Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser

Canada has finally released Maybelline's Baby Skin.  I scooped up this product weeks ago when I visited New York and was ecstatic when I finally got my hands on it.  I have heard many great things about this product, one of which was to compare it to Benefit's Porefessional (which I cannot do a comparison on because I have never continuously used that product).  This product retails for $6.99/ $9.96 (USD/CDN) for 20 ml of product.  The product can be found in CVS, Walgreens and Walmart in the States and so far I have only seen this product in Walmart Canada.

Maybelline describes this product as being a lightweight and transparent gel that has a cherry extract which will transform your skin into a youthfully smooth and matte base for makeup wearers and non makeup wearers on the go.

When using this product you will notice your pores looking blurred instantly, this is due to the silicon elastomer, silicia and emollient formula.  The high silicone content in this product encourages foundation to glide onto your skin without leaving any patches or streaks.

Pros: This product definitely smooths skin, prevents some shine- blotting is still required (great for combination to oily skin) and is suitable for sensitive acne prone skin.  I love the fact that Maybelline took the extra step to add a beneficial addictive (cherry extract) to this product.  After doing some research, cherry extract is great as an antioxidant, it boosts production of collagen, elastin and it encourages the skin to retain moisture.  This product is clear, therefore on my deeper skin tone there is no tint.

Cons: Though this product claims to be fragrance free it does have a slight alcohol smell (that eventually fades).  Upon application, the gel like product will seem to be oily but after the product settles onto the skin, the product just feels smooth and silky to the touch.

Tips:  Since this product does not claim to help with oil control (though all the ingredients lends to implying that is does), I applied it as such and the results were great on my skin (please note I am reviewing this in colder temperatures).  I found even with my very oily skin, this product didn't make my skin appear oilier.  Less is definitely more with this product due to the texture.

Texture Shot

Before and After

Overall, I loved this product and will be a repurchasing it!  Have you tried it?

Jamberry Nails (Final Review)

Before you read my final review, did you read my initial review of Jamberry Nails?

Jamberry Nails worn as an accent nail (1.5 weeks after initial application)

I wore my Jamberry Nails for approximately 2.5 weeks, and overall I was impressed with this product. With slight lifting (on one side), I found this product to be great for women on the go, who like beautiful nail art without the hassle. 

To take them off, I just lifted the nail wraps from my nail bed and peeled it off.  There was no damage done to my natural nails.

The longevity

As some of my regular readers would know I have natural kinky hair.  With the Jamberry nail wraps I was a bit concerned that the wraps would get snagged in my hair and my hair products (oils and heavy butters) would lift the wraps easily.  Surprisingly, this did not happen until 2 weeks of wear! I am very impressed by that.  Regular nail polish usually lasts 2-3 days after a fresh paint (as seen in picture below).

Overall, this is a great product and a fantastic gift especially for bachelorette parties, birthday gift bags and wedding parties!

Jamberry Nails after 2.5 weeks of wear vs. regular nail polish (top and base coat) after 2 days of wear.

*Disclosure: This is a sponsored review from a Jamberry Nail Consultant.  The product was not bought, but given for my honest review. Therefore all opinions are my own.

Iman Time Control- Under Cover Agent Oil Control Primer

This is a good everyday primer, especially if you have combination to oily skin.  The consistency of this product is that of a thick serum.  It is easy to spread and therefore blend. The staying power of this primer is fantastic even on oily skin (I blotted once throughout the day in cooler temperatures). For $15/$24 (USD/CDN) you will get 40 ml of product presented  in a sleek  squeeze tube that has a pump attached.

Tips: Ensure that primer is fully dried before proceeding with liquid foundation/pressed powder. This will ensure a smooth and flawless application.

Pros: The primer feels lightweight and smooth upon application.  Perfect for an everyday primer (keeps shine away while it slightly fill pores for a somewhat flawless look).

Cons: Product has a slight scent.  Does not last all day (12 hrs on the go).  I found I personally had to blot my T-zone once (within Canada we are experiencing cooler temperatures).  The price is a bit high for a primer that is not considered highend.

Final thoughts: This product creates a matte base for your makeup application. After doing some research it came to my attention that the product also contains peppermint and chamomile extracts which is said to soothe skin (no noticeable peppermint scent found in product). The formula of the product is color-free, therefore it won't alter your foundation shade. Overall, I would suggest this product (especially for everyday use-not special events).

Jamberry Nails (Initial Review)

I am such a fan of nail art. Whether it be done in a salon, at home or using nail stickers.  Jamberry is an 'all over' nail wrap that can easily be applied from the comfort of your home.  With 6 simple steps to apply, this vinyl nail wrap is not made of nail polish.

The wear longevity of this product is said to be 2 weeks for nails and approximately 4 weeks for the toes.  With the likelihood of no chipping.  This is great for the woman on-the-go, who always wants that manicured look.

The application (my experience)

As I set up the required tools for application which included  a nail file, cotton pad + alcohol (or alcohol wipes) and a hair dryer; I thought to myself this would be tedious.  I soon found, out I was wrong. It was a quick easy process with no trimming of the product required (fit my nail bed perfectly).  When it came to trimming the ends off, to fit the length of your nails I found this part a little tricky.  Due to the material of the wraps, it was a bit difficult to get the wrap to lay smoothly on the tip of the 'free edge' on the nail (eventually I got it to work-by warming the wrap while it was on my nail and adding more pressure). However everywhere else the wrap applied and laid smoothly with no appearance of lifting. 

Tips for application:

-  Ensure there are no oils or residue on your nails for the best application.  

-  Use your blow-dryer on the highest heat to warm up the wraps properly (heat needed to activate the adhesive). 

-  When holding the wraps during this step,  I held it with tweezers because I found the air too hot to hold it with my bare hands.

Initial thoughts:

Love the product.  You can get intricate designs done quickly (they offer lots of patterns from simple to intricate in many colours).  I have worn this wrap for over 3 days and so far I really do like it (and I am amazed it is still on since I use my hands a lot).

They always have amazing deals on these nail wraps (so contact your closest Jamberry Nail representative).  Plus Christmas is right around the corner and this is a great stocking stuffer!

After application: 

Have you used Jamberry Nails?

A two week final review will be done.

*Disclosure: This is a sponsored review from a Jamberry Nail Consultant.  The product was not bought, but given for my honest review. Therefore all opinions are my own.