Welcome to Helen Avery! 🌟 These are my honest, comprehensive reviews on everything from makeup to art.
I am a career creative and while my focus is shifting towards visual arts, I still love sharing reviews on lifestyle topics like beauty and skincare. Expect a blend of content that caters to both your art and lifestyle loves.
What You’ll Find Here: Art Supply Reviews: Honest evaluations of watercolor, embroidery, and other art tools. Tutorials & Tips: Techniques and advice to enhance your creative projects. Lifestyle Reviews: Occasional insights into beauty, skincare, and lifestyle products.
I know that these vlog-style videos are a lot of work for you so I appreciate the labor that went into this one. Eek! I loved this video so much, where do I start? I really enjoyed the walk around the neighborhood, and the subtle nod to the changing seasons without the pumpkin spice of it all. And I’m very happy to hear the health update. 🎉
Ah thank you for the recognition of the effort! I don't know how these vloggers do it who are editing daily, it's a marathon. It was my pleasure though, these are my favourite videos to make as they really immerse you in your own life and make you appreciate all the things (especially visual) that you take for granted. I actually had to stop and consider how long it might be for the leaves to totally turn colour, which I would not have done if I weren't discussing it for you all. Have a great week Rifat, I appreciate your feedback on this one!
Man....I am SO ready for fall.... I am in Northern California, and we have a stint of triple-digit heat hitting us for a couple days this week. SO over it. Thank you for uploading this, and CONGRATULATIONS on your health update!!!
My pleasure, Danielle, this was fun to make for you all. The heat gets tiresome, I totally agree! And thank you for the kind congrats, tonight is my LAST ONE! 🙌🏻
Hit that LIKE Button 👍🏻and SUBSCRIBE, I'd love to see you around here! No Pumpkin Spice Lattes were harmed in the making of this video. All makeup, Merit Beauty muse.meritbeauty.com/helen6jc (Merit Great Skin Serum, Moisturizer, Flush Balm in Cheeky, Day Glow Balm in Bounce, Signature Lipstick in Power) Tutorial is @crystaltanart Watercolor Tutorial (Protea) Aevo Milk Frother (Now Called Froth Labs) ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-9jCfROx5nd8.html Cosori Black Insulated Kettle ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-9jCfROx5nd8.html New Balance shoes: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-9jCfROx5nd8.html
Finally had a chance to watch this video. So while the first video the algorithm showed me was a hair loss/rogaine one, I've stayed through all the changes of content and format. I think your reviews and beauty content are informative and helpful but I'm here for your insights and perspectives on everyday life. You represent a certain kind of thoughtful, professional woman, who happens to be a mom as well, who leads the kind of life many of us can relate to--we're trying to find what brings us joy after years of devoting time to our careers and family. Whatever you choose to do, I support it and will be here for it!
Rifat, you've been with me every step of the way on this topsy turvy RU-vid odyssey and have been totally ride or die, and I can't tell you how much that has meant, and continues to mean to me! The internet can be full of poison, but this is one facet of it that I treasure--our friendship and connection. Thank you for distilling this, it's incredibly meaningful for me to see how you (and others) see my work because I hadn't quite considered it through the lens of being relatable and maybe even wise? I'm so glad we are on this journey together. Sending a huge hug, as always!
Hi Helen! I joined your channel some time ago while I was searching reviews for Kerastase products. And here I found you! I subscribed to your channel immediately after that! I am from Romania, but living in Austria, have a 5 yo daughter, husband, cat, clown fishes and a Gecko.😊 I am 35yo. Love your personality and I do find you charismatic and very beautiful! I can only wish to look like you when I will have your age. Please ignore the trolls! Sendig you love and peace ❤ P.S. your hair is stunning!
Hi!! Oh this all makes me so happy to hear, thank you for telling me about your lovely family and even your household full of pets, I loved learning that. I've been to Austria on my European backpacking trip a million years ago when I was in university and it was gorgeous! I dream of returning. Very kind and thoughtful words, I appreciate them and I appreciate you! Sending love from Toronto :)
Ugh. I hate how quality for so many houses these days have gone downhill. I returned 3 LV bags for this reason. Uneven stitching, canvas uneven. So sad
It didn't seem to? I really can't tell any difference and I wonder if some of the reformulation was just hyping up ingredients that didn't really change anything in terms of wear. Personally if they hadn't changed the packaging I wouldn't have known the difference.
@@HelenAvery thank you! It’s just i’ve had trust issues with the skincare reformulations, the infallible for example, I loved the old formula almost as good as the Estee Lauder, but I didn’t like the new one with niacinamide, it creases a lot and fading on my nose about couple of hours, that’s why I’m stucked with Double wear foundation for a long day makeup.
I love the estee lauder so much, the only foundation that doesn’t crease or fade in my nose area and the only foundation I’ve tried that withstand the heat and humidity in my city, but It’s so expensive, I wanna try something from the drugstore, can you do a comparisson video of EL and revlon combo/oily skin?
I know, it's really in a league of its own. Great idea for a video! In the meantime, I will tell you this one is about 65% as good in terms of creasing/fading/longevity as the double wear...it's not in the same league but it's good for the price.
I’ve been searching for a red-orange lipstick that resembles one worn by British women during WWII. Could this be it?! “Love That Red” is a blue-toned red.
Maybe its because it's the green version?(the ones with the green detail on the edges) Those are from recycled materials I think. Maybe thats why the corners are wearing quickly. Just a theory.
I use the conditioner and mask of this line and I have to say, it's the best experience I've had. I have mixed hair (greasy at the scalp and dry at the ends) and since I use the mask and conditioner of this particular line, my hair's never looked healthier and is soft as a cloud. Will definitely keep using this line's products 🙂
I’ve used the 0.1% for over a year and still having adult acne at 40 years old. I got a prescription for the 0.3% and have been using it for about 2 1/2 months once daily at night. I have noticed a decrease in my acne and sometimes I go an entire week without having any acne pop-up. I have experienced no skin irritation at all with the increased strength. I’m going to stick with it. I work in a hospital and I frequently have patients tell me that they think I am in my 20s or early 30s. Years ago before starting retinoids, I had hyperpigmentation spots in multiple places on my face from years of sun exposure and acne breakouts. All of that is completely gone now. Also, it is quite expensive. I was told by the pharmacy that it’s cheaper if the prescription is for the squeeze tube versus the pump. My doctor had sent a prescription for the pump and I called them and asked them to switch it to the squeeze tube so that it would be cheaper and they had no problem with that.
Ohh thank you for this review, that gives me hope ;) Also I had no idea about the pump vs squeeze tube pricing...that's just so silly but, what else is new I guess. Thanks for the informative comment, hope you keep enjoying those compliments at work!
Hi Helen, I started watching your channel relating to your hair care topics but stayed for the cozy conversational style of your videos. I too prefer the 10 min mark videos for my attention span needs but will watch longer depending on the topic. I am also a Canadian and used to live in TO too so I love to support fellow Canadians. I wanted to say hello and had a few hair related questions for you too! If you would be willing to answer regarding products you use.
Gosh that is so nice of you to say! And thanks for letting me know about your preferred length...I think many of us are in the same boat! Hello and feel free to ask me anything, either here or if you want to be more private you can email me at helloshrimpy {at} gmail.com anytime! I appreciate the kind words and encouragement!
@@HelenAvery Thank you for replying. I feel you have a great personality for having a channel and it is a shame that you have not been able to be algorithmicly blessed yet~~ I still think it’s great how you share your voice and gift and consider it inspiring!
My question is, relating to Rogaine. I have experience little bouts of hair loss that comes in “waves” I feel? Where I experience more shedding and then it tapers and feels healthy for a while etc… I am a bit fan of trying to get to the bottom of it and truly wonder and feel that there is a fix to the issue whether it’s stress related loss-- (I feel I’m very extra sensitive to stress or be it hormone etc… point is I have not solved it yet and wonder if Rogaine is the answer for now. I have used it the past 3 years mildly slowing down the shedding but recently experienced some health issues that made me feel like cutting out a lot of toxins so I stopped Rogaine. I didn’t notice a dramatic difference to be honest BUT as fall approaches I’m finding those more frequent sheds and am frustrated. Do you feel like it’s worth trying again? Have you ever explored other possibilities for your own loss? I’m worried as I have baby fine hair that it’s just going to get too thin to even cover my head lol. There’s a lot packed into those questions but I really just want to solve the issue maybe naturally ?
Ok let me think here. I too get shedding in bouts, especially in September/October. Apparently hair loss can be seasonal? A really good hair loss website from an actual Canadian physician is Dr. Donovan's site. He does lots of blogs: donovanmedical.com/hair-blog As for me, Rogaine works, its safety is well established and it's easy so I haven't looked too much further afield. But I understand what you are saying about a natural approach, and that Rogaine sometimes just mildly helps to cut down the shed, which is sort of my situation right now as well. Perhaps you've looked into getting a blood panel done as subtle things can apparently make a difference (aka vitamin deficiencies)? If you're on the fence about using Rogaine again here are some thoughts: 1. Would you consider using it again but giving yourself an exactly one year of a deadline, after which point you stop if it's not doing much 2. Would it help you to make a decision if you got a second opinion from a dermatologist or someone like a GP who you trust and respect? 3. Or, perhaps you make a commitment to really look after your stress levels and do a healthy overhaul: daily sweaty exercise, balanced diet, the right supplements and then re-evaluate in a year? Maybe you've tried these or maybe they are not feasible, but I wanted to throw them out there for you to think about!
Actually there is something wrong with the biotin ingredient if you are not low on biotin and are taking it. You can actually do complete opposite and increase breakage of your nails and hair so it’s not recommended to take biotin unless you know your low on it and I’ve been recommended by a doctor!!!
@@HelenAveryeverything is so polished now and perfect when they do a "90s makeup" it's ridiculous. I think they just dont understand what the thinking was. It was also so linked to music, I mean we wanted some attitude. I remember seeing Linda Perry and Dolores O'Riordan, that's what a lot of girls wanted to emulate. The attitude.
I came to your channel (and stayed) for your thoughtful reviews and your personality! Please don't measure the quality of your videos or your self-worth based on negative comments from people you don’t know! Xx
I’m a long time subscriber and wanted to thank you for sharing your life with us. I like the vlogs and longer content but mixed with videos that are 10-15 min long. It’s good that you are ignoring the trolls and no you don’t look old. You look great! I like how genuine you are in your videos so share whatever you like. I know you aren’t doing hair loss videos primarily but it would be nice to see a few hair loss updates here and there or hair products you like or have found. Hope you continue on your RU-vid journey.
You've always dropped me comments over the years and they are always kind and thoughtful, I appreciate you so much. Yes! A mix of video lengths and types a good idea...keeps things fun!
Hi Helen! As a retired person with time to enjoy RU-vid I find that I watch a variety of formats, from shorts to longer content. As long as it’s a topic of interest I enjoy all formats. I am grateful for yourself and others for sharing information. I always learn the best things from family, friends and, yes, RU-vidrs! You are an intelligent woman with a lot to offer. Although beauty, skincare, and makeup are interesting to me what’s most interesting is someone who is honest and relatable. I don’t care at all about cameras, filters, lighting and editing. Well, mostly don’t care. You are a capable, intelligent and beautiful woman. I can’t understand anyone needing to tear that down. Ignore the ignorance and carry on! Thanks for filming for your audience, take good care.
Hi Tracey, yes, you've hit on the key point, right? As long as it's interesting that's the important part. Such kind words and affirmations you've posted here, I really thank you. I know there are so many lovely people out there (like you!) who really do outnumber the means ones, so it warms my heart to hear from you. I appreciate this so much!
Hated (literally) these weddes. I used my fingers and patted and patted again. I do have this foundation (1N2) and it's so beautiful on my 67 y.o. skin. I have brushes but for the life of me find it so hard to use them. I won't stop trying but will always be finishing it with a damped sponge. 😊 And bought a pump from Amazon and half a pump goes a long way fie me.😊
Helen you are a beautiful woman. I am a seaoned woman is truly grateful to have LIFE. I discovered your channel last weekend, and immediately enjoyed your videos because they are intelligent, entertaining and so personable! I watch on T.V. and I loved your reviews because they are relatable and informative. Im sorry you have to exposed to sick and miserable people.
Aw, thank you so very much! This comment makes my day. I've definitely had fun making videos of the years so the pleasure is mine too. As for the rude people and trolls, well, learning to deal with them is a work in progress, not just for me but for society, I think. Anyhow, I appreciate you so much! Hope to see you around here for a long time ;)
My favourite used to be watching 10 minute videos, which I think it still is on my phone but I can easily watch 30 minutes on my TV--funny how that is! Alas no, the hairloss problem is still an ongoing thing, but I'm happy enough with it :) I appreciate your thoughtful and kind comment!
I'm an Esthetician, and I also used to work for Aveda. I agree these products are super expensive, but they do what they say they will do. However, it is VERY important to get the products for your hair type! The Invati line comes in both rich and light formulas. I have fine hair, and I get the light version. Also, the itchiness that the reviewer is experiencing, means that the product is working. Her scalp has been exfoliated, which means removing dead skin. Now the products are penetrating deeper into the follicle to produce more hair growth. The reason it takes long to grow hair is because we constantly put products on dead skin/scalp. As for the "gumminess", I'm not really sure because I don't use the scalp serum. The products are free of silicones, parabens, and mineral oils. If you sign up for the rewards program, you can earn points to get discounted products. There is also a sitewide discount offered twice per year. That's when I restock all my products. Aveda is the bomb!
Thanks for the update! Back when I made this they only had the one formulation: the heavy one, which I didn't like. I guess they listened to us and made two formulations. Thanks for sharing, we appreciate this updated info! I will note though that they use fine print for *hair loss and when you read it, it says in tiny fine print *hair loss due to breakage. This is the case in Canada at the moment, not sure if also it's marketed this way elsewhere... which I still stand by as misleading. However, I'm fully willing to admit these new formulations are probably improved since I filmed this years ago. Be well, thanks for the comment!
Just started 2 months ago and the "elitest" watercolorists who kept pushing for expensive Arches paper and professional grade paints really pushed me off even trying watercolor for almost 6 months. I ended up deciding that if I just try at any level of supplies, then it is way better than not at all. I bought Cotman set of 24 watercolors for $25 on ebay, $6 on Canson paper (60% off sales at Joanns) and then got a Princeton Velvetouch brush for less than a dollar after waiting for a sale and using a $5 reward at Michaels. How am I ever going to even know Canson paper is bad if I just jump to Arches or Fabriano? And honestly the first few weeks is just trying to figure out water control and how to even use a brush. When I saw the title of your video today, I said yes!!!!
I so agree with you! And not just because we have the same taste in student-grade watercolor supplies, lol! Really, you've summed it up probably even better that I did, I appreciate this note. And of course, people can use up one pad and move on the expensive stuff next...why not give yourself a chance to even see if you like it? Many find beginner watercolor frustrating and I disagree that it's down only to the paper and paint...exactly what you say, it's about the water and brush control at first. Thanks for watching and commenting, I appreciate you!
6am I have been bin watching your how to for thining hair 7years ago. I fear I'm going bald. As a stress resonts due to my husband's passing 5 months ago. It was a sudden death and lead me to a mass of health issues My hair has been thining though the years but this is insane. I found your advice very helpful I will be trying them after a shower. Also I will be sending a note of to our darling Lisa Eld- as I love her to and have been following for years. Thank You for your help Fondly Judy
Judy I'm so sorry to hear about your husband's passing. My sincere condolences, sending you a huge hug. Please try your best to look after yourself, I know it's hard but you can do this. Best of luck, it's been my pleasure to help over the years. Sending you courage and strength, my friend.
Each first order comes with MERIT's signature bag. Free shipping on all orders over $40 Shop @Merit muse.meritbeauty.com/helen6jc Merit X TOVE Handbag Merit Great Skin Serum Flush Balm in Cheeky Day Glow Balm in Bounce Signature Lipstick in Power
No comment about those commenting on you aging - what?? I think you look just great and even when you’re 100 yrs old still making YT videos, you’ll keep going strong. 💪👍🔆
I normally wear Fresco shade but today requested a color update to go with my tan skin. When she first applied the 4N1 it seemed fine. Over the course of an hour, it became very orange ☹️😞
Oh boy, that's really frustrating! Some shades seem to oxidize or change, which is not fun for such an expensive complexion product. Thanks for letting us know!
Thanks Helen for an interesting review. Do you intend to continue using adapalene and do you use your other regular skincare around it? I recall you previously reviewed the Clinique Dark Spot Correcting Serum. How does adapalene compare to that in terms of fading hyperpigmentation?
You're welcome! I do see myself continuing, if even for the smoothing of the little bumps on my forehead I am seeing improvement with. If anything, in time I may go for the stronger Retin-A type prescription product. I'd have to say the Clinique worked better for my dark spot, it really seems to hold it at bay...the adapalene didn't seem to help it any further, if that makes sense (I'm using them both at the same time so it's a bit hard to tease out what's what). I hope this helps!
Glad you like it, it's been a game changer for me! Thanks for letting me know. I'd love to try that one as well...if only they would lower the prices a little, lol! I should get a trial size! ;)
You definitely should it’s such a good shampoo I no nutritive is you’re favorite but I think you’ll like the densifiwye too for its thickening effects :)
My dermatologist gave me a low dose .5 oral minoxidil. I could not take it. Prickly skin all over from my torso up to my scalp. My face felt flushed. OMG, the shedding was so bad. I tried to tolerate it for 20 days hoping the side effects would go away. Had to stop, now trying the foam.
