ELLA K BEAUTY REVIEW

Replenix Retinol Plus Smoothing Serum 10x Review

Retinol Plus Smoothing Serum 10x is a yellowish silicone-based cream with a leafy tea scent.  The serum requires a bit of rubbing in but it quickly absorbs to a velvety matte finish.  The formula contains retinol (1%), green tea and caffeine.  The retinol in this product visibly smoothes and evens out the complexion while the green tea and caffeine provide the skin with antioxidant protection.  This is the most potent retinol formulation in the Topix Replenix line and those not accustomed to high levels of retinol may experience peeling, redness and irritation when using this product.  The serum is also available in 3 lesser strengths: 5x for tolerant skin, 3x for normal skin and 2x for sensitive skin.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Redness Soothing Facial Cleanser Review

Redness Soothing Facial Cleanser is a green gel-liquid wash with a “perfumey” scent.  The cleanser generates silky-soft lather that removes dirt and makeup without over-drying the skin.  The cleanser rinses easily and leaves the face feeling clean.  The formula is enriched with salicylic acid, aloe and chamomile to reduce acne and redness, but these ingredients are washed away before they can make a significant difference in the skin. 

L’Occitane Labdanum Eau de Parfum Review (Limited Edition)

Labdanum is a subtle oriental scent.  The opening features a balanced blend of citrus and spices with warm, amber-like undertones that are characteristic of labdanum.  The labdanum quickly takes center stage and unveils an herbaceous-balsamic facet of its complex personality.  The composition gradually softens into a slightly sweet, slightly powdery base of vanilla and benzoin.  Notes include: Citrus Fruits, Spices, Labdanum, Benzoin, Vanilla. 

Dior Escale á de Pondichéry Eau de Toilette Review

Escale á de Pondichéry is a delicate feminine scent.  The fragrance opens with a refreshing blend of tea and citrus.  The opening notes quickly give way to a lightly sweetened floral composition with hints of jasmine.  The floral bouquet gently fades into a velvety base of musk, pale woods and a touch of cardamom.  Notes include: Black Tea, Jasmine Sambac, Cardamom, Sandalwood, Musk.

Dior Escale á Portofino Eau de Toilette Review

Escale á Portofino is a unisex citrus cologne.  The opening bursts with aromas of bergamot, lemon citron, petitgrain and juniper berries.  The petitgrain is the most distinct and persistent of the opening notes and it lingers into the drydown.  The top notes gradually mellow and mingle with subtle orange blossom and a hint of almond.  The fragrance dries down to a green-woody base with citrus undertones.  Notes include: Bergamot, Citron, Petitgrain, Juniper Berry, Orange Blossom, Bitter Almond, Cedarwood, Cypress, Galbanum, Caraway, White Musk.

Jergens Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer (Medium to Tan Skin Tones) Review

Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer is a hydrating white foam that goes on easily, dries fast and leaves no greasy residue on the skin.  The self-tanning formula develops a subtle bronze glow on the skin that deepens with use.  This product does not streak when applied thoroughly and it has a tolerable scent.   

Lancome Génifique Eye Youth Activating Eye Concentrate Review

Youth Activating Eye Concentrate is a beige gel-cream with a velvety, emollient texture.  The concentrate sinks easily into the skin without a greasy feel or appearance.  The concentrate helps to softens, smooth and hydrate the eye area but it does not reduce dark under-eye circles.  The formula contains alcohol and fragrance. 

Burt’s Bees Super Shiny Grapefruit & Sugar Beet Conditioner Review

Super Shiny Grapefruit & Sugar Beet Conditioner has a lightweight formula that does not weigh down hair.  The conditioner has a refreshing citrus aroma and it’s enriched with essential citrus oils, betaine (from sugar beets) and marula oil.  The formula softens and smoothes the hair but it’s not slippery enough to remove tangles.  The conditioner rinses without residue and adds shine, but those with dry, treated hair may require a richer formulation.