Project Pan Them All | February Empties

Hi ladies! I know, my last post was two weeks ago, but here is my excuse - I recently started TSW (topical steroid withdrawal), which prevents my body from functioning normally - I can barely eat and sleep, I can't work, and some days, I can't even walk properly. I am planning to write a whole post about this, but in the meantime, please bear with the lack of posts.

Before realizing I was suffering from TSW, I tried all kinds of body lotions, creams and butters to moisturize my red, itchy, irritated skin, but nothing would do, not even Basil Lemon Extra Moisturizing Body Butter for dry skin, that I used to love thanks to its great creamy texture and it's fresh and sweet smell.

Containing 1/3 nourishing milk, Uriage Crème Lavante Soap-Free Liquid Cleanser is one of the most gentle product I have used on my poor TSW skin. I really enjoy the pleasant light, fresh and "clean" fragrance of this cleanser, but its texture is not really consistent, which makes it hard to dispense the proper amount of product, despite the convenient pump packaging. I have to use a fair amount of product to produce a fine, creamy, easy-to-rinse foam, but I guess that for a soap-free cleanser, it's fairly good. I loved how this prodct never left my skin parched after showering.

When I realized that nothing worked to soothe my TSW skin, I dug out Dr Hess Udder Ointment to use it as a protective layer on my skin, since its texture actually reminds me a little of Vaseline. It is not especially moisturizing but it did make my skin a bit more comfortable for a few hours.

I kept hearing about the wonders of coconut oil but I have always loathed oily products on my skin - it just drives me crazy! When I received Adara Organic Virgin Coconut Oil to try, I had no choice but to use it to properly test it... yes, it does soothe and moisturize my skin greatly, but still, that oily texture... yuck! To be honest, I quickly forgot about it and put it away. But recently, since starting the TSW process, my skin could not tolerate any moisturizer so I looked for natural alternatives, and I realized it was the time to give another chance to coconut oil. Which I did, but it did not work wonders - my skin is so raw and sensitive that it just won't tolerate anything - which bring me to MW (moisturizer withdrawal), which I will talk about more in another post.

I still can't believe how Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil Deep Hydrating Treatment worked wonders on saving my hair! It has a great creamy texture so it does not make a mess in the shower, and you really don't need a lot of product at once. My hair was left incredibly smooth, soft, shiny and easily manageable!

Project Pan Them All | January Empties

I am pretty proud of myself since I seem to be on a roll with all of those empties! Next month might be disappointing since I just started using a few new products but oh well, you can't have it all every time, right?

I like to spray Marc Anthony Salon Expert Keratin Miracle Frizz-Smoother Leave-in evenly on my damp hair to ensure easy detangling and super smooth hair - it never fails to leave it incredibly soft, hydrated and manageable. I have been using it every time I wash my hair since I got it, and I can really certify that it is a miracle product! This is really my favorite product of the Salon Expert range and I am wondering if I will ever find an alternative that is just as great.

Elin Bianco Treatment Mask has been absolutely wonderful to revive my dry hair, especially after coming back from Europe this summer, since I did not bring any conditioner and I did not look after my hair at all for a whole month... or two. The texture is amazingly perfect - it feels thick, almost like a styling paste, so it never makes a mess in the shower. My hair was left incredibly soft and smooth after the first use!

When I first started using MAKE UP FOR EVER Smoky Extravagant, I found the formula to be way too wet for my liking - there was so much product on the brush that I had to wipe it on a tissue before each use and between each coat! Also, the mascara took forever to dry. I was happy to see the formula improve after a few weeks though, and I was left with volumized, lengthened and defined lashes that actually held a curl all day - and I have the straightest lashes ever! - after only one coat. I like to build up to three coats with this mascara for maximum effect, but be careful because it tends to start clumping at the third coat.

KORRES Quercetin & Oak Antiageing & Antiwrinkle Eye Cream is probably my all-time favorite eye cream, since it's almost a miracle for me to have found a rich and extremely moisturizing eye cream that doesn't give me milia! I can't comment on the dark circles and pufiness claims though since I mainly use eye cream as a prevention but also to keep my delicate eye area moisturized as it gets eczema flare-ups very easily.

I am usually very happy with their body butters, but The Body Shop Brazil Nut Body Butter has been such a let down! It failed to calm my itchy and dry skin caused by eczema and it did not even seem to moisturize it, although it is said to be formulated for dry skin... even pure aloe vera did a better job than this product! Huge disappointment.

I have not tried a lot of their cleansers but LUSH Let The Good Times Roll was a pleasant surprise! Since I have dry and eczema-prone skin, I was happy to learn that, despite providing deep exfoliation, Let the Good Times Roll is gentle enough for everyone to use - my skin was not left tight or drier, instead, I could feel it being super soft and refreshed! Did you know that this best-seller was a holiday product that’s now a permanent part of LUSH's cleansers range?

Another product I was recommended for my eczema by the doctor I consulted when I had my monstruous allergic reaction after I went swimming in a supposedly radioactive lake this summer is Pro-Derm PostX2, which is supposed to be a miraculous moisturizer... but of course, I did not notice any improvment. Another almost $70 thrown out the window... thanks eczema.

I was given Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion* some times ago but I did not want to use it since it is not cruelty-free, but I must admit it came in handy - at least temporarily - to calm those rashes I was struggling with after my adventure in the radioactive lake. It did relieve my itchy and extra dry skin thanks to cooling menthol and colloidal oatmeal, but with ingredients such as parabens and alcohol, I knew this was not a long-term solution, so whn I ran out, I purchased some aloe vera as a more natural replacement.

I asked a pharmacist which supplement was recommended for vegetarians and he told me that plant foods do not contain vitamin B12, but that as a lacto-ovo-vegetarian, I could obtain most of mine from milk, dairy products, and eggs. The requirement for vitamin B12 is very low, but it is essential, so I decided to give Jamieson B12 a try anyway. I also purchased Jamieson Vita-Vim Vegetarian which I seem to prefer since it provides a full complement of nutrients necessary to support daily metabolic processes, and allows one to optimally use food to help generate energy, combat fatigue, and resist infection. 

In my attempt to soothe my eczema flare-ups, I decided to try Uremol 20 Intense Relief Moisturizing Cream since I have heard urea has been clinically shown to temporarily relieve minor skin irritation and soothe dry, itcy skin. It was not very effective though since it burned my skin so much when I applied it! Once again, aloe vera seems to do a better job than this chemical-filled product.

KORRES Wild Rose Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial, was great for my dry skin. I absolutely love the weightless soufflé texture that instantly melts into my skin to leave it extremely smooth, soft and moistured by morning, and best of all, this product won't leave your face - or pillow, or hair! - even the slightest greasy!

*Please note that Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion is NOT cruelty-free

Project Pan Them All | October/November Empties

Hi ladies! It seems I completely forgot to post my October empties so I will be showing you my November empties also in this article. I have not a lot of empties again, but I am slowly making it through my huge stash of body lotions, which makes me happy since winter is already here and I can't wait to whip out some heavier body butters!

I have not been using a lot of bath products lately since my skin has been acting up since this summer, where I went swimming somewhere I should not have been... but I managed to treat myself to Bomb La Bon Bon Mr. Smith Bubble Bar, which really makes tons of bubble, and it smells just like green apples!

My hairdresser urged me to take better care of my hair when I went back from France this summer, since I did not bring any conditioner with me and I still can't believe how Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil Deep Hydrating Treatment worked wonders on saving my fried hair! It has a great creamy texture so it does not make a mess in the shower, and you really don't need a lot of product at once. My hair was left incredibly smooth, soft, shiny and easily manageable!

I also used up a few eczema treatments in the past month, probably due to the fact that I was really stressed about not having a job when I came back from France. Elocom Oitment 0.1% (corticosteroid), Topicort Desoximetasone Cream USP 0.25% (corticosteroid emollient cream) and Protopic Tacrolimus Ointment 0.1% are just a few of the prescriptions I have been using for the past years and nothing really works on the long term.

I still can't believe how quickly I use up SeabuckWonders Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion! It does calm the itchiness due to eczema, and I don't feel the need to re-apply this lotion until my next shower, but it is sadly not the most moisturizing product I have tried.

PUPA Vamp! Mascara is definitely HG material! My lashes are left thick, full, dense and fluttery after only a few strokes, and I absolutely love how this mascara holds the curl of my lashes all day, without smudging or flaking. Two coats is all I need for amazing volume and length!

The consistency of HT26 Extra Moisturising & Nourishing Body Milk is surprisingly not a runny mess and it is absorbed into the skin within seconds, without leaving greasy residues behind. I swear that after the first use, my skin felt incredibly comfortable and it did not itch until my next shower the night after - this is a big win for someone who is struggling with eczema! Also, you only need a small quantity of product since this milk is easily spreadable and you can be sure that this ginormous bottle (500mL) will last you a long time! Oh, and let's not forget about the smell, which is a bit powdery and reminds me of baby products - very pleasant!

New Additions to Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil

Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil products already have a precious place in my heart since they are so great at pampering my poor hair - please don't hesitate to have a look at my review of their Argan Oil shampoo, conditioner and treatment. I was really excited when a lovely package containing the latest additions to this range landed on my doorstep!

I was the most excited about the Argan Oil Deep Hydrating Treatment ($2.99) since the last time I had my hair done after returning from France, my hairdresser urged my to do many, many treatments if I wanted to revive my hair - yes, it was that bad (ladies, please pack hair conditioner when travelling - I learned my lesson the hard way!). Enriched with argan oil, keratin and grape seed oil to combat damage, breakage, split ends, dryness, dullness and frizz, this therapeutic remedy deeply penetrates leaving hair hydrated, restored, fortified and nourished with added strength and luster.

Let me tell you, I was absolutely blown away by how well this product performed! It has a great creamy texture so it does not make a mess in the shower, and you really don't need a lot of product at once. My hair was left incredibly smooth, soft, shiny and easily manageable! I must admit I was not a fan of the packaging at first, until I realized it was intended for a one-time use. Since my hair is not the thickest and it is not super long, one sachet lasts me quite a while!

smooth and shiny hair after using Argan Oil Deep Hydrating Treatment

I rarely blow dry my hair and I don't really have frizz problem, but I was curious about Argan Oil 3-Day Smooth Perfect Blow Dry Cream ($10.99), which claims to hold hair straight, frizz free and shiny for up to 3 days, thanks to a unique combination of ultra-light Mediterranean olive oil, argan oil and shea butter. Marc Anthony's exclusive anti-frizz lock technology makes curls and waves desirably straight, and keratin deeply penetrates to strengthen while vitamin E nourishes.

After rubbing the cream in the palm of my hands and working evenly through damp hair from roots to ends, I proceeded to blow dry my hair to create a frizz-free, smooth finish. My hair was left glossy and ultra-smooth imediately after, although I did not find this result to last up to three days - or until my next wash.

The exotic fast absorbing Argan Oil Dry Styling Oil ($10.99) goes on dry and revives dry, damaged hair. It is infused with keratin, ultra-light Mediterranean olive oil and argan oil to fortify hair and help correct damage, split ends, dullness and frizz, while vitamin E and shea butter deeply penetrate to hydrate, soften and protect. Hair is left nourished, revitalized and full of shine.

I like how this product can be used on damp and dry hair - I personally like to spritz it just before flat ironing my hair. It doesn not seem ike you can use too much, since it is absorbed quickly and it never feels greasy. It smells amazing and it leaves my hair amazingly smooth and shiny! It is definitely a staple in my haircare routine.

Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil products are available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart and other retailers.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Project No 'Poo | Hair Care Routine

Hi ladies! It has been around three months now since I started the no 'poo regimen, and I am happy to report that the worst is now behind me - I am not scared anymore to wake up to a greasy mess on my head and I almost don't freak out if I don't have any baking soda on hand. The transition period lasted a bit longer than expected for me (around three months), but it's nothing I could not overcome if I made sure to take proper precautions, and in this post, I want to share with you the products I have been relying on since the start of this journey.

In my first month update post, I mentionned that my preferred way of applying the baking soda and water mixture was my Roots Only Hair Color Applicator Comb, since the comb allow the right amount of mixture to be applied directly to the scalp and roots trough hollow teeth, not touching the rest of the hair. Since it is guaranteed not to leak, it is virtually 100% mess-free!

I have had Raw Gaia Shikakai Hair Wash in my stash for some times now but to be honest, I tried it only once (more than a year ago, probably) and I thought it was just too messy so I totally forgot about it, until last month! Shikakai means "fruit for hair" and is a 100% natural shampoo powder. It is an excellent cleanser, naturally removing the dirt and excess oil accumulated on the scalp, but it does not strip the hair of its natural oils. Moreover, it detangles the hair and works wonders as a natural conditioner. Shikakai also provides new life to hair strands, strengthens hair roots, increases bounciness and silkiness of hair, promotes hair growth and slightly darken hair.

Now that I am used to non-traditional ways of washing my hair, I thought it was time to give this product another try, and I can only be mad at myself for not using it regularly sooner! Of course it is a bit messy, just like washing with baking soda, but once you get used to it, it is really simple and easy to use. You simply create a thick paste by mixing a small amount of Shikakai powder with water, gently massage it into the scalp and hair using your fingertips, wait 2 to 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water. Each time I use this product, my hair is left super soft and full of volume - what more can I ask for?

Another product I am sorry I did not use regularly sooner is Marc Anthony Salon Expert Sea Kelp Extreme Rescue Mud, which is a weekly deep repair for extra dry, damaged hair. It is formulated with sea kelp to correct, hydrate and strengthen, while the power of antioxidants, protein and silk amino acids promote healthy, rich color. Advanced Color Care Technology prevents hair from dulling.

Now this is not your typical hair mask - since it is made with mud, it feels very runny and it has a rather interesting grey-brown color. It is designed to be used on damp scalp and hair after shampooing and conditioning, one to three times a week. It feels really good to massage into the scalp and I like to leave it on for as long as I can, usually when I take a bath. I swear my hair has never felt this soft or looked this glossy after using this treatment!

After washing my hair with baking soda or with water, of course, I never skip conditioner, but since they are always on rotation in my shower, I chose not to feature a specific one in this post, and to write about two of my favorite leave-in conditioners instead. I have had Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-In Conditioning Cream* in my stash for such a long time (before going cruelty-free!) and in an attempt to use it, I try to use it after each wash on the ends of my hair.

I like to spray Marc Anthony Salon Expert Keratin Miracle Frizz-Smoother Leave-in evenly on my damp hair to ensure easy detangling and super smooth hair - it never fails to leave it incredibly soft, hydrated and manageable. I have been using it every time I wash my hair since I got it, and I can really certify that it is a miracle product! This is really my favorite product of the Salon Expert range.

I try to apply oil on the ends of my hair every night before bed and my current favorite is Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil Treatment, which is a daily, lightweight oil for strong, glossy, frizz-free hair. I only need one small drop for my shoulder-length hair, but even though I sometimes use too much product, it never leaves greasy residue! The day after, I wake up to extremely soft, smooth, shiny and tangle-free hair - the first times I used this product, I could barely believe how well it worked!

I hope you enjoyed this post and stay tuned for my next no 'poo update in a month!

*Please note that this product is NOT cruelty-free

Marc Anthony Salon Expert Color Care

There is an unmistakable beauty to vibrant, shiny, healthy looking hair that looks like you have just stepped out of the salon and no matter your hair type or style, this is a result that each and every woman wants to achieve - that’s why all Salon Expert products have been developed with Advanced Color Care Technology to enhance vibrancy and shine, whether your hair is natural or color treated.

Everyday natural elements can harm your hair’s chemical bonds - the effects become evident as color begins to fade and hair looks damaged. Salon Expert is formulated with ingredients proven to reduce damage and breakage, leaving your hair and its color protected and shine enhanced.

To be honest, I have never found the miracle product that would really protect my hair color and prevent it from fading, and I am not even sure if such product exists, but since I have mostly been impressed with Marc Anthony products, I was happy to be given the opportunity to try this range of products especially since I dyed my hair burgundy this summer, which, we all know, requires extra rigorous maintenance. 

Formulated with Acai Berry to gently cleanse, fortify and correct the look and feel of your hair, the gentle antioxidant rich Color Save Shampoo ($14.99) does restore vibrancy that shines. It is also supposed to protect color with Advanced Color Care Technology, but sadly, it just did not do it for me and I had to watch my precious hair color run down the drain with every wash. I also need to use a lot of product even though I now have short hair, because it does not foam really well. The Color Lock Conditioner ($14.99) did not seem to do much either color wise even though it is supposed to prevent color dulling, although it does moisturize my hair, but nothing more than any other conditioner though.

Because the conditioner fails to detangle my hair, I have to rely on the Keratin Miracle Frizz-Smoother Leave-in ($14.99), which is a light yet powerful daily leave-in conditioner for all hair types that is absolutely amazing at detangling my hair in seconds, and it never fails to leave it incredibly soft, hydrated and manageable. As if it was not enough, this product is also said to keeps color visibly rich - although I did not really notice a difference - and it protects against heat damage. I have been using it every time I wash my hair since I got it, and I can really certify that it is a miracle product! This is really my favorite product of the range.

The last product of the Salon Expert Color Care range I have tried is the Color Shine Extra Hold Hairspray ($14.99), but it was a bit of a let down since it is far from providing an all-day hold - within an hour, my hair lost its curl and fell flat every time I used this! I do appreciate that it does not leave my hair stiff, crunchy or sticky, and that it provides shine and flexible restyling - oh, and let's not forget the fruity floral smell! - but since it fails to keep my hair curled, it is uselessfor me.

Overall, I am a bit surprised that Marc Anthony Argan Oil and Macadamia Oil products protect my hair color better than these Color Care products, which have been created especially for this, but still, I am absolutely in love with the Keratin Miracle Frizz Smoother!

Marc Anthony Salon Expert Color Care also includes the Amplifying Texture Spray,  Volumizing Blowout Cream and Sea Kemp Rescue Mud  ($14.99 each) and the range is available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Marc Anthony Repairing Macadamia Oil

The Repairing Macadamia Oil collection is formulated with Macadamia Oil, an extra lightweight oil with a similar consistency to natural body oils that easily penetrates the cuticle for deep hydration. Coupled with bamboo extract, it is a strengthening and restorative duo for damaged, lifeless hair. Bamboo extract contains protein which helps retain moisture in the hair shaft and assists in filling and smoothing the roughened cuticle of damaged hair. A rich source of silica, it has incredible strengthening properties for hair. The Repairing Macadamia Oil collection is truly luxury hair care!

Since I was so happy with Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil products - they truly helped my dry and damaged hair! - I was super excited to try this new collection! 

The thick but lightweight Repairing Macadamia Oil Shampoo ($9.99 for 250ml / 8.4 fl.oz) helps to correct damaged, dull looking hair and revives damaged strands - I was impressed at how quickly it softens hair and reveals a natural luster. The best part? It is safe on color! Because this shampoo feels so moistirizing, I feel like it really protects my color from fading more than many other shampoos specifically desined for color-treated hair I have tried. It is claimed that bamboo extract helps to strengthen the hair follicle to promote stronger, healthier hair growth., which I am curious to see if it will work with continuous use. I also really like the ultra nourishing Repairing Macadamia Oil Conditioner ($9.99 for 250ml / 8.4 fl.oz), which intensely moisturizes and revitalizes dry, overworked hair. The formula is  lightweight enough to never weight my hair down, but it is thick enough to coat it just like a hair mask. 

I was curious to see how the Repairing Macadamia Oil Treatment ($9.99 for 50ml / 1.69 fl.oz) would compare to the Argan Oil Treatment, which leaves my hair extremely soft, smooth, shiny and tangle-free, and you know what? I actually think the Macadamia Oil one works even better! It is less runny in texture - more like a gel - and it penetrates quickly to combat damage and dryness on a daily basis. It is advised to apply 1 - 3 drops (depending on hair length and thickness) to damp or dry hair, but I only need one drop on my shoulder-length hair, so this little bottle will definitely last me a long time! I prefer to apply the treatment on dry hair before going to bed to wake up to super smooth and shiny hair. Oh, and let's not forget the intoxicating exotic smell that I just can't get enough of - yummmm!

I absolutely love how all of the Repairing Macadamia Oil products are both lightweight and rich at the same time, which makes it perfect for just about everyone!

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil

One of the greatest ancestral beauty secrets comes from Morocco - Argan Oil. It is really a "super oil" because it has so many benefits - strengthening, moisturizing, shine, damage relief, and the list goes on. Argan Oil is, in fact, the foundation for Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco collection. This powerful Moroccan oil, with an added boost of strengthening Keratin, has been infused into each product to create a full system for high moisture and unbeatable strength. It starts with your wash to rid hair of impurities while gently moisturizing; then to your condition for super hydration, shine and restoration. Finally a daily lightweight oil treatment to impart strength, add shine and control frizz.

After continuously hearing rave about argan oil, I was extremely happy when this lovely package landed on my doorstep as I always like to look after my hair after because of all it goes through and can I was absolutely amazed by this line of product - in fact, I think I have found myself some new favorite hair products!

The Argan Oil Shampoo ($7.99 for 250mL / 8.4 fl.oz), infused with Keratin, Grape Seed Oil and Argan Oil,  deeply cleanses to rejuvenate and rid hair of impurities for stronger, shinier, healthier looking hair. It helps to restore strength, protect from damage and revive shine. As if that was not enough, it controls frizz and protects color. I really like the consistency of this shampoo which is thicker than most, and also, it lathers really well with only the thiniest quantity of product. I also really like the  ultra hydrating Argan Oil Conditioner ($7.99 for 250mL / 8.4 fl.oz) which almost instantly leaves my hair smoother, shinier and more manageable after use. For me, the thicker a conditioner is, the better, so I was really pleased with its consistency, which resembles a hair mask, and that coats my hair well to better infuse moisture.

As much as I love the shampoo and conditioner, the Oil of Morocco Argan Oil product that totally blew me away is the Argan Oil Treatment ($7.99 for 50mL / 1.69 fl.oz.). It is a daily, lightweight oil for strong, glossy, frizz-free hair. Whether your hair is curly, straight, thick or thin, this Argan Oil Treatment will become a daily staple in your beauty regimen. It is recommend to apply 1-3 drops (depending on hair length and texture) to damp or dry hair and distribute evenly from roots to ends, which works well (I only need one small drop for my shoulder-length hair) but what I prefer when my hair is feeling extra dry or damaged, is to apply 2-4 drops to dry hair before bedtime. I was surprised that even though I sometimes use too much product, it never leaves greasy residue! The day after, I wake up to extremely soft, smooth, shiny and tangle-free hair - the first times I used this product, I could barely believe how well it worked!

Although my favorite product of the Oil of Morocco Argan Oil collection remains the Argan Oil Treatment - which I'm about to run out of soon! - I found that the combined use of the three products works best as it truly leaves my hair super silky and shiny!

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Summer Essentials

I know, I'm a bit late on this, but I really wanted to share with you ladies the products I reached for the most this summer because some are really little gems!

I have always overlooked after-sun lotions because I'm lazy and I figured out that a normal body moisturizer would work just as well but Burt's Bees Aloe & Linden Flower After Sun Soother completely changed my mind! It was not until I got a really bad sunburn on my chest, arms and belly - I forgot to re-apply sunscreen after going swimming - that I realized how this product was a miracle worker - my sunburn was completely gone within only two days and my skin never showed signs of sun damages! I was expecting this lotion to be liquid and runny but no, it's more on the thick side but still, it sinks right into the sin and it feels so refreshing, and I like the light pleasant herbal scent.

I recently introduced you ladies to my new blog series, Project Farewell Casper, in which I share with you my fake tan adventures, and St Moriz Dark Instant Self Tanning Mousse was the second self tanner that I featured. It was tons of trouble to find a UK seller willing to ship to Canada but all of this hassle was really worth it in the end as this self tanner provides a gorgeous natural deep brown tan, exactly what I was looking for! I hate how it barely lasts three days on me even if I make sure to moisturize twice a day but I guess you get what you pay for.

I recently ordered XEN-TAN Deluxe Tanning Mitt from Apothica because I hated how streaky and patchy St Moriz applied when I used gloves, and as much as I love it because it allows the self tanner to go on soooo smoothly and it makes the whole process a lot easier and quicker, I was a bit disappointed at how cheap the mitt looked... I was expecting it to look like this but mine  does not have the writting and it's not very velvety...

The main reason why I was never keen on depilatory creams or lotions is because of the scent - isn't it awful? If you are able to forget that smell for about 3 minutes, you might actually really enjoy Veet Hydro' Restor Hair Removal Cream*. I absolutely fell in love with the thick texture that was easy to apply on the skin, and the spatula really comes in handy to quickly remove the product without mess. I was actually very surprised to see that the smoothness really lasts longer than shaving - I could see the hair slowly growing back on the third day. I'm also very happy with the results because my legs were soooo smooth and the hair removal cream absolutely didn't dry them. I didn't even feel the need to use moisturizing lotion after! 

With my super straight hair, I was a bit sceptical about Marc Anthony Beach Spray at first but I must say the results are actually pretty decent. This product does add body and texture to my straight hair while also extra definition to my layers. I was surprised to be left with manageable and touchable beach hair after using the Beach Spray.

I'm really happy with Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration sunscreen lotion product because, having dry and eczema-prone skin, being outdoors in the summer sun can really dry out and irritate my skin even more, but the new product line brings sun protection to a whole new level, with the luxurious hydrating ribbons that leave my skin feeling silky soft. I love how this sunscreen lotion goes on clear, light and non-greasy. Oh, and let's not forget that delicious signature coconut fragrance!

Let's not forget about sunglasses, of course! These are my super old aviator sunglasses that I got at my local flea market a looooooong time ago - I think I was in high school! I wore them to death as you can see, they went with me on all my trips, from Wildwood to Quebec, and I think I'm actually due for a new pair as they barely stand straight anymore! Should I get some other aviator sunglasses? This pink silver mirror shaded pair is so cute, although these black Ray Ban are a classic. Maybe I should consider some Ray Ban? My boyfriend has a pair that looks like this one but I really like the "prints" on the frame of this Ray Ban RB4105 Folding Wayfarer 710/51 - which brings me to Wayfarer, hmmm... Have you seen something as cool as these
Spy HELM KEN BLOCK EDITION HHCU131? OK, not really my style... I prefer these Tom Ford, which have a little retro vibe.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N2 Iridescent Beige and N19 Iridescent Icy Pink

My first foray into MAKE UP FOR EVER products were the new Rouge Artist Natural lipsticks and let me tell you that it did not take much time for me to fall in love with these ultra creamy and moisturizing babies that provides light coverage with a soft, shiny finish, which is exactly what I'm looking for in a lipstick in the summer! I have found these to be quite buildable for a more intense but never overpowering look.

I kept hearing so many great things about Carmex Lip Balm Original Jar and being a lip balm junkie, I just had to try it. At $1.98 at Walmart, it was pretty hard to resist! I think I withheld for so long because I was afraid that camphor and phenol could make my lips react (what usually happen with lip-tingling formulas), but so far, I have nothing to report except that this is an amazing lipbalm that I don't have to re-apply every second and I'm so glad I finally decided to give it a try!

I have never been a fan of waterproof mascaras, but Anastasia came out a very clever solution -  Lash Genius, which is a clear waterproof topcoat. I tested this product while swimming at the beach and also under the shower. If I only blink to get the water out of my eyes, Lash Genius stays put perfectly, but if I rub and insist on the lashes, it will start to show signs of fatigue - I noticed some of my lashes stick together, but then again, nothing dramatic!

*Please note that this product is NOT cruelty-free

Disclaimer: Sponsored post

Marc Anthony Dream Waves

Who doesn't love the sexy tousled beach hair look? I sure do, but I'm not a fan of the hassle that usually comes with it such as having to curl my hair with heating tools, then adding hairspray... but Marc Anthony has a quick and easy solution! Dream Waves keeps up with both its delivery of amazing waves and the fact that it shifts hair from straight to sexy beach waves so quickly. 

I have been spoiled rotten by the amazing people over at Marc Anthony - they sent me tons of products to try, starting with the Dream Waves range. This collection is designed to amplify your hair into voluminous waves with tons of movement and texture. Whether your hair is straight or wavy,  you can now get natural looking carefree waves with this texture boosting collection.

Super cute and thoughtful packaging!

The Amplifying Shampoo ($7.99 for 250 mL / 8.4 oz), formulated with conditioning polymers to add body to limp hair, is said to gently cleanses while adding texture so that you can easily work up extra beach waves, but even though its texture has a surprising good consistency - not overly runny or super liquid like most shampoos - and I didn't need tons of product to completely clean my hair, I didn't notice any extra added texture or volume. The same thing goes for the Amplifying Conditioner ($7.99 for 250 mL / 8.4 oz), which is said to add body to straight or wavy hair to help create soft, voluminous waves. Despite its amazingly thick and nearly perfect texture that deeply nourished my hair, it failed to infuse any volume, but that's OK but it's one of the most moisturizing conditioner I have ever tried.

I was really sceptical about the Amplifying Lotion ($7.99 for 140mL / 4.7 fl.oz), partly because of its super liquid and runny texture, but also because I just could not picture how a lotion would make my hair wavy or textured... and I was right. Sadly, this product was a fail for me as it did not really do something to my hair, except when used with the Beach Spray.

L - R: Before and after using the Amplifying Lotion alone

Even though I was very curious to try everything in the Dream Waves range, the product I was super excited about is the Beach Spray ($8.99 for 125 mL / 4.2 fl.oz), which promises to create natural, effortless, beach hair worn loose, soft and wavy. Now, with my super straight hair, I will admit that I was a bit sceptical about this product but after reading so much rave about it on blogs and Twitter, I just could not wait to try it and I was not disappointed!

As I mentionned before, I have straight hair, so of course I was not expecting it to be left magically volumized, wavy and textured after using the Beach Spray, but I must say the results are actually pretty decent. This product does add body and texture to my straight hair while also extra definition to my layers. I was surprised to be left with manageable and touchable beach hair after using the Beach Spray.

L - R: Before and after using the Beach Spray alone

For optimum results, it is recommend to spray evenly all over damp or dry hair, then scrunch hair to amplify a wavy texture and use a diffuser while scrunching, but because I never blowdry my hair, I simply sprayed the product from crown to ends on my towel dried hair and braided it, then I went to sleep for the night. In the morning, I unbraided my hair then sprayed it a little more with the Beach Spray and tadaah, beach hair! I also get an OK result when I let my hair dry naturally after scrunching it, but I do prefer the result when I braid it.

After using the Amplifying Lotion and Beach Spray together

Another great thing about the Beach Spray is that even though you overdo it a bit, you will never be left with crunchy or greasy hair, altough I did notice my hair looking a bit dry after a few days after using the Beach Spray, but I must say my hair is a bit damaged and on the dry side already, so maybe this won't be a problem for all of you.

I really think the Beach Spray is the star of the collection! Seriously, if you must get only one product in the Dream Waves collection, it's this one! If you are living in Canada, don't miss your opportunity to get the Beach Spray on Well.ca for free shipping!

Another bonus about the products in the Dream Waves collection is that they all smell absolutely heavenly, like tropical coconut - they smell like the beach!

Overall, I can say that I was pretty pleased by my first experience with Marc Anthony and I can't wait to try more of their products!

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Mail of the Week (March 12 - 16)

Product samples from Crest Complete range I have noticed that oral care products are not often featured on beauty blogs but I do think it's an important part of our routine. I'm still on the hunt for the perfect mouthwash that will leave my breath very fresh for a long time and I'm also looking for a toothpaste that will really whiten my teeth, as I have always been disappointed before.

When I was given the opportunity to try the new Scope Dual-Blast mouthwash with its odour neutralizing technology, I must say I was curious. I was also kindly sent some oher products from the line, such as Crest Complete Multi-Benefit Extra White + Scope Dual Blast toothpaste and Oral-B Complete Cross Action Power Brush.

Marc Anthony bye.bye.Frizz Smoothing Keratin System Wow, I have definitely been spoiled by the people from Marc Anthony recently! Last week, they kindly sent me the complete Dream Wave Amplifying Collection and now this? bye.bye.Frizz is a frizzy girls dream since it not only removes frizz, it makes your hair so much easier to blow out and style.

The entire bye.bye.Frizz collection is designed to solve frizzy hair issues by smoothing the cuticle and retaining moisture with the power of Keratin. I won't be able to test these products myself because 1) I try to stay away from products with keratin because I don't like my products to contain ingredients derived from tissues found in reptiles, birds, amphibians, and mammals, and 2) I don't have frizzy hair. Fortunately, my dear friend Julie and her fiery red and curly mane are more than happy to help!

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Genius Waterproof Topcoat This is a product I'm very curious about and I'm very excited to try it as I have never seen anything like it before. Lash Genius is basically a colorless topcoat that instantly waterproof, refreshes and protects any mascara all day, without clumping. I never wear waterproof makeup because it's always so damn hard to remove, but having this topcoat on hand will surely come in handy someday!

Celestial Seasonings Sleepytime Herbal Tea sample Celestial Seasonings were giving away free tea samples some times ago, but their offer has now ended.

Bioré Combination Skin Balancing Cleanser sample Bioré recently had an offer on their Facebook page where you could claim your free sample of their new cleanser and also have a chance to win a full-sized bottle as well. Don't want to miss another freebie offer? Be sure to "like" my Facebook page and follow me on Twitter (:

Escada Rockin' Rio new fragrance sample Escada is giving away free samples of their new Summer Fragrances on their Facebook page. Take the fun quiz to discover if you are Sexy Graffiti, Island Kiss or Rockin' Rio and receive your free sample.

♫ Co-Pilot - Kristina Maria ft. Corneille

Mail of the Week (March 5 - 9)

My prize from Meredith's giveaway Seriously, sometimes, I just can't believe my luck! I don't have a wishlist because I try to limit my purchases and use up the stuff I already have, but the whole The Body Shop Chocomania collection has been the only thing on my mind lately, so you can imagine my surprise when Meredith announced me as a winner!

I received my prize super quickly and I never expected to receive so many things - the prize consists of more than $150 worth of the new Chocomania bath and body products. I gave the heart shaped tin to my mother and I can't wait to try everything else - it smells soooooo yummy! Thank you so much Meredith and The Body Shop! =D

Marc Anthony New Dream Wave Amplifying Collection I could not believe my eyes when I saw this big package waiting for me at my doorstep - how cute is the little suitcase packed with seashells? I have been very curious about this collection ever since I started hearing about it, especially about the Beach Spray - is there anything sexier than tousled beach hair? This is even more exciting since I have never tried anything from Marc Anthony before!

Febreze CAR Vent Clips Air Freshener in Linen & Sky I have been very kindly sent this new air freshener as a member of ChickAdvisor Product Review Club. The Febreze CAR Vent Clips are designed to deliver up to 30 days of intensity-adjustable freshness to eliminate unpleasant odours leaving a light fresh scent behind - and it really does smell amazingly fresh! I have offered to my father to test this on my behalf as he uses his car way more than I do. I hope he will like it!

♫ Call Me Maybe - Carly Rae Jepsen