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!

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Elixia Eye Brightening Fluid


Hello friends everywhere!  :-h  This is the third and final Elixia review, that I have been test driving for the TrialTeam over at the leading Australian beauty website, Beauty Heaven.  Here are my thoughts based on my product experience as well as my own generic brand introduction that I’ve replicated in the first paragraph of all three reviews to help familiarise my readers with this particular range ;) 




I was completely unfamiliar with the brand Elixia when Beauty Heaven first asked me to participate in this trial,  :-/  so I took the opportunity to do some online research and promptly ascertained that this Australian company produces premium skin care based on science and clinical development.  I was sent three products representative of their High Performance Anti-Ageing range, which is all natural and free of nasties, albeit infused with a potent blend of peptides, antioxidants and actives, including Vitamins A (retinol), C and E.  These supercharged ingredients hold the key to reversing prematurely aged skin and are exactly what I look for in my skin care, so it was my eager expectation that Elixia should compliment my current anti-ageing routine to perfection.  :D  The products are formulated using an exclusive, innovative technology called TPM (Targeted Penetration Matris) to help deliver the effective cocktail of ingredients deep into the epidermis for better execution, whereby enhancing the absorption and penetration by up to 4 times




Hygienic roller-ball packaging
Twist to unlock the base
The Elixia Eye Brightening Fluid comes in a classy 10ml roller-ball style canister with the identifiable silver and bold magenta colour scheme that is consistent throughout the range and screams of superior quality.  $-)  I love the roller-ball presentation when it comes to eye treatments, because the design provides a hygienic, mess-free, application method that’s gentle enough for the delicate skin around the eye contour, whilst at the same time protecting the integrity of any ingredients vulnerable to air degradation, by encasing the product in a sealed, airtight dispenser.  :x  You just have to unlock the base of the pen-like housing, by twisting it in the direction of the ‘open’ arrow, displayed underneath, then press the button once to encourage the formula to release onto the roller-ball ready to 'rock and roll'.  After use, simply turn in the reverse direction toward the ‘close’ arrow to lock the base, which then makes it handy for popping into a purse to provide an instant reviver anywhere, any time.  I do, however, find, at times, too much product can surface after a solid press of the button that I suspect contributes to wastage,  :-S  so it pays to be very careful not to press too firmly during this process.  #-o  The other hindrance that I faced was, at one point, soon after I started using this product, it became blocked and I was unable to exude any product from the canister at all.  I thought the dispenser may have been faulty, but I soon remedied the problem, by standing the pen upside down overnight and thankfully when I attempted to use it next, it worked just fine.  *-:)


Too much product can emerge with a firm press


A full dose is too much for one application
The white, fluid-like formula is similar to a lotion, with a super lightweight texture and a smooth, velvety consistency.  It has a subtle aroma that smells delightful, but it’s ever so slight that it’s barely noticeable once contacted with the skin.  Initially the fluid feels a tad oily, but surprisingly it absorbs quickly with no trace of greasy residue.  I love how the metal roller-ball promptly cools, soothes and refreshes the delicate orbital area, particularly where the skin is thinner and always drier under the eye, leaving it replenished, ultra soft and smooth.  :)  By promoting a ‘bright-eyed’ effect that plumps and visibly tightens the fragile skin, reduces swelling and discoloration to help achieve a wide-awake appearance that is foolproof to disguise telltale puffy eyes and those dreaded dark circles that occur after too many late nights.  ;;) It works equally well, when applied under my makeup or as required for a revitalising ‘quick-fix’.  In addition to the daytime benefits, when employed on a nightly basis it helps keep the eye area moisturised and protected to prevent the onset of ageing symptoms before they rear their ugly head, not to mention, when I rise of a morning I’m already looking energised.  \:D/


It looks oily but leaves no residue
Despite the few issues I had dispensing the product; I positively love this eye treatment.  :-*   I’ve always been fond of roller-balls, especially during summer time when I prefer to keep my eye creams in the refrigerator, so that when I crawl out of bed in the morning, I beeline for the fridge because the cold temperature immediately increases the overall vitality of the surrounding skin and improves the appearance of tired, weary eyes.  I can then confidently go about my business knowing I look well-rested, thanks to concealing the evidence of minimal sleep, self inflicted by the odd all night shindigs. (:|  [-X   Over time, I have noticed the continual care has provided notable benefits such as fine lines looking softer and more relaxed, the tone is brighter and the previously slackened skin is tighter and firmer.  Overall, based on my experience I would recommend the Elixia Eye Brightening Fluid as an essential ‘pick-me-up’ for busy people who need to eliminate excess baggage and rejuvenate the eyes to achieve more radiant, youthful-looking appearance.  Send those bags packing with the ultimate beauty SOS for eye emergencies!   :-j

How do you manage to hide the telltale signs of too many late nights?  Do you have a quick remedy to disguise the evidence or a special eye treatment cream?  :-?   What are your thoughts on natural brands like Elixia, does it sound appealing or are you more confident using more renowned, big name professional brands?


All images in this post are my own.


Elixia Night Renew Complex


Hi peeps!  :-h  Carrying right along from the last Elixia review, here is another TrialTeam product I had the opportunity to experience thanks to Beauty Heaven.  Here are my thoughts as well as my own generic brand introduction that I’ve replicated in the first paragraph of each of these reviews to help familiarise the reader with this particular range ;) 

I was completely unfamiliar with the brand Elixia when Beauty Heaven first asked me to participate in this trial,  :-/  so I took the opportunity to do some online research and promptly ascertained that this Australian company produces premium skin care based on science and clinical development.  I was sent three products representative of their High Performance Anti-Ageing range, which is all natural and free of nasties, albeit infused with a potent blend of peptides, antioxidants and actives, including Vitamins A (retinol), C and E.  These supercharged ingredients hold the key to reversing prematurely aged skin and are exactly what I look for in my skin care, so it was my eager expectation that Elixia should compliment my current anti-ageing routine to perfection.  :D  The products are formulated using an exclusive, innovative technology called TPM (Targeted Penetration Matris) to help deliver the effective cocktail of ingredients deep into the epidermis for better execution, whereby enhancing the absorption and penetration by up to 4 times.

Just like the Daily SkinSmoothing Lotion, the Elixia Night Renew Complex is housed in a hygienic 30gm jar, brandishing the company logo, decorated with a silver and bold magenta colour scheme that is coordinated across the range.  The ingenious, uniquely modern dual-wall dispenser disc prevents skin contact with the lotion to avoid contamination or risk of bacteria.  The design is highly appealing to me as I have never been fond of pots or tubs that require the user to constantly ‘double dip’.  [-X  Elixia is leading the way in ergonomic airless beauty packaging, rather than opting for the outdated, jar-style containers, which in this day and age, should indefinitely be a thing of the past.  *-:)  The 'state-of the-art' design is clearly more hygienic because it blocks out oxygen, protecting the contents, so the natural, preservative-free formulations will maintain their purity and last longer.  This packaging is also very user friendly, delivering controlled doses that expel as much or as little product as needed.  A gentle press on the disc dispenses a small amount, whereas a firmer press releases a full dose, which is ample to treat the entire face, neck and décolletage as desired.  :-*

Airless packaging prevents contamination
Dispenser Disk delivers controlled doses















The rich, deep yellow formula
The cream has a lightweight consistency, but is a deeper coloured yellow than its daytime partner and is noticeably richer, yielding an almost silk-like texture.  As soon as I got my first whiff of the natural fragrance, I knew how potent this treatment cream was going to be, because it’s the distinct scent of retinol that I am familiar with, after experiencing other powerful Vitamin A skin care via other brands.  I actually don’t mind the smell and while it’s not exactly a ‘nice’ scent, to me, this smell means business and I know I can expect optimum performance from a product that’s jam packed, full of anti-ageing goodness.  Besides, the fragrance soon disappears, once it’s been applied to the skin.  The silky cream feels almost oily on my fingertips, yet it somehow miraculously melts into my skin without any trace of sticky residue whatsoever.  Similar nightly skin moisturisers normally turn my face into a greasy, feral mess by morning,  :">  now I can rise without a hint of shine or stubborn oil to be seen.  #:-S  Instead, it implements its magic during the night shift, so that when I wake my skin just feels ultra soft, smooth and nourished.  The high-performance ingredients are concocted to create a gentle formula that doesn’t cause any sensitivity issues such as irritation or redness to my often fussy skin, making it suitable for the most delicate complexions.  The most noticeable improvement over the past four weeks is less congestion of my pores, resulting in fewer pimples, while the stress related cystic acne I’ve battled with recently has all but vanished and my skin looks the clearest and healthiest it has for a long time.  =D>

It has a silky texture
This is my favourite of the three Elixia products I trialled and is the mostly complimentary night cream I have ever used, slotting straight into my existing skin care programme without exasperating my oily, sensitive skin conditions.  :x   The combination of these Elixia products has without a doubt proven its efficacy and the rejuvenating effects are clearly evident.  I now have a uniform skin tone, softer, more relaxed fine lines, plumper and firmer skin in areas that were beginning to slacken.  Overall, it paints my newly refined face as a picture of health.  This highly active night cream is a results driven workhorse, so I’m keen on seeing how much more I can achieve using the Elixia line-up over a longer timeframe.  :-SS  I would highly recommend Elixia Night Renew Complex to all skin care connoisseurs who are serious about obtaining a more youthful appearance.  This potent skin treatment makes a fitting weapon to fight the signs of prematurely aged skin and to top it off; it’s an absolute pleasure to use.  I owe the team at Beauty Heaven a huge thank you for the introduction to this intelligent brand of the future, which has opened my eyes to new technology and brought about a remarkably positive change in my complexion.  Extremely impressive!  :)>-

Have you found a natural skin care product that totally exceeded your expectations?  What do you look for in an anti-ageing night cream and have you been lucky enough to find your holy grail?  :-?   How about Elixia, have you heard of this brand or tried it for yourself? 


All images in this post are my own.

Elixia Daily Skin Smoothing Lotion


Howdy all,  :-h  I’m still with you here, but at this stage the majority of my posts are getting published on a monthly basis coz I’m still strapped to the eyeballs for time!  :-O  Anyway, always been a firm believer of the old saying ‘Better late than never’ so with that in mind, I’ll keep battling on to bring you as much as possible, if and when I can  ;)  This month I have some Elixia reviews, based on my experience as a member of the Trial Team for the number one Australian beauty website, Beauty Heaven, of which I've advocated for the past few years.  >:D< 

I was completely unfamiliar with the brand Elixia when Beauty Heaven first asked me to participate in this trial,  :-/  so I took the opportunity to do some online research and promptly ascertained that this Australian company produces premium skin care based on science and clinical development.  I was sent three products representative of their High Performance Anti-Ageing range, which is all natural and free of nasties, albeit infused with a potent blend of peptides, antioxidants and actives, including Vitamins A (retinol), C and E.  These supercharged ingredients hold the key to reversing prematurely aged skin and are exactly what I look for in my skin care, so it was my eager expectation that Elixia should compliment my current anti-ageing routine to perfection.  :D  The products are formulated using an exclusive, innovative technology called TPM (Targeted Penetration Matris) to help deliver the effective cocktail of ingredients deep into the epidermis for better execution, whereby enhancing the absorption and penetration by up to 4 times.


The Elixia Daily Skin Smoothing Lotion is presented in an attractive 30ml jar and decorated with silver and bold magenta panels that correspond accordingly throughout the range. Unlike a standard tub that requires the user to keep dipping fingers in and out of the contents; this unique pot features a dual-wall dispenser disc for the ultimate in hygiene.  This definitely impressed me, as I’m always complaining about ‘double dipping’ into my creams, a process that could easily contribute to the spread of bacteria.  :-S  Not to mention, this is the first time I’d even seen such practical packaging, with the modern approach utilising an airless design to protect the goodness of the natural ingredients and prolong the shelf life because the formulas don’t become susceptible to air degradation.  The user friendly design conveys controlled doses, so it’s effortless to extract as much or as little product as needed, simply by pressing gently on the disc to dispense a small amount and a heavier press releases more.  ;;)
The airless packaging protects the ingredients
The dispenser disc expels the product















The lightweight pale yellow lotion
The creamy textured lotion is a pale yellow colour and has a lightweight consistency with a subtle, citrus-like aroma.  It blends into my skin with ease and absorbs almost instantly, minus any tacky residue.  I have super oily skin that gets very greasy with many moisturisers, yet I didn’t see so much as a hint of shine on my skin, even hours after the initial application.  #:-S  I think I could even go as far as claiming that this treatment actually helps to balance my skin’s pH levels, therefore eliminating any excess oil production, because any greasiness has all but disappeared since I introduced Elixia to my skin.  It works wonders under my makeup, leaving my skin fresh and nourished throughout the day.  It doesn’t upset my sensitivity issues by provoking irritation or redness, nor does it clog my pores or trigger breakouts.  In fact, since I begun this regime, my skin has become exceptionally clear, with the odd spot now being few and far between.  It has even healed the stress related cystic acne that kept reoccurring on my face and neck earlier this year and there’s been no indication of another onslaught developing ever since.  This day cream also boasts natural sun blockers to protect against the harsh UV rays, therefore preventing further sun related damage and skin ageing.  This is a brilliant all-round moisturiser that is productively tackling a myriad of my skin existing concerns head on!  What more could I ask for?  Elixia has ALL my needs covered!  <:-P

It has a creamy texture
As anyone reading this will gather, I am amazed at how effective this moisturiser is, especially when used in conjunction with the night cream and eye cream from the same range.  In terms of results, not only is my skin looking clearer, smoother and free of pimples and excess oil, in just a month, I am already noticing the tone is a better clarity, the fine lines are softer and more relaxed in appearance and my skin looks extremely healthy and naturally radiant.  :)  I always struggle to find a daytime moisturiser that is not too rich, specifically when it contains such powerful ingredients and addresses my individual skin care needs, yet the Elixia Daily Skin Smoothing Lotion has literally bowled me over and I am excited at the prospect of possibly reducing the lines and wrinkles to a greater extent. :-SS  Regardless, I am still happy with the improvements I’ve achieved and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Elixia to anyone who takes their anti-ageing regime seriously, particularly if you’re partial to a natural skin care alternative that is on par, if not better than many professional lines currently available.  This lotion totally rocks!!!  \m/

What ingredients do you look for in your skin care, particularly your daytime skin treatments and moisturisers?  :-?  Have you tried this brand or any other natural skin care line-up that you believe is just as good if not better than the more commercial professional brands on the market?


All images in this post are my own.

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Dove Beauty Cream Bar


Hello lovelies!  :-h   This is another Dove product was sent to me c/o Beauty Heaven as part of their committed Trial Team, which I was required to test drive and then review based on my personal experience.  :D  Here’s what I thought: 

The Dove Beauty Cream Bar is an old favourite that has been around for even longer than me and over the years it has procured its rightful place with a home in my family bathroom.  ;)  I consider it to be the ‘Rolls Royce’ of all soaps, because this delightful beauty bar provides pure luxury when it comes to maintaining clean, comfortable skin.  Unlike your average cake of soap, a quarter of this cleansing bar is infused with the reputable rich and highly nourishing Dove moisturising lotion, therefore it’s more like a lotion and less like a soap.  ;;)  I have sensitive skin myself and my son, in particular, has an extremely allergic skin condition, so it’s important that we use a soap that will not cause irritation or exasperate the problem, hence the dermatologist approved recommendation of the Dove Beauty Cream Bar gives me peace of mind that it’s safe to use on the whole family, even those with the most sensitive of skin.  #:-S


Each beauty bar is individually packaged in a cardboard wrapper adorning the signature Dove packaging that is widely recognised.  It boasts a delectable scent, which appeals to me tenfold and satisfies my senses, in comparison to the majority of commercial soap bars on the market that smell like…..(umm) well just like soap.  #-o   For many years now, I have always avoided using harsh soaps on my body and especially on my face, as I don’t like the smell at all, nor the way that it leaves my skin feeling parched and stripped of it’s moisture.  :-O   The men in my family though, swear by a cake of soap for cleansing, so for that reason I always keep a bar in the shower and my first preference is definitely Dove because the fragrance is inviting and it makes the bathroom smell luscious.  @};-   Since the invitation to participate in this Beauty Heaven trial recently, I have been religiously using the beauty bar myself, in place of my normal cleansing products, for the purpose of delivering an accurate account of my experience and I have to admit I have not been disappointed.  <:-P

Whilst I mostly only use the Dove Beauty Cream Bar to wash my body, I have used it on my face as well and even though it’s not a practice that I employ all the time, I would confidently use it if I had no alternative, without worrying about it dehydrating my skin, additionally causing it to produce more oil, which then constitutes annoying breakouts.  :|  The beauty bar is super creamy in texture when it comes into contact with water and it easily works up into a rich, foamy lather that deeply cleans my skin, yet instantly transforms the overall appearance leaving it velvety soft, silky smooth and adequately conditioned, minus any tacky residue.  ;;)

This soap is the perfect addition to any bathroom, catering for men, women and children alike.  It is a multi-tasking product that would be handy for travelling, when you need to limit the amount of products you can take with you.  It is ideal for cleansing from head-to-toe, also making an effective substitute for a normal shampoo, in addition to a face and body wash.  =D>  I have also discovered it s a perfect makeshift shaving cream and because of the beneficial moisturising properties; it helps to guarantee a closer shave that protects my skin from developing razor burn, rashes or ingrown hairs.  *-:)  Dove Beauty Cream Bar is readily available at all leading supermarkets and pharmacies, very affordable, long lasting and reliable, earning its well respected reputation as being so much more than just soap, in fact it’s a beauty product in its own right.  (*) (*)  (*)  (*)

I’m sure most of you have tried this soap at some stage in your life, so fill us in on your thoughts!  How do you think it stacks up?  Is this a soap you could actually use, or do you think it’s basically the same as any other soap?  :-?  

The image presented in this post is generic.

Dove Clinical Protection Anti-Perspirant Deodorant


Howdy once again peeps!  :-h   Moving right along, this next product was sent to me c/o Beauty Heaven to trial and review as part of their committed Trial Team, of which I’ve been a member of for several years now.  :)  Here are my thoughts based on my experience.

I am a recent convert to the whole ‘Clinical Protection’ concept, after first discovering the Rexona version c/o a Beauty Heaven trial I took part in last year.  Considering I live in the vastly humid tropics of FNQ, an effective deodorant is mandatory, but fortunately this season I sailed through summer virtually unscathed in the war against body odour because this product theory lives up to its claims and really does reduce wetness and protect against perspiration for an extended 48 hour period.  \:D/  It works so well in fact, I have finally pulled the pin on my trusty ‘old faithful’ aerosol spray-on, which I have routinely used, on and off, for the majority of my life, in conjunction with various other ‘BO abolishers’, such as sprays, roll-ons, pump-actions, solids, powders and natural formulations.  ^:)^  'Clinical Protection' is now my weapon of choice to combat any ‘perspiration blues’ that typically come hand in hand with residing in such a sizzling hot climate.  o-+   When Beauty Heaven invited me to trial the Dove Clinical Protection Anti-Perspirant Deodorant this year, I was quick to accept and couldn’t wait to see how it compared to the Rexona version, which I granted a 5-star rating and have used ever since.  So, it certainly had some big shoes to fill if it was able to come up trumps and earn my trust as the better of the two by safeguarding me against the unpleasant effects of the dreaded body odour.  >:D<

Just like its Rexona cousin, the Dove Clinical Protection Anti-Perspirant Deodorant is housed in a translucent plastic canister with an inner tube that encases the contents, featuring a twist-up dispenser with a sifter/sieve on top where the product is expelled.  You need to twist the dial at the base to encourage the deodorant to emerge at the surface of the applicator.  The first attempt always take several turns of the dial to get any product to arise, but thereafter I find that two twists is sufficient for a single application, one click per arm.  Based on my own preference, I don’t use anymore than the one click per arm otherwise I find it contributes to wastage, because the smallest amount of this cream blends adequately over my skin and is more than enough to perform the task at hand.  *-:)  The texture is a thick white cream, similar to that of a rich, moisturising balm, however it absorbs quickly and dries to a powder-like finish as soon as it is transferred to the skin, with no sticky residue.  It is scented with the signature Dove fragrance that I adore, a light, fresh, almost baby powder-like scent that is suitable for both males and females alike.  ;;)  While I can initially smell the fragrance, it soon fades after application so it never clashes with other perfumes or body sprays that I choose to wear.   @};-

The directions state for best results it should be applied at night before going to bed and even though I can vouch it still manages to keep me dry in on the second day, during the really hot summer months, I personally prefer to use it religiously every night after showering, rather than every second night, just for my own conscience.  You need not re-apply it of a morning because the nightly application lasts right through the day, even after showering.  :-/  Don’t ask me how, but believe me when I say it’s some kind of ‘magic’, because it most certainly does keep on powering on.  ;)  I am also thrilled that it does not cause any irritation to my sensitive skin, especially after shaving, nor does it contribute to any white marks on my darker clothing or yellowing stains to my whites.  #:-S  The feature that impresses me most about this Dove Clinical Protection Anti-Perspirant Deodorant is that it is infused with additional moisturising properties to keep my skin soft and conditioned, unlike other deodorants that are full of ingredients like alcohol, which make my underarms all dry and scaly.  The only downside of this product (and Clinical Protection deodorants in general) is that it is probably twice as expensive as a ‘normal’ deodorant and that I really have to be diligent in making sure I only use the smallest amount possible each application to make it last the distance, as it does tend to run out rather quickly.  :-<   The packaging is quite deceiving due to the outer armour that conceals the inner tube where the actual deodorant is located, so it looks much bigger than it actually is, therefore it sneaks up on me and starts running low before I realise.  :( 

Other than the size factor, I honestly don’t anything negative at all to say.  This deodorant works exceptionally well (better than exceptionally well, in fact it’s ALL that works :D  ) and is the ultimate answer to my ongoing summertime ‘BO nightmares'.  In comparison to the Rexona version, I would say, it has exceeded my expectations and wins hands down as my new favourite, with its delightful fragrance being slightly more appealing and the bonus that it delivers much needed moisture to a usually neglected area (my underarms) that I unintentionally deprive of any TLC.   I am normally fussy when it comes to spending more than what is necessary on the cost of my personal items, but there is nothing available that compares to the efficacy of a Clinical Protection deodorant when it comes to stamping out perspiration, so I am willing to bear the extra expense, because I am confident that my underarms are well protected with a waterproof shield and left smelling clean and fresh, even if the rest of me is soaking with sweat.  <:-P   If I don’t use this product for a couple of days, I can immediately notice the wretched symptoms of body odour returning and there is nothing that truly masks that ugly smell, :-O  hence the need to prevent it at all costs.  :-t   I would gladly shout out to the whole world and let them know just how good this stuff is, without a doubt!  =D>   If you have not yet tried the Dove Clinical Protection Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, regardless if you’re a man or women, young or old, don’t ever allow body odour get the better of you again, armed with this performer you can win this war because it's a workhorse that is absolutely reliable and will never let you down.  :x  Easily earning a 5 star  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  + + + rating from me.  Actually it would score even higher if that were an option!  ;)

There you have it, I’m obviously smitten with my new saving grace, what about you?  Have you tried this deodorant yet, or one of the other Clinical Protection varieties available?  Do you think it’s worth the extra $$$ or do you have a better solution when it comes to eliminating BO once and for all?  :-?  This subject hits close to home, so keen to hear recommendations from others for effective ways to fight off perspiration?   B-)

The image presented in this post is generic.

White Glo Extreme Whitening Pen


Hi beauty lovers everywhere!  :-h  Tammerly, that you probably already know as Pink Diva from Spoilt sent me a couple of White Glo products to test drive and review for her awesome beauty website.  ;)  This next one is the White Glo Extreme Whitening Pen, which is linked here to the original.  Here are my thoughts.

In light of having limited success with various OTC whitening products aimed at disguising the slowly deteriorating appearance of my teeth, partially caused by my caffeine addiction along with the general ageing process.  :">  I was intrigued when I learnt about the White Glo Extreme Whitening Pen, a high-strength peroxide whitening gel, in a 100% safe and effective dentist formulation, for a use anywhere fast, convenient application.  It claims that you simply need to brush the solution straight onto the teeth for a whiter, brighter smile.  :D  Sounds good to me!   =D>


Considering the White Glo Extreme Whitening Pen is of similar size to a small laundry market, it has rather large packaging, with a plastic insert slipped into the bright orange, outer cardboard box, housing the pen.  Upon closer inspection, in true White Glo style, I discovered the inclusion of …….(wait for it!  :-w  ) a BONUS!   <:-P   Yes!  Added to the pack are 7 White Glo Extreme Whitening Strips, all tucked up beneath the pen, justifying the need for the more bulky packaging.  B-)  The pen is made with transparent plastic and stamped with the same orange logo corresponding with the box.  Dispensing the clear gel onto the brush-like tip requires twisting the base of the pen until the bristles are moistened with the solution.  This takes several twists on the first attempt; but thereafter the product emerges quickly requiring just a couple of turns.  The next step is quite simply, painting the gel directly onto the teeth, avoiding the gums, a process I found totally effortless.  Then kick back  (or catch up on some zzz's  I-)  ) for 10 – 20 mins as it works its ‘magic’, until it’s time to wash it off.  The formula isn’t irritating at all or unpleasant to taste, although I tried my best not to swallow or get any down my throat.  #:-S  After 20 minutes, a quick rinse with water unveils teeth that look brighter and at least a shade lighter.  Whilst it doesn’t remove any stains, it definitely brought out the white and left the surface feeling super smooth and ultra polished, like I just stepped out of the dentist.  :)

The strips were presented in foil-like sachets that tear open for a single use application.  Inside the foil are two differently shaped strips, designed to sit along the upper and lower rows of teeth.  I found these strips were rather awkward and fiddly to insert, plus they were very ill fitting.  :|  I had a little trouble getting the top strip to stay put as I applied gentle pressure to mould it place, but the bottom one wouldn’t hold at all, therefore I needed to bite down on the strip to keep it secure.  :-/  The small strips only cater for the front section of teeth rather than the entire row, so someone with big teeth would have even more trouble with the alignment than I had with my smaller teeth.  :-S  After application, the waiting time is 10 – 30 minutes, but I struggled after only 10 mins, due to the uncomfortable, annoying feeling of something foreign in my mouth,  (that kept making me gag  :-&  ) particularly since the lower strip wasn’t stable.  The formulation is tasteless and it doesn’t aggravate my sensitive gums at all, so the negative side to my experience rests with the size and application issues.  #-o  Despite being a nuisance, the White Glo Extreme Whitening Strips do work effectively, well at least on my top teeth anyway, which after just one application, appeared at least a shade lighter, as well as super smooth, bright and shiny.  :)>-

Overall, the pen was my preference of the two variations featured in this pack and I would consider repurchasing it in future as a permanent staple in my beauty kit.  Even though the strips deliver a noticeable outcome, due to the incompetent application process, I honestly doubt I could rely on them too often, nor would I buy them if they were sold separately.  :-"   For those of us who can’t afford to visit the dentist for professional teeth whitening, this DIY at home version stacks up OK and it’s just a fraction of the price.  The White Glo Extreme Whitening Pen is far more superior to similar items on the market I’ve previously tried, so I rate it with 4 stars out of 5  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  because it provides fast, effective results you can really see.  \:D/

Are you happy with the colour of your teeth or do you think they could be whiter?  Do you get your teeth professionally whitened for cosmetic purposes?  Have you tried whitening your teeth at home with this product or something similar?  How would you rate your experience??  :-?  Please, tell us in the comments section below! xxx ooo

The image presented in this post is generic.

Friday, April 27, 2012

White Glo Professional Choice Whitening Toothpaste


Hello World!  :-h   Tammerly, also known as Pink Diva from Spoilt sent me a couple of White Glo products to test drive and review for her awesome beauty website.  ;)  The first being the White Glo Professional Choice Whitening Toothpaste, which is linked to my original review.  Here are my thoughts.

I have always taken care of my teeth and know the importance of good oral hygiene, but despite frequent brushing and dental checkups throughout my youth, the ravages of time are evident and consequently, my pearly whites are not so white at all anymore.  =((  Due to the cost of living, I can’t afford regular dentist appointments anymore, unless it’s for something urgent, so instead I opt for ‘so-called’ whitening toothpastes that have flooded the market in recent years - all to no avail!  :(   I have yet to find a decent product to brighten my smile but am constantly looking at new options such as the White Glo Professional Choice Whitening Toothpaste, which claims to be originally formulated for film actors and models that require utmost facial beautification, to lighten discolouration and yellowing on tooth enamel.  It is also rated as the #1 effective whitening toothpaste based on an independent Australian consumer trial.  That sounds very promising to me!  [-O<


When I received the White Glo Professional Choice Whitening Toothpaste, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it comes bundled with a White Glo Anti-Stain Toothbrush, as well as a mini set of White Glo Dental Flosser ToothpicksWOW - impressive!   =D>  All of that for a retail price of less than $5, available in most supermarkets and pharmacies everywhere.  Just the toothpaste alone works out cheaper than most others on the market; especially for a whitening version.  Not to mention, it’s highly unlikely that I could nab a quality toothbrush for that cheap, so it’s a bargain for those on a budget.  <:-P  The well presented bundle boasts attractive red and white, ultra glossy packaging and includes everything to cater for my daily oral care needs.  I was completely smitten at scoring the new toothbrush as my existing one had seen better days.  #-o  It makes sense bundling it with the toothpaste to serve as a reminder to us all that our toothbrush needs replacing often.  [-X  The toothpaste comes in a standard tube, although the 150gm size is considerably larger than common varieties.  A sturdy screw-top lid functions as a base to stand the product upright.  The texture and consistency resembles any other non-gel style toothpaste, white in colour with a refreshingly minty taste.  One distinguishing feature that sets it apart is that it froths up upon contact with water and is foamier than other formulations I have tried.  Due to this, I needed less toothpaste on my toothbrush, yet it still cleans my teeth to perfection.  :D

The soft to medium-bristled toothbrush is ideal for my sensitive teeth and gums because bristles that are too firm can be abrasive, damaging my gums and protective tooth enamel, while those that are too soft just don’t clean properly.  :-S   It has a flexible, slimline handle adorned with ‘no-slip’ grips making it comfortable to hold.  The handle supports a large tapered head and due to the size it’s slightly difficult to manoeuvre in the hard to reach areas of my mouth, however the staggered bristle lengths ensures better access to all surfaces, like the sides and backs of the molars.  #:-S  The suction cap positioned on the lower flip-side of the handle allows me to stick my toothbrush on the shower or vanity so it’s always accessible and won’t get misplaced.  *-:)  The bonus toothpicks are inadequate and don’t work nearly as well as regular dental floss or toothpicks.  Because the plastic is too pliable and thick, it’s difficult to effectively remove plaque or food particles wedged between my teeth.  :-/  The small convenient pack, nevertheless, would be practical to pop in the handbag for unexpected emergencies after eating when away from home, in lieu of adopting on a daily ritual.  B-)

I have been using the toothpaste and toothbrush combination for about two weeks now and whilst I am content that it efficiently cleans my teeth, I can’t say at this stage there is any noticeable difference to the overall colour.  I will continue using the toothpaste in hope of better performance over a longer period of time.  :-w Despite not achieving the desired whitening effect, I would still buy the White Glo Professional Choice Whitening Toothpaste again in the future.  It is just as good as any standard toothpaste in the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums.  Besides, the handy pack practically screams ‘Value Plus’ eliminating the need to purchase separate products.  \:D/  Unfortunately, I had to deduct marks because my choppers are not visibly whiter or brighter as professed, therefore I’m rating it with 3.5 stars out of 5  (*)  (*)  (*) ½  (*)  with the possibility that I might see improved results with long term use.  :-SS

Are your teeth as white as you think they should be?  Do you use OTC whitening toothpastes to try and brighten up your smile?  If so have you had any success or do you feel it’s a waste of time?  :-?  Shre your thoughts, experiences and any recommendations below. :)

The image presented in this post is generic.