SURFACE Violet Shampoo Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

 

I am a big fan of Surface haircare products, and this time I enlisted the help of my husband to review the Surface Violet Shampoo. This violet shampoo is formulated to treat the brassiness that often happens with blonde or grey hair, and since I have neither, and he has both, he was the perfect candidate. His hair, more specifically is brown the turns more blonde in the sun, and it is turning grey. Therefore, he uses shampoos that remove some of the brassiness, and that brighten and enhance the color of his hair. He has used many shampoos that do this, but none are as nice and luxurious as this one. It does not strip the hair, it tones down any brassiness and is gently cleans the hair. It is effective, has a wonderful light aroma, and does just what it is supposed to do.

According to Surface, 

Blonde toning shampoo.Tone, brighten and enhance while gently cleansing away impurities. Deep purple Maqui berry and Moringa Oil create a super fruit combination rich in antioxidants for blonde and grey hair.

Get perfect blonde locks with this purple toning shampoo that deposits color onto light brown to blonde hair. Surface Pure Blonde Violet Shampoo is infused with deep purple maqui berry and moringa oil to create the perfect tinted base for combating brassy tones. The formula nourishes and adds shine, all while protecting it from free radicals and preserving your blonde.

Directions: Apply to wet hair. Massage into lather. Let sit 2 - 5 minutes. Follow with Pure Blonde Violet Conditioner or Pure Blonde Nourishing Masque.

Ingredients: Aristotelia Chilensis Fruit Extract (Maqui Berry), Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Violet External 2 (Ci 60730), Glycereth-26, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Violet 2 (Ci 60725), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Ceramide Np, Tourmaline, Hydrolyzed Amaranth Protein, Lauryldimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Benzophenone-4, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Cocobetaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycol Distearate, Amodimethicone, C11-15 Pareth-7, Laureth-9, Glycerin, Trideceth-12, Decyl Glucoside, Divinyldimethicone/ Dimethicone Copolymer, C12-13 Pareth-23, C12-13 Pareth-3, Polyquaternium-7, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance/Parfum, Carbomer, Polyquaternium-10, Citric Acid, Ppg-5-Ceteth-20, Sodium Hydroxide, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Oil Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Water/Eau.

Overall Assessment: If you have blonde or gray hair, and want a violet shampoo to make your hair look and feel its best, then this is a worthwhile splurge.

$43.25 for 9oz., $100.00 for 33.8 oz. from Surface and Beauty Plus Salon (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own,

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

SEPHORA SAVINGS EVENT ENDS 11/9

(Affiliate Links)

The Sephora Savings Event is HERE! This is the perfect time to stock up on your favorites, or do some holiday shopping!

Rouge: 20% Off 10/30-11/9

VIB: 15% Off 11/3-11/9

Insider: 10% Off 11/3-119

Sephora Collection: 30% Off 10/30-11/9

The Sephora Collection is 30% Off from October 30-November 9. For all purchases, Use Code: ALLONSALE at checkout.

Details: 30% off Sephora Collection merchandise valid for Beauty Insider members 10/30/26–11/9/26 at 11:59pm PT. Offer only valid on Sephora Collection merchandise purchases made in Sephora US and Canada stores, Sephora at Kohl’s, Instacart, DoorDash, UberEats, on sephora.com, sephora,ca, and kohls,com. Must present coupon in store or enter code online. Buy Online, Pick Up In Store orders placed after 11/9/26 do not qualify. Not valid on in-store services, previous purchases, purchases of gift cards, purchases of Same-Day Unlimited subscriptions, packaging, taxes, or shipping and handling charges. Sephora/Kohl’s is not responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen offer materials. If discounted merchandise is returned, the actual price paid will be refunded. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with other promotional offers, Beauty Insider Cash, Rouge Cash, Rouge Reward, or rewards, except for Credit Card Rewards. Offer has no cash value and may not be altered, sold, bartered, or transferred. Cannot be used in conjunction with Sephora Savings Event discount. Sephora employees are not eligible. Sephora/Kohl’s may modify or cancel offer at any time, in its sole discretion.

Visit: www.sephora.com

UGG Valor Faux Fur Throw Blanket in Lotus Blossom Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

As you may recall, I recently purchased a couple of UGG Throw blankets for my living room. I selected them in the color Snow– which is a lovely cream color– but the moment that I saw the same throw in Lotus Blossom, I knew that I had to have it. It is a dusty, rosy pink that is utterly gorgeous. 

UGG Valor Faux Fur Throw Blanket in Lotus Blossom is a ridiculously soft, fluffy, plush and cozy throw with the same faux fur material on both sides. It feels ultra-luxurious and feels amazing against the skin. It is so cozy that I have already fallen asleep watching tv numerous times while enjoying this fabulous throw! It is 50" x 70" and therefore it is a generous sized throw. 

According to UGG,

The cozy vibes abound on this throw blanket cut from plush faux fur in a subtly striped design that'll make it the perfect addition to your favorite reading nook or corner of the sofa.

Features:

• 50" x 70"
• 100% polyester
• Machine wash in cold water, dry flat.

About UGG,

In 1978, an Australian surfer brought his beloved sheepskin boots to Southern California and founded UGG. By the mid 1980s, the brand had become a mainstay in surf shops up and down the coast and an icon of the beach lifestyle. Now loved everywhere by people who appreciate comfy style, UGG offers casual footwear and cozy items for the home, along with its signature boots. This brand meets Nordstrom Responsible Brands criteria: UGG has committed to science-based climate action, with targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the latest climate science. 

It is so unbelievably plush, soft and cozy!

Overall Assessment: I absolutely LOVE this throw, and and Lotus Blossom is the perfect rosy shade, it is not too pink, and the fabric feels amazing against the skin.

$110.00 from Macy's (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Welcomes November

Would you like to know how to dress down fancy jackets so you could wear yours more often? Angie from Your True Self Blog has an easy style tip that can help you make that happen. A simple little fantasy is all it takes to be able to wear them anytime.

If you are seeking an ultra-luxe shower gel, then Lola's Secret Beauty Blog highly recommends Philip B Forever Shine Body Wash. This rich and creamy woodsy Oud is blended to perfection with fruity and floral aromas, and together they form a creamy, elegant and unforgettable scent.

Black and gold have always been Nancy's, from Nancy's Fashion Style, favourite color combination. She combined them with a vegan leather black skirt and golden accessories. A cool, modern, stylish and elegant outfit for day, and in the evening you can change the boots for heels and a jacket, and you are ready to go out!

Ready to give your nails a little hocus-pocus? Barbie from Barbie’s Beauty Bits shares DIY Halloween nails you can do at home. Whether your vibe is creepy, cute, or downright spooky, these nail ideas will have you trading salon appointments for a little “ghoul time” at home!

Discover why linen dresses are a wardrobe favorite for women over 40, offering breathable comfort, effortless elegance and flattering styles for every occasion. Terri from Our Good Life says that this guide will answer your most common questions about this timeless fabric.

Happy Halloween!

Wishing you a safe, fun and happy Halloween!

October 2026 Empties for The Face, Body & Hair

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

During the month of October, I managed to finish 8 full-size products and 1 deluxe travel size, and I would most happily use all of these products again. I realize that this is a theme in my empties, but there its a logical reason for that: I simply do not finish using products that are a bad for my face, body and hair. Instead, I either repurpose them, or give them to someone who can use them. Here is what I used in October:

ANUA Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam ($13.00 for 5.07 oz. from Amazon): This cleanser contains salicylic acids and heartleaf powder which together effectively remove impurities and sebum from the skin and simultaneously exfoliating dead skin cells. The formula is non-stripping and gentle for sensitive and acne-prone skin since, and it leaves the skin soft, soothed and comfortable. Purchase Again? I am swimming in cleansers right now, and it will be quite a while before I need to purchase another one, but I would happily use this cleanser again!

Cure Natural Aqua Gel ($34.50 for 8.5 oz. from the Cure Amazon Store): This is a very fun exfoliant to use because after you massage it into your skin for a short amount of time it transforms into a rather milky gel that causes dead skin cells to pill on the skin. The next step is to simply rinse the gel and dead skin cells off of your face or body, and you will be delighted by the extent to which your skin is left soft, smooth, supple and luminous. I routinely use it on my hands and feet, and am thrilled by the results. Furthermore, it is fragrance-free, free of harmful chemicals and so satisfying to use! Purchase Again? I finished this up early in the month of October and already made a dent in a new bottle!

Lovinah Ocean Rituals AHA+BHA Cleansing Balm ($45.00 for 1.7 oz. from Macy's): This gorgeous vibrant blue gem, which evokes the sea, is the most luscious and ultra-luxe cleansing balm imaginable. This is such a thing of beauty from its velvety smooth texture– which is a tactile experience that creates profound joy (pun intended)– that I am nearly at a loss for words. It has a light and natural aroma that is calming, uplifting and it beautifully engages the senses. This antioxidant-rich balm, which is composed of oils such as Milk Thistle, Blueberry & Kakadu Plum, also includes effective ingredients such as  Sea Lettuce & Blue Spirulina. In addition to effortlessly and effectively cleaning the skin, the encapsulated Lactic and Salicylic Acids gently exfoliate dead skin cells, and reveal glowing, healthy skin. Unlike many oil-based cleansing balms, this balm undergoes a metamorphosis from balm-to oil-to milk that can easily be rinsed off with warm water. Skin is left soft, smooth, supple and unmistakably luminous. This is a truly extraordinary cleansing balm. Purchase Again? In a heartbeat! 

Lovinah Skincare Power Vitamin C Cleansing Balm ($45.00 for 1.7 oz. from Macy's): This delectable cleansing balm is truly sublime. It melts into the skin and deeply cleans, moisturizes and exfoliates.This antioxidant-rich balm helps to protect the skin by scavenging free-radicals while it unclogs congested pores, removes makeup and pampers the skin. The gorgeous deep maroon hue coupled with the beautiful aroma makes this a treat to the senses and skin. Purchase Again? Without question! This is an exceptional cleansing balm!

Dr. BRID C Basic Hydro Relief Cream ($21.99 for 0.67 oz. from Dr. BRID C and their Amazon Store): This is a lightweight and very fast absorbing cream that feels like a gel cream, and that melts into the skin and neither leaves behind a greasy, nor a sticky residue. It is refreshing and feels immediately hydrating and nourishing, and it leaves my skin soft, smooth and supple. It has no detectable aroma, and it offers sustained hydration throughout the entire day. It feels wonderful during the warm weather, and I have reached for this wonderful cream every day since opening this tube. During the warmer months my normal/combination skin requires a lighter face cream, and this is just perfect. Purchase Again? I would definitely use this again, and happily, but I have far too many open creams to use first.

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Shampoo ($15.99 for 20 oz. and $9.99 for 12 oz. from Mielle Organics and their Amazon Store): This gentle shampoo, which has a lovely Rosemary and Mint aroma, thoroughly cleans the hair without ever stripping it. It moisturizes, but rinses clean and never weighs down the hair. Purchase Again? Definitely, but I need to use up a few shampoos before buying more!

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Conditioner ($15.99 for 20 oz. and 9.99 for 12 oz. from Mielle Organics and their Amazon Store): This uplifting conditioner, which smells so refreshing, moisturizes and pampers the hair and scalp without feeling heavy. It detangles, fights frizz and leaves hair very manageable without weighing it down. Purchase Again? Without question, but not until I use up quite a few of my open conditioners!

Lavanila The Healthy Deodorant in Fresh Vanilla Lemon ($15.00 for 2 oz. from

LAVANILA, Amazon and Target): This is a wonderful healthy deodorant formula that is effective, smells delicious and offers long-lasting protection. Made from Pure Madagascar vanilla and Lemon Peel Oil, this delicious fragrance is a treat to the senses. It is a refreshing blend of zesty lemon and Madagascar vanilla delivers a crisp and clean experience.perfection, and wearing it is a real pleasure. This is the mini size for travel, but I actually prefer to buy the full size for home and travel use.

If you are seeking an antiperspirant, then be advised that this does not prevent sweating. This has been my favorite healthy deodorant for many years now, and I will use it as long as LAVANILA makes it. It applies to the skin effortlessly, without tugging, and it never leaves a residue or stain on the clothes. This is a cruelty-free brand and their deodorants are free of aluminum and parabens. Purchase Again? I already have another scent open!

Trader Joe's Neroli Blossom Scented Hand Soap ($3.99 for 12 oz. from Trader Joe's): This hand soap is a beautiful citrus with an earthy and slightly musky aroma that is utterly sublime. The soap has a wonderful and satisfying lather, and it never strips or dries out the skin. Purchase Again? I bought 12 of them since this was a seasonal scent during the summer! I hope that they bring this scent back, because it is simply amazing!

 

Overall Assessment: I definitely will miss using these products, for which I do not have backups, but I would happily use all of them again in the future. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in October? Did you make any amazing discoveries, or did you have any particularly disappointing products? Do Tell!

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Beautiful Cork & Mill White Marble Tissue Box Cover Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I have been searching for an attractive, and very heavy, tissue box cover for a while, and less as a design element, and more as a practical weight that prevents my tissue box from moving around every time that I reach for a tissue. If I didn't have allergies that caused me to continually reach for tissue– including in the middle of the night– then I wouldn't even have a box of tissue on my nightstand. I have seen plenty that are made from lightweight materials, but I wanted something heavy that wouldn't budge. 

I found the Cork & Mill Marble Tissue Box Cover on Amazon, and was delighted to learn that this company was founded by a couple who sought, "to transform everyday items into objects of beauty." Mission accomplished! This heavy, solid marble, tissue box, looks beautiful on my nightstand, and the heavy natural marble makes single-hand dispensing a breeze. It works with tissue boxes from big brands such as Kleenex, as well as Trader Joe's, and the open bottom makes it very easy to refill when the box is empty. It also has little rubber pads on the bottom to protect any surfaces from getting scratched, but the bottom is quite smooth and wouldn't likely damage any surfaces.

According to Cork & Mill,

Instantly transform any room with the timeless elegance of this genuine solid white marble tissue box cover, replacing unattractive designs with sophisticated luxury.

Weighs ~6 pounds- heavier than ceramic or resin alternatives by design. The weight is what keeps it planted while you pull tissues, but plan to place it on a sturdy surface.

The heavyweight solid marble construction ensures your kleenex box cover stays securely in place for smooth tissue retrieval, preventing slips and slides.

Embrace the natural beauty of real marble; each white tissue box cover features distinct veining and color variations, ensuring your piece is truly one-of-a-kind.

Perfectly sized (5.5" W x 5.25" D x 5.5" H) to accommodate standard cube tissue boxes up to 4.75" W x 4.5" D x 5.25" H, including most major brands.

Overall Assessment: I am very happy with my purchase! This tissue box cover is high quality, beautiful and built to last. 

$39.99 from Amazon (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

The IKEA JÄRNVÄG Rug Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I have to confess that it has been quite a few years since I have had any area rugs in my house. It isn't that I didn't like the idea of an area rug, or desire something other than wood or tile floors underfoot. It was a pragmatic choice because we had cats and dogs that made it a messier idea in practice. We went from several cats and two dogs, who were all advanced in years, and who sadly passed away, down to a single cat. This meant that we could replace couches that had become scratching posts with couches that we actually enjoyed using. When that day came, my sister said, "it's time to get a rug for your living room." I said that I didn't want to spend a fortune on a rug that could be subjected to Oliver's hairball gifts, and my sister– who has cats and dogs– said, "buy an inexpensive rug that looks good." She then texted me a picture of a super cute rug that she had just purchased, and used to great effect in her mid-century modern house with period appropriate furniture. She said that she found it at IKEA and that it actually goes nicely with her modern aesthetic, and makes her house feel just a touch more eclectic. 

I have not shopped at IKEA in many years, but I loved the way that the rug looked at my sister's house, and since we have the same modern taste in furniture, I knew that it would work at my house.

The JÄRNVÄG Rug, from IKEA, has a low pile, with an ornamented pattern in pink/beige. Available in two sizes, and two colors, I selected the large one– which measures 7 ' 10 "x10 '– in pink/beige. I needed something that was big enough to place in the center of two large couches, a large chair with a pouf, a large coffee table, and in front of a big low slung modern wooden media console. This rug amply fills the space in my large living room, and as my sister said, it works perfectly with our modern aesthetic. While it works beautifully with more traditional furnishings, it really is quite lovely for people with a more modern design sensibility. Additionally, this rug is so soft and cozy underfoot, and Oliver delights in napping on it when he isn't stealing my UGG Throw (Reviewed HERE) from me! The rug does off-gas at first, but if you let it air out outside, it loses the new rug smell pretty quickly.

While IKEA describes this rug as a one that is patterned in pink and beige, I find that the pinks are a bit more rosy to plum, and they are offset by grayish blues, and most importantly they don't fight with any of the other colors in my living room.

According to IKEA,

This rug with soft pastel tones feels modern, but with clear inspiration from classic oriental rugs. Its durability makes it stand the test of time even in the busiest of spaces.

Materials:

• Surface: 100 % polypropylene
• Backing: 100 % Synthetic rubber

Care: Airing and vacuuming will help to eliminate the smell that the rug can have when it is new. Do not wash. Do not bleach. Do not tumble dry. Do not iron. Do not dry clean. Vacuum, shake and rotate the rug regularly. Remove dried spots immediately by scraping carefully towards the middle of the spot. Do not rub wet spots. Absorb moisture with paper towels, and clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Professional carpet cleaning when needed. Always use the standard floorhead, never the rotating brush, when vacuuming the rug.

Overall Assessment: This was an outstanding purchase, and I am happy that I didn't spend thousands of dollars on a rug in a high traffic area– particularly when I have a kitty.

$229.99 for 7 ' 10 "x10 ' and $129.99 for 5 ' 3 "x7 ' 7 " from IKEA (Affiliate Links). Also available in beige/dark beige. Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Philip B Velvet Oud Leave-In Conditioning Water Review

Gift from my sister (Affiliate Links)

Philip B Velvet Oud Leave-In Conditioning Water is a leave-in conditioning spray that has the divine scent of Philip B's luxurious Oud. Like the Philip B Forever Shine Body Wash and Philip B Forever Shine Body Crème, the Philip B Velvet Oud Leave-In Conditioning Water is a truly decadent treat for the senses. The richness of the base notes (Oud, Sandalwood and Patchouli) are mellowed by the fruity top notes (Mandarine, Peach, Apple and Lemon) and the floral middle notes (Jasmine, Rose and Lily of the Valley). The end result is something infinitely wearable and beautifully refined in its fragrant sensibilities. 

Not only does this conditioning water offer the hair light moisture, but it also makes hair more manageable. It fights frizz and flyaways and leaves hair smooth and silky. The aroma is pure magic, but if you can't tolerate scented hair products, then this may prove to be too much for you. I do not find it in the least bit overpowering, but instead the scent gives me a feeling of wellbeing. I also like to use this on the days that I do not shampoo and condition my hair because it really refreshes my hair and makes it look and feel amazing.

According to Philip B,

Get the sumptuous results of a rinse-out conditioner and shine spray without the weight or the wait time. Our light revitalizing spray leaves hair looking glossy with a supremely smooth, silky feel. The result: Your sexiest hair ever. 

My original Weightless Conditioning Water was an overnight hit and offered something new and much-needed in the industry. Its success inspired me to create Velvet Oud Leave-In Conditioning Water, an elevated formula with an opulent, woody-floral scent. My original Weightless Conditioning Water has a floral magnolia fragrance profile, so I wanted to give people more options, and the velvet oud scent is perfect for sultry nights. I’m also happily satisfying the many people who love my Detangling Toning Mist with Velvet Oud and have been begging me to make a conditioning water with the same scent! 

Overall Assessment: This is, without question, my very favorite leave-in conditioning spray, and it is such a pleasure to use.

$56.00 for 5.07 oz. from Philip B, the Philip B Amazon Store, Macy's, Dermstore and Revolve (Affiliate Links). Gift from my sister. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Philip B Forever Shine Body Crème Review

Gift from my sister (Affiliate Links)

Philip B Forever Shine Body Crème is a gorgeous Oud body cream that was inspired by their extraordinary Forever Shine Shampoo and Conditioner, and like their decadent Philip B Forever Shine Body Wash, this stunning cream is a delight to the senses. The base notes of Oud, Sandalwood and Patchouli have softened edges because they are tempered by the fruity top notes (Mandarin, Peach, Apple and Lemon) and the floral middle notes (Jasmine, Rose and Lily of the Valley). Once the aroma warms up against the skin it settles into a rich, warm and creamy oud with the lightness of the fruit and floral sensibilities. The body cream is mid-weight, but ultra emollient and deeply moisturizing, and it melts into warm and freshly cleansed skin quickly while maintaining the beautifully veil of fragrance. It leaves skin soft, smooth, sumptuously supple and with a slight glow.

According to Philip B,

Our kind of overachiever, this luxurious supercream absorbs quickly to help you appear velvety and glowing. A rich cocktail of Amino Acids and Peptides tightens and conditions skin; Shea Butter and Vitamin E offer a concentrated dose of moisture; and time-released Safflower Oleosomes help you feel hydrated longer. Even better, the formula pampers you with the fresh, sophisticated scent of Velvet Oud. Crafted from plant-based citrus, floral and woody notes, it's one of the most exquisite fragrances we've ever composed.

For years, fans of our bestselling Forever Shine Shampoo and Conditioner had been asking me to create body products to go with them, in hopes of extending the luxurious Forever Shine experience from head to toe. Forever Shine Body Wash and Body Crème both feature top-tier skin-care ingredients to leave you feeling cleansed and refreshed. And while the shampoo and conditioner are scented with Royal Oud, I developed a new, complementary fragrance that's fresh and sophisticated.

Directions: Massage into body skin after bath or shower, or whenever you desire a hydration boost. 

Overall Assessment: What a gorgeous moisturizer and the fragrance is just heavenly. A+

$85.00 for 6 oz. from Philip B, the Philip B Amazon Store, Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Dermstore and Harrods (Affiliate Links). Gift from my sister. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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