Friday, December 30, 2016

Top 5 Anti-Aging Beauty Oils of 2016

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

There is no question that there were many, many beauty oils that flooded the marketplace this year, and given the traction that face oils have achieved in the last few years, there is every indication that this trend will continue in 2017. That said, there have been a few that have really distinguished themselves from the rest, and with this in mind I have carefully selected the Top 5 Anti-Aging Beauty Oils of 2016. 

From its very inception, African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil was envisioned  and conceived as a new type of antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory anti-aging oil– the likes of which did not yet exist. Unlike many luxury oils that add water to break down water-soluble actives, African Botanics opted not to dilute the oils, but instead utilized highly potent oil soluble actives. Furthermore, they source rare ingredients of the highest quality from remote locations, and the end result is a staggeringly unique beauty oil that easily rivals the most potent and effective anti-aging serums in the marketplace today. 

African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil is a highly concentrated luxury oil that is lightweight in texture and fast absorbing. The texture, is itself, ultra-silky and it leaves skin feeling like the softest cashmere conceived. It has an utterly intoxicating aroma that is a delectable fusion of the Jasmine Grandiflorum, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Kalahari Melon Seed Oil and Marula Seed Oil. It is a warm and earthy floral that delights the senses, calms the mind and nourishes the skin. During the entire experience of using this precious oil, one is reminded that it is unlike anything else previously imagined– let alone actually created. It is an oil to be savored, and the tactile and sensory experience is so exquisite that one immediately slows down to really relish the experiential component of this highly effective ultra-luxe beauty oil. 

African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil utilizes a visionary delivery system that allows the ingredients to penetrate the skin deeply in order to effectively nourish the skin, to stimulate skin cell renewal, to restore and regenerate skin and to protect and heal. Furthermore, this unique formula softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while fading hyperpigmentation, and it reduces inflammation and redness.

I simply apply a few drops to my freshly washed skin, that is still warm and slightly damp, and gently press in and release the oil into my face, neck and décolletage, as recommended. Skin is immediately left with a gorgeous, pronounced luminosity and an ethereal glow. As previously noted, African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil sinks in immediately, but it neither leaves behind a greasy film, nor does it require a long wait before finishing up the skincare routine or applying makeup.

My skin is notably different in that the overall texture is more even in tone and the small areas of light hyperpigmentation have noticeably faded. My fine lines are softened and my skin appears more taut and lifted. Furthermore, it effectively encourages skin cell-turnover to eliminate dull and dry dead skin cells in order to reveal luminous fresh skin.

This oil balances skin, and has regulated my active T-zone while simultaneously fighting redness and inflammation during my monthly hormonal cycle. I also found it remarkable that it healed a hormonal breakout overnight because of its ability to regulate hormonal skin and radically reduce inflammation.

While I do not have particularly enlarged pores, I have noted that mine are now far less noticeable. Additionally, the pores that have always been prone to clogging on my nose and chin no longer appear congested.

African Botanics claims that African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil will leave skin, "luminous, more youthful with increased firmness, elasticity and clarity" and I can attest to the veracity of this statement. This lovely oil leaves skin soft, supple, hydrated and luminous unlike anything else that I have tried.

According to African Botanics,

From a world of truly wild and remote locations far from all civilization and light pollution in the most southern hemisphere of Africa, there is an eternal beauty that endures all time.

Exotic night blooms, indigenous African desert and bush plants that have adapted to survive the challenges of their environment are harnessed and captured with a potent concentration of highly advanced marine biotechnology that is packed with anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, soothing and healing properties.
African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil utilizes a visionary delivery system that allows the ingredients to penetrate the skin deeply in order to effectively nourish the skin, to stimulate skin cell renewal, to restore and regenerate skin and to protect and heal. Furthermore, this unique formula softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while fading hyperpigmentation, and it reduces inflammation and redness.

I simply apply a few drops to my freshly washed skin, that is still warm and slightly damp, and gently press in and release the oil into my face, neck and décolletage, as recommended. Skin is immediately left with a gorgeous, pronounced luminosity and an ethereal glow. As previously noted, African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil sinks in immediately, but it neither leaves behind a greasy film, nor does it require a long wait before finishing up the skincare routine or applying makeup.

My skin is notably different in that the overall texture is more even in tone and the small areas of light hyperpigmentation have noticeably faded. My fine lines are softened and my skin appears more taut and lifted. Furthermore, it effectively encourages skin cell-turnover to eliminate dull and dry dead skin cells in order to reveal luminous fresh skin.

This oil balances skin, and has regulated my active T-zone while simultaneously fighting redness and inflammation during my monthly hormonal cycle. I also found it remarkable that it healed a hormonal breakout overnight because of its ability to regulate hormonal skin and radically reduce inflammation.

While I do not have particularly enlarged pores, I have noted that mine are now far less noticeable. Additionally, the pores that have always been prone to clogging on my nose and chin no longer appear congested.

African Botanics claims that African Botanics Fleurs d’Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil will leave skin, "luminous, more youthful with increased firmness, elasticity and clarity" and I can attest to the veracity of this statement. This lovely oil leaves skin soft, supple, hydrated and luminous unlike anything else that I have tried.

According to African Botanics,

From a world of truly wild and remote locations far from all civilization and light pollution in the most southern hemisphere of Africa, there is an eternal beauty that endures all time.

Exotic night blooms, indigenous African desert and bush plants that have adapted to survive the challenges of their environment are harnessed and captured with a potent concentration of highly advanced marine biotechnology that is packed with anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, soothing and healing properties.
May Lindstrom The Youth Dew Hydrating Serum ($120.00 for .68 oz. from May Lindstrom, Barneys New York, Cult Beauty UK (£96.00), Beautylish, Follain, Ahalife, Shen Beauty and Beautyhabit. Reviewed HERE):


May Lindstrom, the eponymously named line of its creator, is a healthy skincare collection that uses sustainably sourced certified organic, wild harvested, biodynamic and vegan ingredients of the highest quality. May, a former model known as the "skin chef," lovingly makes each batch by hand, and is among the short list visionaries to create ultra luxurious natural skincare products. More of a magician, or alchemist, May has an innate understanding of the raw materials and is able to commingle disparate elements to create harmonious blends that ignite the senses and nourish the skin.

May Lindstrom is a line that inspires a profound engagement with the ritual associated with the finest quality skincare products that boast otherworldly textures, heavenly aromas, and astonishing results. Stress melts away as one yields oneself to the undeniable experiential aspect of this magical line, and one cannot help but savor every moment of this glorious process.

May Lindstrom The Youth Dew Hydrating Serum is more of a magical golden elixir than a mere beauty oil. This gem of an ultra-luxe face oil is lightweight, fast absorbing and has a delectable aroma that is punctuated by the Rosa Damascena (Bulgarian Rose) Essential Oil. This antioxidant-rich potion provides the skin with immediate hydration, nourishment and a pronounced luminosity. After a few days of use, I noted that my face, neck and décolleté were unusually soft, supple, hydrated and luminous. This oil is so nourishing and hydrating that I am actually able to forgo an added moisturizer altogether. May Lindstrom suggests that The Youth Dew is very well suited for dry skin, but it is not too rich for normal/combination skin like mine. I simply warm a couple of drops between my hands and massage it into my warm, damp skin. The results are unmistakable and undeniable. 
According to May Lindstrom,

This joyously over-the-top hydrating potion transforms skin with a power-packed bouquet of 20 ambitiously regenerating and indulgent plant and botanical oils infused with time-stopping CoEnzyme Q10. The Result: A Petal Soft Complexion that Glows with Ageless Grace

Directions: Apply a few potent drops to moist skin morning and night for the only hydration your skin requires. 

Ingredients:*Persea Americana (Avocado) Oil, *Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam Seed) Oil, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, *Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Prunus Spp (Plum Kernel) Oil, *Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, *Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip Seed) Oil, *Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Oil, *Calophyllum Inophyllum (Tamanu) Oil, *Borago Officinalis (Borage Seed) Oil, Aleurites Moluccans (Kukui Nut) Oil, *Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, *Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium Rose) Essential Oil, *Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Essential Oil, *Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Essential Oil, *Citrus Limon (Lemon) Essential Oil, *Rosa Damascena (Rose Absolute) Essential Oil, *Rosa Damascena (Bulgarian Rose) Essential Oil, *Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Essential Oil, ***Daucus Carota (Carrot Seed) Essential Oil, Ubiquinone (CoEnzyme Q10). *Certified Organic ***Wild Harvested.  7.91% Linoleic / 27.08% Oleic Acid- Very well suited for dry skin.
Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum For Face ($185.00 for  30 ml/ 1 oz. from Vintner's Daughter, Space NK, Follain, Need Supply Co and Cult Beauty (£150.00) Reviewed HERE):

This marvelous luxury elixir has quickly risen through the ranks to achieve pride of place on the short list of top luxury beauty oils for even the most picky aficionados. I am among them. Vintner's Daughter was created by April Gargiulo, a Napa Valley vintner, who wanted to formulate a potent and active organic botanical serum that was free of chemical compounds and toxic ingredients.  Therefore, she joined forces with natural beauty experts, and they spent two years formulating Active Botanical Serum. This potent phytoactive beauty oil in an anti-aging treatment that features, "energy dense botanicals that infuse every drop of Active Botanical Serum with anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, firming phytoceramides, nourishing fatty-acids and powerful anti-oxidants." In its capacity as a titan of anti-aging, this luxury oil serum was formulated to, "stimulate cellular turnover; maintain skin elasticity; strengthen capillaries; inhibit melanin production; deliver oxygen to cells and protect against free-radical damage." Furthermore, one quickly notices that skin appears more soft, supple, hydrated,  even in tone, lifted, moisturized, radiant and youthful.
According to Vintner's Daughter,

We begin by sourcing the world’s most potent, organic and wild-crafted botanicals with the singular goal of creating the most active and luxurious all-natural product possible. Each ingredient is chosen for not only its individual capabilities, but also how it works synergistically with other ingredients. It takes many weeks to bring these ingredients together and ensure that every drop of our formula is infused with the highest levels of powerful skin renewing agents. After our formulation is complete, Active Botanical Serum is sealed in a violet-colored glass bottle that harnesses specific light rays to increase the energy level of our serum while in bottle.  All of this is done to ensure that our serum protects and nourishes your skin at the highest level.


Creating Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum is a time intensive labor of love that rests entirely on sourcing the finest natural ingredients from conscious growers around the world. Our serum is formulated without parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, PEGs, and SLSs.


Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum is described as, 

...a luxurious multi-correctional infusion of 22 of the world’s most active organic and wildcrafted botanicals. At the heart of this powerful treatment is an energy dense phyto radiance infusion. Combined with highly targeted essential oils, our formulation combines anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, skin firming phytoceramides, nourishing fatty-acids and powerful antioxidants to help fight signs of aging; stimulate cellular turnover; maintain skin elasticity; strengthen capillaries; inhibit melanin production; prevent wrinkles; deliver oxygen to cells and protect against free-radical damage. The small particle size of our proprietary formula allows our active botanicals to deeply penetrate skin’s layers and because the skin fully recognizes the plant actives as the nutritive building blocks of its own structure, skin becomes more healthy, radiant and youthful.

This lightweight and fast absorbing golden elixir boasts a delectable warm and earthy aroma from which one can detect the Rose Damascena Absolute, Jasminum Grandiflorum Flower and a fusion of the remaining essential oils. The intoxicating aromatherapeutic experience delights and calms the senses while it quiets the mind. I find that I slow down and inhale deeply as I massage in into my skin, and that any residual stress that I may have been experiencing just melts away. This ritual is utterly relaxing, and it heightens the sensory experience of using this luxe oil.

My default method of beauty oil application has always been to warm it in my hands before massaging it into my damp, freshly cleansed skin. However, I was intrigued by the Push/Press Technique for Maximum Radiance that Vintner's Daughter suggests, and after having tried it numerous times I must confess that it is a remarkably effective technique.

Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum significantly bolsters radiance and it leaves skin silky smooth, soft and supple. I note a distinct brightening and evening of my skin tone, a lifting and softening on my fine lines, and an undeniable increase in the long term hydration of my skin.

Ingredients: Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil; Corylus Avellana (Hazelnut) Oil; Citrus Aurantium var Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil; Persea Americana (Avocado) Oil; Calendula officinalis (Marigold) Extract; Rose Damascena (Rose) Absolute; Daucus Carota (Carrot) Seed Oil; Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil; Rosa Rubignosa (Rosehip) Seed Oil; Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel; Lavandula x Intermedia (Lavender) Flower; Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Leaf; Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf; Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) Leaf; Boswellia Carteri (Frankincense) Oil); Citrus Aurantium var Amara (Neroil) Flower Oil; Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract; Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Fruit; Curcuma Longa (Tumeric) Root Oil; Cupressus Sempervirens (Cypress) Leaf Oil; Jasminum Grandiflorum (Jasmine) Flower; Calophyllum Tacamahaca (Tamanu) Oil. 100% chemical and toxin free and is formulated without parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, PEGs, and SLSs.
Odacité Ac+R | Youthful Glow Acai Rose Serum Concentrate ($55.00 For  0.17 Oz. From Odacité, Odacité Official Amazon Store, Cult Beauty & Nordstrom, Reviewed HERE):

ODACITÉ Ac+R Youthful Glow Acai Rose Serum Concentrate Is A Super Potent Antioxidant-Rich, Anti-Aging Luxury Beauty Oil That Is Formulated To Deeply Hydrate The Skin, To Soften The Appearance Of Fine-Lines And Wrinkles, And To Improve The Tone, Texture, Elasticity And Firmness Of The Skin. Additionally, Açai Berry, A Superfood Rich In Antioxidants, Nourishes The Skin And Protects It From Free-Radical Damage. I Noted That My Skin Was Soft, Supple And Boasted A Dewy Glow. It Is A Lightweight And Fast Absorbing Oil That Can Be Used Any Time Of The Day. It Has A Warm Rose Aroma That I Find Utterly Delectable.

Features And Benefits:
• Ultra-Strength Antioxidant Serum That Addresses All Aspects Of Skin Aging: Wrinkles & Firmness, Tone, Texture And Hydration.
• Experience The Extraordinary Power Of Nature With Superfood Acai Berry, They Boasts The Highest Antioxidant Power In The World. Carefully Harvested And Cold Pressed, Acai Berries Yield  The Most Active Beauty Elixir. 
• Scientifically Made With Effective Yet Gentle Essential Oils, Including Rose Oil, Famous For Its Anti-Aging Properties Of Cell Oxygenation And Capillary Reparation.• Gluten Free
Directions: In the palm of your hand, supercharge your daily dose of crème by mixing in 2-3 drops of Ac+R. Or apply alone for a more intensive treatment.

Ingredients: Highest grade cold-pressed Acai (Euterpe oleracea) fruit oil, Rosa damascena (rose) flower oil, Citrus aurantium amara (neroli) flower/leaf oil, Jasminum sambac (jasmine) flower oil, Jasminum grandiflorum (jasmine) flower oil, Cananga odorata (ylang ylang) flower oil, Litsea cubeba fruit oil, Vanillosmopsis erythropappa (bisabolol) wood oil, Canarium lozonicum (elemi) gum oil, Cedrus atlantica (cedar) wood oil, Certified GMO-free Vitamin E (Tocopherols) oil.


WABI-SABI BOTANICALS BUDHI Sacha Inchi Eye Nectar ($52.00 for 1o ml. from Wabi-Sabi Botanicals, Etsy, *$49.95 in the Let it Glow Beauty Box from Boxwalla, Reviewed HERE):

I have to say that the aroma of this Eye Nectar is utterly intoxicating, and the amalgam of rich, roasted coffee beans, cacao and warm vanilla is unbelievably delectable. It is no wonder that WABI-SABI chose to name it BUDHI, which is a Buddhist term  that means ‘awaken.’ Awaken, indeed.

The texture of this oil-based elixir is lightweight and velvety smooth, and it absorbs into the skin immediately– leaving behind a luminous glow sans a greasy residue. This deeply nourishing, and potent, antioxidant-rich anti-aging nectar effectively targets a multitude of concerns ranging from: dark circles, dull skin, loose skin, dry skin, prematurely aging skin to inflammation and puffiness. Furthermore, this formula is 100% Natural & Non-Toxic, 93% Certified Organic and it is Vegan and Cruelty-Free.

I simply apply 1-2 drops to freshly cleansed skin, that is warm and slightly damp, and gently pat it under and around my eyes. While I do not have skin that is loose, dry, dull, or prematurely aging skin– I do get dark circles and puffiness when I don't get enough rest.

After using BUDHI Sacha Inchi Eye Nectar for several weeks, both night and day, I noted that my skin was deeply nourished and hydrated, and my fine lines were softened and lifted. Furthermore, on the occasions that I would awaken to dark circles and under-eye puffiness, they would be significantly reduced, if not eliminated altogether. Additionally, this lovely nectar consistently leaves my skin soft, silky smooth and glowing. This is an exemplary eye serum!
According to WABI-SABI,

This velvety Nectar creation targets dark circles, inflammation, discoloration, and visible signs of aging around the eyes by harnessing the benefits of antioxidant-rich Coffee Fruit, carotene-packed Seabuckthorn berries, and high GLA content Evening Primrose blossoms. With a base of Organic, Peruvian Sacha Inchi oil, scientifically verified to work against free radical damage and protect skin from sun damage, while effectively reducing inflammation and discoloration. Pure, Organic Guava Seed and Prickly Pear Seed Oils deeply penetrate the skin to refine and tighten, lighten and brighten, and restore and protect the precious, delicate skin around your eyes. Warm, sweet Tonka and Cacao Beans combine with the rich aroma of roasted Venezuelan Coffee beans for a truly decadent and delicious nightly skin treat.

Full Ingredients: Peruvian Sacha Inchi Oil*, Seabuckthorn Fruit Supercritical CO2*, Evening Primrose Oil*, Coffee Fruit Oil*, Olive Squalene*, Guava Seed Oil*,  Prickly Pear Seed Oil**, Non-GMO Mixed Tocopherols, Cacao Bean Absolute**, Tonka Bean Absolute*, *Certified Organic Ingredient, **Wildcrafted ,***Ethically Grown/Sourced.
Overall Assessment: Given my penchant for luxury beauty oils, I have tested a tremendous number of the finest on the market ranging from the affordable to the ultra-luxe, and these 5 luxurious anti-aging oils are perfection in every conceivable way. I highly recommend trying them, you won't regret it.

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Affiliate Links).
Copyright © 2016 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

18 comments:

  1. Haven't tried any of these. I'm a big fan of the new Estée Lauder ANR Ampoules, but those are suuuuper expensive of course...

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    1. I highly recommend them, they are so good!!!!!!!! I haven't tried the EL ANR Ampoules, but I am not surprised that they are super expensive! Happy New Year!!!!!

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  2. I know that you are an oils expert, so I will bookmark your post in the hope that I can come back and try at least a couple of these beauties. The rose-acai oil and WABI-SABI Budhi oil intrigue me most

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    1. You are so kind, Allison! Yes, I think that the Odacite and WABI-SABI oils are truly exceptional! I think that you would really love them both! <3

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  3. Such a great lineup! I've recently been hearing a lot about Odacite and the Acai Rose serum. I think it might just be my next skincare purchase.

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    1. Thank you, Bailey. Oh yes, you really should try their Ac+R Serum– it's truly amazing!

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  4. I bow down to your knowledge of facial oils. The way your describe them always makes me want to buy them all.

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    1. That is such a lovely thing to say, Marcia! Thank you! <3

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  5. Your posts always make me want all of the things, especially these oils.

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    1. You are very kind, Erika! These oils are really sensational, and I highly recommend all of them!!!!!!!!

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  6. Hello, was curious to know how the African Botanic's Intensive recovery oil compares to Colbert MD's Illumino Face oil? I noticed both of these oils have retinol and vitamin C in them.. Which do you prefer?

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    1. Hi! I definitely have and use both of them, but I prefer the African Botanics Fleurs d'Afrique Intensive Recovery Oil because it is loaded with so many actives, and its efficacy is unlike anything else that I have experienced. Since it is a very expensive oil, they now offer a small sample size for sale. They are both excellent oils, and I still love Illumino, but if I could only have one of them it would be African Botanics.

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  7. Thank you so much for your quick reply and also for so many wonderful reviews. :)

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    1. You are so very welcome! Thank you for your kind words!

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  8. Hello, I recently found your blog while searching for anti-aging oils and this blog post was everything I was hoping to find compacted into one perfectly well-written and synthesized post! Thank you so much for compiling your favorites in such an easy-to-read manner! Since you have such a wealth of knowledge, I would love to ask you a few questions:

    1) How do the African Botanics and Vintner's Daughter compare to each other? Would you consider African Botanics more effective at combatting age because of the retinol?

    2)What skin type do you think each one (African Botanics and Vintner's Daughter) is better at targeting?

    2) Of the two, which one is your personal favorite?

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    1. Hi! Thank you for your very kind words! I am so glad that you found this so helpful. If you look at the top of the website you will notice a "Luxury Oils" tab that you may want to take a look at since I feature so many oils there.

      1) Vintner's Daughter and African Botanics are both truly amazing beauty oils, and both are quite active, antioxidant rich and quite effective. However, I would say that the rich and densely packed oil-soluble actives and the retinol gives African Botanics Fleurs d'Afrique an advantage.

      2) Both of these oils are appropriate for most skin types.

      3) African Botanics Fleurs d"Afrique is my all-time favorite beauty oil, but I do still use others as well. I just find it to be one of the most extraordinary products that I have ever used. :-) I have normal/combination skin, but it is also amazing on dry skin and people with skin that is decidedly more combination than mine will greatly benefit from this glorious oil as well.

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    2. You are incredible! With these fast responses and thorough reviews, you may have just become one of my favorite beauty blogs. :)

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    3. Thank you for your very kind words! You just made my day! I cannot tell you how happy it makes me! :-)

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