Category Archives: Product Reviews

Road Tested: Ultherapy / Dr. Jacono Reviews

We all have our bad beauty days–you wake up and regret the salty food you ate the day before or the extra-late night or the second cocktail. But you get through the day, get some extra shut-eye, eat lots of fruit and veggies and within a day or two your eyes are bright again and your skin glows. Lately though, I’d been noticing it took me a little longer to bounce back and my skin wasn’t as taut as I remembered. I couldn’t blame it on anything but age. My less-than-tight jawline was all I could see when I looked in the mirror and I was hoping there was a solution to reverse this downward shift, short of cosmetic surgery.

I’d heard about Ultherapy and thought it might be just what I was looking for but there were conflicting reports–some people seemed to love their results and others couldn’t even see a difference. Said to improve loose, sagging skin in the face and neck in a significant but completely non-surgical way, Ultherapy is a non-invasive, no-downtime, anti-aging, in-office procedure that uses focused ultrasound waves to bypass the skin’s surface and heat the deep layers of skin tissue, stimulating collagen production for subtle yet visible tightening (the best candidates can expect about a 30% improvement).

I made an appointment with world renowned Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. Andrew Jacono at his NYC office. He explained how the loss of volume in my lower face was contributing to my less than taut jawline. Though everyone is not an ideal candidate for Ultherapy (possibly the reason for the mixed reviews) he  accessed my skin and assured me great results. Apparently, those with a fair-ish, on-the-dry side, thinner-skinned complexions will get better results than those with oily, thicker skin. Since it’s hard for people to determine this on their own, speak to your doctor about your skin type and whether you’re a good candidate for it as well.

Before my treatment I took some Advil to make it a bit easier to handle. Through an imaging window (that looks very much like a computer) Dr. Jacono looked below my skin to determine which specific areas needed the most energy to jumpstart new collagen growth. He marked up my skin like a roadmap (see my before picture) so that Joyce, his Laser Technician/Aesthetician would know the precise locations and depths to direct the energy. I had to stay very still as Joyce used the hand-held transducer  to zap me a few times in each area Dr. J had marked. The whole procedure took about 60 minutes.

It can be uncomfortable at times (especially around the bonier areas), but Joyce was calming and patient as she got the job done. She didn’t even bat an eye when I found that the lamaze breathing I learned many years ago was helping me get through it. In fact, once I started doing the breathing techniques it was quite easy to handle. The second the treatment was over any discomfort was all but forgotten.

Afterwards, I had almost no redness and was able to go about my day as if I hadn’t done anything. I went to a work event and even met a friend for dinner. Over the next week or so I did experience some mild tenderness that almost felt like what a sunburn or mild bruise feels like even though there weren’t any visible marks on my skin. I was actually happy for it since I knew it meant it was working.

Ultherapy prices vary from office to office but it costs approximately $2000 – $6000 depending on the area(s) being treated and the doctor or technician’s expertise. Though it’s non-invasive with no downtime whatsoever, don’t count on a spa-like experience. Basically, Ultherapy heats small, targeted amounts of soft tissue below the surface of the skin to the point that it contracts and the body starts creating new collagen. It’s tricky because the right amount of heat needs to be delivered to the right depths of tissue, without injuring the surface of the skin.Re-building collagen takes time and I was informed that results can take 2-3 months to appear and many clients experience continued gradual lifting and firming for up to 6 months afterwards. My after  photo is taken just 2 months post-treatment and you can already see a more defined jawline, so I’m excited to see this through to the 6 month mark. Though the results aren’t as dramatic as they’d be with surgery, I’m quite pleased. I actually prefer maintenance types of treatments like this that no one will ever mistake for surgery. You’ll look like yourself, but you on your best day all the time.

If you’re looking for a non-invasive, anti-aging treatment with no downtime that can put off (or put an end to) the need for surgery Ultherapy has got what it takes. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

 

 

Add a Pop of Color!

Product Review: Laura Geller Love Me Dew Moisturizing Lip Crayon, $16 at laurageller.com

For someone who doesn’t wear a lot of lipstick, I’m crazy about my new Laura Geller Lip Crayon. I’m loving it in Purple Currant but it also comes in shades of pink, cranberry, plum, orange, coral and more.

Laura Geller Love Me Dew Moisturizing Lip Crayon is the perfect blend of balm, color and shine. It leaves my lips super-moisturized and it never feels tacky.

Since the bright, bold lip trend is going nowhere I keep it in my bag at all times–whenever I need to look good, out it comes and on it goes!

 

(photography courtesy of laurageller.com)

Ballerina Girl

Product Review: Linge Shoes Ballet Flats

I love sky high heels as much as the next girl…as long as I’m sitting down. The moment I have to walk around in them, I’m miserable, which is why my flip-flops get more than their fair share of play time. Looks like my summer staple has some competition.

Enter Linge ballet shoes. They’re made from soft, top-quality leather so they’re super comfy and a breeze to slip on and off. They’re really light (ie. portable!) so perfect to pop in my bag for easy, quick access if I need to step out of my heels and into something that’ll show my feet some love, plus they look great with skirts, dresses, jeans and shorts.

I definitely found a new shoe to get me through the summer. Linge Shoes Ballet Flats are light, super-stylish and come in 12 gorgeous colors–just what the foot-doctor ordered!

Linge Shoes Ballet Flats, $59 at lingeshoes.com.

(photography courtesy of lingeshoes.com)

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Sole Saving

Product Review: Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano

I love a good sandal…and the warm weather had me very excited to go shoe shopping…until I checked out my feet. How didn’t I notice that they’d morphed into something I most certainly didn’t want to show off–my hard, cracked heels and scaly feet needed a remedy and fast!

My crazy, busy schedule meant that the earliest I could book a pedi was a few days away. And then I remembered I had something in my “Products to Review” basket.  The Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano was certainly worth a try and I could even do it while watching Andie whittle down her list of suiters–I know there are other The Bachelorette fans out there!–but I wasn’t canceling my appointment just yet.

Emjoi’s Micro-Pedi Nano is an at-home, hand-held device that gently and easily turns feet silky. The unique roller spins 360 degrees, at an incredible 30 times a second, effectively buffing away hard, dead skin. Really!

It’s completely painless and I actually felt a weird sort of satisfaction watching the dry, hard skin literally turn to dust to reveal the healthier, soft skin below. The fact that it’s  accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association as beneficial to foot health is just the icing on the cake.

Emjoi lived up to its promise and then some. This just might be the miracle solution you’re looking for. It is for me!

To purchase: Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano, $24.95 at emjoi.com

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(photography courtesy of pinterest and emjoi.com)

Quick Fix for a Dull Complexion

Glowy skin is always in!!!

Boost your outer glow with a cream highlighter like my favorite, Jouer Highlighter, $20 at jouer.com. Use your fingers to apply to cheekbones, eyelids, inner corners of eyes, cupid’s bow and above brows to add light your face and instantly look fresh and radiant.

(photography courtesy of Pinterest)

 

Don’t Sweat It!

The one clothing item that’s a “DO” for all body types is the Little Black Dress. It can be dressed up or down, worn with sky high heels or flip flops and always looks chic. Or does it?

As much as the LBD is a fashion “DO”, the deodorant stains that often accompany it are most certainly a “DONT.” It’s that light/dark combo akin to having a neon sign pointing out your fashion faux pas, which brings me to Dry Idea StainClear and why it’s a must-have. It’s formulated with less wax than traditional invisible solids and has encapsulated active ingredients so it protects against stains without compromising protection.

Available in Invisible Solid, Roll-On, Clinical Solid: Dry Idea StainClear $3.49 – $7.99 at mass retailers nationwide.

(photography courtesy of miumiulover.tumblr.com)

 

 

A New Beauty Subscription Service you’ll want in on!

From the Lab is a cool monthly subscription service that works with top beauty research labs to get product delivered to your door 18 months before they’re available to the public! When you become a member you’ll receive a box with up to 3 full-size, high-end skin care, hair care and makeup products. If you love a product you can continue buying it through their online store.

I got a sneak peak at the new Transforming Hair Cleanser No. 724. It’s way different than any shampoo I’ve ever tried before. In the shower, I poured a bit into my palm and was surprised at how oily it felt. I couldn’t imagine putting it into my hair–the thought of past olive oil hair treatments that left me with greasy locks that took numerous shampoos to get out filled me with fear!–but in the name of research for The Beauty Wall I did it.

I massaged No. 724 into my scalp and through my strands. Then, I went to rinse my hands and amazingly my hands had no oily residue on them. I rinsed my hair and thought about adding my usual conditioner (I never go without!) but I wanted a true test so instead, I stepped out of the shower to towel dry. My comb through was easy with no tangles. Instead of harsh sulfates that strip hair of nutrients and protectants Transforming Hair Cleanser No. 724 contains a blend of oils and stem cell technology plus andiroba oil, a new ingredient to the U.S., said to enhance thin, damaged hair by strengthening and promoting new hair growth, while curly and coarse hair is left weightless and tamed. After just one use I noticed how shiny and silky smooth my hair hair looked and felt. Once No. 724 gets into the hands of big beauty companies you can be sure it will retail for way more than the $29.95 starting price for a monthly subscription. I can’t wait to get in on this service! If their other products are half as good as 724 this is one beauty subscription service that’ll be worth every penny!

Click here for more information or to join From the Lab.

Hop On Over to LUSH for Limited Edition Easter Bars, Bubbles and Bombs!

My daughter is addicted to LUSH. She was hooked from the moment she walked into her first LUSH store and now she’s got me hooked, too! The scent envelopes you in the best way possible and has you picking up everything and smelling it. I love to accompany her because every time I step foot in our local LUSH I have the friendliest salespeople offer me a complimentary hand, shoulder, back or scalp massage. And who am I to deny them?

So imagine how excited we both were when I received a limited edition, perfectly-timed for Easter package of LUSH products to review for The Beauty Wall. We tried everything they sent…and the verdict is in. WE LOVE IT ALL!!!

Brightside Bubble Bar, $10.95. Crumble under warm running water. It turns the bath sunset colors as white bubbles fill the tub and a bright,  energizing citrus blend scent fills the air. Feel free to break in half for two baths as this makes a lot of bubbles.

Bunny Bubble Bar, $6.95 was inspired by the white rabbit in Alice in Wonderland. It softens your skin and envelopes you in a creamy candy scent. Break in two as it’s enough for two baths if desired.

Golden Egg Bath Melt Bomb, $8.95 is almost too pretty to use. This gilded egg is perfect for a long soak in the tub. This bomb/ melt hybrid is dusted with a gorgeous golden luster and smells amazing. It leaves behind light and delicious honey/toffee fragrance plus it turns your skin silky.

Fluffy Egg Bath Bomb, $5.95 is Easter personified. It’s a bright, happy, sweet marshmallow and jellybean scented effervescent bath bomb.

Carrot Soap, $7.75 for 1/4 lb. has a bunny hiding in every bar. Formulated with carrot oil, cocoa butter and select essential oils to moisturize, soften and surround your senses. If you love soap like I love soap you’ll love this one.

All LUSH products are cruelty-free. No animal testing! For more information or  LUSH storefront locations, click here.

 

Suncare Stash

You know the drill. Harmful UVA and UVB rays cause skin damage even when it’s cloudy outside. Sunscreen applied each and every day will help maintain the health of your skin and prevent wrinkles, spots and other aging skin damage. Look for chemical sunscreens like those with avobenzone and oxybenzone or physical sunblocks such as those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

To stay safe:

  • Avoid the sun between the peak hours of 10:00am to 2:00pm.
  • Apply generously. The average adult needs a shot-glass full for the body plus an additional 2/3 a teaspoon for the face and neck.
  • Reapply every 2 hours and immediately after swimming, even with water resistant products

My Sun Stash:

Coola Sport SPF 45 Unscented Moisturizer ($32 for 5 oz.) is sweat and water resistant up to 80 minutes, paraben free and ultra sheer plus it’s formulated with 70% certified organic inactive ingredients.

Coola Face SPF 20 Unscented ($36 for 1.7 oz.) works well for sensitive skin. This mineral-based sunblock is hypoallergenic, ultra-sheer and enriched with anti-aging antioxidants.

Mustela Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion 50+ ($22 for 3.4 oz.) is gentle enough for infants thanks to the physical blockers micronized titanium and zinc and is ideal for the most sensitive skin.

Australian Gold Sheer Coverage Continuous Spray SPF 50 with Kona Bronzers ($11.99) gives you an instant sun-kissed glow while it protects you from sun damage. Quickly absorbs, oil-free formula and water resistant for 80 minutes.

Kiss My Face Kids Defense™ with Air Powered Spray™ SPF 50 ($16.99 for 6 oz) combines broad spectrum sunscreen with a blend of Antioxidants for extra protection. It’s water resistant for 40 minutes, clear and rub free plus it sprays at any angle so it’s easy to cover those hard to reach places.

Kiss My Face Face Factor SPF 30 for Face and Neck with Hydresia®  ($12.95 for 2 oz ) has UVA and UVB protection plus natural peptides and extracts to combat aging and skin soothing ingredients.

Kiss My Face Sensitive Side™ SPF 30 ($12.95 for 4 oz) is non irritating for sensitive skin thanks to soothing Oat Protein , Green Tea and Carrot Extract and extra moisturizing.

eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Lemon Drop ($3.29) protects lips with SPF 15, Vitamin E and natural oils so lips stay soft, moist and protected.

(featured image courtesy of Pinterest)

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Shiseido Sheer Eye Zone Corrector

Product Review: Shiseido Sheer Eye Zone Corrector

Yes, there have been other concealer pens…but none as good as this one!

If you like the convenience and precision of getting a concealer that really covers in a handy, travels-well pen, then this is what you’ve been searching for. I for one, am infatuated with it. Shiseido’s Sheer Eye Zone Corrector has a silky smooth texture and sets to a comfortable long-wearing  finish that really does stay put all day. Simply swipe it under the eyes, at the outer and inner corner and even a touch on your lids and dark shadows and blemishes all but disappear. If only it were permanent!

To purchase: Shiseido Sheer Eye Zone Corrector, $30 at shiseido.com.