Tag: Reviews

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Ageless Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

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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.

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.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

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Product:  Today’s we are reviewing Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover.  Is this product as effective as the more expensive brands?

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent

Cost:   $5.82 for 5.5 oz. ($1.06 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Inexpensive

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

Container:  Plastic bottle with screw-off cap

Description:   This is a clear liquid remover for all forms of eye makeup.  According to the manufacturer it is, “effective and gentle”, “removes even waterproof mascara” with “no oily residue”.  It also claims to be “Dermatologist Developed”.  This is a fragrance-free product.

I was first introduced to Neutrogena products as a teenager, so needless to say I’ve had a lot of experience with this brand.  (I haven’t been a teenager for a long time.)  The Neutrogena brand began in 1930 in Switzerland, came to the USA in the 1950’s and was acquired by Johnson & Johnson in 1994 when it became a worldwide brand.

I’m going to be putting some Neutrogena products through some comparison tests to see if they can perform as well as products costing many times more.

Everyone who wears eye makeup needs a good remover that doesn’t burn, sting, and leave an oily film on their eyes or skin.  The Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover, just like the Lancôme Bi-Facil, is a dual-phase product.  It contains a lipid layer (slippery-feeling cleansing layer) and a water layer.  The product must be shaken well prior to use to combine the two layers.  If you insert a cotton swap into the bottle without shaking first you will just get the oily-feeling lipid layer.  When the product is left standing still you can see the lipid layer rise to the top just as you will with an oil-and-vinegar salad dressing.  When shaken, the product changes from two clear liquid layers to one milky-colored liquid.

Morning Review:  I like to use this product with a sterile fresh cotton swab each time.  To keep your product sterile, don’t put your fingers on top of the bottle and keep it tightly capped when not in use.  A little goes a long way.  This remover does have a very slight oily feel to it, but the consistency is closer to water than oil.  There is almost no scent.  The primary ingredient that I smell is aloe vera.  This remover effectively removes all eye makeup, including waterproof mascara and gel eyeliner.  It does not burn or sting my eyes or make them water.  The remover is quickly absorbed into the skin and does not leave an oily residue.  It leaves the skin around my eyes feeling smooth.  I always rinse off any eye makeup remover prior to the application of skin-care and makeup products and I recommend you do the same.

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  I decided to really put this remover to a test.  In the morning I put on a heavy eye makeup complete with concealer, primer, multiple eye shadows, gel eyeliner, liquid eyeliner and waterproof mascara.  Several hours later I then removed the makeup from one eye with Lancôme Bi-Facil and the makeup from the other eye with the Neutrogena remover.  They both performed exactly the same.  It took the same amount of product to remove the makeup, which was two double-ended cotton swabs for each eye.  (If you have a problem with cotton fibers getting into your eyes, you can use disposable foam applicators instead of cotton swabs or you can put a little remover onto a makeup wipe.)  I did not have to tug or scrub to remove the makeup.  They both worked effectively at removing all traces of eye makeup including stubborn and difficult-to-remove products.   My makeup wipes did not find any traces of eye makeup.  The skin around my eyes did not feel tight or irritated, and in fact, it felt soft and hydrated.

The primary difference was that my nose was running due to the fragrance in the Lancôme Bi-Facil and that does not happen when I just use the Neutrogena remover.  Also, the Neutrogena absorbed into my skin faster than the Lancôme Bi-Facil did.  Since I rinse it off anyway, this is not much of a factor, but there was slightly less oily residue with the Neutrogena.

Overall Review:  Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover is an excellent eye makeup remover for all skin types and is gentle enough for those with contact lenses.  This is a good product to use if you have fragrance allergies.  This remover is suitable for both women and men.  It is very affordable and readily available at most retailers.

If you see negative reviews for this product and complaints that it is too oily, I suspect that is due to the fact that the users did not shake it prior to application.  The layers must be combined for the product to work effectively.

This remover 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 = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 4 stars4 Stars – Excellent.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

Ingredients:  Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera), Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Chloride, Dipropylene Glycol, Poloxamer 182, Allantoin (Comfrey Root), Tripotassium EDTA, Benzalkonium Chloride Solution, Glycerin, Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus) Fruit Extract, Potassium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate.

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

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Product:  Today’s product is Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover.  Does this product do all that it claims?

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

Cost:   $15.00 1.7 oz. ($8.82 per fluid ounce)  Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Lancôme; Sephora; Major department stores everywhere

Container:  Plastic bottle with child-proof screw-off lid (push down while turning)

Description:   This is a clear liquid remover for all forms of eye makeup.  According to the manufacturer it is, “Gentle enough for sensitive eyes” and “Ophthalmologist-tested”.  This is not a fragrance-free product and parfum (fragrance) is the third from the last ingredient.

Before I begin the review I must state that I am not now, nor have I ever been, a fan of Lancôme products.  Not because they don’t perform well (they do), but because I don’t support some of their ingredients, especially the high concentration of fragrance and unnecessary chemical additives in their products.  I decided to buy several Lancôme products to review because they have such a cult following.  I wanted to really put them through numerous tests for quality and effectiveness to ascertain what others see in these products that I do not.

Everyone needs a good eye makeup remover that doesn’t burn, sting, and leave an oily film on their eyes.  The Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover is a bi-phase formula.  It contains a lipid layer (oily cleansing layer) and a water layer.  Simply put, this is similar to an oil-and-vinegar salad dressing.  The ingredients will separate when left standing.  You must shake the product well to temporarily combine the ingredients.  When shaken, the liquid will change from two clear liquids to one milky-looking liquid.  Oil and water are not miscible (don’t mix) but can form emulsions when shaken or stirred together.  (Enough for the chemistry lesson.)

Morning Review:  I like to use this product with a sterile fresh cotton swab each time.  A little goes a long way.  This remover does have a very slight oily feel to it, but the consistency is closer to water than oil.  There is a light floral scent.  This remover effectively removes all eye makeup, including waterproof mascara and gel eyeliner.  It does not burn or sting my eyes or make them water, but the fragrance additive makes my nose run.  Personally, I do not want fragrance anywhere on my face, especially my eyes.  The remover is quickly absorbed into the skin and does not leave an oily residue.  I always rinse off any eye makeup remover prior to the application of skin-care and makeup products but you don’t have to rinse this off if you don’t want to.

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars for effectiveness, 2 stars2 Stars for making my nose run = 2+ stars2.5 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day the skin around my eyes does not feel tight or irritated.  This product effectively removes all eye makeup including stubborn and difficult-to-remove products.   My makeup wipes do not find any traces of eye makeup.

Overall Review:  Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover is a very good eye makeup remover for all skin types and is gentle enough for those with contact lenses.  This is not an appropriate product for those with fragrance allergies.   This remover is suitable for both women and men who wear eye makeup.  (Yes, more and more men are wearing eye makeup now.)  My only negative is the fragrance additive.  Also, it is on the more expensive end.  After using it many times, I do not like this remover nearly as well as my usual fragrance-free eye makeup remover which costs less.  (Please see the review for the competitor’s product here.)

I have sensitive eyes and this product does not bother me, but some people are hyper-sensitive and Lancôme does make Effacil, a gentler product, which does not contain the lipid layer.  The primary difference between the two products is that Bi-Facil will remove waterproof mascara or gel eyeliner and Effacil will not.

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive (not if your sensitivity is fragrances);
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2+ stars2.5 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2+ stars2.5 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

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

Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Ingredients:  Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isohexadecane, Sodium Chloride, Poloxamer 184, Hexylene Glycol, Dipotassium Phosphate, Benzyl Alochol, Potassium Phosphate, Quaternium-15, Benzalkonium Chloride, Parfum, Citronellol, Geraniol.

 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.

 

Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Serum

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Product:  Today I am reviewing Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Serum.  Please share your thoughts and comments about your experience with this product.  I like this one.  Do you agree?

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

Cost:  $35.00 for .4 oz. ($87.50 per ounce)  Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Peter Thomas Roth; Sephora, Ulta; QVC

Container:  Glass bottle with glass-tipped dropper

Description:  Peter Thomas Roth (PTR) Retinol Fusion PM Serum is a concentrated time-released microencapsulated vitamin A (1.5% Retinol) product.  This is a fragrance-free, oil-free product.  It also contains squalane (derived from sugar cane, not sharks), vitamins C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) and E (Tocopherol).  This serum is intended to be used at night following cleansing of the skin and prior to the application of heavier night creams or moisturizers.  It is supposed to assist with cell turnover through vitamin A, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with an assortment of other chemical compounds.

All Retinol products are light and air sensitive.  Try to keep the bottle in a dark place at room temperature and expose it to as little air as possible.  Also, try to use up the contents prior to the expiration date for maximum effectiveness of the ingredients.

About Serums:  Since they were first introduced into the market about a decade ago, I have been a fan of serums.  I don’t like anything that feels thick or heavy on my skin and serums are much lighter than creams and thus easily absorbed into the skin.  I also find that the lighter consistency does not clog my pores and results in fewer irritations and breakouts than heavier products.  They also contain a higher concentration of effective ingredients so it generally  takes less product and time to produce positive results than thicker creams.

Morning Review:  Okay, so why am I providing a morning review for a product intended to be used at night?  Because after much trial and error, this is how I prefer to use this product.  The PTR Retinol PM Serum feels like a very light, almost watery oil, although it does not contain any oil.  It has almost no scent.  Because the consistency is almost like water, use it one drop at a time rather than a dropper full at a time, as it will just run all over the place and you will waste your product.

I like to use the serum in the morning following cleansing and toning and prior to the application of sunscreen, moisturizer or makeup.  It refines my pores, leaves my skin with a silky texture, and everything glides on easier and better following the application of the serum.  I also use this on my neck.  I actually find that the first ingredient, Cyclopentasiloxane (a silicone derivative), makes this product an effective makeup primer.  I have tried this on many clients and they agree.  This serum has never irritated my sensitive skin.  My clients have not reported any sensitivity issues.

Caution:  If you have never used a Retinol (vitamin A) product before, please only use this at night to start with.  If you have any tingling or burning, only use it every other night until you build up a tolerance for it.  Some people are highly sensitive to vitamin A.  Also, vitamin A can make your skin more susceptible to burning so that is why it is recommended for use at night.  You must wear an effective UVA/UVB sunscreen whenever you are using any kind of Retinol product to protect your skin from burning and photoaging.  I will provide an in-depth analysis of effective sunscreens when we get to those product reviews.

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin does not feel tight.  This serum helps to keep my skin feeling soft and smooth throughout the day.  For an added bonus to your skin, you may apply the serum following cleansing and prior to the application of any other night creams.  You can use this on your neck and décolleté, too.  I don’t like a lot of different products for the face, eyes and neck, so this works for me all over.

Caution:  This product should NOT be used in conjunction with any other products containing vitamins A and/or C.  The combination of the PTR Retinol Fusion Serum with other anti-aging products would probably prove too harsh and may lead to irritation and/or sensitivity issues.

Overall Review:  Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Serum is a very good Retinol product.  It does improve the texture of skin and makes it feel smoother.  I also like the fact that it makes my pores appear smaller which improves the application of makeup.  As far as removing lines and wrinkles, I have not seen any improvement in deep or fine lines and/or wrinkles.

This serum is suitable for the following skin types:

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

Please note:  If you decide to buy this product I would advise you to stay away from discount re-sellers such as those found on Amazon or eBay, as there are some sellers that are marketing counterfeit products and this is a popular product that is frequently sold as authentic but is, in fact, fake.  If someone is selling this product for 50% less than the authorized retailers, you should be suspect of the authenticity.  If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  You don’t run any such risk when purchasing from an authorized retailer such as the ones at the top of this review.

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.)

Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Serum

Ingredients:  Cyclopentasiloxane, Squalane, Retinol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Water (Aqua), Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Lechitin, Bisabolol, Alcohol.

 Formulated Without:  Artificial fragrance, oil, artificial color, dye.

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

 

Sudden Change 3 Minute Under-Eye Firming Serum

11 Comments

Product:  Today’s product is a little unusual and it has some strange properties.  It is Sudden Change 3 Minute Under-Eye Firming Serum.

Overall Rating =  2.25 Stars – Just okay

Cost:  $13.95 for .23 oz. ($58.7 per ounce)  Price Category:  Mid-range

Sold By:  Sudden Change and retailers everywhere (Walgreen’s, Wal-mart, etc.)

Container:  Glass bottle with glass-tipped dropper and outer paper/plastic carton

Description:   Sudden Change 3 Minute Under-Eye Firming Serum is a temporary-fix, fragrance-free tightening product.  It is intended for use under the eyes to smooth and tighten bags or lax skin.  It can also be used on other parts of the face for temporary tightening.  This is a difficult product to rate, as people have a love/hate relationship with it and I agree for many reasons.  I even considered not reviewing it due to the difficulty.

I have been using this product for many years and I keep several bottles in my makeup kit.  I use it for creating special effects, as a thick layer of it once dried, will cause the skin to have a cracked or peeling look.  It is very useful for horror or zombie makeups.  I also use it on stage performers where no one is close enough to scrutinize the makeup.  Okay, so you don’t want to look like a zombie and you’re not on stage; you want to look younger, rested and attractive, right?

As far as the effectiveness for removing lines, wrinkles, puffiness or dark circles under the eyes, let’s begin our review and discussion.  Depending upon your particular concern, this serum may or may not prove beneficial.  It will do nothing to improve or camouflage dark circles, so if that is your only eye issue, this is not going to help you.

Morning Review:  The  Sudden Change serum instructions state, “Apply to clean, dry skin.  Works with or without makeup.”  I disagree with those instructions.  The problem with this product is that if you use it by itself, or you use too much, it will dry with a white residue that will be obvious and will crack and flake as you move your facial muscles (i.e. speaking, eating, laughing, etc.).  You will feel a tightening wherever you apply the serum.  The second ingredient in this serum following water is “Serum Albumin”, more commonly known as egg white.  If you have never gotten egg white on your skin, crack one open, apply a small drop of egg white to your face, and you will experience the effects of this product.  (Don’t get it near your mouth or eat it; that can be dangerous.)

Since I have used this product for years, I have tried it every way there is to use it:  by itself; mixed with water; mixed with foundations; mixed with lotions; mixed with creams; mixed with serums; etc.  This is definitely a product that has a learning curve and requires some experimentation to achieve positive results.

If you use this serum by itself on clean, dry skin it will produce the most dramatic tightening results.  It will also produce the most obvious white residue, so what is the point?  The company claims that if you have white residue, tap a drop of water on that area, rub it in and let it dry again.  True, the water will remove the white residue; unfortunately the water will also reduce the tightening effect, which is the whole reason you used the product in the first place.

The company recommends two drops of product under each eye.  Two drops is way too much and you will be left with the unsightly white residue when it dries.  I find that one drop is sufficient for both eyes.  More is not better with this product.

Also, if you have dry, dead skin under your eyes, it may peel off when you apply this product.  The Sudden Change serum works best if you have recently exfoliated your skin.

In my experience, the only way to effectively use this product is to mix it with something.  If you have dry skin, it is best to mix a drop of under eye cream with the Sudden Change serum and apply it that way.  If you use another serum and/or moisturizer, those products need to be fully absorbed into your skin before you apply the Sudden Change serum.  If you try applying those on top of the Sudden Change serum, the tightening effect will be completely eliminated.

Also, mixing one drop with a liquid foundation will minimize the white residue issue and will produce a slight tightening effect.  This is how I typically use this product.  If you use a mineral powder foundation, the Sudden Change serum probably will not work for you.  Powders tend to crease on top of this product.

During my many trials, I also found that I have better results on the upper eyelids than I do under the eyes.  If you have hooded eyes, you might try a drop of this before you put on your eye makeup.  Eyeshadow will camouflage any residue and it should not be an issue for you above your eyes.

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my bags and wrinkles were back, just as they were before I applied the Sudden Change serum.   The company claims the effect lasts 8 hours.  I have not found that it lasts nearly that long.  If you just want to look better for a photograph or for a short time, this product can be useful.

The Sudden Change serum has a drying effect on the skin on its own as it does contain SD Alcohol 40.  If you have really dry skin, as I do, you will need to moisturize the application areas after removing this product.

Overall Review:  The Sudden Change 3 Minute Under-Eye Firming Serum does tighten skin.  The problem is that it is a difficult product to use to achieve positive results.  You’ll most likely have to experiment mixing it with different products to combat the unsightly white residue and flakiness.  Most of my clients got frustrated with it and gave up before they found a method that worked for them.

I’d like to hear your experience and results with this product.  If you have used this serum successfully, please share your results.

Sudden Change 3 Minute Under-Eye Firming Serum is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry (will need to moisturize);
  • Sensitive;
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 2 stars2 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Overall Rating =  2.25 Stars – Just okay.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Sudden Change 3 Minute Under-Eye Firming Serum BoxSudden Change 3 Minute Under-Eye Firming Serum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients:  Water, Serum Albumin, SD Alcohol 40, Dimethicone Copolyol, Hyaluronic Acid, Dextran Sulfate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Quaternium-15, Methylparaben.

 Formulated Without:  Artificial fragrance, Artificial color, Dyes.

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

Tatcha POLISHED Classic Rice Enzyme Powder

Product:  Today’s product is another product from the Japanese company that supposedly features age-old traditions from Geisha.  It is Tatcha POLISHED Classic Rice Enzyme Powder.

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

Cost:  $65 60g / 2.1 oz. ($30.95 per ounce)  Price Category:  Expensive

Sold By:  Tatcha, QVC and Sephora

Container:  Heavy plastic double-layer jar with screw-off lid, tissue wrap, outer decorative paper carton.  (Those of you who have followed my beauty and makeup tips newsletter know that I am not a fan of jars due to the potential for contamination.)

Description:  Tatcha POLISHED Classic Rice Enzyme Powder is the coordinating exfoliating powder I mentioned a few days ago when I reviewed the Tatcha PURE One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil.  This powder is a *physical exfoliation product.  This a fragrance-free Japanese rice powder that you mix either with the Tatcha oil or with water to exfoliate your skin.  You can control the amount of abrasiveness by using more or less liquid in combination with the powder.  The greater the powder-to-liquid ratio, the grainier and more abrasive it will be.  In reverse, the less powder-to-liquid ratio, the gentler the texture will be.

 *(For a description of physical exfoliation and the three different methods to exfoliate your skin, please see my discussion on the ExfoliKate page.)

Morning Review:  I used this product many times before posting this review.  I have used it with the Tatcha cleansing oil, with water, and have experimented using it in conjunction with other oils and liquids, as well.  I have also used this product on female and male clients.

The rice powder is white (naturally) and the texture is slightly gritty.  It is not as gritty as sugar or salt, but there is a definite texture to the powder.  There is a slight chemical scent similar to wet paint in its dry powder form.  Once you mix the powder with water the scent changes to more of a nutty scent.  This is a fragrance-free product so the scent is naturally occurring due to the ingredients themselves.  If you have asthma, be careful of breathing in or ingesting any powder products, as they could cause breathing difficulties.  (When in doubt, always consult a physician before using any new product.)

When using the product with oil, I first put a pump of the oil into my palm, then I sprinkle about a half of a teaspoon of the powder onto the oil, mix them together with my finger and then apply to my face with a gentle circular motion.  If you use too much powder, the oil/powder mixture gets very thick and you may need a couple of drops of water to thin it.  When I use the powder with water, I first wet my face with warm water, sprinkle the powder into my palm, add a few drops of water to my palm to make a paste, and then apply to my face.

The Tatcha powder does a very effective job of exfoliating my skin.  It leaves my face feeling soft, smooth and hydrated without any harsh abrasives or chemicals.  My sensitive skin does not feel irritated.  Please note that because I have sensitive skin, I do not rub vigorously, but very gently.  Please execute care when using any physical exfoliate and do not get too enthusiastic with scrubbing your face.

Caution:  I do not recommend using this, or any physical exfoliate, with a cleansing brush.  The doubly exfoliating effects would be too harsh.  I also do not recommend physical exfoliates for anyone with Rosacea.

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin still feels smooth; it does not feel tight or irritated.   This powder effectively removes all types of makeup.   My makeup wipes do not find any traces of makeup, especially if used in conjunction with the oil.  Unlike most physical exfoliates that are intended for use once or twice a week only, the Tatcha powder can be used every day or even twice a day, if desired.  I personally use this as an occasional exfoliate or whenever I need to remove heavy amounts of makeup.

Overall Review:  Tatcha POLISHED Classic Rice Enzyme Powder is an excellent product.  Once again, the only downside is the cost, and the packaging.  The bottles are heavy and don’t travel well.  The Tatcha products come in beautiful, elaborate packaging.  Maybe that is a bonus to some of you, but I don’t buy products for fancy bottles, tissue liners and boxes.  I buy them for the contents inside.  I suppose it makes an impressive gift, but what other purpose does that serve?  If the company would package the product in less expensive containers and lower the price, this brand would be a lot more affordable for the average consumer.  They could still offer the fancy bottles in a gift edition for those who want to spend the extra money.  (Hello, Tatcha, are you listening?)

Please note:  I first purchased this years ago when there was only one formula and I have continued to use the initial “Classic” formula.  The product is available in 4 formulas from the Tatcha website:  Classic for Combination and Normal Skin; Gentle for Dry Skin; Deep for Oily Skin; and Soothing for Sensitive Skin.  The next time I order this I’m going to try the Soothing formulation and I’ll provide a comparison review to note the differences.

Skin Types:  Tatcha POLISHED Classic Rice Enzyme Powder is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive (but not Rosacea);
  • 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 POLISHED Classic Rice Enzyme Powder

Classic Ingredients:  Oryza Sativa (rice) Powder, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Potassium Myristate, Cellulose, Water, Papain (papaya Extract), Camellia Sinensis (green Tea) Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Conchiolin (pearl) Protein, Oryza Sativa (rice) Bran, Algae Extract, Glycerin, Dextrin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol.

Formulated without:  Mineral Oil, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates.

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

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

Product:  Today we are discussing Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment.

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

Cost:  $85 for 2 oz ($42.50 per ounce)  Price Category:  Expensive

Description:  ExfoliKate is another widely-reviewed beauty product that most people rave about.  This is my first review for a dedicated exfoliate rather than a daily cleanser that may or may not also have exfoliating properties.  This is intended to be used in addition to a daily cleanser once or twice a week.  This is not a daily cleansing product.

Exfoliation is an important step in any beauty regime.  Your body is constantly producing new skin cells and sloughing off the old, dead cells.  The average life of a skin cell is about a month.  Exfoliation can be accomplished in one of three manners:

  • Chemical exfoliation – A chemical substance will dissolve the outer skin cells revealing new skin beneath. These chemicals, typically lactic or fruit acids, do not contain any physical abrasives such as scrubbing granules or grains.  Depending upon the strength of the chemicals only the top layer of the epidermis will be affected, or in the case of a chemical peel from a physician, the penetration will be much deeper.
  • Physical exfoliation – An exfoliate will contain some sort of physical material that literally scratches or scrubs the dead skin cells away just as sandpaper refinishes furniture. This includes salts, scrubs, sugars, loofahs, brushes, and rough washcloths.
  • Mechanical physical exfoliation – This will be accomplished by tools that produce vibration and/or suction in combination with an abrasive element. They typically utilize diamond-dust or similar implements that remove the dead skin.  These treatments are usually performed by a dermatologist or esthetician, although there are home units that can accomplish this task and I will be reviewing one in the future.

Personally, I prefer chemical exfoliation to physical exfoliation.  Harsh scrubbing granules or grains typically irritate my sensitive skin, however they do work wonders for cleaning pores.  I also find that most people get too enthusiastic with abrasive scrubs and tend to scrub too hard which can actually damage your skin.

The reason exfoliation is so important is that any product that you put on top of your skin will not penetrate and produce effective results if you have dead skin cells on the surface.  You are wasting your money on expensive serums, moisturizers, and anti-aging products if you are not also exfoliating on a regular basis.

Morning Review:  ExfoliKate has a very strong, spicy scent.  Reviewing the ingredients I’m assuming this is due to bergamot fruit oil (found in Earl Grey tea) and cinnamomum cassia leaf (cinnamon) oil.  It is a dark army-green kind of color and is pretty gross looking.  (Who cares if it works, right?)  ExfoliKate contains both a chemical exfoliating ingredient, lactic acid, and a physical exfoliating ingredient, silica.  It definitely feels scratchy and abrasive on the back of my hand.

Due to my extremely sensitive skin I began gently with this product and only used a small amount on half of my face to test for any negative reactions before slathering it all over my entire face.  The cinnamon oil causes a slight tingling and burning sensation.  It definitely left my skin feeling smoother and my skin does not feel irritated.  I always worry if something is tingling or burning that my skin is screaming, “danger, danger”.  So far, so good.

Morning Rating =  3 stars3 Stars

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin did not feel tight and I did not have any allergic reactions or breakouts on the side where I used the scrub.   I decided to use it on my entire face the second time.  This cleanser effectively removes all makeup.   My makeup wipes did not find any traces of makeup.   I would avoid the eye area with this cleanser.  This should be used after your have removed your eye makeup.  I caution you…this is a not an appropriate product to use with a cleansing brush.  The combination of the two would be too harsh for any type of skin on your face.

Prior to posting this review I tried this product several more times on myself and others and no one experienced any sensitivities or negative reactions.

Overall Review:  Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment is a very good, although expensive, exfoliating scrub for almost all skin types.   Warning:  This would not be advisable if you have Rosacea.  Anyone with Rosacea should stay away from any type of abrasive products which can further irritate your already-inflamed skin.  Please note that if you have extremely thin, delicate or overly-sensitive skin, this product may be too harsh for you.  There is a gentler formula for sensitive skin that I have not tried.  The next time I purchase this product I will try the gentle formula as it may be more appropriate for my extremely sensitive skin.  Perhaps I won’t experience the mild burning with that formula.  Also, I prefer an exfoliant without any abrasive ingredients.

This scrub is suitable for both women and men.  My male tester did not find the scent offensive.  He said it reminded him of sandalwood incense.  Most men naturally exfoliate their faces every day by shaving, but they still need to exfoliate the areas they do not shave.

My testers with normal skin and dry skin really liked this and said they would buy it.

Exfolikate is suitable for the following skin types:

  • All ethnicities;
  • All ages;
  • All sexes;
  • Dry;
  • Sensitive (not hypersensitive or those with Rosacea)
  • Consistent;
  • Oily;
  • Combination.

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

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

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating TreatmentKate Somerville ExfoliKate on SkinKate Somerville ExfoliKate on Face

Ingredients:  Water/Aqua/Eau, Lactic Acid, Silica, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Pectin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit, Ceteareth-20, Cetyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Salicylic Acid, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Alcohol Denat., Sorbic Acid, Cinnamal, Honey/Mel/Miel, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Eugenol, Potassium Sorbate, Limonene, Linalool, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Beta-Carotene, Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Bromelain, Papain, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil, Acetic Acid, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Geranium Maculatum Oil, Aniba Rosaeodora (Rosewood) Wood Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil.

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

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub

Product:  St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub

Overall Rating = 1+ stars1.875 Stars – Terrible to Just Okay

Cost:   $4.79 for 6 oz. (.80 per ounce)  Price Category:  Inexpensive

Sold By:  Walgreen’s and major retailers everywhere

Container:  Flip-top plastic tube

Description:  This is an Allure magazine Best of Beauty Award Winner.  (I have no idea why.)  This is described as “THE multi award winning apricot scrub that deeply exfoliates for clean, smooth and glowing skin, from America’s No. 1 scrub brand*.  (*Based on 52 week unit sales ending 7.30.16)”

Morning Review:  The first thing that hit me when I opened the cap was the scent.  The St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub has a strong fruity, sweet and flowery smell.  My nose immediately started running.  I wet my face and massaged the grainy cream onto my skin.  The crushed walnuts were very abrasive feeling and were much too harsh for my sensitive skin.  My face felt irritated.  This will definitely provide deep exfoliation if you have clogged pores.  Even after rinsing I could still smell the strong perfume.

Warning:  Please do not use this or any abrasive cleanser if you have Rosacea.  Please consult with your dermatologist before using any exfoliating product.

Morning Rating =  1 star1 Star

Evening Review:  At the end of the day my skin still felt slightly irritated.   I used very little product the second time with more water to try and achieve a gentler cleansing experience.  This cleanser effectively removes all face makeup.   My makeup wipes did not find any traces of makeup except for eye makeup.   You cannot get this product near your eyes.  (Crushed walnuts in your eyes would not be a good thing.)  You will need to use a separate cleanser to remove your eye makeup.  This is definitely not a good cleanser to use with a cleansing brush.  That would be too harsh and irritating for any kind of skin.

My tester with normal skin who likes perfumes said it was okay and it didn’t seem too rough for her.  My male tester said, “It stunk so much I didn’t want that on my face” and he didn’t want to try it.

Overall Review:  I would not put this on my face again, nor would I recommend it to clients.  I feel that harsh abrasive products are unnecessary and can cause damage to your skin.  I would only use this on the heels of my feet or areas with thicker skin that are not easily damaged.  It is effective to exfoliate rough, dead, calloused or dry skin on areas such as feet, elbows or knees.  Also, I would not mind the heavy scent so much on my feet, but I do not want that near my nose or eyes.  This may appeal to you if you like smelling like a bowl of fruit salad.

This is not a very good cleanser unless you are just looking for something that will deep clean, exfoliate and scrub your skin; your skin is not easily irritated; and you like heavy perfumes.  Definitely stay away from this one if you have fragrance allergies and/or sensitive, delicate skin.

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub is suitable for the following skin types:

  • Consistent, Combination or Oily skin with no sensitivities to fragrance  or harsh ingredients
  • NOT for Sensitive skin or anyone with Rosacea
  • NOT for those with fragrance allergies

RATINGS REPORT: 

Morning Rating = 1 star1 Star;

Evening Rating = 1 star1 Star;

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

Value Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Overall Rating = 1+ stars1.875 Stars – Terrible to Just Okay.  (Please review the About 365 Cosmetic Reviews page for the rating info.)

Please note that the Walgreen’s website has a photograph of the old formula from 2013 and shows the ingredients from the old formula.  I have posted photos of the old formula and the new formula.  I have also included both lists of ingredients.  This review is for the new formula.  I have noted when reading reviews from other sites that many people that used the old and new formulas are not happy with the new formula.

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub 2016

St Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub New Formula 2016

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub 2013

St Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub Old Formula 2013

 Ingredients New 2016 Formula (from St. Ives’ website):  Water (Aqua, Eau), Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Meal, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Acetate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Polysorbate 60, Ceteareth-20, Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Fragrance (Parfum), PPG-2 Methyl Ether, Phenethyl Alcohol, Limonene, Linalool, Methylisothiazolinone, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract.

Ingredients Old 2013 Formula (from Walgreen’s website):  Water, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Meal, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Peg-100 Stearate, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract, Cetyl Acetate, Polysorbate 60, Ceteareth-20, Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol, Carbomer, PPG-2 Methyl Ether, Phenethyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Methylisothiazolinone, Fragrance, Titanium dioxide.

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