Saturday, June 30, 2012

Beauty Blog Coalition Weekly Roundup for the Week Ending 6/29/12

Here are our topic picks for your reading pleasure! Have a lovely weekend!

MALIN+GOETZ Grapefruit Face Cleanser Review

Malin+Goetz is one of those brands that makes top quality products in no-frills packaging. So far I have really liked all of their products- most notably their delightful Mojito Lip Balm (reviewed here).

The Grapefruit Face Cleanser was a very refreshing surprise- I expected it to be harsh and stripping on my combination skin, but it was not.

"Our foaming cleansing gel synthesizes natural grapefruit extract with amino acid-based cleansing agents. Unlike traditionally harsh detergents that can be drying, stripping and irritating, this formula gently and thoroughly purifies and hydrates to ph balance all skin types, especially sensitive. Rinses residue free, eliminating the need for a toner. Perfect make-up removal. Natural fragrance and color. Easily integrated into daily maintenance and prevention regimen."

Additional claims:

0.5% Grapefruit Extract. All Skin Types.
Amino Acid Hydration Technology - FC-100-08.

+ #1 best seller, for all skin types
+ Gentle enough for dry, sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
+ Removes make-up, alternative to oil-based/milk cleansers
+ Natural antibacterial grapefruit helps prevent blemishes

"Grapefruit Face Cleanser contains glycerin, natural grapefruit extracts and sodium pca hydrate. Grapefruit extracts in this cleanser has cleansing, exfoliating properties while glycerin, sodium PCA and amino acids hydrate and soothe skin."

It does not contain: Parabens, silicones, synthetic dyes, waxes, harsh detergents, dyes and synthetic perfumes. NO ANIMAL TESTING.

My experience with Grapefruit Face Cleanser: I have been using this cleanser with my Clarisonic in the mornings only for a few weeks, and I must say that the combination of the cleanser and the Clarisonic works wonders. Grapefruit is a natural exfoliator- so between the cleanser and the device I find that my skin and pores are cleaned thoroughly without being stripped of their natural oils. My skin neither feels squeaky clean, nor does it feel tight and uncomfortable after use. I did not find the smell of the grapefruit to be overwhelming, nor did I find it too harsh as I expected it to be. My skin simply felt deliciously fresh and clean. That said, I have decidedly combination skin with an active T-zone, and while I think this is well suited for combination and oilier skin types I have serious questions as to whether people with drier  or sensitive skin types will find this product too astringent. I suspect that the exfoliating effects of the grapefruit extract may be too active for those with dry and/or sensitive skin (at least for use on a daily basis). I would suggest trying a sample before committing to the purchase of the full-sized product- if you find that you are interested in this cleanser (but are uncertain as to whether or not it's a good match for your skin).
Overall assessment: I'm quite pleased with this cleanser- it works wonders on my combination skin. I'm left with clean supple skin that is not stripped, tight, or uncomfortable. However, I am not sure that it is suited for all skin types as they claim. I think that this product may be a touch too active with its exfoliating properties to be a suitable daily cleanser for those with dry skin or sensitive skin. You will have to judge for yourself, but I would try a sample first. It may, however, be a perfect "treatment" cleanser for those with drier skin- to be used on occasion, rather than on a daily basis.

$30.00  8 oz. from Malin+Goetz,  Barneys New York, Bloomingdale's.
Stock images from Main+Goetz

Friday, June 29, 2012

Shannon's Soaps- Lilacs Soap Review

I love lilacs. I love the way they look, the way they smell, the way their delicate fragrance wafts through the air to greet you. They are just the most divine flowers, and I get an unbelievable amount of pleasure looking at mine whenever they are in bloom. As a result of my deep and abiding love for this lovely flower it should come as no surprise that I have a penchant for lovely lilac scented body products. My newest lilac love is Lilacs Soap from Shannon's Soaps- this handmade soap is rich and creamy, and it effectively moisturizes your skin while cleaning it. All of the glorious oils in this soap prevent it from stripping the skin and leaving it dried out. One of the most satisfying things about this gorgeous creamy soap is the lovely and delicate scent of lilacs. Once the bar is wet- the fragrance is released, and it really rouses the senses! I keep this bar in my shower and it makes my entire bathroom smell of lilacs for a while. I have even found that this bar to be wonderful for shaving-- however those with more sensitive skin should probably opt for a fragrance free variety for shaving, or try out Shannon's Soaps Shaving Soap which I plan to try.
Overall assessment: This is a fabulous handmade soap with a delicious scent, and a reasonable price. I LOVE IT!!

$4.00 4.3 oz. from Shannon's Soaps
PR samples provided, but as always the opinions expressed in this review are categorically my own.

Alexander McQueen at Saks- I'm LOVING this Handbag & Shoes!

Alexander McQueen Fall 2012 Collection at Saks Fifth Avenue

Sun Through the Clouds

My husband, who has been an avid surfer his entire life, wakes up at what I consider to be unreasonably early hours to hit the water.  One morning while driving to the beach he captured this miraculous picture of the sun poking through the clouds. What is really surprising, albeit rather dangerous, is the fact that he captured this while driving (on his iPhone and through the sunroof). While I would hardly promote his methodology, I have to confess that the results are stunning.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Chic Swimwear from Barneys

Barneys New York has a very chic take on the lazy days at the beach this summer! There is so much to choose from, but the choices are gorgeous! Photos from Barneys.com





Christian Louboutin Flats with an Attitude! Pigalle Spike Flats with Justine Spike Stud Hobo!

If you are a fan of Christian Louboutin then you might want to have a look at some of the new arrivals at Saks Fifth Avenue. There are many drool-worthy shoes and handbags to ignite your red--sole wearing dreams!
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