ELLA K BEAUTY REVIEW

Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 45+ Review

Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 45 is a milky fluid sunscreen for all skin types.  The formula protects the skin from sun exposure with a potent blend of chemical sunscreens and several antioxidants.  The lightweight fluid goes on easily and quickly absorbs to a non-greasy, non-whitening finish with a hint of shine.  This product is formulated without added fragrance, but it has a chemical sunscreen odor. 

Paula’s Choice Shine Stopper Instant Matte Finish with Microsponge® Technology Review

Shine Stopper is a lightweight white lotion formulated to absorb excess oil from the skin’s surface.  To apply, you gently dab a small amount over oily areas before or after makeup application.  The lotion quickly disappears into the skin, leaving behind a colorless, silky powder finish; however, the skin can appear streaky if too much product is applied.  This product blurs the look of pores and keeps the skin shine-free for a few hours. 

MAC Zoom Fast Black Lash Mascara Review

Zoom Fast Black Lash Mascara creates long jet-black lashes.  A slim, tapered brush applies the mascara evenly and without clumps.  The formula is wet, but it dries quickly and does not smudge when applied carefully.  The mascara lengthens, separates, and fans out the lashes while building volume.  The mascara stays on without flaking, but it smears a bit at the end of the day.  This product has a slight chemical odor. 

Paula’s Choice RESIST Weekly Resurfacing Treatment with 10% Alpha Hydroxy Acid Review

RESIST Weekly Resurfacing Treatment is a translucent, toner-like liquid with 10% glycolic acid, antioxidants, and anti-irritants.  The nighttime treatment applies like a regular toner, but it stings the skin while it dries.  The formula leaves the skin lightly hydrated and with minimal stickiness.  The treatment can be left on overnight or, if the skin is not accustomed to glycolic acid, rinsed off after 10 minutes.  The glycolic acid in this product leaves the skin soft, smooth, and glowing after just one treatment.

Paula’s Choice RESIST Cellular Defense Daily Moisturizer SPF 25 Review

RESIST Cellular Daily Defense Moisturizer is a moisturizing white cream with a whipped, airy texture.  The formula contains a mineral-based sunscreen (titanium dioxide) and several antioxidants.  The cream glides on easily, but it looks pasty as you rub it into the skin.  The cream absorbs with only a trace of white residue; leaving behind a moist, dewy finish that may be too heavy for normal and oily skin types.  This product is fragrance-free.

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Lotion Review

Skin Perfecting 1% BHA Lotion is a lightweight lotion with 1% salicylic acid.  In addition to salicylic acid, the formula contains anti-irritants and skin conditioners.  The lotion feels moist when applied to the skin, but it quickly dries to a weightless matte finish.  The formula gently exfoliates the skin and leaves it smooth and even-toned.  This product has a somewhat unpleasant “sour cucumber” scent that quickly fades away.

Nars Cream Blush (Penny Lane) Review

Penny Lane is a nude pink blush with peachy undertones.  The cream blush has a smooth, non-greasy texture that turns to a silky, weightless powder when applied to the skin.  The blush leaves a natural-looking flush of color on the skin that stays on most of the day.  The formula also contains micro-shimmer for a subtle glow without sparkles of glitter.

Versace Yellow Diamond Eau de Toilette Review

Yellow Diamond is a sunny floral scent.  The opening is reminiscent of yellow wildflowers with clean, lemony undertones.  The opening notes quickly evolve into a sparkling, airy bouquet of water lily, freesia, and other flowers.  The bright floral notes gradually fade to a fresh musk finish.  Notes include: Citron, Pear Sorbet, Neroli, Bergamot, Freesia, Orange Blossom, Mimosa, Water Lily, Amber, Woods, Musk.

Paula’s Choice Essential Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 15 Review

Essential Non-Greasy Sunscreen is a lightweight white lotion designed for normal to oily/combination skin.  The oil-free formula combines chemical sunscreens (avobenzone and others) and antioxidants to protect the skin from sun exposure.  The lotion applies easily, but it leaves the skin shiny and a little tacky.  The formula is free of fragrance and colorants.