Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Mandy Aftel's New Book Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems

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My wonderful friend, and world-renowned natural perfumer, Mandy Aftel, has just published her latest book: Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems, and it is not to be missed. That Mandy is as brilliant a writer as she is a perfumer cannot be sufficiently underscored. Her creative genius and intellectual curiosity is evident in all of her endeavors, and her elegant writing is sure to delight all of her readers.

This extraordinary undertaking, in writing about Baroque emblems, is articulated with precision, but in a very approachable and edifying way. If you are at all curious about the iconography of the extraordinary emblems discussed in this book, then you will be utterly delighted from the first page turn to the last. This is a stunning achievement, and a book that is most certainly worthy of your collection.

About the Author,

Mandy Aftel, an internationally known artisan perfumer and authority on natural fragrance, is the owner of Aftelier Perfumes and the Aftel Archive of Curious Scents in Berkeley, California. Her other books include Essence and Alchemy: A Natural History of Perfume, which helped sparked the natural perfume renaissance and has been translated into sixteen languages. Aftel's work has been featured in the New York Times, Vogue, Vanity Fair, and numerous other major outlets.
Publisher: ‎ Abbeville Press
Publication date: ‎ December 16, 2025
Language: ‎ English
Print length: ‎ 224 pages
ISBN-10: ‎0789215225
ISBN-13: ‎978-0789215222

About Symbolorum: The Secret Wisdom of Emblems,

Discover the esoteric insights and enchanting imagery of the Baroque emblem book, a long-lost cousin of the tarot.

The emblem book, which reached the peak of its popularity in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, presented mysterious allegorical images―rather like those we now find on tarot cards―alongside Latin mottoes. A learned text explained the connection between image and motto, and the lessons each emblem held for the reader’s life. Drawing on sources such as medieval bestiaries and Aesop’s fables, emblem books reflected an enchanted view of nature in which our human lives were intertwined with plants, animals, the moon and the stars.

World-renowned natural perfumer Mandy Aftel first encountered emblem books in the course of her researches into antique botanical illustrations, and quickly became entranced. Here she presents one hundred emblems from perhaps the finest emblem book, the Symbolorum et Emblematum of Camerarius, originally published in four parts between 1590 and 1604. Aftel has sensitively tinted in watercolor the bewitching circular engravings of the Symbolorum, in which giant hands reach from the sky; lions, bears, and unicorns gambol; and distant spires beckon. The mottoes and explanatory texts are given in translation from the original Latin, along with Aftel’s own commentary. An illustrated introduction illuminates the history and magic of emblem book.

Symbolorum will be a treasure for anyone who is drawn to uncover ancient wisdom and feel the breath of the universe.

Overall Assessment: What a stunning book, and such a distinctly delightful and satisfying read.

$20.00 from Aftelier Perfumes and Amazon (Affiliate Links). 

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Blink Eye Repair Peptide Complex Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Blink Eye Repair Peptide Complex is a wonderful eye cream, with its own cooling magnetic applicator built into the lid. The peptide-rich eye cream is lightweight, fast absorbing and emollient. It melts into the skin and leaves behind no greasy residue. The metal applicator is magnetic and attaches to the lid, and its convex surface protrudes enough to fit perfectly under the eyes. Gently gliding it back and forth has a wonderful cooling effect that helps reduce any puffiness. This eye cream leaves the delicate skin under the eyes soft, moisturized, nourished, smooth and supple. Additionally, the caffeine reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, while the Niacinamide and Vitamin C brighten the skin, and the Hyaluronic Acid plumps fine lines and deeply hydrates. Furthermore, the peptides smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Overall, this is a very effective eye cream that lives up to its claims and that is a real pleasure to use.

According to blinc,

A clean, vegan, and gluten-free eye treatment that visibly smooths, firms, and brightens while restoring the delicate skin barrier. A next-generation peptide complex that merges clinical efficacy with comfort, enhanced by a patented magnetic massaging applicator to stimulate circulation and optimize absorption. Clean, USA-made, and science-backed, it delivers proven results without compromise.

Directions: Apply a pea-sized amount to your ring fingers and gently pat around the eye area and brow bone. Use the innovative magnetic applicator to massage under and around the eye to support enhanced blood flow, nourish skin cells, and ensure efficient delivery of these powerful ingredients. Clean the applicator after each use with soap and water. Not to be applied in the eye—external use only.

Features and Claims:

  • Peptide-powered renewal: Bio-peptides help firm and smooth while improving tone and elasticity.
  • Instant depuff & brighten: Caffeine, Niacinamide, and Vitamin C target puffiness and dark circles for a refreshed, rested look.
  • Hydration that lasts: Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, and Vegan Lipids replenish moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.
  • Balanced by science: Rosewater Ferment helps even tone and nurture a healthy microbiome.
  • Magnetic precision applicator: The built-in cooling wand gently massages the under-eye area to boost circulation, reduce puffiness, and enhance ingredient absorption.

Key Ingredients and Their Attributes:

    • Caffeine: Reduces puffiness and dark circles.
    • Niacinamide & Vitamin C: Brighten and improve tone and firmness.
    • Hyaluronic Acid: Deeply hydrates and plumps.
    • Bio-Peptides: Smooth, firm, and help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
    • Squalane & Vegan Lipids: Replenish hydration and support barrier repair.
    • Rosewater Ferment: Enhances radiance and helps reduce discoloration.

    Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Propanediol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Isopropyl Myristate, Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, Rosa Damascena Flower Extract, Caffeine, Silica, Glycereth-7 Triacetate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Sucrose, Glyceryl Stearate, Behenyl Alcohol, Potassium Hydroxide, C14-22 Alcohols, Arachidyl Glucoside, 1,2-Hexanediol, Squalane, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycolic Acid, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Beta-Sitosterol, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax / Cire de Candelilla, Oleic Acid, Phytic Acid, Glyceryl Behenate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Sodium Lactate, Potassium Carbonate, Sodium Benzoate, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Lauryl Glucoside, Lecithin, Potassium Sorbate, Ceramide NG, Tocopherol, Ceramide NP, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-11, Glucose, Copper Tripeptide-1.
    Overall Assessment: I really love the efficacy of this formula, and the applicator makes using this eye cream a real uplifting treat.

    $38.00 for .50 oz. from blinc, Ulta, Nordstrom, Macy's, YesStyle and Amazon (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

    Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

    Monday, January 12, 2026

    Current Sales and New Markdowns at Nordstrom

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    Nordstrom is having tons of NEW markdowns and Clearance items! I spend a long time looking at the sale items and there are some spectacular savings on top products from top brands. If you are planning to do holiday shopping this year, then this it is worth taking a look at this sale!

    Nordstrom has tons of new markdowns that they have added to their current sale, and they have so many great beauty finds on saleI spend a long time looking at the sale items and there are some spectacular savings on top products from top brands.


    Sunday, January 11, 2026

    The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team January Week in Review

    If you are seeking an affordable and effective retinol to add to your skincare routine, then Lola's Secret Beauty Blog highly recommends Nurive CoreVital Retinol Cream

    Nancy from Nancy's Fashion Style discusses her Christmas and what else was going on in her life. Also, last Friday's Fancy Friday linkup party is open and you are invited to join!

    Terri from Our Good Life discusses a practical closet exercise to help you use your best colors to create outfits you actually wear and love. By grouping clothes by color,  you can build a wardrobe that feels cohesive, confident, and easy to live in.

    As part of her Style Tips Series, Angie from Your True Self Blog shares how to use the amazing powers of a cardigan two ways.

    Looking to start 2026 with a little lifting and sculpting? Your face but with topicals! Allison from Never Say Die Beauty has a skincare duo from a clean beauty brand that she swears by to recommend to you.

    Saturday, January 10, 2026

    Tatcha Lucky Bag Gift with Purchase Event Through January 18

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    The Tatcha Lucky Bag Event starts is happening now through January 18th. Receive a complimentary lucky bag with your $100.00 or $200.00 purchase. Use Code: LUCKY26
    *Receive a complimentary lucky bag with your $100+ or $200+ USD order after discount with code: LUCKY26. Promotion valid through 11:59 PM PT on 1/18/2026. Click here to learn more. Qualifying gifts are while supplies last and are subject to change. Promotions and discounts cannot be applied to previous purchases, gift cards, taxes, shipping or processing charges or combined with any other coupons or discounts. Valid on in-stock items only. Qualifying amount is the subtotal of the purchase and does not include taxes, shipping or gift wrapping. Gifts with purchase are not eligible for return or exchange. We reserve the right to cancel any order due to unauthorized, altered or ineligible use of offer and to modify or cancel this promotion due to system error or unforeseen problems.

    Friday, January 9, 2026

    UA Hawai'i Kupu Eau de Parfum Review

    Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

    UA Hawai'i Kupu Eau de Parfum is yet another beautiful fragrance from this exquisite Hawaiian brand, and it is a delight to the senses, to be sure. There is something indescribably magical about this unusual fragrance. This is an ultra clean, green scent that has an added dimension from the base notes of Amber, Cedar and Musk. They add a richness without in any way overshadowing the light and green sensibility. It achieves what seems like an impossible balance between what might be considered competing notes, but instead these notes commingle beautifully. This fragrance sits close to the skin, and invites the constant sniffing of one's wrist. 

    UA Hawai'i Kupu Eau de Parfum Notes:
    Top: Fern, Coconut Water, Earth
    Mid: Oakmoss, Magnolia, Vanilla Blossom
    Base: Amber, Cedar, Musk
    According to UA Hawai'i,

    Growing up in Hawai’i taught me to have a deep connection and respect for the island. From snow-capped Mauna Kea to Kīlauea with its lava reaching down to the ocean, this unique island connects us to the elements from which the islands were formed and from which all life springs. It’s this connection to the island that inspired me to create these scents.

    Each fragrance embodies these qualities to immerse yourself in: Mana / Power, Pōhaku / Stone, Kupu / Grow, Wena / Glow, Nalu/ Wave, and Hā / Breath. I wanted to share that experience through fragrance.

    Just as none of the elements are singular in nature, we invite you to layer in creating your own sense of expression. Whether it's combining fire and water with Wena and Kai, or centering on Hā and Mana, there are elements to explore in creating your personal fragrance.
    Ingredients: Sugarcane Alcohol (Ethyl Alcohol), Fragrance/Parfum, Aqua/Water/Eau.
    Overall Assessment: This is a truly exceptional fragrance, and I am madly in love with the way that it sits quietly against the skin emitting the most delectable light aroma.

    $32.00 for .34 oz. from UA Hawai'i (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

    Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

    Thursday, January 8, 2026

    Crate & Barrel Up to 60% Off Clearance Sale

    (Affiliate Links)

    Crate & Barrel is having an up to 60% Off Sale on their clearance section across departments, and there are so many amazing products included in the sale. I regularly shop their sales, and I have found some of my most prized items for my kitchen and home from them. I have scored amazing Emile Henry baking dishes during their sales, and there are currently a few on clearance now. There are many additions to the sale, and many that I am finding too hard to resist. It is worth taking a look if you are looking to find some great deals. They are also having lots of other sales, but I found some treasures on clearance!

    Wednesday, January 7, 2026

    UA Hawai'i Hā Eau de Parfum Review

    Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

    UA Hawai'i Hā Eau de Parfum is yet another gorgeous fragrance from this enchanting Hawaiian brand. This fragrance boasts a warm and soft woodsy aroma that is punctuated by the creamy Vanilla Flower and citrus. It is inviting, alluring and sits close to the skin. As it dries down, the citrus emerges, but the sharp edges are rounded out by the warmth of the other carefully selected notes. This fragrance is calming, grounding and a lovely discovery.

    Hā Eau de Parfum Notes:
    Top Notes: Coconut Waters, Bergamot, Lemon Peel
    Mid Notes: Clove, Fir Needle, Lime Blossom
    Base Notes: Cedarwood, Vanilla Flower, Oakmoss, Santal

    Ingredients: Sugarcane Alcohol (Ethyl Alcohol), Fragrance/Parfum, Aqua/Water/Eau.
    According to UA Hawai'i,

    Growing up in Hawai’i taught me to have a deep connection and respect for the island. From snow-capped Mauna Kea to Kīlauea with its lava reaching down to the ocean, this unique island connects us to the elements from which the islands were formed and from which all life springs. It’s this connection to the island that inspired me to create these scents.

    Each fragrance embodies these qualities to immerse yourself in: Mana / Power, Pōhaku / Stone, Kupu / Grow, Wena / Glow, Nalu/ Wave, and Hā / Breath. I wanted to share that experience through fragrance.

    Just as none of the elements are singular in nature, we invite you to layer in creating your own sense of expression. Whether it's combining fire and water with Wena and Kai, or centering on Hā and Mana, there are elements to explore in creating your personal fragrance.
    Overall Assessment: This fragrance is so lovely and calming to the senses, and I am thrilled that I discovered this brand.

    $32.00 for .34 oz. from UA Hawai'i (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

    Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

    Tuesday, January 6, 2026

    Sephora Beauty Insider Birthday Gifts for 2026

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    Sephora Beauty Insider Birthday Gifts for 2026 are now available! This year there are six gifts from which to choose, and one exclusively available to VIB and VIB Rouge members. One is free with a $25.00 minimum purchase. Visit: www.sephora.com

    Beauty Insiders can redeem one birthday gift per year in Sephora US and Canada stores, on sephora.com and Sephora Canada, in Sephora at Kohl’s stores, and on kohls.com, while supplies last. See gifts below.
    A purchase of $25 or more is required for online redemption on sephora.com and sephora.ca. Minimum purchase threshold determined before taxes and shipping and after all discounts have been taken. Gift selection may vary when shopping in store or online. A birthday gift of 250 points is available in Sephora US and Canada stores and on sephora.com and sephora,ca only. Online-exclusive birthday gifts are redeemable by VIB and Rouge clients only and are not available on kohls.com. Redeem two weeks before or after your birthday or any time during your birthday month. Birthday gift is provided “as is.” Substitutions may occur. All applicable Beauty Insider program terms apply. Sephora may modify or cancel offer at any time. 

    Monday, January 5, 2026

    UA Hawai'i Pohaku Stone Eau de Parfum Review

    Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

    As you are likely aware, I became acquainted with the lovely fragrances made by UA Hawai'i last year, and I have been enjoying them ever since. Recently, I have been wearing UA Hawai'i Pōhaku Eau de Parfum, and it may actually be my favorite one, so far. 

    Pōhaku Eau de Parfum Notes:
    Top Notes: Midnight Breeze, Cyclamen Flower, Clove
    Mid Notes: Eucalyptus, Jasmine, Amber
    Base Notes: Patchouli, Cedar, Musk

    The magical blend of top, middle and base notes create a complex symphony of scents that mingle in the most beautiful and ethereal way. The top notes, punctuated by the clove is tempered by the Jasmine and Cyclamen flowers, and then the aroma is deepened by the Amber, Patchouli, Cedar and Musk. This beautiful combination transforms into a warm and creamy floral with a musk undertone, and it is an utter delight to the senses. As is the case with their other fragrances, I find that Pohaku Stone Eau de Parfum sits close to the skin, and it never enters a room before I do. It is sophisticated and a subtle treat to the senses.

    According to UA Hawai'i,

    Growing up in Hawai’i taught me to have a deep connection and respect for the island. From snow-capped Mauna Kea to Kīlauea with its lava reaching down to the ocean, this unique island connects us to the elements from which the islands were formed and from which all life springs. It’s this connection to the island that inspired me to create these scents.

    Each fragrance embodies these qualities to immerse yourself in: Mana / Power, Pōhaku / Stone, Kupu / Grow, Wena / Glow, Nalu / Wave, and Hā / Breath. I wanted to share that experience through fragrance.

    Just as none of the elements are singular in nature, we invite you to layer in creating your own sense of expression. Whether it's combining fire and water with Wena and Kai, or centering on Hā and Mana, there are elements to explore in creating your personal fragrance.

    Ingredients: Sugarcane Alcohol (Ethyl Alcohol), Fragrance/Parfum, Aqua/Water/Eau.
    Overall Assessment: I am delighted by UA Hawaii's fragrances, and I can't wait to share more of them with you.

    $32.00 for .34oz. from UA Hawai'i (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

    Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

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