VINOSOURCE RICHE
Moisturising Cream Mask - 50ml
RRP : £21

What the promo says:

"A true moisture bath for the skin! This mask, which can be used to replace your cream, deeply rehydrates the thirstiest skin and allows it to defend itself more effectively against harsh environmental conditions. For all dry and very dry skin in need of an ultra-moisturizing, regenerating and soothing skincare product."

Why I bought this product: I bought this following my ‘Caudalie Experience Day’, held at my local pharmacie in France.

Packaging: As this product is part of the VINOSOURCE range, it comes in a white box with the signature silver grape logo, mauve lid and mauve band around the base. The tube containing the Vinosource cream mask resembles that of the Vinosource Riche cream and is a pretty light pink colour embossed with the silver grape logo with CAUDALIE written in green and 'Vinosource in mauve.

Application: The cream should be applied to a perfectly clean face and neck 2 to 3 times a week. The instructions say that you should allow it to penetrate and rinse away any excess product after 15 minutes. However, my 'Vinotherapist' told me that my skin would probably soak it all up in that time and she was right. I much prefer the idea of a cream that slowly blends in to the alternative of applying something whereby you have to hide in the bathroom in the fear that someone might spot you looking like a ghoul, with some ghastly concoction smeared over your face, counting the seconds to when you can rinse it off! I tend to do my face treatment first at night and, by the time I am ready to emerge into the bedroom the cream has disappeared. My husband likes the smell. Always a bonus....

In case of very dehydrated skin or extreme climates, this cream can be applied in a fine layer to replace your day cream creating a protective shield against the elements.

Appearance/Texture: Smooth and silky, it goes on well and rapidly penetrates the skin.

Scent: The cream contains grape-seed oil, essential oils of sweet lime, lemon, orange, hybrid lavender, coriander, vetiver, wild guaiac wood and sandalwood. No wonder it smells so good!

Short term/long term effects: Skin looks smoother instantly. I think the most stunning thing I have to say about this treatment combined with Vinosource Riche cream is that MY HUSBAND COMMENTED ON MY SMOOTH SKIN about a week or so after I had been following the beauty programme. Such a thing is rare, I am sure all women would agree. He asked me at breakfast one day how I felt after my 'Caudalie day' and whether I was pleased with the products....and when I asked why he had asked the question, he replied that he had noticed a difference in the quality of my skin tone. NEED I SAY MORE?!

Value for Money: Used just twice a week, the 50ml tube lasts a long time because only a small amount of the product is needed to cover the face and neck. A small amount seems to go a long way and I have the impression that I apply quite a thick layer. I have been using my tube for a month now and it is nowhere near finishing yet.

Perfect partners:
As part of the dry skin beauty programme the following CAUDALIE products can be used:-
Gentle Cleanser
Grape Water Cleanser
Beauty Elixir*
Vinosource Moisturisng Concentrate*
Vinosource Anti-wrinkle ultra-nourishing cream (Reviewed)
Tinted Face cream*
* REVIEWS FOLLOWING SHORTLY....

Suppliers:
www.caudalie.co.uk
The website lists stockists in your area.

www.beautyexpert.co.uk

VINOSOURCE RICHE
Anti-wrinkle Ultra-Nourishing Cream
RRP : £26.50

This cream belongs to Caudalie’s ‘Dry Skin range’ with grape-seed polyphenols and vinolevure*.

What the promo says :
« This rich, silky cream provides remarkable anti-oxidant action, deeply nourishes even the driest skin and reactivates the skin’s internal moisture mechanism.

Some CAUDALIE chemistry.....
“Dry skin has a smooth surface with fine, taut pores but is also subject to tightness and the appearance of dehydration lines. It suffers from a lack of lipids, which leads to damage of the skin barrier. This barrier becomes permeable to water and harsh external factors. As a result, water evaporates and the skin is weakened. Caudalie ensures your skin is comfortable, radiant and youthful with the Nourishing range for dry skin, featuring grape-seed polyphenols and Vinolevure*. “
What is Vinolevure*?
Vinolevure is a molecule extracted from the surface of wine yeast used during the wine-making process. It has unique moisturising and protective properties because it has the ability to retain up to 100 times its volume in water. It therefore helps to prevent dehydration of the skin and naturally reinforces the immune defences of the epidermis by protecting the skin from drying and irritating factors.
Following use of ‘Vinosource Riche’.....”skin is strengthened and softened. It regains its suppleness, softness and maximum moisture level.”

Why I bought this product:
I bought this following my ‘Caudalie Experience Day’, held at my local pharmacie in France.
What I liked about this cream was that it could serve as both a day and night cream. No need for two tubes. To make it extra nourishing, my beauty therapist recommended mixing a few drops of Vinosource Moisturising Concentrate in with it at night.

Packaging:
CAUDALIE’s packaging is pretty and eye-catching. White boxes with CAUDALIE written in green with a silver grape logo. Depending which range you buy, there is either the boxes have a light green or purple lid and band around the base. No attempt is made to deceive the purchaser with the size of the box, which closely fits the product contained inside. The tube containing the Vinosource Riche cream is a pretty light mauve colour. What I like about Caudalie’s tubes is that they are slim, elegant and light. Great for travelling!

Application:
Morning and evening on face and neck...a moment of ‘pur bonheur’ for your face! Only a small amount of cream is needed and it slides on beautifully, penetrating the skin’s surface.

Appearance/Texture:
I cannot rate Caudalie’s products highly enough....the smell divine and, as I said in my ‘Caudalie Experience’ ..provide aromatherapy for your face. I am now addicted to the scent and application of this cream both starts and ends my day with a smile....

Scent:
WONDERFUL! This cream contains grape-seed and borage oils, shea butter, chestnut extracts, camomile, violet leaves, cedar, beeswax....Need I say more?Buy some and see!!!

Longevity:
The tube is fairly small (40ml)...but who cares? At least it means I don’t have to buy a different product when I go on my travels. So far I have been using it since my beauty treatment day, which is a month. I have a feeling the tube will come to an end fairly soon (but I shall cut it open and eke out the very last droplet..) ...I estimate it may last me six weeks, applying both morning and night.

Short term/long term effects:
Immediate effect is very good...skin looks hydrated and feels wonderfully smooth. After a month I still feel my skin is looking good. Does this mean I may cast aside my ‘Lancôme NUTRIX’ after all? I definitely prefer the scent of Caudalie’s creams and, for the moment, feel converted.

Value for Money:
Compared to other products on the market I feel that Caudalie’s products are reasonably priced. I feel they are worth the money for all the reasons listed in the ‘personal commitments’ of the manufacturers.

Perfect partners:
As part of the dry skin beauty programme the following CAUDALIE products can be used:-
Gentle Cleanser
Grape Water Cleanser
Beauty Elixir*
Vinosource Moisturising Concentrate*
Vinosource Moisturising Cream Mask*
Tinted Face cream*
* REVIEWS FOLLOWING SHORTLY....

Suppliers:
http://www.caudalie.co.uk/
The website lists stockists in your area.

http://www.beautyexpert.co.uk/

Some information about...
CAUDALIE

Why ‘CAUDALIE’ ?

Caudalie products come from Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, a family-run property. In 1993 the owners met Professor Vercauteren, director of the Research Laboratory of natural substances at the University of Pharmacy Bordeaux. He introduced them to the extraordinary power of grape-seed polyphenols. These latter have exceptional anti-ageing properties. They protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals by helping to naturally stimulate the production of elastin and collagen fibres. These latter ensure the elasticity and youthfulness of the skin and improve skin micro-circulation.

Some important facts about CAUDALIE products :

The owners of Chateau Smith Haut Laffite have a personal commitment :
· Not to use parabens and phenoxyethanol
· To use plant extracts with active molecules
· To use a maximum of natural active ingredients (over 100 extracts from different plants)
· Not to test finished products on animals
· Not to use ingredients of animal origin
· Not to use mineral oil or colourings
· Not to use sodium laureth sulfate
· To prove the results claimed on volunteers through scientific evaluations under dermatological supervision.
For all these reasons...I am a CAUDALIE FAN !
Over the next few weeks/months....there will be more evaluations of CAUDALIE products as I work through their range.

LIPIKAR EMOLLIENT - moisturising emulsion for very dry skin LAROCHE-POSAY

RRP: £11 (200ml as shown. Also available in 400ml pump-action dispenser £16 )

What the promo says:

"This emollient saturates dry skin with lipids immediately. The skin becomes elastic and soft. Light and non-greasy texture absorbs quickly into the skin and does not leave greasy film. Apply once to twice a day, preferably after a bath or shower. Suitable for dry to very dry skin. "

Lipikar contains 10% Shea butter - a nutritive emollient, glycerin to hydrate and thermal spring water as a soothing antioxidant. It penetrates the skin quickly to soothe and restore comfort and suppleness. It replenishes dry skin and compensates for lipid deficiencies, helping to restore the hydrolipidic layer.

Why I bought this product:

Because my mother, who has passed on some positive attributes but also her dry skin to me, told me that the only body lotions worth using on our crepe paper skin were those containing LIPIDS. She's not stupid, my Mum....

Packaging:

La-Roche-Posay products come in simple no-nonsense packaging. As they are usually available from good chemists...they have gone for the 'clinical' sort of image...lots of white, the 'signature' blue rectangle with the name of the product clearly written on the front in black lettering.

Okay.....so it's not glamorous or attractive....but do you want superbly hydrated skin or an ornament for your bathroom? Lipikar can be bought in a white tube which stands easily on your bathroom shelf or in a pump-action dispenser.

Application:

One squirt from the pump action dispenser goes a long way. But if you are going to do your whole body you will need a squirt for each portion! The good thing about the pump action dispenser is that it can be very easily controlled, so you only squeeze out exactly what you need. A small push obtains just a small amount of lotion. You are not obliged to push the pump down all the way each time. I find one application is generally enough in Winter...but in Summer when I am in and out of the pool...another application before going out in the evening is generally required.

Appearance/Texture:

Just as the promo says.....it is a light cream that goes on easily and is quickly absorbed into the skin. It has a silky texture that isn't greasy and leaves skin looking smooth and hydrated.

Scent:

It has a light, fresh scent on application. This lasts for a while but is not obtrusive if you want to wear your favourite perfume over the top.

Longevity:

The effects last a long time and, because so little of the cream is required, so does the tube/dispenser. I find the large dispenser lasts around three months.

Short term/long term effects:

Excellent. One of the best body lotions around.

Value for money:

Excellent. ....especially if you follow the suggestions below!

Sarah's HOT TIP to make it last:

As I have suggested before with similar containers, the flexible tube has the advantage that it can be cut open and covered with cling film...enabling you to gain at least another week of use.

I wasn't going to be defeated by the harder pump action container either....convinced that there was more to be had once the pump no longer worked...I took a sharp knife to the container and sliced it in half. I gained a MONTH's worth of body lotion!

Suppliers:

A good reason for a visit to France! Available from all good chemists.

http://www.garden.co.uk/

http://www.beautefrance.com/

RUSH HOUR -Instant Makeover for lips and cheeks - BENEFIT
£16.50

- What the promo says - "A 10 second makeover...it's a fresh and lively touch up for lips and cheeks...in a silky smooth sunberry shade...it's peppy on all complexions!" This is all that is written on the leaflet inside the box but there are more useful details (full of exclamation marks and very 'American') to be found on Benefit's website as follows: "THE instant makeover for lips & cheeks. It's low maintenance, oil-free & non-comedogenic makeup for the gal on the go. This sunberry color cream is your shade! Apply to cheeks, dot on lips-vroom, vroom...you're ready to go!
Tips and tricks: The twist-up slim-line design makes application mess-free and fast! Starting at the apple of your cheeks, apply rush hour using whisker-like strokes. Blend evenly with fingertips. Then dot on lips and you're gorgeous in a flash!"

- Why I bought this product - I have always felt that the cosmetics industry is a bit of a rip-off, making us buy this product for one part of our body and that product for another. Whilst I am aware that things like nail varnish can only have one use (!) I felt that powders and creams for eyes, face and lips could be used more imaginatively to save having to buy so many products. So, when I saw that Benefit were combining something for cheeks and lips I thought, "Hooray! At last someone is producing a dual purpose product."

- Packaging - I love Benefit's packaging. It is colourful and bright and often quite 'retro'. The 'Rush Hour' box has a glamorous gloved hand sporting a ring over the glove... holding the steering wheel of a car. Inside there is a slim gold lipstick style container in gold with black geometric patterns. Easy to keep in your handbag.

- Application - Just a few dots needed on the cheeks, blended in with the fingers...for a glowing effect. A quick dash over the lips and you are ready. Just the sort of thing you can do quickly in your rear view mirror when the traffic lights are red.

- Appearance/ Texture - Goes on well and is pleasant to apply. Lips are nice and glossy on initial application.

- Scent - Not aware of one.

-Short term / Long term effects - Appearance is good after initial application. The colour is good for my cheeks although, being blonde, I do find the lipstick colour a little dark for me. Application lasts well ...all morning at least. ...although being a fan of Lancôme's 'Rouge Absolu' I do not feel that this lipstick has such a good hydrating effect. I find my lips are feeling a little dry by the end of the morning. The colour lasts well...and when it does fade, it seems to cling to the outer edges of your lips which gives the effect of a lip-liner.

- Longevity - This is a product that I would have used much more in my 'former life' when I was dashing around going to conferences and meetings as a Headmistress. I think it is a brilliant idea to have something to touch up your make-up after a long journey when you are looking and feeling a little tired. My present life-style is not so 'rushed' and I have every opportunity to go and replenish make-up throughout the day whenever I want...so I cannot give a good idea of how long this product would last if kept in a handbag and used regularly but I think the general idea is a good one. Well done, Benefit.

- Value for Money - Product does what it says and is not too expensive compared to other quality lipsticks on the market. When you bear in mind that it is a blusher as well....! Good value.

- Suppliers - Sephora, Boots, House of Fraser
http://www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk/

MAVALA - MAVA+ Extreme Care for Hands

RRP: £9.50

- What the promo says -

"Mava + is an intense repairing and moisturising treatment containing Camomile and Vitamin E to reduce redness and soothe, Shea Butter to nourish, smooth and repair, and a botanical complex which acts as a protective sheild to reinforce the skin's barrier defences. From the first application Mava + calms, softens and soothes hands giving immediate and long-lasting benefit. "

- Why I bought this product -

I had old-looking hands at the age of 18! It must be genetic....but my skin looked 'crêpe paper-ish' from a very early age. Looking at my grandmother's and my mother's hands...I knew where mine were headed...destined to look old before their time....so desperate measures have always been required. Finding the right hand cream, though, is not always easy. Mavala' s products have always been renowned for their effectiveness. I was lucky to receive this as part of a pack of beauty products shared with my niece (thank you, Bianca!) ordered from 'Votre Beauté' a French beauty magazine.

- Packaging -

Mavala's products come in the usual distinctive red and white packaging. A no-nonsense style that is easy to recognise. The box is about the size of the tube it contains so not deceptive.

- Application -

As with all Mavala's hand creams, only a small amount is needed. A tiny blob on the back of each hand goes a long way.

- Appearance/Texture -

Thick and creamy but not greasy, this cream goes on well and penetrates the skin's surface. It leaves the hands looking INSTANTLY SMOOTHER AND YOUNGER.

- Scent -

Sorry, Mavala, but why is it I find so many of your hand creams rather 'clinical' when it comes to scent? I have a wonderful French rose petal hand cream that smells divine and I found myself wishing Mava+ smelt the same. However, if one has to sacrifice scent for effectiveness...then Mava+ beats any other hand cream. What little scent it has soon fades, which is an advantage if you would rather not detract from your expensive perfume!

- Longevity -

As stated above, a small amount goes a long way so the tube lasts a long time.

-Short term/long term effects -

10 out of 10! Hands look silky smooth and the effect lasts all day. Hats off to Mavala! This cream will have to be added to my list of essentials.

- Value for Money -

Excellent.

- Sarah's Handy Hint to make it last -

Cut the tube when you can no longer squeeze out any more cream and civer open ends with clingfilm so that contents do not dry out.

-Suppliers -

http://www.mavala.co.uk/ http://www.mavala.com/
You can search for stockists near you on the website but most good chemists stock Mavala products.

The Caudalie Experience

'CAUDALIE EXPERIENCE' DAY!

When my local pharmacie in Saint Ambroix, Languedoc-Roussillon, offered me the chance to participate in a 'CAUDALIE DAY', offering me a free facial, I jumped at the chance.

Yesterday was the day...and I was treated to half an hour of cossetting in a small back room which had been beautifully decorated with Caudalie spa pictures on the walls, flowers and plants strategically placed and small candles flickering. There were sofas, a treatment chair, a table with the products all displayed and soft, relaxing music playing. I was even given a Caudalie grape herbal tea...which was delicious (and no need for sugar). I was ready to be spoilt!

Obviously, the young lady offering the treatment used as many products as she could on my face in the time available...all of them vital to the preservation of my dry skin....but what the hell? It was nevertheless a most enjoyable experience, even if the aim was ultimately to sell me as many of them as she could to me afterwards.

She gave good advice, was quick to analyse my skin's needs and knew what she was talking about...the chemistry of essential oils etc., so I was impressed.

I came away with a complete personalised beauty programme. Reviews of the items I bought to follow shortly...but here is a brief run-down of the products used on me during the half hour session.

CLEANSING STAGE..............

GENTLE CLEANSER for eyes and face.

My beautician added a small quantity of the facial scrub to this product to gently exfoliate my skin. The mixture smelt very pleasant and slid easily over my face. Whilst exfoliating, it did not feel too gritty or rough. It was removed gently with soft sponges. When I read the box afterwards I realise why it smelt so good and why it is such a thorough cleanser. It contains: grape-seed polyphenols, cornflower water, oat milk, sweet almond and jojoba oils, shea butter, coriander, sweet lime, memon, guaic wood, sweet prange, vetiver, sandalwood and a hybrid lavender. OUF! How do they cram so much in?!!

TONING STAGE........

GRAPE WATER

This was spritzed over my face and left it it feeling fresh and clean and the smell was delicious.

BEAUTY ELIXIR (EAU DE BEAUTE)

Not quite sure what the difference between these two toners was...but both were equally pleasant and this latter comes in a handy handbag size bottle for daily spritzing and feel-good factor. It contains extracts of grape and essential oils of rosemary, orange blossom and rose extracts, benzoin, myrrh, organic balm mint and mint. Mmmmm!

HYDRATING STAGE........

VINOSOURCE MOISTURING CREAM MASK

Now this is my idea of a beauty mask! None of your revolting pink concoctions to spread across your face and hide from your husband/hope no one rings the doorbell! This is a wonderful rich treatment that can just be left to penetrate deeply into the skin and does not require removal. Once again, it is full of all those wonderful CAUDALIE scents that are their trademark. It contains grapeseed polyphenols, grapeseed oil glycerin, cornflower, essential oils of lime, lemon, orange, hybrid lavender, corainder, vetiver, wild guaic wood and sandalwood. WOW! My skin is so dry it happily absorbed the lot in a very short time. My beautician recommended that I use it twice a week instead of my usual night cream treatment. She added to this a few drops of PULPE VITAMINEE REGENERATING CONCENTRATE... a magic little bottle containing a wonderful blend of essential oils: grapeseed oil, sweet almond and musk rose oil, neroli, petitgrain, carrot, sadal and lavender . This latter can also be added to your day cream to transform it into a more penetrating night cream.

FINISHING TOUCHES....

Finally, she applied VINOSOURCE RICH ANTI-WRINKLE ULTRA-NOURISHING CREAM, which smells totally wonderful - the final 'cocktail' of ingredients being grapeseed and linseed oils, omega 3s and 6s, borage oils, chestnut extracts, olive squalane, shea butter, camomile, violet leaves, cedar and beeswax. She added TINTED MOISTURISER to this....a nice touch so that I didn't have to emerge into the world with a face scrubbed of all make-up. Eye make-up was left in tact.

My beautician's final tip was that I should take a 3 month course of CAUDALIE VINOCAPS nutritional supplement capsules to penetrate my skin from within. As I really do believe that beauty comes from within...I shall definitely give them a go once my bank balance has recovered from this month's expenditures and a recent holiday to Italy!

Take my word for it....
CAUDALIE PRODUCTS ARE AROMATHERAPY FOR YOUR FACE!

The whole experience had me luxuriating in wonderful scents which lasted well beyond the treatment itself.

LANCOME NUTRIX

Replenishing Treatment for very Dry Skin

RRP: £46

- What the promo says -
"A luxurious cream for dry, sensitive or irritated skins. Enriched with repairing lipids to help the skin restore balance. Absolutely nourishes and softens skin."

-Why I bought this product -
My French beautician told me it was the only way to 'restore' my neck! (See Lancôme review of 'Absolue Teint') When someone tells you that, you know it is time to ACT! I have always had very dry skin and need something more powerful than the normal, rather watery day creams generally available on the market.

-Packaging -
A no-nonsense, elegant white tube with Lancôme's logo. Stands easily on the bathroom shelf.

- Application -
Only a small amount is needed....a few 'dobs' on face and neck and blend in.

- Appearance/Texture/Consistency -
The cream has a smooth texture and a thick consistency. In fact, if you are used to 'normal' day creams that have a high water content, it is surprisingly thick. My initial reaction was, of course, to think it too thick as it was totally different to anything I had used before. I was also worried that my skin would feel 'greasy' and suffocated by it in the heat of summer. Not so. It certainly feels 'heavy duty' on application compared to other moisturisers....but here lies all the difference! Once I had got over my surprise, I realised that my skin adored it and soaked it up like a sponge. It is thicker than other creams, which does take a bit of getting used to. My husband made a few comments when I came to bed with a slightly slippery face!

- Scent -
Very pleasant but subtle.

-Short term/long term effects -
It left my face looking and feeling instantly smoother, with fine lines reduced and did wonders for my neck! It blends in well and leaves the complexion glowing. After continued use over more than a year now, I can honestly say that it has 'preserved' the skin on my neck and I am addicted. Thank you, Lydia!

- Longevity -
Once you realise how good this cream is you will want to use it both day and night. As stated above, its effects last all day and postive long term results are achieved.
***SARAH'S HANDY TIP TO MAKE IT LAST***
When a product is as good as this you don't want to leave masses in the tube. Inevitably, this is the case with this sort of container, where there is a tiny hole at the top and the tube is more rigid at the bottom end. No matter how much you squeeze...there will always be some left inside. I decided to cut the tube open to see just how much was left was was able to 'eek' the cream out for another couple of weeks. Despite the fact that the tube was 'open' to the elements, the cream did not go hard inside (only round the edges) but I put some cling film over the end nevertheless to prevent too much drying out.

- Value for Money -
Worth every penny. It is so good that I do not need to bother with other creams...it serves as both a day and night cream.
Although the RRP is £46, if you browse on the net you can find it at £44 or even £37.95

- Suppliers -
http://www.lancome.co.uk/
http://www.garden.co.uk/
http://www.feelunique.co.uk/
Boots
Debenhams
Sephora

Benefit's Lemon Aid Eyelid Primer

RRP: £15.50

- What the Promo says -

"Wake up your eyelids with this warm yellow correcting cream. It helps to hide redness and discoloration on your eyelids. In a snap, eyes look refreshed, frisky and ready for fun."

- Why I bought this product -

I have been 'suffering' from redness in the 'crease' of my eye for some time and nothing I have used on my eyelids has corrected it or even concealed it....in fact, most products have only made the situation worse, causing the skin on my eyelids to flake and peel! So when I saw Benefit's 'Lemon Aid' I decided to give it a try.

- Packaging -

Benefit's products come in neat little boxes that do not try to fool you about the size of the product inside. This box is about 5 and a half centimetres square...easy to pick out on the shelf with its lemon segment design. Inside is a circular eye compact in black with the words 'lemon aid' in yellow'. I was hoping it would look more like a lemon....but never mind! It is a handy size to pop into any handbag and has a good clip fastening mechanism.

- Application -

Pat onto your eyelids using your fingertips, then blend. Can be worn alone or under make-up.

- Appearance/Texture/Consistency -

Quite 'yellowy' in appearance, it does however blend in well on the eyelid creating a natural look. The product is fairly creamy and so there is no problem with loose powder falling in the eye....and none is lost during application. Although I have worn 'lemon aid' alone it is very pale and so I prefer to use it as a primer for eyeshadow.

- Scent -

It doesn't have one.

- Longevity -

Applied first thing in the morning, its effect lasts all day.

- Short term/long term effects -

The product successfully covers redness until it is removed with make-up remover.

- Value for Money -

Quite expensive but you only need to use a small amount once a day so the small compact should last a while. The fact that I no longer have red-looking eyelids makes it worth it!

- Suppliers -

http://www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk/

Sephora

Boots

House of Fraser

GIVENCHY'S PRISMISSIME - 9 COLOUR POWDER COMPACT
RRP: £29.89

- What the promo says -
"A nine colour face and eye powder giving you a sensual and radiant complexion. There are two textures: one will unify the complexion and give you a matte finish whilst the glow texture highlights specific areas for a radiant, healthy shine.
Fine and light. Soft and easy to apply. Clings well to the skin : does not crumble or « polish »."

Available in two limited edition shades : maharani pink and maharani apricot.

- Why I bought this product -

...because I was sitting on a plane and trying to pass the time (and forget the fact that I was thousands of feet up in the sky in a heavy metal machine) and this is what I fancied from the 'duty free' booklet! I have never been a 'face powder' person and thought it was about time I tried to be like a 40s/50s filmstar. The combination of colours looked innovative and different to a normal face powder and I liked the concept of blending them to create a natural look.

- Packaging -

Hooray! Just for once, a beauty product comes in a box the size of what is actually inside! When the air hostess presented it to me, I thought, "Blimey, that's small!" but it was better than being given large box only to discover the product inside was that much smaller.

The compact itself is exactly that...COMPACT...and ideal for putting in your handbag..even a small one for going out in the evening. The container itself is a thing of beauty...the whole of the lid being taken up with the signature 'Givenchy' prism design in colourful, sparkly lettering on a black surround. The compact feels solid and chunky and is both practical and pretty. Inside the case is a two-tier system where you lift up the shelf containing the colours to reveal a wide, soft brush for application. There is a mirror in the lid. So much crammed into a small space and all very nifty!

- Application -

As easy as pie...and I love Givenchy's instructions. They dispense with unnecessary words and just have three small diagrams on the lid of the cardboard box. 1) How to open the tier system and reveal the brush, 2) Circular motion of brush across all the colours, 3) Application in wide sweeps to forehead and cheeks.

- Appearance -

I loved the colours and the sparkly effect when I opened the box. Once applied, the colours blend very well to give a light and natural dusting on the face that is evenly distributed with the brush. Subtle. The 'disco' side of me wished it sparkled on my face as much as in the box.

-Scent -

Love the smell...which is hard to describe but very pleasant and makes it a treat to put on.

-Longevity -

Lasts well during the day...but so much fun to put on that you will want to re-apply.

-Value for money -

Have only just started using this so am not sure how long it will last me. Watch this space and I will up-date.

- Suppliers -

http://www.parfumsgivenchy.com/ online shopping

Debenhams

Sephora

Harrods

L'ABSOLU ROUGE LIPSTICK - LANCOME

RRP: £17

"My Lips are quenched with sublime and reshaping colour."

-What the promo says -

"Drench your lips in hydration, nutrition and colour with this “rich-as-cream” formula that pampers lips with immediate and long-lasting hydration, leaving them supple, comfortable. In a range of luminous shades to shape lips in feather-proof colour and with a silky, satin finish for a deliciously hydrated look.. "

-Why I bought this product -

As with most cosmetics I buy, I was attracted to this product for its hydrating and nutritive qualities. I do not buy many lipsticks and am satisified with around two or three colours so I therefore tend to buy quality rather than quantity. I confess that when the girl in the shop told me that this was a hydrating lipstick, the cynic inside me said, 'Oh, yeh?' but I decided to give her the benefit of the doubt and try it anyway. I wasn't disappointed.

-Packaging -

I like Lancôme's packaging...it is sturdy, classy and instantly recognisable. L'Absolu Rouge has a gold base and a tapered dark blue container with the Lancôme rose on the top. The lipstick opens and closes well and there is a good 'click' to hold both parts securely together when being jiggled around in your handbag. The lipstick stands well on a bathroom shelf.

- Application -

Glides on easily! The creamy texture slides over your lips leaving them nicely hydrated and glossy. The shaped tip is excellent for 'painting' your lips to begin with but, of course, as with all lipsticks the benefit of this is lost after continued use.

- Scent/Taste -

Very subtle. Pleasant to wear and to kiss (I am told!)

- Appearance and Texture/Consistency -

With a range of 35 colours to choose from you will certainly find one you like! The colours are good and two strokes across your lips will suffice. The colour and moisturing effect both last well and the overall effect is good. Lips do feel supple and comfortable. As for the re-shaping claim..I have never really tried to re-shape my lips so cannot say...I believe in following one's natural lipline. I am no Scarlett Johanssen and adding lipstick isn't going to change that!

- Longevity -

As stated above, both colour and hydrating effect are long-lasting. I find that one application lasts all morning. If you drink water or wine, your lipstick is not all removed instantly so there is some resistance....but I defy anyone to drink a hot chocolate and have anything on their lips afterwards! Obviously, eating a bag of chips and licking your lips removes it.

As for how long the product lasts, well I suppose it depends on how many colours you have and how often you re-apply your lipstick during the day. I only have two colours and these last me a couple of months. I am never seen without lipstick and always re-apply it after meals and so I guess this means I use it quite a lot.

**** SARAH'S HANDY TIP TO MAKE IT LAST! ***

When you buy a quality lipstick it is a shame to throw it away when the lipstick is not longer protruding from its case. There is still quite a lot of product left in there! When my lipsticks get to this stage they are no longer allowed out for trips in my handbag but are relegated to the retirement home of my bathroom. There I use a lipstick brush to apply lipstick in the mornings...until there is literally no product left. I get a few more weeks out of them this way.

-Short term/Long term effects -

This product really does hydrate your lips....not just when you first put it on but all the time you are wearing it. I don't go anywhere without it. Whale and dolphin watching on a boat....snowshoeing up a mountain...my lipstick is always by my side. It seems to both hydrate and protect the lips at the same time. Excellent! I have taken to using it instead of the revolting products they sell for lip sunscreen.

- Value for Money -

If you use it all.....good.

-Suppliers-

http://www.lancome.co.uk/ online shopping

Debenhams

Boots

LANCOME - ABSOLUE TEINT Revitalising Nourishing liquid foundation

RRP : £44.95

- What the promo says -
"The light, creamy texture of this skin-caring foundation blends in evenly to brighten your complexion, while giving an instant sensation of comfort that leaves your skin feeling velvety soft. It provides hydration and nourishment to help your skin regain the suppleness of its youth. Your complexion looks natural and even. It glows with absolute beauty!"

- Why I bought this product -
I have always had dry skin and, as the years go by this is not something that improves with age. My beautician took one look at my complexion and muttered something like, 'Well, Sarah, if you want to rescue your neck there is only one solution!' She is French....and honest! And, no, I do not want 'tortoise neck' quite yet, so I listened to her. Her remedy for this latter was Lancôme's NUTRIX, and, for my face, she recommended ABSOLUE TEINT. She told me that this foundation was 'magic', that it really did hydrate and nourish and, what is more, she said, 'It goes on like a dream!' At £44.95 (cheaper in France where I live) it had to be good, as this is far more than I would normally spend on a foundation.

- Packaging -
The foundation comes in a clear frosted glass pot that allows the colour to show through and it has an attractive gold lid with the Lancôme rose. It is quite heavy for travellers. The pot opens and closes easily and there is no danger of the lid deteriorating with time and frequent use. The product also comes with a small plastic disk containing a miniature spatula for application. My only critcism would be that I wish this was square as I have difficulty propping it on my bathroom shelf.

- Application -
My beautician was right...it goes on like a dream. Whilst it might seem 'a bit of a fag' to have to use the mini spatula each time, it is well worth doing so as, not only does it help to keep the product germ-free, it also serves to limit the amount of foundation used each time. You really do only need enough to cover the spatula to make up your whole face. Once you have applied small spots of the foundation on forehead, nose, cheeks and chin, you simply blend in with your fingertips.

- Texture/Consistency/Scent -
The texture is perfect. Not too watery and not too thick. It provides good coverage and is smooth and easy to blend. Good results in only minutes. It has virtually no scent, so does not interfere with your perfume.

- Longevity -
One application lasts all day and all evening. If you use the product as sparingly as suggested then a pot really does last a long time. I use a different colour foundation in the summer and I generally find that a pot of Lancôme lasts me the 'winter season' here in the South of France, which means around 4 - 5 months.

- Short term/Long-term effects -
Lancôme's claims for this product are fulfilled. My skin feels instantly smoother after application and the overall effect is a homogenous, glowing complexion. Long term I feel sure that my skin benefits from the moisturing effects all day long and, having once started to use this product, I am hooked. The combination of this and Lancôme's NUTRIX has made a visible difference to my skin and.....thank goodness....my neck! Thank you, Lydia, for recommending them to me.

-Value for money -
Despite being costly, I feel this product is worth it. It does what it claims to do and the pot lasts a long time. I like the fact that it is in an ordinary glass pot and not a pump action dispenser because I am able to get every last smidgeon of foundation out and none is wasted.

- Suppliers -
http://www.lancome.co.uk/
Boots
Debenhams

Products to be reviewed soon.....

La Roche Posay - Lipikar emollient moisturising emulsion for dry skin
Sephora's Colour Pro Palette for Green Eyes
Lancôme - Virtuôse mascara
More CAUDALIE PRODUCTS.....
Beauty Elixir (Eau de Beauté)
Vinosource Rich Anti-wrinkle ultra-nourishing cream
Pulpe Vitaminée Regenerating concentrate
Vinosource Moisturising cream mask
MELVITA Products...
Melvita is a natural cosmetics and beauty products firm based in the Ardèche, close to where I now live. Their products are soon to be launched on the web for the international market.
Apicosma - Baume fondan pour le corps
Apicosma - Cleansing cream for dry skin

WATCH THIS SPACE!

BEAUTY IS MORE THAN SKIN DEEP!

OENOBIOL FEMME 45+ FLAT TUMMY CAPSULES

'rondeurs abdominales'

RRP: £21

-What the product claims -

After 45, the body has a tendency to accumulate surplus kilos. The stomach becomes rounder and the waistline thickens. Oenobiol Femme 45+ Flat Tummy capsules combine bio-active extract of linen, carthame and chrome. They help to reduce localised fatty deposits on the stomach. Results are visible from the sixth week.

-Dosage-

3 capsules, twice a day, with meals.

Being a natural product, these tablets can be taken all year round.

-Why I decided to take these tablets -

I have never had a problem with weight. I have always exercised, danced, done sit-ups etc. Just recently, though, (and I'm sure I don't have to say my age because the product sort of gives it away!), I have noticed that the localised fat on my lower stomach is harder to shift, no matter what I do. I was told by a friendly beautician that this is common at this time of life when one's hormones start to 'slow down'. So, along with exercise and massage oils, I started taking these tablets.

- DO THEY WORK?-

I thought I noticed a difference after a few weeks....but how was I to know for sure? When questioned by the lady in the pharmacy as to whether they worked, I replied that I didn't know because I didn't know what I would be like if I wasn't taking them!!

I stopped for a brief period and did notice a difference, though, so have begun taking them again. One of the rare things for this problem that actually seems to work! Well done, Oenobiol.

-Value for money-

Both my pharmacist and I think that six tablets a day is rather a lot and we have sent feedback to Oenobiol to suggest that they alter this. Taking this amount a day means that a box containing 60 tablets only lasts 10 days and this makes them rather costly. However, one does not need to take the tablets forever. The idea is that you take them for a three-month period, the French idea of a 'cure', and then have a break. Still an expensive option, in my opinion.

Oenobiol are running a good system where you cut out points on the bottom of the box and stick them to a leaflet provided inside. Once you have bought five boxes, you can send for a box for free.

- Suppliers -

The Garden Pharmacy, London

http://www.garden.co.uk/

Contact sales@garden.co.uk

VINOTHERAPIE by CAUDALIE

VINOTHERAPIE by CAUDALIE

CONTOURING CONCENTRATE thighs - hips - buttocks

Anti-cellulite - Draining

Targeted slimming and firming regimens

Inspired by the treatments of the Vinothérapie Spa

RRP: £24

- Product claims - helps to refine the silhouette and reduce the appearance of dimpled skin. It provides an immediate sensation of lightness. Your skin retains elasticity, tone and texture.

- Packaging -
Comes in an elegant green box that is much larger than the actual product within (as is so often the case!) and includes an instruction leaflet for application. The product itself is in a slim, clear cylinder that allows the golden liquid to show through and looks attractive on your bathroom shelf. It has a silver pump-action top under a clear lid. Travels well and, being slim, doesn't take up too much space in your washbag.

- Application -
Easy-to follow instructions...you pour a small amount of the liquid into your palm to warm it, then apply in upward, vertical strokes with a closed fist to stimulate circulation.
A practical touch: doses are marked on the side of the product so that you know how much to use.

- Scent -
I bought this product for how delicious it smells on my body and the 'feel-good' factor it gives me in the morning! Fresh and lemony. I could eat it! Contains the following essential oils: juniper, geranium, rosemary, lemon, lemongrass and cypress.

-Appearance and texture -
Product is an inviting gold liquid that warms quickly and feels smooth but not too oily. It feels good when applying and is quickly absorbed into the skin. Circulation is stimulated but the slight redness caused by efficient massaging soon goes away.

- Longevity -
One of the rare products where they actually encourage you to use only a small amount. The cylinder has marks for thirty doses, so provides a month of treatment if used daily. I find that I sometimes use even less than the marked dose...it depends how much of your body you are treating.

- Effectiveness -
The skin feels instantly smoother following application and the concentrate definitely has a moisturising and toning effect long-term.

-Value for money -
Compared to other similar products on the market I feel that this provides good value for money....especially as, in my case, it lasts me longer than a month.

-Other complementary products in the range -
Crushed Cabernet Scrub
Draining Organic Herbal Teas

- Suppliers -
http://www.caudalie.com/
Chemists all over the UK (see website for details)
SPACE NK
Debenhams