Empties Post Volume XLII: March 2016

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My strategy of leaving mostly used up products in plain view proved, once again, to effectively encourage me to finish them up. Whether I make a discreet pile in the shower, or on the bathroom vanity– I am far more apt to use things that I see, and that can be easily gotten to. If you find yourself with lots of half-used products, then I definitely recommend trying this method.

Overall, I am pleased with the number of products that I finished up in March, and definitely have some true-loves to report about.

MANUKA SECRETS Exfoliant (Reviewed HERE): I love to exfoliate my skin on a regular basis, and there are always about 4-6 different varieties to choose from in my shower at any given moment.

This exfoliant is good for all types of skin, and it effectively and gently removes dead skin cells– leaving skin soft, velvety smooth and unbelievably hydrated. It contains two different sized exfoliant particles: bamboo plus jojoba pearl and white clay, and this combination eliminates dead skin cells gently, while the Shea Butter and Rice Bran and Coconut Oils leave skin hydrated. Furthermore, Cucumber Extract softens and soothes the skin. The end result is gorgeous glowing skin.

Beautisol Exscrub Me? (Reviewed HERE): This Citrus Face Exfoliant is densely packed with fine Jojoba beads that effortlessly remove dead skin cells with great speed and precision. They are expertly crafted and uniformly shaped without any jagged protruding edges that scratch and damage the skin. That said, trust me when I say that one only needs to use a very light hand because this scrub is more than capable of getting rid of every trace of dead skin cells with a very gentle touch. The citrus peel and extracts, which lend this jewel a scrumptious scent, perform miracles by leaving skin cleansed, clarified, glowing and utterly refreshed.

RADICAL Skincare Youth Infusion Serum (Review Forthcoming): This lightweight and hydrating serum lifts and plumps skin, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles very effectively. RADICAL utilizes cutting-edge proprietary technology and the highest quality ingredients in their ultra-luxe anti-aging skincare line that is gentle and highly effective.

Jan Marini Marini Holiday Exfoliator (Reviewed HERE) While Jan Marini is, no doubt, a skincare expert– that does not mean that her products have to be be run of the mill and predictable. No product makes this more clear than the Marini Holiday Exfoliator in Cranberry Orange. Not only does it smell like the holiday season in the most delectable sort of way, but it is also one of the most effective and gentle exfoliators that I have had the pleasure of using.

ARCONA Peptide Hydrating Complex (Review Forthcoming): This lotion is rich peptides, flavonoids and a myriad of nourishing ingredients to hydrate, smooth, lift and regenerate the skin. While it is a lightweight, it is a rich lotion that deeply hydrates dry and sensitive skin, but it also works spectacularly well for my normal/combination skin. I have already opened another bottle because I am so in love with this formula.

37 Extreme Actives High Performance Anti-Aging Cream is luxury anti-aging cream that delivers impressive moisture, and leaves skin ultra-hydrated and lifted. The sample was not large enough to really determine any sort of long-term benefits, but I really likes the way that it made my skin feel. I would definitely be interested in testing it further.

Trader Joe's Orange Blossom Hand Soap is one of my repeatedly purchased liquid hand soaps because it smells delicious and it thoroughly cleanses without drying out hands. I highly recommend trying it on your next trip to Trader Joe's.

Hemp Nation Infused with Exotic Kiwi Mango Fruit Blend Body Wash is a tropical scented body wash that hydrates skin, and never leaves is in the least bit stripped. I liked the scent a lot, and would definitely use this again.

Little Twig Baby Wash Calming Lavender (Reviewed HERE) is an all-natural blend of "soothing lavender, restorative chamomile and gentle bubbles" that provides aromatherapeutic benefits that are calming and relaxing, and that encourage a better night’s sleep for babies and adults. It is also wonderful when used as a shower gel, and I found that it even did an exemplary job as a shaving gel for my underarms and legs. It leaves skin soft, hydrated and smooth. The scent is not in the least bit pungent, but instead it is a mellow lavender that delights the senses.

Key West Aloe Aloethera Moisturizing Shampoo (Reviewed HERE) If you seek a shampoo that is gentle enough for everyday use, then Aloethera Moisturizing Shampoo is a great choice. The formula is gentle, non-stripping, and offers enough moisture without weighing hair down.

Key West Aloe Aloethera Keratin Conditioner (Reviewed HERE) If you need a conditioner that combats frizz, detangles, and moisturizes without weighing down your hair, then Key West Aloe Aloethera Keratin Conditioner is a definite must-try. It leaves my hair soft, silky and ultra manageable.

OGX Healing + Vitamin E Conditioner (Reviewed HERE) leaves my hair hydrated, manageable, detangled and frizz-free. I can even get a comb through my curly hair after using this conditioner!

Beauty and the Bees Tasmanian Real Beer Shampoo Bar (Reviewed HERE) is a beautiful handmade bar that is not only chemical free, but it is filled with richly conditioning plant and nut oils as well as hops and beer. It cleans hair thoroughly yet is so gentle and moisturizing that it never strips the hair.

Badger Argan, Jojoba & Baobab Botanical Hair Oil (Reviewed HERE) Badger, who is best known for their iconic balms, also make amazing hair oils, and their Argan, Jojoba & Baobab Botanical Hair Oil Daily Leave-In Conditioning is an unbelievably effective treat for dry and damaged hair. It has a delightful citrus scent that elevates the mood delights the senses, and is so pleasant to use that you might even be inclined to drench yourself in it!

Kiwi Glow Daily Skin Oil Moisturizers in Amaya (Reviewed HERE) is a delightful warm floral with flashes of lily of the valley. Kiwi Glow describes it as having "hints of dandelion and lily of the valley" and conjures images of "lovely subtle petals on your body." The light floral that only leaves behind the slightest traces of scent once it sinks in. It sinks in quickly and deeply nourishes skin leaving it soft, supple and luminous. I even use it as a hand moisturizer, and quickly chapping gives way to soft and smooth skin.

What did you use up, toss out, give away, or return in March? Were there any winners or losers that you want to talk about? Do Tell!

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Copyright © 2016 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Good Things to Have On Hand During the Holidays

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As I was thinking about the upcoming holidays it occurred to me that while this is a festive time of year that it is also one fraught with heightened stress. All of the running around to the grocery store and the mall can leave one feeling a bit worse for wear, and the stress of the season can make people careless, accident prone and cranky. Furthermore, hosting events, and both the foreseen and unforeseen house guests, means needing to be stocked and prepared for come what may.

As I thought about these things, it occurred to me that there were certain items, or item types, that would be worth having on hand for everyone's pleasure, and for any unforeseen bumps and bruises. I picked a few of my favorites, but would to hear about yours!

Cleansing:

Wonderful hand soaps and special bars of soap are a really lovely way to treat yourself and your guests since they transform the mundane activity of hand-washing to a wonderfully luxurious sensory experience.

My favorite hand soaps are the wonderful creations from J.R. Watkins. Their *Foaming Hand Soap in Lemon (reviewed here) and Hand Soap in Lemon and Aloe & Green Tea (reviewed here) are refreshing and lusciously scented soaps that leave hands clean, soft and moisturized. I buy them in multiples whenever they go on sale at the grocery store, but always have them on hand because they are so wonderful to use.

Castelbel Savon Passion Flower & Coconut Soap is a fresh fruity scent that is intoxicatingly beautiful and moisturizing– a true treat for the senses.

Kopa Haiku Lilikoi Guava Cream Soap is an otherworldly soap that my friend bought for me during his last trip to Hawaii, and when he handed it to me I was so overtaken by the sweet scent of paradise that I sniffed it and sniffed it and sniffed it until I felt as though I was in Hawaii!

*SAI-SEI Mineral Loofah Body Polish Soap is a "dual purpose soap has been created with essential minerals, moisturizing glycerin and a segment of natural loofah sponge to gently buff and purify the skin." It gently exfoliates and moisturizes leaving skin soft and supple. It's a lovely addition to the shower.

Moisturizing:

When the weather starts to cool down I like nothing more than a nice variety of rich creams, lotions, body butters and oils to keep my skin soft supple and hydrated. If you have lots of guests throughout the holidays it's especially nice to have a variety from which they can choose in the guest bathroom. Here are a few that have been getting lots of love at my house lately.

*Lavanila The Healthy Body Butter in Vanilla Lavender (reviewed here) is a delectably scented fusion of vanilla and lavender that delights the senses while the luxuriously emollient formula moisturizes the skin.

*Alaffia Coffee & Shea Cafe Au Lait Body Butter in Orange Vanilla is a wonderful Fair Trade richly emollient body cream that smells edible. If you have ever enjoyed Alaffia products, then this one is a definite treat worth having.

*Desert Essence Island Mango Hand and Body Lotion is a rich cream that has the heavenly scent of the tropics. If it's snowing outside then this might be the perfect catalyst for imagining warm tropical breezes and a cute cabana boy handing you a fruity drink on the beach!

*RITUALS Fortune Oil Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood Caring Shower Oil (reviewed here) is a wonderfully moisturizing cleansing oil that has a warm sweet scent that envelopes the senses. It leaves skin soft, supple, silky smooth and hydrated.

*Mario Badescu Summer Shine Body Lotion is a wonderful vitamin rich lotion that imparts the perfect luminous glow that captures the light subtly. It is absolutely holiday perfect, and it's perfect all year long.

For the Shower:

Both expected and unexpected overnight guests during the holidays means that your shower is going to see a lot more traffic than usual. Nothing makes people feel welcome and loved than your attention to the details of their daily life in your home. Having lovely high quality products in the shower means making everyone feel pampered and happy.

*Shiseido Ibuki Gentle Cleanser is a wonderful non-stripping foaming cleanser that is gentle enough for people with sensitive skin. It creates a nice dense foaming lather that cleans skin thoroughly. It is very concentrated– so the smallest amount goes a very long way. It is amazing alone or used with a Clarisonic, and the convenient squeeze tube makes it perfect for the shower. You will love it, and so will your overnight guests.

*Mario Badescu Citrus Body Cleanser is a an utterly delectable fusion of Grapefruit and Orange extracts that gently exfoliate dry skin,  while the Linden extract hydrates. It makes the skin feel amazingly refreshed, smooth and hydrated.

*Beauty and Bees Tasmanian Real Beer Shampoo Bar (reviewed here) is a wonderfully hydrating bar shampoo that works wonders on dry hair and scalp, but is wonderful for all types of hair. It leaves my curly hair soft, shiny and manageable.

*Beauty and Bees Tasmanian Real Beer Hair Conditioner (reviewed here) is a super concentrated highly moisturizing bar conditioner that is unbelievably effective at taming unruly hair, and leaving hair glossy and gorgeous.

Conquering Chapped Lips:

Nothing will prevent you from wearing your new Holy Grail matte lipstick faster than chapped winter lips. So the next time you are at the drugstore buy a wide assortment of lip balms to have on hand for you, your family and your guests. In fact, Keep a bowl of them in the bathroom so that guests can choose one!

*ChapStick Moisture Hydration Lock in Vanilla Cream (reviewed here) is a staple in my house because it is so emollient, hydrating, and a true enemy of dry chapped lips. It is affordable enough to have on hand for family and friends.

*ChapStick in Citrus Jelly Bean (reviewed here) is one of the fun flavors that will make fending off chapped lips a pleasant experience. 

*Body Drench Lip Drench Eucalyptus Moisturizing Lip Balm is a very refreshing lip balm that moisturizes parched lips while making them tingle just a little bit.

For Whatever Ails You:

When boo-boos occur, as they often do, have a few essentials on hand just in case! Other than obvious things like band aids and antibiotic cream– it's a good idea to take stock of what you have, and what you need just in case.

*Painted Earth Skincare Boo-Boo Gel is brilliant multitasker that heals pimples. minor burns, bites and cuts. According to Painted Earth, "Smooth it on daily for blemish free skin. Then grab it when you need it for burns, bites, and small cuts. It’s full of great ingredients that calm and heal the skin.…just about anything skin related. No home should be with out this natural fix all, safe and effective for the old and young . For quick relief, this natural anti-inflammatory will soothe, heal, and nourish your skin. Preventative treatment as well as anti-aging for the skin and body...." 

*Painted Earth Legendary Blend of Thieves Oil "is a blend of five different therapeutic grade essential oils, including cinnamon, clove, lemon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. This combination of healing oils covers a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity and contains properties that strengthen the immune system. Due to its effectiveness against highly infectious germs, including viruses and bacteria, it is one of nature’s most powerful natural home remedies." 

Painted Earth suggests using this oil for the "flu, colds, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, sore throat, strep, toothache, cuts, poison ivy, and as an immune stimulant. We use it to eliminate odors, disinfect around the house, and so much more." 

*CapriClear Moisturizing Spray 100% Fractionated Coconut Oil (reviewed here) is a very hydrating oil that is perfect for those with dry and sensitive skin, and it has the National Eczema Associations seal of approval.

Inevitably accidents do happen during the holiday season since so many activities are done in great haste, and periodically that leads to an overzealous curling iron the the face, or a burn from the oven rack because one's mind may be running through the list of what needs to be done, rather than focusing on the task at hand. When these unforeseen and unfortunate accidents lead to scarring there is a really handy at-home product that can be used on healed scars to help diminish their size. It helps to flatten and soften raised scars in order to make them less noticeable. These should not be used on open wounds of any sort, and certainly should not be used in lieu of a trip to your doctor. That said, if your doctor says this is a viable option for you it may be just what you are looking for to make an existing scar less prominent.

*ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Daily Discs  are "indicated for use in the treatment and prevention of small abnormal scars, including hypertrophic scars and keloids, often resulting from:  Mole Removal, Biopsies, Acne, Small Surgeries, Injuries/Burns, Kids' Scrapes, Bug Bites and much more".

ScarAway medical grade silicone Daily Discs are made with an advanced silicone technology, the latest innovation used by plastic surgeons, burn centers and hospitals around the world.

ScarAway's clinically proven technology diminishes the appearance of scars both new and old, restoring skin to a more natural texture and color.  Used after surgery or injury, our advanced technology helps treat and prevent abnormal scar formation.  It is safe for anyone age three and up and for all skin tones.  ScarAway helps alleviate the itching and discomfort associated with scars.

ScarAway uses an advanced silicone technology, which mimics the natural barrier function of healthy skin.  Research suggests that silicone acts to hydrate scar tissue, which in turn works to soften the scar, reducing excessive scar formation and causing it to fade.

*ScarAway Advanced Formula Scar Gel 100% Silicone for Scars carry, "the only patented, transparent, self-drying silicone gel technology which improves the appearance of scars and prevents abnormal or excessive scar formation."

Intended Use: "ScarAway is intended for the management of old and new scars, including hypertrophic and keloid scars, resulting from surgery, trauma, wounds and burns. For prevention of abnormal scars, use as soon as the wound is closed or sutures are removed.  Scar Away is suitable for use on children or people with sensitive skin."

*ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheets "effectively shrink, flatten and fade hypertrophic (raised) and keloid scars. Using Advanced Patented Silicone Technology, previously available only through hospitals, burn centers and plastic surgeons, this medical-grade scar treatment product brings you the ultimate in non-invasive, drug-free scar treatment. Scars may feel softer in just a few days, with visible results in just weeks. Optimal results are achieved in about 12 weeks." 

For Those Beautiful Pearly Whites:

There is absolutely nothing nicer than having new toothbrushes and toothpaste on hand for unforeseen house guests or those who simply forgot to pack theirs. It is such a small thing to remember, but your guests will remember the extent of your hospitality.

*Colgate Enamel Health Whitening Toothpaste, Clean Mint Paste is my current favorite go-to toothpaste. It helps whiten and brighten, and tastes fresh and minty.

*Colgate 360 Enamel Health Sensitive Toothbrush is really nice gentle toothbrush that will work well for everybody, but if you have overnight guests with sensitive teeth they will be thanking you for not giving them a hard toothbrush!

While plaque fighting mouthwash might seem to be a less than interesting product to include on my list– it strikes me as a perfectly reasonable thing to have on hand during the holidays when one tends to eat, drink and be merry in excess, and this is a good line of defense against all of those indulgences. 

Dentyl Active has a cult-following in England and throughout the world, but can be procured from Amazon in the US. This is a really unusual mouthwash because it is completely alcohol free, and has the unique distinction of having a dual phase formula that one needs to shake before using.

According to Dentyl Active,

Dentyl Active's advanced antibacterial action remains effective, and essential oils continue to help protect the teeth and gums from further build up, for up to 18 hours after use. As Dentyl Active is alcohol-free it does not dry the mouth (which can make bad breath even worse), is gentle to mouth tissues and does not burn or sting. For more information visit their website here.

*Dentyl Active Plaque Fighter Alcohol Free Mouthwash Clove (500ml)has a really wonderful and refreshing clove flavor that is neither too strong and assertive, nor does it have any tendency to burn the mouth as one might expect of such a pungent and potent oil. It is both pleasant and effective, and unlike any mouthwash that I have ever tried.

*Dentyl pH Smooth Mint Mouthrinse (500ml)is a delicious mellow mint that doesn't have the synthetic taste of so many of the drugstore brand mouthwashes on the market. It's not just highly effective, but it's also pleasurable to use.

While this list is hardly a conclusive one, these items do give me some peace of mind knowing that they are there for all to enjoy and use.

What must-have items do you keep on hand during the holidays? What would you add to my list? What is the one thing that you never seem to have enough of, or constantly run out of? 

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Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Beauty and the Bees Tasmanian Real Beer Shampoo Bar and Hair Conditioner Bar | Review

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When I first learned about Beauty and the Bees and their Tasmanian Real Beer Shampoo Bar and Hair Conditioner Bar I was very intrigued by the description. Once these delectable smelling bars arrived I began to feel some misplaced trepidation that using a bar soap and conditioner would wreak havoc on my naturally curly hair. As those among you with naturally curly will surely attest, our finicky tresses can be rather difficult, and finding a shampoo that can clean the hair without stripping it is no small feat.   While I had certainly heard of shampoo bars, I had never heard of conditioner bars, and this unique combination truly piqued my interest.

Tasmanian Real Beer Shampoo Bar is a beautiful handmade bar that is not only chemical free, but it is filled with richly conditioning plant and nut oils as well as hops and beer. It cleans hair thoroughly yet is so gentle and moisturizing that it never strips the hair.

According to Beauty and the Bees,

Beer has been famed for generations for its ability to leave hair bouncy, shiny and full of body, so this bar is chock a block with it – brewed by our neighbours, the boutique Dark Isle Brewery. Prized Tasmanian hops straight from the oasthouses of the lush Derwent River Valley of Tasmania are infused then added for their conditioning and antiseptic qualities. You can see flecks of hop remaining in the bar. With its slightly gingery spicy smell this shampoo has become a firm favourite. Richly conditioning and great for dry hair. Users report with dandruff/psoriasis or those with dry flaky scalps report excellent results. True blue Aussie blokes using it have commented that they are free of dandruff in two washes!

The colour of the bar directly reflects the essential oils, and there are flecks of Pride of Ringwood intensely fragrant, antiseptic hops from Bushy Park in Tasmania,used to make it…..with its slightly gingery, spicy smell this shampoo has become a firm favourite.

The first time that I used the shampoo bar I was pleasantly surprised by the extent to which it moisturized and conditioned my hair. Beauty and the Bees suggested that it is a richly conditioning formula that is great for dry hair, and I absolutely agree. I took care not to rub the bar up and down my hair since that would encourage tangling, but instead I wet the bar and rubbed in between my hands and then rubbed the bar from roots to tips. It thoroughly cleaned my hair and rinsed out easily.

Tasmanian Real Beer Conditioner Bar is a very concentrated 100% natural conditioner that not only does an excellent job conditioning the hair, but it also leaves it soft and incredibly shiny! My nervousness at the thought of using a bar conditioner quickly abated when I felt how moisturized and detangled it left my hair, and that is to say nothing of the fact that my hair was left unbelievably soft, conditioned, and with glossy curls. That said, this is a very concentrated formula, and it is easy to overdo it. Beauty and the Bees suggests that less is definitely more, and I completely agree. Using a small amount delivers big results-- so avoid the temptation to use a lot!

According to Beauty and the Bees,

With Tasmanian hop infused certified organic raw coconut oil, and beer for gloss and shine…
Super concentrated (over 130  uses based on short hair washed daily!) gentle,100% natural and long lasting, our unique Solid conditioning Bars give you a no fuss- no waste way to have healthy shiny hair ….without paying for water, plastic bottles going to landfill and choking our oceans, or polluting chemicals in waterways.

Great for daily use on all hair types including fine, chemically treated/coloured/permed hair, with super mild eco/skin friendly ingredients, natural plant derived conditioning agents (no synthetic silicones),luxurious nourishing plant oils and butters, moisturising,protective panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B 5) and herb infusion ( nettle, horsetail ) to promote healthy hair and scalp and moisturise and condition without heaviness/residue.

Directions: "Moisten Conditioner bar with warm water and work between hands. Massage hands into wet hair working through thoroughly ( or concentrating on dry ends as you wish) adding more conditioner as required until you feel hair is lightly coated with conditioner, and hair feels soft-DO NOT USE TOO MUCH! Less is DEFINITELY more as this product is super concentrated…Rinse well immediately for light conditioning or leave for a few minutes for deep conditioning."

Beauty and the Bees is Cruelty-Free.

Overall Assessment: Beauty and the Bees Tasmanian Real Beer Shampoo Bar and Hair Conditioner Bar are such a pleasant unexpected surprise, and such a wonderful find. My unruly hair is not only moisturized and manageable, but it is glossy and gorgeous! Thank you, Beauty and the Bees! A+

Available from Beauty and the Bees via their website, their Etsy Store and Amazon (Affiliate Links).

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Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.