Aveeno's Positively Radiant Body Care ~ Review

Body care is a subject that often gets overlooked here at Mom Loves Makeup. If I'm being honest, and I always am, I sometimes often skip body lotion. Gasp! I know 😕

As a busy Mom, time is something I don't have a lot of. When it comes down to axing something from my routine, moisturizing my body is was the first to go. It never used to be this way and I'm really putting in the effort to change it!

I've always been a fan of Aveeno, so when I heard that they were coming out with a new line, I had to try it! The new Positively Radiant Body Care Line combines the tone-correcting power of Active Naturals Total Soy Complex with natural light diffusers.

Positively Radiant is a collection formulated to target 5 factors of radiance - tone, texture, dullness, blotchiness and brown spots. There are three new products in the line; Positively Radiant Exfoliating Body Wash, Positively Radiant Body Lotion and Positively Radiant Targeted Dark Spot Corrector.

Positively Radiant Exfoliating Body Wash ($11.49 / 532 ml) is soap-free, dye-free, hypoallergenic and contains natural exfoliants. It has a light, pleasant scent to it and it lathers well. The exfoliants are very gentle but still effective. I really like this body wash!

Positively Radiant Body Lotion ($9.49-14.49 / 354 ml) contains rich emollients to lock in moisture for up to 24hrs and keep skin feeling soft. It's also formulated with light reflecting minerals to brighten dull skin. First of all I love how this moisturizer feels! It's light and completely non-greasy yet it hydrates deeply. It also absorbs quickly which is a huge selling factor for me.

Positively Radiant Targeted Dark Spot Corrector Body Cream ($9.49 - $14.49 / 59 ml) transforms dry, dull skin by fading the appearance of dark spots, discoloration and uneven skin in one week. It also claims to offer continued improvement over time.

You can use this cream all over your body, although it has been specifically designed to be used on your neck or decollete. It has a light (almost non-existent) scent and it's very rich. It absorbs almost immediately upon application and the hydration is long lasting. I haven't been using it consistently, so I'm not sure how well it works overtime. And truth be told, I don't suffer from any dark spots on my body. I plan on continuing to use it, and should I notice any significant changes, I will certainly update my review.

You can find Aveeno's Positively Radiant Line at Shoppers Drug Mart.

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Wet n Wild Color Icon 10 Pan Palettes ~ Review + Swatches

I'm going to preface this by saying that I've been purposely late to the wet n wild party. Why? Let's just say I remember when wet n wild was comparable to dollar store makeup, and I refused to believe it could have changed that much. Well here I am. I can admit when I'm wrong, so here it goes. I was WRONG about wet n wild. So, so wrong!

I've been testing out a lot of wet n wild products so there will be a ton of reviews coming your way 😉 Today I'm kicking it off with the coveted Coloricon 10 Pan Palettes. There are 4 available and I currently own 3 of them - Rosé in the Air, Not a Basic Peach, and Comfort Zone.

Rosé in the Air is often compared to a very popular, prestige palette. I happen to own it, and I will be doing a dupe post for it real soon. In the meantime, let's just take a look at this beauty. There's a good mix of mattes and shimmers and the shade selection is perfect. You can go bold and daring or dial it back for the office. The mattes are buildable and blendable, but they aren't overly pigmented. You will need to build them to achieve opacity and they need to be applied over primer. Same with the shimmers, although they pack a bit more pigment. I do find that the lighter shades need to be built up more than the deeper shades.

Not a Basic Peach is my favourite of the three. There's an awesome mix of neutral and peach shades with a blue thrown in for good measure. The mattes in here are a smidgen more pigmented than Rosé in the Air, but they still need to be built up. The shimmers are pretty great and look best when applied on primer. I am currently living for the orange, coral and blue shade.

Comfort Zone is a pretty palette that's perfect for evening looks. There are more shimmers than mattes and the shade range is deeper and smokier. I love the earthy vibes and how a lot of the shades have colour shifts to them. I didn't even notice that blue had a brown shift until I swatched it (it looks so basic in the pan haha). These shades are absolutely stunning and you need them in your life!

All in all I'm pretty impressed with the quality of these palettes. They wear well and last most of the day with primer. Do they feel like high end eyeshadow? No, they don't. But you can't beat the price and the quality is pretty darn good for drugstore makeup.

You can find these palettes at Rexall, Walmart, online at well.ca and wetnwildbeauty.com



*pr samples were provided for editorial consideration. All opinions are my own.

Dior Capture Youth

Yesterday is over.

Tomorrow is too late.

The time is now.

A motto: take action now - no regrets. The Dior skincare (r)evolution is here! Dior science has taken inspiration from modern medicine, to delay signs of aging before they appear. So instead of only treating the damage done, Dior's Capture Youth is actively preventing future damage - before it even shows up!

Take action now. Anticipate, control and maximize the youthfulness of our skin. A selection of the most powerful natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin, and eco designed packaging are just a few features of this line.

Each regimen is individually personalized, allowing you to cherry pick what you need and pass on what you don't. At the heart of this range is Dior Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème ($120, 50ml) an ultra prevention crème that helps to delay visible signs of aging. Formulated with Iris Florentina (an antioxidant) to stimulate the skins internal resistance process. Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème deeply nourishes the skin, leaving it retexturized and toned.

I didn't think it was possible to fall so deeply in love with a facial cream, until now. This crème to me is what PB is to jelly, what a bee is to honey... But seriously though - it's a must have! The texture is lightweight and smooth, yet deeply hydrating. My skin was in a bad place when I started using this. It was dry, dehydrated and suffering all kinds of nightmare breakouts. Now, it's hydrated, soothed and with no painful breakouts. I have gotten a few whiteheads, but that's normal for me. My bank is dreading the day this crème runs out because I don't think I can live without it!

To make the most out Dior's Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème, you should need to pair it with their Targeted Expert Serums. There are 5 serums to choose from, and you can use as many (or as few) as you want. In order to maximize efficacy, you should limit it to 2 serums at a time to suit the skins needs. If you have multiple skin concerns, make sure to divide them into a morning and a night routine.  For example, I use Plump Filler + Redness Soother in the morning, and Plump Filler + Lift Sculptor (or Glow Booster) in the evening.

After you've selected your serum(s) you can decide your application method.

1. Layering

   Apply the serum, then the crème

     ‎

     2. Mix & Match

     Mix 2 to 3 drops of serum directly in the crème (in the palm of your hand)

             3. Intensive Treatment

     Apply a serum then the crème for 30 days as a cure when the skin is particularly stressed                     (change of seasons/skin issues/repeated irritation)

As I mentioned earlier, there are 5 serums to choose from and they're all priced the same ($120)

Glow Booster Illuminating Serum. Restore Radiance - Vitamin C 

100 times more concentrated in vitamin C than oranges, Murunga Plum combined with AHA combine to brighten the complexion and to even skin texture irregularities.

The Plump Filler Plumping Serum - Hyaluronic Acid

Three different weights of botanical hyaluronic acid from fermented wheat hydrates and replenishes the skin to make it appear fuller and more supple. Ideal as an intensive treatment (in winter) or to fight against environmental stressors (dryness, sun)

The Lift Sculptor Lifting Serum

Sculpt + Lift - Polyphenols

Polyphenols derived from a tea blend (green & white) boost elastin production to visibly lift and sculpt the skin for firmer, more defined skin contours.

The Redness Soother Anti-Redness Soothing Serum

Natural peptides from cotton reduce redness and irritation for a smoother, more even complexion . The ideal anti-aggressor shield it calms and relieves irritated and sensitized skin.

The Matte Maximizer Mattifying Serum

Matte + Refine + Lactic Acid (for oily skin)

Lactic acid derived from sugar cane regulates excess sebum to help reduce shine and refine pores. A soft focus matte blur and complexion refiner.

My typical morning Capture Youth routine is super fast and incredibly effective. I typically skip washing my face in the am (just a quick rinse with water) and dive right into Capture Youth Plump Filler. I add two drops to my hands and apply it directly onto my face. It has a light scent and my skin drinks it up right away. After a minute or so, I spot treat my cheeks with a drop of Redness Soother and then mix another drop into Capture Youth and apply all over (eye area too). My skin is instantly hydrated and my face looks calm. I'm not going to lie and say that my redness vanishes into thin air, but it's certainly reduced.

In the evening, I remove my makeup and wash my face with Dior Hydra Life Lotion to Foam Fresh Cleanser ($49, 190 ml) apply Plump Filler all over (same method as am) and then follow with 2 drops of Lift Sculptor. I do this four days a week. The other 3 days I swap out Lift Sculptor for Glow Booster and follow with Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème. After using this combo for a few weeks I have to admit that my skin is looking pretty darn good. I started to notice an ever so slight slackening of skin around my jaws (yikes x 1000) and this has pretty much froze it in time. I'm glad I caught it,  and I hope that it will delay any further slackening. When I use Glow Booster I notice an immediate radiance - one that lasts! I prefer to use it at night since it is an AHA - in case you weren't aware, they make your skin so much more sensitive to sun. Even though I use it at night, it's still on my face the next day so I make sure to load up on sunscreen. Always, and I mean always wear sunscreen when you use AHA's!

One of the most common complaints I hear from people is the heavy 'scent' of certain products. I personally enjoy a nice scent, but so many people don't. With Dior products, you will notice that they have a natural/botanical scent to them. DO NOT BE ALARMED! These scents are naturally occurring and they will not harm sensitive skin. People mistakenly believe that all scents are added and that 'scent free' is better and that's not always the case. A Dior Pro explained it this way: coffee beans naturally contain caffeine. In order to make them decaf, the beans need to be processed - often chemically - to remove it. This is not natural, and it's over-processed. Dior does not process their products to remove their natural scents. Doesn't seem so bad now, does it?

Oh and I almost forgot! Dior has revamped their packaging to be more eco-friendly. Long gone are the cardboard inserts and cellophane sleeves. Dior is aiming to use as little as they can when packaging their products. And their inks are vegetable based!

In in love with this line - 100% and I know that you will be too. If you can only choose one product, go with the Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème  If you can get 2, add in a Glow Booster Serum and thank me later 😉

You can find the Capture Youth Range in store & online at sephora.ca in store at Shoppers Drug Mart & online at beautyboutique.ca in store & online at thebay.com and Holt Renfrew & holtrenfrew.com

*pr samples were generously provided to me for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Carbon Coco's Ultimate Carbon Kit

I can't open Instagram or Facebook without seeing an ad for carbon toothpaste. Naturally I was quite intrigued, but also very hesitant at the same time. I googled a few different brands but was unsure who to try, so I opted out. As fate would have it, I was contacted by Carbon Coco about reviewing their best selling kit. Obviously I said yes!

Carbon Coco has a few different options available and today I'm talking about their best selleing kit: the Ultimate Carbon Kit ($59.95). This kit contains Activated Charcoal Polish, Activated Charcoal Toothpaste and a bamboo bristle toothbrush.

Carbon Coco products features oxidized, medical-grade activated charcoal to safely whiten teeth and freshen breath. Unlike traditional teeth whitening pastes/gels/strips, this is chemical and additive free - perfectly suitable for those with sensitive teeth!

The ingredient list is short and sweet - 100% Organic Coconut Shell Activated Charcoal with a hint of bentonite powder and lemon myrtle. It's also cruelty free!

It's a very simple process that begins with the use of the Activated Charcoal Polish. Simply dip your damp toothbrush into the powder and brush your teeth as usual. The powder is slightly gritty and has no flavour whatsoever.  After 2 minutes you rinse (carefully) and follow with the Activated Charcoal Toothpaste. The toothpaste has a minty flavour that's amazing and it foams up a lot. After one to two minutes you rinse again and you're done. Carbon Coco claims that you will see results within 14 days and if you don't, you can get your money back.

Now if I'm being honest, my teeth were fairly white to begin with. I did/do have a bit of staining between my teeth and I can say that i've noticed a slight difference. Keyword slight. I will say that I noticed a huge difference in the way my teeth and mouth felt. I know that sounds weird, but it's true! My mouth has never felt cleaner and my teeth have never felt smoother. The only thing I can compare it to is the feeling you get after you visit the dentist.

The only thing I don't like about this set is how messy it is. When you open the polish, powder flies out and leaves black smudges all over my bathroom vanity. Worse than that is the mess it leaves in the sink. You definitely need to wash out your sink when your done and frankly, it's a bit of a pain. Oh, and it leaves a bit of a mess in your mouth too. Pieces of charcoal get lodged under your gums and stuck to your tongue. Not a huge deal, but worth noting.

All in all I'm fairly happy with this product. I love that it's natural, chemical free and most importantly, doesn't irritate my teeth or gums. I will definitely be reaching for it often!

You can find Carbon Coco online at carboncoco.com

*pr samples were provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Givenchy Gloss Interdit Vinyl ~ Review + Swatches

There's something inherently magical about made-to-measure colour enhancers. The fact that the end result is determined by your pH levels make them not only unique, but fun as well! The excitement of applying Givenchy's Gloss Interdit Vinyl is reminiscent of the mood rings of my youth and the concept alone is enough to make me smile.

Gloss Interdit Vinyl is a renewed product.  There's a new formula, upgraded packaging, as well as a newly branded, G-shape foam applicator. Gloss Interdit Vinyl is available in 12 shades that offer an ultra shiny plumping effect, luminous colour and medium coverage. 3 of these glosses (N°1 Rose Révélateur, N°16 Noir Révélateur and N°3 Electric Rose) are made-to-measure colour enhancers. Today I'm sharing my thoughts on N°1 Rose Révélateur and N°16 Noir Révélateur.

"G for Givenchy, G for Glossy, G for Glamour—Gloss Interdit Vinyl signs a new way of applying lip gloss." 

/source/ 

The first thing I noticed was the chic packaging. The tube is sleek and the detail on the cap is stunning - this lip gloss looks luxe! The applicator is really neat with its foam tipped, G shaped applicator. I was worried that the G tip was gimmicky, and therefore would apply wonky, but thankfully it doesn't. It's chic and totally practical at the same time. Score!

But do they really work? What makes them change colour? And most importantly, does the black gloss apply.. black?

First things first - no, N°16 Noir Révélateur is not black lip gloss. Sure it looks black in the tube, and initially it does apply black, however it changes to a deep berry. What it really does is offer an enigmatic depth that looks so neat on its own, but even better as a lip topper. It's very shiny and not sticky either which is great. I've been having a ton of fun with it and really like how it looks on top of nude lipstick. It adds a unique depth that really brings my lips to life.

N°1 Rose Révélateur is clear and looks like your average gloss. It makes my lips appear fuller and slightly pinker - totally a 'my lips but better' look. This is a gloss that I love to wear on its own, although I certainly would wear it on top of lipstick if I wanted a high shine finish.

I'm really loving the gel like shine and non-sticky finish of the Gloss Interdit Vinyl. I will say that they have a very sweet, candy like scent that I'm not overly fond of. Having said that, it's not a deterrent for me and I already have my eyes (and heart) set on trying some of the other shades.

You can find these and other Givenchy products both in-store and online at sephora.com

*press samples were generously provided to me for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

My Morning Routine feat NYX Cosmetics ~ Review + Swatches

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? I aim to wake up an hour and a half before my kids so I can shower and get ready in peace. It doesn't always work out how I plan though - sometimes they wake up early. On those days, I switch over to my 10 minute routine. Brows, base, eyeshadow (on lids only), highlight and lipstick.

I was recently sent a fun little package of NYX goodies to test out. Curious to know what has become a staple in my morning routine? Read on and find out!

3 Steps to Sculpt ($18) is a handy little palette to have. It has three pressed powders (glow highlight, matte highlight and sculpt) and it's more than enough to give you a perfectly chiseled complexion. I was gifted the medium shade, and although it's slightly dark for me now, it will be perfect in the summer. I've been using the glow powder though, and I love it! It goes on super creamy, can be blended down or built up. It is a bit sparkly, so if thats not your thing, you likely won't be a fan.

Anyone who knows me will attest to the fact that I love NYX lippies. They're affordable, comfortable and long wearing. Up until now I had only tried their liquid lipsticks - boy have I been missing out! Pin-Up Pout combines vivid, long wearing colour with comfort. It's available in 24 shades and I am the proud owner of two - 07 Almost Famous (Dusty Mauve) and 23 Flashy (Deep Purple with Blue Undertone).

Pin-Up Pout ($10) comes housed in a plain black tube. It has a sharp point that makes lining and filling the lips a breeze. They apply smoothly, opaque and are definitely comfortable. I don't find them overly long wearing, but I don't mind. I can reapply as needed 😉

The new Matte Lid Lingerie ($9) has quickly become a favourite of mine! It's available in 12 shades and I'm currently crushing on the shade Dynamic (pale pink). Much like the Lip Lingeries, these provide a sheer wash of colour. Pro tip: you can totally build these up to opaque coverage! Honestly, I wasn't expecting much from these, but lo and behold I'm super impressed! They look natural, feel comfortable and are so easy to apply. I like to use a brush (or my finger in a pinch) to blend them out and up through my crease. They dry quickly and don't budge; best part is that they don't crease. I need more of them in my life!

When it comes to eyeliner, I'm no pro. You would think that after close to 2 decades of wearing makeup I could get it right - nope. Seeing how thin and small the That's The Point eyeliner in Hella Fine ($14) was gave me hope. I find its small size easy to make a thin line (my favourite) and it's perfect for tiny cat eyes. Its super black and long wearing too which is a huge bonus. But I still can't get my wings right 😕

NYX is by far one of my favourite drugstore brands to buy as their products are consistently good.  And they're priced right.

You can find these products online at nyxcosmetics.ca and in-store at select Shoppers Drug Marts.






*this post features samples generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.