ELLA K BEAUTY REVIEW

Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Eau de Parfum Review

Neroli Portofino is a refreshing neroli cologne enhanced with citrus, subtle florals, and herbs.  The fragrance opens with true neroli framed by zesty bergamot, crisp lemon, and sweet mandarin.  The neroli accord is gradually softened with subtle orange blossom and jasmine, resulting in a clean floral blend with a hint of soapiness.  The fragrance dries down to a citrusy amber base with green-herbaceous undertones.  Notes include: Neroli, Bergamot, Lemon, Mandarin, Lavender, Jasmine, Orange Blossom, Rosemary, Amber.  

Stella McCartney L.I.L.Y Eau de Parfum Review

Lily is a fresh floral scent contrasted with dry woods and white musk.  The opening features a dewy lily of the valley accord with green-peppery undertones.  The lily gradually mellows into a blend of dry woods and fresh rose.  The fragrance settles to a white musk base with a hint of patchouli and woods.  Notes include: Black Truffles, Black Pepper, Lily of the Valley, Pink Pepper, White Musk, Oakmoss, Patchouli.

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Ultra-Sheer Daily Defense SPF30 Review

Skin Balancing Ultra-Sheer Daily Defense SPF30 is a milky liquid sunscreen for normal, oily, and combination skin.  The formula contains an effective blend of chemical sunscreens, powerful antioxidants, and lightweight hydrators.  The sheer liquid feels slightly gritty going on, but it rapidly absorbs into the skin without white residue, excessive shine, or stickiness.  The formula leaves the skin with a smooth semi-matte finish and just a hint of sheen.  This product is fragrance-free. 

Bobbi Brown Everything Mascara (Black) Review

Everything Mascara creates soft, natural-looking lashes.  The mascara features a plush, tapered brush that applies the formula easily and evenly. 
The mascara separates and defines the lashes without clumping, while adding a bit of length and volume.  The formula stays on all day without smudging or flaking, but it’s a bit difficult to remove with a cleanser alone.  

L’Oreal Colour Riche Balm (Tender Mauve) Review

Colour Riche Balm in Tender Mauve is a sheer mauve lip balm with subtle shimmer and shine.  The formula is enriched with natural oils and it glides smoothly over the lips.  The lip balm has a lightweight, creamy feel without any stickiness.  The formula keeps the lips hydrated even after the color wears off.  This product has a sweet, sugary scent.

Yves Saint Laurent Manifesto Eau de Parfum Review

Manifesto is a fruity gourmand scent.  The opening features luscious black currant balanced with citrus and fresh greens.  The black currant accord transitions gracefully to a velvety bouquet of white flowers warmed by tonka bean.  The tonka bean quickly eclipses the floral notes and blends with creamy vanilla and sensual woods in the drydown.  Notes include: Black Currant, Bergamot, Fresh Green Wave, Jasmine, Tonka Bean, Cedar, Sandalwood, Vanilla.  

Algenist Firming & Lifting Eye Gel Review

Firming & Lifting Eye Gel is a silky silicone-based serum for the eye area.  
The formula features a slew of anti-aging ingredients that include alguronic acid, antioxidants, peptides, plant extracts, and plant proteins.  
The lightweight gel glides easily over the eye area and absorbs without stickiness or shine, creating a smooth base for concealer.  The formula reduces puffiness, softens fine lines, and hydrates the skin around the eyes, but dry skin types may need to follow the gel with an eye cream.

Dolce & Gabbana Desire Eau de Parfum Review

Desire is a fresh fruity-floral scent with a subtly sweet gourmand base.  The fragrance opens with a delicate blend of citrus, lychee, and lily of the valley.  Behind the opening notes are fresh white flowers with sweet plum undertones.  The floral notes quickly give way to a fruity vanilla-caramel accord trailed by silky woods, sensual musk, and a whisper of leather.  Notes include: Mandarin, Lychee, Bergamot, Madonna Lily, Tuberose, Jasmine, Plum Nectar, Caramel, Sandalwood, Musk, Labdanum.