FutureDerm Vitamin CE Eye Cream 10.0 Review

 Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

FutureDerm has considerably expanded their range of products since I reviewed their fantastic Time Release Retinol 0.50 last year, and I can say without hesitation that their Vitamin CE Eye Cream 10.0  is every bit as impressive as was their first foray into the realm of high quality skincare.

According to FutureDerm, their Vitamin CE Eye Cream 10.0 is designed to be the best:

It accomplishes a heretofore impossible feat — delivering 10% vitamin C (as L-ascorbic acid) and 1% vitamin E to the eye area without irritating most skin types. The creamy, hydrating formula treats undereye wrinkles, creases, and dark circles in as few as 10 days. For daytime and/or nighttime use.

Vitamin C has been clinically proven in independent research to brighten skin, alleviate the appearance of dark circles and age spots, and even skin tone with regular use over time. The undereye area is no exception, particularly in dark circles that are caused by hyperpigmentation (rather than, say, blood pooling in the area).

However, it is difficult to deliver 10% vitamin C as L-ascorbic acid + 1% vitamin E to the eye area without running the risk of irritation — until now. FutureDerm CE Eye Cream 10.0 is a creamy, hydrating formula that will not irritate most skin types. It is designed for the undereye area. Results in as little as 10 days. For daytime and/or nighttime use.

FutureDerm products are tested for safety and efficacy, and are physician-approved. Our ingredients are safe in the concentrations used in each of our products, even with typical repeated use over time. As with any product, please reserve for external use only. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. For best results, use with a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.

FutureDerm answered the 10 most commonly asked questions about their Vitamin CE Eye Cream here, and I highly recommend reading it, if you are interested in learning even more about this fantastic eye cream.

Ingredients: Ascorbic Acid (antioxidant), Dimethicone, Bis Vinyl Dimethicone/ Dimethicone Copolymer (slip agent), Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3 (slip agent), Aluminum Starch, Octenylsuccinate (emulsifier), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil (fatty acid), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil (antioxidant), Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (hydrator), Hydroxypropyl Bispalmitamide MEA (preservative), Tocopherol Acetate (antioxidant), Fragrance (needed, trust us).

My experience: One of the very first things that I noted after I used FutureDerm Vitamin C Eye Cream  for a few days was an unmistakable brightening and tightening of my under eye area. My skin quickly became brighter and more luminous with a pronounced clarity. My delicate eye area is left very soft, smooth, and taut each time that I use it-- and this combination of textural differences is very obvious both at a distance and close-up.  The high concentration of Vitamin C is responsible for the fantastic brightening effects, but fear not it did not irritate the skin in my delicate eye area.

The cream is light and smooth, and sinks in and gets right to work immediately. The silicones lend the cream a lovely velvety texture and the perfect amount of slip while the Vitamin E, Avocado and Grape Seed Oils deeply moisturize the delicate eye are. This antioxidant rich formula assures the user that the anti-aging benefits are real and tangible, and with prolonged use one will definitely see a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, the brightening effects of Vitamin CE Eye Cream has radically lightened my dark circles. FutureDerm suggests that after two months of daily use that skin will, "appear brighter, dark circles due to hyperpigmentation/melanin production will be diminished, and the skin may feel firmer. It really, truly does work." I can attest to the veracity this claim, and I haven't even used it for two months yet!

The fabulous texture also serves as a wonderful base for under-eye concealer, feeling a bit like a high quality primer rather than a typical eye cream. I honestly can't think of anything that this eye cream doesn't do exceedingly well. I'm utterly thrilled by the results, and am thrilled to have discovered this eye cream that boast great efficacy, ease of use, and a fantastic tactile experience. In short, this is a fantastic eye cream all the way around!

Overall assessment: What a fantastic eye cream! It brightens, tightens, moisturizes, nourishes, reduces the appearance of dark circles, and is an antioxidant rich anti-aging powerhouse! Well done, FutureDerm, well done!

$59.00 for 0.50 oz. Available from FutureDerm. (Unaffiliated Link)

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Empties Post Volume VIII: March 2013

This month I endeavored to use up as many sample packets and lip products as possible. I sought to be pragmatic because I had been down with a nasty cold and wanted to avoid infecting full-sized products. 

Full-Size Products: *Remedy with Phytoplex Hydrating Cleansing Gel (reviewed here). MAC Volcanic Ash Exfoliator (reviewed here), and *FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.50 (reviewed here).

I really loved using the Remedy Hydrating Cleansing Gel for shaving because it left my skin indescribably smooth and soft. I really liked the MAC Volcanic Ash Exfoliator, and am pleased that it is finally part of their permanent collection, but I probably won't repurchase it since I have other physical exfoliants that I prefer to this one.  FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.50 is a highly effective  and gentle retinol-based product. I liked it so much that I opened up the pump bottle and scraped out every last bit. Once I finish using my other retinols- I will definitely purchase another bottle of this great product.

Lip Products: EOS Sweet Mint Lip Balm (reviewed here), *Reviva Labs Vitamin E Oil Stick (reviewed here), Eve Lom Kiss Mix (reviewed here), Bonne Bell Lip Smacker (Watermelon, Vanilla, and Strawberry reviewed here), *Remedy Phytoplex Lip Balm (reviewed here), and Korres Lip Butter in Jasmine (reviewed here).

I made it my goal to finish up all of my nearly completely used up lip balms, and it was fairly easy to do for two reasons: 1) each of them had very little left, and 2) I had been sick with that awful cold, and for the most part was unwilling to infect newer lip balms. My disastrously chapped lips were cracked and on the verge of bleeding at the height of my cold, therefore requiring constant reapplication. I felt so satisfied when I realized that I had actually finished up an unprecedented 8 lip balms, but to be fair the contents of these 8 lip balms amounted to no more than 2 full-sized products, and they were used over the period of about 3 weeks. I did scrape out the last bits in order to recycle the packaging- so I really did use every last bit.

Samples Galore: I have continued to work my way through my samples, and I really managed to use up quite a few. I relied upon samples for my cleansers, makeup removers, lotions, serums, masks, cotton pads, scrubs, sunscreen, eye creams, and anything else that I could find to use during that time. The Tatcha Classic Rice Enzyme Powder, Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Cloths, and The Organic Pharmacy serums all rank amongst my favorites- and I have full sizes of each that I covet!

Makeup: MAC Select Moisturecover Concealer. I have had this concealer for so long that if I hadn't finished it I would have tossed it. I liked it a good deal, but was ready to move on to the next thing once I made my way to the bottom of the tube. 

*Denotes Press Samples.

What did you use up, toss out, give away, or return this month?

Perhaps the best anthem for Empties!

The Beauty Spotlight Team Sends Helen from Lola's Secret Beauty Blog to Their Desert Island- What Were My Must-Have Beauty Picks?

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When it was my time to be dropped off on The Beauty Spotlight Team Desert Island I found myself enchanted by the idea of getting away from the stress of work and peacefully sitting on the beach and sipping a Mojito. That I was only allowed to take 12 items on this adventure meant that I really had to think through what I absolutely needed to have under those circumstances. The choices that I did make needed to be pragmatic, and the products needed to rank among my favorites, whenever possible. I also decided to take a more literal approach to being abandoned on a desert island. Realizing that I would have little need for makeup- I opted to make it all about skincare (both face and body). The nearby residing mermen provide the island guests with sunscreen and lip balm- therefore I was not required to bring those two items with me since they were available in limitless supply.

I didn't bring tweezers or a razor in order to eliminate unwanted hair- because I assumed that the mermen were adept at using found objects on the island to take care of such matters (these mermen are sea spa certified aestheticians, and are both inventive and highly skilled at their craft). I am, therefore, embracing the idea that my island getaway is ostensibly a beauty retreat. I also didn't bring shampoo, conditioner, or a brush- because it is my hope that my ingenious mermen will have a solution, or that one of my Beauty Spotlight Team friends left some of these items behind. However, in a pinch I can always use a few of my beauty products to keep my hair clean and conditioned.

I decided that since I was going to be exposed to the elements that I needed to bring lots of serums and potions that would fight free-radicals, and offer plenty of added anti-aging protection. My rationale was that anti-aging products coupled with a high SPF sunscreen would combat the aging effects of my exposure to the elements, and by the time that I was rescued my skin would be healthy, glowing, and gorgeous.

For the Face:

For the Body:

The individual products:

1) FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 (reviewed here): I swear by high quality retinol based products- they keep skin clear and lines at bay. I use it at night only, and then load up on sunscreen the following day to keep my skin ultra-protected after treatment (retinol can cause photosensitivity- therefore it is imperative to use a sunscreen everyday). My exposure to the elements on the desert island requires that I take extra good care of my skin- therefore I knew that I had to bring this retinol with me!

2) vbeauté It Kit (reviewed here): The It Kit includes large travel sizes of Undercover Agent Anti-Wrinkle Protecting Serum (reviewed here), Rub Off Gentle Facial Exfoliator (reviewed here), Evidence Eraser Gentle Foaming Cleanser (reviewed here), Buying Time Everyday Crème (reviewed here) and Eye Never Nourishing Repair Eye Crème (reviewed here). The It Kit is the perfect skincare travel companion because it really does include everything that you need for a getaway. I will use these products day and night, and the result will be gorgeous, clean, glowing skin. The carrying case is so chic, and it includes a nice big mirror that I will surely use daily on the island. 

3) Koh Gen Do Cleansing Water (reviewed here): This amazing cleansing water will be the perfect must-have beauty treat while I am a resident on the Beauty Spotlight Team Desert Island. Not only is it a refreshing tonic for the skin, that I can use whenever my skin feels a little dirty, but it can also be used it lieu of a cleanser whenever I'm too tired to wash my face. 

4) The Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Face Firming Serum (review forthcoming).

5) The Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Face Gel (review forthcoming).

6) The Organic Pharmacy Rose Plus Marine Collagen Complex (review forthcoming).

These three serums can be used individually or in concert, and when combined they are a triple threat in the realm of anti-aging products. The Antioxidant Face Firming Serum is a lovely face oil that has the fresh bouquet of oranges and orange blossom. It effortlessly melts into the skin leaving behind an amazing glow and exquisite hydration. When used with the Antioxidant Face Gel and Rose Plus Marine Collagen Complex, the skin is not only protected against free radicals, but the texture and clarity of the skin are markedly improved. My skin looks bright, clear, hydrated, and utterly amazing because of these three little bottles! They definitely rank among my greatest recent skincare discoveries, and will serve me well on the Desert Island (and when I return to civilization).

7) vbeauté Lip Spread (reviewed here): Lip Spread was chosen for this trip not only because it is filled with anti-aging properties, but also because it is a gorgeous pink-tinted lip gloss that I can also use lightly on my cheeks if I want an added pop of color. This is one of those Holy Grail products that I won't leave  home without, and it was an obvious choice for my Desert Island retreat.

8) My Prime Skin Recovery Formula (reviewed here): This is an amazing serum that is a very lightweight skin-brightening treatment that gives skin an unmistakable dewy glow while simultaneously targeting skin damage. I wouldn't even consider braving the elements of the Desert Island retreat without having this little beauty warrior in my arsenal. This corrective serum will offset any inadvertent damage that the island weather conditions may cause, and the more prepared that I am- the better are my chances of maintaining beautiful and healthy skin! No desert island destination would be complete without the inclusion of this Holy Grail skincare magician! 

9) Kate Somerville Exfolikate (reviewed here): While I do have a lovely exfoliator in my It Kit, I still had to include Exfolikate. Exfolikate is no normal exfoliator, instead it resides somewhere between a peel and a physical exfoliant. Exfolikate literally melts away dead skin because of all of the fruit enzymes and Salicylic Acid, and the effects are truly remarkable. It is a very powerful treatment that reduces the appearance of fine lines, gives the skin an unbelievable glow, and unclogs pores. On the evenings that I use this, I will skip my retinol, and just use a serum and moisturizer. I will continually repurchase this unbelievably effective product.

10) Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Body Oil (reviewed here): This is definitely my very favorite body oil of all time. It is luxurious and delightfully moisturizing- making it an obvious choice. I can also use it in my hair for added moisture and conditioning. 

11) Sponge Galaktoma Somatos Body Lotion (reviewed here): This gorgeous body lotion is filled with all sorts of anti-aging ingredients, and it was for this reason that I decided to bring it to use in conjunction with Olio Lusso. I will need to treat the rest of my body with the same care and respect that I would my face, and this lotion will offer ample protection.

12) kai deodorant (reviewed here): This is definitely my very favorite deodorant, and the lovely floral scent evokes an island paradise- therefore it is befitting that it would be one of my twelve choices. 

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The gracious mermen told me that they would bring me any lip balm and sunscreen that I would like to use during my stay- even if my choices were extravagant. I needed no time to decide what I wanted- so I submitted my order, and then waited on the beach for the merman to arrive.

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Poor Sebastian the merman was swimming as fast as he could to make the delivery! And once he arrived, he handed me these three magical Holy Grail products and made me a Mojito. We chatted and he told me about some of the beauty treatments that I would be enjoying while getting some much needed R&R!

Since the sunscreens and lip balms were being provided to me in a limitless supply, I decided to use my beloved Clarins UV PLUS HP Ecran Multi-Protection SPF 40 (reviewed here) from head to toe! I also decided that I would choose two lip balms instead of just one because Sebastian suggested that some variation would be good. He asserted that I should use one with sunscreen for day use, and another without for use during the evenings. I chose my beloved Rodin Olio Lusso Lip Balm for the evenings (enthusiastically reviewed here), and the glorious By Terry Baume de Rose (reviewed here) for the days that I frolic in the sun since it contains an SPF. Between these two lip balms and my Lip Spread Anti-Age Tinting Lip Gloss- I will be set!

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After Sebastian swam away, I crawled into my hammock and took the most peaceful nap without a worry or a care. Later I will take a nice long walk on the beach, and a dip in the ocean to hang out with the school of mermen. My stay on this lovely island is so peaceful that I might just hide when the Beauty Spotlight Team comes to retrieve me after my two week stay comes to an end!

While I am decidedly a city girl, and my idea of the perfect island looks more like this- I have to admit the peace and quiet of the Beauty Spotlight Team Desert Island offered me a level of relaxation that is seldom found in the midst of a busy bustling city.

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FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.50- Review!

I was among the very lucky beauty bloggers to receive FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 to review, and I was thrilled to be included for several reasons. First, I love using retinol-based products; Second, fellow beauty blogger, Nicki Zevola, from FutureDerm is the creative genius behind this fantastic product; and third I was in the market for a new retinol because I had just finished up a bottle. I have used retinol at night for a long time, and I was thrilled to try this one because I had heard so many wonderful things about it. In fact, I ended up loving FutureDerm Retinol so much that I specifically mentioned it when I was interviewed by Kelsie Blazier for REDBOOK Magazine here. (For an overview to my interview, click here).

FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 is a lightweight gel formula with microencapsulated 0.5% retinol. FutureDerm argues that their 0.5% formula "is clinically proven by research studies to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by 30% within the first two weeks of use. Retinol works largely by increasing cellular turnover and downgrading matrix metalloproteinases (enzymes that degrade collagen)."

According to FutureDerm, their Time-Release Retinol 0.5:

• Is micro encapsulated and time-released for maximum effectiveness
• Contains 0.5% Retinol, the proven most effective concentration 
• Fights fine lines and wrinkles
• Smooths mottled or rough skin
• Aids mild to moderate acne
• Alleviates the appearance of age spots 
• Maintains and build skin firmness
• Has an optimized efficacy and stability based on independent and scientific studies

A concentrated retinol formula, FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 contains 0.5% microencapsulated retinol in a lightweight gel formula that is perfect for use together with your other favorite moisturizers.  Most retinoid creams are thicker, taking up to 30 minutes to fully absorb into the skin.  Ours absorbs in under a second, so you don’t have to wait before applying other moisturizers. FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 is designed to optimize the retinol activation process within the skin.  Retinol must be converted to isotretinoin by enzymes called retinyl ester hydrolases in order to become active within the skin.  Our formulation is designed to increase the efficiency of this process with an optimized delivery system and conditions. Our retinol is also microencapsulated, targeting retinoid receptors in the skin for a full eight hours.  This makes FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5 ideal for nighttime use.

How to Use: For best results, FutureDerm suggests that you apply a pea-sized amount to thoroughly cleansed skin the evening.  As with most retinol products, it is important to carefully avoid contact with the delicate eye area. "If you have never used microencapsulated retinol products before, there may be a transitional period.  Begin by limiting use to two times per week, and then gradually increase frequency to every other night, and finally once an evening as tolerated.  As with many products, best results can be achieved under the supervision of a health care professional."

My experience with FutureDerm Retinol 0.5: First of all, I must preface my assessment by stating that my skin was already quite acclimated to the use of retinol at night at the time that I began using FutureDerm Retinol 0.5. I have used retinol for a long time, therefore I cannot determine how my skin would have reacted to the FutureDerm Retinol had I made the transition from no retinol based night treatments to this one. My experience instead was from the point of view of switching from one retinol product to another. I had a good idea of what I might expect, and I didn't expect to experience any visible peeling, redness, or irritation that commonly accompanies the use of such products- particularly at the beginning. What I didn't expect were changes for the better-I expected more of a stasis. However,  my skin texture actually improved while using FutureDerm! I was using a higher percentage retinol (1%) prior to FutureDerm, and yet my skin looks better after using FutureDerm! It has a pronounced clarity and evenness of tone, hyperpigmented areas from sun damage look better, fine lines are softened, and the texture is even more smooth. Therefore, you can imagine my amazement and elation when my skin actually looked better than before! Retinol is great for keeping acne and wrinkles/fine lines in check, and is probably about as close as one can get to the ever sought after fountain of youth- making it a favorite among dermatologists and enthusiasts alike.

This formula is very gentle and does not dry out or dehydrate my skin in the least bit. That said, as previously noted my skin is accustomed to retinol, and you may experience some drying and flaking as often occurs when retinol begins working its magic. I apply it at night  to freshly cleansed skin and then use a face oil or a face cream over it, and that's it. When I wake up the following morning my skin looks fresh, smooth, and radiant. As with all retinol based products, they have a tendency to cause photosensitivity. Therefore, it is imperative to use a sunscreen when you add retinol based treatments into your skincare ritual. I never leave the house without an SPF 40 all over my face, neck and any other exposed areas. I also would not use this in conjunction with other AHAs, Fruit Acids. Lactic Acids etc. In is inadvisable to overwork or over-process the skin as it can lead to thinning and a plethora of problems. When I use this at night I am careful not to use any other peeling or heavy exfoliating agents because this is plenty effective by itself.

Ingredients: 0.5% Retinol, Aqua, Glycerin (hydrator), Alcohol (thins the solution), Octyldodecanol (emulsifier), Butylene Glycol (thins the solution), cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone (emulsifier), Allyl  Metacrylates Crosspolymer (film-forming agent), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), Salix Alba Bark Extract (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (anti-inflammatory), BHT (antioxidant), Tocopherol (antioxidant), PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate (emollient), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (thickening agent), Triethanolamine (pH adjuster), Propylene Glycol (thins the solution), Diazolidinyl Urea (antimicrobial preservative), Propylparaben (antimicrobial preservative), Methylparaben (antimicrobial preservative).

FutureDerm maintains very high standards of safety: "This product is tested for safety and efficacy and physician-approved. The ingredients used are deemed to be safe and highly efficacious in the concentrations they are used in this product, even with typical repeated use over time. As with any product, please use for external use only. Keep out of reach of children.  Avoid contact with eyes.  Discontinue for a week before hair removal waxing. Do not use if undergoing a skin peeling regimen.  Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing. Please use with a broad-spectrum sunscreen."

Overall assessment: This is a really excellent retinol, and it beats anything that I have tried to date, and at a fraction of the price.  I highly recommend FutureDerm Retinol if you are in the market for a retinol based product. That said, retinol based products are not for everyone and it isn't a bad idea to consult with your physician before adding retinol into your routine. Additionally, people with very sensitive skin often cannot tolerate retinol products, and should once again consult with a physician or dermatologist before using retinol. FutureDerm is Cruelty Free!

1 oz. $54.95 from FutureDerm and Amazon.
PR sample sent for consideration, but all views expressed are categorically my own.

September Favorites!

This month I decided to feature products that I am coveting right now, but that I haven't yet reviewed (save for two items that I just reviewed this week). These are either new products in my arsenal, or those that I have recently rediscovered and am reaching for with great frequency. I am hopelessly smitten with these products, and this post is my Ode to them! That said, I will keep my comments short and sweet since I will be reviewing each of them individually in the coming weeks.

Skincare Products Left to Right and Clockwise:
1) Sponge Krema Imeras (Anti-Aging Day Cream)- I am generally not prone to purchasing skincare products before trying a sample first since my combination skin can, at times, be rather reactive to new things. However, I am so taken by Sponge Skincare products, and they work so well for me that I wasn't at all reluctant to buy Krema Imeras before trying it. This is an antioxidant rich anti-aging daily moisturizer that is infused with Linden, Sage and Rosemary. The smell is delectable and it feels divine on the skin. I'm so glad that I bought this-- it's definitely another hit from Sponge!

2) Sponge Krema Triantafillo (Rose Sage Cream)- I tried several sample packets of Krema Triantafillo, and knew that I was going to buy a bottle before I finished the first packet. This lovely cream can be used day or night and is a sumptuous tactile experienced. It is infused with Rose Hips and Sage and was specifically formulated for sensitive skin. It is light and hydrating, and it feels soothing and comfortable on the skin.

3) Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Face Oil- Olio Lusso is an ultra luxurious face oil that I am finding rather addictive and intoxicating. First of all this delightful elixir smells of Jasmine which is known for having a calming effect, and which is an effective skin softener. What I find remarkable about this oil is how quickly it sinks into the skin (more so than any other face oil that I have used) and leaves it hydrated and glowing. I was concerned that I would be off put by the scent, but instead am delighted by it. The scent does fade, but the benefits of this liquid gold do not! I'm in love!

5) Tatcha Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder- This is simply an extraordinary product. This is a water activated enzyme powder that exfoliates the skin without any harsh abrasives, and it literally leaves your skin baby soft. Unbelievable product!

6) FutureDerm Time-Release Retinol 0.5- I love using retinol products at night, and this one is a highly effective gel-based formula that packs a real punch. While it is gentle, it really means business. It also has a very reasonable price point- which is even better!

7) Reviva Labs Microdermabrasion Pomegranate Scrub (reviewed here)- This is the best scrub that I have tried in a very long time. It is so gentle and effective, and my skin is glowing and smooth with a renewed clarity after use.

8) Tatcha One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil- I am a big fan of cleansing oils, and this is the best one that I have ever tried. It is formulated without mineral oil, and is ideal for all skin types according to Tatcha. It cleans everything off of my skin effortlessly.

9) Rodin Olio Lusso Lip Balm (reviewed here)- This is my new favorite lip balm, without question. It leaves my lips so hydrated, and it feels so comfortable on the lips. It doesn't hurt that the gorgeous minimal modern packaging is so lovely to behold either.

Haircare Products Left to Right:
1) Aubrey Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Shampoo- I have used this shampoo at many different times over the years, but hadn't used it in a long time. It is a low lather ultra moisturizing natural shampoo that is perfect for my naturally curly hair. The smell is delicious, but does fade. I forgot how much I loved this shampoo!

2) Aubrey Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Conditioner- This really is the perfect companion to their Honeysuckle Rose Shampoo. This conditioner is ultra moisturizing, and it leaves my hair with soft curls.

3) Rodin By Recine Luxury Hair Oil- Just a few drops of this wondrous oil, and my hair is soft, manageable, and shiny. I like to use it as a styling aid by adding a few drops to my damp hair, but it can also be used as a scalp treatment, a deep conditioner, and can be brushed from roots to tips. This magical blend of oils is truly amazing!

4) Oribe Curl By Definition Crème- This is one of the best curl enhancing creams that I have ever used! It leaves curls soft and frizz-free without ever being crunchy!! It also imparts a luminous shine that is simply gorgeous!

5) scrünci hair ties- I love these hair ties! They are inexpensive, they don't pull the hair, and they are so easy to find!

Body Products:
1) Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Body Oil- Like the face oil, the body oil is ultra moisturizing. This oil smells delightful, just like the face oil, and it also sinks in very fast. It leaves the skin glowing and soft,  and it is simply divine.

2) Kiss My Face Active Life Stick-Cucumber Green Tea Deodorant- While my uncontested favorite deodorant is the lovely one made by Kai, I always have more than one deodorant in rotation at a given time (usually about three of them, actually). I love Kiss My Face products, and so when I was at Whole Foods the other day I picked this one up because it smelled so yummy. I really like it, and it works well.

Makeup Left to Right:
1) Rouge Bunny Rouge Forever Yours...Long-Lasting Lip Pencil in Roald (Pure matte, pale mauve)- Rouge Bunny Rouge definitely makes my very favorite lip pencils, and Roald is a real stunner. Their lip pencils are creamy, long lasting, beautifully pigmented, and gorgeous!

2) Le Métier de Beauté  Sheer Brilliance Lip Gloss in Uma Paro- This is the perfect vampy lip gloss for people afraid to wear bold vampy lipsticks.  Of course you can wear it on top of a vampy lipstick, like Bali, to really vamp it up-- but you can also sheer it out and wear it alone! The formula is superb, and it is moisturizing and non-sticky-- making it an amazing product.

3) Rouge Bunny Rouge Sweet Excesses Glassy Gloss in Mousse Fandango (dark tone milky pink with the barest whispers of grayish mauve and a touch of silver micro pearls)- The Sweet Excesses Glassy Gloss formula is extraordinary. It imparts a brilliant shine, is non-sticky, and is moisturizing. Mousse Fandango is a lovely milky pink that is a bit more sheer than pigmented, and it gives lips the perfect pink pout.

4) Rouge Bunny Rouge Succulence of Dew Sheer Lipstick in Murmurings (Wet effect, sheer cool damson)- Murmurings is a plummy red hue with a touch of brown. The sheer formula is somewhat buildable, and it leaves your lips with the perfect moist shine. There is the perfect amount of cushion, and this formula is inherently comfortable on the lips. I love this color, and I find it so easy to wear.

5) Rouge Bunny Rouge When Birds Are Singing- Long-lasting Eye Shadow in Solstice Halcyon (Semi-matte mauve beige)- I would say that Solstice is more of a mauve beige taupe in color, and a gorgeous one at that. The formula is soft and silky, applies like a dream, and looks amazing on. This is the perfect shadow when you want a wash of color with some eyeliner and that's it. This is definitely one of my all-time favorite eye shadows.

6) MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Eyes Mat Black OL- Once you apply this pencil, it really won't budge. It's truly an amazing eye pencil.