I buy, receive and try a lot of different things in the course of a month. Probably more than most people you know and definitely more than is necessary. However, it is my job to know what’s going on in the world of wellness, beauty and fashion and I’m here for it!
We decided it was time to do a monthly review series, where I round up the things I have been gifted, purchased and tried within that month and let you know what’s worth trying and purchasing and what you should pass on. We would love your feedback on products and items you have been wanting reviewed. Please leave your suggestions in the comment section down below and we will be sure to test them out for you!
Merit Great Skin
My friend Dara Kaplan RAVES about this product so I got on a waitlist and ordered as soon as it was back in stock. I have been using it on and off for the last 5 weeks and while I do find it gives a nice glow to the skin I am not so blown away by it. The texture of it is very light and almost watery- which is not my favourite. I do like patting it onto skin after all my skincare as a base/ primer before makeup or before a makeup touch up. I don’t see myself repurchasing but it was worth the try!
RATING: 3.5/5
Jones Road Bronzer
Unfortunately, my favourite bronzer from Vapour has been discontinued so when Jones Road launched their new bronzer I ordered it right away. I was pleasantly surprised by this product, it’s the perfect mix of creamy, powdery and the right amount of bronze. Some can be too overwhelming and some are too light, especially in the non toxic space. This one is just right and I am loving it. It also has no sparkle, which I prefer. I bought shades; light tan and tan. The light tan is perfect. Tan is too dark for me. I also got the bronzer brush and love it so much! It’s a hit for me.
RATING: 5/5
Act & Acre Shampoo
I have been hearing about and seeing this product line EVERYWHERE, for some time now and was always curious to try. Recently, I have been on the hunt for new hair care brands and felt like it was time I try this out. I purchased a few of the products from the line but this shampoo, or cleanser, as they refer to it, is the one I have tried more than once and can give a pepper review on. It REALLY cleans the hair, like squeaky clean. My hairdresser was almost weirded out by the texture of my hair post use , but it gave my hair incredible volume and my waves lasted so much longer than they usually do. I don’t have oily hair at all so for me, this is something I will use once or twice a month when I need a good clean and to remove buildup. It’s definitely worth a try and I will report back on the other products I have tried.
RATING: 4/5
TheraFace
I really wanted to love this device, it seemed like one that did it all in 1 unit. Unfortunately it’s been a little bit of a mess for me. First off the LED light attachment didn’t work right off the bat, so I was never able to try it. The cleaning brush was underwhelming and very small, so not enjoyable to use. The microcurrent tool was the one aspect I enjoyed. The massage heads are not comfortable and don’t do much. I also contacted the brand to return the device as it’s defective, the LED wasn’t functional and I have not gotten a reply in over 3 weeks… Very upsetting for a product that costs over $500! I’d steer clear.
RATING: 2/5
Tower28 Lip stick/ balm
This lip stick / balm is INCREDIBLE. I already ordered back up, that’s when you know it’s good. I ordered this in the shade ‘mix’ . It’s the perfect beige-ish, nude, pink. It’s super moisturizing with great pigment, stays on nicely and I love the packaging. The price point is also excellent. Will definitely be constant in my lip rotation.
RATING: 5/5
Makeup by Mario surreal foundation
I will start by saying I am not a foundation girl and don’t like heavy makeup, BUT many of you asked me to review this product so I purchased it and here we are. It’s okay, nothing special or different than what is already out there. It fell a little flat for me and I didn’t reach for it for a night out. I find the finish of it nice but I don’t love the way it wears throughout the day. I wouldn’t repurchase but again, I am not a foundation fan.
RATING: 3/5
BR Collagen Serum
I am a huge BR fan, this is a new launch and a very cool formula. This serum delivers forms of collagen that can not be produced by the body, and I have noticed the change in my skin since adding this to my routine. I use this day and night after cleansing and toning, before my other serums. It’s very lightweight and seeps into skin seamlessly. I love the plumpness of my skin since using this product. Would definitely recommend it!
RATING: 5/5
Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Mask
I know this product has been around for many years and so many swear by it. I am not the biggest OH fan but felt I should give this mask a try. I liked it, I didn’t love it.. I have used it 3 times and while pore size isn’t a concern of mine, congestion is. I didn’t notice anything remarkable and I didn’t see the brightness I like to see after using a mask. I will use it here and there but I think there are much better pore cleansing and refining masks out there.
RATING: 3/5