Wednesday, 09 September 2009 | Author: Catherine Horgan | 
Overall, a fantastic showcase of products for the month of August. Thanks goes out to the team of msf testers! Look for a new review layout with team members in the months to come!
Anastasia: Line Erasing Serum
What a nice serum - very moisturizing. After 4 weeks of use, I have noticed some great results. Granted, I don't look 25 again. I used it on my problem areas (forehead, eye area) and definitely noticed a smoothness that did not exist before. It goes on smoothly, absorbs quickly and has no fragrance smell. A little goes a long way. An A.
Lancome: Virtuose Mascara
While this mascara is supposed to curl your lashes, I found it to be a bit weighty, causing the opposite effect. It also smudged under my eyes. You know how picky I am when it comes to mascara. This didn't pass the test. C
mdskincare: Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel
Great product. It's simple and fast to use — little prep is needed with the pre-moistened pads. I did see results in the size of my pores and general condition and texture of my skin. Step 1 definitely has a bit of a burn when first applied, but quickly goes away with step 2. My skin was well moisturized after step 2, but I did not feel oily and it was soothing. I had glowing, radiant skin in about 2 weeks. My brown spots seem to have faded slightly. Two of my friends even asked me what I was doing with my skin after about 2 weeks of use. Another A.
Dr. DENESE NEW YORK: Glow Younger Self Tanner, SPF 30 Defense Day Cream, Firming Facial Light Resurfacing Peel
Nice to meet you Dr. Denese! I have to say, I was blown away with these three products. Advancements in skin care were ever present, which leads me to believe all of Dr. Denese's products must be awesome! A Clear Self Tanner ... with peptides? Yes. It feels like a serum going on, smooth and silky. The processing smell isn't too bad at the end of the day, but it's present. The color is realistic and gradual. As with all self tanners, be careful around your feet. For the first time, I used this self tanner on my face. It provided just a hint of color, which was perfect. The only draw back to it being clear is that you can't see where you have applied the product — can be tricky if you are a newby to self tanners. This gets a B! The Day Cream rocks. I love that the tinted moisturizer contains zinc oxide ... makes me all giddy inside knowing that I am multi-tasking in one product. The formula is matte, so it's excellent for summer. Oily skin folks, you can probably use this all year long. It was a bit drying for me, so I had to mix in a moisturizer. B+! The Resurfacing Peel is amazing. Not only does it smell incredible (and I love the orange color), it provides lasting results. I have become a bit obsessed with this product ... counting the days to the next application. It makes your skin super smooth, radiant and firm. An A.
The Hook-up: Handbag hook
You may have already seen the spotlight on this seriously convenient product. This accessory clips to your handbag and makes it a breeze to keep your handbag off of any dirty surface. The fashionable heart, plated in gold or platinum, clips to your purse strap and twists open to hook your purse to any table or door (or chair, stroller, grocery cart, etc.). It’s fantastic! A.
Hudson Jeans: Triangle Pocket Stretch Boot Cut
I am usually not one to wear a thinner stretch material jean. However, in the case of Hudson, I made an exception. The wash is perfect, the stitching, even better. And guess what? The stretch provides movement without giving out after a few wears. Boot cut and flare jeans are the only styles I can wear, based on my body type, so I was thrilled to find a keeper! As with most thin stretch denim, buy a size down from your normal jean size. B+.
Andrea's Beau: Laurel Jacquard double adjustable soft headband
This hair accessory line also got its own spotlight. After all, some days we need a little inspiration. And doing something different, and stylish, is just what the doctor ordered. I love this headband. The double band makes it an instant enhancement! It adjusts easily (for those occasions when your daughter asks to borrow it). And speaking of ... the little girls' hair accessories will knock your socks off! Of course, an A.
Merz Pharmeceuticals: Mederma Cream Plus SPF 30
While I am still in the midst of testing this product, I just have to rave about its effectiveness on my newest scar. I am so used to applying this product to two of my scars 3x a day that the other day it dawned on me ... I can't find my biopsy scar anymore. It hit me ... brilliant! Thank you Merz Pharmeceuticals for developing an incredible product. While I have a ways to go with my oldest scar, it has definitely lightened in color. This product puts so many smiles on people's faces. For anyone who has a scar, you need this product. Give it time, and you, too, will be pleased as punch. An A, for sure!
OBAGI Medical: ELASTIderm Eye Cream
A great skin care company — I can attest to that, as I am currently reviewing the Condition & Enhance line. This eye cream contains Bi-mineral complex (zinc and copper) to help restore elasticity and build collagen, Malonic Acid to help stimulate the production of skin cells, Blueberry Extract which provides antioxidants to help eliminate free radicals, and Obagi's own Penetrating Therapeutics to help drive the ingredients deep into the skin. Have I noticed any lines gone missing? Not yet. However, I have noticed slightly firmer skin around my eyes and I'll take that! With continued use, I am hoping to reap even more rewards. B+.
Jouer Cosmetics: Lip/Cheek Tint in Orchid, Mineral Powder Bronzer in Sunshine, Powder Eyeshadow in Chocolat
The Jouer cosmetics line is all about beauty, style and pure modern convenience (the products all snap together to create personalized palettes). And I am not sure that there could be a more suited product for me than this Tint. First, the color is perfect for my skin tone. The finish is 'just my type,' i.e., on the matte side with subtle specks of sparkle. It wears much longer than I anticipated and it's convenient for a tiny clutch (with a mirror, to boot). While I don't use blush often, I have rubbed in this tint in a pinch for an evening event. The Bronzer is beautiful. I was so surprised at how natural the color was and how it completely 'stepped up' my look, providing a sheer glow. The Eyeshadow is another 'must be made for my lifestyle' product. The color is a medium tone brown with shimmer that is great for layering. You can also use it as eyeliner. Wears well, too! All products get an A.
SAMPAR: Prodigal Pen
The convenience of this product won me over. Plus, I love the name! (However, I believe now you can find it as SAMPAR's Pure Perfection Blemish Corrector Pen here.) It contains a blend of Lavender, Cinnamon, Thyme, Rosemary, Sweet Marjoram, Clove and Sage. The size and formula make it the best travel companion. It feels good going on and works well on small to medium blemishes. However, if you have a major blemish, you may need to send in reinforcements. B.
Pangea Organics: The New Radiant Gift Set
It's tough to find good organic skin care these days. One of our testers loved it so much, she wouldn't let anyone near her products. Those she coveted ... The facial cleanser is a real treat ... it feels like a warm greeting. You breathe in this energizing fragrance and there's a connection, a natural bond. It doesn't rest on skin, it merges with skin. The facial scrub is very fine and gentle (a notch above powdered sugar and nowhere near sand-castle-building sand). The scrub is like a nice stretch ... and leaves my face feeling and looking soft, smooth, and clear. The eye cream has true substance. It is a Turkish Rose & White Tea concoction with wonderful ingredients, such as organic cocoa butter, organic evening primrose and organic shea butter among others. Pure, organic, no hormones, straight from the garden (or lab) wholesome. This cream feels so nourishing that by the third day, I was patting it on my forehead, and then all over my face. I give this an A.
Anthelios: Melt-in Sunscreen Milk 60
While I was disappointed that Anthelios' newest product doesn't contain Mexoryl, I was thrilled with its effectiveness. This formula is velvety and fast absorbing (I love applying this sunscreen). It contains Cell-Ox Shield™, a combination of patented high efficacy sun filters and powerful anti-oxidants to protect skin at the cellular level. The anti-oxidant complex is called Senna Alata, which is a tropical leaf extract (defends skin cells). It lasts for a couple of hours, though I recommend application every hour on the hour (my rule of thumb). B+!
Bristol6: Nippies My team had fun with this one. One tester says ... what an amusing undergarment (or outer garment) accessory! Stylish and functional. Great designs — metallic green hearts, sparkly silver stars. I wore them under a black tank top and couldn't even tell I had them on. However, I could see a hint of metallic through the tank top ... but no one else noticed. It was my little secret! Fairly easy to apply and they can be adjusted for best positioning. Not sure they disguise the headlights completely (and I personally wouldn't wear them without a top), but they are fun! They work best for C-cup and under. These get a B+!
Anastasia: Line Erasing Serum
What a nice serum - very moisturizing. After 4 weeks of use, I have noticed some great results. Granted, I don't look 25 again. I used it on my problem areas (forehead, eye area) and definitely noticed a smoothness that did not exist before. It goes on smoothly, absorbs quickly and has no fragrance smell. A little goes a long way. An A.
Lancome: Virtuose Mascara
While this mascara is supposed to curl your lashes, I found it to be a bit weighty, causing the opposite effect. It also smudged under my eyes. You know how picky I am when it comes to mascara. This didn't pass the test. C
mdskincare: Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel
Great product. It's simple and fast to use — little prep is needed with the pre-moistened pads. I did see results in the size of my pores and general condition and texture of my skin. Step 1 definitely has a bit of a burn when first applied, but quickly goes away with step 2. My skin was well moisturized after step 2, but I did not feel oily and it was soothing. I had glowing, radiant skin in about 2 weeks. My brown spots seem to have faded slightly. Two of my friends even asked me what I was doing with my skin after about 2 weeks of use. Another A.
Dr. DENESE NEW YORK: Glow Younger Self Tanner, SPF 30 Defense Day Cream, Firming Facial Light Resurfacing Peel
Nice to meet you Dr. Denese! I have to say, I was blown away with these three products. Advancements in skin care were ever present, which leads me to believe all of Dr. Denese's products must be awesome! A Clear Self Tanner ... with peptides? Yes. It feels like a serum going on, smooth and silky. The processing smell isn't too bad at the end of the day, but it's present. The color is realistic and gradual. As with all self tanners, be careful around your feet. For the first time, I used this self tanner on my face. It provided just a hint of color, which was perfect. The only draw back to it being clear is that you can't see where you have applied the product — can be tricky if you are a newby to self tanners. This gets a B! The Day Cream rocks. I love that the tinted moisturizer contains zinc oxide ... makes me all giddy inside knowing that I am multi-tasking in one product. The formula is matte, so it's excellent for summer. Oily skin folks, you can probably use this all year long. It was a bit drying for me, so I had to mix in a moisturizer. B+! The Resurfacing Peel is amazing. Not only does it smell incredible (and I love the orange color), it provides lasting results. I have become a bit obsessed with this product ... counting the days to the next application. It makes your skin super smooth, radiant and firm. An A.
The Hook-up: Handbag hook
You may have already seen the spotlight on this seriously convenient product. This accessory clips to your handbag and makes it a breeze to keep your handbag off of any dirty surface. The fashionable heart, plated in gold or platinum, clips to your purse strap and twists open to hook your purse to any table or door (or chair, stroller, grocery cart, etc.). It’s fantastic! A.
Hudson Jeans: Triangle Pocket Stretch Boot Cut
I am usually not one to wear a thinner stretch material jean. However, in the case of Hudson, I made an exception. The wash is perfect, the stitching, even better. And guess what? The stretch provides movement without giving out after a few wears. Boot cut and flare jeans are the only styles I can wear, based on my body type, so I was thrilled to find a keeper! As with most thin stretch denim, buy a size down from your normal jean size. B+.
Andrea's Beau: Laurel Jacquard double adjustable soft headband
This hair accessory line also got its own spotlight. After all, some days we need a little inspiration. And doing something different, and stylish, is just what the doctor ordered. I love this headband. The double band makes it an instant enhancement! It adjusts easily (for those occasions when your daughter asks to borrow it). And speaking of ... the little girls' hair accessories will knock your socks off! Of course, an A.
Merz Pharmeceuticals: Mederma Cream Plus SPF 30
While I am still in the midst of testing this product, I just have to rave about its effectiveness on my newest scar. I am so used to applying this product to two of my scars 3x a day that the other day it dawned on me ... I can't find my biopsy scar anymore. It hit me ... brilliant! Thank you Merz Pharmeceuticals for developing an incredible product. While I have a ways to go with my oldest scar, it has definitely lightened in color. This product puts so many smiles on people's faces. For anyone who has a scar, you need this product. Give it time, and you, too, will be pleased as punch. An A, for sure!
OBAGI Medical: ELASTIderm Eye Cream
A great skin care company — I can attest to that, as I am currently reviewing the Condition & Enhance line. This eye cream contains Bi-mineral complex (zinc and copper) to help restore elasticity and build collagen, Malonic Acid to help stimulate the production of skin cells, Blueberry Extract which provides antioxidants to help eliminate free radicals, and Obagi's own Penetrating Therapeutics to help drive the ingredients deep into the skin. Have I noticed any lines gone missing? Not yet. However, I have noticed slightly firmer skin around my eyes and I'll take that! With continued use, I am hoping to reap even more rewards. B+.
Jouer Cosmetics: Lip/Cheek Tint in Orchid, Mineral Powder Bronzer in Sunshine, Powder Eyeshadow in Chocolat
The Jouer cosmetics line is all about beauty, style and pure modern convenience (the products all snap together to create personalized palettes). And I am not sure that there could be a more suited product for me than this Tint. First, the color is perfect for my skin tone. The finish is 'just my type,' i.e., on the matte side with subtle specks of sparkle. It wears much longer than I anticipated and it's convenient for a tiny clutch (with a mirror, to boot). While I don't use blush often, I have rubbed in this tint in a pinch for an evening event. The Bronzer is beautiful. I was so surprised at how natural the color was and how it completely 'stepped up' my look, providing a sheer glow. The Eyeshadow is another 'must be made for my lifestyle' product. The color is a medium tone brown with shimmer that is great for layering. You can also use it as eyeliner. Wears well, too! All products get an A.
SAMPAR: Prodigal Pen
The convenience of this product won me over. Plus, I love the name! (However, I believe now you can find it as SAMPAR's Pure Perfection Blemish Corrector Pen here.) It contains a blend of Lavender, Cinnamon, Thyme, Rosemary, Sweet Marjoram, Clove and Sage. The size and formula make it the best travel companion. It feels good going on and works well on small to medium blemishes. However, if you have a major blemish, you may need to send in reinforcements. B.
Pangea Organics: The New Radiant Gift Set
It's tough to find good organic skin care these days. One of our testers loved it so much, she wouldn't let anyone near her products. Those she coveted ... The facial cleanser is a real treat ... it feels like a warm greeting. You breathe in this energizing fragrance and there's a connection, a natural bond. It doesn't rest on skin, it merges with skin. The facial scrub is very fine and gentle (a notch above powdered sugar and nowhere near sand-castle-building sand). The scrub is like a nice stretch ... and leaves my face feeling and looking soft, smooth, and clear. The eye cream has true substance. It is a Turkish Rose & White Tea concoction with wonderful ingredients, such as organic cocoa butter, organic evening primrose and organic shea butter among others. Pure, organic, no hormones, straight from the garden (or lab) wholesome. This cream feels so nourishing that by the third day, I was patting it on my forehead, and then all over my face. I give this an A.
Anthelios: Melt-in Sunscreen Milk 60
While I was disappointed that Anthelios' newest product doesn't contain Mexoryl, I was thrilled with its effectiveness. This formula is velvety and fast absorbing (I love applying this sunscreen). It contains Cell-Ox Shield™, a combination of patented high efficacy sun filters and powerful anti-oxidants to protect skin at the cellular level. The anti-oxidant complex is called Senna Alata, which is a tropical leaf extract (defends skin cells). It lasts for a couple of hours, though I recommend application every hour on the hour (my rule of thumb). B+!
Bristol6: Nippies My team had fun with this one. One tester says ... what an amusing undergarment (or outer garment) accessory! Stylish and functional. Great designs — metallic green hearts, sparkly silver stars. I wore them under a black tank top and couldn't even tell I had them on. However, I could see a hint of metallic through the tank top ... but no one else noticed. It was my little secret! Fairly easy to apply and they can be adjusted for best positioning. Not sure they disguise the headlights completely (and I personally wouldn't wear them without a top), but they are fun! They work best for C-cup and under. These get a B+!
