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Sabrina

Fragrance

L’Occitane x Pierre Hermé Jasmin-Immortelle Neroli and Pamplemousse Rhubarbe for Holiday 2015

December 5, 2015

This holiday L’Occitane and Pierre Hermé teamed up to launch an exquisite collection of the most delicious smelling products for lips, hands and body. Both brands have a special place in my heart. I’ve been a long-time L’Occitane fan and this past summer I was able to try Pierre Hermé macarons for the first time when I visited Paris (they are truly out of this world). A partnership between the two brands is heaven sent and I have fallen head over heels in love with both fragrances launched for holiday in Jasmin-Immortelle Neroli and Pamplemousse Rhubarbe. Today I have a review on both fragrances along with a few of the gift set options. Do note some of the online sets are online exclusives, also different countries have slight variations in the options and packaging.

Out of the two it’s hard to pick a favorite. I initially thought I would
favor the Pamplemousse Rhubarbe because I love grapefruit scents. The
Pamplemousse Rhubarbe is a sweet grapefruit but there’s some cedar mixed
in to balance it and round it out so it’s not quite as sharp as a
regular citrus. The rhubarb adds more warmth to it. Everything is so beautifully packaged and colorful.

According to L’Occitane: “When Pierre Hermé places Grapefruit at the heart of a creation, he means to celebrate all its facets. And that includes the slightly bitter, white inner skin – its character underlined by the green and crisp aromas of Rhubarb. This beautifully balanced note is soon ruffled at its heart by sensual, piquant spices. In this original composition, woody notes of Cedar conjure up the sensation of mischievous Grapefruit cutting through the tartness of Rhubarb stalks.”

The items in the Pamplemousse Rhubarbe collection include:

The perfume is really pretty. It’s sweet but not too sweet.  Lasting power is pretty good on me. With three spritzes I find it lasts from early morning until around 3:00 pm before it’s completely faded. Layering the lotion helps extend the scent. The lotions are lightweight and absorb quickly into the skin and hydrate the skin nicely. The shower gel lathers up well in the bath or shower although I find the shower gels aren’t quite as strong in scent as the lotion/perfume. All the body and hand items are identical in scent. The Pamplemousse Rhubarbe Lip Balm is clear and lightweight. It hydrates the lips nicely. Online it’s only available in a couple of sets. I haven’t checked to see if it’s available alone in stores (if you’ve spotted it please share in the comments). The hand creams of course are incredible and not to be missed.

The Jasmin-Immortelle Neroli is actually my favorite of the two options which surprised me because Jasmin is one of those scents I like for the home but don’t usually like to wear. The mix of jasmin, immortelle flower, citrus of neroli make for me the most interesting combination. The scent is very soothing and feminine. According to L’occitane this one is described as “luminous, angelic, sensual…” and I couldn’t agree more. It’s so beautiful I am doing something I have only done once before, I am backing up the perfume.

Per L’Occitane, “Floral and absolutely feminine, the jasmine scented fragrance of pastry chef Pierre Hermé balances the white notes of gardens at dawn with the gold of a flower that still flourishes throughout the Corsican maquis. Sparkling head notes bring an unexpected sensation. In one deep breath, Lemon and Petit grain tantalize the palate as they come into contact with Pink Pepper and offer up a breeze of fresh air. The exhilarating heart of this bouquet blends the floral note of Jasmine and the softness of Orange Blossom with the wild, honeyed and aromatic scents of an armful of Immortelle from Corsica. This is a floral fragrance that captures the scent of the Island of Beauty, swept up in woody and musky notes.” 

Options in the Jasmin-Immortelle Neroli are the same as for the other fragrance with one slight variation for the lips:
The lip product for this collection is a tinted lip gloss. It is scented just like the other items in the line and goes on a sheer glossy pink (almost clear). It tastes surprisingly good – surprising to me because the scent doesn’t seem like something that would taste good, but it does. At the same time it should be expected that Pierre Hermé and L’Occitane would take extra care to make sure the lip products taste just as good as they look and smell.

Swatches of the lip balm and lip gloss that we received in the US:

A quick look at a few of the other sets that launched this holiday. There was a Pierre Hermé hand cream trio available online but appears to be sold out right now. I didn’t see it in stores a month ago but you may want to check to see if it popped up. It has the Mandarin Miel (warm citrus honey) as well which is still available for purchase separately online and in stores. The set offered a slight price break compared to purchasing the hand creams separately. Since everything is limited-edition I don’t think this one will be coming back online.

Also available are these cute Hugs and Kisses Duos that have a lip product with a hand cream packaged together. The sets are $20 each ($24 value) and come in a variety of options. I didn’t see these in store either – but if you’ve spotted them please share in the comments. I ordered the Pierre Hermé ones online.
Above: the Hugs and Kisses Hand and Lip Duos ($20 each) in Pamplemousse Rhubarbe, Jasmin-Immortelle Neroli, Shea Butter*, Delightful Rose*, also available in Zesty Lime.

There are lots of different gift sets at L’Occitane. My favorites are the Pierre Hermé ones. One more item I wanted to highlight because it’s so cute are the Holiday Baubles. These are only $14 each and make the perfect stocking stuffer. The Shea Butter Holiday Bauble comes with minis of the Shea Butter Hand Cream, Extra Gentle Milk Soap, Ultra Rich Body Lotion, Ultra Rich Shower Cream all packed into a cute ornament. There’s also a Shea Verbena Holiday Bauble option (also $14), or both in a Duo Pack Set for $28.

Bottom line: so much to love. The only downside is that a lot of the holiday items are limited-edition and some sets have already sold out online, my hope is that they restock, but I don’t suspect the popular items like the sets. If you have anything on your wishlist I suggest you visit your store sooner than later.

Out of all the items in the Pierre Hermé collection, I think the stand outs are the Eau de Toilettes and Hand Creams. The Jasmin-Immortelle Neroli Lip Gloss is special because it’s a surprisingly pretty pink shimmer even though it goes on pretty clear on my lips, it smells amazing and makes the lips feel smooth and glossy without any tacky feel.

This is perhaps my favorite holiday launch this year (or at least in my top three). You can find the collection online at L’Occitane and most items in stores as well. Some sets are online exclusives.

Did you check out anything from L’Occitane this holiday? My husband has some of the men’s skincare sets on his wishlist for Christmas and I just ordered a few today.

Some items featured include press samples indicated with a *. Press samples include the Body Lotions, Shower Gels, Eau de Toilettes, Shea and Rose Hugs and Kisses. All other items and sets featured purchased by me.
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Gift Guide

Holiday Beauty Gifts To Treat Yourself

December 3, 2015

There’s a lot to do during the holiday season and if you’re like me you probably find life a bit hectic if not extra busy. With all the things going on with friends, family and year-end wrap ups, I think it’s important to not forget you! Today’s gift guide focuses on some of my favorite beauty items from Nordstrom to consider treating yourself with. Sometimes just one simple thing like a new candle or lipstick can be a nice treat.

I’m a huge fan of home fragrance. The right scent can shift the mood and help you unwind or lift the spirits. Mini candles are always so cute to have around the house. Diptyque Baies is of course a favorite. Vanille is another nice one for the holiday or cold weather as it’s a warm and cozy scent. (It also comes in the 5 Piece Mini Set and 10 Piece Mini Set.)

For a little bit of glam, a new scent to wear is also a mood lifter. If you want a sampling of lots of scents, the Jo Malone Cologne Collection has 5 mini clutch-sized perfumes in Lime Basil and Mandarin, Pomegranate Noir, English Pear and Freesia, Peony and Blush Suede and Wood Sage and Sea Salt. If you like stronger scents, there’s also the Cologne Intense Collection with 5 minis.

For color, hands down my most favorite highlighter launch this year is the Tom Ford Skin Illuminating Powder Duo. I liked it so much I bought a backup (although it appears to be permanent). Another cute mini set is the Laura Mercier In The Glow Trio which has small sizes of the Matte Radiance Highlight Powder, Bonne Mine Face Color Stick in Peach Glow and a mini Rose Gold Caviar Eye Stick.

For the holiday, the best beauty pick-me-up is a new lipstick or lipgloss. The Charlotte Tilbury Mini Lipstick Charms Set has made a comeback with Penelope Pink, Bitch Perfect and So Marilyn. For a little more glitz the MAC Viva Glam Miley Cyrus Lipglasses are surprisingly wearable even though they are on the sparkly side. I have last year’s and this year’s versions and even though I’m a neutral lip lover at heart – I find I can wear both without feeling like the shimmer is over the top. If you’re looking for a double-duty tint and hydrate lip, the Hourglass Lip Oil in Icon (c/o) is a splurge but worth a look. It feels super hydrating on dry lips and gives a glossy natural red tint.

For eyes, Charlotte Tilbury’s Fallen Angel Palette is still available even though it was launched last year. This is one of my most-worn palettes and since it is limited-edition I did buy a backup because the colors work so well without having to think about how to coordinate them. The shades are versatile enough to go with any lip and cheek color. 

If you’re feeling extra spendy – the Louboutin Nail Polishes are the ultimate splurge in luxury beauty. I own quite a few and really like them for the rich colors. I also find they last a long time on my nails. All the Nudes are swatched in this post here.

I hope you are all having a great week – the weekend is almost here! With all the busy aspects of the last month of the year, I hope you don’t forget to take a moment or two and treat yourself. I love the phrase, “on a bad day there’s always lipstick,” because sometimes a little extra bit of glam can really make me feel better or more put together, even if it’s just for a moment 🙂

What do you like to do to treat yourself during the holidays? Do you have any beauty tips, tricks or traditions to share? 


Many thanks to Nordstrom for teaming up to sponsor this post. As always all opinions my own.
20 Comments
Travel

Travel Gift Guide for the Girl on the Go/Jetsetter

December 2, 2015

Today’s gift guide is for the traveler and girl on-the-go. I’ve done a few travel posts before focusing on travel beauty which have been well received so I’ve included some favorites for gift ideas. I love that so many of you have given me recommendations in the past, I think they are so helpful to see what’s really useful and worked. If you have any to add it would be greatly appreciated!
  1. Wool and Cashmere Scarf – Nordstrom makes my favorite classic wool and cashmere blend scarves, they come in a lot of colors. These makes great gift for those who travel a lot because it’s compact and easy to store in your bag or purse.
  2. Frends Layla Headphones in Rose Gold/White – These have to be the prettiest headphones I’ve ever seen, I have and love the Bose Quietcomfort 25 Noise Cancelling ones – you don’t know how good they are until you use them on the plane, they are super pricey but well worth the splurge if you travel a lot.
  3. Canon Powershot G16 Camera – I have and love the Canon G16. I use it for a lot of blog photos and travel. It’s easy to use and works really well in low light situations. Another popular option is the Canon Powershot G7x which has a flip screen.
  4. Le Metier de Beaute Kaleidoscope Kits – I love these because they are so versatile and the well-coordinated colors make them super easy to use. Full Stream swatches + review here.
  5. West 57th Luggage Tag – I love Henri Bendel for cute and affordable accessories. This one is affordable chic option made of Saffiano leather.
  6. Passport Case – this one comes in a variety of colors and you can also personalize it!
  7. Mophie Powerstation Charging Unit – Maybe not the most exciting gift, but I have several of these and find them essential for last minute recharging on-the-go.
  8. Clemency Silk Sleeping Mask – This is so pretty I want one for myself. Also available in this pink floral option.
  9. L’Occitane Hand/Foot Cream Duo  – I think hand creams are usually on hand for most women I know, but often times foot creams are forgotten! It’s something I always wish I had while traveling so I end up using hand lotion on my feet instead.
  10. Anya Hindmarch Inflight Travel Case – This is my favorite travel accessory. It makes packing so much easier because it really helps you limit your beauty items to just the essentials. It has two compartments which allows you to flip it over and have easy access (no digging around). You can see what I fit inside mine in this post here.
  11. Byredo Bal D’Afrique Roller Ball Perfume  – I think buying perfume as a gift can be tricky unless you know the person well. For the traveler – if you know what her favorites are, pick up a travel size option. My friends who frequently have to travel at a last minute’s notice usually appreciate having a purse-size travel option on hand to throw in their bag.
  12. Kowonhye Easy Go Compact Brush Set from MustaeV – A good brush set is essential for any traveler. There are so many options these days it’s easy to find one. I’ve really liked the MustaeV Easy Go brushes and the Kowonhye Set has six very well made brushes for eyes, cheeks and face. It comes in a sturdy zip pouch that protects all your tools as well.
  13. Truffle Clarity Clutches – I think those who read this blog could bet $$$ that I would include this in my travel gift guide. I use these on a daily basis. Last year I stocked up on quite a few during their sale. They make really good quick and easy gifts for anyone.
  14. Longchamp Expandable Travel Tote (21″) – My husband and I bought this while in Paris because our carry-on situation wasn’t quite working (full story here). We found it to be the most affordable option that would allow us to carry a little bit more while still working as a carry on. The associate assured us when fully zipped it would pass all airline size requirements for under the seat. We were able to use it without any issues. Another good tote option for travel is the Tumi Just-In-Case Tote. It folds up into a compact square that you can put in your suitcase for those just in case moments.
  15. Tatcha Dewy Skin Mist and Sheet Mask – Anyone who travels frequently knows how easy it is for skin to become dry and parched with air travel. I hands down recommend Tatcha gifts – especially the travel sized versions. (Friends and family sale is still going on for 20% with code FF2015 at checkout, valid until 12/6.)
  16. T3 Featherweight Compact Folding Dryer – I bought one during the Nordstrom sale over the summer and really like it. Although most hotels these days have hair dryers, unless you stay at the same hotel in every city you travel, you never really know what kind of dryer will be in your room (or how old it is). This one folds so it fits nicely into your suitcase or bag. Review in this post here.

What are your favorite travel essentials that you would recommend gifting? P.S. I’m hosting a giveaway via Instagram – if you’re interested you can enter here.

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Uncategorized

Lately On Instagram

December 1, 2015

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend! Did you score anything good for Black Friday or Cyber Monday? Please share! I drove to the mall on Black Friday thinking everything would be less busy in the afternoon. I saw the parking situation was really bad and left immediately. I did venture to do a little shopping on Saturday but didn’t really pick up much that was on sale.

A few highlights and news bits from my Instagram feed. Since the holiday season is upon us, if you’re wanting to wear a red lip but are a neutral makeup lover like me, I rounded up 9 sheer red balms that are more natural looking than the traditional bold red.

For neutrals, I did a B2M for a few MAC Lipsticks in Koi Coral, Velvet Teddy and Patisserie. MAC lipsticks still make my lips dry out and peel, but the colors are so good I can’t stop wearing them.

Chanel relaunched the Les Tissages de Chanel in Tweed Pink – full review in yesterday’s post here. Did you end up purchasing it? Or are you waiting for spring to arrive at counters?

Last week I was thrilled to attend the Tom Ford Lips and Boys preview at the Beverly Hills store with Rae from The Raeviewer. We had so much fun and swatched up a storm. I’m waiting for a few to arrive this week and also my face is recovering from an allergic reaction – so thanks for your patience while waiting for the swatches. First impressions are that this year’s new colors are almost all shimmery. The one cream that stood out was Austin which is a nude pink cream. My heart belongs to Jake which is the perfect natural pink shimmer. I can’t wait to share the swatches of my picks.
Right now my favorite perfume is the L’Occitane Pierre Hermé Jasmin-Immortelle Neroli Eau de Toilette. I’m seriously considering a backup even though I’ve almost never backed up a perfume (I did it once for a limited-edition Jo Malone one).

My latest discovery is the Le Labo x The Laundress Detergent and I’m in trouble with this one. I bought Rose 31 and used it to wash our sheets and pillow cases and it’s amazing! I haven’t bought any Le Labo fragrances although I have smelled them at Barneys on numerous occasions. If you’re a Le Labo fan – please let me know what your favorites are!

Last but not least, if you’re a Nespresso lover, the holiday variations are out in three flavors: Vanilla Cardamom, Vanilla Amaretti and Ciocco Ginger. I ordered all three and my favorite is the Ciocco Ginger. I need to restock before they’re gone!

Hope your week is going well so far!
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Chanel

Chanel Les Tissages de Chanel in Tweed Pink – Cyber Monday Launch

November 30, 2015

On the nails: Chanel Le Vernis in Beige Rose

Today for Cyber Monday, Chanel launches their Les Tissages de Chanel Blush Duo Tweed Effect Blush in Tweed Pink #10 ($48, 5.5 g/0.19 oz, limited-edition, Chanel.com exclusive). This is a blush inspired by the iconic Chanel tweed fabric. The blush has a sparking overspray of gold and silver sparkles and once removed, a mix of two colors of pink blush is revealed underneath. Today I’m thrilled to be able to share the Cyber Monday launch of Tweed Pink #10.

Long time Chanel fans like myself will remember these Tweed Effect blushes from many years ago. There were a number of shades and limited-edition colors and then much to my dismay they were discontinued. These were among my favorites because they give the cheeks the perfect natural glow. Tweed Pink #10 was a classic used on me on almost every Chanel makeover I had. As soon as I saw the news that it Tweed Pink would launch for Cyber Monday I was extremely curious to see if it was a new one or a repromote. They share the same name and same product number. I pulled out the one from my stash and after testing, I do think the newly launched Tweed Pink does seem to me almost identical to the original. Those who missed out might want to explore this one now that’s it’s back. I have a full review + swatches of the 2015 release and if you scroll down you will see comparisons from the original to the new version.

Tweed Pink #10 is a light soft pink mix of two shades. All the Les Tissages de Chanel had an overspray and this year’s version also has a light dusting of gold and silver sparkle. Underneath you see a mix of two colors intertwined in a tweed-like effect. Tweed Pink has a mix of a deeper pink and a pale pink, both on the neutral-cool side. The color is glowy with super fine shimmers mixed in. On me I’ve found these to be a blush-highlighter mix in one. The colors are very natural and impossible to overdo which is nice for those who want a natural-looking blush. On the skin Tweed Pink is a light silvery cool pink but after it sits and warms up on the skin it does darken very slightly to give a natural baby pink flush.

With overspray removed:

Swatches below, I removed the overspray first and swatched the true color underneath. This is on bare skin without any base:

At an angle with flash, the flash captures the sparkle/dimension, on the skin it’s more of a subtle shimmer, not frosty at all:

Now for a few shots featuring the original versus new. The effect is almost identical, the difference is in the light pink color. The original Tweed Pink has a warmer light pink color, almost beige while the newer one has more of a cool pink undertone. The effect on the face/cheeks is still almost the same. You will be able to see them swatched side by side below as well to judge for yourself how similar or different they are. I do believe the newer version is slightly cooler-toned with a more visible glow. Comparing the labels, the product weight/amount from original to new is the same.

Close ups of the pans:

Swatch comparisons to a few other baby pink blushes:

Burberry Light Glow Natural Blush in Peony and Misty (reviewed here)
Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Colour Stick No. 21 (reviewed here)
Chanel Joues Contraste Lumière Coups de Minuit (reviewed here)

I’m really happy that Chanel had decided to bring this back. I hope this means that they will be launching more colors in this formula as I really like the natural glow these provide (although at this time I don’t have any more information). In my blush testing experience the Tweed Blushes are easy to use, impossible to overdo and effortless to apply. For those who like a classic natural blush look to compliment the rest of your beauty look, I think you will really like Tweed Pink.

If you’re a long-time Chanel fan, do you still own any of the tweed blushes? If not, what’s your current favorite baby pink blush? The Les Tissages de Chanel in Tweed Pink ($48) is available in limited quantities, currently exclusively at Chanel.com.

http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=MeQoh28EORo&subid=&offerid=407615.1&type=10&tmpid=17022&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chanel.com%2Fen_US%2Ffragrance-beauty%2FMakeup-Blush-LES-TISSAGES-DE-CHANEL-88711%2Fsku%2F88712

Many thanks to the Chanel team for sending Tweed Pink for review.

22 Comments
Sales

Cyber Monday Beauty Deals, New Product Releases, Promo Codes and More

November 30, 2015

1  /  2  /  3  /  4  /  5  /  6  /  7  /  8  /
9  /  10  /  11  /  12  /  13  /  14 

Here’s a roundup of Cyber Monday beauty deals along with a few new launches. Some of the Black Friday deals have extended to Monday, others are brand new offers:

A few good non-beauty deals on my radar:

  • Ann Taylor – 50% off everything with code EVERYTHING
  • Banana Republic – 40% off everything with code BESTCYBER
  • Bloomingdale’s – 25% off regular-priced sale items (exclusions apply)
  • J.Crew – 40% off 507 styles, 30% off everything else with code MONDAY
  • Joie – 25% off everything with code THANKS
  • Kate Spade – 30% off everything wide code SHINE
  • Shopbop – Use code GOBIG15 at checkout for:
    • 15% off orders $250+
    • 20% off orders $500+
    • 25% off orders $1,000+
  • Splendid – 40% off everything, including sale, with code CYBER
  • Truffle – 25% off your entire purchase with code GIFTING25, ends 12/1
  • Williams-Sonoma – Cyber Monday Sales and Saving, also use code SAVEMORE to get:
    • 10% off $50+
    • 15% off $100+
    • 20% off $200+
    • 25% off $500+
  • Williams-Sonoma Home – use code SAVENOW to get:
    • 10% off $250+
    • 15% off $500+
    • 20% off $1,000+
    • 25% off $2,000+
Happy sale shopping! 

5 Comments
Uncategorized

Skincare Cleaning Devices: Foreo Luna Mini and Le Mieux 4-in-1 Ultrasonic Anti-Aging Skin Perfecter

November 29, 2015

I’ve been testing a few skincare devices since last summer. I’ve been a huge fan of my Clarisonic Aria (now called Mia 3) and use the Cashmere Brush head (both reviewed here). It’s a skincare cleaning tool that I’ve been using for over a year and after and found that it’s been really good in keeping my skin clearer. It’s also been instrumental at improving skin texture. Out of the brushes I’ve tested, the Cashmere is my favorite for sensitive skin. After using it for a few months I switched back to the Normal Brush for a day and felt like it was extremely abrasive and rough – so I immediately ordered a replacement for my Cashmere brush head. If you like the concept of using a facial cleaning device that uses sonic technology but don’t like the concept of using a brush, I have two alternatives to share thoughts on today. I was fortunate to receive samples of a few devices to test, one is the Foreo Luna Mini ($139) and the other is the Le Mieux 4-in-1 Ultrasonic Anti-Aging Skin Perfecter ($189).

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First up is the Foreo Luna Mini ($139) in Cool Grey. This is an ultra compact cleaning device that gives the skin a deep cleanse with something called T-Sonic technology. These are pulses that are delivered through the silicone brushes to your face which helps loosen dirt, oil, dead skin cells and makeup residue in the skin.

The Luna Mini device channels 8,000 T-Sonic (transdermal sonic) pulsations every minute. For those who feel that brushes are too harsh for the skin, the quick-drying, non-porous silicone cleansing brushes offer a more gentle alternative. When testing this, I preferred to use a two-step double cleanse for evenings. I first removed all my makeup with cleansing water or cleansing oil (right now loving the Bioderma Sensibio for the dry weather and my sensitive skin). Then I followed with a regular cleanser and this device. I tested this with the cleansers I already owned, I found the ones with a creamy finish worked better than gel cleansers. The thicker ones just lathered up better for a deeper clean when using the Luna Mini.

There are two speeds with this device, I found both gentle enough for my skin and didn’t really have a preference for either one. I have small hands but long fingers so with this one I did find there was a slight learning curve to learn how to hold this without feeling like it would slip through my fingers. I like that it’s super compact and completely waterproof. A huge bonus is that a full charge is supposed to last up to 300 uses (they say about 5 months) which I think is really impressive. I haven’t used this that long (only a month now), but will report back after testing it.

Three of my favorite cleansers I used this with: First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser With Red Clay, First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser, and Amore Pacific Treatment Cleansing Foam (mini from the Moisture Bound Oil-Free Set).

The device is designed for all skintypes. There are different kinds of brushes on the device, the front has thinner touch-points gently cleanse sensitive or dry skin. The description says the backside has broad touch-points to refresh oilier skin on the back. I tried both and prefer the front – it’s more flexible and more gentle on the skin.

After testing this for a month 2-3x per week instead of the Clarisonic, I’ve found it to be a really good alternative to the Clarisonic. The silicone is very gentle on the face but still really effective. I like that it seems more sanitary compared to the brushes although I’ve never had issues with the Clarisonic brushes (I spray them regularly with alcohol). It does make the skin feel cleaner and less oily around the nose. If your skin is prone to irritation from brushes this is an excellent alternative. I really like the compact design. I think it will be really easy to carry while traveling. Right now Foreo is having their Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale, all devices are 25% off (no code needed). If you’ve been eyeing this, now is a great time to save.
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Next up is the Le Mieux 4-in-1 Ultrasonic Anti-Aging Skin Perfecter ($189 at QVC). I was really hesitant to try this tool because it looks like a skin scraper. I watched several demonstration videos before braving this and am really glad I did. This is a device that gives the face a micro-massage through 28,000 ultrasonic vibrations per second. It cleanses, tones and stimulates the skin to allow for a deep clean.

This is a 4 in 1 tool because it’s a cleanser, exfoliator, extractor and infuser. This chart from Le Mieux explains everything better than I can so I’ve added a screen shot. I’ve tested this since September using it 1x per week to really put it to the test and see if it worked as described. I have used this as a second or third cleanse step as well. You only need to add water to your face and then use the device, but I prefer to clean the skin entirely and remove all traces of makeup. This is gentle enough for my skin – it glides along the face easily, no tugging at all. I think it’s been really good for my skin in terms of exfoliating the sides of my face and along the chin. It really does help clean out the pores – especially along the sides of the nose and chin (my problem areas).

Here’s a close up of the device. There are three settings, Lo, Pulse and Hi. I like to use the Lo setting. Hi was ok too, just too intense for my skin on super sensitive days. If you read the user guide there are lot of different ways to use the device. My preference is to keep things simple, I used it with the lo setting and as a cleaner/extractor starting from the center of the face moving outwards.

If you watch the demonstration videos on QVC.com it will make sense to see how this works. For now I have a few photos demonstrated on my hand. Wet the skin with water, turn on the device and the move it along the skin.

 

Moving it will result in a super fine mist that comes from the device. It’s the sonic pulses moving along the skin and water to help clean out the oil and dirt from your pores. I found it really cleaned out the pores along the nose. It’s helped keep skin clearer and works as a super gentle extractor. For areas I’ve had some dry patches and flakes, it’s gently removed the layer of dead skin without ripping or breaking the skin.

Both are really good skincare discoveries for me. If you’re one who prefers at-home treatments rather than regular facials, these are good DIY kind of devices that you can use in between treatments. Both are on the expensive side but have made a significant noticeable difference in my skin. I like that they are both compact and don’t take up a lot of bathroom or shower space. They both seem to be travel-friendly as well.
I had my husband try both and he still prefers his Clarisonic Alphafit by far (review here, also Clarisonic is also having a sale this weekend, 20% off all devices with code CYBERWKND, ends 11/29). He says hands down if you’re looking for a good gift for the men in your life, the Clarisonic Alphafit is something he highly recommends. It’s something he doesn’t think guys would normally get for themselves, but it’s something they will definitely use and like if gifted. (I bought it for him and he uses it every day.)

For me, I still haven’t decided whether I prefer the Foreo or Clarisonic. My husband has expressed multiple times that he doesn’t like my Clarisonic Mia 3 because he finds it big and bulky. After testing the Foreo, I do feel the Clarisonic is a lot bigger, but it’s a different concept and design so I don’t know how it could be designed to be more compact. I do think for Clarisonic there is a big gap between the texture of brushes – I like the Cashmere brush but many have said it doesn’t do anything for their skin. The Foreo is a good one because I do think it’s more universal to fit more skin types and sensitivities.

Foreo devices can be found at a number of different retailers like Nordstrom and Sephora, but right now there is a 25% off sale at Foreo.com until 11/30 (no code needed). The Le Mieux 4-in-1 Ultrasonic Anti-Aging Skin Perfecter can be found at QVC.com.
Have you tried either Foreo or Le Mieux? If yes, what do you use and what are your thoughts? Would love to hear input on the Foreo cleansers or if you’ve tried any of the other devices.
Both the Foreo and Le Mieux devices were provided as press samples for review consideration. As always, all opinions my own.
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