Bright Eyes: Origins GinZing Eye Cream

Hi beauties!

Lately, I’ve been waking up with puffy eyes and dark circles.

I’m not sure whether it’s due to allergies or lack of sleep, but makeup isn’t doing the trick.

Origins Refreshing Eye Cream to Brighten and Depuff is one of the solutions that was recommended to me for puffiness, dark circles, and dullness.

With a formula of Panax ginseng to combat signs of fatigue and caffeine from coffee beans to soothe skin around the eyes, GinZing eye cream brightens the eye area and helps to reduce bags and puffiness.

First Impressions

I applied the eye cream in the AM with my ring finger (per the directions), and I’ve seen just a slight improvement in eye puffiness. Of course, I’m hoping for more results over time.

What I like best about the GinZing cream is the light-reflecting and brightening properties.

Used alone or with concealer, a dab of the cream leaves behind a subtle light-reflecting shimmer that helps brighten the eye area and makes you look like you’ve had a good night’s sleep 😴 . . . even if you’ve been up all night.

Advertisements

All Natural Sun Protection: LASPA Mineral Sunscreen

Hi beauties!

Even though sunscreen season is every season, sometimes it takes hot, sunny weather to remind me to refresh my suncare choices.

Just in time, I was introduced to all natural sun protection from Canadian brand, LASPA Naturals.

Created by a mother (Susan Mey) who couldn’t find a sunscreen that worked for her daughter’s sensitive skin, LASPA products feature high-quality zinc that’s very fine and spreads evenly.

If you’re looking for an alternative to chemical-based sunscreen products (with ingredients no one can pronounce), LASPA’s clinically tested products are a safe and effective way to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.

Besides zinc oxide, LASPA’s non-greasy SPF formula contains essential oils and plant materials. Also, none of their products contain parabens, artificial fragrances/colours, gluten, or soy!

Here are the details on LASPA’s hypoallergenic mineral suncare products.

LASPA SPF 30 Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen

This hydrating sunscreen is perfect for protecting and moisturizing sensitive skin. The consistency is rich, but not greasy (it soaks into the skin quickly). I used just a small amount of the fragrance‑free sunscreen to cover my face and neck.

The sunscreen delivers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and 80 minutes of water/sweat resistance. If you’re travelling this summer, the sunscreen comes in a travel-friendly (TSA approved) 80 ml tube.

To use the sunscreen, apply it evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure, and re-apply at least every 2 hours.

LASPA SPF 20 Daily Sun Protection Mineral Sunscreen Lotion

This translucent sunscreen lotion for face and body can easily be incorporated into a daily skincare regime. I applied it under makeup (and on my very pale arms) before heading outside.

The texture of the lotion is silky due to organic coconut oil and applies smoothly (it dries matte without looking chalky). The lotion can double as your moisturizer, while counteracting the damaging effects of sun rays with vitamin E.

Like the SPF 30 sunscreen, this lotion is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes so splash away!

To use the lotion, apply it evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure, and re-apply at least every 2 hours.

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen Benefits

If you’ve ever wondered why mineral ingredients are a healthier choice for sun protections, here’s why. Zinc oxide is a natural mineral sun block that sits on top of your skin and stops both UA and UB rays from penetrating your skin. This is in comparison to the synthetics used by chemical sunscreens to reflect the sun’s rays after they have penetrated the skin’s surface.

The bottom line with sunscreen is that when it’s comfortable and smooth, you’ll want to apply it (and re-apply). A natural sunscreen like LASPA makes taking care of your skin all-year round easy and luxurious.

LASPA Naturals at spas and resorts across Canada, as well as online at www.beautysense.ca. For more information about LASPA Naturals, check out www.laspanaturals.com, or their Facebook or Instagram page.

x

Disclaimer: Media samples provided, all opinions are my own.

x

e.l.f. Prep & Play Ensemble

Hi beauties,

When I need a little pick me up (or my makeup addiction kicks into gear), my first stop is usually the e.l.f. Cosmetics aisle. I love most of their cruelty free cosmetics/skincare and the price is right!

I picked up the e.l.f. Prep & Play Lip Ensemble on sale at Rexall Drugstore (in Vancouver) earlier this year.

Even though it may be hard to find this kit right now, I thought I’d review the items that came in the kit, since they can be purchased separately.

Lip Lacquer (Natural)

This lip lacquer features the look of a lip gloss and a lip tint with shine and color. The Vitamin E enriched formula with a subtle vanilla scent is moisturizing and smooth. The texture isn’t tacky or sticky, and the color payoff is quite good.

The Natural shade is a pretty old-fashioned neutral shade (like the peachy shades that started the whole nude craze courtesy of the sisters with a name that starts with a “K”). You can wear the 10 e.l.f. Lip Lacquer shades alone or layered over lipstick for a bolder look.

Lip Exfoliator (Sweet Cherry)

The Lip Exfoliator (in a clear shade) comes in a tube and is shaped like a lipstick. This format lets you easily rub it across your lips and gently remove dead skin.

The texture is similar to a lip balm (sugar-type) that moisturizes and keeps lip soft. The formula contains Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Avocado, Grape, and Jojoba Oils to nourish and protect. Even better, the lip exfoliator has a subtle sweet scent of cherry pie. 🍒

The bottom line with e.l.f. kits is that if you see one on sale, don’t hesitate. You can try out the products at a lower price, and purchase them separately if they hit the right note.