Why did I decide to write about Mary Kay cosmetics? I was once a consultant for this company. But when I registered, I knew that I wouldn’t be able to achieve any results as a salesperson. I bought cosmetics for myself and my girlfriends also ordered a little. From personal long-term experience, I will say that I do not like all Mary Kay cosmetics. I will only write about those products that I have personally used.
Sorry for the quality of the photos and the appearance of the cosmetics, as they have been in use for a long time. I don’t like reviews written as soon as I open the tube. Prices are current as of 11/01/2018.
TimeWise moisturizing cream for dry and normal skin. Review
This was my first purchase - TimeWise® Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Dry to Normal Skin. Like the entire series, the cream is in a soft pink tube, the box contains instructions in many languages, including Russian.
The pink stripe on the tube means for dry and normal skin. Purple (I don’t have this one) – for oily and combination skin.
The cream is absorbed very quickly and does not leave any traces on the skin. My skin is very dry, sometimes I had to apply the cream to my face twice at a time. Does not leave a filmy feeling on the face. After application, the skin feels moisturized. The texture resembles a delicate white-cream milk. Almost odorless. It was perfect for me as a makeup base. The foundation (also Mery Kay) goes on smoothly, and the powder is also easy to apply. Doesn't roll up, doesn't gather. I have been using this cream for several years now. I tried to change it to creams from other manufacturers, but I kept returning back to Mary Kay. It really fights fine lines and wrinkles. When replacing the cream, the wrinkles appeared more pronounced. As soon as I returned to Mary Kay, the situation changed for the better. Since my facial skin is very dry, one tube lasts me at most 5-6 months, when using it only as a day cream.
From the manufacturer:
- The cream fights the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of skin aging and increases its elasticity.
- It provides the necessary moisture balance, hydrating the skin for 10 hours and leaving it soft and smooth.
- The formula contains new generation antioxidants that fight free radicals that cause the aging process.
The volume of this cream is 88 ml
Retail price 1300 rubles.
What we bought for is what we sell for.
The brand positions itself not as a mass market product; rather, it is elite or professional cosmetics. In any case, the prices in the 2016 catalog are really higher than those of their analogues from other mass market manufacturers:
Name | price, rub. |
Oil-free eye makeup remover | 900 |
Hand skin care system Satin Hands® “Peach” | 2080 |
True Dimensions™ Lipstick | 870 |
Velocity® For Him Eau de Toilette | 1740 |
TimeWise® Miracle Kit™ system for combination to oily skin | 4950 |
Skinvigorate™ Deep Cleansing Facial Brush | 3200 |
Skinvigorate brush
As for negative conversations, they are in no way the basis for an objective opinion about the company. However, they also have an undoubted advantage - they attracted even more attention to the famous brand.
And clients around the world, of whom there are plenty, note completely different sides of the coin:
- Justdoit: “Oddly enough, but, remembering the contents of my cosmetics and care bag over the years, it turned out that I often see products from Mary Kay in them. Although I don’t consider myself a particular connoisseur of the brand (especially online brand).
- Olya_Vesna: “My aunt has been using this cosmetics for 5-7 years. And her facial skin looks luxurious (although she, as they say, is well over 40).”
Timewise for oily and combination skin
Detailed instructions for using Estelle eyebrow dye can be found in the article.
TimeWise radiant foundation. Review
TimeWise foundation for dry and normal skin also suited me very well. The texture of the cream is liquid, but not very liquid, it is easy to apply. It lays down evenly, does not roll down, and the tone is natural. But I will say that I didn’t find my ideal tone right away. In the summer I use a shade 1-2 shades higher, since after a summer tan the skin color changes a little and, for example, the ivory tone 4 or 5 no longer suits the tone of the face after tanning. In the summer I use ivory 6 or beige 1. I’ll tell you a little secret, to get a perfectly even tone, I use the “ 3 in 1 TimeWise Cleanser ” or any other skin scrub that suits your skin type.
Why is the foundation called radiant? It contains microscopic particles that really shine on the face. It’s not like glitter, the shine is light, barely noticeable, like on models from magazine covers, I would even say close to professional foundations. The tone lasts throughout the day, but leaves marks on clothes. This is the only negative that I found in this foundation. I’ve also been using it for a very long time, about 5-6 years. And I don’t want to change for another. The shelf life is long, I can’t say for sure (2-3 years). One tube lasts me about 2 years.
From the manufacturer:
- Enjoy flawlessly even skin tone and anti-aging care all day long with TimeWise® Illuminating Foundation.
- The formula is enriched with vitamin E and a patented complex of collagen-forming peptides that make wrinkles and age lines less noticeable, leaving skin looking younger, firmer and full of life.
- The product gives the skin a feeling of hydration throughout the day.
- Available in a wide range of shades that retain their original color throughout the day.
Volume 29 ml.
Retail price 900 rubles.
Everyday charm from Mary Kay
Pure beauty, nude or facial design that does not leave the impression of “plaster” is today an ideal option for every day. The transformation consists of several stages:
- applying mineral powder first to the T-zone, then to other areas;
- shaping eyebrows using a pencil whose shade matches the natural one;
- eyelid treatment: the lightest shimmering shade of shadow is applied to the inner corner of the eye and under the eyebrow, a more saturated neutral color is applied to the moving eyelid, the corner can be slightly highlighted with dark paint;
- the next step is mascara or eyelash base, creating the effect of a wet eye;
- to emphasize the cheekbones and shape the oval of the face, a stroke is made under the bone with bronzing powder, and blush is placed on the protruding part; the final stage is neutral lipstick from Mary Kay or lip gloss.
Discover maximum colors with the L'Oreal hair dye palette here.
Casual look
Delicate skin, glowing eyes - what is not an indicator of a beautiful and happy woman! And if such attractiveness depends on makeup, then it needs to be created using the company’s products.
All products applied to the face must be shaded; there should be no sudden changes in colors. In this case, movements begin from the center towards the edge of the face or eye.
Professional hair dye Brelil will help you easily change your image.
Velocity men's eau de toilette
If your loved one has gray hair, then read about hair dyes for men. Women's curls will look chic with Concept hair dye.
Mary Kay TimeWise Firming Eye Cream. Review
Also one of my favorite remedies. Like the entire series, the tube is soft pink in color, with a dispenser. What the manufacturer claims is really true. It significantly reduces facial wrinkles around the eyes, they become less noticeable, and sometimes they are not visible at all. The circles under the eyes are reduced.
The texture is delicate, easy to apply, the color of the cream is white, with a barely noticeable tint of milky. I applied it only at night or in the morning, when I did not use decorative cosmetics. It seems to me that applying this cream and then covering it with foundation is not correct, this is my personal opinion. In the morning, rushing to work, getting the children ready, there is no time to wait for it to be completely absorbed. I've been using it for about 2-3 years, and I'm happy with the results. The only negative is the price and it doesn’t last long for me, I can’t say for sure, about 4 months. A small nuance: after the cream runs out, do not rush to throw away the tube, open it and you will receive a bonus + for another 3-4 uses.
From the manufacturer:
- You can't change the texture of the skin around your eyes, but proper care can help combat wrinkles, dryness and other signs of skin aging.
- TimeWise® firming eye cream fights all signs of age-related skin changes and helps maintain expressiveness in your eyes and freshness for a long time.
Volume 14 g.
Retail price 1950 rubles.
Those scary "hormones"
Despite the undoubted success of the product, it has recently received a barrage of criticism. The reason for this was the reviews of women who used Mary Kay products and were dissatisfied with the skin reaction.
The essence of all negative comments comes down to two points, due to which there was talk about the presence of hormones in the composition of products:
- potential addiction and withdrawal effect, when the result appears almost instantly and also quickly goes away after stopping the use of cosmetics, and the appearance of the skin can deteriorate many times;
- allergic reactions, manifested in rashes, pimples, swelling and requiring long-term treatment.
The problem is that there is a substitution of concepts. Hormones can be called any biologically active substance in a person, animal or plant, says endocrinologist, doctor of medical sciences Valentin Fadeev.
Satin Hands
This means that it is not surprising that plant extracts contain certain active components, which can be called phytohormones or sometimes phytoestrogens. However, their safety for humans has long been proven.
In order not to succumb to mass hysteria, you need to understand that products are certified both in the United States and in all countries where they are sold. Of course, the use of serious classical hormones with a bunch of side effects is prohibited.
There is an important point that you should pay attention to before you start using new products. It is better to check any composition in advance on the wrist or elbow, because it is almost impossible to predict individual allergies.
A consultant who is obliged not to act according to the “just to sell” method, but to actually find products depending on the needs of the skin, must be a professional. And finally, you should never rush and buy the first cream you come across that promises wonderful rejuvenation, because it’s not for nothing that the manufacturer publishes the composition of the tube and recommendations for it.
evening make-up
A coffee hair mask will help restore shine and strength to your curls.
Mary Kay Soothing Eye Gel. review
Mine is an old acquisition. The glass jar is small, only 11 ml. The gel is delicate, transparent, light turquoise in color. I bought it on the advice of a friend (she praised it very much) and regretted it.
I didn't like him. Firstly, after applying it to the eyelids and under the eyes, it felt like they were covered with a sticky film; it took a long time to absorb. The manufacturer states that it can be applied over decorative cosmetics. I tried it, the result was sad, the sticky layer on the eyelids and under the eyes didn’t look very good and I felt discomfort. I tried to apply it before decorative cosmetics, the result was the same. Since it didn’t suit me (unlike my friend) and I practically didn’t use it, I can’t say about the result and effectiveness. Only when I started writing a review did I read that it can be used as a mask and immediately ran to apply it. I didn’t see any effect from just one use. After applying it I want to wash it off.
From the manufacturer:
- A cooling, soothing gel containing plant extracts designed to tone, strengthen the skin and reduce puffiness around the eyes.
- Quickly and radically relieves the eyes from the consequences of overwork.
- Creates a feeling of coolness and comfort and increases skin hydration.
- Can be used as a mask, cream and refresher on top of decorative cosmetics.
Volume 11 ml.
Retail price 980 rubles.
Beauty palette
Back in the 60s, Mary used creams that she bought from a girl she knew. The products were made by a friend’s father, a tanner, according to his own recipes from his working solutions. It was these compounds, later purchased from the owners, that formed the basis of the first products of the global corporation.
Bi-phase eye makeup remover
Of course, since then technology has changed beyond recognition, and the range has grown significantly. Everyone ordered Mary Kay shadows, as well as other cosmetics. But the emphasis on uniqueness remains the same. Today the brand offers several original lines:
- Facial care. A full range of products: cleansing, moisturizing, fighting wrinkles, in the form of gels, creams, masks - more than 60 items for different skin types. For example, the serum for dark circles and puffiness under the eyes from the TimeWise series has an almost instant effect and can be a real salvation after a sleepless night.
- Body care. In addition to the usual hygiene gels and lotions, the series includes sunscreen preparations, hand and pedicure kits. The top seller is the Lotus and Bamboo body spray, which combines the functions of a deodorant and a refreshing perfume.
- For men. There are several types of eau de toilette and various personal care products available here. Interestingly, not only shaving products have been created for the stronger half of humanity, but also creams and cleansing compositions.
- Makeup. Decorative cosmetics are incredibly diverse. There is probably no girl who cannot choose the perfect lipstick color or original nail polish. Often, Max Factor foundation will be replaced with a product from Mary Kay, since the range of these products is very wide. Moreover, the line is constantly updated with new developments, such as the “Golden Gloss” gel eyeliner, which combines 2 fashionable shades in one package.
- Perfumery. Fragrances are divided into several categories such as oriental, woody and others. Fruity and floral water Thinking of You has become especially popular, setting the mood for a romantic mood.
- Gift Baskets. The company cares not only about each client, but also about their loved ones. Specialized kits, perfumes or cosmetic tools will be a great incentive for a warm relationship.
“We improve the lives of women around the world,” is Mary Kay's motto. We are talking not only about possible income, but also about the long-term fight against domestic violence against children and their mothers.
Find out whether Pupa cosmetics are worthy of women's attention here.
Skin care
To maintain freshness and youth for many years, use cosmetic facial oils instead of creams.
Mary Kay Lash Intensity Mascara. Review
I got the mascara as a bonus. In a beautiful promising package. Mascara is only black, there are no other colors in the Mary Kay catalogue.
When I first used the mascara, I thought it was a bit runny (usually new mascaras are always runny). I can’t say that I didn’t like it at all, 50 to 50. It increases the volume; the more layers on the eyelashes, the thicker they look. It lengthens, but obviously not by 84% (as the manufacturer claims). The mascara is easy to apply, does not clump, does not fall off, and lasts throughout the day.
From the manufacturer:
- Achieve incredibly voluminous, endlessly long lashes with the new Lash Intensity™ mascara.
- Impressive results: increases volume by 200% (Based on an independent clinical study in which two coats of mascara were applied), lengthens by 84%* to the ends.
- The mascara creates the effect of false eyelashes with the first stroke of the brush.
- The exclusive Double Impact™ brush is designed specifically for Mary Kay®'s most volumizing mascara.
- Rich pigment gives eyelashes a deep black color.
- So long and thick. Your eyelashes are the most expressive.
Volume: 9 g.
Retail price 1080 rubles.
Mary Kay NouriShine Plus Lip Gloss. Review
In principle, I don’t like lip glosses at all, only because they are sticky and my hair tends to stick to my lips. But I liked this shine. The texture of the gloss is soft, delicate, lies evenly on the lips, does not flow, does not spread around the lips. It looks very good on the lips, the shine exceeded all expectations. Lasts a long time. But there is one downside, it's sticky though
From the manufacturer:
- Maximum comfort with maximum shine! The super-light formula adds shine to lips, moisturizes and softens them. And no sticky feeling on your lips!
- Instant hydration.
- Soft, protected lips.
- Dazzling radiance of various shades.
- Ingredients that provide protection and care.
- Ideally placed in a case for decorative cosmetics.
Volume: 4.5 ml
Retail price 750 rubles.
Mary Kay Mineral Loose Powder. Review
Mineral Loose Powder is an excellent powder! I don’t use powder very often, since my skin is already dry, but sometimes it’s simply necessary. The powder is loose, delicate, easy to apply, lays down evenly, easy to shade, the main thing is to choose the right tone. Many people do not like it because of the packaging, as it is easy to spill if you do not use it correctly. After opening the powder, turn the strainer so that the holes open. Close, gently shake the powder a couple of times, then open the lid and tighten the strainer again. It is better to keep the strainer closed so that all the powder does not end up on the surface of the strainer. At first I was uncomfortable, but since the powder evoked only positive emotions in me, I got used to it and now I can’t imagine life without it. By the way, the powder lid is a mirror; mine, of course, is already pretty tattered. My powder is 2 years old, its expiration date is about to expire, but it still doesn’t expire. The powder brush is also from Mary Kay.
From the manufacturer:
- Mary Kay® Mineral Loose Powder protects skin from environmental damage and evens out skin tone. This makes the powder an excellent base for makeup.
- The weightless texture is easily applied to the skin, making it perfectly smooth, masking wrinkles and imperfections.
- The mineral formula controls shine and provides a matte finish that lasts all day.
- The coverage density can be adjusted, easily blending the powder with a brush and creating a flawless look.
Volume 8 g.
Retail price 830 rubles.
What is the Mary Kay peeling system?
We already know that peeling is used to remove dead particles from the surface of the skin to enable young cells to provide functional balance. Ideally, our body gets rid of such “ballast” on its own. But over time and under the influence of external and internal factors, this function is somewhat impaired and it is necessary to help the epidermis - to cleanse it “forcibly”.
The Mary Kay Time Weiss facial peeling system is positioned as a universal remedy for carrying out the procedure at home. Or rather, a set of tools, since the kit includes two components:
- the first provides high-quality, gentle exfoliation of the top layer;
- the second tightens pores, soothes the skin, and gives it freshness.
Manufacturers claim that Mary Kay's renewing peeling can show excellent results after the first use. The face becomes soft, fresh, elastic, devoid of any visible defects. In addition, high-quality hydration, nutrition and stimulation of internal processes are guaranteed. The instructions say that (quote): “The peeling procedure enhances the division of cells in the basal layer, as a result of which the skin becomes smooth, its tone is evened out, and it takes on a more youthful and healthy appearance.”
This is where the first question arises. The basal layer can be involved in regeneration processes only during a deep cleaning procedure (this, for a minute, is a stationary manipulation, performed only by experienced specialists). And Mary Kay facial peeling is superficial. Food for thought.
Manufacturers recommend (which is quite natural) to use only a complex of products. It is in this case that a good result and the absence of side effects are guaranteed, since the products are selected in a balanced composition and complement each other’s actions.
Mary Kay Transparent Loose Powder. Review
I also purchased this amazing powder. It is more suitable for those who have an ideal complexion, or closer to it. I have freckles in the spring, sometimes even foundation is difficult to cope with. The texture is the same as mineral loose powder (review above). It gives a great matte finish to the face. But I didn’t like it and I gave it to my sister. She liked it more, since nature only blessed me with freckles.
From the manufacturer:
- It's not so easy to choose the shade of powder that suits your skin tone perfectly. Transparent powder will save you from searching and help your skin look natural. Due to the absence of pigment, the powder gives the skin a natural glow while remaining completely invisible
- A universal shade that is suitable for any color and skin type.
- Light-diffusing properties help visually smooth out wrinkles and hide minor skin imperfections.
- Creates a natural glow effect.
- Eliminates oily shine, mattifies the skin without making it pale.
- Helps maintain natural makeup throughout the day.
- Light velvety texture allows the skin to breathe.
Volume 8 g.
Retail price 800 rubles.
Who is suitable for Mary Kay peeling?
The instructions for use indicate that Mary Kay peeling is a universal product for women aged 35+ and is suitable for all skin types. The only contraindication for use is individual intolerance to any of the components of the drug. Therefore, we consider the composition in detail:
- Aluminum oxide microcrystals promote skin renewal, exfoliate and remove dead cells;
- Persian silk oak and soybean bark extracts strengthen the structure of the epidermis and tighten pores;
- extracts of sea corals and evodia fruits soothe the skin after peeling;
- Green tea extract is an antioxidant. Protects against the harmful effects of external factors, slows down the aging process;
- lavender extract tones and nourishes the skin, promotes regeneration processes;
- cardamom extract – antiseptic, tonic;
- apple extract – universal. Mattifies, whitens, nourishes, provides vitamins and minerals, moisturizes, protects;
- Raspberry extract acts similarly to apple extract. Supplies cells with nutrients, vitamins and mineral compounds necessary for functioning.
Based on the composition, we can conclude that Mary Kay chemical peeling is an excellent product for home use, which is in no way inferior to branded products at higher prices.
Reading such an exquisite list of all-natural ingredients, you are simply moved. In fact - only benefit. But when you find the expiration date, question No. 2 immediately arises - what is added to the product if it can be stored for at least 3 years from the date of manufacture?! Indeed, for natural ingredients with the addition of safe preservatives, it does not exceed (according to the generally accepted standard) 1 year.
Mary Kay ChromaFusion eyeshadow. Review
Mary Kay's eyeshadow palette is varied. I purchased different shadows, shimmery and matte. And everyone impressed me. Easy to apply, soft, does not crumble. Continue throughout the day. The shadows are very small, only 1.4 g, but they last a long time. I use the Expresso color instead of an eyebrow pencil, it applies just as easily and lasts all day. Each color comes separately on a metal backing in individual plastic packaging. It’s not very convenient to use in this form, so I also purchased “ Mini Case for Mary Kay® Decorative Cosmetics (sold empty).” In the photo on the right, the top row is eyeshadow, the bottom row is blush.
From the manufacturer:
- Live brightly with our stunning eyeshadows.
- Whatever is on your agenda, you can create the perfect look for the day to suit the times and occasion.
- Mary Kay Chromafusion™ Matrix technology.
- Resistance up to 12 hours in all situations.
- Rich matte and shimmer shades, specially selected by leading makeup artists.
Volume 1.4 g.
Retail price 400 rubles.
"Woman of the Century"
The entire history of one of the most popular brands of our time is based on the personal success of its founder, Mary Kay Ash. The mother of three children, left alone after a divorce, got a job in a direct sales company. Having taken from there the necessary experience and knowledge, in 1963 this woman invested her family savings in her own business selling cosmetics.
From the very beginning, the company's structure was based on the direct sales method, when there are no retail stores, and the buyer is in direct contact with a company representative. Avon, Oriflame, and Amway work using the same method.
Decorative cosmetics
Just 6 years after the opening of the first office in Dallas (Texas, USA), construction of a plant began in the same city, whose cosmetics are still exported to Europe and Russia. In addition, over the years of the company’s existence, its property has been supplemented by another enterprise in China and contract manufacturing in the UK, Germany, Italy and other countries.
Strictly speaking, international success began in 1971 with the opening of a representative office in Australia, and the brand appeared in Russia in 1993. Now the products are present in 35 countries around the world.
In 2001, Mary Kay Ash passed away, leaving behind a huge family corporation. Over the years, she has achieved many accomplishments, including being the only woman featured in Forbes' Greatest Success Stories of All Time, Texas Woman of the Century, and Lifetime Television's Most Outstanding Female Entrepreneur by Lifetime Television and Baylor University of Texas. The brand she founded is the winner of many awards in the United States and the initiator of several charitable events and foundations.
In 2008, the company's turnover exceeded $2 billion in wholesale prices, and today its representatives already include more than 3.5 million people.
Find out more about Lierak pharmacy cosmetics here.
True Dimensions Lipstick
Affordable prices, decent quality - Max Factor cosmetics.
Mini case for Mary Kay makeup (sold empty). Review
The case is convenient, with a mirror. There are two sections: the top one with a magnet for decorative cosmetics, the bottom one for brushes. Mary Kay's decorative cosmetics are all on a metal backing for magnetizing them to the cases. Cases used to come in different sizes. Currently only mini cases are presented in the catalog. My mini case holds: 6 shadows, or 3 shadows and blush, or 1 compact powder.
From the manufacturer:
- Ideal for minimalists, fill it with your favorite mineral eyeshadow and blush shades for a natural-looking finish. Place Mary Kay® Mineral Compact Powder in it, which will allow your skin to maintain its ideal appearance for a long time.
- Fits even in a pocket or the smallest handbag.
- Hidden compartment for brushes and applicators and built-in mirror.
- Resistant to scratches and damage.
Retail price 720 rubles.
RESULT
The cosmetics are good, the quality justifies the price. I have been using it for a very long time, for more than 6 years. I have tried a huge number of products presented in the Mary Kay catalogue, some have already been discontinued. I will supplement this article, namely:
- Skinvigorate Deep Cleansing Brush Mary Kay (+/-)
- Mary Kay TimeWise 3-in-1 cleanser (+)
- Anti-aging moisturizer with SPF 30 TimeWise Mary Kay (-)
- Mary Kay wipes with mattifying effect (+)
- Mary Kay TimeWise facial peeling system (+/-)
- Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover (+)
- And much more.
Mary Kay official website: link
Stages of facial skin care
The first stage in care is cleansing. In the evening, you should cleanse your face of decorative cosmetics, dirt and dust. If you have noticed, after cleaning, say, in the evening in the apartment, in the morning there is dust on the furniture. Therefore, you should cleanse your face in the morning because dust settles on the face, clogging the pores, which can lead to acne. As a beauty consultant, I recommend cleansing your skin with the Skinvigorate Deep Cleansing Brush. It is 85% more effective than hand washing and can be used with any cleanser. Thanks to the massage, all other creams will work better.
Then you need to remove the dead layer. Skin cells tend not only to renew themselves, but also to die under the influence of various natural conditions. The exfoliation function is performed by masks and scrubs. They should be used two to three times a week.
After exfoliation, you can begin toning to restore the pH balance of the skin.
The fourth step is skin moisturizing.
When carrying out the above stages of care, vitamins and useful minerals enter the skin, and the water balance is restored.
The fifth mandatory step in the morning is protection. Sun rays, poor health or illness have a merciless effect on our skin, causing pigmentation and dryness.
Mary Kay has developed several skin care systems. They are divided into age groups and skin types. The range also includes products for each stage of care separately. We should not forget that working with facial skin requires a systematic approach. There is no magic in this case. This is constant work. You need to allocate up to five minutes for yourself in the morning and evening.
It is important to apply creams and tonics to the skin correctly. All cosmetics are applied along the massage lines of the face, on the nose from top to bottom, and under the eyes towards the nose. All excess cosmetics are removed with a napkin by blotting. Incorrect application can not only neutralize the desired effect, but also lead to negative results.