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Showing posts with label beauty technology. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty technology. Show all posts

December 23, 2022

Fragrant Friday - easy ways to choose a fragrance from Shoppers Drug Mart and Wikiparfum!

Whether you are still doing some last minute shopping or looking for a New Year's fragrance for yourself, you can't go wrong with:
 
Shoppers Beauty Women's Luxe Fragrance Discovery Collection - $115 - includes deluxe samples of 7 sensational fragrances and once you try them all and pick the one you like best you can use the certificate inside to get a full-size bottle! 
 
Choices include: Marc Jacobs Perfect 5ml, Chloe Signature 5ml, Gucci Bloom 5ml, Versace Bright Crystal 5ml, Lancôme La Vie Est Belle 4.5ml, Ariana Grande Cloud 2.0 Intense 7.5ml and Juicy Couture Oui 5ml.
 
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada - I've still seen them in store but they are sold out on the website so I don't imagine there will be any left in the stores for long! And there is also a men's version just in case you need to re-smell the man in your life!

Or if you want to skip the set but need some fragrance help? Then you are going to love yourself some Wikiparfum - an encyclopedia for perfume lovers created with the aim of helping you find your perfect scent! You can use it to search for thousands of perfumes by brand or name and immerse yourself into the world of scent with expert content by professional perfumers and scientists. You can also create a scent profile with the notes that you love the most and it will recommend fragrances containing them - helping take some of the guess work out of standing in front of the daunting fragrance wall trying to figure out which scent you might like!

Discover, learn and become an expert at wikiparfum.com.

- Lisamarie -

March 23, 2020

Needful Things - FOREO LUNA Mini 3

FOREO LUNA Mini 3 - $209 - in 5 colours: Sunflower Yellow, Fuchsia, Pearl Pink, Mint and Midnight - a compact, gym-bag-friendly, ultra-hygienic cleansing device specifically designed to care for active skin that offers a 30-second glow-boost mode for fast yet gentle facial cleansing.

The t-sonic pulsations are gentle yet still powerful (8,000 per minute at 12 intensities) and the silicone cleansing tips are not only ultra-hygienic, but also so soft on the skin that it feels more like a spa experience then a serious cleansing session but it still manages to effortlessly remove dirt, oil, and sweat for fresh, glowing skin!
It has a practical compact size (this is pretty much actual size) that easily fits in a gym or travel bag - and even with daily use, only needs to be fully charged a couple of times a year!

Available now at Sephora and sephora.ca and coming soon to Hudson's Bay and Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

December 20, 2019

Say goodbye to cords with the Conair Unbound Cordless Auto Curler!

Back when dinosaurs roamed the earth, the only way to curl your hair on the go was with curling irons that ran on butane cells - they might still exist, but running around with toxic gas in your purse seems like a questionable idea - especially when a much better alternative now exists:

Conair Unbound Cordless Auto Curler - $129.99 - add curls or waves anytime, anywhere with a ceramic curl chamber that reduces frizz and adds shine, resulting in beautiful, silky hair that looks like you just stepped out of a salon.

It's very easy to use: choose your heat (up to 400 degrees fahrenheit) and select your curl direction - left, right or mixed - they insert 1 inch sections of hair into the curl chamber, press and hold the button to begin curling - wait for the beep and release the perfect curl - easy peasy!

The compact size and cordless design makes it perfect for travel and on-the-go styling - and no gas to blow you up - it charges with a USB cable with a full charge earning you 60 minutes of use.

As someone whose hair won't hold a curl for more then a couple of hours, it's a real game changer being able to sneak off to the bathroom to perk my wilting curls back up in no time or effort at all!


Available at drugstores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

April 22, 2019

Perfect, glowing skin in 2 easy steps from Estee Lauder and Silk'n!

Have a special event coming up or just tired of your skin looking dull and lifeless? Give it an immediate perk-up in 2 easy steps!

At night, before going to bed apply:

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II - 50ml - $123 - a powerful nighttime renewal that intensely hydrates and instantly adds radiance for more youthful-looking skin with exclusive ChronoluxCB Technology to significantly reduce the look of key signs of aging including fine lines and wrinkles, dryness, dullness and uneven texture

Available at Estée Lauder counters across Canada and online at www.esteelauder.ca while supplies last.

Then before putting on your makeup the next day/night - take 20 minutes to treat your skin to:

Silk'n Titan Skin Tightening and Lifting - $299 - a painless, non-surgical treatment with no recovery time that reverses the effects of gravity and aging as it repairs damaged and sagging skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that is safe for all skin types. It works by affecting the upper layer of skin for improved skin texture, reaches into the dermis for rejuvenation and collagen restoration and penetrates deep into the subdermal fat for deep tissue tightening and wrinkle reduction - with visible results after just 10 treatments - but also works in just one treatment by plumping up the skin, increasing circulation and adding radiance to the skin.

All available at select Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques across Canada and online at beauty.shoppersdrugmart.ca.

Your skin might now look so illuminated that you don't even need to wear foundation but if it does still need some evening out just take a couple of drops of your Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation and add it to a few drops of the Night Repair, mix together and apply with a foundation brush for skin that will look smooth, radiant and totally perfect!

- Lisamarie -

January 17, 2019

Test Driving - NowMi Pro Complete Facial Solution


Going to the spa is one of my favourite things but sadly time and money prevent me from doing it as often as I would like to - so I love discovering at-home treatments that make me feel all the spa relaxation and effectiveness without the time-suck and price tag!

NowMi Pro - $240 - an advanced anti aging facial solution that enables you to deeply cleanse skin on a daily basis and also perform a weekly skin rejuvenating facial - all performed in the comfort of your own home. Designed for today’s busy lifestyle, the treatment takes only 5 minutes and can be carried out anywhere, anytime - and best of all, it costs just a fraction of its professional spa equivalent!

On one side, the device offers daily cleansing with silicone micro-fingers which emit 6,000 sonic pulses per minute to help the cleansing gel penetrate and thoroughly remove all unwanted makeup, dirt and oil - for highly effective cleansing that is also very gentle on the skin and doesn’t cause any irritation. As well as cleaning there is also the benefit of facial massage which boosts blood circulation, increasing the production of collagen and elastin - both key proteins which restore the skin's elasticity and firmness.

To be used with the included NowMi cleansing gel with a formula which includes: vitamin E - a powerful anti-oxidant that helps the skin keep hydrated and plays an important role in skin healing; vitamin B3 - an anti-oxidant that is known for its anti-aging qualities and for its ability to protect the skin from damaging UV light; vitamin B5 -  enables the skin to retain greater quantities of water and as a result stay moisturized as well as helps the skin repair itself and reduces inflammation; and Dead Sea minerals - the richest source of healing minerals in the world to infuse skin rejuvenating minerals such as zinc, calcium, chloride and sodium chloride.

The other side of the device is used in conjunction with vitamin C effervescent tablets and lubricant gel for weekly spa-like treatments which easily performs 4 skin actions:

Sonic Exfoliation - performed primarily by the effervescent tablet which has a slightly coarse surface. When massaged into the skin, the effervescent tablet gently removes the outer layer of the skin leaving it incredibly soft and smooth and facilitates the optimal penetration of vitamins and minerals into the skin - and enhanced by the sonic energy which emits 6,000 sonic pulsations per minute which ensures the thorough cleansing of all pores.

Sonic Nourishment - during treatment the skin is infused with pure vitamin C - a powerful anti-oxidant that helps the body to neutralize free-radicals and slow down the signs of aging. It also reduces skin inflammation and pigmentation; vitamin E - helps the skin protect itself from extrinsic factors such as pollution, smoke, unhealthy food and more, anti-aging attributes as well as its skin hydration and scar reducing qualities; and hyaluronic acid - a powerful antioxidant that  The Hyaluronic acid plays a major role in hydrating the skin. It helps the skin to retain water and as a result slows the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The Hyaluronic acid also helps the skin repair itself faster and reduces skin inflammation - the sonic energy dramatically improves the effectiveness of the infusion since it helps the ingredients reach deeper and faster into the skin.

Sonic Oxygenation: when the effervescent tablet comes into contact with the lubricant gel a chemical reaction occurs which creates a C02 rich environment. As a result, the body responds by sending 02 infused blood cells to the area. By doing so, it creates a natural facial oxygenation effect from within the skin which helps the absorption of the vitamins and minerals - the sonic energy further increases the oxygenation process- it degases the C02 microbubbles which significantly boosts the oxygenation effect.

Sonic Protection: replenishes the skin’s vitamin C supply and enables it to protect itself from extrinsic factors and repair damaged skin - the sonic energy plays an important role in the protection of the skin since it exponentially increases the infusion of the vitamin C.

It's very easy to use and after 6 weeks I can really see the results:my skin looks and feels smoother and fine lines are less evident;
my skin is more hydrated and plumper;
but what I really notice is the radiance, my skin glows - like really, really glows!

What's also nice about the device, it doesn't require a lot of upkeep - it's highly hygienic since it's made of nonporous silicone which is resistant to bacteria buildup and is also completely waterproof so can be used in the shower or bath. And once you fully charge it up, it has enough power to supply a month’s worth of treatments which makes it a great travel buddy!

Each kit contains:
 NowMi Pro applicator (powered by sonic energy)
Vitamin C effervescent tablets for 6 weekly treatments
100ml NowMi lubricant gel
100ml NowMi facial cleansing gel for daily use

Score yours now at: https://nowmi.com/product/nowmi-pro/

- Lisamarie - 

February 9, 2018

FOREO Espada Acne-Clearing Blue Light Pen

FOREO Espada Acne-Clearing Blue Light Pen - $199 - in magenta, cobalt blue and pink - Espada,which means sword in Spanish, is a blemish-busting tool that combines ultra-powerful blue light and T-Sonic pulsations to tackle acne-causing bacteria on the skin's surface.

Fight acne with a painless, non-invasive spot treatment in as little as 30 seconds. Just place on the skin in direct contact with the area you want to treat - made easy as red cross-hairs allow for precise targeting of blemishes - once in direct contact with the skin the pulsations begin, supporting natural blood microcirculation and facilitating the skin's renewal, which gradually increase in speed until the 30 second cycle is finished. Once pulsations have ceased, move on to any additional blemishes - and don't worry about cleaning it between applications, the ultra-hygienic silicone surface inhibits growth of bacteria on the device itself.

Unlike some treatment devices, no cartridges or changeable batteries are needed, it's ready to go right out of the box. The battery will run for 180 uses and requires one hour to recharge.

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutique, Sephora and Hudson's Bay stores across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

February 1, 2018

Test Driving - DermaWand Anti-Aging Skin Care System

DermaWand Anti-Aging Skin Care System - $119 - includes the device, pre-face treatment, carrying case, instructional DVD and beauty guide - for a non-invasive solution to help soften fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone and texture. 

It works by sending out a gentle stream of low level micro-current impulses up to 100,000 cycles per second, to massage your skin, improve circulation bringing oxygen and vital nutrients to your skin's surface - employing radio frequency technology similar to the large clinical machines used by medical and skin care specialists, but with a lower frequency and amplitude, that is safe for daily home use. 

It doesn't require a big time commitment - you can see results with as little as two 3-minute treatments a day. It also doesn't hurt, it's more like a prickling - there are 9 intensity levels that allow you to adapt your treatments to your comfort level - and don't feel like you need to tolerate the pain and use a level higher then what is comfortable - despite the common misconception, things don't won't work faster if they hurt!

The important thing to remember with this, as with any other beauty device, it takes time! You aren't going to see results after the first use or probably even after the first week - I always give new products a month to start seeing something - if nothing is happening even after a month that's a good indicator that it's probably a lemon!

Having been using the DermaWand for about 45 days now I have noticed that my jaw line looks tighter and feels firmer and my crow's feet are much softer - I have heard of people using it on their hands which I had also intended to try but they must have the patience of a saint - the wand covers such a small area at a time that it would take forever to do your whole hand - never mind 2 of them!
 
As far as the DermaVital Preface Treatment that is included, it's a very nice moisturizer but don't feel like you have to run out and buy more when you run out, you can use the device with any moisturizer, just pick something very hydrating.

Want to see it in action before buying? Check out the video instruction at www.HowToDermaWand.com.

Available now at Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques, Costco and other retailers across Canada. 

- Lisamarie -

June 12, 2017

Lise Watier PerfeXion Anti-Aging Skin Care

Lise Watier presents the first ever line of anti-aging correctors to feature cosmetic drones - PerfeXion!

Over time, stress and fatigue can cause your skin to lose its natural radiance and youthful appearance - enter an anti-aging line that helps correct and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores and radiance.

Of course you are wondering about those cosmetic drones - no they aren't those annoying buzzing things the neighbour's kid insists on flying over your house early every Sunday morning but rather a vanguard delivery system for active ingredients. This revolutionary system searches the skin's areas of need and then releases active ingredients exactly where needed, effectively correcting skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, tightening pores and restoring radiance. The formula also includes kakadu plum extract - the world's richest source of vitamin C to boost skin's natural luminosity and p-Refinyl - a lentil extract to tighten pores and refine skin's texture.

Available in the collection:

PerfeXion Anti-Aging Serum Corrector - 30ml - $65 - with a powerful formula that also includes  caviar lime extract - a gentle AHA that improves cell renewal to restore radiance and sea buckthorn - a natural antioxidant that nourishes and energizes the skin.

PerfeXion Anti-Aging Day Cream Corrector - 50ml - $55

PerfeXion Anti-Aging Night Cream Corrector - 50ml - $59 - the hard-working formula is also rich in ceramides and minerals to comfort and restore the skin’s protective barrier while you sleep.

PerfeXion Anti-Aging Eye Cream Corrector - 15ml - $49 - also includes the correcting power of haloxyl and eyeliss to diminish the appearance of wrinkles, reduce dark circles, and decrease puffiness around the eyes while providing maximum hydration.

Available now at Lise Watier counters across Canada and online at lisewatier.com.

- Lisamarie -

December 5, 2016

Tria Positively Clear 3-Step Acne Skincare Solution

Tria Positively Clear 3-Step Acne Skincare Solution - $199 - an acne-fighting blue light device  along with a cleanser and spot treatment that fights acne more effectively than traditional acne treatments alone.

Unlike other acne treatments, it gently eliminates bacteria at the source, deep within the skin, without harshness. The result is the elimination of blemishes, clogged pores and pimples, for a brighter, clearer complexion.

If you aren't familiar with the technology, blue light treatment is a non-UV light therapy, which is gentle on skin and does not cause persistent dryness and irritation, or long-term side effects. Blue light treats the very source of acne - bacteria (P. acnes) living in the pores. When blue light strikes the acne bacteria cells, it kills them without affecting the surrounding tissue. When the acne-causing bacteria is eliminated, so are clogged pores, blemishes, pimples and breakouts and  clearer, smoother, healthier skin is revealed.

The 3-Step system is easy to use and takes just minutes a day:

Step 1 - cleanse your skin with the Positively Clear Foam Cleanser to remove dirt, oil and makeup in order to prep your skin for Blue Light treatment;

Step 2 - treat blemishes fast by fighting acne-causing bacteria with the Positively Clear Acne Clearing Blue Light by gliding it across any problem areas and

Step 3 - target troublesome zones with the Positively Clear Spot Treatment.

The system can be used by anyone with any skin type looking for an easy and effective way to deal with those pesky blemishes. A little tip, not only is the blue light great for existing blemishes, it also works wonders on the ones you can feel under you skin that are just getting ready to make an appearance - a couple of treatments with the light and they either don't appear at all or come up much smaller. I have also been known to use the blue light when I feel a cold sore coming on - it seems to have the same effect, the cold sore either goes away before it even comes up or it comes much smaller and doesn't last as long!

Available now at www.triabeauty.ca.

- Lisamarie -

August 24, 2016

Beauty becomes even more fun with the first Canadian Sephora Beauty Tip Workshop at Yorkdale!

Available now Sephora Yorkdale is the first Canadian Beauty Tip (Teach, Inspire, Play) Workshop store which offers an interactive Beauty Together approach to beauty that will educate and inspire while being a lot of fun!
At the heart of the new store concept is the Beauty Tip Workshop which consists of an area for up to 10 clients to learn via group beauty classes led by Sephora experts, gain self-guided access to tutorials using iPad stations. Each station is equipped with its own product, iPad, USB port and wifi, making it easy to play, browse and share looks on the digital screen and online right from your own seat.

I had the chance to take one of the Beauty Classes and learn the secrets of the Bold Smokey Eye. The Sephora expert showed us first how to do it on her model and then we had the chance to try it for ourselves using all the products provided. Here I learned that a smokey eye is hard, deep shadow shades will not stay in my crease but like to migrate and make me look like I have a black eye; and that Sephora experts are really nice and even when you look like you've been punched they will still be helpful and encouraging! P.S. Said expert will be happy to know that I have been practicing and can now pull off a non-punched smokey eye look! It's actually pretty easy for even the spastic to achieve - Just apply a light/medium neutral shadow to the lid (like Sephora Colorful Eyeshadow in Panama Weekend - a dusty beige matte - $13); apply a deeper shade into the crease (like Sephora Colorful Eyeshadow in Safari - a light mauve luster matte - $13); and then blend the neutral shade outward to diffuse from the area below the eye into the crease; then highlight inner eye corners and browbones with a light nude shadow (I like a little shimmer for this so use Sephora Colorful Eyeshadow in Ballet Shoes - an ivory glitter - $13); and then add an additional liner layer to inner rims and lash lines and finish with mascara - easy peasy!

I highly recommend you learn from the pros an check out the Beauty Tip Workshop area and get in on a class - which you will find at Sephora Yorkdale - 416-785-4400 - check with them for class dates and times.

- Lisamarie -

July 20, 2016

Eye Love Wednesday - Tria Age-Defying Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser

Tria Age-Defying Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser - $285 - a breakthrough antiaging laser safe to use on all skin tones and types that is uniquely designed for treating around the eye area. It works by using thousands of microscopic laser lights to penetrate into the skin which triggers a natural process of cell renewal and natural collagen and elastin production that results in a significant improvement in visible signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area revealing brighter, more youthful-looking eyes.

There isn't a big time commitment involved just 1 minute on each eye once a day every day for 8 weeks for optimal results. I was a little worried that it would be painful since the skin around the eyes is thinner and more sensitive but it isn't bad at all - it's warm and there is a slight stinging sensation but nothing major. After using my skin feels a little tender but a generous helping of eye cream takes care of that. They recommend that you use it at night as the laser makes your skin sensitive to sunlight and, not that I've experienced it, but if there is any redness or swelling you'll have time for it to go away.

Keeping up the daily treatments is made easier thanks to the device's tiny size, making it super portable and it holds a charge a long time so can easily travel with you wherever you go without being a hassle.

Even after just a few weeks I am already noticing the results - the lines around my eyes seem smaller and less noticeable and my skin is brighter making me look like I got a good night's sleep even on the mornings when I didn't! 

Available at triabeauty.ca and sephora.ca.

- Lisamarie -

November 30, 2015

Recapture your youth with Mira-Skin Ultrasound!

Mira-Skin Ultrasound Starter Kit - $349 - contains the Mira-Skin Ultrasound device, 50ml Mira-Skin Ultrasound Gel and 15ml Mira-Skin Hyaluronic Serum.

Uses ultrasound to boost the power of your skin care - while skin creams can only penetrate the top layers of skin, ultrasound makes it possible to deliver essential nutrients deeper into your skin to smooth away unwanted imperfections and accelerate skin repair. The gentle micro-massage of ultrasound gently cleans and exfoliates your skin and promotes your skin's metabolism and lymphatic drainage as well as the production of collagen and elastin. In the first 30 minutes after treatment, skin is highly absorbent making it the perfect time to apply your favourite skin care products for maximum benefits!

It's super easy to use and requires very little in the way of a time commitment - just 5-10 minutes 2 or 3 times a week and you will see results from the first time you use it with a new radiance to the skin. The only strange thing is that when it's turned on you can't see it actually doing anything so even though there is a green light and a bit of warmth I didn't believe it was working - I got proof by putting a a couple of drops of water on the head and watching them vibrate!



Score your own at https://techmira.com.

- Lisamarie -

September 2, 2013

Quo by Orly has nifty new ideas for your nails!

Quo by Orly Smart Gels LED Lamp - $85 - a portable, compact and lightweight LED lamp that provides a convenient way to achieve a long-lasting manicure at home or on the go for a glossy, chip-free manicure that lasts up to three weeks.

If you've been putting off getting one of these home lamps because of how bulky they are you'll like the slim and compact design of this one. It folds down flat and can used hand-held or extend and lock it for a hands-free option. Includes a pre-set timer of 15, 30 and 60 seconds and a long-lasting battery with USB charging cord.

And you can use your snazzy new lamp with one of the twenty new shades that have been added to the Quo by Orly Gels line - $10 - with everything from pastels and neutrals, to bright hues and neons, to shimmery and glittery shades
and most excitingly, four Quo by Orly GelFX Duo-Chrome lacquers: Magenta Violet Chrome, Pink Blue Chrome, Rose Bronze Chrome and Yellow Gold Chrome - which contain colour shifting pigments that change in hue, creating a multidimensional two-toned manicure.

All available now at Shoppers Drug Mart.

- Lisamarie -

August 24, 2013

Out damn (acne) spot with Tanda, Vichy and Neutrogena!

Tanda Zap Power - $79 - uses safe, powerful blue light technology to destroy the bacteria on your skin that causes acne without drying it out. With sonic vibration and gentle warming to help open up the pores and make the blue light more effective. Works immediately to reduce redness, blemish size and inflammation - and is easy to use, just 2 minutes - 3 times a day - and it's compact and rechargeable so you can take it anywhere!

I personally also use mine for cold sores - the same heat that kills acne bacteria also kills the cold sore bacteria and makes them go away much quicker! Just be sure and clean the tip off with alcohol (rubbing not drinking) afterwards!

Available at The Bay, thebay.com and tanda.ca.
Vichy Normaderm Hyaluspot - 15ml - $21 - prevents and diminishes acne with an invisible, fragrance-free anti-spot treatment that has a “bandage effect” which uses a formula of hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and LHA - to form an invisible protective barrier, exfoliate dead skin cells, and act against bacteria to treat unwanted spots. It also has a great applicator which keeps you from having to touch your face and spread more germs around!
 Available at drugstores across Canada.
Neutrogena Rapid Clear Spot Gel For Acne-Prone Skin - 15ml - $8.99 - a clear gel with salicylic acid, clinically proven to reduce pimple size, redness and height in just four hours.

Available at drugstore and mass merchandisers across Canada.

- Lisamarie -

August 2, 2013

Marmalade the cat goes snap happy with the HTC One!

Greeting furless ones - Marmalade the cat here - I understand that you have been missing me and I don't blame you but I haven't really had anything to tell you about lately. With my extreme beauty there aren't many products worthy of my notice, until a company was wise enough to send me something to capture it with - an HTC One Smartphone. The phone part of it doesn't interest me so much, when cats want to communicate we make our calls from the top of the back fence at night - what makes the HTC One interesting is the camera aspect which offers pictures that are as sharp, clear and as richly colourful as those you would find on a regular camera. There was also some bla-bla about large, light-sensitive pixels but I saw something shiny and stopped paying attention - so let's just say it takes really pretty pictures - I was told it would be especially good for fashion pics and what better fashion is there then fur so I got some of my friends to model for me...
As you can see I live by the adage to always be the best looking one in your group of friends...
And since my friends all seem to be black and white this gives you an idea of how colour comes out.
It takes nice pictures in all kinds of light - here I am scoping the field for lunch mice!
It also does panoramic shots really easily.
Low level light and panoramic.
And even lying on my back checking out good climbing spots!
And of course what good is a camera phone that doesn't take a decent selfie...?!
The only thing it doesn't do is stop your stupid brother from photo-bombing you...
and totally taking over the shot - I swear I'm adopted!
HTC One needs to think about releasing this with meow commands though - it's a real bitch to operate without thumbs!

- Marmalade the cat -

June 8, 2012

Test Driving Infusion and Reaction treatments at Hydeaway Boutique Spa!

If non-invasive and needle-free procedures are what you are wishing for in the fight against aging than are you ever going to love Infusion and Reaction!

Infusion is a very cool and painless way to deliver essential vitamins, minerals and complex amino acids to the skin on both the face and body. It has many benefits including: anti-aging and wrinkle reduction/ collagen regeneration; skin re-hydration; skin firming and toning; body sculpting and cellulite reduction; and stretch mark reduction.

How it works is based on the science of electroporation - Infusion maximizes cell permeability and absorption - precisely crafted pulse waves temporarily open micro channels through the cell membrane to bypass the stratum corneium layer without puncturing the skin - which means that specially formulated ionic solutions can be safely and effectively delivered into the epidermis without damaging the skin.

Now I know you are wondering if it hurts - it doesn't! It tingles a bit but it's still pretty relaxing. A series of 6 - 8 treatment sessions are recommended for optimal results but the nice thing is that you can see results right from the first treatment. My skin immediately looked brighter and felt softer!

If you're looking to do some tightening on your face or body, you'll want to check out Reaction which instantly contracts tissue fibers for immediate smoothing, plumping and tightening results.

How it works is with Bi-polar RF energy which heats the dermis and stimulates collagen synthesis to strengthen existing collagen fibers for improvement in skin laxity, sagginess and texture. Immediate contraction of tissue fibers results in a smoother and tighter appearance of the skin. It's great for the jowls, cheeks, brows, neck, decollete and underarm and even sensitive zones like the eyes and forehead.

Again no pain, just a quick warm sensation, almost like being stapled with heat. A treatment course of 3-5 sessions is recommended for optimal results. I did feel like my skin felt tighter after that first treatment, especially along the jaw line.

You can find info about more information about both treatments at www.vioramed.com

Of course anti-aging doesn't come cheap and these treatments are no exception - an Infusion session will run you about $200 and Reaction around $500 so a membership is a great idea. Instead of paying per individual session and/or service you can get a smorgasbord of different services for a set price.

I had the opportunity to try both the treatments at Hydeaway Boutique Spa which is a most charming day spa in Mississauga and offers the membership packages. As well, they have all the regular spa stuff too including: facials, manicures, pedicures as well as a really cool Infrared Sauna.

The Hydeaway Boutique Spa is located at 1646 Dundas Street West, Suite 301 in Mississauga - 905-949-6777. You can check out their website at www.hydeawayspa.com

- Lisamarie -

April 4, 2012

Nifty notions - Clearasil PerfectaWash!

Clearasil PerfectaWash - $24.99 - an innovative automatic face wash dispenser system that delivers a perfect pre-measured amount of acne cleanser all without having to touch a bottle, a pump or anything else!

Included with the dispenser are two Ultra Rapid Face Wash cleaners. Superfruit Splash which features refreshing raspberry and cranberry extracts and Soothing Plant Extract which is formulated with extracts known for their calming properties. Both cleansers contain 2% Salicylic Acid to effectively treat and keep skin clear of acne pimples. Refills can be purchased separately for $9.99 each.

Since my husband is the one with problem skin, I had him try it out - he likes the Soothing cleanser better - he thinks the Superfruit one smells too, well fruity (it does smell amazingly fruity, must be a girl thing) and he thinks the dispenser delivers too much wash - not sure what he means by that, I tried it and I think it dispenses a perfectly reasonable amount of face wash - which makes me think that he doesn't use enough on a regular basis and considering how overflowing this house is with face wash, I have no idea why he's being so stingy with it!

If you have two people (or more) using the dispenser that prefer the different cleansers, you'll be happy to know that you can switch the cleansers back and forth. If you don't have acne prone skin and are wondering if you can use your own cleanser in this, the answer is sadly no, but hopefully they will come out with other cleanser options for it!

Available now at drug, grocery and mass market stores.

- Lisamarie -

December 27, 2011

Light therapy with Silk'n FaceFX, TRIA and Tanda!

I have become a big fan of light therapy - it is such an easy, non-invasive way to improve my skin and I never have to worry about product reactions! Here's an easy primer to the difference between the red and blue light benefits:

Red light  increases the production of collagen and elastin and effectively takes action against these signs of aging: reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; fights dullness for a radiant complexion; moisturizes to nourish dry skin for a healthy-looking glow; improves rough texture for smooth, soft skin; balances skin's colour to improve uneven skin tone; and firms and plumps for visibly younger-looking skin.

Blue light improves the overall health of skin for a more refined texture and brighter, more radiant complexion as well as clears acne breakouts and blemishes faster and prevents future breakouts. It kills bacteria at the source, deep within the skin, without harshness or irritation - the result is an elimination of blemishes, clogged pores, pimples and acne breakouts, and a bright, clear complexion.

I find I get the best results by using both types - I use the blue light first on any visible blemishes and in areas that I tend to break out and follow up with the red light in the same areas - I find it actually helps the blemishes heal quicker, prevents the red mark and clears up any red mark that might occur. I then use the red light in any areas I think are looking too old!

The nice thing about these devices is how portable they are - I use them while watching educational programing (Real Housewives) on the television but could also easily use them just about anywhere - just expect strange looks if you use them in public places! Here are a few to choose from:

Silk'n FaceFX Anti-Aging Light Device - $299 -  helps treat periorbital wrinkles and reduce pore size, all while helping to temporarily improve the appearance of the skin and is perfect for anyone concerned about anti-aging or skin rejuvenation. After just eight weeks of using Silk'n FaceFX, users reported improvement in skin texture, a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, the fading of skin patches and a reduction of pore size. All of these benefits combine to reveal younger-looking skin. It can be used anywhere you see signs of aging or desire a youthful glow.

I like that this one has a metal head, it makes the device  feel warm and super smooth on your skin!

Available at The Shopping Channel - www.theshoppingchannel.com
TRIA Skin Perfecting Blue Light - $245 -  includes the blue light device, a 2 month cartridge, battery charger and instructions. You can use it once a day for 5 minutes or twice a day for 2 1/2 minutes and expect  healthy, clear skin, with fewer acne breakouts and no irritation  in as little as two weeks. Spare cartridges are $40.

What I like about it as opposed to the traditional creams that I would normally use to treat acne is that it doesn't dry out my skin and make it go all flaky around the blemish area the way a spot treatment does!


Available at http://www.triabeauty.ca/skin-perfecting-blue-light, Nordstrom and select retailers.
Tanda Luxe  - $195- you've already heard me proclaim my Tanda love previously and now that I'm aware that the device has been improved with the addition of sonic vibration and gentle warming to give it more of a facial effect I am very excited!

It's a very quick addition to a beauty routine. You can use it in targeted areas and it only takes 3 minutes twice a week or for the full facial experience - or you can use the device over your whole face for 12 minutes. You'll notice even better results if you use your favourite serum afterwards - this is when I like to apply a brightening product!

The same improvement of vibration and warming has been made to the blue light system - Tanda Clear+ - $195 - what's really nice is you don't have to buy separate systems if you want to use both - the different light heads are sold individually and can be used with either system!

And of course if it's the blue light you are after and you need something a little more budget friendly, there is always the Tanda Zap!

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart, The Bay, Sephora, The Shopping Channel - www.theshoppingchannel.com and Tanda.com.

- Lisamarie -

December 14, 2011

This week I'm obsessed with... Clarisonic Opal!

I do so love a beauty gadget and will admit to having bought many of them over the years. Most of them have turned out to be all claim and no substance so you can imagine how thrilled I am when I find one that actually does what it says it will!

A couple of years back I discovered the joy that is my Clarisonic face cleanser so I should have realized that when they came out with an eye fix, it would be just as awesome!

Clarisonic Opal Sonic Infusion System - $185 - soothing, gentle vibrations infuse serum into the outermost layers of the epidermis where it begins to work immediately. In clinical studies most women reported seeing an immediate reduction in fine lines and wrinkles and firmer, brighter, more hydrated skin in just one minute with results that typically last for hours and benefits which improve over time.

Application is quick, only 30 seconds per eye, gentle and involves three easy steps: simply charge the Opal, fill the applicator with serum, and infuse your skin by moving the device in a circular motion around the bone of the eye. The proven immediate and long-lasting results include a decrease in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as invigorated, soothed and firmed skin.
But what really sold me on the idea of it was this nifty pic of how much serum is actually absorbed when putting it on with your finger vs. using the Opal!

I've been using it for a few weeks now and I can definitely notice the difference in how much smoother and moisturized my eye area feels - now I'm sorry I waited so long to get one!

The system includes: the Sonic Infuser, Anti-Aging Sea Serum, universal voltage charger (which is the coolest thing, the infuser connects to it via a magnet) and 2 replacement applicator tips.

You can use your own serum or eye cream with it or you can also purchase a replacement set of the Anti-Aging Sea Serum and 2  applicator tips for $65.

Available at The Shopping Channel - www.theshoppingchannel.com and Sephora.

- Lisamarie -

November 4, 2010

Help Clarisonic and The Shopping Channel Celebrate! Contest!

The Shopping Channel is celebrating one wonderful year with Clarisonic on November 17th and we've decided to start the party early!

Want to know about the guest of honour?  I can speak from personal experience on this one, I bought my Clarisonic a year ago and it's one of the best beauty investments I have ever made!  I can really feel the difference with how my skin feels when I use it compared to when I don't.  It also does a much better job of removing makeup!  Other Clarisonic benefits include: soft, smooth skin, better cleansing means products absorb better, reduces oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes, reduces the appearance of visible pores, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Of course, what's a party without presents and what's a Clarisonic party without Clarisonic presents?!  How about your very own Classic Clarisonic?!  Better yet, let's give away two of them!

Included in each prize pack worth $237 is:
Clarisonic Classic 2-Speed Brush and Charger
Brush Head for Sensitive Skin
3 x travel size cleansers - Nourishing Care Cleanser (30ml), Gentle Hydro Cleanser (30ml), Refreshing Gel Cleanser (30ml)
Bonuses: Gentle Hydro Cleanser (6oz); Brush Head for Normal Skin, Brush Head for Delicate Skin

Want one?  I know stupid question!  Just leave us a comment letting us know what Today's Showstopper is and you are instantly entered.  You can find that info at www.theshoppingchannel.com  You can enter once a day!  For extra entries:  Tweet this contest (once a day), post it on your blog, "like" The Shopping Channel on Facebook, follow The Shopping Channel on Twitter and make sure you leave us a post letting us know you did it.

This contest is open to Canadian followers of Beauty Crazed - if you aren't a follower it's easy to sign up - you can follow through either Google or Facebook Networked Blogs - both signups are in the right hand sidebar!  Contest ends at midnight on November 17th.

And make sure you tune in to The Shopping Channel on November 17th for a great Clarisonic deal and to help celebrate!  And of course you can get a shopping fix anytime 24/7 at www.theshoppingchannel.com

- Lisamarie -