Final Review - Philosophy Miracle Worker Neck and Decollete Cream

Final Philosophy Miracle Worker Neck and Decollete Cream Review

I have now finished my tube of Philosophy Miracle Worker Neck and Decollete Cream and would like to give my final thoughts. (You can see my previous 2 posts on this cream for a initial review and a mid way through review)

I was so hoping for the best because I really do like the Philosophy Brand and really do think that they make some great products! Unfortunately, I did not see enough of a result to repurchase the product. I was thinking that I would see some change, due to the fact that I am at that age where I am just beginning to need a product like this. I was trying to be proactive to stop the advancement by starting early. I strongly believe in starting early.

I still believe that there is something out there for me. I am going to do some more research and get back to you. I do like the StriVectin-TL Tightening Neck Cream but I am searching for a cream that addresses the Neck and Decollete. I also want to find a cream with a Retinol in in. And yes the Philosophy did have a Retinyl Palmitate in it. But the ingredient was listed so far down the ingredients list that it makes it worthless to me. If I am looking for a particular ingredient in a product and it is not listed within the first 10 ingredients, than I don't want it! If I can't find one with it listed first, than I would rather get a Rx for Retinol. Than I would put that on my neck and decollete with a nice cream to go along with it.

Thanks,

SikGlam

Outlet Mall Haul Challenge

I had not been outlet Shopping in Years. I think that I could also count on one hand how many times I had been to an outlet mall. I guess the reason being that the past experiences had not been pleasant. Overcrowded, messy merchandising, damaged goods, miss sized items, etc. I thought to myself, "I rather go and spend my money at a Target or Kohl's to save some money than buy something Name Brand that is marked down because it was miss-sized, damaged, or overstocked".

Well I decided to Challenge myself and hit up an Outlet Mall (I was passing one on a day trip) and go to just Five Smaller Stores and spend under $50 at each and try to find the best buy. Here's how it went.

1.) Bath and Body Works.
This was like any normal Bath and Body Works except maybe with a constant Sale going on. It seemed to have all the normal items that the store carries at regular price but with many sales counters. Kind of like what Bath and Body Works is like during a Holiday Sale. Here is a picture of what I bought coming in at just $28.

My favorite items from Bath and Body Works were the Warm Vanilla Sugar Items that I got because that is my All Time Favorite Scent there. I also loved the Paris Nights Themed Body Lotion and Shimmer Mist. Its a light scent. I have to buy light scents since perfumes give me migraines. Oh and LOVE the Rhinestone Pumper that I am going to put in the Body Lotion. So Fab! And its reusable!

2.) American Eagle

Now I am pretty sure this was not an outlet store. Sometimes there are regular stores in outlet malls?? Confuses me... But I have noticed this before. I went in AE anyway because I was on a mission. To get plain white T-Shirts to make the Pretty Little Liars (February 19th, 2013) Aria Inspired White T-Shirt look. The amazing one she wore under the leather jacket with the leggings and Fringe Scarf. I love recreating looks. Look for a Blog on this T-Shirt and look coming soon. Here is a link to the PPL site about the look and how to recreate it. Spent $25 on Both Tee's!

http://beta.abcfamily.go.com/shows/pretty-little-liars/blogs/Season-3/style-file-pretty-little-liars-mandi-line

"Yep in My White Tee"

I got two T-Shirts, one with the Cute Heart on it and one just Plain White to Make the Look. I had to get them in XL and L because the Look of the T-Shirt on Aria in PLL is Long and on the Bigger Side. The T-Shirts at American Eagle come very fitted, so I had to get them big to do the look. I thought the Heart would add an extra something when I wear the shirt with some Jeggings this Spring and a pair of hidden wedge Sneakers. Can't Wait!

3.) Skechers Outlet

This is where I hit the mother load. They had buy one get one half off any shoe. And all the shoes were significantly marked down. I know this for a fact because I buy a lot of Skechers from the real store at my local mall. Like a lot!!! Since I came in significantly under my $50 budget at the last two stores. I spent a little more here. Around $75.00 

I have the brown pair already in Black so I knew I'd love them. I love wearing them with the Leg Warmers that the come with or other colors I have Peaking out with leggings. It looks so cool. Trust me! I get stopped every time! I have a couple pairs of Wedge Sneaker shoes already (way before they blew up) and I could not help myself with this Navy Blue Pair.I definitely though had to do my work with this two pair of shoes with sizing. I had to try about three pairs of my size in each pair to get my correct size. That's why I didn't like outlet shopping! You kinda have to work for it sometimes!

4.) Lancome Fragrance and Cosmetic Co.

Now this was News to me! I had no idea that Makeup Brands had outlets. I was very excited! I did not want to go overboard though and buy a lot, (plus I had to stick to my challenge) in fear that these might be damaged or old goods. I spend $40 on this set.

First of all, love the Bag! Most higher end Beauty Bags will say Dior Beauty or Chanel Beauty when you get them. Not this one, Just YSL..:) It came with a Full Size Touch Eclat Radiant Touche Pen in Number 1 (the Classic Color), a  Full Size Volume Effet Mascara, and a Mini Instant Eye Remover. I tried out the Touche Eclat Pen today and compared in to my others and it worked like a charm!! It never lets me down. Boy did I score there! The Pen is like $40 by itself!

5.) The Makeup Store 

This store had numerous different makeup brands from Clinique to Bobby Brown to Mac! I had to get the skinny on this store from the Saleswoman. She informed me that had been in business for 13 years. She said that they get in items that are about 6 months old. I again wanted to err on the side of caution and only buy 2 items. 

I did my research on first item and it is from the MAC A Tartan Tale Holiday Collection From 2010. I got the Thrill Seekers Pigments in Warm. The saleslady had the gall to say to me that she thought the Pigments were from this Past Holiday Collection. I wanted to say "Mam is Stupid Stamped on My Forehead'! But the Pigment colors were beautiful, seemed in good condition and something I definitely needed. Love me a Pigment! But I am not to keen on being lied too. So I will not be returning to this store. So there loss, they lose my business.

Now at least they did not lie to me on my second item, I also got an Estee Lauder Art of Eyes in Dramatic Smokey! Now this is from the Holiday 2012 Collection and is still for sale on Estee Lauder's Website. And all seems to be in working order..:)

Since this was my last stop and I still had a few bucks left over and had conquered my Challenge in three of the five Stores. I spent $53. Three Dollars Over! 

Well if was definitely a fun challenge and a success! But I am definitely not waiting in anticipation to go back. I scored some cool stuff for a good price, but I think I will stick to my local shops!

Thanks,

Sik Glam

Mini Henri Bendel Haul

Mini Henri Bendel Haul

Today I feel like talking a bit of fashion. On my way to a department store. I walked by one of my favorite Stores, Henri Bendel. Ohh how I tried to look the other way and pretend I did not see it. Ohh how I tried to think of a million reasons why I should not go in. And I had them, believe me! But, alas, I came up with a good one to go in. It was snowing outside and I did not feel like driving home in it and I knew it was going to let up soon. So if I could just kill some time in Henri Bendel, the roads would get clear, and the drive home would be much safer!! Sounds good to me!

I walked in planning on just browsing ( I swear), but there it was! The sale section! They got me again! They had so many bags on sale at 50 to 60% off. That doesn't happen often at Henry Bendel. At least that I come across! Especially this many of them at one time. The counter was literally full and there was even some hanging. I saw the bag from a mile away. Maybe it was because it was everything I was looking for, maybe it was the Real Gold detailing that sparkled and caught my eye, we'll never know. What I do know is that, it was just what I was looking for. It was similar is the shape of the smaller version of the Louis Vuitton Speedy. I have the Original Speedy 30 (A lot bigger than this one) and it is about 5 years old. I absolutely love carrying it around because it is so light weight and well amazing, but it is getting to the point where I would like to retire it. I want it to be in good condition when I retire it, so that one day I can pass it along to the daughter that I hope to have one day:) This new Henri Bendel handbag was perfect to add to my fall winter handbag collection.

Well of course I could not just browse the handbag sale section. The also had some accessories on sale too. I had been recently looking for a gold tone pendant necklace and they had the perfect one on sale. I got really lucky that day! It was like it was meant to be. Don't you love those kinds of shopping days? The only one that I have that is similar is very old, real gold and Jade and belongs to my mother. And well, its only a matter of time before she asks for it back.

So here is my new Henri Bendel Bag: I hope you love it as much as I do.

Real Gold Detailing on the Mini Circle Studs on the Front and Bag Make it a Real Show Stopper!

Love the Classic Bendel Stripes on the side!

Love the Purple Lining and the Inside Zippered Pocket with a Bow!!
Perfect for you Gloss, Mints, Hand Sani & Moisturizer

Necklace

The Necklace has a movable Clasp so you can make it any length you wish.

Close Up on the Pendant!

It looks really cool when where the necklace at a shorter length and you pull the extra length of the necklace over one side of your neck and it hangs with the cool tassels on the end. Or if you are wearing a low back shirt or dress and the necklace hangs down the back. Divine! It also comes in other pendant colors and the chain also comes in silver tone, but sadly they were not on sale at the time. But I will be watching!

I love wearing this necklace with my new bag. I just love knowing that the Purple Pendant matches the lining of my bag. It makes me feel oh so chic!

Thanks,

SikGlam

Love Prabal Gurung for Target Experience

Love

Prabal Gurung for Target Launch

I was so excited for the Prabal Gurung Launch at Target this February. I have been eagerly awaiting Spring, since this winter has been rough! Just seeing Spring Clothes makes me feel like we are one step closer. I rested up, packed my handbag with the shopping survival essentials, and went to bed very early. I know you got to get the goods, while the getten is good! I was the first lucky lady in my local Target and got to shop in peace.

But this time, I was going to be smart and only buy a few items. I usually go overboard at these launches, blackout, buy the entire line and wear about a third of it. It's not that the clothes are not incredible, its just that theres is not enough time. Or maybe I just need to get out more! Hmmm.

Well, here is what I bought from the Prabal Gurung Launch:

Dress with Full Skirt - Apple Red

I wore this dress already on Valentines Day and it is incredible. The picture does not do it justice. The skirt is so full and it has pockets. Yes I said Pockets!!

Shirt Sleeve Dress - First Date Print

I can not wait to wear this dress this Spring. It has such a cool pattern that it right on trend for SS13. The fit of the dress is so flattering and it feels very well made. It cinches at the waist so the bottom flares out a bit. The Pattern also goes down the back of the dress.

Pleated Skirt - Nolita Print

I bought this skirt for many reasons. It can be made into so many looks. It can be dressed up with a cool blazer or worn laid back with a simple white or black Tee. I love the lace detail on the bottom on the skirt.

Lace Front Blouse - Black

I am a sucker for blouses so I had to get this one. It has lace detail on the upper front and a cool fake leather collar. Perfect to wear right now with my black leather leggings or tucked into a black leather skirt.

Lace Hard Sided Clutch - Yellow &
 Lace Up Pump - Meet the Parents Print

I have never owned a yellow clutch so I could not pass up on this one. It is oh so fabulous! It also has a chain tucked inside so you can wear it two different ways. I got the shoes because well look at them. They are Amazing! They are Lace up Patterned Pumps with a Zipper going up the back of them. Could it get better for Spring!

I hope you enjoyed the pictures of my purchases! I can not wait to wear it all (and I will this time) and take some pictures of the outfits that I put together.

Thanks,

Sik Glam

ALGENIST Firming & Lifting Eye Gel

Algenist Firming & Lifting Eye Gel

My Quest for an Upper Lid Gel is Over!!

I have suffered from upper eyelid puffiness for close to 10 years. There are many products on the market for under eye puffiness but not many for upper eyelid puffiness. I chronically suffer from upper lid puffiness, so I have been searching tirelessly. I sought out the advice of dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and opthomologists. They all told me that there was not much I could do. But try to address the underlying cause. The problem being that there were too many underlying causes. Chronic sinusitis, allergies, inflammation, fluid retention, poor sleep habits, etc.

I even went so far as to consider upper eyelid surgery, a few doctors said I would be a candidate for upper eyelid surgery. But I just could not justify doing the surgery yet at my young age. Putting myself at so much risk. But than the upper eyelid puffiness got worse and it started to affect my vision. My upper eyelids would droop so bad at times it would blur my vision. Luckily, as I made some lifestyle changes, my eyelids now only droop severely several times a year. It usually lasts a few days and than goes away.

I had just about given up my search for an upper eyelid cream that actually helped to depuff and tighten the skin (actually do what it claims) when I came across what I like to call a gift from above.  Algenist Firming and Lifting Eye Gel. I was drawn to this product line after receiving samples of their Regenerative Anti-Aging Moisturizer SPF 20 and Overnight Restorative Cream. I enjoyed both of them. Look for a post about them soon. I used both for a full month.

The Algenist Firming and Lifting eye Gel worked right away and continues to work. It helps to depuff and tighten my upper lid area like no other eye cream or gel ever has. I apply it in the morning and in the evening as part of my skincare regimen. I take one pump of the gel and it is enough to use on both eyes. I pat it gently on the upper eyelid from the brow down to about the crease of the eyelid. The gel also drys fast, which is a plus.

Here's the skinny on it:

It is a lightweight refreshing gel that combines Alguronic Acid & ProPeptide to stimulate synthesis of the skin's key structural proteins, rebuilding the skin's density while firming, tightening, and lifting the delicate skin around the eyes. Eye contours are redefined revealing a recharged and youthful appearance. Alfafla seed extract, lupine protein, caffeine, and chamomile reduce puffiness and soothe skin around the eyes.

The Eye Gel Claims that within 10 days of use:

• The eye area is lifted in 80% of subjects. 
• Skin structure is reinforced in 83% of subjects.

The Eye Gel Claims that within 4 weeks of use:

• Skin elasticity is increase in 90% of subjects.
• The eye area is firmed in 90% of subjects.

These results were obtained using the product twice daily, following a self-assessment of 100 woman.

I could say a few minor things about the gel like it could be more moisturizing. But I won't! I am so thankful for this gel and for the fact that I now have something that actually works, that I would not change a thing about it. I want it for one reason and one reason only. And it works for that reason. Enough said.

Thanks,

Sik Glam

L'Oreal Paris Colour Caresse Wet Shine Stain

L'Oreal Paris Colour Caresse Wet Shine Stain

Could it be??!!  A Lip Stain that actually works as well as the YSL "Glossy  Stains".  

No. 7 Corail Aquatique,17 Encre Rose, 18 Rose Pastelle

I had fallen in love with the YSL Vernis a Levres "Glossy Stains" when they launched last year. I had sought out for years for any lip stain, gloss, stick that would last! The ones that I found that did last somewhat were way too drying for my lips. I had tried all the brands from the Drugstores to the Department Stores and I just gave up! I would laugh and scoff at any advertisement for a long lasting lip color and think to myself "fell for that one too many times".

Than came the hype around the YSL "Glossy Stains" and I just could not stay away for some reason. It has been years since I had even attempted my faint in this area. I took a gamble and purchased one and I was hooked. Not only did it stay on great but it was not drying at all!! I bought two more colors soon after. The colors I purchased are above and swatched below. I will say that I wish No 18 Rose Pastelle was more pigmented and true to color on the lips like the two others. The YSL Glossy Stains come in a range of 20 gorgeous shades.

No. 7 Coral Aquatique,17 Encre Rose, 18 Rose Pastelle

When I was researching Loreal new products for 2013 and I saw they were launching Colour Caresse Wet Shine Stain. I thought maybe they will be like the YSL "Glossy Stains" since L'Oreal owns them. Not only was the packaging a bit similar but so was the applicator. The same odd shaped applicator that makes it oh so fun and precise when applying. I thought this is too good to be true. Could it also work as well? And Yes! Yes it does!

YSL and L'Oreal Applicators
No 18 Rose Pastelle and 182 Pink Perseverance

The Loreal Lip Stain is made up of 30% water (probably why it is not drying) and is combined with light oils to leave a shiny wet look. Just like the YSL.

It works in the same fashion. You can apply up to three coats depending on how much coverage you want. Whether you want it to look like a lipstick, stain or gloss. They come in a range of 12 shade from pale pink to red. I have purchased three now and they are pictured and color swatched below. I will say that like the YSL No 18 Rose Pastelle, I wish the L'Oreal 182 Pink Perseverance was more pigmented and true to color like the other two L'Oreal Stains I bought.

182 Pink Perseverance, 189 Pink Rebellion, 193 Eternally Nude

193 Eternally Nude, 189 Pink Rebellion, 182 Pink Perseverance, 

They are amazing! I always love finding a good drugstore makeup that can give its higher priced version a run for its money. Please go out and buy one! For the price you won't be disappointed!

Thanks,

SikGlam

Best Lip Treatments

Lip Balms 

Oh How I Love Thee...

Let me Count the Ways? 6

The winter is here and it is wreaking havoc on our lip! Isn't it bad enough that is freezing outside and I have to worry about what pair of snow boots are going to go with my outfit. That won't even be seen because it will be hidden underneath my enormous snow parka!!! Ahhh I have been wanting to write this blog for a while. And I got an extra boost to do it when I saw lip balm was trending on twitter. I have always loved lip balms from the Bonne Bell Lip Smackers in root beer flavor to the just plain good old cherry ChapStick.

But now that I am a bit older and wiser, I know that your lips will eventually show signs of aging. I have moved on to bigger and better to prevent that. I will list my top five below and I added an extra one because it is tinted. So that makes a total of 6, because who doesn't love a tinted lip balm!!

     1. Maybelline -  Baby Lips  - A Moisturizing Lip Balm with SPF 20. Based on a clinical study after 4 weeks of use:

• 82% Visibly Less Dry
• 94% Less Rough Lips
• 77% More Supple
• 77% Better Looking Lips

This Lip Balm leaves you lips feeling baby soft and oh so moisturized. I like to get it in the number 19 Peppermint. It goes on clear and tastes so good and the peppermint leaves your breath fresh too. I would have to save that the Baby Lips is probably my absolute favorite Lip Balm for its price and it really does do what it claims. It also comes in a variety of other colors and flavors. They even sometimes come out with limited edition ones. Fabs!

     2.  Fresh Sugar -  Lip Treatment with SPF 15 - This Lip Treatment nourishes, protects, and perfects your lips with a blend of skin softening sugar, moisturizing seed oils, and antioxidant rich vitamins.

I love the smell and taste of this lip treatment. It comes in an easy to use wind up stick and it goes on so smooth and instantly moisturizes. It tastes soo good, like sugar to me. It also comes in a tinted rose color too.

     3. Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour - Lip Protectant Stick SPF 15 - This lip Balm Moisturizes, softens, and smooths your lips. It is also available in a range of sheer shades.

I bought this lip balm because I had previously been using the Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant on my lips that comes in a tube and works fabulously on any dry spot you have on your face and or body. It is Amazing! I wanted to get the formula in a more portable and easy to use form for my lips. I still use my Eight hour cream at night before bed on my lips and around the eye area but I keep this one in my handbag.

     4. Clarins Paris - Extra Firming Lip & Contour Balm - This lip balm visibly repairs and redefines with a rich combination of smoothing raspberry oil and a moisturizing Shea. It will emphasize the sensual fullness of younger looking lips. And who doesn't want that??!!

I am on my third pot of this lip balm. I cannot say that for many lip balm in this price range. Actually this may be the only one. It not only makes my lips feel completely moisturized, but it actually does help to make them feel and appear firmer. I apply in the morning and the evening as part of my beauty regimen. I honestly believe this will be a beauty staple for me for the rest of my life.

     5. Lamer - The Lip Balm - A luxurious and intensely reparative balm formulated with a potent concentration of La Mer's Miracle Broth. This Balm smooths on contact, softens roughness, and helps rejuvenate seriously dry lips.

This is my go to lip balm when I have seriously dry lips. I tend to use this balm when my lips are seriously dry and feel really rough. I also use this one when they feel dehydrated. This is also a good one to use when I am giving myself a nice facial and want a treat. It works on contact, tastes nice, and feels so good on the lips. This lip balm is the priciest of the them all, so I think I will only be purchasing this balm in the winter when my lips are the most dry. Not to say that this balm it is not worth every dollar. It also lasts a long time. One pot should last you throughout the winter!

     6. Korres - Lip Butter in the Color Quince - A rich Lip Balm that leaves the lips deeply moisturized, supple, and kissably soft. These Butters are formulated with natural oils and extracts to soothe and condition lips. They also include Shea butter and rice wax to provide hydration and softness.

I like using the Lip Butter when my lips are feeling slightly dry, but I want to look and feel pretty. My lips might feel too dry for a lipstick or a gloss and need something more moisturizing. I can use my lip butter and still get a pop of color with out drying out my lips more. These Butters come in an array of flavors and colors.

Just remember as we age, so do our lips! Our lips like our decollette can be a dead give away for our age. So lets keep them moisturized. We can take a couple of minutes a day to prevent this by applying lip balm. Hopefully one that is aimed at anti-aging like the Clarins or the Lamer.

Thanks

SikGlam

Covergirl and Olay Concealer Balm - Makeup Meet Skincare

COVERGIRL & OLAY Concealer Balm

Makeup Meet Skincare

I just could not help myself when I was in the store the other day and I saw the advertising for the new COVERGIRL & OLAY Concealer Balm. What got my attention was that it would not tug at the skin as it glided on. Now knowing how fragile and delicate the skin under the eye is, I was buying this for sure!

Color Light/Medium
340 

Love the Lipstick Like Stick Applicator

This New Concealer Balm seemed to me to be genious! The idea that makeup meets skincare. I know this is not a new idea, but one that needs to be advanced. A market that is far from saturated! The balm claims to have a moisture locking formula that leave flawless looking coverage as it glides on. Covering and reducing the look of dark circles, age spots, and redness.

I got the concealer in the color Light Medium 340.  It was a perfect match for my skin.

I used the concealer the following morning and it exceeded my expectations for a drug store concealer that comes in a stick like applicator. It was very smooth and it did glide on my skin. It felt very moisturising underneath the eyes. Even though I still used my eye cream before hand and would recommend always doing so. All I had to do after applying it was gently press the balm with my ring finger (the finger tip with the least pressure) to set it in.

My Final Thoughts:
I love the fact that this concealer has skincare benefits rolled into it. I love the way it applied as the stick's smooth texture glided on. Making it very easy to use and portable. You could easily carry it in your handbag for touch ups during the day. And you would not need any additional brushes to apply. Finally I love the fact that you can get it at your local drugstore up the street at a great price!

Now am I going to replace my beloved Amazing Cosmetics or my Diorskin Nude Hydrating Concealer for this. Of course not! But it is nice to have it on hand for days I am in a hurry and want something fast that is going to work great!

Thanks,

Sik Glam

Philosophy Miracle Worker Neck and Decollete Cream One Month Update

So as Promised, here is my update for the Philosophy Miracle Worker Neck and Decollete Cream.  

I have now been using the cream twice a day (morning and night) for 35 days. I successfully added it into my morning and evening since care regimen. But sadly I see little to no results. The main benefit from the cream that I was hoping to see was a more firmer looking and feeling Neck. My Decollete is not as much of a concern for me at this time. But I still am being proactive so it does not become a concern. Although I will not be repurchasing the cream, it did do some of the things it claims to do.  I will explain below:


 - To help improve the appearance of wrinkles on the neck and décolleté.

(I needed the least amount of help in this area, since I only have fine lines starting to show on my neck and none on my décolleté, I saw no change at all)

 - To help support natural collage and elasticity for firmer-looking skin.

(The Product does contain some form of Vitamin A. It Contains Retinyl Palmitate which is a form of Vitamin A. It is combination of pure retinol and palmitic acid. So perhaps it is slowly supporting my natural collagen growth but my Neck and Decollete did not look or feel firmer.)

- To help brighten and even skin tone for a candlelit finish.

(The Product does leave a nice candlelit finish as it describes. But I could also obtain this by using a illuminating moisturizer, or highlighting the area with a powder.)

- To deeply hydrate and help maximize skin's ability to retain moisture for smoother-looking skin.

(The Cream did hydrate nicely but so does my Face Cream.)

I have decided that I am going to finish up the tube as I want to give it the full chance to give it a fair review. I also feel that the Vitamin A that it contains can be an extra bonus to my skin care routine since I am not using it anywhere else and probably should be. I will do my final update, once I am fully done with the tube. It should be within the next two weeks. I have also attached a picture of my neck when I started the product and one current.

Thanks,

SikGlam

Start of Review

After Using Product for One Month.
A bit of a difference, but not much.

Thanks,

Sik Glam