sample reviews, pt 1

I accumulated a number of samples from one-too-many shopping sprees at Sephora, Skinfood, and Sasa (funny how they all start with "s"). So it's time for another set of reviews!

a) Kate Somerville

ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

Marketed as Kate Somerville's top selling product, the ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment promises to clarify skin by removing dead skin cells and killing bacteria. The price certainly matches the promised result: $19 for a 0.5 oz bottle, $85 for a 2 oz bottle, or $175 for a 5 oz bottle. But does the product deliver? The formula is very strong; according to the directions, you only need to leave it on for 1-2 minutes. The moment I applied the product to my skin, I could feel the enzymes start to work. There was some irritation and redness that lasted 15 minutes after the treatment. However, the product worked like a miracle: in just one application, ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment completely rid my blackheads and whiteheads, smoothed my complexion, and even lightened some bothersome dark spots! I couldn't be more delighted with a product! My only issue is the price: ExfoliKate products are expensive and don't last very long.
My rating: ★★★★

b) Advanced Home Active
Brazilian Peel

I'm embarrassed to say that I never heard of a Brazilian peel before I received this product. A Brazilian wax, sure, but what's a Brazilian peel? As it turns out, the Brazilian Peel is a brand of medical-strength chemical peel that's safe to use at home. The Brazilian Peel comes at a hefty price: $78 for 4 applications. So I immediately jumped on a chance to try this product free. And I absolutely love it! The peel cleared my complexion and tightened my pores without any discomfort/redness/irritation. Perfect for people with sensitive skin!
My rating: ★★★★

c) Skinfood

Grape Seed Oil Body Shower Gel

Since I'm a fan of Korean products, I couldn't wait to try more products from Skinfood. The Skinfood Grape Seed Oil Body Shower Gel is part of the Grape Seed Oil line, which includes creams, emulsions, foams, and gels. The shower gel contains grape seed oil, a great source of vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids. It works like a regular shower gel -- just lather and rinse off. To be honest, I didn't notice anything special about this product. The grade seed oil smelled very nice, but scent isn't a major selling point for me when it comes to cleansing products. Considering the price and limited availability (unless you happen to live in Korea), I'd pass on this one.
My rating: ★★

d) Skinfood

Agave Cactus Serum

I was excited to try Skinfood's Agave Cactus Serum since I heard good reviews about this product. I've have mostly positive experiences with Skinfood's products, and this was no different. The serum has anti-wrinkling and whitening properties. While I can't speak of the former since I don't have any wrinkles yet, I can confirm that the serum brightened my skin and gave my face a nice, subtle glow.
My rating: ★★★✰

 Stay tuned for part 2!