Tag: Tricks

Step By Step Instructions On How to Apply False Eyelashes (Fake Lashes) Like A Pro

Step By Step Instructions On How to  Apply False Eyelashes (Fake Lashes) Like A Pro — I previously reviewed my favorite brand of strip eyelashes, Kiss.  I received lots of messages from people telling me that they had never been successful in getting them on, so I decided to try and help with some easy application tips and tricks.  Also, all of the false eyelash application tutorials on other sites and YouTube provide information that is just plain wrong, and even dangerous.  I would say that I have seen more incorrect and harmful information related to false eyelashes than any other beauty product.

I love false lashes because nothing can add drama and definition to your eyes like beautiful flirty lashes. Whether you have no lashes or yours just need a little help, there is the perfect pair out there for you.  I don’t know what else can make you look so much better for under $5.00.

Some people are intimidated by the application process, but it really is quite simple once you get the hang of it.  I can actually apply false eyelashes in the same amount of time as two coats of mascara, so if you are new to the world of fake lashes, give it a few tries and in no time, they’ll be quick and easy for you.  Also, if you put them on correctly, they will stay on without any worries.  (I don’t recommend this, but I have even fallen asleep with them on and worn them for a couple of days without them coming off.)

These application tips, tricks and instructions are for removable strip upper lashes, not eyelash extensions or individual lashes.

Warnings:

  • If you have never worn false eyelashes before, please be advised that some lash adhesives contain latex. If you have a latex allergy, make sure you buy only latex-free glue.  (You can message me and I’ll recommend some good brands for you.)
  • If you are sensitive to dyes, buy the white or clear adhesive and not the black. I use the white because of my hypersensitivity.

Step By Step Instructions On How to  Apply False Eyelashes (Fake Lashes) Like A Pro:

  • Sterilize your hands before beginning the eyelash application.  Eye infections are not only ugly, but extremely dangerous.  Your eyes are precious and priceless, so take caution when applying eye makeup.
  • Begin by curling your natural lashes with an eyelash curler.  (If you heat the curler slightly with a blow dryer it will work even better but be careful and don’t get it too hot.)
  • Keep your eyelash curler clean, sterilized, and replace the rubber strip every few months.
  • Apply all of your other eye makeup first–primer, eye shadows, eyeliner, and apply mascara to your lower lashes only.
  • If you apply the false lashes before your other eye makeup, you’re likely to get eye shadow on them and then you may knock them off when trying to clean the fallout.
  • If you are a first-time user, synthetic lashes are stiffer than natural human-hair lashes and they will be easier for you to practice with, but they won’t look as natural. A cheap, thick, dramatic synthetic pair is the best thing to practice with until you get the hang of it.
  • Remove the eyelash from the tray from the outer corner moving inward.
  • Measure the eyelash to see if it is too wide for the width of your eye and needs to be trimmed.
  • If it needs to be trimmed, trim from the outer edge, not the inner edge.  (The outer edge will be closer to your temple and the inner edge will be closer to your nose.)
  • If the lashes need to be trimmed, sterilize the scissors first that you are going to use.  (I like to use a very small pair of cuticle or embroidery scissors that I keep sterilized and only use for lashes.)  If you don’t have any scissors, you can sterilize some nail clippers.
  • Bend the eyelash to match the curvature of your eye. (Move them back and forth like a Slinky to get them to bend.)  Eliminating this step is what gets most people in trouble and the lashes don’t look right or the ends pop up because they are too straight.
  • If the lashes are synthetic, feel stiff and won’t bend to match your eye shape, place them back onto the tray and gently heat them with a hair dryer on low heat for about 30 seconds.  This will make them much more flexible.
  • Apply glue with a sterile toothpick, not from the tube.
  • If you apply glue from the tube, you will get too much glue on the eyelash.
  • Use as little glue as possible.
  • Let the glue dry for about 15-30 seconds before applying. (depends upon brand and thickness)
  • Don’t blow on the lash to dry it; your breath contains bacteria.
  • It is easier if you look down in a mirror and place the false lashes on your eyelid in a downward motion rather than coming straight in to your eyelid.
  • Apply the lash from the inner corner where your lashes begin to the outer corner.
  • Don’t get the lashes too close to your tear ducts.
  • Place the false lashes on the edge of the eyelid next to your natural lashes.
  • Don’t glue the fake lashes onto your natural lashes.  Doing so may pull out some of your own natural lashes when you remove the false lashes and you want to avoid that at all costs.
  • If your eyes are downturned, you can place the outer edge of the lash just above your natural lash line to give the eyes more of an upturned look.
  • After application gently press the lash onto the skin to secure the adhesion.
  • You can sterilize the blunt end of a pair of tweezers to press the lashes to your eyelid.
  • If you don’t have any tweezers, you can use the stick of a clean cotton swab to press the false lashes to your lid.  Make sure to remove the cotton ball at the end first or you will end up with cotton fibers stuck to your lashes. (That won’t look or feel good.)
  • Blend your lashes into your own with a dry spoolie or a mascara made for false lashes. (I like Ardell Lash Magic and I wrote an in-depth review of it if you want to learn more.)
  • Preferably, don’t use regular mascara on your false eyelashes.
  • If you do use regular mascara on your false lashes, make sure it is a water-based formula.
  • If you use waterproof mascara on your false lashes they will only be good for one use.
  • Once the lashes are on and the glue has dried, you may need to touch up your eyeliner.
  • When it is time to remove them, carefully lift up the outer edge and peel them off in the direction from your temple to your nose.
  • Store them on the tray and in the package that they came in for re-use.
  • Carefully remove the old adhesive before applying new adhesive.

If you have never tried false eyelashes and don’t wear a lot of makeup, begin with a natural look and don’t get frustrated.  It takes a few tries to get the routine down.  I can now apply them start to finish in about a minute each.

I hope you found these Step By Step Instructions On How to  Apply False Eyelashes (Fake Lashes) Like A Pro helpful.  If you are still having trouble, message me and I can help.

Give it a try and go get glamorous!

Step By Step Instructions On How to Apply False Eyelashes (Fake Lashes) Like A Pro

Eyes Before and After False Eyelashes

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

Product:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner.  Does IT perform as well as IT is advertised?

Overall Rating = 2+ stars4.25 Stars for Effectiveness – 2 Stars for Issues = 2.25 Stars – Just Okay

Cost: $22 for .17 oz. ($129.41 per ounce)  Price Category: Expensive

Sold By:  IT Cosmetics; QVC; Ulta.

Container: Plastic automatic twist-up pencil, removable cap, sharpener, outer carton.

Description:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is a waterproof gel eyeliner in a pencil form as opposed to a little pot.  This eyeliner requires an eye makeup remover to effectively take all of it off.

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is a fragrance-free product suitable for those with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.

Warning:  You have probably seen or heard of this brand from QVC, a TV shopping network, or from the Guthey-Renker infomercial.  A word of advice… if you do decide to give this brand a try, I recommend purchasing from QVC or Ulta.  If you fall for the infomercial like I did, you’ll be in for a rude awakening.  IT Cosmetics advertises a $39.95 (5-piece) or $49.95 (7-piece) offer, but when the shipment arrives, your credit card has been billed $119.00.  Nowhere are you informed that buying the initial offer also signs you up for an automatic shipment program and other membership charges you did not agree to.  Then you have to go through the hassle of refuting charges, you’re out shipping fees, etc.  Okay, you have been warned.

Claims:  The company states, “IT’s eye opening! Waterproof automatic pencil infused with skin loving hydrolyzed silk, collagen, peptides and anti-oxidants.”

Discussion:  Eyeliners come in the following formulas and they each have their pros, cons, and various uses:

  • Dry cake that you add water to
  • Wax-based wooden pencil that you sharpen
  • Wax-based automatic pencil that you twist up
  • Water-based liquid eyeliner
  • Waterproof liquid eyeliner
  • Cream in a pan or a pot
  • Gel in a pot
  • Gel in an automatic pencil that you twist up (IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner )

I immediately became a fan of gels when they were introduced over a decade ago.  A gel goes on like a cream, but then after one to two minutes, it dries and sets making it very long lasting.  At least that is true for dry to consistent skin.  Users with very oily skin may not have such great results.  Sadly, oily skin is not a friend to most types of eye makeup.

Please Note:  I will be posting an in-depth discussion of the various types of eyeliners and how to select the right type for your needs on the Help page.  Please stay tuned for that post.  If you want to know when updates are posted, please tell us in the  Comments section below.

Morning Review:  This is a difficult product for me to review.  Read on and you’ll understand why.  The first time I used IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner it went on like a dream.  I found the formula to be smooth, the color a nice deep black, and once it dried it seemed to be budge proof.  Before it dries, you can smudge it if you choose for a smoky look, or you can leave the line intact for a sharper look.

Had I only used it once and then written a review, my review would have given it 4 or even 5 stars.  Thankfully, I used this many times (or attempted to), before offering this review.  Otherwise, I would definitely be going back to revise my rating.

Evening Review:  After several hours IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner did not smudge, fade, flake or cause any irritation issues.  I used an eye makeup remover designed for waterproof makeup and it came off easily.  Sounds great, right?

So, what are the problems with IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner?

  • Even though I kept the product tightly capped and even stored it in the original box, after only two weeks it began to dry out and went from a smooth application to dry and tugging on my eyelids.
  • After one month the eyeliner was so dried out that it was unusable.
  • In order to get rid of the dry exterior, the pencil needs to be sharpened after every couple of uses, which wastes a lot of product (that is when you can actually get it to sharpen).
  • The built-in sharpener (in the end) that comes with the eyeliner causes product loss and breakage. As if that isn’t bad enough, the IT Cosmetics website offers conflicting advice to other users who have complained about this same issue.  (I posted actual text from their website below.)

Overall Review:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is great at first and then quickly turns into a dried-out unusable product.  If you use eyeliner every day and are okay with buying a new one every month, then this may be a very  good eyeliner for you.  If you are an occasional user, this will be a waste for you.

It is a shame that this eyeliner did not last longer as it has some beneficial ingredients for the skin and at first it was an impressive product.  With some tweaking of the formula to keep it from drying out so quickly this could be one of the best gel eyeliners in a stick form.

Helpful Tips & Tricks:

  • Always “set” your pencil, cream, or gel eyeliner with an eyeshadow in the same color as the eyeliner.
  • For a glossy extra-dramatic look, apply gel eyeliner, eyeshadow, then liquid eyeliner.
  • Always apply liquid eyeliner after your eyeshadow or the eyeshadow will get on the eyeliner and make it dull.

Users:  IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner is suitable for the following users:

  • All users (provided you don’t mind buying the product frequently)

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 2 stars4 Stars for effectiveness – 2 Stars for drying out so quickly = 2 Stars;

Evening Rating = 2 stars4 Stars for effectiveness – 2 Stars for drying out so quickly = 2 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars (They only used it once.);

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

Overall Rating = 2+ stars2.25 Stars = Just Okay.

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

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Sharpener

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Built-in Sharpener

IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Sharpener Issue 1IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Sharpener Issue 2

Ingredients: BLACK: TRIMETHYLSILOXYSILICATE, ISOHEXADECANE, ISODODECANE, POLYETHYLENE, SYNTHETIC WAX, SILICA, CERESIN, POLYISOBUTENE, METHICONE, ROSA CANINA FLOWER OIL, ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER, PALMITOYL HEXAPEPTIDE-12, PERSEA GRATISSIMA (AVOCADO) OIL, PRUNUS AVIUM (SWEET CHERRY) SEED OIL, PRUNUS DOMESTICA SEED OIL, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, VITIS VINIFERA (GRAPE) SEED OIL, CHOLESTEROL, COLLAGEN, HYALURONIC ACID, HYDROLYZED SILK, RETINYL PALMITATE, TOCOPHEROL, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, OLEA EUROPAEA LEAF EXTRACT, PUNICA GRANATUM EXTRACT, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA (MATRICARIA) FLOWER EXTRACT, IRON OXIDE (CI 77499).

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

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

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

Overall Rating = 3 stars3 Stars – Good.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Morning Rating:  3 stars3 Stars

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

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

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

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

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

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Evening Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 3 stars3 Stars;

Value Rating = 3 stars3 Stars;

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

Tatcha LUMINOUS Deep Hydration Lifting Mask

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

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

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

Sold By:  Tatcha; Sephora; QVC

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

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

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

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

Here are the directions from Tatcha:

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

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

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

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars

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

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

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

Here’s a recap to achieve the best benefits:

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

This mask is suitable for the following skin types:

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

RATINGS REPORT:

Morning Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Evening Rating = 4 stars4 Stars;

Average from Other Testers = 4 stars4 Stars;

Value Rating = 2 stars2 Stars;

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tatcha Sheet Mask Tub

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

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

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

Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Serum

2 Comments

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.