I’ve tried lots of beauty products throughout my life and they seem to get more sophisticated with time. There’s also an abundance of choices out there and it can get expensive trying out different products before you find the one that works for you. When it comes to beauty products, buying high priced serums and lotions won’t necessarily guarantee results and don’t be fooled by designer brands either. I was recently shopping for a BB cream and found that many products still contain parabens (a type of preservative used in cosmetics that can be harmful). Some products also take longer for it to work so you might quit the product before even seeing the effects which means more money down the drain.
For the spring review, I spent approximately 3-4 weeks trying out these five products.
1. The Tria Age Defying Laser $569
This sounded pretty scary for me since I didn’t really know if I could even trust myself with a laser near my face. I had no idea how complicated or technical this device was when it came to ease of use but I sure was curious to see if it really delivered what it promised. The product has been FDA approved and promises to reverse signs of aging and increase skin radiance.
How it works: The light stimulates your body’s renewal process by regenerating cells and producing collagen. The product also promises visible results in 2 weeks after daily use.
Ease of use: 10/10
I was pleasantly surprised that it was simple to use and took no time at all. You simply slide the laser horizontally over parts of your face until the timer beeps. By day 2, I started using it in bed before I went to sleep while watching TV.
Effectiveness: 8/10
I don’t have any wrinkles (thank goodness) so I couldn’t exactly find out whether it worked in reducing fine lines. However, I did notice that my complexion was smoother after the fourth day. I also used their Age Defying finishing serum and the Super C Brightening Moisturizer which probably added to the overall effectiveness. Overall, I was happy with the results and since it’s pretty easy to use, I’ll probably stick with it.
General thoughts:I’ve never had a laser treatment before or used any kind of laser on my face so I was definitely surprised when I felt a tingling sensation while the device was on. This is fairly normal according to the manual included and by day two I got use to it but it did surprise a novice user like myself.
2. (MUST OWN!) Clarisonic Cleansing Brush and Brightening Solution $265
I’ve always heard such great things about the Clarisonic cleansing system and was so excited to try out this one. Essentially, the Clarisonic brush is a device that gently cleans your skin’s surface. You simply plug it in to charge and you can use it daily or even in the shower. This is great for those who have drier skin and haven’t faired well with harsh exfoliants. The package has a charging stand for the device and even a touch charger which is great if you’re traveling and space is an issue. The package also comes with a skin illuminating cleanser, brightening serum and a skin renewing peel wash.
How it works: The Clarisonic cleansing brush comes with a brush head that’s replaceable (they recommend replacing the brush every 3 months or so). The device has 3 setting for movement intensity. You simply apply your face wash, turn the device on and move it across your face in circles. The product promises to reduce the appearance of dark spots and a more youthful looking skin.
Ease of use: 10/10
This was such a simple device to use I found myself using it all the time. You simply turn it on and go. It didn’t make a mess at all despite what you might think with all the pulsating brush.
Effectiveness: 10/10
Not only did it get all of my makeup off, the brush was so soft that it glided over my face and gave it a gentle massage. I started to see my skin get shinier and my makeup even lasted longer than when I used my hands to wash my face. Here’s a list of 10 ways you might be using your Clarisonic totally wrong so you’re aware of the don’t (s) before buying it.
General thoughts:This product is definitely worth the investment and the designers of this product really had the customer in mind. They thought of everything! Easy use and maximum results.
3. La Prairie Cellular Ice Crystal Eye Cream
This eye cream is fairly new to the market. The most exciting part of the product is its promise to reduce the signs of fatigue and stress. In addition, it will also help erase dark circles, puffiness and dryness.
Ease of use: 10/10
You simply apply and go. The container is also a good size for travel.
Effectiveness: 9/10
When I saw that this product helps reduce the visibility of fatigue, dark circles and puffiness, I was excited to try it. I used it for 4 weeks applying a small amount around my eyes before bed every night. Since I only get puffy eyes and dark circles under my eyes because I either haven’t had enough sleep or pulled a late night working, I didn’t see much of difference. However, around the second week of using the cream, I actually had to pull a late nighter and hoped that the cream will work it’s magic. Sure enough, it worked!
General thoughts: The best thing about this product is a little goes a long way. I use a thin layer around my eyes every night and I’m sure that bottle will last me for a while at that rate. The cream also did not leave an oily film and is light-weight which gives you a renewed feel when you put it on.
4. (MUST OWN!) La Prairie Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Dry Oil
I often experience an oily T-Zone and was excited to see if this product will work for me. The product promises to support the skin’s natural lipid barrier function, seals in moisture, make your skin glow and look smoother.
Ease of use: 10/10
The dry oil comes with a drip pump which actually help you control the amount of product used. You simply put it on and go. I used this one before bed but can also be used under your makeup during the day. The product is sheer and light weight which won’t leave you with a greasy film.
Effectiveness: 10/10
The dry oil was immediately absorbed by my skin and actually made my skin feel instantly smoother. My oily T-Zone actually improved and I was happy that it worked pretty quickly. For a higher price point product, this was worth the money.
General thoughts:When I saw that the La Prairie dry oil serum won the Elle Magazine International 2015 Beauty Awards after trying it, I wasn’t surprised at all. From the bag friendly packaging of the product to the promised results, this one is a must own.
5. La Prairie Anti-Aging Rapid Response Booster
When it comes to anti-aging products, most consumer look for products that deliver fast results. La Priarie’s anti-aging rapid response booster promises just that in two weeks.
Ease of use: 10/10
The topical cream is as easy to use as it can be. Apply to areas where signs of aging are present.
Effectiveness: 9/10
Since I don’t have to worry about wrinkles just yet, I decided to try this product on areas such as my neck and my forehead which looks like it might be problems areas for me. While I did see a slight improvement in terms of fine lines, the most surprising part of it was I started to see results in just a week instead of the two that they quoted. My skin was hydrated and felt lighter.
General thoughts:I would probably use this product as a moisturizer for my skin. Hydration is also said to reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles.
Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier and a fashion and style writer. She is also the author of a blog Style du Jour. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to [email protected].
