Thank you Daily Mail… Here’s my beauty giveaway!

March 3rd, 2009

It’s been a frustrating couple of weeks in the land of newspapers.  Stories I’ve written or contributed to have been changed after I saw them last.  Sometimes people have been upset as a result.  And sometimes effort has gone un-credited.  

As with this piece in the Daily Mail, about 50 best beauty products.  The author asked several beauty editors to list their favourite products and say why.  Not as easy as it sounds, it takes time to figure out your definitive list, although it’s fun to do.  The article came out and lo and behold, all our names were cut (I’d like to remind you that we didn’t get paid to do this) and there was certainly no website namecheck - the only reason I did it.  You wonder why they think we would contribute to such an article, what’s in it for us?  The author of the piece was really apologetic, and I understand - it happens to us all.  Something you check off is subsequently edited and it’s not the way you would have done it yourself. 

At first I thought, well that’s easily rectified, I can write a comment on the website page, thank them for the informative article, point out that I was one of the contributors and add those products that for some reason they cut.  Only surprise surprise, they didn’t add my comment to their page.  (although they did have time to add 80 plus comments to their feature about how awful Katie Holmes looks - when she so DOESN’T look awful at all, look at the woman, no make-up and still amazing skin!) 

So why am I thanking the Daily Mail?  Because it’s a reminder of why I enjoy blogging so much.  The only mistakes are mine.  There’s no one else to go changing things in a hurry and getting it wrong with sometimes dire consequences.  

And so with that in mind, I contacted the PRS who represent the products on my original list that were then cut,  just to show you that anything the Daily Mail can do, we can do too.  

They’ve very generously contributed a prize each.  All you have to do to win this superb selection is tell me what your all-time top three beauty products are, and why, in the comments page following this post and a goody bag with a little something special from Chantecaille; Dr Bragi;  Cowshed; Soap & Glory; MLab; and Nude will be on its way to you. 

It’s worth entering -  unlike the Daily Mail with its mega circulation, I only have about 1000 hits a month and no one writes ANYTHING on the comments page, so you have a REALLY GOOD CHANCE OF WINNING! 

Winners to be chosen by March 20th. I’ll email you to let you know you’ve won and then send you the prize.  Easy! 

Until then, here’s my original selection of ten products, (the category they gave me was loosely anti-ageing) and why I like them.  If you want to find out where to get them, or how much they cost, there’s a link to the appropriate website.  And if you want to know what you’re winning, there’s a little WIN! written right next to the products.  (Sorry, if I was more of a geek I could give you a big old flashing star, or something with a bit more son et lumiere about it,  but sadly, all you get is a little WIN!..) 

KATHLEEN’S TOP TEN ANTI-AGEING BEAUTY PRODUCTS

TONERChantecaille Eau de Rose de Mai, Pure Rosewater. WIN!

I’ve never been a fan of toners, but this one is a magical indulgence made purely from rose petals and well water.  It’s almost mood-changing, and I want to spray it from top to toe.  Sometimes I do.  

 

HYDRATING MASKDr Bragi Marine Enzyme Intensive Treatment Mask - WIN!

Use as a pre-party pick me up, just wait a few minutes after removal to let the moisture really settle and you’ll have an amazing dewy finish to your skin which lasts all night.  Plus it comes in sachets which are perfect for travelling – on holiday is sometimes the only time you have for luxuries like face-masks!

 

FACIAL OIL:Cowshed Raspberry Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Oil - Win!

If you can’t find the time or the money for a proper facial, this is the DIY version.  It’s a great alternative to a serum, as it sinks straight into the skin prior to moisturising, and the aromatherapy oils make you feel like you’ve just checked into a spa. (If you keep your eyes closed and the bathroom door firmly shut, that is)…

 

EVERYDAY EYE CREAM:Sarah Chapman Skinesis Eye Recovery

Tightens instantly. The effect doesn’t last all day (none of them do) but it makes me feel I’ve achieved something nonetheless and I swear I’ve seen a (slight) improvement on my under-eye shadows.

 

NIGHT CREAMOmorovicza Rejuvenating Night Cream

I wanted the emotional comfort of a cold cream/Nivea and the high-tech functionality of an anti-ageing cream.  This one does both, exceptionally well, yet it’s not too heavy like some night creams.  I wake feeling like my skin looks brighter and feels super-soft.

 

BEST HIGH STREET RANGE:Soap & Glory - Win!

Without a doubt!  Who else delivers a high powered cocktail of anti-ageing peptides, packed into a serum for £12.99?  You can’t go wrong with this range; I’d use it over many of the luxe ranges any time.

 

BEST LUXURY RANGE:M Lab - Win!

I can’t always test everything myself, so I sent this out to a couple of friends to try, one aged 50, one aged 40.  They were absolutely raving about it, wanting to know where they could buy it themselves, completely hooked, so I tried it myself and am very happy with the results.  The textures of the creams are divine, you really feel like they’re doing something.

BEST FAKE TAN FOR THE FACEChanel Soleil Identite

If you want something very natural and easy to apply, this is the one -  top make-up artists swear by it.  It doesn’t streak, lasts for a few days, is wonderfully uplifting for your complexion.

 

BEST SERUMKate Somerville Total Vitamin Antioxidant Face Serum

It’s like a face-lift every morning.  Love it.  Tightens the skin, and leaves it looking brighter and firmer.

 

BEST SKINCARE SUPPLEMENTSNude - Win!

This perhaps isn’t the best recommendation but it’s the packaging I love here!  I am hopeless at taking pills, but these are the only ones I take.  They’re a good all-round supplement and they look great in my bathroom cupboard.  Shallow, moi?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

49 responses so far ↓

  • 1 Jennifer Hamm // Mar 7, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    top three beauty products:
    Soap and Glory Face Serum
    ReVive MOisturizing Renewal Creme
    ESPA Facial Oil

  • 2 Anna Curtis // Mar 8, 2009 at 2:29 am

    My top three:

    Bellaplex moisturiser discovered while googling best anti ageing cream,(such a sucker for latest products) been using it for two weeks now very happy with the results. Its an american company got a good deal on at the moment four months worth for $150.00.

    Cosmedix factor 28 moisturiser been using it for 10 years now won’t go anywhere with out it fantastic protection. From Constance Campion anti aging guru.

    Joe Malone vitamin E body treatment oil, smells yummy and is the best body oil I have ever used you want to eat it!!!

  • 3 Amanda E // Mar 9, 2009 at 2:12 am

    Lipophénol Végétal Cellulite Intensive Body Treatment by Yves Rocher
    - This tightens so amazingly. You can use it anywhere that needs toning and tightening and it’s natural botanicals.

    St Ives Apricot Scrub
    -Been using it for years. It smells amazing. It’s not rough on the skin, so it exfoliates very gently and leaves a glowing and smooth finish

    Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
    -I was introduced to this just recently, and it has made a huge difference in my makeup. Eyeshadow sticks to it, looks more vibrant, and there is no creasing whatsoever, which is my favourite benefit. I don’t have to redo my makeup at all thanks to this primer potion. It’s amazing.

  • 4 Rebecca Moncauskas // Mar 9, 2009 at 3:28 am

    #!. LATHER -
    http://www.lather.com/
    mint thyme hair wash with mint thyme creme rinse
    - This stuff is unbelievable! It makes my Hair really smooth and no frizzes! I can blow dry my hair with a brush and using no other additional anti-frizz creams and it still is smooth! It also smells fabulous. Its the only shampoo and conditioner I’ve found I really LOVE!

    #2. Body Shop - Strawberry Body Polish -
    http://www.thebodyshop-usa.com/bodyshop/browse/product_detail.jsp;jsessionid=8B1kbFu9YUkoC7XsaSjS+A**.bsbwilapp03-bsprd-app-102?productId=prod3650055&categoryId=search
    WOW! Makes your skin soft and smooth! Smells Outrageous like you have been swimming in a strawberry field! And its fun because it has crushed walnut shells and kiwi seeds that resemble strawberry seeds for that extra clean scrub.

    #3. Deep Cleansing Hand Gel -
    http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3230446&cp=&fbc=1&f=PAD%2FFragrance+or+Color%2FJapanese+Cherry+Blossom&kw=anti-bacterial+gels&fbn=Fragrance+or+Color%7CJapanese+Cherry+Blossom&parentPage=search
    I know kinda silly one to put… BUT I work with children and its always nice to feel like you have killed all the nasty germs (I’m talking about the germs NOT the children). Its also nice to have for that long plane trip somewhere. All the fragrances are fabulous but who wouldn’t want to smell like Japanese Cherry Blossom!

    I hope someday YOU get to try these products - Hope you love them as much as I do!

  • 5 Maggz Bennett // Mar 9, 2009 at 4:12 am

    Anne French cleansing milk -cheap and easy to use - leaves skin feeling clean but not tight
    Penhaligon’s Violetta body lotion - smells divine is easily absorbed and goes with other products to layer scent
    YSL Touche Eclat - makes me look human after (too much) tequila!

  • 6 sophie Matthews // Mar 9, 2009 at 5:13 am

    Natura Bisse - Diamond Extreme Eye - it’s so expensive it has to work.
    Clarins - Eau de confort - Nettoyante Express - it’s refreshing, easy to use, smells good.
    Creme Intemporelle Intense by Kibio “Bio” - natural, smells good, guiltless.

  • 7 Denice Jones // Mar 10, 2009 at 1:07 am

    IS Clinical Youth - so expensive but once you’ve tried it, you’re hooked. It really does make your skin look younger!

    Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel - another must have. Really easy to use and smoothes skin out a treat.

    Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm - I’ve used tons of different cleansers but always come back to this one. I have rosacea prone skin and this always works when my skin is inflamed: it is very soothing and stops any sensitivity- I just love it.

  • 8 Paula Kelley // Mar 10, 2009 at 1:50 am

    Top Three Beauty Products

    1. Elizabeth Arden Daily Moisture
    I know, EA is hardly a “young, hip” name in skincare, but I have been using this product for over ten years, since I was about 25, and people still think I look about 25! My skin used to be oily with a tendency to break out. Now it’s even toned and almost always clear, and I get compliments on it pretty much every day. It’s a light cream, yet when your skin absorbs it it doesn’t feel like it goes away completely, as some creams do. Seriously, it’s turned my skin around. Now I’m freaked out they’re going to discontinue it. Please, god, nooooo! I’ve been trying to find an equivalent…any suggestions?

    2. Mac Select SPF Foundation in NC20

    Though I finally ended up with good skin, I still have my share of flaws- couple acne scars, bit o redness around my nose, general ickiness. This foundation is perfect for covering those. It’s not a heavy makeup per se, but it’s not so light so as not to be able to cover minor blotchiness. It’s nice and smooth and evens out my tone perfectly. Mwah hah hah. My trickery is complete.

    3. Urban Decay lipstick in Gash

    As I am a paleface, redheaded Irish-Danish woman, I like to wear bold lipstick and very little eye makeup.(This is also because I don’t have much patience in the morning and often screw up my eye makeup, as I’m going blind and getting palsied.)I love Gash a) because of its highly innuendoed name, b) because it’s a great deep red without being a cliche “bombshell” color, and c) it has great staying power, and when it fades, it fades evenly, rather than leaving you with that icky ring. I lurves it.

    That’s my story. Thanks!
    PK

  • 9 Jo Craven // Mar 10, 2009 at 3:31 am

    1. Carita Rice Anti Ageing moisturising cream.
    It seems really too shiny but in winter it absorbs really well and just gives you the right amount of protection and stretch.
    2. Spiezia Organic Rose facial cleanser. Again it feels as though it’s not stripping anything away and leaves me feeling soft, not taut.
    3. Clarins Orchid oil - does it sound like i need moisture? i love putting it under my eyes in the day for a bit of shine, but after a bath the smell is heavenly and feels like i’m doing my skin a favour.

  • 10 Natalie // Mar 10, 2009 at 4:39 am

    1) MOP Systen C Hydrating Shampoo: leaves my dry hair lovely & clean, but moisturised too without drying it out - plus no nasty SLS.

    2) Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance: Lovely moisturiser for my sensitive skin - leaves it thoroughly quenched without clogging pores.

    3) Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser: gently cleanses my face without irritating.

  • 11 Anelisa // Mar 10, 2009 at 10:21 am

    Apparently I don’t have as expensive tastes as you guys, but I could certainly develop some if the opportunity arose, *Wink!* I’m 16, so I’m not as much into wrinkle creams and stuff. I’m a bit hair obsessed, though.

    Top 3 Beauty Products:

    Redkin Straightening Cream- I only like my hair when I’ve fried the living heck out of it, and this stuff gets it bone straight. It also helps when I curl the ends.

    Hairspray- I like Bed Head products, and Tre Semme. Like I said, I like to abuse my hair, not only with heat, but soemtimes by back combing, too. This stuff helps it stay put no matter what ridiculous poofs I put it into. After I’m done torturing my tresses, I always condition it with Dove, and peices haven’t fallen off yet, so I guess it’s working!

    Exfoliant- Hi, I’m Anelisa, and I’m an over-exfoliator. *Hi, Anelisa* I like products from Avon, especially the ones that heat up when you wash your face. My (guy)friend commented that I had a soft face once after touching it, so *something* must be working!

  • 12 Nina // Mar 10, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    1. Lush Herbalism cleanser - I’ve just started using this and so far I’m loving it! It keeps the oil at bay and prevents breakouts.

    2. Rosehip Oil - I tried this once as a last-ditch effort to improve the scar on my leg. Amazingly it really works! Especially when your wounds are beginning to heal, apply this and guaranteed no scar will form.

    3. Lancome Color Fever Gloss in Heatstroke - I absolutely adore this color and I love that this gloss isn’t sticky. The unique applicator makes applying this a breeze. When it eventually wears out I love that it leaves a shimmer on my lips so I don’t feel completely bare.

  • 13 Lynne // Mar 10, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    a) Aveda Scalp Benefits shampoo and conditioner. I have a very sensitive scalp and this is wonderfully calming. The essential oils make it (and my hair) smell lovely as well.

    b) Lush Happy Hippy Grapefruit Shower Gel. Oh my, how to feel young again! I loved this when it was first out way back when and I still love it now.

    c) YSL Touche Eclat. What can be said? Still the best, and still does what it says on the can so well.

    and a little extra one for luck:

    Bio Oil. It really does make scar marks fade, and leaves my skin feeling lovely and silky.

  • 14 Lizzie Edwards // Mar 11, 2009 at 9:00 am

    Nothing unusual here - a follower rather than a leader..

    1- Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour cream - my lipstick effort

    2- Liz Earle hot cloth cleanse & polish - makes me glow and feel fresh and takes off pretty much everything in one go even if I cant be bothered

    3 - Estee Lauder Day Wear Plus tinted moisturiser - im not a foundation person so I rub it in, & look a bit more even toned and shiny.

    Fingers crossed - I LOVE a goody bag…

  • 15 Caroline // Mar 11, 2009 at 9:41 pm

    This list from a 40 year old (well, 41 tomorrow) whose annual beauty spend never exceeds £20 - yes, I’m quite serious. (But ocasionally someone nice like my glam sis Lizzie presents me with gifts that double or even quadruple my own outlay) :-)

    I can’t be without:
    Vaseline - lips, eyelashes - so useful and have you seen that new Rosy flavour in the cute tin?

    Badedas bath foam - such a wonderful blast from the past - a fab smell and gets you clean!

    Body shop ginger body butter/mousse - luxurious, hydrating and a gorgeous, sophisticated smell.

    p.s. have very much enjoyed your blog Kathleen!

  • 16 Jessica M // Mar 11, 2009 at 11:45 pm

    1)
    Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream.
    Good for dry knees, elbows, lips, hands and feet. Feels deliciously indulgent and smells yummy. I also cover my entire face in it about once a month to put the moisture back after city stresses.

    2) Benefit- You Rebel
    (Here I could have mentioned half their collection but this is the top)
    Beautiful tinted moisturiser that is not to heavy and makes your face glow and look refreshed. Plus now it comes in two colours, so good if you have a tan or no.

    3) Palm Olive’s Cocoa Butter
    Though actually I prefer the Olive Butter flavour. Original formula, bargain buy and brilliant moisturiser. Keeps my body smooth and soft and also helps get rid of stretch marks. There’s plenty of flavours and you can buy it in huge pots which is so important. What is it with those tiny tubes of body moisturiser that would do about one leg.

    That’s it. This website keeps correcting my fine English spelling into the American counterpart. Hmmm.

  • 17 David Bigwood // Mar 13, 2009 at 1:28 am

    1. Neutrogenia hair conditioner. No residue, smell, or stiffness. Just something to recover from the wash.

    2. Co-Q10 Makes me feel so much healthier. Healthy looks good.

    3. Dove fragrence free soap. Skin needs lots less moisturizer. No smell.

  • 18 Jessica Gearhart // Mar 13, 2009 at 5:29 am

    Top three is so hard to do but will persevere…

    1. A smile: Seriously, if you’re grimacing you’ll never look good. Ever. No matter what, cosmetically, you’ve done with yourself. Smile, even if you just do it with your eyes.

    2. Smashbox Artificial Light: I mix this right into my pots of foundation and tinted moisturiser (I put everything into pots so I can custom blend things) and it makes my skin look luminious, even and blemish free every time. Foundations are many (Revlon Colorstay, NVEY Eco, Cle de Peau and anything with a mousse texture) and usually applied with a damp Beautyblender. Gives an airbrushed texture to the skin. Use it with creme blush too (Guerlain’s is the best).

    3. DiorShow Iconic Mascara. Every time I wear it, people ask me if I’m wearing fake lashes. I’m not. Ever. It gives you Brigitte Bardot eyes.

  • 19 Maija Haavisto // Mar 14, 2009 at 6:33 pm

    1. Wella Professionals Remove Shampeeling
    - the only thing that helps my seborrhea and I’ve tried lots of things

    2. Tom of Maine’s Honeysuckle Rose deodorant
    - the only deodorant that doesn’t cause me skin irritation (which has sometimes led to painful and dangerous lymph node infections) and that actually works, nice fragrance too (don’t know if deodorants count as “beauty products”, but they better have)

    3. KMS Daily Fixx Strengthening Treatment
    - great repairing conditioner for hair that geats easily damaged

  • 20 Rachel // Mar 14, 2009 at 6:55 pm

    1. Nars the Multiple. Blusher, lipstick and at a push eye colour all in one neat little tube that lasts forever. Supremely useful and easy.

    2. Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1. Just the best lip balm ever. Period.

    3. Urban Decay’s Big Fatty Lip Plumper. For gorgeous pillows of lips with a soft shimmer but without a hint of trout pout.

  • 21 Bethan // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:22 pm

    My top three… I use so many products this is going to be hard!
    1. St Ives Apricot Scrub - the only thing that I’ve found has really made my skin feel as soft and as smooth as I’d like, my skin feels in amazing condition with this, and I really like to add honey to it for an extra boost.

    2. Ever Since dead sea salt body scrub - I bought this after a very convincing sales pitch in Debenhams, I wouldn’t usually spend over £10 on a product like this (student!) but it is simply gorgeous, it leaves your skin feeling smooth and soft, without being shiny like some scrubs I’ve used, and it comes with an amazing-smelling hand and body lotion.

    3. Palmers Cocoa Butter - any flavour, I love the weird green concoction for skin-related emergencies (everything seems to clear up more quickly with this one), and their SPF 10 moisturiser for every day. It’s really affordable and it’s really lovely on the skin.

    xxx x

  • 22 Annie Parker // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:23 pm

    Hi my top three are:-

    Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish, the absolute best cleansing system I have ever used, really helps my dry skin.

    Vaseline lip balm, I have a tin in every bag I own and every room in the house. Love it!

    Lush Karma fragrance products, love the body cream, makes me feel pampered and the smell stays all day.

  • 23 Vicky // Mar 14, 2009 at 9:20 pm

    1. Lancome High Resolution Moisturizer - Tried so moisturizers but I always come back to this one. It makes my face feel like silk and looks so much better at 50.

    2. Healthy Sexy Hair Shampoo w/soy - Love this shampoo keeps my hair healthy. I have long hair and I sraighten it almost daily.

    3. Bio Oil - It’s for scars and stretch marks. I use it for more than that. I use at night on my face to fade brown spots. It has worked wonders. It goes right in and does not make your face greasy.

  • 24 Fae // Mar 14, 2009 at 11:37 pm

    Top 3:

    1. MAC Fast Response Eye Cream. It’s amazing, really brightens dark circles and tightens up puffy undereye. I use it most in the AM to wake my eyes up.

    2. Smashbox Photofinish Primer. It’s not technically skincare, but it’s this amazing stuff that you put a dab on, smooth it all over and it turns your skin into this smooth, poreless, perfect canvas for your makeup. Makes makeup last allllll day, too, no melting off. Amazing.

    3. MAC Strobe Cream. My favorite moisturizer. It has finely crushed pigment in it that gives your skin an amazing dewy glow. For days when you don’t want to mess with makeup but still want to look good, Strobe Cream is perfect. Something to do with the pigments reflecting light, it really does give the illusion of fresh, awake skin with less flaws.

    I also second the lady up above who rec’d Urban Decay Primer Potion. It’s amazing. So’d Too- Faced Shadow Insurance for the same effect but longer lasting.

  • 25 Sally // Mar 15, 2009 at 4:52 am

    Very hard to choose top three but the things I use most consistently are:

    (1) Chanel Vita Lumiere foundation. It’s silky smooth and the only foundation I’ve found that doesn’t make me look like an orange

    (2) Clarins Wonder Length Mascara. The most unblobby lengthening mascara in the world ever.

    (3) MAC eyeshadow - Mylar base shade. I go mad if I can’t get this, MAC eyeshadows are so well pigmented and this one is totally matte white, which is a hard thing to find.

  • 26 Zereen // Mar 18, 2009 at 10:06 am

    Nude Cleansing Oil - this is the only cleanser that actually does get rid of eye makeup and rinses clean off. It smells gorgeous too!
    Creme de la Mer foundation in Buff - This is a gorgeous foundation that makes you look like you’ve got no makeup on and you’ve just got naturally gorgeous skin, which is the whole point of foundation!
    Giorgio Armani colour corrector in Peach - I have terrible dark circles and this featherlight corrector manages to neutralise the darkness without looking cakey.

  • 27 ModernGearTV Tamara // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:00 am

    Wow, yes please! My secret is Eveline Charles silver antibacterial soap. Love her whole line, actually. It’s like a more affordable Darphin. But I love all kind of goodies and would love to win!!

  • 28 Sarah Wolf // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:02 am

    1) Water. Always works - to drink and to wash in. My skin (at the ripe old age of 34) still looks okay really!

    2) Clarins Beauty Flash Balm. It tells me to wear it under make-up which I never do but it still gives me a great, tightened, healthy looking face which is always commented on.

    3) Juicy Tubes. Just fun! Sparkly, sweet and just a little bit of colour. Perfect.

  • 29 Julie // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:02 am

    My top three:

    1. Zapzyt Cream. I’ve used it since 7th grade. No other cream (in my opinion) dries and gets rid of a pimple/blemish faster than this! It’s only $5 at most drug stores. I’ve turned all my close gfs into addicts!

    2. Neutrogena Deep Clean (yellow bottle). Also used since 7th grade. Refreshing (nice tingly feel) and takes off all your makeup with one cleanse!

    3. Wet n’ wild false eyelashes. I swear, I have the shortest eyelashes of anyone. Decided to try these one day for fun, been loving them since! They’re really light, none of that cheesy, dramatic look, and have received SO many compliments. I’ve tried $$$ pairs, but for $2, you get your money’s worth. Promise.

  • 30 sherri haymond // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:10 am

    1. NARS custard (or whatever color works with your skin type) concealer. BEST concealer, ever. Period.

    2. Aquaphor - great trick, works for everything. Dry skin, mixes with various makeup products to make them spreadable (if that’s the look you’re going for) - I carry around a little tube all the time.

    3. Mario Badescu Tempoprary Lifting Mask - organic (trying to go all organic…) and makes your skin look instantly AMAZING - great to use night before a big event (though i admit i use it once/week!)

    If you know of a great organic/natural (no parabens/carcinogens) eye cream, pls let me know - im desperately looking for one to replace my beloved bliss the youth as we know it (which is awesome but chock full o’ bad stuff…)

  • 31 Patience Ann // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:14 am

    I am beyond poor, so my top three beauty products maybe aren’t as classy as some of these ladies’ choices, but hey… Whatcha gonna do?
    At the moment I absolutely cannot live without Enzymion facial moisturizer from Lush, it smells *DREAMY* and it’s really, really good for my combo skin, I’m never too early in the morning if I’ve used it at night. Vaseline Intensive Care Vitalizing Gel Body Oil is my supremely necessary body product of the moment, again with a delicious scent and makes my skin look & feel wonderful. And Vaseline Rosy Lips is the perfect lip balm for every-day, around-the-house use, it’s delicious and makes me so kissable and has just enough color to keep me from feeling blank. :D

  • 32 Michelle // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:16 am

    Top 3 Beauty products of all time:
    1.Banana boat after sun lotion
    (Only thing that soothes my sometimes burned skin in to a bautiful tan)
    2.Philosophy Purity face wash. (only thing that REALLY takes off my makeup.)
    3. Plush Lash Mascara by MAC (WILL NOT LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT IT.)

    =) Hope I win! You’re blogs are truly entertaining and I enjoy reading your tweets as well

  • 33 Sherry Hall // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:23 am

    1. Revlon Super Lustrous Coffee Bean lipstick. I never leave the house without this. It goes perfect with my red hair and green eyes and is unscented (scented lipstick give me a headache).

    2. OLAY Active Hydrating Beauty Fluid, Sensitive Skin- $8. My pale skin is very sensitive and this is perfect. Unscented with an SPF- 15. I use it every day to keep the wrinkles and freckles away.

    3. Avon Super Shape Anti-Cellulite & Stretch Mark Cream - $15. While nothing can cure the problems created by having two children, this cream is helping. After using for a month the stretchmarks has noticeably faded and my skin is tightening back up and it was much cheaper than plastic surgery. I also use on arms and thighs to tighten and hopefully keep the genetic bat wings away.

  • 34 Sabrina // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:24 am

    1. Somme Institute Eye Cream

    2. Philosophy exfoliating Lip Cream

    3. Bare Minerals: Mineral Veil

  • 35 Emily // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:27 am

    Narrowing my list down to just three beauty products is a significant challenge! After all, my bathroom looks more like a drug store than a powder room. Despite my toiling, I have chosen three of my absolute favs.

    1) MAC Eyelashes in Size 36: These give you effortless, instant glam with hardly any effort. When you wear them, everyone knows there’s “something about you” but can’t quite place it. A quick way to flirt up your style and an absolute staple in my life.

    2) Chanel Glossimer for Lips: Add sparkle and intense shine for a kissably-fun look. A fan of too many colors to pick just one! Pucker up!

    3) Pantene Silver Expressions Shampoo/Conditioner: This product is a must-have for blondes who want to fight brassiness! Although it’s formulated for silvery gray strands, it’s the perfect formula for keep blondes oh-so bright and works better than most salon-formulate blonde shampoos that I’ve tried!

    And there you have it. My top three (for this week, at least). Read more about my favorite picks at http://www.prettyandpoor.com!

  • 36 Rachel Sayers // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:30 am

    Hi! My three new faves are:

    1. Chapstick Naturals. Gotta keep the lips slick on the simplest of days and like the ingredients.

    2. Coconut Dream cream by The Wholefood Farmacy. It is created from whole, raw foods and is simply uncomparable for hands and body even in the midst of a hardcore winter. LOVE IT!

    3. Sublime facial cream from The Wholefood Farmacy. This is also fantastic and the scent really perks me up. Pure ingredients. Excellent results!

    Actually I have a great time with the Wholefood Farmacy exfoliating scrub too but I don’t use it everyday like chapstick/lipbalms so that one won out.
    My husband says that it smells wonderful but when it entices him to join me in the bathroom he laughs because he says it looks like I am rolling in the grass…(rosemary!) Thanks!

  • 37 susan finney // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:33 am

    l dont have a big budget.single parent and all that but my mum gets me my one indulgence for my birthday and christmas Liz Earle Cleanse&Polish.next it would be Vaseline and lastly lots of water.x

  • 38 Kimberly // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:39 am

    top 3:
    St. Tropez Step 2 Auto Bronzant Self tanner-by far the only self tanner I have found that I like the result of.

    Soap and Glory Sexy Motherpucker Lip glosses-Perfect sheer colors, and you can feel them plumping.

    Diorshow Iconic Mascara. good for everyday wear, it’s waterproof, smudge-proof, and has a nifty brush that separates every lash.

  • 39 Annie // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:40 am

    My top three? I’m a low maintenance gal and rarely wear make up but also bike commute to work and very much value balanced skin care.

    #1 Dove. An good clean that doesn’t dry out your skin? = Awesome!

    #2 Skin So Soft. I’ve been hooked on this Avon product since childhood. It is a great balanced total body moisturizer, smells nice AND repells bugs!

    #3 Far Away Shimmer Gel. I put a little of this on my cheekbones. It hints at color, looks natural and reflects light toward my eyes making them look brighter.

    The three of these together are great for a no make up/no hassle look that is good for my skin and won’t melt off my face if I have to exert myself somewhere along the line.

  • 40 Leann // Mar 20, 2009 at 5:51 am

    Can I win if I’m in the U.S.? I’m going to participate anyway.

    1. I’m cheap, so anytime I find a good brand of makeup that isn’t expensive, I jump for joy. E.L.F. Cosmetics has some good stuff and my favorite right now is their Mineral Boost powder. It matches all skin tones and creates a beautiful finish to whatever foundation you have on (or even if you don’t have any on). In fact, all of their mineral makeup is pretty good stuff!

    2. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Scrub - I have adult acne and I’m allergic to benzoyl peroxide so I can’t use products like ProActive. This facial cleanser is one of the only ones that prevents breakouts and controls the ones that seem to make their way through.

    3. Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eyeroller - I am about to turn 30 and the past six months my eyelids have been very dark and slightly puffy. This stuff has caffeine in it to constrict the blood vessels and delicate eye tissue. I love it and it makes my eyes brighter about ten minutes after I’ve applied it.

  • 41 najeema // Mar 20, 2009 at 6:11 am

    This will be short since it’s from my phone.
    Growing up I was teased about my name. Kids called me Neutrogena every chance they got. Ironically, as an adult, I pretty much exclusively use Neutrogena products. Solid performance and affordable. Leading off my list is the Neutrogena Eye make-up remover. I tend to lay it on thick, so I really need something to protect my precious eyes when I get home at night.

    Second product is the Biosilk Hair Serum. Except no substitutes people. This soft, silky product is never heavy or overbearing on my hair. With a scent that reminds me that it’s working, and the added bonus that I can use it on my skin as well.

    Third (funny I don’t want this list to end), I MUST keep my lips moisturized. It’s critical. I discovered Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula with Vitamin E and I have not looked back since. I smack my lips together just to feel the softness. Vain, I know. But of the top beauty products, this one is the simpliest and easiest and does the most to enhance my natural beauty.

    Nothing incredible fancy, no French names, no crazy ingredients. Just plain simple and effective. I’ve enjoyed reading others’ posts and will be doing some testing! Thanks y’all.

  • 42 Shelley Carter-Bright // Mar 20, 2009 at 7:05 am

    1. Estee Lauder Idealist - Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher.
    I smooth on my face before moisturising and my battered leather handbag skin feels as satin smooth as a Balenciaga evening purse!

    2.Clarins Body Treatment Oil (Firming/Toning).
    I apply this to my troublesome wobbly regions when my skin is slightly damp. The fragance of this uber gorgeous oil evokes an “I’ve just been pampered in the Spa!” feel.

    3. Neutrogena Pure Glow Daily Cleansing Cushions.
    Perfect for ‘girls on the go’ these clever little pocket cushions cleanse, exfoliate and moisturise in one. They’re inexpensive and do what it says on the tin - you’ll GLOW!

    Thank you Kathleen - I rather enjoyed that.
    Shelley XXX

  • 43 monica carmen birakos // Mar 20, 2009 at 8:07 am

    I am a certified beauty product junkie. I am always looking at the newest products in magazines, stores, internet, etc… but there are always those certain, timeless products I use without ever changing because they work for me.

    Categorizing my three favorite beauty products is difficult, but I think good skincare, foundation, and a signature fragrance is basic, but essential.

    So here are my three favorites:

    1. Shiseido ‘Bio-Performance’ Super Eye Contour Cream. A good eye cream is so important, I have been using this for the past 7 years and have never turned back. It adds moisture, but isn’t too heavy. It reduces & prevents fine lines & puffiness. It’s rather affordable too. You are never too young for a great eye cream!!!

    2. Bobbi Brown Stick Foundation #3. I am olive skinned and I love the tone of Bobbi Brown foundation and her range of colors. The foundation is natural and easy to carry, especially for travel. I have used this for the past 10 years, and although I have tried a few other brands for fun, this one is always perfect & I will never change!

    3. Miss Dior Cherie Eau de Parfum. I love this fragrance so much. Although it has only been around, nearly 3 years-it is my signature fragrance. It smells sweet (strawberry leaves, jasmine, musk, caramelized popcorn…), but not overpowering & is perfect for day or night. Most importantly, it doesn’t give me a headache. I think it’s perfect!

  • 44 Elizabeth Harris // Mar 20, 2009 at 10:01 am

    Being a single mum i cant afford the newest and best beauty products but I wont leave the house without shiny styled hair, makeup and confidence,

    I change brands all the time but my top 3 products

    Nina Ricci smoothing softness toner, so gentle and leaves a veil of moisture behind

    St Tropex tanning lotion, being a typical english rose my skin looks slightly blue so it needs revving up once in a while - easy to use and good results

    Dermalogica moisture booster, leave a feel like a primer over skin a perfect makeup base

  • 45 Alana // Mar 20, 2009 at 10:12 am

    I used to be a major beauty product junkie…my bathroom cabinets were filled to the brim with half used hair serums, facial masks, and cellulite creams. Somehow I have managed to curb my product desires - I am only allowed a certain number of products in my bathroom…period. I sort of have a semi-strict ‘natural’ only rule these days - so you wont see anything too fancy pants. Here goes my list:

    Dr. Hauschka Masacara - this stuff is amazing!! I tried it because other mascaras were causing me to get really itchy red eyes. This stuff works just as well if not better than any other mascara I have ever used - and it smells good. It’s all natural and contains some wonderful herbal ingredients that can soothe eyes. I cannot say enough good things about this stuff.

    Toner - I use a combination of lavender hydrosol and apple cider vinegar that has been infused with herbs and flowers -it helps maintain skin pH and primes the skin for moisturizer.

    Rene Furterer Dry Shampoo - this stuff works small miracles when I don’t feel like washing my hair but probably should. Great for post gym or fixing minorly greasy bangs. My only real issue is that it isnt really ‘natural’ - sometimes exceptions to the rules are necessary.

  • 46 Bex_R // Mar 20, 2009 at 12:04 pm

    1) Decleor prolagene gel. this stuff is fab for any type of scarring from shaving accidents to acne scars and its just great to have in the bathroom cabinet to reduce the appearance of scarring! I got introduced to this in my work and i would say it really is one of those magical products!

    2) St Ives Apricot facial scrub- Im always trying different exfoliators and yet none ever compare to this. The smell isnt too strong and the grains arent too harsh yet manage to remove dead skin cells effectively to leave my skin glowing and smooth

    3) Herbal Essences shampoo and conditioner (usually the blue one)- im a real hair junkie and will try everything once. I honestly believed for years that the more expensive the product, the better it will perform! But while when i first bought them, i fooled myself into thinking they were fabulous, it was only when i had to rebuy them that i realised they really werent worth it so i moved onto the next one. But after many years of thinking Herbal Essences was a cheap, average brand, i ran out of whatever I was using and the only thing in the bathroom was Herbal Essences and my hair shined from root to tip, felt smooth, glossy and clean. Now id never look at another shampoo or conditioner!

  • 47 Arun Basil Lal // Mar 21, 2009 at 5:18 pm

    I am not into a lot of cosmetics, but I often use:

    1. A hair styling gel, cuz my hair never obeys what I say…

    2. Vaseline, I dont like my lips peeling out

    3. Axe, they say girls love the smell :P I love it too!

    Hope the competition was a success, kudos!

  • 48 amber // Mar 22, 2009 at 7:29 am

    Hope I’m not too late to enter!! I would love all of this swag, everything sounds awesome.

    My favs:

    Philosophy Amazing Grace Shower Gel, the smell is so pretty and feminine, and the scents lasts, I always have people asking me what scent I’m wearing. Plus you can use it on your hair too! It makes my hair silky smooth.

    Make Up Forever Faux Lashes, my lashes have thinned so much lately becauase I have a thyroid condition, and thats no fun because I’m only 26! So I love wearing fake lashes, they add fullness and depth. These lashes last forever and I never even have to re-apply them, they last through a party, concert, or even a hot date!

    Lalicious Brown Sugar Scrub - smells soooo good, and the brown sugar makes any rough patches on skin softer. It’s infused with a rich oil, so this works great for at home mani’s and pedi’s.

    Thanks so much!!
    It was my birthday a few days ago, so I hope I made the giveaway deadline, I’d love to win!

  • 49 Kathleen Baird-Murray — AND THE WINNER IS…..! // Mar 24, 2009 at 5:48 am

    [...] worth reading through everyone’s comments if you have the time.  Here’s the link: http://kathleenbaird-murray.co.uk/2009/03/03/thank-you-daily-mail-heres-my-beauty-giveaway/ beauty [...]

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