{Tested} SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

LEAVE A COMMENT 2012 February 1

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Multiple studies (including this one by The Society for Investigative Dermatology) have determined that Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid, when combined, create an elixir that provides powerful protection against photo-aging and skin cancer. We conducted our own “study”–we sent C E Ferulic (retail value: $144), a serum by SkinCeuticals that contains this supposed power-blend, to real FOFs. We asked them to test the manufacturer’s claims that this product “neutralizes free radical damage and protects against oxidative stress – the factors that lead to premature aging, loss of elasticity, and hyperpigmentation.” Did the product stack up to the studies? Read on.

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Nola, Lake Forest, CA

Was this product easy to use?
Yes. The dropper dispenses the product nicely. You get one drop at a time making it easy to control the amount you use. Also, once applied to the skin, it is easy to lightly spread the product with your fingertips, to cover the area you want.

Did you notice any changes in your skin? If so, what changes did you notice?
Yes. I have normal skin,  pretty nice to begin with but after using this product for 30 days, my skin feels smoother and more supple than before. I noticed a change very early on. It looks clearer, and a bit radiant. I have a more even skin tone and I was pleasantly surprised that the few age spots on my cheeks are lighter and less visible now. Also, [since I used it] I have received a few compliments that I have nice skin.

{click here to read all the reviews!}

Do you think this product is a good way to prevent future sun damage?
Yes, especially when followed with a good sunscreen.

Would you continue using this product?
Yes. I live in a sunny climate and I know of a few people who have suffered from skin cancer and had to have surgery. Sun protection is very important to me. Not only will I continue using this product, I plan to look into additional products by this company, such as eye creams, etc.

Would you recommend it to other FOFs?
Absolutely.

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Kira Miftari, Aliso Viejo, CA

Was this product easy to use?
Very easy. My personal tip is to use a few drops all over the face and then connect the dots.

Did you notice any changes to your skin? If so, what changes?
It helped even my skin tone–I had some red spots from previous breakouts which are starting to fade out. The overall skin condition is just more balanced. Also, I got the proverbial Vitamin C kind of glow to my skin.

Do you think it would prevent sun damage?
I trust the science behind the combination of C, E and Ferulic Acid. In studies it has proven to prevent sun damage.

Would you continue using this product?
Definitely–I’ll especially use it during the summer under my sun screen, since, according to studies, it increases the strength of your sunscreen protection. This serum is pretty expensive, but it surprisingly lasts quite a long time, so I consider a good investment.

What is your overall feeling about this product?
I think it’s a gold standard of quality, preventative skin care. It’s a perfect addition to any skincare routine.

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Deborah Bates, Carmel, CA

Did you notice any changes in your skin?
After applying it as instructed, I found curling iron burn marks on my face slightly disappear overnight, then gradually decrease even more during the two week trial. I was pleasantly surprised, especially since I have tried many products just for this very problem. The serum improved the quality of my skin leaving a glow, which is something a stage four cancer patient like me, does not often experience.

Do you think this product is a good way to prevent future sun damage?
One of the side effects of being a chemotherapy patient is our skin becomes dry and hyper-pigmented. The serum helped my face combat the dryness, even during the chemo recovery process. A miracle!

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
I would definitely recommend this to all my fellow FabOverFifty members.

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Ruby C. Barton, Vancouver

Did you notice any changes in your skin?
I was very surprised by the results it gave me. The first few minutes after I rubbed it in, my skin felt moisturized, tightened and brightened, taking away the sallow look. After using this for just a couple days, it seemed to plump my wrinkles…Yeah! I still have lip lines, but even those are smoother.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
Yes.

Would you continue using this product?
Yes–it has done wonders for my skin.

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Holly Cunningham, El Dorado, AZ

Was this product easy to use?
Extremely easy to use, and very lightweight.  It spread across my skin well and was absorbed almost immediately. It was easy to incorporate into my morning routine, and didn’t interfere my moisturizer.

Did you notice any changes in your skin?
After using for a couple of weeks I noticed that my skin looked brighter and more youthful. Some of the older sun damage across my cheek and forehead areas was somewhat diminished as well. I really feel like my skin is firmer and tighter…in a good way! The larger pores across my nose and upper cheeks are visibly smaller.

Would you continue using this product?  Why or why not?
Yes–I feel that I am getting great results and it is extremely easy to use.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
Yes–I think it addresses several of the issues many of us have with our skin. It totally lived up to the claims.

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Mary Grace Gallagher, New York, NY

Was this product easy to use?
Yes. Simple application.

Did you notice any changes in your skin? What changes did you notice?
Yes, my skin felt softer and smoother.

Do you think this product is a good way to prevent future sun damage?
I believe so.

Would you continue using this product?  Why or why not?
I found this serum no different from any other serum that I’ve used religiously. I will continue using  my supply until it runs out, but most likely would not purchase it again due to it’s steep price.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
Only those with deep pockets!

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Donna Blair, Hollidaysburg, PA

How long have you tested this product?
1 month.

Was this product easy to use?
No, I felt the dropper was extremely awkward. It [dispensed] either too much or too little, and [the product] tended to run if not rubbed it immediately. if you tried to put it on your fingers, they absorbed it first.

Did you notice any changes to your skin?
No.

What changes did you notice?
None

Do you think it would prevent sun damage?
No, [there was] no SPF listed.

Would you continue using this product?
At $110+?  NO WAY,  I’ll stick to my Olay!

Would you recommend this to other FOFs?
No, too expensive, too few results.

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Martha Hildreth, Lynchburg, VA

Was this product easy to use?
Yes, although, I had some concerns because the product package stated that it needed to be used concurrently with their moisturizer and sunscreen.  I used the products I normally use, instead.

Did you notice any changes in your skin?
The only changes I noticed were a tighter, dryer feeling when I applied the product.  After the moisturizer was applied, I saw no difference.  There has been no change in my skin, other than the usual smoothness from my moisturizer.

Do you think this product is a good way to prevent future sun damage?
I don’t know.  I understood from the package that the SPF product and moisturizer needed to be used with it.

Would you continue using this product?  Why or why not?
I will continue, in hopes that my skin is so old that it needs additional time to see any improvement. I would also like to use the products the package stated I should use along with it, to see if that makes a difference, as the other products may not combine with their product accurately.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
I think others may have better luck with it than I did, and should try it, especially with the additional products from this line. Taking care of our faces, neck, etc, which make our first impression on others, is important.

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{Tested} Joey New York Quick Results Line Up

LEAVE A COMMENT 2012 January 25

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All the celebs are loco for coco…coconut water, that is. Most people drink it, but one company suggests we slather it on our faces for its anti-aging benefits. Coconut water is the active ingredient in Line Up (retail value: $36), a serum manufactured by Joey New York. According to the company, it makes “lines and wrinkles virtually disappear,” and “fills in lines and then plumps them up, creating a more youthful and awake appearance almost immediately.” We sent Line Up to our FOF testers, to find out– what’s the bottom line on this anti-ager?

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How long did you use this product?
For 45 days

Were the directions easy to follow?
Yes.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
My lines appeared to go away and I noticed a difference in the look of my skin. However the results were not worth how the product felt–like a thin layer of Elmer’s glue spread over my face. By mid morning, my face would start to flake. The product came off in what looked like peeling skin.

.{Click here to read all of the reviews!}

What changes did you notice in your skin?
At first my skin was smooth and most of my lines seemed to disappear. My makeup looked fantastic after using this product for most of the morning. However, the product flaked off by lunch time and it looked like I had small cracks in my skin similar to dry arid desert ground.

Would you use it again?
No, I would not. My face needs to be able to move when I talk. I prefer my skin to feel supple.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
No, I would not. It might be a good product for a photo op that only lasted less than 2 hours.

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How long did you use this product?
More than 6 weeks and I’m still using it.

Were the directions easy to follow?
Yes, it was very simple to apply under makeup each morning.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
It did tighten my skin and made it feel firmer, so my fine lines were less noticeable under makeup.

What changes did you notice in your skin?
It made my lines less prominent but no real long term changes.

Would you use it again?
Yes, I continue to use it every morning.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
Yes, if they want to have fewer fine lines and feel like your skin is younger and firmer, they should give this product a try.
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How long did you use this product?
I used this product for close to 2 months.

Were the directions easy to follow?
The directions were easy to follow.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
At first I felt a tightening on my skin which was exciting since it seemed to ‘lift’ my face. However, after a period of time that sensation seemed to disappear. I’m not sure if my skin just got used to it.

What changes did you notice in your skin?
My skin was smooth after.

What changes did you notice in your skin?
I probably wouldn’t use this again. There are other products that nourish my skin better than this.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
I would tell any FOF member to give it a try. It causes no harm and everyone’s skin is different.

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How long did you use this product?
2 months.

Were the directions easy to follow?
Yes.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
It made my skin feel tighter at the time of application, but did not notice a lot of difference overall in my skin.

What changes did you notice in your skin?
Tightness at time of application only, but it wasn’t long term.

Would you use it again?
I would try it again.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
Yes.

What was your overall experience with the product?
Positive.

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How long did you use this product?
3 weeks.

Were the directions easy to follow?
Yes.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
It had some positive tightening effect.

What changes did you notice in your skin?
No lasting effects. The product did tighten my skin but left white traces and the fragrance was unpleasant.

Would you use it again?
No.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
No.

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How long did you use this product?
I was not very consistent about using this product because I lost my job, so I don’t fix up as much now. But when I do go out I used it.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
This product did work for me. I especially like it over my face cream before I put on my makeup. It tightens somewhat like a mask would.

Would you use it again?
Definitely.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
Yes.

What was your overall experience with the product?
I love it–it makes my skin smoother and my makeup go on streakless.

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How long did you use this product?
I used it religiously for the last 4 weeks.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
I have oily skin and perspire due to hot flashes. While it felt great the first few hours, it started to peel off like dead skin about midday.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
It may work better on those who don’t have skin like mine.

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How long did you use this product?
I am still using it although I haven’t used it daily.

Were the directions easy to follow?
Yes.

Did this product work for you? Did you notice a difference in your skin?
I do notice a difference on my face when I use it. When I apply it, it feels a bit like watered down glue. I keep a calm, still face until it dries. The fine lines on my face almost disappear. I have a lot of lines on my forehead and it makes a big difference in how visible they are. I didn’t see any change in the deeper wrinkles.

Would you use it again?
I would use it again if it is not too expensive.

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
I recommend it to any FOF who has fine lines they would like to hide

{Test This} Made From Earth Face Firming Serum

LEAVE A COMMENT 2012 January 24

Face it–most products that deliver serious anti-aging results, also are loaded with serious chemicals and/or ingredients that are harmful to the earth.
Not the Vitamin Enhanced Firming Face Serum (retail value: $39.99)  from indie beauty brand, Made From Earth. In lieu of harsh chemicals, Made From Earth uses ingredients from certified organic farms across the U.S.
This face serum contains a blend of meadowfoam (touted for its binding qualities and non-greasy feeling), DMAE (a much-buzzed about skin-firming agent), vitamins A, B, C and E, and alpha lipoic acid. According to its manufacturers, the product “immediately tightens and firms the skin” and “eventually improves your skins elasticity” all while it “counteracts dryness.”
We want you to tell us: Is it a natural wonder… or a natural disaster?

10 women will test this product. Click here to find out more about it, and then leave a comment below to enter to test it.

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(By entering this contest you are agreeing to test and submit a written review of this product to FabOverFifty and to send a photo of yourself to accompany the published story. See all our past winners. See official rules. Participants will be chosen at random from all those who leave a comment. Contest closes February 2, 2012.)

Read past product reviews.

{Product Review} Brazilian Peel

LEAVE A COMMENT 2012 January 18

Remember the episode of Sex and the City where Samantha gets an impulse peel, her doctor leaves it on too long, and she ends up looking like a boiled lobster? According to reps at Advance Home Actives, this can’t happen with Brazilian Peel, an at-home, medical-strength glycolic peel that is designed to “turn itself off.” The treatment works just like a doctor’s office peel, by removing the upper layer of dead skin cells to reveal fresh new skin below–in effect, “brightening,” “tightening” and “smoothing” your skin, according to its manufacturer.

We sent Brazilian Peel to real FOFs to test. So, what’s the peel with this product? Read on…

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How often did you use the Brazilian Peel and how long did you leave it on?
I used it once a week for 10-12 minutes.

Were the directions easy to follow?
Extremely easy.

Was the applicator easy to use, or do you think it could be improved?
Application process [was] very easy and did not waste any product.  That was a big plus.

{click here to read all the reviews!}

Did you notice any burning or redness after or during the use of this product?
No burning, but after application [there was] slight pinkness lasting about 3 hours.

How did the product make your skin look and feel after the first use?
Smoother, smaller pores and radiant.

What was your skin like before you used the product?
Very dry with some tiny areas of flaking on forehead and the sides of my nose.

What was your overall experience with this product?
Very good.  I liked the easy application, its nearly non-existent aroma and that the amount dispensed covered my face, neck, and decollete nicely. I just didn’t see my fine lines minimized.  It worked more like a nice scrub.

Do you think the Brazilian Peel is worth $78?
No. It needs a little extra strength. The results were minimal after 4 weeks.

Would you use this product again?
For special occasions because it gave me a slight glow. I’d also use this every 2 to 3 weeks. But to use it weekly, as recommended, would be nearly $1,000 a year. Looking at it that way, it isn’t worth it.
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How often did you use the Brazilian Peel and how long did you leave it on?
I used it once a week for four weeks and left it on for the recommended time.

Were the directions easy to follow? Extremely easy.

Did you notice any burning or redness after or during the use of this product?
None at all.

How did the product make your skin look and feel after the first use?
I noticed a definite difference after the first use.  My skin seemed clearer and softer.

What was your skin like before you used the product?
My skin was starting to get dry due to the winter weather.

What was your overall experience with this product?
Positive though not life-altering!

Do you think the Brazilian Peel is worth $78?
For four weeks worth, it might be.

Would you recommend this product to your friends?
Possibly.

Would you use this product again?
I wouldn’t seek it out, because the results really weren’t that different from the Obagi products that I use on a daily basis.  But I would definitely use it if it was 1) cheaper, or 2) given to me.

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How often did you use the Brazilian Peel and how long did you leave it on?
Once a week, for four weeks. I can honestly say that I looked forward to Sundays, when I could use it again. That’s how much I loved it.

Were the directions easy to follow?
Yep, and I get impatient with instructions.

How did you feel about the application process?
Was the applicator easy to use, or do you think it could be improved? It felt good. Warm and oozy.  I had a little trouble removing the cap but persevered. It was worth the effort.

Did you notice any burning or redness after or during the use of this product?
There was a teeny bit of sensation. Nothing uncomfortable.

How did the product make your skin look and feel after the first use?
Awesome! I don’t want to put anything on my skin afterwards.

Do you think the Brazilian Peel is worth $78?
It’s a bit high for me now but probably worth it.

Would you recommend this product to your friends?
Yes.

Would you use this product again? Yes.

What was your overall experience with this product?
Let’s put it this way. The very first time I used it my (estranged) husband said to me: ‘Your skin is looking really good….is there something you’re doing to it that I should be doing?’ That’s the ultimate compliment.

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How often did you use the Brazilian Peel and how long did you leave it on?
Once a week for 10 minutes.

Were the directions easy to follow? Yes.
How did you feel about the application process? Was the applicator easy to use, or do you think it could be improved?
I had no problems at all!

Did you notice any burning or redness after or during the use of this product?
Not at all.

How did the product make your skin look and feel after the first use?
After the first use [there was] little change. By the fourth use…amazing!

What was your skin like before you used the product?
Dry–aging skin.

Do you think the Brazilian Peel is worth $78?
Yes!

Would you recommend this product to your friends?
Definitely!

Would you use this product again?
I just bought one at Sephora and I bought their acne one for my daughter–I am hooked!

What was your overall experience with this product?
Very effective–I got many compliments on my skin after the 4th use!

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How often did you use the Brazilian Peel and how long did you leave it on?
I used the product, once a week for four weeks.

Were the directions easy to follow? Yes.

How did you feel about the application process? Was the applicator easy to use, or do you think it could be improved?
The applicator was easy to use–I don’t feel that it could be improved.

Did you notice any burning or redness after or during the use of this product?
I didn’t have any redness or burning during or after the application.

How did the product make your skin look and feel after the first use?
After the first use, my face was brighter and smoother, however, the next day, I did have a slight breakout.

Have you ever had a professional peel? If so, how do you think this product compared?
This was not as strong as a professional peel. I had no peeling or redness like with the professional peel, but, I like the way my face felt after each use.

Do you think the Brazilian Peel is worth $78?
For four, I would say yes.

Would you recommend this product to your friends?
Yes.

Would you use this product again?
Yes.

What was your overall experience with this product?
Very good–my face felt smoother, looked brighter and I did notice the reduction of fine lines.

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How often did you use the Brazilian Peel and how long did you leave it on?
I used it once a week and left it on the full 10 minutes.

Were the directions easy to follow?
Yes.

Was the applicator easy to use, or do you think it could be improved?
I liked the application process. I loved how it warmed in my hand.

Did you notice any burning or redness after or during the use of this product?
The first time I used the peel my skin felt like I had a mild sunburn for about a day or so. It didn’t look red, just felt that way.

How did the product make your skin look and feel after the first use?
After only one use my skin looked fabulous–the effect on my neck area was amazing! I had started to be really bothered by that first horizontal line that runs across the middle of your neck and afterwards I felt like it had almost disappeared! Also a dark spot I used to have was gone!

What was your skin like before you used the product?
My skin is in good condition but has always been dry.

What was your skin like before you used the product?
No, I have not had a professional peel.

Do you think the Brazilian Peel is worth $78?
Yes, absolutely, without a doubt!

Would you recommend this product to your friends?
Yes 100%!

Would you use this product again?
Yes, it will be part of my skin care routine!

What was your overall experience with this product?
I loved, loved it!! I have used many over the counter products and have never seen such a difference especially after only one use. If they are looking for sales people, I would work for the company. I loved it that much!

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from →  ,

{Test This} Blinc mascara

LEAVE A COMMENT 2012 January 17

Go ahead, watch The Notebook or go for a jog while wearing Blinc mascara…because, its manufacturer promises, “it cannot run, smudge, clump, or flake…even if you rub your eyes, cry or sweat.”

How is that possible? Unlike other mascaras that simply coat your lashes, Blinc mascara [retail value: $25] forms tiny water resistant “tubes” around them. Then, when you want to take it off, no makeup remover is required; just use water and apply pressure, this magic combo will make “the tubes will effortlessly slide off your lashes into your hand,” say the marketing reps at Blinc.

Click here to find out more about this product, and then leave a comment below to enter to test them.

5 women will test this product.

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(By entering this contest you are agreeing to test and submit a written review of this product to FabOverFifty and send a photo of yourself to accompany the published story. See all our past winners. See official rules. Participants will be chosen at random from all those who leave a comment. Contest closes January 25th, 2012.)

Read past product reviews.

from →  ,

{Tested} Vincent Longo “Diamond” Body Spray {Test This} Beecology

LEAVE A COMMENT 2012 January 3

A diamond is a girl’s best friend…but is ‘Diamond’ Body Spray by Vincent Longo (retail: $35 on Soft Surroundings) an FOFriendly beauty product? According to Vincent Longo marketing materials, the spray “adds glamour to any look” by “illuminating body skin with instant sparkling highlights.” Is this shimmer a winner or was it no more than a glimmer of hope for our FOF beauty testers?

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Did this product work for you?
I love this product–easy to use, very light and airy. It makes me want to wear a v-neck sweater and show off!

Did you like the effect it had on your skin?
It gave my decolletage a little extra sparkle and made it not so naked looking. It feels like a powder, not sticky.

{click here to read all the reviews!}

Would you use this product again?
I am very happy with the product and would use it again. I recently saw it for sale in a Soft Surroundings catalog and was delighted I had already tested it! I like the silver best, it goes with my brunette hair and skin tone.

Would you recommend it to other FOFs?
I’d recommend it to everybody.

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Did this product work for you?
Yes.

Did you like the effect it had on your skin?
It sparkled–but I didn’t seen any difference in the quality of my skin other than that.

What could make this product better?
Better delivery design–the directions say to shake the bottle but when you do, the glittery sparkle goes all over the place.

Would you use this product again?
I would use it again, but, it isn’t something you wear everyday. It is definitely a dress up and sparkle item.

Would you recommend it to other FOFs?
I’d recommend it to FOFs, but honestly, it seems more suited for younger, smoother skin.

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Did this product work for you?
I am not a ‘sparkly’ person. I used it when I went out to dinner–my friends noticed it on my chest and giggled. I asked why [they laughed] and they said ‘it was just not me.’

Did you like the effect it had on your skin?
Not really.

What could make this product better?
I don’t wear makeup, so this was just over the top.

Would you use this product again?
No.

Would you recommend it to other FOFs?
If they like to sparkle and get noticed, then yes.

What was your overall experience with the product?
I am a little too simple for a product like this.

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Did this product work for you?
Yes.

Did you like the effect it had on your skin?
Nice glow on my skin.

Would you use this product again?
Yes. I would also give as gifts.

Would you recommend it to other FOFs?
Yes.

What was your overall experience with the product?
To me, it is a product for special occasions.

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Did this product work for you?
It worked as stated and gives a nice sheen to the skin. It did not wear off or stick to clothing.

Did you like the effect it had on your skin?
It looked festive and gleaming.

What could make this product better?
I liked it the way it was. I really liked the container–very retro-Hollywood-looking on my dressing table.

Would you use it again?
I would use for a special night out. I just don’t have too many of those!

Would you recommend it to other FOF members?
Yes–it is a fun and glamorous product.

What was your overall experience with the product?
Nice to look at, fun to use, very effective.

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Did this product work for you?
I really loved using this body spray! The glow it gives adds to a special night out.

What could make this product better?
I would add a small brush for even coverage.

Would you use it again?
I will use this product every chance I get, and will continue to tell everyone about it.

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Did this product work for you?
It gave my skin a sparkly look that was pretty. It comes in a beautiful bottle that I love and will keep.

What could make this product better?
A lower price point. I’m assuming there are other products that come in tubes [less expensive packaging to produce] that give the same for a lower cost.

Would you use this product again?
No. It’s out of my price range.

Would you recommend it to other FOFs?
It is a lovely product but the women in my circle would not be able to afford this product.

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By entering this contest you are agreeing to test and submit a written review of this product to FabOverFifty and send a photo of yourself to accompany the published story.

(See all our past winners. See official rules. Participants will be chosen at random from all those who leave a comment. Contest closes January 12, 2012.)

{Beauty Testing} Clientele Lavender Lift Oil-Control Powder

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 December 20

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Clientele Skincare, founded by award-winning scientist Dr. Pat Riley, was once available only through dermatologists’ offices. Now, more than thirty years since the company launched its first product, the line is available to everyone through to everyone through thir website. Four FOFs put Clientele’s Lavender Lift Oil-Control Face Powder to the test. The company claims this oil-free, ultra-sheer powder will absorb excess oil, make pores visibly smaller and keep makeup fresh without a dry or cakey look. Did this powder perform? Read on…

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How long did you use this product?
Several weeks.

Please describe your experience with this product.
The clientele powder was heavier than my usual makeup, plus I had to wear my makeup just a bit heavier to cover up the paler shade of the clientele powder. The clientele powder smelled great but really didn’t work for me.

{click here to read all the reviews!}

What could make this product better?
When I used the applicator sponge that came with the product, it went on too heavy for me. I then used an application brush and that was better.

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Were the directions given to you clear?
Yes.

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
It exceeded them.

Would you use this product again?
Yes!

Please describe your experience with this product.
Except for the messiness, I actually replaced the finishing powder I normally use from Bare Minerals with this product because it helps my makeup stay on longer and really delivered on the hydration promise.

What could make this product better?
There is no cover on top of the holes when you shake the product out so it’s quite messy. A lock/unlock/shake system, a la Bare Minerals products, would serve this product well.

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Were the directions given to you clear and understandable?
Yes.

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
It was about what I expected.

Please describe your experience with this product.
I used the product for several weeks in lieu of other face powders I normally use. It gave me a smooth finish, seemed to handle the oil, but I can’t say that it lasted any longer than many of the other products on the market. I think the lavender color made me look a little washed out and I found myself applying more bronzer and blush to compensate.

Would you use this product again?
I wouldn’t buy this product. Not because I didn’t like it, but because it didn’t do anything special for me that would make me want to spend the money.

What could make this product better?
The thin little powder puff [applicator] seemed cheap. I would think either a nice puff or a brush, might make it seem more upscale.

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Please describe your experience with this product. Overall, my experience was excellent. The product kept my shine to a minimum and was absolutely weightless. I was waiting for the Virginia heat and humidity to arrive so I could report how the product worked under ‘steamy’ conditions, but we actually had a mild year.

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Leave a comment below to be entered for a chance to test Revitalash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner ($98). 6 women will receive this product to test.

By entering this contest you are agreeing to test and submit a written review of this product to FabOverFifty and send a photo of yourself to accompany the published story.

(See all our past winners. See official rules. Participants will be chosen at random from all those who leave a comment. Contest closes December 27, 2011.)

{Beauty Testing} Lisa Hoffman’s Japanese Agarwood Fragrance Duo

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 December 13

.Japanese Agarwood was once “used as the centerpiece in Kōdō incense ceremonies to [help participants] achieve a higher level of consciousness and inner peace,” according to the Lisa Hoffman Beauty website. Lisa Hoffman (wife of actor Dustin Hoffman) uses Japanese Agarwood as the centerpiece for one of her 2-vial collection (retail value: $52)  which includes morning and evening scents. The Japanese Agarwood essence is intensified with bergamot and spiced ginger, creating a scent the website says, “inspire(s) feelings of clarity and warmth.” What did our FOF testers think? Did this perfume make them feel all warm and fuzzy inside?

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Neither the scent for day or evening appealed to me. I used the daytime and evening alone and then decided to mix them, but they gave me a slight headache. It was very strong. The scent is not for me. I definitely would not wear it again.

However, the packaging was unique, practical and eye catching. The satchel is great for a purse or even a pocket.

{click here to read all the reviews!}

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I usually don’t wear perfume because it gives me a headache, but this didn’t. The day fragrance was light, but warm with a rich undertone. The night fragrance was a deeper, more sensuous version of the day scent, which I really liked.

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I can’t put my finger on it, but there is something about the Japanese Agarwood fragrances that lift my spirit. It’s so crisp and fresh, when I smelled this, I was sent reeling back to the 70s when I was a wild, carefree, hitchhiking young woman. Those were the days I wore handkerchief halter tops and bell-bottom blue jeans with frayed hems and sensuality was the norm! I wear it every day and night.

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It came in such a beautiful package and I love the case. I tried both the morning and evening versions as well as mixing them together. It is a little bit heavy for my taste. I prefer something a little lighter and sweeter smelling.

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I could not stand it! Both the day and night fragrances [made me] smell like an old man. I asked others what they thought. My sister said it smelled like my dad who has been dead 10+ years and wore too much Polo aftershave.

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Leave a comment below to be entered for a chance to test Cosmedix Cell ID Intensive Defense ($100). 5 women will receive this product to test.

By entering this contest you are agreeing to test and submit a written review of this product to FabOverFifty and send a photo of yourself to accompany the published story.

(See all our past winners. See official rules. Participants will be chosen at random from all those who leave a comment. Contest closes December 21, 2011.)

{Product Testing} Peptide Wrinkle Concealer Duo Wand by Clientele

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 November 21

Clientele, claims that its Peptide Wrinkle Concealer Duo Wand (retail value: $30) will “lubricate away crow’s feet,” “protect the delicate tissue around your eyes,” “fight the appearance of wrinkles,” and, if that’s not enough, “It’s a wonderful base to hold eyeshadow fresh all day.” Each stick comes in two shades, neutral and tan, and contains a “special peptide” promising to “erase your age” without overdrying skin. But what did our FOF testers think?

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Were the directions given to you clear and understandable?
The directions were clear and understandable but not complete. The product was thick and sticky and I felt like I had to pull my skin too much to apply it.

How quickly did you see results?
After about 3 days of use, I stopped using it on my eyelids and instead, just used it over my outer eye creases. The cream filled in the creases immediately.

{click here to read all the reviews!}

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
I used the product for 3 weeks. I don’t believe it actually improved my skin, it just temporarily filled in the wrinkles.

Would you use this product again?
No.

What could make this product better?
I’m not sure. It was just a temporary cover-up and I would like to see something that would help to soften lines and wrinkles more permanently.

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Were the directions given to you clear and understandable?
The directions were understandable, and the concealer was very easy to use.

How quickly did you see results?
I used the concealer now for two weeks and noticed great coverage immediately.

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
This product exceeded my expectations. I love using it on my eyelids [as a primer] and it makes the eyeshadow I apply in the morning last until evening.

Would you use this product again?
I would definitely use this product again.

What could make this product better?
I have no improvements. It works just as it is.

What was your overall experience with this product?
Positive. My crow’s feet are diminishing and unlike other concealers I’ve tried, it does not give me a white-eye effect. I do not feel it is greasy or too heavy. I am very pleased with the results and will definitely purchase and continue to use it in the future.

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Were the directions given to you clear and understandable?
Yes.

How quickly did you see results?
Immediately.

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
In some ways, yes, others, no. It was a little greasy and hard to blend in, almost the consistency of sunscreen. At first I thought even the neutral shade went on too light but after it settled in (and I blotted the greasiness), I noticed that it gave very good coverage to my seriously dark circles.

Would you use this product again?
Possibly, if they made some changes to the ingredients.

What could make this product better?
Perhaps they could use an emollient other than petroleum so it would be less greasy.

Please describe your experience with this product.
Besides that it was greasy and hard to rub in, I was pleased with the results and excited that I might have found an even better concealer than the expensive one I currently use. But, unfortunately, after a few days, I began to develop psoriasis on my eyelids (an off-and-on problem, that I haven’t experienced in many years). It seems that putting petroleum products on my eyelids has caused psoriasis flare-ups. I didn’t check the ingredients prior to using the Clientele product, but after the flare-up, I checked and, sure enough, discovered that it was petroleum based. Once I stopped using it, the psoriasis quickly disappeared. If this company would switch their formula to an organic emollient base, such as beeswax or plant oils, I think this product would be a winner! But in the meantime, I will stay away from it because of the reaction my skin had.

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Were the directions given to you clear and understandable?
I was initially confused by the instructions. “Apply under the eye. When absorbed, used the handy sponge applicator or wand to gently pat concealer under eyes.” This lead me to believe there were two products; the one that I apply under the eye and the concealer to pat on after the first was absorbed. Once I asked and got that straightened out, I was okay.

How quickly did you see results?
I never did see it “lubricate away crow’s feet.” However, it did give me a nice unblemished base under my eye to work from.

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
The product was not what I expected. It was too thick and sticky for my skin type. However, I didn’t expect it to absorb into my skin as much as it did, so it ended up okay. It was also very white, and made me look a bit scary until I applied some foundation.

Would you use this product again?
I would not go out and purchase this, but I will most likely finish using what I have.

What could make this product better?
A lighter texture and consistency.

Please describe your experience with this product.
This product reminded me of the ‘pancake makeup’ that actors wear. I felt like I was preparing for the stage rather than my daily life. I am sure the product is wonderful for the right skin type, but the area under my eyes is thin-skinned, and this was simply too dense. The consistency made it hard to get just the right amount on my eyes and I needed to spend a lot of time blending it.
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Were the directions clear and understandable?
Yes.

How quickly did I see results?
I did not notice any results.

Did the product meet or exceed my expectations?
It neither met or exceeded my expectations.

Would I use it again?
No, I would not.

What could make it better?
If it was creamier so that it went on more smoothly. Also, I wish it did not get lighter in color as the day went on.

What was your overall experience with this product?
I found this product hard to use. It was quite firm and was hard to apply. When I tried to dab it on my skin with the applicator, I felt like it was pulling. I tried patting it on with my finger and this worked slightly better, but I found that it was going on much too thick.

Also, it kept getting lighter in color as the day went on. A couple of hours after I applied it, I looked like I had pale circles under my eyes. As an eyeshadow base, it was okay.

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Were the directions given to you clear and understandable?
I felt the directions supplied were very confusing. They contained directions for two different products–wrinkle treatment and firming eye cream. After reading it several times, I wasn’t quite sure how to use it, or what to expect. The fact that the cream had two compartments with what seems to be the same product was also confusing.

How quickly did you see results?
I do not feel that there were any lasting effects with this product.

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
No.

Would you use this product again?
Probably not.

What could make this product better?
Better directions and a more spreadable consistency. I was not able to easily blend it into my skin.

Please describe your experience with this product.
The product did not blend very well on my skin. Once I was able to blend it using a combination of my finger and the sponge provided, it did provide some coverage of fine lines and brightening under my eye. However, I can’t say there has been any permanent reduction in fine lines and crow’s feet.

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Were the directions given to you clear and understandable?
No. Visually, I couldn’t tell the difference between the two compartments and there was no labeling on the box. Of course, I eventually figured it out, but for $30, I’d hope for more clear instructions.

How quickly did you see results?
I really didn’t see a difference at all.

Did the product meet or exceed your expectations?
I had hoped this 2-in-1 product would be better than others I have used, but it wasn’t.

Would you use this product again?
I don’t think I would purchase this product and prefer what I was already using.

What could make this product better?
This product would be a lot more user-friendly if the compartments were labeled!

Please describe your experience with this product.
I really did want to love this…

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Leave a comment below to be entered for a chance to test Strivectin-TL Tightening Neck Cream ($89).  Five women will receive this product to test.

By entering this contest you are agreeing to test and submit a written review of this product to FabOverFifty and send a photo of yourself to accompany the published story.

(See all our past winners. See official rules. Participants will be chosen at random from all those who leave a comment. Contest closes December 1, 2011.)

{Giveaway} Instant Breast Lifts by Bring It Up

LEAVE A COMMENT 2011 October 11

20 FOFs will get to test Instant Breast Lifts by Bring It Up. To enter, answer in the comments below: Has your cup size changed over the years?

Thank you for entering. This contest is now closed.


Newton said “what goes up, must come down,” and unfortunately, our FOF breasts are certainly no exception.

However, Denise Cooper, the genius behind Bring It Up Instant Breast Lifts won’t give in to gravity. A Los Angeles-based luxury salon owner, Denise listened to her female clients complain about their own sagging breasts for over twenty years — and was downright tired of it.

In 2001 she invented her Instant Breast Lifts, crescent-moon shaped, transparent, waterproof and hypoallergenic adhesives that work by lifting the breasts from the top.

“[The] product is a true beauty breakthrough,” says Denise. “Our ‘lift from the top’ method provides full support, without a bra.”

Since Denise introduced the product, they’ve been featured everywhere from Glamour and The Rachael Ray Show to that “best things” bible, O magazine. In 2009 Denise was awarded a U.S. patent for Bring It Up’s “method of lifting and supporting human breast tissue.”

The company claims the lifters can raise breasts up to six inches. Could it be true? Twenty FOFs will get to put this product to the test, then report back.

Enter to test Instant Breast Lifts by Bring It Up. 20 FOFs will win. To enter, answer in the comments below: Has your cup size changed over the years?

Can’t wait to find out if you’ve won? Need this product ASAP!? Bring it Up is offering a special discount to FOFs on Instant Breast Lifts and their other beauty fixers, this month only. Enter code FAB50 at checkout to receive $10 off your purchase of $25 or more.

(See all our past winners. See official rules. One winner is chosen at random from all those commenters who answer the question. Contest closes October 18, 2011.)