Tag: Face

Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup

4 Comments

This post was updated on February 16, 2020.

Product:  Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup for Face and Body.  This is one to reach for when you need serious coverage.

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

Cost: $39.50 (1.0 fl. oz.) ($39.50 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By:  Estée Lauder; Dillard’s; Nordstrom; Sephora; Major department stores everywhere.

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

Description:  Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup is a waterproof opaque foundation with a UVA/UVB Broad-Spectrum Sun Protection Factor of 15.  This product replaced the popular product that was discontinued formerly known as, “Estee Lauder Maximum Cover Lightweight Makeup”.

Formula:  Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup is a thick liquid to lightweight cream foundation.  The formula provides full-coverage opacity and dries to a powdery matte finish.  The formula is buildable for even greater coverage.

Sensitivity:  Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup is fragrance free and is suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Company Claims:

“12-hour wear. Natural-looking. Long-wearing.

This soothing liquid-creme makeup is designed to camouflage all skin imperfections, including surgical and acne scars, tattoos, birthmarks, sun spots and varicose veins. Helps protect with SPF 15.

BENEFITS:
Full, concealing coverage. Long-wear.

COVERAGE – Full

FINISH- Matte

FORMULA FACTS

  • Broad Spectrum SPF 15
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Non-acnegenic; won’t clog pores”

Discussion:  If you like a full-coverage makeup, this one feels light on the skin but covers extremely well.  If you prefer a very light natural-looking or luminous makeup, this one is not for you.  I have fair skin with freckles and my freckles completely disappear when I apply this foundation.  They have a tendency to show through most foundations, but not this one.

Colors:  Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup comes in sixteen colors (previously 8 colors):  1N1 Ivory Nude; 1N3 Creamy Vanilla; 1C1 Cool Bone; 2C5 Creamy Tan; 2N1 Desert Beige; 2W1 Dawn; 2W2 Rattan; 3N1 Ivory Beige; 3C4 Medium Deep; 3W1 Tawny; 3W2 Cashew; 4N2 Spiced Sand; 4W1Honey Bronze; 4W2 Toasty Toffee; 5W2 Rich Caramel; and 6W1 Sandalwood.  The 1N3 is a good match for my ivory-toned fair skin.  Colors with an “N” are neutral; colors with a “C” are cool; and colors with a “W” are warm.  For those with a very fair porcelain skin the lightest shade may be slightly too dark for you.

Morning Review:  After cleansing, toning, moisturizing and priming, I applied Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup.  If you have oily skin, you should skip the moisturizer, but do not skip the primer.  The primer will help to extend the wear of this foundation.

I have experimented applying this foundation with fingers, a foundation brush and a sponge beauty blender.  It sets up very quickly, so I have found that it works best with a flat-head brush by buffing it on.  If you need thick coverage, fingers will work better.

Helpful Tips and Tricks:

  • Make sure your skin has been recently exfoliated prior to using this foundation, especially if you have dry skin, or it will settle into the dry patches and be difficult to blend.
  • A little goes a long way; don’t apply too much product to your face. Work with small dots of product.
  • It dries very quickly so don’t apply it to your whole face at once; work in small areas at a time.
  • For heavy coverage, apply it with your fingers and pat it on, don’t rub.
  • For lighter coverage, apply it with a foundation brush or damp beauty blender sponge.
  • If you have dry skin, use a moisturizer or moisturizing primer first.
  • As this dries to a powdery finish, do not put any type of creams (blushes, contours, highlighters) on top of this, only powders.  Creams don’t blend well on top of powders.
  • For full waterproof coverage, set it with a fixing spray. I like Luminess, Urban Decay or MAC.

Evening Review:  On my dry skin, Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup does not budge and lasts for 10-12 hours.  When I use this on clients with oily skin, they can expect to get 6-8 hours of wear.  It will come off with regular facial cleanser; it will not rinse off with just plain water.  I have used this on models for outdoor water shoots with very good results.

Overall Review:  Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup offers full coverage without a heavy feel on the skin.  It can be tricky to blend if you try to work on too large of an area.  As long as you work quickly and in small sections, it works extremely well.

Pros:

  • Professional quality results
  • Full coverage hides all types of skin issues and discolorations
  • Moderate Broad-Spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15
  • Waterproof
  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Skin-friendly ingredients
  • Long lasting

Cons:

  • Dries very quickly so you need to work fast
  • If your skin is extremely fair, there may not be a color light enough.

Suitability:  Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup is suitable for the following users:

  • All users
  • I would not use this on a man unless it was for performance purposes.  It can be difficult to blend over the man’s beard area.

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.

Would Buy Again?  Yes

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

Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup

Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup Color 1N3 Creamy Vanilla

Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup Color 1N3 Creamy Vanilla

Without and With Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup

Ingredients:  ISODODECANE; ISOHEXADECANE; METHYL METHACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER; PETROLATUM; GLYCERYL STEARATE; DISTEARDIMONIUM HECTORITE; HYDROGENATED STYRENE/ ISOPRENE COPOLYMER; MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX\CERA MICROCRISTALLINA\CIRE MICROCRISTALLINE; KAOLIN; CHOLESTEROL; ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT; FUSANUS SPICATUS WOOD OIL; TOCOPHERYL ACETATE; LINOLEIC ACID; GLYCINE SOJA (SOYBEAN) OIL; STEARYL GLYCYRRHETINATE; BISABOLOL; SILICA; PROPYLENE CARBONATE; METHYLDIHYDROJASMONATE; POLYETHYLENE; 2,6-DIMETHYL-7-OCTEN-2-OL; POLYGLYCERYL-3 DIISOSTEARATE; PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-T-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE; ALUMINA; PHENETHYL ALCOHOL; [+/- IRON OXIDES (CI 77491); IRON OXIDES (CI 77492); IRON OXIDES (CI 77499); TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891); MICA; BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE (CI 77163)] <40794>

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

ELF Makeup Remover Pen

Product:  ELF Makeup Remover Pen.  If your makeup is always perfect and you never make mistakes, you don’t need this.  If you are among the other 99% of people (including me), this little pen is a stroke of genius.

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars – Excellent

Cost:  $3.00 each (.12 fl. oz.) ($25 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Dirt Cheap

Sold By:  Elf Cosmetics; Ulta; Walgreen’s; Walmart; Retailers everywhere.

Container:  Plastic pen with snap-on cap, outer carton.

Description:  ELF Makeup Remover Pen is exactly what it sounds like.  This is a pen that looks like a marker only instead of containing ink, it contains makeup remover.

Sensitivity:  ELF Makeup Remover Pen is fragrance-free and neither I, nor my clients/testers, have experienced any sensitivities.  I have used this for several years without any problems.

Company Claims:  “Mascara smears? Uneven eyeliner? Quickly remove or correct small makeup smudges, smears and mistakes without having to take off the rest of your makeup! The gentle and non-greasy formula erases even long wearing and waterproof makeup for flawless touch ups, perfect for throwing in your purse or gym bag when you’re on-the-go! Infused with Vitamin E, Cucumber and Chamomile to moisturize and condition skin.”

Discussion:  ELF, also known as e.l.f. (which stands for eyes, lips, face), is a readily-available, very inexpensive makeup brand.  Some of their products rival much higher-end brands at surprisingly affordable prices.

What do you do when you have a makeup slip?  Grab a cotton swab with some makeup remover?  That will work, but it may remove too much makeup, leave cotton fibers on your face, or make matters worse.  ELF Makeup Remover Pen with its pointed tip will take off a tiny error without disturbing the rest of your makeup, which is a much better solution.

As a makeup professional, I don’t make a lot of blatant errors, but I occasionally have a line that I would like to be more precise, or a client blinks at the wrong time and this pen solves a myriad of issues.

Colors:  ELF Makeup Remover Pen  comes in one color, clear.

Daily Review:  If there is an area on your makeup that needs a precision fix such as a mascara dot, winged eyeliner edge or lipliner mistake, just swipe the tip and clean your mistake.  It dries quickly, doesn’t leave an oily residue, and you can go over it with makeup if you need to.

Helpful Tips:

  • ELF Makeup Remover Pen only works when the tip is clean, so be sure and wipe off the tip with an alcohol pad and clean it after each use.
  • If you don’t clean the tip and use it dirty, instead of removing a makeup error, it will smudge.
  • Once the tip can no longer be cleaned, pull it out and flip it to the other side to get double use out of it.

Overall Review:  ELF Makeup Remover Pen is a handy little tool that is effective and is very easy to use.

Pros:

  • Offers quick fixes
  • Small size for handbag or beauty kit
  • Good for travel with no potential leaking issues
  • Great value

Cons:

  • None

Suitability:  ELF Makeup Remover Pen is suitable for the following users:

  • All users

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 5 stars5 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4.25 Stars = Excellent.

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

ELF Makeup Remover PenELF Makeup Remover Pen BoxELF Makeup Remover Pen Box Reverse

ELF Makpeup Remover Pen Ti

ELF Makeup Remover Pen Tip

ELF Makeup Remover Pen Tip Removed

ELF Makeup Remover Pen Tip Removed

Ingredients:  Isododecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cyclohexasiloxane, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate (Ve), Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract,Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Propylparaben.

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

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild

Product:  Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild.  Will this cleanser leave your skin soft or stripped?  What about the dupe – does it work?

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

Cost: $17.00 for 6.7 oz. ($2.54 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Mid-range

Sold By:  Clinique; Dillard’s; Sephora; Major Department Stores.  Equate version sold by Wal-mart.

Container:  Clinique Liquid Soap Mild  – Plastic bottle with plastic pump; pump does twist off. Equate MILD Facial Soap – Plastic bottle with plastic pump; pump does twist off.

Description:  Clinique Liquid Facial Soap comes in three formulas: (1) Extra Mild; (2) Mild; and (3) Oily Skin Formula.  As with all products from the Clinique line, this cleanser is fragrance free.

The company states, “The first step in Clinique’s 3-Step Skin Care System. All the benefits of Clinique’s dermatologist-developed Facial Soap in a liquid formula. Cleanses without stripping protective lipids. Preps skin for the exfoliating action of Clarifying Lotion. Convenient pump dispenses just the right amount.”

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild is a cleanser designed to be used with water.  This is a lathering cleanser. It is intended to be used night and day, prior to the application of any other product.

Wal-mart also makes a version of the Clinique product called Equate MILD Facial Soap.  Today, not only are we going to review the Clinique product, but we are also going to compare it to the Equate version.  The results may surprise you.

Morning Review:  Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild is clear and it has a very faint scent that is almost nonexistent.  I don’t know how to describe the scent other than a light chemical scent similar to wet paint.  The barely detectable scent does not bother me or make my nose run.  The liquid is about the same thickness as dish detergent.  One pump is more than enough to wash my face and I would say a full pump is way too much.  I wet my face and applied the soap and it immediately began to lather.  It felt nice and gentle on my skin.  It left my face feeling very clean.  It did not make my skin feel itchy or irritated at all.  I only used this on one side of my face for comparison.

My morning review for the Equate MILD Facial Soap on the other side of my face is surprising.  It smells, looks, and feels the same as the Clinique cleanser.  It cleans very well without irritation.

Unfortunately for both products, my skin felt dry after using these cleansers which was disappointing.

Morning Rating = 3 stars4 Stars for how well they clean, 2 Stars for drying my skin = 3 Stars

Evening Review:  After several hours my skin felt very dry and in need of some serious moisture.  Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild removes all traces of face makeup and my makeup wipes are clean after using this soap.  You will need to use a separate eye makeup remover with this cleanser.  This would be a good cleanser to use with a sonic cleansing brush.

My evening review for the Equate MILD Facial Soap on the other side of my face is once again exactly the same.  I would have to say that the Equate cleanser performs as well as the Clinique cleanser.

Please Note:  If you have Rosacea, please check with your dermatologist before using the Clinique or Equate cleansers.  It should be fine if your skin is consistent to oily, but you can make your situation worse by experimenting with new products on your own.

Overall Review:  Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild is an excellent cleanser in terms of cleansing ability but I cannot give it a high recommendation because any product that is drying to the skin is not beneficial no matter what your skin type is.

A review of the ingredients shows that Sodium Chloride is the third ingredient in both the Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild and the Equate MILD Facial Soap.  Sodium Chloride is, quite simply, table salt and salt is not a good thing to put on your face.  If you have dry skin this is going to dry it out even further.  If you have oily skin this soap is going to clean well and your skin will feel good at first, but then your body will produce extra oil to compensate for the fact that you have removed your own natural oils.  I give the Clinique company the highest of marks and ratings for their lack of fragrance and typically their products are very gentle, but for me this product just falls a little short.

This cleanser is suitable for women and men provided it does not have a drying effect on your skin.  Everyone reacts differently to products and perhaps this one will work well for you.  It may perform well for you if you have oily skin.  It is not a product I would buy again unless I had no other fragrance-free options.  If you have severe fragrance allergies, you should not have any negative reaction to this product whatsoever.  My male tester who also has dry skin said this cleanser left his skin feeling very dried out and he needed to put lotion on afterwards.

Regarding comparing the two products, Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild and Equate MILD Facial Soap, they are so similar that it is difficult to differentiate between them.  If you read the ingredients lists below you will see just how similar.  Equate simply changed the order of some of the ingredients and added a different form of Vitamin E so that they could not be charged with completely copying a proprietary formula.  If you have normal to oily skin and like the Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild you can save money with the Equate MILD Facial Soap and they are so similar I doubt you will notice any difference.

I have not tried the other two versions of this cleanser from Clinique so I cannot comment on the differences.  A review of the ingredients from the Mild to the Extra Mild formulas shows that they are completely different.  The Extra Mild formula is an oil-based, non-lathering lotion type of cleanser so that product would not be comparable to the Mild formula at all.  I would not recommend the Oily skin version of this liquid soap.  The Oily version contains menthol which some people are sensitive to and other drying ingredients that should be avoided.

Equate only makes the Mild version of the Clinique Liquid Facial Soap.  They do not have a copy for the Extra Mild or the Oily Skin formulas.

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild is suitable for the following skin types:  (Not for dry to very dry skin)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination (Only if Combination is Consistent plus Oily).

Please see the Help page to accurately determine your skin type.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.75 Stars – Just Okay to Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Mild

Equate MILD Facial Soap

Equate MILD Facial Soap

Ingredients (Clinique Liquid Soap Mild): Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate, Tea-Cocoyl Glutamate, Di-PPG-2 Myreth-10 Adipate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sucrose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetyl Triethylmonium Dimethicone PEG-8 Succinate, Tocopheryl Ethyl Succinate Ethyldimonium Ethosulfate, Butylene Glycol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria), Hexylene Glycol, Polyquaternium-7, Laureth-2, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Sulfate, Edta, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol.

Ingredients (Equate MILD Facial Soap): Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate, Sodium-Cocoyl Glutamate, Di-PPG-2 Myreth-10 Adipate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sucrose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetyl Triethylmonium Dimethicone PEG-8 Succinate, Butylene Glycol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria), Hexylene Glycol, Polyquaternium-7, Laureth-2, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Sulfate, Edta, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol.

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

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

Product:  First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream.  Does your skin need serious help?

Overall Rating =  3+ stars3.25 Stars – Good

Cost: $30.00 for 6 oz. ($5.00 per ounce)  Price Category:  Mid-range

Sold By:  FirstAidBeauty; QVC; Sephora; Ulta

Container:  Larger Sizes – Plastic jar with twist-off lid; Smaller Sizes – Plastic tube with twist-off flip-top cap

Description:  First Aid Beauty is a line many of you may not be familiar with.  This is a relatively new brand of cosmetics and has only been around since 2009.  This brand first caught my attention because the entire line is fragrance free and all of the products say they are safe for sensitive skin.  The brand really took off when they got their products into Sephora stores, on QVC, and starting getting buzz from beauty editors.  First Aid Beauty (FAB) has received quite a lot of media attention in recent years, most of it positive as far as I can tell.

FAB Ultra Repair Cream is a fragrance-free cream that is best for consistent, dry, combination or sensitive skin.  This cream may be too intense for oily skin.  This cream is intended to be used both on the face any anywhere on the body.  Since this is a thick and heavy cream, this should be used after other products, if applying it to the face.

My skin has been taking a beating the past few weeks with all of the testing I have been doing so I was happy to try out a cream with “ultra repair” in the name.

Please Note:  This product contains Eucalyptus Globulus (next to last ingredient).  Many individuals are sensitive to eucalyptus and this may cause irritation if you don’t tolerate eucalyptus well.  If you experience burning or itching, please discontinue use.

The company claims:  “DELIVERS EXCEPTIONAL HYDRATION AND PROTECTION WITH NO GREASY PETROLEUM – FAB Ultra Repair® Cream is a thick, rich, emollient product that hydrates deep down with exceptional penetration. With the help of colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, soothing eucalyptus oil and ceramides, FAB Ultra Repair® Cream provides immediate relief and visible improvement for distressed skin. FAB Antioxidant Booster is there to defend skin from free radical damage. Ultra Repair® Cream can be used all over the body and on the face. “

Regarding the skin types this cream is intended for the company further states, “WHO SHOULD USE IT?  FAB Ultra Repair® Cream is for anyone with severely dry, scaly skin due to harsh winter weather, aggressive cosmetic treatments or any of the following conditions: psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, irritant eczema, allergic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, keratosis pilaris.”

Please Note:  This product is not intended to treat any medical condition.  Before using this or any product, please consult your dermatologist.

Reviewing the ingredients, this cream is not going to provide any real anti-aging benefits or cutting-edge ingredients.  It is a nice basic cream that will provide hydration and moisture from colloidal oatmeal, glycerin and shea butter.

Morning Review:  The FAB Ultra Repair Cream is a bright white thick cream.  This does not contain any SPF or sunscreen ingredients.  Apply this after your serum or primer and sunscreen. It has a velvety texture and a dollop about the size of a raspberry (1/4 teaspoon) is enough for just the face.  You will probably use a full tablespoon or more if you are going to apply this to your entire body.  The scent is difficult to describe.  It smells like a eucalyptus candle to me.  It is very subtle and does not linger once applied to the skin.  I did not experience any negative side effects from the scent.  The cream feels very hydrating and soothing to my irritated, sensitive skin.  Because this cream is so dense, I do not think users with oily skin will like this one, despite the claims from the company that this cream is suitable for all skin types.  It takes a while for this to fully absorb into the skin, so if you are planning on putting makeup on top of it, you may need to allow for an extra five minutes.

Morning Rating =  4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin does not feel dry, tight or oily.  I did not experience any irritation, redness or sensitivity issues.  The FAB cream really helped to calm my skin down and kept it feeling soft and smooth for several hours.

Overall Review:  First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream seems to be an excellent heavy cream for all skin types except oily, especially those with fragrance allergies.  This is suitable for both women and men.  My male tester did not find the scent displeasing and could barely smell anything.  This would be an excellent hand cream for men who have rough skin.  I would say I like this better as a hand or body cream than a face cream.  It simply feels too heavy and smothering to me.  I don’t like to feel like there is anything on my skin.  Also, I don’t like to use separate creams and sunscreens, so I would only use this at night or if I were staying in for the day.

The cream is available in tubes in smaller sizes and jars in larger sizes.  Even though the cost per ounce is less in the jar, I would buy the smaller tubes to protect the contents from contamination.  Even though the concentration of anti-oxidants in this creams is quite small, what little there is will be sensitive to air and light and rendered ineffective over time if you buy the jar.

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream is suitable for the following skin types:  (All but oily)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive (not if sensitive to eucalyptus);
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.25 Stars – Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair CreamFirst Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Open JarFirst Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream in Hand

Ingredients:  Colloidal Oatmeal, Water, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Squalane, Allantoin, Sodium Hydroxide, Dimethicone, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Ceramide 3.

Formulated Without:  Artificial fragrance, Colorants, Parabens.

Please Note:  There has been some controversy regarding whether Feverfew Extract is good or bad for your skin.  The Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract that First Aid Beauty uses is free of the potentially sensitizing component Parthenolide (technically known as Sesquiterpene Lactone).  Feverfew itself, when Parthenolide-free, has a calming effect on the skin.

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

First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser

Product:  First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser.  Is this the facial wash your skin needs to stay clean and healthy?

Overall Rating =  3+ stars3.67 Stars – Very Good to Excellent

Cost: $20.00 for 5 oz. ($4.00 per ounce)  Price Category:  Mid-range

Sold By:  FirstAidBeauty; QVC; Sephora; Ulta

Container:  Plastic tube with flip-top cap; cap does screw off

Description:  First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser is a fragrance-free cream facial wash that you mix with water and then rinse off.  This cleanser is intended to be used night and day, prior to the application of any other product.

I am always on a quest for a gentle cleanser that will work effectively and not wreak havoc with my extremely sensitive skin.  If you don’t do anything but keep your skin clean without stripping it, keep it exfoliated, and wear sunscreen every day, you’ll probably age beautifully and have nice skin.  It sounds simple enough but finding products to accomplish that can prove difficult.

I am new to this brand but I will be trying many of their products to see how well they really perform.  The entire line is fragrance free.  I have read the ingredients labels of every single product and there is not a hint of fragrance anywhere.  Whoo hoo!

The company claims: “FAB Face Cleanser gently cleanses the skin, removes surface oils, make up, dirt and grime. Its whipped texture transforms into a rich cream when blended with water. It is infused with a powerful botanical antioxidant blend that works hard to scavenger free radicals.”  There are additional claims on their website.

Morning Review:  The First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser is a bright white, thick cream.  This does not contain any exfoliating ingredients.  It has a pretty pearlescent quality and a dollop about the size of a blueberry is enough to clean your entire face.  I wet my face first and then massaged the cleanser onto my face.  It does not lather or produce bubbles but it does have a very slight foaming property.  It has almost no scent and just smells clean.  There is a very slight inoffensive chemical component to the scent.  The scent does not make my nose run, eyes water, or produce any negative side effects whatsoever.  The thick cleanser feels gentle and soothing to my skin.  It rinsed off completely and did not leave any oily residue.  My skin did not feel tight or stripped.  My first impression was, “Wow, very nice!”  Let’s see how my skin actually reacts to this after several hours.

Morning Rating =  4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin does not feel tight or oily.  I did not experience any irritation or redness, but something is making my face break out (see note below).  The FAB cleanser effectively removes makeup and my wipes did not find any traces of makeup when using this with just my hands. The cleanser did not make my face feel anything other than clean.  Imagine that!  This would be a very good cleanser to use with a cleansing brush.

Note:  After several hours my skin began to break out and I ended up with six blemishes on my face.  I suspect the blemishes may have been due to a product I used the previous day.  I am going to give my skin a few days to completely clear and then I will re-test this cleanser and revise my review.

Overall Review: First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser seems to be an excellent facial wash for all skin types, especially those with fragrance allergies and/or other sensitivities.  This is suitable for both women and men.  I think men could also shave with this product and I will report back on that aspect.

This is a preliminary review.  I will re-test this product once my skin clears and also get a report from other testers.

This cleanser 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 = ? Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating = 3+ stars3.67 Stars – Very Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser

Ingredients:  Water (Aqua), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Stearyl Alcohol,Sodium PCA, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Allantoin, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Palm Kernel/Coco Glucoside, Glyceryl Stearate, Disodium EDTA, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid.

Formulated Without:  Artificial fragrance, Dyes, Parabens.

Please Note:  There has been some controversy regarding whether Feverfew Extract is good or bad for your skin.  The Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract that First Aid Beauty uses is free of the potentially sensitizing component Parthenolide (technically known as Sesquiterpene Lactone).  Feverfew itself, when Parthenolide-free, has a calming effect on the skin.

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.

Olay Total Effects Deep Pore Lathering Cleansing Cloths

Product:  Olay Total Effects Deep Pore Lathering Cleansing Cloths.  This product used to be known as Olay Total Effects Age Defying Cleansing Cloths.  Today’s product is a lathering cleansing cloth that you use with water like a washcloth.

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

Cost: $9.89 for 30 cloths ($.33 each)  Price Category:  Inexpensive

Sold By:  Wal-mart; Walgreen’s

Container:  Either paper box (new formula) or plastic box (old formula)

Description:  These are a two-sided (textured/smooth) cleansing cloth intended to be used once and then disposed.  You add water, they lather, you scrub, you toss.  These are intended to be used as a daily facial cleanser both morning and night.  This product is not fragrance free and does contain fragrance (parfum).  The textured side is a physical exfoliant.

The company states, “Total Effects Deep Pore Lathering cloths gently cleanse, exfoliate and revive skin in one simple step. At the same time, they infuse moisturization to soften skin and enhance brightness.”  Olay further claims this product “Fights 7 Signs of Aging: 1. Cleans deep; 2. Instantly refines the appearance of pores; 3. Gently exfoliates; 4. Instantly reduces the appearance of fine lines; 5. Enhances brightness; 6. Softens skin; 7. Replenishes moisture.

Cosmetic companies are notorious for slightly altering ingredients, changing packaging and changing names of essentially the same products so they can market something new.  Since most people always want the newest, most innovative products, this keeps consumers motivated to buy.  This product has been around for many years under different names and formulations.  The new cloths are thinner and smaller than the previous cleansing cloths.

Warning:  Please do not use the textured side of these cloths, or any physically abrasive scrubbing product, if you have Rosacea without consulting your dermatologist first.

Morning Review:  When I first opened the container I could smell the perfume-type fragrance.  One of my testers described the scent as “baby powder”.  It doesn’t smell like baby powder to me.  It is a floral type of scent.  These are a thick two-layer cleansing cloth.  One side is solid and smooth and the other side has holes and is textured.  I cut one into fourths and separated the layers to show you.  (See photos below)  As soon as you get this cloth wet and begin rubbing in on your face it begins to lather like soap.  One cloth is large enough to almost wash your entire body.  I was able to wash just my face with one quarter of a cloth.  I began with the textured side on my nose.  The textured side was too rough for my sensitive skin and I only used the smooth side on my face.  I used the textured side for elbows, knees, feet, etc.  Please rub gently, not vigorously, with any exfoliating product.  Please do not rub this on your eyes.  This is not a product for removing eye makeup.  You could wash your face with this after you have removed your eye makeup.  My face did feel very clean after using this and my skin felt soft.  The fragrance was too strong for me though.

Morning Rating: = 2 stars2 Stars

Evening Review:  After several hours my skin stayed smooth and I did not have any allergic reactions other than my runny nose due to the fragrance.  The skin on my nose became oily after using the cleansing cloth.  I think this was due to the textured side being too harsh and the lathering ingredients being too drying for my skin which caused my oily area to compensate by producing more oil.  My skin does not react favorably to any product with lathering agents.

Overall Review:  Olay Total Effects Deep Pore (Age Defying) Lathering Cleansing Cloths are a good cleansing cloth if you like a product that lathers and you don’t have any fragrance allergies.  It definitely scrubbed my pores clean and left my skin feeling smoother.  However, the textured side was too harsh for my sensitive skin and I did not tolerate the fragrance well.  I would stay away from this one if you have sensitive skin or Rosacea.

The cloths do contain some nice vitamins, but they are not going to be on your face long enough to prove beneficial and the lathering agents are going to wash them away.

Most men would not like the floral perfume in this product.  My male tester sniffed it and did not even want to try it.

These cloths are suitable for the following skin types: (Not for sensitive or those with Rosacea)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • Women who like fragrance;
  • Oily;
  • Dry;
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 2 stars2 Stars;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.5 Stars – Okay to Good.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Olay Total Effects Deep Pore Lathering Cleansing ClothsOlay Cloth Section Both Sides

Olay Cloth Section Textured SideOlay Cloth Section Smooth Side

Olay Total Effects Age Defying Cleansing Cloths 1

Olay Total Effects Age Defying Cleansing Cloths Old Name and Photo 1

Olay Total Effects Age Defying Cleansing Cloths 2

Olay Total Effects Age Defying Cleansing Cloths Old Name and Photo 2

Current Formula Ingredients:  Water, Niacinamide*, Glycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Panthenol**, Tocopheryl Acetate***, Ascorbic Acid+, Dimethiconol, Butylene Glycol, DMDM Hydantoin, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Polysorbate 20, Acrylates/Vinyl Isodecanoate Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Potassium Hydroxide, Fragrance. *Vitamin B3, **Pro-VitaminB5, ***Vitamin E, +Vitamin C.

Old Formula Ingredients: PEG 100, Sucrose Polycottonseedate, Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, C10 30 Cholesterol/Lanesterol Esters, Cyclodextrin, Butylene Glycol, Petrolatum, Polyethylene, PEG 14M, Tribehenin, Fragrance, Polyquaternium 10, Synthetic Beeswax, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA, L Menthol.

Old Formula Ingredients: Petrolatum, PEG-100, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocoamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Cyclodextrin, Butylene Glycol, PEG-14M, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Fragrance, Polyquarternium-10, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Propylparaben, Disodium-EDTA, Methylparaben, Sodium Magnesium/Diisobutylene Copolymer, Silica, BHT, Sodium Laurate.

Old Formula Ingredients: Petrolatum, Peg-100, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Cyclodextrin, Butylene Glycol, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Lauryl Glucoside, Peg-14M, Polyquaternium-10, Fragrance/Parfum, Sodium Chloride, Panthenol*, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Disodium Edta, Salicylic Acid***, Sodium Ma/Diisobutylene Copolymer, Tocopheryl Acetate**, Niacinamide, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract. *Provitamin/Provitamine B5, **Vitamin/Vitamine E , ***Beta Hydroxy/Be?Ta-Hydroxy.

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.

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Ageless Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

2 Comments

Product:  Today we are reviewing Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Ageless Daily Exfoliating Cleanser.  Please share your experiences with this product.

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

Cost: $6.99 for 5oz. ($1.40 per fluid ounce)  Price Category: Inexpensive

Sold By:  Aveeno and retailers everywhere; This product has been discontinued, perhaps due to a controversial ingredient.  There are still retailers with this on their shelves until the last of it is gone.

Container:  Plastic pump bottle with locking pump; Pump screws off

Description:  The Aveeno brand is readily available at retailers everywhere.  I have been using the Aveeno brand for decades and like some of their products.  This is not one of them.  I’m providing this review to shed some light on this cleanser, particularly one of its key ingredients, which I do not recommend or support.

Aveeno states on their website, “Our products feature exclusive ACTIVE NATURALS® ingredients, carefully selected from nature and uniquely formulated to deliver effective skin and hair care benefits. These ACTIVE NATURALS® ingredients undergo rigorous scientific testing to prove their safety and efficacy, so it’s no wonder our products are recommended by leading professionals.”

The company states this product, “visibly reduces the signs of aging” “with natural shiitake complex”, “Helps speed up the skin’s natural renewing process”.  There are other lofty claims as well.

Morning Review:  First off, I bought this cleanser by mistake.  I was traveling and needed something so I quickly ran into a drug store and picked up this cleanser.  I did not realize it was not fragrance free as the ingredients were hidden under a back label.  As soon as I pushed the pump for the first time, I sneezed and my nose began running like a faucet.  The amount of fragrance in this cleanser is so excessive it is overwhelming.  This has a very strong floral scent, so much so that you feel as if you’re being smothered by flowers while it is on your face.  I could not rinse this enough to get rid of the scent.  I also found this cleanser to be drying to my skin.

As far as the cleansing components, this is a typical cleanser with water, glycerin to make it feel silky, sodium laureth sulfate (surfactant), etc.  It is the fourth ingredient, polyethylene, that I take issue with.  This cleanser has microplastic beads in it to exfoliate your skin.  While the plastic in itself is not harmful to you, it is very damaging to the marine ecosystem and environment.  In December of 2013 the Marine Pollution Bulletin discussed the impact of these plastics.  During this research, “two national brands of facial cleansers containing polyethylene microbeads were sieved and analyzed using the SEM/EDS system to evaluate their texture and composition” and the damaging effects were discussed.

There are natural substances we can use to exfoliate our faces that don’t pollute our waterways and kill marine life in the process.  Regarding benefits from shiitake, the mushroom complex is the very last ingredient.  There is so little in this product I suspect it is just included for marketing purposes.  The concentration is not high enough to produce any visible change in your skin.  Considering the small amount of time a cleanser is on your skin, even at a higher concentration there would be little benefit.

Morning Rating=   1 star1 Star

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin felt dry, tight and itchy.   This cleanser effectively removes most makeup.   My makeup wipes only found small traces of makeup using just my hands.  (Apparently, the beads do work.)  You cannot get this product near your eyes so you will need to use a separate cleanser to remove eye makeup.  This is not a good cleanser to use with a cleansing brush.  The brush, in combination with the microplastic beads, may prove to be too harsh.

Overall Review:  Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Ageless Daily Exfoliating Cleanser is not a good cleanser for anyone, especially those with fragrance allergies and/or other sensitivities. Men definitely would not like this scent.  If you really like stinky products and don’t care about the environment, you may love this.

This cleanser is suitable for the following skin types: (Not for Dry or Sensitive skin)

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • Women who like heavy perfumes;
  • Oily;
  • Consistent;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Evening Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Average from Other Testers = 1 star1 Star;

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

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

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Ageless Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

Ingredients:  Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Polyethylene, Lauryl Glucoside, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Glycol Distearate, Laureth-4, Methylparaben, Fragrance, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Tetrasodium Edta, Algae Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Lentinus Edodes Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Stem Extract, May Also Contain: Sodium Hydroxide.

Formulated Without:  Oil, Soap.

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

Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum 813 RE9 Advanced

2 Comments

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.