Can you really bargain for beauty? Forget what it promises on the label, iMag turned to real women for the real scoop on drugstore beauty products. If you want smooth skin, silky hair and a flawless face check out the best of beauty on a budget from our iMag fans.
1. SKIN EFFECTS CELL 2 CELL CONTINUOUS ACTION ANTI-WRINKLE CARE
LABEL SAYS: Skin Effects™ by Dr. Jeffrey Dover is the first dermatologist-developed anti-aging line that is effective, simple, affordable and conveniently available. This penetrating treatment with Dermaxyl Complex and nano-sphere technology delivers a controlled release of ingredients within the skin's surface to provide immediate and long-term results. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles and helps to fortify skin making your skin look better, stronger and healthier.
SHOPPER SAYS: I really liked the Skin Effects Cell 2 Cell Anti-wrinkle cream. When I would get out of the shower in the mornings I would apply it to my face and neck. The cream has a very light consistency and goes on the skin evenly. It’s not oily and actually makes my skin feel refreshed, as if you just splashed water on your face. Throughout the weeks I noticed that my complexion improved. The dark circles under my eyes looked a little lighter and my skin has become REALLY smooth. All in all, I would give this product an 8 out of 10 and would recommend it to others.
WHERE TO BUY: Exclusively sold at CVS/pharmacy
PRICE: $15.99
2. YES TO CARROTS C LOVES YOUR HAIR PAMPERING CARROT JUICE SHAMPOO & C IS FOR CONDITIONER PAMPERING HAIR MUD CONDITIONER
SHAMPOO LABEL SAYS: There has never been a more delicious treat for your locks than C Loves your Hair Pampering Carrot Juice Shampoo. It cleanses, nourishes and moisturizes the hair and scalp with 26 minerals and trace elements. The key ingredients organic carrot, sweet potato and pumpkin are potent anti-oxidants that cleanse and moisturize the hair.
CONDITIONER LABEL SAYS: Ideal for smoothing and taming even the most wayward hair. The key ingredients Dead Sea Minerals purify and Camomile soothes and moisturizes your hair
SHOPPER SAYS: I really love it and the way it smells! The shampoo and conditioner were both generous sizes, which was a plus. The shampoo at first I was weary about because it is not thick – I was worried it wouldn’t lather well. But, it did lather quite well! The conditioner is very thick and it moisturized well. I need a good conditioner for tangles and it definitely did the trick! I was able to easily get a comb through after using about a quarter-sized amount. I think the two bottles will last me over a month, which is nice! Very shiny, very nice – overall A++ rating!
WHERE TO BUY: Walgreens, Duane Reade and online at yestocarrots.com.
PRICE: $7.99 (shampoo)/$7.99 (conditioner)
3. RoC® MULTI-CORREXION™ EYE TREATMENT:
LABEL SAYS: Formulated with pure RoC® Retinol, antioxidants vitamins C and E, and moisturizing emollients that work to smooth fine lines, reduce wrinkles and deliver a firm and brighter look to the delicate skin around the eyes.
SHOPPER SAYS: RoC has been inducted into my daily beauty routine. The eye cream helps keep my eyes moisturized and noticeably brighter. If this eye experience is any indication to how well this product works I can’t wait to try other RoC items.
WHERE TO BUY: August 2008 at drugstores nationwide (CVS, Duane Reade, Walgreens, Rite Aid, etc.)
PRICE: $24.99
4. 24.7 MINERALS ANTI-AGING MINERAL MAKEUP GET STARTED FACE KIT
LABEL SAYS: 24.7 Minerals® is the first of its kind, a groundbreaking fusion of superior mineral ingredients and the anti-aging benefits of 24.7 Skincare® products. With its unique GABA complex, 24.7 Minerals® makeup formulations instantly create a perfect, natural, flawless look, while nourishing, hydrating, protecting and restoring skin’s youthful look with immediate benefits.
SHOPPER SAYS: The kit is well worth the money. It’s easy, quick and it made my skin more even and I felt younger looking. I definitely would use it again.
WHERE TO BUY: Exclusively sold at CVS/pharmacy
PRICE: $39.99
5. YES TO CARROTS C ME SMILE LIP BUTTER
LABEL SAYS: Lip Butter is super nourishing, conditioning and 95% organic. It contains extracts from certified organic fruits and vegetables and paraben-free.
SHOPPER SAYS: I chose the “berry” scent which I love because it smells great and doesn’t have a color tint, which is great when you are just looking for a lip balm. It definitely feels like it’s hydrating/protecting my lips, and doesn’t go on too heavy or thick. I am also a fan since it’s organic.
WHERE TO BUY: Walgreens, Duane Reade and online at yestocarrots.com.
PRICE: $3.69 each
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