Why a blog?

Somewhere to jot down all things I am passionate about.
My little space to rant, rave and ramble on about this and that.
Most of all, just to share my thoughts with the world!

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Clarisonic Mia

Mia outer packaging.

Hello beautiful people of the world  :-h  As you might know, I’m a big fan of the Clarisonic Pro Sonic Cleansing System, as I’ve already reviewed it in my Cleansing post, then raved about it some more in the Top 10 Award – My favourite products post!  When I was asked to express my interest in trying the Clarisonic Mia for Beauty Heaven as part of their Trial Team, I immediately stopped using the Pro unit, which I generally use every other night, unless I get lazy or am lacking in time.  [-X   Because I’m familiar with this type of product and how it teams up with my own skin, I’ve determined that despite how long I’ve been cleansing with a Clarisonic, when I stop using it frequently, my skin starts reverting back to it’s old ways and bad habits, which it did prior to kicking off this trial.  So with my skin all temperamental and driving me nuts  ~X(  I was ready to start this test drive.  >:/

Mia cleansing brush.
The Clarisonic Mia is a compact skin cleansing brush that features a high-speed, oscillating, massage-action to help slough away dead, built-up skin cells and surface dirt, while eliminate impurities from deep within the pores.  More efficient than traditional cleansing methods, yet gentle enough for even the most sensitive of skin, this tool cleans, softens and smooths in just one minute.  (*)

The cordless brush comes with a universal pLink multi-voltage charger, which has an Australia plug, but is compatible around the world if you buy the appropriate country adaptor.  **==  The pLink magnetically attaches to the brush handle for the purpose of recharging and a built-in LED light flashes to indicate the unit is charging and will remain solid when it’s fully charged.  The tool is sealed and waterproof, hence it’s OK to use in the shower and the brush is covered with a clear plastic removable cap to protect the cleaning bristles.  The one speed unit turns on by pressing the power button, located on the handle for easy access and then, using your cleanser of choice (or the trial sized Gentle Hydro Cleanser included with the pack), manoeuvre the brush over wet skin, using small circular motions across the face.  I start on my forehead and without applying any pressure and just allowing the soft bristles to do the cleaning, spending 20 seconds, before moving down across my nose and chin for another 20 seconds, followed by 10 seconds on each cheek.  Finally, I press the power button again to turn the unit off and rinse any cleansing debris from my skin using warm water.  :)
Mia pack contents.
Mia Universal pLink charger

I worried a Clarisonic might be too harsh for my fragile skin, as my therapist advised me to avoid abrasive facial scrubs, especially on the delicate inner cheeks and nose, an area prone to redness, so to prevent aggravating the problem.  :-O   As it turns out, the Clarisonic is NOT a scrubber, it’s simply a cleaning device and it doesn’t exacerbate my skin sensitivities at all.  #:-S   In fact, since I’ve been using this cleansing brush, my skin tone is more even and the redness significantly reduced.  \:D/  With just under two weeks to fully test the Clarisonic Mia, even with twice daily application, the obvious improvements at this stage are still only subtle.  :-w   I do however expect that after a month, when my skin has had time to complete a full cell cycle, I will see even greater results.  =D>

Before using the Mia.
The vibrating sensation during cleansing is invigorating and it instantly leaves my previously dull, lifeless-looking skin feeling exhilarated and energised.  :D   Afterward my skin is cleaner, smoother and softer, plus the gunk that’s dislodged from my congested pores, makes them appear refined and less noticeable.  My skin is now better balanced and is not producing as much oil, so my existing pimples clear rapidly and I’ve not suffered any new breakouts.  ;;)  Even though the changes are only moderate at this point, I’m happy with the general health of my skin, as it’s becoming slightly firmer, plumper and more resilient, with the highlight of my experience is being able to maintain a uniform complexion.  <:-P

After 2 weeks of using  the Mia.
I would highly recommend the Clarisonic Mia as the perfect cleansing tool to complement any daily skin care routine.  It encourages a quick response and delivers impressive, visible results to rejuvenate my skin and over a longer time, I hope to achieve a healthier, more radiant, youthful-looking complexion.  :x

Have you tried a unit like this or do you think that a cleansing device is probably just another gimmick?  :-?  Has anyone used one and if so were/are you so satisfied with the results your still using it like me?  :-/  I personally can’t fault the Clarisonic, how about you, is there anyone who perhaps a different point of view or experience o share, or can we unanimously agree it totally rocks??   :-*


The images in this post are generic, other than the before and after images, which are my own (and obviously not the best quality photo's)

L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil


Hi friends from all over the WWW:-h  This post is for another hair oil, very similar in fact to the L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil I have previously reviewed. This time the lovely folks at Beauty Heaven sent me out the L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil (I’m just loving these cool names btw, B-)  who thinks of them, LOL  :))  ultra mag and kinda catchy too) to test drive for their Trial Team.  Check out my thoughts:  :D
 
I have baby fine, straight, coloured hair that has oily roots and dry lengths, so previously the thought of adding oil of any shape, size or form was quite terrifying.  :-SS   I’ve since discovered that by using suitable treatment oils, which aren’t too heavy or rich, my mane won’t become limp or slick with oil and appear dirty,   #:-S   instead the nourishing formulas help counteract the oiliness and protect my mop, leaving it beautifully soft and shiny.  ;;)

L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil is a versatile blend of 6 botanical, flower oils  @};-  that brings out the natural beauty and health of your hair.  It retails for only $19.95 for 100mls,  <:-P  which is an absolute bargain compared to similar hair care oils on the market that can cost in excess of $50 for a bottle the same size.  :-O   Speaking of the bottle, the packaging of the L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil screams pure class and looks like it belongs in an upmarket salon, rather than on a supermarket shelf.  $-)  The stained glass bottle is translucent amber in colour and is of a solid, sturdy quality.  It features a pump-action lid that locks shut to avoid spills and allows the user to easily dispense the product without making a mess.  =D>

The weightless oil is clear in colour and has a sweet lolly-like fragrance that isn’t exactly my preferred type of scent, but it isn’t too overpowering, nor does it bother me to the point of avoiding it either.  ;)  The runny fluid has a silky texture that absorbs fast and most importantly doesn’t leave any greasy residue.  It can be used on either wet or dry tresses, as a conditioning treatment before washing to provide intense conditioning for damaged locks, for protection prior to styling, or as a finishing solution that controls static, smoothing away frizzy flyaways and creating a lustrous glossy sheen.  (*)

The multi-use oil is effective regardless how I use it, and because my hair is so fine, one pump supplies enough oil to evenly distribute throughout the strands of my hair.  The result is soft, sleek tresses that are nourished and more manageable, with greater flexibility and an enhanced all-over shine.  :x   In the past couple of weeks since I’ve been using this oil frequently, I can see a noticeable improvement in the overall condition of my hair, which looks and feels remarkably better.  To defy those bad hair days, I would absolutely recommend the L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil, as an ideal addition to any hair care regime, because the handy styling support delivers optimal hair health and luscious-looking locks at an unbeatable price that we can all afford.  \:D/

Have you tried any of the various hair oils available on the market these days?  :-/  Which one do you like the best, is it the cheapest, or have you concluded you get what you pay for??  :-?  Would love to hear your thoughts and how oil is a benefit for your hair care routine, based on experience and hair type.  Cheers for now! xxx ooo      :-*   >:D<


The image in this post is generic.