Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation ~ Review + Swatches

I was recently given the opportunity to test out Oxygenetix's Oxygenating Foundation and I'm excited to share my thoughts on this very innovative product!

Here's a description as found on Oxygenetix's website:

"Oxygenetix Breathable Foundation is powered by our patented Ceravitae™ oxygenating complex. Ceravitae stimulates skin cell production and supports the healing process following a wide range of aesthetic procedures or skin problems. Oxygenetix Foundation covers, soothes and protects damaged skin thanks to skin-loving ingredients including: Aloe barbadensis gel-base, vitamin E, grape seed extract, green tea, salix alba extract and more. These oxygenating, natural components in harmony create a light, breathable second skin..."

Unlike other foundations, Oxygenetix can be applied to skin immediately following C02 laser resurfacing, micro-needling, chemical peels, injectables, IPL, laser hair removal, facelift, rhinoplasty and more to conceal any redness, scarring or bruising to the skin. It can also be applied over rosacea, wounded/injured skin, acne, cracked/dry skin and various other skin conditions. You can even wear it while working out because it allows your skin to breathe!

Some other features and benefits (as found on Oxyenetix's website) include:

• Conceal and camouflage skin imperfections while supporting healing the skin.

• Ceravitae™ helps proliferate skin cells, aids collagen formation and connective tissue growth.

• perfect for rosacea, redness, acne, psoriasis, eczema and surface wounds or blemishes.

• Vitamin E helps heal the skin.

• Aloe vera barbadensis calms, soothes, supports healing and cools skin.

• Breathable mesh network maintains and replenishes the skins moisture levels all day.

• Doesn’t smudge due to sweat or humidity.

• Water and transfer resistant.

• SPF25 UVA/UVB protection.

• Stays on all day - no need to reapply.

Oxygentix Oxygenating Foundation is available in 14 shades and in two undertone categories; blue and yellow. Don't be put off by the name; it won't oxidize into an orange mess on your face (that's what came to my mind when I first heard the name). Just throwing that out there..


I chose the shade Opal which is the lightest shade available with yellow undertones.

The formula has the perfect consistency; it's thick enough to provide coverage but thin enough that it's easy to spread. I applied it with my fingers, foundation brush, oval brush as well as with a real techniques sponge. Each method provides a different level of coverage and finish.

Swatch blended out

My favourite application tool for this foundation is my oval brush. It applies evenly, with fuller coverage and gives an airbrushed finish.

When applied with a damp beauty sponge, you get medium coverage with an even finish. If you want fuller coverage, you will need to apply a second layer.

I found that the use of a regular foundation brush yielded uneven results and when applied with my fingers the coverage was very light, similar to a BB cream.

It's important to note that this foundation doesn't dry quickly, which allows for a second layer if needed. The finish is somewhere between satin and demi-matte and not at all flat. It does dry a bit tacky, so I like to set it with a translucent setting powder (which also helps it to wear longer.)

When worn with primer, powder and setting spray I got around 6 hours of wear before it started to separate in my t-zone. Without primer or powder, I got about 4-5 hours out of it. Oxygenetix Oxygenating foundation feels very comfortable on the skin and looks beautiful. I will be posting some selfies with me wearing it on my Instagram very soon so make sure to follow me on there to see it in action!

For more information visit http://www.oxygenetix.com



*PR sample provided

Sole Patches ~ Review

When it comes to fashion, I'm known to sport vintage inspired clothing and sky-high heels. Unfortunately, my choice of shoes are highly impractical and often uncomfortable. I've been known to carry flats in my purse to change into after events because my feet end up hurting so badly. Stubborn as I am, I refuse to give them up!

I was recently sent a sample of Sole Patches to review and believe me, I put them to the test! Before I get into my thoughts, I think a brief description is in order.

Sole Patches are essentially a sticker that you can apply directly to the balls of your feet or inside your shoes for a more permanent pain reducing solution. They're flower shaped and made of PORON which is an anti-moisture/antimicrobial/antiodour cushion material that will help to absorb the shock and subsequent pain of walking in high heels.

I decided to add Sole Patches to the inside of my shoes opposed to my feet. Unlike most inserts, these are aesthetically pleasing and they don't take up the whole shoe. The patches aren't overly thick so they won't change the way your shoes fit, unless your shoes are too tight to begin with.

I definitely noticed the cushion effect and found them to make my shoes slightly more comfortable. I'm not going to say that they transformed my killer heels into the coziest shoes I've ever worn, but they made them more bearable, which is all I can really ask for.

Did I mention that they're only $9.95 for a pack of 6?!

For more information visit http://solepatches.com/

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The Most Expensive Face Cream I've Ever Used! Fresh's Creme Ancienne ~ Review

As someone with combination skin that leans towards oily most of the time, it came as a surprise when my skin started to dry out.  Blame it on winter or just another skin phase, I needed to revamp my skincare routine in order to address these changes.

I decided to open up my jar of Fresh's Creme Ancienne that I was so kindly gifted. The following is a description of the cream as found on Sephora's website

This supremely effective formula is the ultimate age-delaying solution. It is proven to reduce the depth and length of wrinkles, increase skin elasticity and firmness, and provide instant and long-lasting hydration. It is enriched with meadowfoam seed oil, a unique, nourishing fatty acid that plumps and firms the complexion and improves overall elasticity. A dose of vitamin E provides antioxidant protection against free-radical damage, and beeswax and chamomile wax eradicate dry spots, soften the skin, and create a light moisture-preserving veil.

The history behind Creme Ancienne is quite interesting so I thought I'd share another excerpt about it as found on the Sephora website

This exclusive complex is inspired by the world's first cream, created by Claude Galen, esteemed doctor to Emperor Marcus Aurelius, in the 2nd century A.D. to heal gladiators' wounds. To preserve its rich history and supreme quality, each jar is hand-blended and hand-filled in a European monastery. The precious waxes that give the cream its rich consistency require hand-blending to maintain their delicate structures. They have varying melting points, absorbing into the skin at different rates to deliver continuous, long-lasting moisture.

This cream retails for $170 (1oz) or $350 (3.5oz) making it the most expensive cream I've ever used. But the question is; is it worth the cost?

As you can see in the photos the cream has ripples of what I gather to be wax or oil and it's very fluid. The cream on the other hand is quite thick. It feels very rich and it looks luxe in appearance.

Due to the thickness and density of the cream, the use of a spatula is necessary. Unfortunately, Fresh doesn't include one. When I tried to apply it straight from the jar, I found it very difficult to spread. I've since discovered that it's best to allow it to warm up in my hands a bit before application.

When applied it feels heavy, and I mean heavy. Not only does it feel heavy but it looks very oily. Sadly, that feeling does not disappear. I've used creams that apply similarly but eventually they absorb into my skin. Fresh's Creme Ancienne does not, at least not in a reasonable time frame. After 3 or 4 hours it becomes less greasy, but I don't feel hydrated. I feel oily. Like I smeared coconut oil on my face.

Aside from looking like I've been working the deep fryer at a fast food restaurant, my face still feels dry. Really dry. Likely because the cream is sitting on my skin opposed to sinking in and nourishing it.

See that shine? That's what my face looks like after applying this cream

The icing on the cake? I've been breaking out like crazy since using this cream. I'm no stranger to breakouts, but this is bad. Prior to using this cream I'd typically get a small pimple or two during my cycle. After using Fresh's Creme Ancienne for just 3 weeks, I've had more blocked pores, pimples and cystic pimples than I've had in months.

Verdict? Not worth the money. I'm not sure what skin type would benefit from this cream, but it's certainly not mine. I will be finishing this off as a hand cream because I really like the jar and want to keep it on my vanity.

Have you tried Fresh's Creme Ancienne? Did it work for you? What's the most you've ever spent on a facial cream? I'd love to hear your thoughts below 👇

Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream Skin Protectant ~ Review

With Winter in full swing, it's important to prep and protect our skin from the harsh elements. Freezing temperatures outdoors and dry, artificial heat indoors are not ideal for our skin.

Today I'm going to share with you one of my not-so-secret weapons, Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream Skin Protectant. This miracle cream is a cult classic for a reason; it works!

Here's a brief description and history of the infamous 8 hour cream as found on the Elizabeth Arden website.

The Legend

Created in 1930 by Elizabeth Arden to soothe skin, Eight Hour® Cream Skin Protectant became an instant and overwhelming success. What made it so effective is a combination of petrolatum, a skin-soothing beta-hydroxy in one of its first cosmetic uses, and vitamin E. The apricot coloured balm was so beneficial to her clients, Miss Arden used it to soothe her famous thoroughbred horses' legs. Even its name came about thanks to a remarkable performance - a loyal client used it to treat her child's skinned knee and "eight hours later" the skin was all better."

Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Skin Protectant helps to protect skin from the elements, seal in moisture and promote healthy skin. It can be used from head to toe and applied as often as needed.

The cream is rather thick and can be a bit difficult to spread at times. It has an apricot hue to it and it smells almost medicinal. I personally don't mind the scent, but the good news is that it's also available in a fragrance free formula for those who are scent sensitive.

I use it in the winter months to soothe dry skin and to treat my chapped hands. I apply a thick coat before bedtime and allow it to work it's magic.

Its hard to see in the photo below, but my hands are dry, flaky and scaley looking. Yikes! After applying the cream the flakiness disappears and my skin feels much more hydrated. Although my skin looks quite red in the after photo, I can assure you that my hands feel soothed and nowhere near as angry as they look.

I use this cream not only on myself but on my children as well. My daughter recently suffered a minor bout of eczema on her face and nothing seemed to help. I applied Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream before bedtime and the next morning it was less red and irritated. After two nights of applying the cream it cleared up completely.

If you're looking to treat severely dehydrated skin or to prevent your skin from drying out, I highly recommend you give Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream a try!

You can find this cream both in store and online at The Hudson's Bay for $29

Have you used 8 Hour Cream before? Do you have a go-to dry skin saver? I'd love to hear your thoughts below!

Raspberry Mint ~ Review + Giveaway Info

I recently received a lovely package from Raspberry Mint and I'm going to share my thoughts on a few of the products I received. But before I get into my review, I'd love to briefly introduce you to the brand!

Raspberry Mint is a Canadian company that focuses on creating products that are chic, eco-friendly and organic. They are against animal cruelty/testing and create everything by hand and in small batches.

The first product I tried and my favourite of the bunch, is the Relax Babe Aromatherapy roll-on. Made with 100% pure essential oils (lavender and lime) and blended with a mix of coconut and grapeseed oil, this aromatherapy roll-on is sure to help you relax! When first applied you can smell both the lavender and lime but as it dries down the lime scent is more prevalent. I apply it on my temples, back of neck and wrists before bed. I have become quite addicted to this blend and am happy to have it as a part of my nightly routine.

Next up is the Dead Sea Mineral Mud Mask for face and body. This mask contains only 2 ingredients; Dead Sea Mineral Mud and preservative DMDM Hydantoin (0.009%) to prevent the growth of bacteria and moulds.

The mask is easy to spread and dries rather quickly. It is a bit difficult to remove so I use a face cloth soaked in warm water to gently wipe it away. Once removed my face feels slightly tightened and is ready for moisturizer. It doesn't dry out my skin but it doesn't hydrate it either. As with any mud or clay mask, I highly recommend applying cream, lotion or moisturizer after using it.

Finally, the Diva Night Repair Moisturizing Hemp Lips Conditioner. This product is made with Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Shea Butter, Beeswax Beads, Organic Flavour Oil, Organic Argan Oil, Vitamin E and Organic Hemp Seed Oil. Although it is marketed as a night time lip product, it can be used during the day as well. Unfortunately, this product didn't quite live up to my expectations. I love the cherry scent and large size tin, however I didn't find it to be particularly hydrating or long lasting. When applied it feels more like an oil and it doesn't last very long on my lips. When it comes to lip balms/oils, I prefer products that will sit on my lips for a while. If you're someone who prefers an oil based product that isn't sticky and won't last too long on the lips, than you might enjoy it.

Now onto the giveaway!

Raspberry Mint is holding a giveaway on their website where you can win a slew of products (25 to be exact!) and entering is super easy. Click this link here to enter! Please note that I AM NOT AFFILIATED with this giveaway - just spreading the word!

Also,  If you're interested in purchasing any products from Raspberry Mint you can use promo code grand50 at checkout to receive 50% off of your purchase! This offer expires March 31 2017

Have you tried anything from Raspberry Mint? Are you entering the contest? I'd love to hear your thoughts below!

*PR samples provided

Bite Beauty Matte Creme Lip Crayons ~ Review

For those of you who are unfamiliar with Bite Beauty, their products are handmade in Toronto Canada and are literally good enough to eat! They're made from almost all natural ingredients and the high pigment colourants are all food grade approved. Pretty neat right?! I love to support Canadian brands (especially local ones - I'm from Toronto!) so naturally I was incredibly excited to be given 3 of the Matte Creme Lip Crayons (Red Velvet, Cava and Glacé) courtesy of Influenster and Bite Beauty to review. 

For a matte lipstick they feel very creamy and hydrating which is arguably their best feature. When first applied they feel creamy, hydrating and don't accentuate any dry patches. However they do start to feel a bit drier the longer you wear them, and as they fade any dry spots you have become more noticeable. It's a good idea to exfoliate and moisturize prior to wearing them if you want them to look their best.

All three of the shades I received are pigmented and the pointed, self sharpening tip make them a breeze to put on. It is very easy to get an even edge with these lippies. I did find that the cap on Cava was difficult to remove and it nicked the tip of the pencil the first time I opened it. Not a huge deal, but slightly frustrating.

As far as wear goes, I got a few hours out of them but unfortunately they did transfer while eating and drinking. Keep in mind that they're not advertised as transfer proof..Out of the three, Red Velvet stayed on the longest whereas Cava and Glacé seemed to fade quicker.

Hands down my favourite shade is Red Velvet which is a rich, deep red. Red is my all time favourite lip colour and this particular shade is just perfect! It looks great paired with bold or natural makeup and works well for both day and night looks.

Glacé is my second favourite shade. It's a gorgeous dusty mauve and it looks superb when paired with either bold or natural eye makeup. I love this shade for day looks!

Initially, I was a bit put off by Cava which is a lilac beige shade. I liked it, but when I swatched it I was afraid that it would be too light. To my surprise, it didn't appear that light on my lips and it looks fabulous when paired with a bold eye look.

You can find Bite Beauty's Matte Creme Lip Crayons at Sephora, both in-store and online for $28 CAD.

Wearing Glace

Have you tried Bite Beauty's Matte Creme Lip Crayons before? Do you prefer traditional lipstick, lip crayons or liquid lipstick? I'd love to hear your thoughts below!

*I received these products courtesy of Influenster. As always, all opinions are my own!

Eden's Semilla 100% Pure Organic Jojoba Oil ~ Review

With Fall in full swing and Winter on its way, my skincare needs have changed. I have combination skin that leans toward oily in the summer and dry the rest of the year. If I'm not careful to keep hydrated (both inside and out) my face becomes too dry and tends to break out.  It can be hard to find that perfect balance as anyone who has combination skin will tell you. If you don't moisturize, your skin produces excess sebum. If you overdue it with heavy creams, your skin can break out.

For years I was afraid of oils. In my mind, I felt that they would exaggerate the oily side of my combo skin and I was terrified that they would break me out. I was wrong. So wrong. After incorporating beauty oils into my routine I've managed to keep my skin looking great, and mostly blemish free.

The latest beauty oil that has found its way into my repertoire is Eden's Semilla's 100% Pure Organic Jojoba Oil. This particular brand of jojoba oil is 100% pure, organic and cold-pressed to ensure that the natural ingredients are retained.

The oil has a yellow hue to it and it has a very light, almost nutty scent which doesn't linger on my face or body. It comes contained in a box, in a plastic bottle that has a stopper to prevent it from leaking during shipping. There is also a dropper included which makes application mess free.

Eden's Semilla 100% Pure Organic Jojoba oil can be used on skin (face and body), hair and as a nail/cuticle treatment. I have been using it on my face, body and hands and am quite pleased with it so far. I apply it nightly as the final step in my facial skincare routine and on my body after showering. It absorbs far quicker than a lot of other brands of jojoba oil I've tried in the past and it doesn't leave a greasy feeling.

When I wake up in the morning my skin looks amazing! It feels hydrated, looks radiant and there's no greasy or oily feeling at all. The few dry patches I had have cleared up and my skin is much more balanced. I've also used it during the day and thanks to the sebum mimicking effect, my skin doesn't produce nearly as much oil in my t-zone as it normally does. Amazing!

When I use it after my shower my skin stays hydrated for the entire day, without feeling greasy. I haven't tried it on my hair because, in all honesty, it's way too fine for oils. They just end up weighing it down. I'm sure that it would work wonders on curly, dry or over-processed hair though.

You can find Eden's Semilla 100% Pure Organic Jojoba Oil on Amazon.  It comes in a 60ml size for $10.95 or in a 120ml size for $18.95.

Have you tried anything from Eden's Semilla? Are you a fan of beauty oils? I'd love to hear your thoughts below!

*PR sample was sent to me for my consideration. As always, my opinions are my own!