Get Innovative with August Sephora Play!
Innovation is the destination with Play! By Sephora this August - Check out my thoughts below on what I received this month.
Lancer The Method: Polish
ITEM 1869064 CAD $105.00 for 8 oz.
What Is It?
This ‘daily polish’ is an exfoliant that is to be used as a resurfacing treatment. It is the first step in the in The Lancer Method. It is formulated with pure minerals and pumpkin & pomegranate enzymes to gently and effectively remove surface debris and dull, dry surface cells. It also has a warming element and Lavender scent.
Good For: Antiaging and Normal & Dry Skin
Solutions For: Dryness, Dullness and uneven texture, Blackheads and enlarged pores
Formulated Without: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates
What’s Nice About It?
Dr. Lancer is known for his “Lancer Method” which has been developed using technologically advanced, active ingredient-focused products designed to improve the overall health and appearance of skin, while also giving patients the sought-after ‘Lancer Glow.’
Other Niceties
The Lancer Method, is based on a biological principle universal to all skin: the cellular cycle of renewal. It supports cell renewal through manual exfoliation. In following this it promises to deliver beautiful, glowing results to all skin types while improving the appearance of fine lines, texture, discoloration, and pore size.
First Impression
I had never really heard of the Lancer brand before and was intrigued by its many promises of luminous skin and of course backed by first-class dermatology, utmost luxury, and true efficacy – what’s not to like, right? After doing some initial research (as I always do before trying any product) I was concerned about the mixture of potentially irritating ingredients such as the alkaline sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) , and fragrance adding lavender oil. This combined with the scrub agent of magnesium oxide had me having visions of irritation. I was still hoping to glow but was significantly concerned about my skins reaction as I try to stay away from harsh ingredients and remain fragrance free as much as possible.
Application Reflection
I opened the tube and felt the gritty gel like texture - it seemed harmless enough and like a pretty typical exfoliant. The smell was not strong at first but then upon application the lavender smell intensified. The grit was almost crystal-like and almost impossible to get off. I was very gentle when applying this product and still I found myself scrounging for the little particles all over my face while attempting to rinse it off. I did not like the feeling of it on my skin and I could feel my skin not liking it in return. Upon rinsing it off I noticed it was visibly red.
Where I Stand
I had very high hopes for this product. Perhaps this product really must be used in combination with the others in order to be effective because no matter what I paired it with it after a few attempts I just could not make it work.
Love It, Leave It, Try It, Buy It
Leave It – Unless you are willing to try out the whole line and follow the complete regimen of the “Lancer Method” and your skin can handle a little bit more when it comes to exfoliation.
Clinique Dual-Ended High Impact Mascara & Primer Duo
CLINIQUE Lash Building Primer
ITEM 741967 C$21.00
What Is It?
A lash-conditioning undercoat which contains a unique polymer combination that holds mascara to lashes for a longer, fuller look with extended wear. The moisturizing formula also helps to condition and mend dry lashes.
CLINIQUE High Impact Mascara
ITEM 711267 CAD $23.00
What Is It?
A richly-pigmented, volumizing mascara that instantly lengthens and defines each and every lash.
Formulated Without: Parabens
What’s Nice About It?
This product is ophthalmologist tested, allergy-tested, and is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. It is free of fragrance.
Other Niceties
I was excited to see that this was a duo with both mascara and primer. I know it will probably reside in my travel makeup bag or tag along with me to work when my lashes need a boost.
First Impression
The packaging was nice and the brushes were average in size and length. There was no smell to either product which I happen to love when it comes to products especially around my sensitive eyes.
Application Reflection
Both the primer and mascara went on smooth and even. I felt the primer did feel moisturizing on my lashes and did add a good deal of length which then was covered seamlessly by the mascara which had a decent colour payoff.
Where I Stand
I liked it, but I have other mascaras that just pack more of a punch like the IT Cosmetics Superhero mascara which I received in my last Play box. I like a little more volume and a little more depth of colour.
Love It, Leave It, Try It, Buy It
Try It – If you are looking for a mascara that will lengthen this is a good bet from a great brand.
Hourglass Vanish™ Seamless Finish Foundation Stick
ITEM 1827344 SIZE 0.25 oz C$56.00
What Is It?
Hourglass touts this foundation as a long-wearing foundation stick with the coverage of a concealer, fluidity of a liquid, and weightlessness of a powder for invisible, full coverage.
Good For: All Skin Types
Coverage: Medium to Full
Finish: Satin
Formulated Without: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates
What’s Nice About It?
Hourglass described this product as a “foundation and concealer in one, this foundation’s concentrated formula is infused with double the amount of pigment versus traditional foundations for instant full coverage in one application. The long-wearing, waterproof formula provides 12-hour coverage. Encased in a unique triangular bullet for precise application along the contours of the face, it can be used to contour and highlight.”
Other Niceties
It features an array of shades and is a poured liquid formula designed to adjust to your own body temperature.
First Impression
As a lover of Hourglass products I was super excited to find this in my box as I have watched many reviews and beauty gurus that swear by this foundation. The tube was teeny tiny and not in the triangular packaging which for me was always a selling point because of its ability to fit into the contours of your face. The foundation itself seemed to be an appropriate shade and good consistency.
Application Reflection
It was fast and easy to apply and blended out nicely. The texture was smooth and the colour match was surprisingly accurate for a subscription box. I did notice however that it did accentuate some areas and make my pores seem more visible not less especially around my nose and cheeks. After a few uses I did not see a significant improvement in my skins appearance. It did have decent coverage and camouflage some imperfections but I found I needed to add more product to get the desired amount of coverage. I did notice that I liked it a lot more as time went on as opposed to the look on initial application.
Where I Stand
If I were looking for a great travel foundation that would be easy to pack and still get the job done this would be a great option. However, I just don’t think it is justifiable for the price. It seems like a lot of money for a product that in my opinion is just on the higher end of okay. I could spend a few more dollars and get something I know I love a whole lot more. I think if you were looking to buy this product definitely wait for a Sephora Beauty Insider Sale where you can get a few dollars off.
Love It, Leave It, Try It, Buy It
Definitely Try It - and if you are a girl on the go who loves a quick and easy effective foundation this is the one for you.
beautyblender® micro.mini
ITEM 1619527SIZE 2 x beautyblender® micro mini C$26.00
What Is It?
A mini sponge applicator that doubles in size once wet—making it easy to contour, highlight, and precisely apply makeup onto the smallest parts of the face.
What’s Nice About It?
This makeup blender lets you perfect makeup application in the inner eye corners, brow bones, sides of nose, cheeks, and more. Designed with exclusive beautyblender® material and one fourth the size of the original sponge, this non-disposable micro.mini sponge is the perfect tool for concealing small areas.
Other Niceties
This product is an Allure Best of Beauty winner. This micro.mini sponge features an open cell structure that fills with a small amounts of water when wet. This allows the sponge to be “full” so that the product sits on top of the sponge rather than being absorbed, allowing you to use less product every time. When wet, beautyblender doubles in size and becomes even softer, returning to its original size once it air dries.
First Impression
Boy oh boy, was this item teeny tiny and how am I going to use it.
Application Reflection
It worked extremely well - just as any beauty blender does. There is definitely a reason why this brand is so popular. It made blending around those hard to reach areas much easier.
Where I Stand
This was one of those products I never knew I needed and I am therefore so thankful for some of the products that come in subscription boxes. This little wonder is just perfect for those spots my brushes and fingers just can’t get to as well. It will be great for everyday use and travel.
Love It, Leave It, Try It, Buy It
Love It – It was a wonderful addition to my play box and will be an excellent addition to anyone’s beauty arsenal.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo
ITEM 1722198 1.8 oz CAD $16.00 4oz $29.00
What Is It?
A dry shampoo that absorbs oil, sweat, and odor for ultra-clean hair, plus a time-release fragrance that delivers a light, clean scent all day.
Good For: All hair types and colors.
Solutions For: Second day hair and beyond.
Formulated Without: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates
What’s Nice About It?
Odor neutralizers eliminate unwanted smells, and a time-release fragrance releases a light, refreshing, long-lasting scent. The spray nozzle is efficient.
Other Niceties
A patented OFPMA molecule reduces the surface friction on hair.
First Impression
I was excited to see this in my box as I have heard many great things about it and enjoy my Living Proof Volume Blast.
Application Reflection
I let my hair go unwashed for two days as I really wanted a truthful test of this product and see if it really could absorb oil and sweat and leave me with ultra clean hair. I used the dry shampoo exactly as directed. It did not absorb a great deal of the oil but I did like the fresh smell. The one thing I was definitely not pleased with was the white residue it left behind. I am currently a medium brunette (I typically go darker in the fall and winter months) and this left an immediate and persistent white cast. The website did warn against the white residue stating “A little residue that can be easily removed is expected (that’s the cleaning in the works). If you experience more than that, make sure you shake the can and hold it farther from your head. Use a bristle brush and/or blow dryer to remove visible powders.” I tried these added steps and no improvement was shown – the more I messed with it my hair became greasy and flat all over again.
Where I Stand
This product just did not live up to the hype for me and my lengthy brunette locks. I use a similar product DryBar Triple Sec and experience fresh, natural and better smelling hair without the hassle of the extra steps. Perhaps this product would be better suited for people that have lighter or shorter hair. For me it just did not get the job done and I will continue to love my DryBar product and my Living Proof Volume Blast More.
Love It, Leave It, Try It, Buy It
Leave It – if you are a dry shampoo collector or have lighter and shorter hair – this is one to try but if you aren’t leave this one on the shelf.
This fragrance boasts to be “A stunning perfume, overwhelming and irresistible like the joy of living. The scent is surprisingly colored with the liveliness of Sicilian citron, the happiness of Granny Smith apple, and the spontaneity of bluebells. Feminine and resolute notes are expressed with the intensity of jasmine, the freshness of bamboo, and the charm of white rose. The deep and true base embodies the character of cedarwood, the fullness of amber, and the embrace of musk.”
Notes: Sicilian Citron, Bluebell, Granny Smith Apple, Jasmine Sambac, Bamboo, White Rose, Cedarwood, Amber, Musk.
This perfume evokes feelings of nostalgia for me as I wore it a lot years ago during university and it is a lovely blend that makes you feel fresh and feminine. Even though it was a nice walk down memory lane I will not be repurchasing the large bottle because I just don’t live there anymore and am onto other scents.
Overall
I think this box was good with a couple hits and a couple misses but once again allowed me to experience brands I had not tried. I will continue to enjoy my beautyblender, the hourglass foundation and the mascara but will be leaving misses behind.
What did you get in your box this month?
Are any of these products your faves?
Let me know below.
With Nice Things,
Andrea
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