I do, I’ll be sure to share it!

Overall Review: Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic) Vitamin C Skin Conditioner is an excellent serum for all skin types, especially those with fragrance allergies and/or other sensitivities. This is suitable for both women and men.  My male tester did not mind the fragrance and said he would use it.  He said it made his skin feel softer.  This is a good serum for oily skin and anyone who does not like the feeling of silicone on their skin.

I messaged the company about this product.  I hope Serious Skin Care does not discontinue this formula and I have not heard back from the company as to whether or not this product is being eliminated from their line.  I suspect it is because it has disappeared from the HSN line up and it is now appearing on the “Farewell Favorites” page on the SSC site.

Please note:  This serum contains ingredients that are air sensitive.  Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use.

Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic) Vitamin C Skin Conditioner is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic) Vitamin C Skin Conditioner

Serious Skin Care C Serum (Classic)

Serious Skin Care C Serum Vitamin C Ester Skin Conditioner

Serious Skin Care C Serum (New)

Ingredients (Classic): Water, Butylene Glycol, Grapefruit (Citrus Grandis) Fruit Extract, Kiwi (Actinidia Chinensis) Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract, Lime (Citrus Aurantifolia) Fruit Extract, Mandarin Orange (Citrus Nobilis) Fruit Extract, Mango (Mangifera Indica) Fruit Extract, Orange (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis) Fruit Extract, Passion Fruit (Passiflora Incarnata) Fruit Extract, Pineapple (Ananas Sativus) Fruit Extract, Rosehips (Rosa Canina) Fruit Extract, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Potassium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tetrahexaldecyl Ascorbate, Lecithin, Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Silica, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, PPG-14 Palmeth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carbomer, Tetrasodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Triethanolamine, Diazolidinyl Urea, Yellow 5, Yellow 6.

Ingredients (New Formula): Water, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Glycerin, Lecithin, Citrus Grandis Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Actinidia Chinensis Kiwi) Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract, Citrus Noblis (Mandarin Orange) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Passiflora Incarnata Fruit Extract, Anogeissus Leiocarpus Extract, Copper Tripeptide-1, Colloidal Platinum, Silica, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Potassium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Hyaluronic Acid, Malpighia Glabra (Acerola) Fruit Extract, Zinc Aspartate, Sodium Citrate, Xanthan Gum, Maltodextrin, Alcohol, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Butylene Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Triethanolamine, PPG-14 Palmeth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate, Sodium Citrate, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, DMDM Hydantoin, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Fragrance.

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

 

Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Smooths, Restores, Corrects

Product:  Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Smooths, Restores, Corrects.  Does this serum really produce dramatic results?

Overall Rating = 3+ stars 3.5 Stars – Very Good

Cost: $49.50 for 1 oz. ($49.50 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Clinique; Dillard’s; Macys; Sephora; Major Department Stores

Container:  Glass bottle with glass or plastic dropper

Description:  Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus serum is a fragrance-free serum intended to address fine lines and wrinkles.  This serum is designed to be used immediately following cleansing, night and day, prior to the application of any other product.

I have been familiar with this brand for decades.  Once upon a time, they were the only company with an entire fragrance-free line that was readily available at retail.

The company claims: “Delivers 63% of the visible wrinkle improvement of a dermatological laser procedure at 12 weeks. Not a laser, of course. But impressive results. New ingredients deliver twice the smoothing as before, remarkably refining skin’s texture.”  These are some pretty lofty claims, right?  I don’t necessarily agree with these statements, but I always take marketing claims with a grain of salt.

Please note, nothing that comes out of a bottle or jar is going to give you results that can in any way compare to the dramatic changes your skin will see if you undergo laser treatments from a physician.  Lasers can penetrate the epidermis down into deeper layers and will stimulate collagen production greater than any serum.  Lasers can tighten and tone skin.  Lasers can eliminate skin issues that no topical product can achieve.

 As we age, our skin gets thinner, collagen production slows, and skin regeneration and sloughing decreases.  Thinner skin also becomes less flexible which leads to the formation of lines and wrinkles.  Light skinned individuals typically first show aging as lines around their eyes and dark skinned individuals typically experience discoloration as they age followed by lines and wrinkles.  Because serums are so light and thin, they are readily absorbed into the skin to deliver anti-aging antioxidants and other beneficial ingredients.

Morning Review:  This Clinique fragrance-free serum is clear and has almost no scent other than those from the botanical ingredients.  The consistency is light and the texture is silky.  Due to the high concentration of silicone derivatives, it glides on smoothly onto my skin.  This serum feels very gentle and I don’t experience any irritation.  Due to the lightness, it is quickly absorbed.  Although not specifically designed for it, this serum can be applied to your décolletage.  My makeup goes on top of this product beautifully without any stickiness or tackiness.  As this product does not contain any sunscreen, please apply sunscreen before your makeup or use a makeup with a high SPF.

Morning Rating =  4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin does not feel tight.  This serum helps my makeup to wear well, my face stays soft and smooth, and I do not experience any sensitivity or irritation issues.  This serum helps to improve the tone and texture of my skin.  I have not seen any evidence of elimination or improvement of fine lines or wrinkles.

Overall Review:  Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus serum is an excellent serum for all skin types, especially those with fragrance allergies and/or other sensitivities. This is suitable for both women and men.

Please note:  This serum contains ingredients that are air and light sensitive.  Do not store this near a sunny window sill and keep the container tightly sealed when not in use.  This product comes in larger sizes, but the ingredients begin to lose effectiveness once exposed to air and light.  Unless you are going to use the contents within 90 days, it doesn’t make a great deal of sense to buy the large bottle just because it costs less.  If you still have a lot of product left after 90 days you’ll essentially just have a nice light weight primer without any anti-aging benefits.  If you like to use a lot of serum twice a day and also apply it to your décolletage, then the larger bottle may be a good choice for you.

This serum is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Smooths, Restores, Corrects Serum

Ingredients: Water, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Methyl Trimethicone, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Polysorbate 20, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Glycerin, Silica, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Methyl Gluceth-20, Polysilicone-11, Sigesbeckia Orientalis (St. Paul’s Wort) Extract, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract, Acetyl Glucosamine, Plankton Extract, Whey Protein, Sea Whip Extract, Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract, Caffeine, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile), Sodium Hyaluronate, Micrococcus Lysate, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Ergothioneine, Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cholesterol, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Sodium Hydroxide, Lecithin, Carbomer, PEG-8, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol.

Formulated Without:  Artificial fragrance, Dyes, Parabens.

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

Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Advanced Vitamin C Skin Resurfacer

2 Comments

Product:  Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Advanced Vitamin C Skin Resurfacer.  This used to be known as Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Peel.  (Photos of both products are shown below.)  This is a two-step fragrance-free exfoliating product.

Overall Rating: = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good.

Cost: $48.50 for 4 oz. total (2 products, 2 oz. each) ($12.13 per ounce) Price Category: Mid-range

Sold By:  Serious Skin Care; HSN; Kohl’s (limited products)

Container:  Two tubes with screw-off caps

Description:  I first became familiar with this line of products while channel surfing in the middle of the night.  Jennifer Flavin-Stallone and Cecilia Lewis were on HSN and I stopped to listen as they touted the benefits of this line.  I ordered a kit with many different products, most I didn’t care for due to fragrances, but this one was interesting.

Here is the description from the Serious Skin Care website:

“Doesn’t your skin deserve a very special beauty treatment? “C” a wonderful difference in the way your skin looks and feels with C-Extreme Results from Serious Skincare. This at-home skin resurfacing kit is a 2-part beauty treatment that helps rapidly exfoliate your skin while delivering Vitamin C.”

“What It Does: Helps skin feel incredibly soft and silky. Helps improve the appearance of mature, over-40 skin.”

The funny thing about this line of products is that when I first tried them about a decade ago the packaging looked like someone was making this stuff in their garage.  The jars and bottles were the generic plastic kind you would buy if you were making your own cosmetics and the paper labels looked like they were printed with a home computer.  Since I don’t like fancy containers anyway, this was both amusing and appealing to me.  Also, their website is a no-fuss site without a lot of information.  Recently, they have gone to fancier, more expensive packaging and they are giving you less product as a result.  Such is progress, right?

Warning:  Please do not use this product, or any physically abrasive product, if you have Rosacea without consulting your dermatologist first.

Morning Review:  This is not intended to be a daily cleanser.  This is an exfoliating product designed to be used 2-3 times per week after cleansing.  Highly sensitive skin may want to begin with once per week.  Both products are fragrance free and the scent occurs from the ingredients. Step 1 has a light generic chemical scent and step 2 has a light citrus scent.  Neither scent is offensive to me nor makes my nose run.

This product reminds me of chemistry class.  Remember when you poured vinegar or a soft drink (acids) onto a pile of baking soda (an alkali) and watched it bubble?  Such is the effect of this two-step chemical activation product.  Step 1 is gritty feeling from the baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) which is the second ingredient.  You squeeze out the off-white paste from the tube and put that all over your face.  It takes about a teaspoon of product.  You then squirt out the clear lactic acid liquid from step 2 and rub it on top of step 1.  Squirt it into the palm of your hand or it will go all over the place.  Also, you’ll need about a teaspoon of the liquid.  (For some reason I always run out of the paste before the liquid even though I try to use equal amounts.)  This product used to come with step 1 in a jar and step 2 in a squirt bottle.  That packaging made a lot more sense than this current configuration.  It is difficult to get all of the paste out of the tube and the liquid runs out too fast.

As you might expect, when these two compounds combine, they bubble up on your face and this chemical reaction exfoliates your skin.  Some people report a gentle warming sensation, others do not.  I do feel the warming sensation when I use these two products together.  The current formula is not as dramatic as when I first used the product years ago.  After gently massaging the products, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.  As with any exfoliating product, avoid the eye area.  My skin feels baby soft after using this combo and my makeup goes on flawlessly.

Morning Rating = 4 Stars for the Product, 3 Stars for the Packaging = 3.5 Stars

Evening Review:  After several hours my skin stayed smooth and I did not have any allergic reactions.  I have used this many times without any negative side effects.

Overall Review:  I prefer chemical exfoliants to physical exfoliants, and this product is unusual as it is both a chemical and physical exfoliant.  Using this product 1-2 times per week should be fine for most people.  I would say that every other day would be too frequent.  Sensitive skin should begin with once per week.  This is not a good product to use in conjunction with a cleansing brush.  The combination would prove too severe.  As with any physical exfoliant, the key is to be gentle, and don’t rub vigorously, or you will irritate your skin.

Those of you who follow me know that I am a huge fan of exfoliating and discuss the topic frequently.  Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Advanced Vitamin C Skin Resurfacer is a very good exfoliant at a mid-range price.  It definitely removes dead skin and leaves my face feeling smoother.  The scent is not offensive.  The products do not dry out my skin and my sensitive skin tolerates it well.

This product is appropriate for use by men as well as women.

This exfoliant is suitable for the following skin types: (Not for those with Rosacea)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Sensitive (but not Rosacea);
  • Oily;
  • Dry;
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars;

Evening Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars;

Average from Other Testers =4 stars 4 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Advanced Vitamin C Skin Resurfacer

Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Advanced Vitamin C Skin Resurfacer Current Packaging

Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Peel

Serious Skin Care C Extreme Results Peel Former Packaging

Ingredients (Step 1) C-Resurface: PEG-6, Sodium Bicarbonate, Oleth-20, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Dimethicone, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopheryl, Butylparaben, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Yellow 5, Yellow 6.

Ingredients (Step 2) C-Potion: Water, Lactic Acid, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Linoleamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Polyquaternium-10, Propylene Glycol, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Beta Carotene, Isopropylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Propylparaben.

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

Lancôme High Résolution Refill-3x Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream

Product:  Lancôme High Résolution Refill-3x Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream.  Today’s product is another Lancôme product that fell short of my expectations.

Overall Rating: 1+ stars  1.13 Stars = Terrible

Cost: $89.00 for 1.7 oz. ($52.35 per ounce)  Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Lancôme; Sephora; Dillard’s; Major Department Stores

Container:  Plastic jar with screw off lid;  (This is my least favorite type of container.  Each time you unscrew the lid and remove it you are exposing the contents to air, bacteria, lessening the effectiveness of the ingredients, and unless you sterilize your fingers each time before you touch the contents, even more bacteria.  If you are going to use products from jars, please remove the contents with a tiny spatula, not your fingers.  If you can’t find the spatulas in stores, message me and I’ll tell you where to buy them for cheap.)

Description:   For those of you that love Lancôme, I hope you don’t feel like I am bashing this company.  I am a huge fan of L’Oreal and when we get into makeup reviews, you will see just how big of a fan I am.  Since L’Oreal is the parent company of Lancôme, you would think I would like this line, too.  The problem is that Lancôme began as a perfume company, so it is no wonder that all of their products are so filled with fragrance, the main ingredient I am allergic to.

Lancôme High Résolution Refill-3x Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream is another heavily perfumed Lancôme product with some pretty impressive claims.  The website states, “This staple formula, featuring the Refill-3X complex, helps reduce the number, depth and size of wrinkles for visibly renewed smoothness.”  The first benefit listed is “Visible anti-wrinkle results*” and then the asterisk states, “*results may vary, wrinkles may not appear eliminated”.  It is interesting that the text in the asterisk is a different font.  Maybe it was listed as an afterthought or perhaps to comply with the FDA’s warning letter to Lancôme about false claims.

Please Note:  This formula was changed a couple of years ago and the sunscreen was removed.  If you purchase this product from Sephora, the product shown on their website does not exist any longer.  Sephora has not updated their website and they are still showing this product with an SPF of 15.  The current formula does not contain any SPF ingredients. Dillard’s has updated their product photo, but not their description.  Dillard’s is still showing SPF also.  I have posted photos of containers showing both the old and new formulas.

Morning Review:  When I first unscrewed the jar I was overwhelmed with the amount of strong fragrance in this product.  I immediately went to the ingredients to review where fragrance occurred in the list as ingredients are listed in order of content in the product.  I expected fragrance to be high up in the order.  It was listed as the last ingredient.  This tells me that the amount of anti-aging ingredients in this product is very small.  The cream is ivory in color and has a silky texture.  It feels good on your face if you don’t mind smelling like a bottle of musky perfume.

The cream feels smooth and made my skin feel soft.  The second ingredient, dimethicone, is a silicone derivative that makes for a nice primer so makeup goes on well on top of this.  The downside is that my eyes and nose were watering from the scent and after a few minutes I developed a serious headache from the fragrance.

Warning:  this product does not contain any sunscreen.  Sunscreen was removed from this formula a couple of years ago.  You must apply a separate sunscreen if you are going to use this as a day moisturizer.  Also, due to the heavy perfume, I would not advise getting this in or near your eyes.  You should use a separate eye cream with this product.

Morning Rating: 1 star1 Star

Evening Review:  To be honest, I tried several times to keep this on all day to see how my skin would react, but the heavy fragrance had such awful side effects for me that the longest I could stand it before washing it off was two hours.  The scent was physically making me ill.  One of my testers refused to apply it due to the scent.  One of my testers washed it off after a few minutes.  One of my testers who likes perfumes said it was even too strong for her but she liked the feel of the cream.  I have to agree that is does feel nice, but I couldn’t leave it on long enough to find out if there are any other benefits.

Overall Review:  Lancôme High Résolution Refill-3x Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream has a nice silky texture and it feels lovely.  The silicone and glycerin will make your skin feel soft and give you the perception that this is doing something good for your skin.  In reality, any good moisturizing cream will do the same thing at a fraction of the cost.  This cream offers nothing in the way of cutting-edge anti-aging properties or ingredients.

Most men would not like the scent of this product.

This cream is suitable for the following skin types: (Not for those with fragrance allergies)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • Women who like heavy perfumes;
  • Oily;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive (not if you are sensitive to fragrances);
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Evening Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Average from Other Testers = 1+ stars1.5 Stars;

Value Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Overall Rating = 1+ stars1.13 Stars – Terrible.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Lancôme High Résolution Refill-3x Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream-2

Lancôme Current Formula Without SPF

Lancôme High Résolution Refill-3x Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream-1

Lancôme Old Formula With SPF No Longer Available

Ingredients:  WATER, DIMETHICONE, GLYCERIN, ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE, MINERAL OIL, AMMONIUM POLYACRYLDIMETHYLTAURAMIDE / AMMONIUM POLYACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE, ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE, PHENYLBENZIMIDAZOLE SULFONIC ACID, CETYL ALCOHOL, TRIETHANOLAMINE, METHYLSILANOL/SILICATE CROSSPOLYMER, OCTYLDODECANOL, TOCOPHEROL, SODIUM HYALURONATE, MEDICAGO SATIVA EXTRACT / ALFALFA EXTRACT, HYDROLYZED RICE PROTEIN, PHENOXYETHANOL, ACETYL TRIFLUOROMETHYLPHENYL VALYLGLYCINE, ADENOSINE, PEG-8 ISOSTEARATE, ETHYLPARABEN, POLYGLYCERYL-3 METHYLGLUCOSE DISTEARATE, POLY C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE, NYLON-66, TALC, SILICA DIMETHYL SILYLATE, DIMETHICONOL, LIMONENE, XANTHAN GUM, MANGANESE GLUCONATE, LINALOOL, BENZYL ALCOHOL, CHOLESTEROL, CAPRYLOYL SALICYLIC ACID, ALPHA-ISOMETHYL IONONE, ACRYLATES COPOLYMER, SORBITAN PALMITATE, GERANIOL, DISODIUM STEAROYL GLUTAMATE, DISODIUM EDTA, METHYLPARABEN, BUTYLPHENYL METHYLPROPIONAL, CITRONELLOL, COUMARIN, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE.

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

Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum 813 RE9 Advanced

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Product:  Today we are reviewing another serum, Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum 813 RE9 Advanced.  Is this one going to work wonders for you?

Overall Rating = 3 stars3 Stars – Good

Cost:  $62.00 for 1 Fluid Ounce  Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Arbonne Website or Arbonne Independent Consultants

Container:  Plastic pump bottle with outer plastic cap.  The pump does screw off.

Description:   Arbonne was formed in Switzerland in 1975 and began selling products in the USA in 1980.  The company’s headquarters are now in Irvine, CA.  Many of you may not be familiar with this brand as it is a direct-marketing brand.  You can only purchase the products directly from the website or independent consultants, similar to Amway, Avon or Mary Kay.  I was introduced to this brand about 10 years ago from a consultant who wanted my professional opinion of the line.

The company claims to be environmentally conscious and their vegan products are primarily botanically based without toxic chemicals.  Their website is pretty impressive.

Regarding Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum, the company states, “It’s called “intensive” because it’s concentrated. The collagen-supporting ingredients are clinically proven to hold in moisture and help visibly firm and lift, while lessening the appearance of fine lines.”

I used almost a full bottle of this prior to posting this review to see if there are any long-term benefits.

Morning Review:  As with any serum, they should be applied after cleansing and toning and prior to any other products such as sunscreen, moisturizer or makeup.  Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum is slightly thicker than some serums I have used.  It is primarily clear with a slight milkiness.  It feels silky to the touch due to the high concentration of silicone derivatives.  The scent is difficult to describe but it definitely has a plant-type scent.  This is a fragrance-free product so the scent is naturally occurring due to the ingredients.  It did not make my nose run or my eyes burn, but I did sneeze the first time I sniffed it.  After application my skin has a more velvety texture and it feels slightly smoother.  Would I say my skin looks any different?  Not really, but it does feel nice.  The serum absorbs quickly.  My makeup goes on nice and smooth on top of this serum.

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin does not feel tight.  I did not experience any sensitivity or irritation issues from this product.  I have sensitive combination skin.  The oily parts did not get oilier.  The serum does seem to keep the dry parts of my skin hydrated rather well.  When I rinsed it off, my face felt silky.  After repeated use, I had the same results each time.  I did not notice any major changes whatsoever, positive or negative.

I did not notice any change in pore size, dark spots, sagginess, fine lines or wrinkles.  It did not make any of those issues worse or better.  Also, this serum did nothing to firm or lift my skin.  While it was on, my skin felt slightly tighter, but the effects were temporary and as soon as I washed it off, my skin felt the same as it always does.

Overall Review:  Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum 813 RE9 Advanced is a good botanically-based serum for all skin types, especially those with fragrance allergies.   This is suitable for both women and men and my male tester said it made his skin feel “moister”.  It is a good product with enough beneficial ingredients to warrant adding it to your regime.  It provides moisture and an improvement in texture without irritation.  It did not work miracles, but then what does?  I have yet to discover a fountain of youth in a jar.

Suitability:  This serum is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3 stars3 Stars – Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum 813 RE9 Advanced

Ingredients:  Aqua/Water/Eau, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Polysorbate 40, Polyacrylate-13, Butylene Glycol, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Fagus Sylvatica Bud Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Stoechas Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Leaf Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hypericum Perforatum Extract, Nasturtium Officinale Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract, Betula Alba Leaf Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Thioctic Acid, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Glycerin, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Sodium Lactate, Allantoin, Sodium Hydroxide, Dimethiconol, Carbomer, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Polyamino Sugar Condensate, Urea, Panthenol, Lecithin, Salicylic Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Pca, Stearamine, Silica, Tetrasodium Edta, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891).

Formulated Without:  animal products or by-products, artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners, benzene, bisphenol-a, carbon black, formaldehyde-donating preservatives, hydroquinone, mineral oil, parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sodium laureth sulfates (SLES), sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), synthetic dyes, talc, triclosan, triethanolamine (TEA), and so much more…

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

Lancôme –Advanced- Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate

Product:  Today we are reviewing Lancôme -Advanced- Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate.  Does this so-called “youth” serum really do all that it claims?

Overall Rating = 1+ stars1.75 Stars – Terrible to Just Okay

Cost: $20.00 for .27 oz. ($74.01 per fluid ounce) Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Lancôme; Sephora; Dillard’s

Container:  Plastic bottle with screw-off plastic dropper

Description:   This is a controversial product.  It has a lot of loyal followers.  So why is it controversial?  In 2012 Lancôme was all over the news for being cited by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for making false claims with many of its beauty products that were so outrageous that they fell under the guise of drugs pursuant to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.  As a result, Lancôme was forced to completely change its marketing strategies, website information, and magazine ads.  Don’t believe me?  Here is the FDA’s letter to Lancôme dated September 7, 2012.  The company was also cited for false advertising by using overly-airbrushed spokesmodels that presented unrealistic images.

Lancôme -Advanced- Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate is a very light weight serum.  This is an oil-free product.  It has a slight viscosity to it due to the third ingredient, glycerin.  It is thicker than water but not as thick as a lotion.  (Imagine a few drops of lotion in water.)  It is mostly clear but with a slight opacity to it.  This is not a fragrance-free product.  One tester described the scent as perfumed antiseptic.  To me it smells like hair spray.

The company claims this serum acts on 10 key signs of youth including: 1. skin texture; 2. resiliency; 3. elasticity; 4. firmness; 5. sagginess; 6. fine lines; 7. wrinkles; 8. radiance; 9. clarity; and 10. skin tone.

Morning Review:  Before posting this review I used a full bottle of this product on one side of my face only.  (Yes, I’m willing to sacrifice my own skin to save yours.)  The first time I put this on my face I immediately sneezed.  Then, my nose started running; after that my face began itching.  (I’m obviously allergic to the fragrance and citronellol in this serum.)  The fourth ingredient is denatured alcohol which is very drying to the skin.  The remaining ingredients are included in much lesser concentrations than the alcohol.  Due to the alcohol this serum is very quickly absorbed into your skin.  It does not leave any oily feel but it does feel silky and soft.  My makeup goes on nicely on top of the product, but not much different than the side without the serum.

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin felt irritated after itching all day and blowing my nose due to the fragrance allergy.   Sadly, after using an entire bottle, I don’t look any younger or different.  To me, the side I used the serum on looks just the same as the side I did not.  To one friend, the side I applied the serum to appeared worse.  His perception was that my face with the serum looked bumpy and irritated.  I was happy when the bottle was empty so that I would not have to smell it any longer.  I had to take a lot of allergy pills and buy lots of tissues for my runny nose during this experiment.  I did not experience any actual break outs.

Overall Review:  I do not know why anyone would rave about, much less even like this serum.  Yes, it makes your skin feel softer and silkier, but so do many other substances at one tenth the cost.  Plain glycerin costs $.65 per ounce.  The positive antioxidant ingredients, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), and Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C) can be found in other serums in higher concentrations without irritating alcohol or fragrance for considerably less money.

Lancôme –Advanced- Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry (the alcohol may be too drying for you);
  • Sensitive (not if you have fragrance allergies);
  • Oily;
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 2 stars2 Stars;

Value Rating = 1 star1 Stars;

Overall Rating = 1+ stars1.75 Stars – Terrible to Just Okay.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Lancome Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate

Ingredients:  Water, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Dimethicone, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Adenosine, Faex Extract/Yeast Extract/Extrait De Levure, Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Salicyloyl Phytosphingosine, Ammonium Polyacryldimethyltauramide/Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Limonene, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium Edta, Octyldodecanol, Citronellol, Fragrance.

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

Olay Total Effects 7-In-1 Moisturizer Plus Serum Duo

Product:  Today’s product is Olay Total Effects 7-In-1 Moisturizer Plus Serum Duo With Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 15 Fragrance Free  (Can these names get any longer?)

Overall Rating = 3 stars3 Stars – Good.

Cost:  $19.99 for 1.35 oz ($14.81 per ounce)  Price Category:  Mid-range

Sold By:  Walgreen’s; Wal-mart; Retailers everywhere

Container:  Plastic airless pump bottle with plastic cap and outer paper carton.  This pump bottle is sealed and the top does not screw off so you cannot refill the bottle or use it with other products.  I am a huge fan of this type of container because it presents the least potential for contamination.  Always keep your cap over the nozzle and it will stay protected.  The airless pumps are also quite effective at getting every last trace of product out of the bottle.

Description:  The name of this product pretty much sums up what the product’s intended use is.  In case you are wondering, the 7 benefits this product supposedly provides are: 1. Visibly smooths fine lines and wrinkles; 2. Evens skin tone appearance; 3. Enhances brightness instantly; 4. Instantly minimizes the look of pores; 5. Smooths and evens out skin texture; 6. Hydrates for a firm look; 7. Replenishes moisture.

I would argue that hydrating and replenishing moisture is the same thing (benefits 6 and 7).  Typically, hydration occurs as a result of replacing water and moisture from replacing lost oils, but the perception is the same.  Supposedly benefit number 8 would be the anti-aging benefit of an effective sunscreen.  I would like to see an SPF of 30 instead of 15.  This product contains a broad-spectrum sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection which is important.  I’ll get into an in-depth discussion of sunscreens when we get to those reviews.

This is a fragrance-free product.  The Olay moisturizer is intended to be used after cleansing and prior to makeup.  You can replace the separate steps of applying serum, moisturizer and sunscreen with this one product.  Technically, this is three products in one, not seven or eight.

Morning Review:  I have been familiar with the Olay line of products for over 20 years.  They are constantly changing the names of products and putting them in different packaging, but their basic formulas are very similar.

This Olay moisturizer, although fragrance-free, has a definite scent to it.  I don’t know how to describe it other than a  chemical smell.  It is not offensive or irritating, but it is definitely there.  I don’t particularly care for the scent.

This is a thick white cream, much heavier than most Olay products.  It has a velvety feel to it when applied to the face.  If I accidentally get it into my eyes it does burn, so I recommend keeping it clear of the eye area.  This product has a very unusual side effect for me and others have reported the same experience.  If I have not exfoliated for a while before I use this, my skin just peels off a few minutes after I apply it to my face.  So much so that if I run out of my exfoliating products I use this.  If I have exfoliated immediately prior to application then it seems to be absorbed well.  It definitely provides a lot of moisture and hydration.  I do not think users with oily skin would like this product.

Makeup goes on very smooth on top of this product but only if I have recently exfoliated.  Otherwise, it is a disaster.  The first layer goes down the drain (with my dead skin) and then I have to reapply this moisturizer prior to makeup.

Regarding reducing lines/wrinkles, evening skin tone/texture, enhancing brightness, or reducing pore size, I would have to say no to all of the above.  I applied this to one side of my face only and examined it with a 15 power magnifying mirror.  I then had someone else examine my face with a medical-grade magnifier and he could not tell which side I applied the product to.  The only difference is that the side with the product felt softer when I touched my face, but there were no visible differences.

Morning Rating:  3 stars3 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin does not feel tight or dry.  If anything this product makes it feel a little oily as the day progresses.  I used this in Florida every day for a week and it did protect my face from burning.  There are other sunscreens that work much better so if you are only buying this product for that benefit, I have others I can recommend.

Overall Review:  Olay Total Effects 7-In-1 Moisturizer Plus Serum Duo With Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 15 Fragrance Free is a good reasonably-priced moisturizer if you have normal to dry skin and you don’t experience the peeling effect.

I would be interested in hearing from you and your experience with this product.  I have clients that use this product and their skin does not peel with it as mine does.

This moisturizer is suitable for the following skin types: (all but not oily)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3 stars3 Stars – Good. (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Olay Total Effects 7-In-1 Moisturizer Plus Serum Duo With Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 15 Fragrance Free Box

Olay Total Effects 7-In-1 Moisturizer Plus Serum Duo With Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 15 Fragrance Free

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients:  Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%, Sunscreen), Homosalate (4%, Sunscreen), Octisalate (4.5%, Sunscreen), Octocrylene (2.6%, Sunscreen). Inactive Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Tapioca Starch, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Acetyl Glucosamine, Dimethicone, Panthenol, Stearyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyethylene, Benzyl Alcohol, Titanium Dioxide, Isohexadecane, Nylon 12, Methylparaben, Dimethiconol, Ethylparaben, Allantoin, PEG 100 Stearate, Propylparaben, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Polysorbate 60, Sodium PEG 7 Olive Oil Carboxylate, Disodium EDTA, Stearic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Iron Oxides.

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

 

Tatcha LUMINOUS Deep Hydration Lifting Mask

Product:  Today’s product is Tatcha LUMINOUS Deep Hydration Lifting Mask.  Please let me know if you have used this mask and what your results were, positive or negative.

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good.

Cost:  $25 for .68 oz. serum per mask ($36.76 per ounce for the serum)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By:  Tatcha; Sephora; QVC

Container:   Mask comes in a sealed foil envelope packed inside of a tissue-wrapped paper box.

Description:  This is another product from the Japanese company, Tatcha.  This mask is intended to be used once or twice a week or anytime your skin needs deep hydration.  This is a fragrance-free product.  The scent is naturally occurring from the ingredients.

Caution:  Do not use this product if you have coconut allergies.  The company claims this product contains coconut water despite the fact that the ingredients do not list Cocos Nucifera (coconut water).

Morning Review:  This mask is a little unusual.  Unlike most masks that come out of a tube or jar, this one has the hydrating serum infused into a thin plastic-type fabric that you unfold, place on your face, and let it evaporate.  This is commonly referred to as a sheet mask.  The serum is very thin and watery feeling.

Here are the directions from Tatcha:

“Begin with clean, dry skin. Unfold the mask and peel away one layer of paper backing. Place the mask gel-side down on the skin and adjust to fit comfortably around the eyes. Peel away the remaining layer of paper and smooth the mask to the skin. Leave on for 15 minutes, enjoying the cooling and gentle tingling sensation of hydration. Remove mask and massage the remaining serum into the skin – do not rinse. Follow with your favorite moisturizer to seal in hydration.”

First off, the “paper backing” is not paper at all.  It is polyester tulle, the same mesh fabric that wedding veils are made of.  This is not part of the mask and should be removed prior to application.  Secondly, both sides of the mask feel and look exactly the same so I’m not sure what the “gel side” is.  The plastic feels like a thin surgeon’s glove.  Since both sides are very wet with the serum solution, I’m not sure it matters which side goes against the face.  I advise you to lie down before applying the mask to your face.  Because the serum is almost like water, if you apply this standing up, it is probably going to run down your neck and everywhere else.  Unfold the mask and place it on your face.  Carefully smooth the mask working from the center out to the edges.  Press gently to make sure the mask is making contact with your face.  Pour the leftover serum from the envelope into your palm and apply it to your neck and décolletage.  The serum feels very cool and has a light fresh naturally-occurring scent.  If you have time, leave it on for more than 15 minutes.  The longer it stays on, the better it works, but remove it before it is completely dry.  If you want the full experience, light some candles, turn on your favorite mellow music and have a little Zen moment while your mask is on.

After removal, my skin feels soft, fresh and revitalized.  My makeup goes on flawlessly.  Do not wash your face after removing the mask.  The serum will continue to be absorbed for several hours.

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin does not feel tight.  It still feels soft and smooth.  The hydrating effects of the mask last for several hours.

Overall Review:  Tatcha LUMINOUS Deep Hydration Lifting Mask is an excellent product.  Once again, the only downside is the cost, and the unnecessary packaging.  The Tatcha products come in beautiful packaging; this one is not as expensive or elaborate as the others.  Several dollars for a good quality mask is not unreasonable.  $25 for one mask is a little steep for the average consumer, but certainly less than the cost of a professional facial or a spa visit.

This is a wonderful product any time your skin really feels dry or needs a pick me up.  This is also a good product when you want to feel pampered or before a big event when you want your skin to look its absolute best.  These are a commonly-used product back stage at red-carpet events.  I use this on celebrities in Hollywood, models before makeup application, and on brides before weddings.  The intense hydration temporarily plumps up the skin reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Here’s a recap to achieve the best benefits:

  • Begin with clean hands;
  • Begin with a freshly cleansed face free of makeup;
  • Be careful when opening the envelope and removing the mask so as not to tear it;
  • Remove the mesh backing before applying it to your face;
  • Make sure the entire mask is flat against your skin with no bubbles or creases;  (If it doesn’t make contact with your skin it is not going to do any good.)
  • Don’t waste the extra serum and apply it to your neck and décolleté;
  • After applying to your face remove the top mesh layer;
  • Remove the mask before the serum completely evaporates and the mask feels dry to the touch;
  • Don’t wash your face right away after removing the mask;
  • Relax and say aaahhhhhh.

This mask is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.5 Stars – Very Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Tatcha LUMINOUS Deep Hydration Lifting MaskTatcha LUMINOUS Deep Hydration Lifting Mask Single

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tatcha Sheet Mask Tub

Ingredients:  Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Alcohol, PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-20, Inositol (Rice Extract), Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Eicosanedioate/Tetradecanedioate,  Polyglyceryl-10 Isostearate, Chondrus Crispus (Red Algae) Extract, Fragrance (Natural), Sericin (Silk Extract), Xanthan Gum, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Algae Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Thymus Serpillum Extract, Phenoxyethanol.

Formulated without:  Parabens, Mineral Oil, Synthetic fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

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