{Test This} nuNAAT’s Ultra Keratin Touch


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“The results were so spectacular, she wept,” reads an article in New York Times about a woman who received a Brazilian Keratin hair treatment. “Such a gushing testimonial is not unusual” the article goes on to say.

The hair treatment, pioneered in Brazil, uses active keratin, a protein akin to a component of human hair. It yields results that are undoubtedly pretty spectacular. Keratin treated hair is sleeker, straighter, shinier and lasts up to a month. We’re sold on the concept, but not so much on the $250-per-application salon bill.

So, when we heard that nuNAAT released a kit which provides you with everything you need to do your own Keratin hair treatment at home, we wanted to know the straight dope.

The kit retails for $24.95 and includes shampoo, gloss and conditioner. The formula is derived from “soybean, corn and wheat that are bio-compatible with hair fibers, allowing for the temporary change in hair structure,” according to the company.

“Very curly hair will become smoother, while naturally straight hair will appear healthier and shinier. Extremely coarse hair types will see a reduction in frizz and curl.” says the manufacturer.  Does this at-home Brazilian Keratin treatment shine above salon treatments? We want to know! 8 FOFs will test this kit. Leave a comment below for a chance to win.

P.S. Want to be guaranteed a product to test? Join the FOF Beauty Club now!

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(See all our past winners, here.) (See official rules, here.) Contest closes August 29, 2012 at midnight E.S.T.

Best Hair Products and Shampoos for Women Over 50

By Lois Joy Johnson

I don’t do splurge / steal comparisons of products. In my opinion some pricey picks are stand-alone stars worth every dollar. On the other hand some low-cost items have remarkable quality and performance so why pay more? As a premium generation of cross-shoppers we know mixing high and low is the way to go. Age-related hair issues drive our purchases now. We want easy, fast results and hair that looks healthy, contemporary, thick, natural and sexy. Here are the 10 products not to miss and no, you don’t need all 10!

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[portfolio_slideshow]

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Lois Joy Johnson is a leading expert on style and beauty and the author of Great Hair After 50: A Vibrant Nation Guide and The Makeup Wakeup, a critically acclaimed guide to looking fabulous at any age. She’s the former Beauty and Fashion Director of MORE magazine. Her newest book, The Wardrobe Wakeup will be available in December 2012.
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{Test This} Turmeric Antioxidant Radiance Mask

Test This: Juara Turmeric Antioxidant Radiance Mask
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The Turmeric Antioxidant Radiance Mask (retail value $35) by Juara features the exotic spice as a key ingredient. Turmeric is most notably used in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, however, women of these cultures also have a long history using the spice as an anti-ager. In Indonesia, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, turmeric even plays a large role in bridal beatification ceremonies.

Is all the hype about turmeric–the secret beauty spice–legit or lore? The spice “maintains skin health by neutralizing toxins and fighting off free radical damage, a key cause of premature aging,” according to Juara, the manufacturers of the Turmeric Antioxidant Radiance Mask.

They claim that if you apply their turmeric mask to your face, just two to three times a week for 10 to 15 minutes this “instant pick me up…brightens complexion and evens out skin tone.”

Is this product all spice and everything nice? 6 FOFs will put it to the test. Leave a comment below for a chance to win.

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(See all our past winners, here.) (See official rules, here.) Contest closes August 22, 2012 at midnight E.S.T.

{Tested} WEN Hair Care

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You may have seen the compelling infomercials for the WEN Haircare System that promise shinier, more voluminous hair. Nine FOFs tested the entire system (retail value: $29.95) which contains a conditioner, a styling cream, an “intensive” hair treatment, a texture balm and a comb.

Reps at WEN say shampoos that lather use sulfates and detergents and “strip your hair of natural essential oils. WEN’s no-lather products are made from ?“a perfect blend of herbs and natural ingredients,” according to the company. The system “cleanses and conditions without harsh chemicals to improve the look and feel of hair.”

Was this “As Seen on TV” product—a turn on or turn off? Read the reviews, below.

P.S. Want to be guaranteed a product to test? Join the FOF Beauty Club now!

**Quick take: 7 out of 9 testers would recommend this product to other FOFs.**

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ANGIE RODRIGUEZ – Baltimore, MD

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
The box was departmentalized with the conditioning cleanser in one section, the deep conditioner in another section, the styling cream in another, and a wide tooth comb and texturizing balm. There were explicit directions on how to use the products printed on the inside and on all the bottles.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
Yes, the almond mint was a wonderful, clean smell.

Did the products give your hair more volume?
Yes, and it was much softer.

Was your hair more manageable?
Yes. I noticed a difference with the first use.

What was your overall experience with these products?
I enjoyed it very much. My hair is very coarse and textured, so, I noticed a difference right away.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
Just that it is no longer frizzy. That’s a big plus.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
That price is higher than I would normally spend, but I think I would purchase it.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Yes.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
5

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SUSAN LEWIS – Dallas, TX

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
Love the pump dispenser. The products, especially the cleansing conditioner, are time consuming to use. I’m more of a wash and air dry person and don’t like to spend a lot of time washing and styling my hair.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
It was okay–not too strong.

Did they give your hair more volume?
I could not see a real difference in volume after using these products. I usually do not use too many products in my hair as they tend to weigh it down.

Was your hair more manageable?
Not really.

What was your overall experience with these products?
These products were too time consuming. They did not offer enough of an improvement to my hair to warrant the high price.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
No.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
No, I would not. Did not notice enough of an improvement in my hair to pay such a high price.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
No, unless people are willing to pay a high price.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best).
2

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PATRICIA LOCKE – Lebanon, TN

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
The package is pretty good. Had to pump several times to get enough product.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
The fragrance was okay, a little too medicinal, but it didn’t linger too long.

Did the products give your hair more volume?
Yes.

Was your hair more manageable?
Fairly manageable.

What was your overall experience with these products?
Good.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
My hair is slightly improved.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
Yes, if I felt I could afford them at the time.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Yes.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
4

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ALEXIS MARNEL – NYC, NY

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
Packaging was very attractive. Seemed like a lot to read/prep before you could use it. You have to part your hair in four section and apply product to each section.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
Yes.

Did the products give your hair more volume?
Some.

Was your hair more manageable?
Yes.

What was your overall experience with these products?
I didn’t love it, but really liked it. It was a good experience and glad I tried it. The scent is magnificent.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
No.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
Yes, if I felt I needed a change from my current products.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Yes. It’s a good product. I think for me, it just seemed to take up more time in the shower.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
4

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BECKY BODKIN – Dayton, Tennessee

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
Packaging is great, products were easy to use.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
Love almonds but do not like almond-scented products so I was worried. I was pleasantly surprised, the products have a nice, natural scent.

Did the products give your hair more volume?
Yes.

Was your hair more manageable?
Overall–yes.

What was your overall experience with these products?
Great. Love the smell, the conditioning, the feel of my hair.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
No.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
Yes. Great value, great products.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Yes.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
4…probably a 5 when I get my styling efforts under control.

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VERNA CIMPERMAN – Elk Grove, CA

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
Yes, I like the pump that was included.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
Yes, very mild.

Did the products give your hair more volume?
I didn’t notice any difference.

Was your hair more manageable?
Yes, and softer.

What was your overall experience with these products?
I like that the cleaner and conditioner were one product. Normally, [two-in-ones] are oily. But, not in this case.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
Not really.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
Probably not. I don’t spend that much on hair products and I don’t think this was that great.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Yes, if they want to invest that much.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
4

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KATHLEEN A. RILEY-DANIELS – Minnetonka, MN

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
I liked the packaging for the most part. The only one that was a bit messy was the deep conditioner. The shampoo, balm and gel were simple to get out and put onto my hair.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
Yes, this was a good fit for me. I noticed that the products felt good on my scalp too.

Did they give your hair more volume?
I had hoped for good volume with better control. I did not notice [my hair] being any different than when I use Moroccan Oil or Aveda products.

Was your hair more manageable?
Yes, I did notice a difference. With most products, I am still unable to get a comb through my hair when it is wet. [After using Wen] I was able to comb through with no snags.

What was your overall experience with these products?
I liked the products overall, and will continue to use them until they are gone.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
When my hair is dry, I am not seeing any difference.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
If the shipping were free, I would order at this price.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Maybe. I liked being able to comb through my hair, but is it enough of a difference to recommend the products? Not sure on that. I anticipated better results.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
3

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JOANNA BAKER – Cleveland, Ohio

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
The packaging was good. It was very eco-friendly–not too much excessive plastic and cardboard to throw away.The product was a bit different to use. [You have to] section the hair into four sections and apply the cleansing conditioner to each–but, it was easy enough.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
Yes, they smelled really good.

What was your overall experience with these products?
At first my hair felt amazing. Softer, fuller and easier to style. But, by the afternoon, I noticed that my hair was looking greasy and a bit stringy. I think it was too much of a conditioner and not enough of a cleanser. I continued to use it thinking my hair would get used to it, but it did not.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
It made my hair oilier.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
No. It was obviously not meant for someone with fine, straight, oily hair.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Yes, to friends who have extremely dry, over-processed hair.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
1

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TRACEY BYRAM – Alabaster, AL

Tell us about the packaging and application. Were these products easy to use?
Yes.

Did you like the fragrance of these products?
Yes, the products smelled clean and fresh. It was an invigorating scent.

Did they give your hair more volume?
Some volume.

Was your hair more manageable?
My hair was softer and smoother after using Wen.

What was your overall experience with these products?
The Wen products left my hair smooth and soft. They added volume and made my hair look healthy.

Have you noticed any other differences in your hair after one week?
No.

Would you purchase these products for $29.95? Why or why not?
Maybe–they are good products but too pricey.

Would you recommend these products to other FOFs?
Yes–they would be good for all hair types and lengths.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best):
5

{Tested} Karuna Age-Defying Mask


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Karuna reps say their Age-Defying Mask (retail value: $28 for 4 masks) will “promote skin that looks younger and feels more resilient.” While you relax, natural ingredients including Chinese licorice, wild yam and elderberry extracts work on your skin “improving cell vitality” and leaving you with a feeling of “hydration, nourishment and renewal.”

Is this product a blessing in disguise? 8 FOFs put Karuna’s Age-Defying Mask to the test. Read on for their reviews.

P.S. Want to be guaranteed a product to test? Join the FOF Beauty Club now!

**Quick take: 5 out of 8 testers would recommend this product to other FOFs.**

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Janice Harness – Bartlesville, OK

Tell us about the packaging and application. Was this product easy to use?
Extremely easy to use with very upscale, luxury packaging.

Did you like the smell of this product?
[It’s] not heavily scented. [It’s] very light, fresh and clean [smelling.]

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
[I] laid down to rest and relax and actually fell asleep while wearing this. [It was] very comfortable!

Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
My skin felt very hydrated for several hours after removing the mask.

What was your overall experience with this product?
I don’t feel that my skin needs this sort of treatment as much in the summer months [because] I am not a sun worshipper. [It was] very calming, very refreshing and anticipate this being a “must have” addition to my winter skin care.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after two weeks?
My skin has more of a glow — an overall healthier appearance.

Would you purchase this product for $28? Why or why not?
Considering the prices of other masks on the market I would definitely purchase these.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Absolutely!

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best).
Most definitely a 5! Can’t wait to try the ones for the eyes!

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Sharon Chaffin – Norman, Oklahoma

Tell us about the packaging and application. Was this product easy to use?
The packaging was nice. It came in a small box which opened through the front with all four applications inside. The product was very easy to use, you just unfold the mask and place the wet side to your face, then peel off the back side and press to your face. You leave on for 10-20 minutes it did not drip it stuck to my face, there was a nice cooling to it.

Did you like the smell of this product?
The product did not have a smell to it.

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
I laid in bed watching tv as my mask was on, when i removed it i threw it away and gently massaged the residue of the mask onto my face.

Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
My face felt like it have a drink of water my skin felt very hydrated.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after two weeks?
My face is normal to oily, oily in the Tzone, i am normally oily in my Tzone in the morning after i wake up. When i used the mask the next morning i was not nearly as oily as i normally am.

What was your overall experience with this product?
The overall experience with this product was a good one my face felt like it have a drink of water my skin felt very hydrated. I am a flight attendant so that drink of water to my face was a very needed drink.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
I would recommend this product and i would purchase this product in the future.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being the best).
5 – I loved it. I am very glad I tried this product.

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Sheree Fournerat – Katy, TX

Tell us about the packaging and application. Was this product easy to use?
The first time I used it, I actually tore the paper and the mask because it was folded in on itself in the package. The remaining packages were easier. I applied the first mask and laid on a towel covered pillow to catch any drips. After that, I applied the mask in the tub and just relaxed. It was very easy to manipulate into place.

Did you like the smell of this product?
The scent of astringent is very strong when the package is opened but it disappears very quickly and was not noticeable when the mask was on.

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
Yes. I just laid back for 20 minutes and relaxed and listened to music. The mask was very cool on my face and the slight tingling was refreshing.

What was your overall experience with this product?
The mask was refreshing while it was on but I did not like leaving the product on my face after I removed the mask. It took a while to dry and made my skin feel clammy and tight at the same time.

Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
Whereas I do feel like my skin was hydrated while the product remained on my face, as soon as I washed the product off my face, the hydrating benefits washed off as well. My skin was left feeling smoother but it was slightly red for about an hour after I rinsed the product off.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 2 weeks?
My skin does feel smoother and softer, but I don’t notice any reduction in the fine lines.

Would you purchase this product for $28? Why or why not?
No. I was not comfortable with the product that was left on my face.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
If you don’t mind sleeping with a gelatinous product on your face or walking around with it on your face if you use the mask first thing in the morning, it is fine.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
2.

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Donna Blair – Hollidaysburg, PA

Tell us about the packaging and application. Was this product easy to use?
The packaging was nice, loved the lettering and symbols, made me interested to look further. It was extremely easy to apply. No mixing or slathering, just open and find the proper “holes!”

Did you like the smell of this product?
It had a very clean smell.

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
The fit was comfortable, [it] didn’t feel like it was going to fall off. However it felt way too wet and cold. I felt like my face would be chapped when I removed it.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
It was easy to use, and it hydrated well, but I didn’t like the chapped wet feel.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 2 weeks?
Not much, but its so hot and dry outside right now, that any noticeable improvement would be slight. I guess since it felt no worse, it was good.

Would you purchase this product for $28? Why or why not?
No, I wasn’t $28 thrilled

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
I would like to hear someone elses views

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
4. Good. Glad I tried it

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Lynda Manser – Chelsea, Quebec

Tell us about the packaging and application. Was this product easy to use?
The packaging was very classy. The product itself not so. The face mask is difficult to apply. Both times I tried it I followed the directions by applying the cloth side to my face first then pulling of the plastic wrapping — impossible. The plastic wrapping is too heavy to stay on your face long enough to peel it back. I ended up having to pull the cloth off first, but this ripped the cloth both times. There was so much of the gel that I ended up rubbing it all over my legs and arms too. Though I suppose in that way you get more of your money’s worth from each mask.

Did you like the smell of this product?
Yes, the scent was lovely, delicate and not at all overbearing.

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
It stayed on, even when I moved around the house doing chores. That said, I wouldn’t want anyone to see me in it. The pictures make it look like a spa cloth mask, but in reality I looked like Leatherface from Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Scared the bejeebies out of my son when he saw me! I had to keep looking at the clock hoping no one knocked at the door before the time was up to take it off. Not the relaxing spa experience I’d hoped for.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
Mixed. The cloth is supposed to help your pores absorb the gel, but it was much more messy and cumbersome to apply than the value it may have added to the effectiveness. The gel smelled wonderful and felt invigorating, which was nice. But my skin felt essentially the same after use, perhaps only slightly more moisturized immediately after use.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 2 weeks?
No positive or negative differences.

Would you purchase this product for $28? Why or why not?
No. For this price I’d just buy a bottle of mask product and apply it directly without the mess of the cloth application.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
No, other than if you wanted to have a bit of fun trying something different and odd. But for the pleasure of using and for the effectiveness, definitely no.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the highest).
Nothing special.

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Julie Prater – Cumming, Georgia

Tell us about the packaging and application. Was this product easy to use?
This was easy to use. The instructions were easy to follow.

Did you like the smell of this product?
It was fine for me.

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
It made me sit and relax while I was wearing it.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
I feel like it did hydrate my skin, but i felt i couldn’t move around or it might fall off.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 2 weeks?
My skin does seem more hydrated.

Would you purchase this product for $28? Why or why not?
Not sure, it seems like I could find a cream or lotion that gives me the same results which I could use and rinse off.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Sure.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the highest).
4. Glad I tried it.

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Linda Goette – Laurel, Maryland

Tell us about the packaging and application. Was this product easy to use?
[The packaging] is beautiful and well constructed. [The] product was not easy to use, it was challenging to line everything up as needed.

Did you like the smell of this product?
It was mildly pleasant.

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
I did not like wearing this at all. I found it be be cumbersome.

What was your overall experience with this product?
This product did break me out.

Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
I do not have dry skin.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 2 weeks?
No, I have not.

Would you purchase this product for $28? Why or why not?
No, I would not. There are too many hydrating products that are so much easier to use.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
No.

Please rate this product from 1-5 based (with 5 being best).
2.

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Michele Kenaga – Norwalk, Connecticut

Tell us about the packaging and application?
[The] packaging was easy to use and [the] directions were clear.

Did you like the smell of this product?
Yes, [it had a] very fresh scent.

Were you comfortable while waiting to remove it?
You can’t readily go about your daily business, but if you’re are relaxing it’s comfortable and refreshing.

What was your overall experience with this product?
[It was] a very favorable experience.

Did you feel like this product hydrated your skin?
[My] skin did feel hydrated and fresh.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after two weeks?
[I] have only used it for one week, so I can’t say.

Would you purchase this product for $28? Why or why not?
I think $28 is reasonable for the quality of the product.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Yes.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
4.

{Test This} Brush on Block

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Brush On Block (retail value: $24.95), from Susan Posnick Cosmetics is a refillable brush with SPF30 sun protection powder.

The product is marketed as “effortless sun protection” superior to “messy, greasy” lotions, sticks and sprays.”

Made from natural minerals–titanium dioxide and zinc oxide–the powder will “sit on top of your skin and reflect the sun’s rays away from your body…unlike chemical sunscreens which work by being absorbed into the skin,” according to the manufacturer. The powder is “invisible” and can  be applied over and under makeup.

The brush is refillable, and its design creates “little risk of the product running or dripping into the eye area and makes it less likely to irritate the skin or clog pores,” the manufacturer claims.

Is this the best UV protection under the sun? 7 FOFs will put it to the test. Leave a comment below for a chance to win.

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(See all our past winners, here.) (See official rules, here.) Contest closes August 15, 2012 at midnight E.S.T.

The Olay Counter Revolution

On behalf of Olay, FOF invited Peri, one of our FOFriends, to switch from her department store skincare brand and try the Olay Pro-X anti-aging starter kit (retail value: $62). As part of its “28-Day Challenge,” Peri should see an improvement in her overall skin health in just four weeks, according to Olay. We’ve asked Peri to write a guest blog at the start of the challenge and another when it’s over.

Peri’s wrinkle analysis (left) and spot analysis (right).

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At 53, I never turn down an offer to try the next best thing to improve the elasticity and firmness of my skin.  Like many young women, I spent my teens and 20s soaking up the sun, but in my late 30s, little lines were becoming more and more apparent on my face.  At 38, I started caring for my skin in earnest and it took many years to reverse much of my sun damage.  Now, even though I don’t look my age, I see the signs of aging creeping up on me.

I just finished a six-week regimen using prestige products that cost $125. So when I heard that Olay Pro-X is challenging women to swap their favorite department store brands for its less expensive line, in order to address their skincare concerns, I decided it was worth trying.

I received the Olay Pro-X Anti-Aging Starter Protocol that includes “age repair lotion with SPF 30, wrinkle smoothing cream and eye restoration complex.” I also used a Pro-X Skin Analyzer Headband to examine my facial wrinkling and spots. It showed that I have a “well below average” number of spots and wrinkles, compared to others of my age and skin type. I’m pleased by the results, but I want to continue maintaining my skin to keep its youthful look. It will be interesting to see if the dermatologists and scientists who worked with Olay have together developed a quality product line that will show results in 28 days. It’s Olay vs. department store brands. I will report back then.

–Peri from Westchester, NY

P.S. – Let FOF know what anti-aging regimen you’re using and whether you’d like to take the Pro-X challenge, too. We’ll send the regimen to 10 lucky FOFs.

10 FOFs will win. (See all our past winners, here.) (See official rules, here.) Contest closes August 16th, 2012 at midnight E.S.T.

Are your mani/pedis sanitary?

Getting a mani pedi is meant to be relaxing, but are you being too relaxed about your spa hygiene?  We spoke to podiatrist Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, and dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner to get to the bottom of nail salon dangers–you’ll never believe what they had to say! Read below for their expert advice on how to stay protected while being pampered.

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Do your research.

“When you go to a nail salon, you should make sure it is licensed by the state,” says  Dr. Joshua Zeichner. “You want to make sure that you choose a salon that uses clean instruments [which] should be sterilized between customers. You need to ask the salon what method they use.”

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Avoid the “Wednesday special.”

“I warn my patients against the ‘Wednesday special,’ or that day where they have a mani/pedi for $20 or $30,” says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera. “There’s a lot more traffic through the salon on that day.  If you have the choice, go in the morning when things are a little bit cleaner, and the technicians aren’t tired.”

“If prices are too cheap, there may be a reason, and it may be too good to be true,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner. I personally recommend quality over a good deal. Do your research on the salon before going to one featured on a website deal.  It may be a quality salon, but you need to research it first.”

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BYOT! Bring your own tools.

“I really recommend bringing your own tools,” says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera. “Most places will have a little drawer where you can store them, and sometimes they’ll even have a kit they sell. This helps prevent transferring bacteria and molds and viruses from one person to another. If you want to take it a step further, you can bring the tools home and disinfect them yourself. The best way to do that is to use betadine, which is a brown solution you can get over the counter at any drugstore in the first aid aisle. It does a great job of killing viruses.”

Dr. Joshua Zeichner agrees and suggests you also bring your own nail polish. “This ensures that it a new, clean and high quality. Old nail polish, or a bottle filled with a no-name brand polish can be drying and can cause damage to the nails.”

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Don’t shave your legs!

“If you have any little cuts on you, or if you just shaved your legs a few hours ago or even that day, your skin is susceptible to infection,” warns Dr. Jacqueline Sutera. “You’re putting your open skin into water that may already contain bacteria, a virus or fungus from someone else. I’ve actually seen people get folliculitis, an infection around the pore where your hair comes out; and cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the skin.”

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Use whirlpools with caution.

“If you soak your feet in a whirlpool and it was not disinfected well, you’re putting yourself at risk for any germs that are living in it from the people before you,”  says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera.  She recommends spas that use a triple filtration system, like her go-to salon,  New York Diva Nail Salon.  “They filter the water that comes into and out of the basin, so that it doesn’t get recirculated somehow, in the drain and in the piping.”

“Whirlpool basins that are attached to chairs are difficult to clean. Bacteria can grow within the jets and filters. It can cause skin infections leading to non-healing boils on the legs,” adds Dr. Joshua Zeichner.

To prevent this from happening, Dr. Sutera suggests using a liner for the basin. Dr. Zeichner says, “It is best to soak your feet in a basin of water separate from the one attached to the chair.”

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Say no to these tools.

“[Turn down] foot files,” says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera. “There’s no great way to clean them. Dr. Sutera also advises again callus cutters. “They are actually illegal in the state of New York and New Jersey,” she says. “It’s not okay for them to be cutting at your skin with an instrument. There are no real regulations, and nail technicians don’t know how deep to go or if that callus isn’t really a callus, but some kind of wart, skin tumor or lesion.”

“Don’t let the manicurist cut your cuticles,” adds Dr. Zeichner. “Cuticles protect the nails from getting infections at the base of the nail where it grows out of the skin. Instead, have them push back skin.”

Furthermore, Dr. Sutera advises against going to nail salons to get ingrown toenails removed. “That’s a surgical procedure covered by insurance and needs to be done by a podiatrist,” she says.

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See a doctor if…

“The most common [diseases contracted in nail salons] are fungus, warts, and bacterial infections,” says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera. “I get people with ingrown toenails that [are infected] because the [nail technicians] were too aggressive. If you think that you have any of these infections, go see a doctor right away because some of these conditions can be contagious or get worse. In some cases, if you’re diabetic, if you have poor circulation, or other medical problems you can actually end up in the hospital with a bacterial infection that started as a little ingrown toenail.”

“Any non-healing wound, cut, or infection should be checked out by your dermatologist,” adds  Dr. Joshua Zeichner. He goes on to explain how you might spot these conditions, “Mycobacterial infections look like red, tender nodules on the legs. Athletes foot presents itself with scaling of the skin on the bottom of the feet or maceration of skin between the toes. Nail fungus can look like a white or yellow discoloration of the nail, along with nail thickening.”

For more information on nail salon safety regulations in your area, visit www.files.nailsmag.com.

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images: Shutterstock, Nails In The Key Of Life: A Mobile Nail Salon, eHow.com, The Daily Pennsylvanian

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{Tested} Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer


“Not to Prime is a Crime!” says the website of beauty company Napoleon Perdis…and we agree. But what’s the verdict on their Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer (retail value: $39). It’s made with Chamomile, Vitamin E and Yarrow extract—ingredients known to hydrate and smooth skin. It gives your makeup “a smoother landing,” your face a “flawless finish” and “helps makeup last even longer,” according to its manufacturer.

Are these claims…criminal? Or is this the prima primer?  8 FOFS took put it to the test. Read on for their reviews.

P.S. Want to be guaranteed a product to test? Join the FOF Beauty Club now!

**Quick take: 6 out of 8 testers would recommend this product to other FOFs.**

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Caroline Zimmerman – Fredericksburg, Virginia

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
The packaging was nice. The picture on the front was cute. It was easy to apply.

Did you like the smell of this product?
The chamomile in the product had a fresh, clean smell.

Did it go on smoothly?
Yes, it glided on.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
I did feel like the product hydrated my skin. I could use it alone without a moisturizer. I also liked the fact that it had natural chamomile extract and vitamin E.

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
I believe my makeup looked better. I would [like to use their] makeup to see how they work together. I liked the fact that it didn’t sweat off my skin like some moisturizers do in the summer.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
No.

Would you purchase this product for $39?
I believe I would. $39 seems like a lot, but I have a feeling it’s going to last a very long time since you don’t have to use much.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Yes. It gives your skin a nice smooth base to apply makeup to.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
5!

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Jane Giambrone – North Sarasota, NY

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
Simple, appealing packaging. The squeeze tube [made it] simple to get the desired amount out as needed.

Did you like the smell of this product?
The smell was unpleasant — [it] was a turnoff. [But] when the product set the smell [faded.]

Did it go on smoothly?
Yes.

What was your overall experience with this product?
I would not purchase this product if I had sampled first.

Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
The product was hydrating but it was not anything special.

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
This product is labeled as a primer. It was just a moisturizer. It did not do the job as a primer. I have used many primers and most of them have provided a base so that makeup looks better. This one did not.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
Not particularly. [It was] just another moisturizer.

Would you purchase this product for $39?
No.

Why or why not?
[It was] too expensive for the job it promised.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
No.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
2.

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Dorothy Borgese – Wantagh, NY

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
The packaging was [a] plain white box. The product was extremely easy to apply.

Did you like the smell of this product?
The smell was very [light and] not overpowering.

Did it go on smoothly?
The product went on extremely smoothly.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
The product left my face feeling hydrated but not greasy. The primer filed in the areas where I had scars from acne and chicken pox without clogging [pores].

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
My makeup worked well with this product. It enhanced [my] tinted foundation, making my face look naturally moist, not oily.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
Yes. I feel that my skin’s pores are not as large, and my acne scars are not as prominent.

Would you purchase this product for $39? Why or why not?
Yes, definitely. A little goes a long way.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Yes, definitely.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
4.

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Robin Mcgann – Martinez, CA

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
Nothing special about application. [It was] easy to apply and [it] spread well.

Did you like the smell of this product?
The smell was the best part [of this product]. It smelled clean and refreshing.

Did it go on smoothly?
Very smoothly. The spread-ability factor was a plus. It was sheer, lightweight and not sticky.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
The product hydrated my skin and did a mild job of smoothing [it].

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
Yes.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
No.

Would you purchase this product for $39? Why or why not?
This is expensive for a primer, but if you’ve tried other primers and found them too sticky or heavy, this one might be for you.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Yes.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
4.

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Rebecca Bodkin – Dayton, TN

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
[The] packaging [was] ok. [It was] easy to apply.

Did you like the smell of this product?
[It had a] nice neutral scent.

Did it go on smoothly?
Exceptionally so.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
Yes, it does a great job!

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
[With] the heat and humidity we have, nothing works!

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
I had a small breakout, but cannot definitively attribute it to this product.

Would you purchase this product for $39? Why or why not?
I would buy this product for use in [the] fall and winter.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Yes, [it] feels good on skin.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
4.

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Terri Sinclair – Oceanside, CA

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
The product has a creamy, gel-like, light texture to it. [It] was easy to apply, and afterwards my foundation went on easier.

Did you like the smell of this product?
I liked the fragrance, but if you’re sensitive to fragrance this may not be the product for you.

Did it go on smoothly?
I like how lightweight it is and it easily absorbs without leaving a greasy, oily feel.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
I did not feel that it made my foundation last any longer. My skin is acne prone, [and] it did cause me to break out. But to be honest I’ve yet to find any moisturizer, primer and foundation that doesn’t cause me to break out.

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
I do believe it helped make applying makeup easier. It did give my foundation and powder more of a natural, barely there look, but I did not notice a difference in the number of touch ups my face required, [so] I don’t think it made my foundation last longer.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
The only difference I noticed was my skin broke out but again. I usually don’t wear make up daily [but] I wore it more regularly while testing this product, which in itself may count for more breakouts.

Would you purchase this product for $39? Why or why not?
PLEASE FOLLOW UP WITH HER TO GET AN ANSWER

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
I think this product would work best for those with dry skin, small pores with no fine lines and/or wrinkles. If you have large pores, fine lines or wrinkles and/or are sensitive to fragrance, this may not be the product for you.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
3.5.

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Lynn Sharp Spears – Gaithersburg, MD

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
Yes.

Did you like the smell of this product?
It was not strong smelling.

Did it go on smoothly?
Yes.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
I don’t think it hydrated, but it did provide a smooth base for my mineral powder.

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
Yes! Definitely!

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
No differences.

Would you purchase this product for $39? Why or why not?
Would depend. My budget varies depending on what work I get month to month.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
Yes, if they are looking for a good base.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best).
I give it a 4.

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Sally England – Jacksonville, Florida

Tell us about the packaging and applicator. Was this product easy to apply?
The product was very easy to apply. The packaging was pretty typical.

Did you like the smell of this product?
The product had a very faint but pleasant smell.

Did it go on smoothly?
It went on very smoothly and I loved how cooling it was to my skin as I applied it.

What was your overall experience with this product? Did you feel like this product hydrated and smoothed your skin?
I did feel like the product hydrated and smoothed my skin and I enjoyed the fact that the results were very quick to see.

Did your makeup look better and last longer?
My makeup did look better and definitely lasted longer, even in the Florida heat and humidity.

Have you noticed any other differences in your skin after 6 weeks?
I have noticed that my skin feels very hydrated and a bit smoother since I started using the product.

Would you purchase this product for $39? Why or why not?
I feel like $39 is a bit steep for this product. I think around $20 to $25 would be more reasonable.

Would you recommend this product to other FOFs?
I would recommend this product to other FOFs who need a good moisturizing makeup primer.

Please rate this product from 1-5 (with 5 being the best)
4.

{Test This} Lisa Hoffman Fragrance Bracelet

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Fragrance bracelets (retail value: $65), launched late last year by Lisa Hoffman (wife of A-lister, Dustin Hoffman), are marketed as “a new way to wear perfume that puts you in control…on when you want and off just as easily.”

The bracelets come in five different color/scent combinations (Japanese Agarwood, Madagascar Orchid, Tuscan Fig, Tunisian Neroli and French Clary Sage). Each has a round charm that holds a fragrance bead. The beads can be replaced when the scent fades.

“As we age, we are more apt to develop sensitivities and allergies,” says Lisa. “I can’t tell you how many times women approach me and are so thankful they can actually wear fragrance without it touching their skin.”

We think this fragrance bracelet sounds scent-sational but is it up to snuff? 10 FOFs will put it to the test. Leave a comment below for a chance to win.

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(See all our past winners, here.) (See official rules, here.) Contest closes August 8, 2012 at midnight E.S.T.