lola's secret beauty blog

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

HANDLANDY Rose Pruning Gloves in Rosy Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I was in desperate need of new gardening gloves that would protect me from Rose and Bougainvillea thorns, and that could handle heavy-duty gardening, when needed. Therefore, I opted for heavy duty long leather gloves that would protect my hands and arms. I selected the HANDYLANDY Rose Pruning Gloves in Rosy largely because they were very affordable, and the materials were just what I was looking for. They are available in a wide range of colors, but I selected Rosy because I liked the color.

These gloves are quite impressive– especially for the affordable price point– as they are thick and heavy duty solid leather gloves that are lined in fabric. I ordered a medium– just to give myself a little extra room– though I have small hands. They cover my arms all of the way up to my elbows– which is very helpful when I am weeding near or under my Rose bushes and Bougainvillea. I have nothing but the highest praise for these gloves, and they have proven that they really are thorn-proof!

According to HANDLANDY,

Heavy duty cowhide leather gauntlet for excellent protection while cutting, pruning and garden clearing. Please note: these long leather gardening gloves run large.

Tips:

Size Chart:

Features:

Comfortable & Thorn Proof Garden Gloves: Protect your hands & forearms from cuts and scratches so you can work your roses free of thorns. Inner cotton lining provides all-day comfort, breathable feel and moisture wicking.

Split Cowhide Leather Palm & Back: Durable long leather gardening gloves provide good grip to handle all gardening tools, and resist punctures and abrasion.

Extended Gauntlet Cuff: Thick elbow-length gardening gloves protect your hands and forearms against scratches & thorns.

Rose gardening gloves are ideal for: trimming roses, pruning holly bushes, berry bushes and removing thorny weeds, caring for cactus plants.

Overall Assessment: This is one of the best garden purchases that I have made in years! If you garden, and need thick protective gloves, these are very worthy of your consideration!

$18.80 from Amazon and Walmart (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

T is for Tame Taming Cream Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

T is for Tame was created to keep the unruly hair of babies and toddlers manageable by their parents. Becky, who founded T is for Tame, struggled to find a natural solution for her children's unruly hair, and decided to create those products. Her whole range of products makes hair manageable during humidity, days spent at the pool, and while traveling. Her products offer a practical solution for dealing with tangles, frizz, fly-aways and sensitive scalps during the summer months.

While this range of products was created for babies and toddlers, I must emphatically state, as a person with naturally curly hair, that T is for Tame products are miraculous on my hair. Therefore, I think that these products are perfect for anyone who has hair that is prone to frizz, fly-aways, tangling and that is clearly impacted by humid weather.

T is for Tame Taming Cream is formulated to fight frizz, bedhead and static. While it does these things beautifully, it is also a wonderful styling cream for my naturally curly hair. This cruelty-free taming cream has the same wonderful vanilla aroma as their other haircare products, and it is hydrating and emollient. It smooths and pampers hair, leaving hair shiny and manageable– while fighting frizz. It is not in the least bit greasy or sticky, and it doesn't dry and flake. I have been reaching for this more than my other styling products, and that is saying something.

According to T is for Tame,

No More Baby Bed Head: Keep hair looking selfie-ready every day with our Taming Cream — a gentle, natural, vegan formula made to calm unruly hair and make brushing easier. Perfect for daily use as part of your child’s morning routine. Smooth, style, and go—without the sticky residue of gels or mousses. Tame it naturally, every day!

All Hair Types: Suitable for curly, straight, or wavy hair, our anti-frizz hair cream tames flyaways and adds smoothness with coconut and jojoba oils and a light vanilla scent for a refreshing finish.

Safety is our Priority: T is for Tame Hair Taming Cream for Kids is made by a mom of twins and manufactured in the United States, sampled by other moms, and tested by a physician, so you can trust that it has been carefully formulated with children in mind.

Safe for All Ages: Clinically and dermatologically tested, our natural hair styling cream is safe for babies and loved by the whole family. Made without chemicals, dyes, parabens, phthalates, or sulfates, it’s gentle enough for everyday use.

Directions: Simply apply a dime-sized dollop onto palms and scrunch into curly or wavy hair or smooth into straight hair. Reapply as needed for soft, manageable hair.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Jojoba Oil, Stearic Acid, Coconut Oil, 1,3-Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Tapioca Starch, Panthenol, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Gluconolactone (and) Sodium Benzoate, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Vanilla Fragrance Oil, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide.

Overall Assessment: I love T is for Tame products for my naturally curly hair, and while their products are formulated for babies and toddlers, it is perfect for my hard-to-tame hair. A+

$14.99 for 3.38 oz. from T is for Tame and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Monday, August 10, 2026

Top Skincare Pick in August: Dr. BRID C Intensive Moisture Basic Cream

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Dr. BRID C Intensive Moisture Basic Cream is an unbelievably effective face cream that I have been using for many months, but what I discovered is that it is exquisite in its ability to pamper my skin this summer. It has a superb velvety texture, and it feels like an ultra-luxe facial cream– at an affordable price– that provides serious moisture. It is mid-weight and yet it melts into the skin immediately leaving it soft, smooth, supple and luminous. It leaves behind no greasy residue, and while it is formulated for dry and/or dehydrated skin, I find it particularly effective for my normal skin with some t-zone activity. It offers my skin ample moisture that lasts all day, and prevents my skin from becoming dehydrated during the hot months of summer. There is no detectable aroma and there are no parabens or silicones in this lovely cream.

According to Dr. BRID C,

Deep moisture care for dry or dehydrated skin. A deeply hydrating cream formulated to help relieve dryness and support long-lasting skin moisture.

Features & Claims:

Powered by our patented peptide that helps deliver peptides into the skin to support the skin's natural barrier — shown to increase C-Peptide (a key indicator of collagen synthesis) levels by 175.3%
Formulated with a premium 90,000ppm Shea Butter blend and Saccharide Isomerate. This rich combination helps improve skin hydration and assists in creating a long-lasting moisture seal for dry to extremely dry skin.
Developed to help reduce the appearance of skin roughness. Our unique silky-smooth texture absorbs gently without greasiness, delivering nutrients to support a visibly more refined surface texture.
Infused with Biosaccharide Gum-1 and Saccharide Isomerate to help lock in moisture and promote the skin's natural renewal process. These functional ingredients work together to assist in maintaining a plump, youthful-looking complexion.
Free from fragrances, parabens, and silicones. Dermatologically tested for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Directions: Apply to face and neck as the last step of skincare. Massage gently until absorbed.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Pentylene Glycol, Cetearyl Olivate, Niacinamide, Saccharide Isomerate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetyl Palmitate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sorbitan Palmitate, Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Sorbitan Oleate, Sodium Gluconate, Panthenol, Ascorbic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Copper Tripeptide-1, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Citric Acid, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Citrate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Sodium Anisate, Zinc Oxide, Glyceryl Stearate, Bisabolol, Glutathione.

Overall Assessment: I absolutely love his cream, and it is really pampering my skin in the summer heat!

$21.99 for 0.68 oz. from Dr. BRID C and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Sunday, August 9, 2026

Things to do in LA: The Original Farmers Market LA This Summer

(Unaffiliated Links)

If you plan to spend any time in Los Angeles this summer, might I suggest a trip to The Original Farmer's Market on 3rd & Fairfax?! Learn more about its long history, and its place in Hollywood history, HERE. Long history aside, there is a wide array of amazing international foods and restaurants in The Original Farmer's Market, and lots of wonderful stores to wander through. Additionally, it is directly next to The Grove– where you will find more restaurants, an abundance of luxury shops (stores listed HERE), and they even have an AMC Movie Theater. There is so much to do here, and so many delicious foods to try!

The Original Farmers Market:

6333 W. 3rd St.

Los Angeles, CA 90036

Plan your trip: Information HERE

Phone: 323-933-9211

Toll Free: 866-933-9211

Current Hours:

Monday-Friday: 9AM-9PM

Saturday: 10AM-9PM

Sunday: 10AM-7PM

Saturday, August 8, 2026

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Summer Week in Review

Tired of shaving, waxing, and dealing with constant irritation? Barbie from Barbie's Beauty Bits discusses how laser hair removal uses targeted light energy to slow regrowth so hair can come back finer, lighter, and less often over time.

The Art of the Glow, which features Votary London, is Boxwalla's July Beauty Box that you don't want to miss! Lola's Secret Beauty Blog loves the extraordinary serum and cream, and knows that you will too.

Discover why true beauty isn't about chasing youth but embracing the woman you're becoming. Teri from Our Good Life explores how kindness, curiosity, grace, and confidence create a beauty that grows richer with every season of life.

Summer is in full swing but the autumn collections are already everywhere. Brown, burgundy, green, it's all there. Nancy from Nancy's Fashion Style loves these colours and doesn't mind wearing them these hot days at all.

If you'd like to get more looks from one dress, Angie from Your True Self Blog has 11 ideas for how you can wear a t-shirt dress with comfort and style. Age doesn't matter!

Friday, August 7, 2026

haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

haruharu wonder is a K-Beauty brand making quite a splash in the US this summer, and the haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ is the perfect product with which to familiarize yourself with this brand this season.

About haruharu wonder,

Since entering the U.S. market, haruharu wonder has rapidly built a loyal following through its barrier-first skincare philosophy and thoughtfully formulated products, recently expanding nationwide at Target while continuing to grow as one of Amazon's fastest-rising Korean skincare brands.

Inspired by the Korean phrase haruharu, meaning 'day by day,' the brand transforms skincare into intentional rituals that nurture both skin and spirit. With Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+, haruharu wonder extends that philosophy to daily sun protection, making SPF an effortless step that supports long-term skin health while fitting seamlessly into everyday routines.

haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ is a lightweight and fragrance-free chemical sunscreen that is cruelty-free, PETA Approved, vegan, breathable and it leaves behind no white residue. Unlike many sunscreens, it includes Hyaluronic Acid– which retains hydration while the sunscreen protects the skin from the sun. This sunscreen layers nicely with makeup and it neither pills, nor does it cake up. It is formulated for all types of skin, and it is made without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, drying alcohols, oxybenzone, octinoxate or synthetic dyes. Not only is it an effective sunscreen, but it is also affordable!

Furthermore, this sunscreen is, "powered by haruharu wonder's barrier-first philosophy, the formula features soothing Centella Asiatica Extract, hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, and skin-strengthening Ceramides to help calm the look of redness and support a healthy skin barrier while maintaining lasting comfort throughout the day."

According to haruharu wonder,

Broad Spectrum SPF 60+ with UV filters that delivers trusted daily UVA/UVB protection with a breathable feel made for everyday wear, not just beach days.

Breathable, cloud-light texture with a lotion-like feel that wears comfortably all day with no greasy residue or white cast, blending seamlessly into every skin tone and layering easily under makeup.

Powered by Centella Asiatica, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), and Ceramide NP to help keep skin calm, hydrated, and comfortably balanced while wearing SPF daily.

haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ is a Oxybenzone-free, Octinoxate-free, fragrance-free formula made for sensitive, dry, and combination skin, with a lightweight feel that stays comfortable throughout daily wear. Formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, drying alcohols, or synthetic dyes. Vegan certified by V-Label and cruelty-free certified by PETA.

Broad Spectrum SPF 60+ combines effective UV protection with a weightless, breathable feel for effortless daily wear.

Overall Assessment: This is such a nice sunscreen! It feels comfortable on the skin, offers an SPF 60+ and it calms redness, hydrates the skin and offers skin barrier protection.

$15.30 for 1.69 oz (Regularly $18.00) from haruharu's Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Thursday, August 6, 2026

WYLYS Phyto Green Cleansing Balm Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

As previously noted, I fell head-over-heels in love with WYLYS skincare when I first tried it in one of my favorite Boxwalla Beauty Boxes, and since that time my love has only grown. WYLYS is a luxury K-Beauty brand, but they marry the best of K-Beauty with extraordinary French manufacturing. WYLYS (When You Love Your Skin) produces highly effective products that boast stunning textures, real results and a skincare experience to be savored.

About WYLYS,

A great skincare routine should tend to the soul as much as the skin. It’s a moment to look forward to—however quick of a moment it is—with products that do what they say will. At the same time, skincare is about so much more than products. It’s about the joy of self caring, of letting your inner beauty reveal itself. This is why we created WYLYS [pronounced will-ess], which stands for When You Love Your Skin.

We’ve been obsessed with skincare for decades. As K-beauty enthusiasts, who had so adored researching and introducing friends to the best products for their skin, we first launched OHLOLLY seven years ago—though we couldn’t just stop there. It was only a matter of time before everything we had tried, loved, and raved about funneled into creating a skincare line of our very own.

Korean spirit, French wisdom. WYLYS is the modern take on the skincare industry's premium standards that have been prized for generations. We’ve sought the right ingredients for real-time results, and have ruthlessly pursued iteration after iteration to ensure these textures and scents are exactly what we’ve been looking for. We knew we couldn’t release a single product until each one was just right, and that digging for gold has finally paid off. The time is right to meet WYLYS.

When you love your skin, you know that its routine is something to treasure. We hold sacred and have kept in mind that entire experience, from sourcing and production, to the time the sink fills and a washcloth warms your face. These are the products for those moments that exist just for you—welcome to the best part of your day.

WYLYS Phyto Green Cleansing Balm is an utterly gorgeous cleansing balm that melts into the skin and it does an exquisite job cleaning dirt and makeup. It transforms from a lightweight balm to a creamy and milky emulsion, and it rinses completely clean and leaves behind no oily residue, whatsoever. It leaves skin soft, smooth, supple and hydrated. It is very concentrated, and therefore you only need to massage a tiny amount into your skin. It has a wonderful herbaceous aroma, but it isn't in the least bit imposing, instead it is very pleasant and calming.

According to WYLYS,

A dose of all-natural plant-powered aromatherapy to ease into your routine. The Wylys Phyto Green Cleansing Balm is a luxurious daily cleanser that transforms from balm-to-oil-to-creamy milk to remove dirt, makeup, and sunscreen while nourishing the skin without any residue.

The Wylys Phyto Green Cleansing Balm is a self-care experience from the moment you feel it. Made with plant-based oils, essential oils, and botanical extracts, its silky consistency melts into the skin to easily remove makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and debris without stripping the skin or disturbing its delicate acid mantle. The signature, naturally herbaceous, grounding scent is light enough to refresh without being overpowering. It is truly a luxurious start to any skincare routine. Making natural products without synthetic fragrances, artificial colorants or other additives means that there will be varying colors and/or scents from batch to batch. Rest assured, every Wylys product is made with utmost care, expertise, and highest quality to ensure maximum performance. Mindfully packaged in a glass jar, UV-coated to protect the all natural scent and color.

Directions: Scoop a small amount and spread balm over dry skin. Massage balm in circular motions to melt, cleanse and remove makeup. Add water to emulsify. Rinse well with lukewarm water and pat dry.

Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:

Babassu Seed Oil for softening skin texture.
Green Tea Seed Oil for hydration.
Apricot Kernel Oil for reducing the look of fine lines.
Jojoba Seed Oil to balance natural oil production.
Grape Seed Oil for brightening.
Vitamin E for lessening signs of UV damage.
Rosemary Seed Oil to fight breakouts and clarify.
Lavender Oil for reducing acne and acne scars.

Ingredients: Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Synthetic Wax, Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cedrus Atlantica Bark Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Cedrus Atlantica Wood Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Amber Powder, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Limonene, Linalool.

Overall Assessment: I have lots and lots of cleansing balms, but none are like this one! This is truly exceptional, and what I have found is that is true of WYLYS skincare products in general. A+

$48.00 for 3.53 oz. from Nordstrom, Ulta, Bloomingdale's and WYLYS (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Wednesday, August 5, 2026

YETI Sidekick 3L Waterproof Gear Case in Pace Purple Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

When I purchased my YETI Camino Zip 18L Carryall Tote Bag in Pace Purple (Reviewed HERE)– for weekends away, and to carry my laptop– I knew that I would probably also purchase the YETI Sidekick 3L Waterproof Gear Case in Pace Purple because it conveniently attaches to to outside of the tote, but can also be used separately. Since it is waterproof, I figured it was a great way to stash my toiletries when traveling, but also the 3 liter container had enough space for my wallet, keys, cell phone, charger and anything that I need to quickly access. Since Pace Purple is a limited Edition color– like my bag– I decided to buy it before it sold out. I purchased mine online at REI, and picked it up in person, and when we had the salesperson open the package to make sure it was the right color and not damaged, she said, "wow, this is such a gorgeous color!" In fact, it is much prettier than the pictures convey. It easily attached to my tote bag, and I also ordered one in Desert Bloom to go with my YETI Camino Tote 35 in Desert Bloom (Reviewed HERE) since I use it all of the time while traveling for more than a couple of nights away. I am still waiting to receive the one in Desert Bloom, and can't wait to attach it to my large YETI Tote.

According to YETI,

Perfect for your phone, keys, wallet and trail map—and more, depending on the size—the YETI Sidekick Dry Gear Case is designed to keep essentials out of your pockets and dry for on-water adventures. Keep everything you need for a day on the water — out of the water.

Features:

DRYHIDE™ shell is constructed from similar materials as high-performance whitewater rafts.
HYDROSHIELD™ magnetic closure uses powerful magnets to create a waterproof shield.
Durable hook-and-loop closure, plus RF-welded seams that repel any rogue wetness.
Interior mesh pockets to help you stay organized.
Can be used on its own or attached to the YETI Sideclick™ strap (not included)
Compatible with all YETI Camino and Hopper products (not included) and the YETI Panga pack (not included).
WARNING: SideKick Dry® Gear Case contains magnets. Placing near a pacemaker may cause interference.

Dimensions, Details & Capacity:

3 L: 3 liters

Gear Capacity (cu. in.): 3 L: 183 cubic inches

Waterproof: Yes

Materials: DRYHIDE

Dimensions: 3 L: 11.4W x 9.75H x 2.8D inches

Weight: 3 L: 13 ounces

Velcro and Magnetic Closure

There is 3 liters of space in this bag

The back has velcro straps that attach to the YETI Tote Bag, and other Yeti products such as their coolers.

This is what it looks like when I attached it to my YETI Camino Zip 18L Carryall Tote Bag in Pace Purple.

Available Colors:

Overall Assessment: YETI makes top quality products, and I am thrilled with my totes, this Sidekick, my water bottles and my coffee mug. This was a very worthwhile purchase, and I am so happy that I bought it! A+

$55.00 for size 3L from YETI, REI, Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, Ace Hardware and Academy (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

WYLYS New Day Glow Brightening Serum Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I fell head-over-heels in love with WYLYS skincare when I first tried it in one of my favorite Boxwalla Beauty Boxes, and since that time my love has only grown. WYLYS is a luxury K-Beauty brand, but they marry the best of K-Beauty with extraordinary French manufacturing. WYLYS (When You Love Your Skin) produces highly effective products that boast stunning textures, real results and a skincare experience to be savored.

About WYLYS,

WYLYS New Day Glow Serum is a creamy-dreamy serum that is the final serum layer if you also use lighter weight serums, and what a delight this is to use. This serum feels a bit more like a lightweight cream with the absorption of a serum. It is filled with skin-loving lipids that moisturize and nourish the skin, and it is likewise filled with actives formulated to brighten the skin. My skin feels thoroughly moisturized, brightened, calm and supple whenever I use this gorgeous serum.

WYLYS employs the use of Niacinamide and Vitamin C to give the skin an ethereal healthy glow, and they use a combination of cholesterol, fatty acids and ceramides to nourish the skin and provide skin barrier protection and repair. The addition of bakuchiol– which was selected for its ability to offer the skin gentle renewal without skin irritation– refreshes the skin gently and beautifully. Skin will greatly benefit from their inclusion of Jojoba, Squalane and Sea Buckthorn since this symphony of ingredients nourishes and softens the skin leaving it smooth and supple. For people with sensitive skin that is prone to irritation, you will be delighted that Panthenol was selected to calm and pamper irritable skin.

According to WYLYS,

A multi-active treatment serum that combines hydration with anti-aging benefits to reduce dullness, revive firmness, and strengthen skin's moisture barrier. It is packed with vitamin C, bakuchiol and niacinamide for firmer, plumper, smoother-looking skin.

Using bakuchiol, a gentle yet potent derivative of the babchi plant, plus stabilized vitamin C, this gel-like, creamy serum helps to catalyze collagen production to lessen the appearance of fine lines, rough spots, and hyperpigmentation. Its pressed serum texture adds extra hydration under a cream, or also works well on its own as a daytime moisturizer.

Directions: After cleansing and toning, warm a small 2-3 pumps between fingers and then apply to face and neck in upward motion. Gently tap and press for full absorption. Follow with cream or moisturizer, as needed.

Active Ingredients & Their Attributes:

Bakuchiol: a gentle retinol alternative that helps to fade fine lines, smooth skin, and stimulate collagen-producing receptors for a firmer, bouncier texture. May also help to improve acne and acne-scarring, especially in sensitive skin.

Niacinamide: a form of vitamin-B3 that helps to fortify the skin barrier, build keratin molecules, regulate oil production, fade hyperpigmentation, and retain moisture so skin appears smoother, firmer, and with less noticeable pores.

Vitamin C: water-soluble yet oil-loving stabilized form of vitamin C. A staple of well-aging routines for its ability to help fade lines and wrinkles, brighten dark spots, balance oil production, improve skin texture and appearance, and help prevent damage from UV rays, especially when used in conjunction with sunscreen.

Squalane: a sustainable plant-based powerhouse ingredient that is effortlessly absorbed into the skin for nourishing, barrier-boosting, redness-reducing benefits.

Ceramide NP: a major component of skin’s outer layers, known to reinforce skin’s barrier strength to better resist external stressors. It also improves hydration, elasticity, and collagen production.

Sea Buckthorn: a vibrant red fruit oil rich in antioxidants, phytosterols, and skin-benefiting fatty acids that moisturizes, reduces redness, and helps with cell regeneration.

Ingredients: Water, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Glycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Panthenol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Squalane, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil, Dimethicone, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Bakuchiol, Arginine, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopherol, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid.

Overall Assessment: This luxurious cream-like serum is very effective, lives up to its claims, and it is a pure joy to use. WYLYS is on the very short list of my all-time favorite skincare brands, and this serum is nothing short of extraordinary! A+

$125.00 for 1.69 oz. from Nordstrom, Ulta, Bloomingdale's and WYLYS (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Monday, August 3, 2026

Boxwalla Features Votary London: The Art of Glow July Beauty Box

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

If you subscribe to Boxwalla, or receive their emails, then you have undoubtedly heard that the warehouse they use is closing, and they have to vacate the premises. As a result, they are having a 40% sitewide warehouse closing sale (Use code thankyou40), but this Votary Box is excluded from it. Subscription boxes will be paused until Boxwalla secures a new warehouse. Therefore, the July box is your last box until they find a new warehouse. Their last order from this warehouse will go out on August 7, so they will accept orders until August 5th or 6th.

The Skincare Box from Boxwalla is the best beauty box subscription curated for the luxury-loving skincare enthusiast. In our beauty boxes, you will discover the most effective & innovative plant-based clean beauty products that redefine luxury skincare. By showcasing not only the benefits of each product we feature but also demonstrating how they can be incorporated into your skincare routine, we help you figure out how to take care of your unique skin needs.

The Votary London: The Art of Glow Limited Edition Box features two lovely products from Votary, just perfect for summer. In June, the Twelve Beauty products will bring back stillness to the skin. In July, the Votary products will make it laugh while amping up the glow!

Boxwalla July Skincare Subscription Box: The July Beauty Box features two gorgeous products from Votary Beauty.

The contents of the July Skincare Box are:

Votary Vitamin C Glow Serum ($95.00)
Votary Ultimate Rich Cream ($123.00)
Price of the box: $59.95

About Votary,

Votary is a high performance plant powered skincare British brand founded by Arabella Preston and Charlotte Semler. Arabella is a former beauty editor and a makeup artist (whose clients include Kate Middleton & Stella McCartney), who used to blend pure plant oils for years for both herself & her clients. On a lunch with friends, when entrepreneur, friend & former boss Charlotte realized that Arabella blended her own oils to cleanse and moisturize her skin as well as her clients’ skin, she decided to team up with her to bring these gorgeous plant oil based formulations to the world. And so Votary was born.

Beautiful skin begins with properly clean skin, which is why the Votary cleansing routine is at the heart of everything we do. Votary cleansing oils and 100% pure cotton face cloths are simply the best way to clean and care for your face. It’s where great skin begins.

The Votary Skincare range now spans cleansing oils, facial oils, deeply nourishing creams, masks and powerful serums to give you healthy, happy, glowing skin.

Votary Vitamin C Glow Serum: This lightweight magical serum features a very stable and effective form of Vitamin C, and this antioxidant-rich serum– which effectively combats free radical damage– is formulated to diminish the appearance of discoloration (age spots, sun damage), and it gives skin a gorgeous ethereal glow. However, unlike some Vitamin C serums– which I have found drying for my skin– this one includes Hyaluronic Acid, and therefore it deeply hydrates the skin while leaving the complexion soft, smooth, supple and more even on tone. It contains no detectable aroma, does not irritate my sometimes finicky skin, and it is as joyful to use as it is effective.

According to Boxwalla,

A great Vitamin C serum is a very useful thing to have in your skincare toolkit, especially in summer when it becomes even more crucial to combat the free radical damage caused by UV rays. I have been loving this new Vitamin C serum from Votary – the dark spots that usually appear on my skin in summer seem to have been kept at bay by this serum (and sunscreen).

It contains 3.5% Vitamin C in the form of the ester Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate that helps stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and brighten the skin. It also has 5% Niacinamide that makes skin more resilient and refines it, and Alpha Arbutin, which further evens out the skin tone by helping to fade spots.

Directions: Use in the morning after cleansing, before applying moisturizer.

Step 1: Apply a few drops to freshly cleansed skin in the morning.

Step 2: Gently massage into your face and neck using upward motions.

Step 3: Follow with your favourite moisturiser or facial oil to lock in hydration.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Alpha-Arbutin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Phytate, CI 15985 (Yellow 6), Tocopherol, CI 16035 (Red 40).

Votary Ultra Rich Cream: What is remarkable is the fact that Votary accidentally sent Boxwalla their Ultra Rich Cream instead of their Ultimate Light Cream, and I am grateful for this mistake! This is my new all-time favorite face cream, and it is utterly magical. The peptides were selected for their ability to smooth and firm the skin while the ceramides support the skin barrier while locking in vital moisture. While this is a rich cream, the texture is light to mid weight, and it melts into the skin immediately without leaving behind a greasy residue. It leaves my skin soft, supple, moisturized and remarkably luminous. It has a very light herbal aroma, informed by the natural ingredients– not added fragrance– and it feels and smells ultra-luxe.

According to Boxwalla,

This beautiful cream is another must-have in my skincare toolkit. Sometimes my skin craves a moisturizer that feels deeply comforting without becoming heavy or greasy—and this one delivers beautifully. It wraps the skin in lasting nourishment while still feeling elegant and absorbing effortlessly. Your skin simply drinks it up, feeling replenished, comforted, and wonderfully radiant.

This cream contains a Biomimetic Peptide Duo that strengthens the skin’s structure while improving firmness and resilience. Ceramides help repair and reinforce the skin barrier, reducing sensitivity and improving moisture retention, while Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) soothes, hydrates, and supports overall skin comfort. The result is skin that feels stronger, smoother, and beautifully nourished with every use.

Directions: Apply after cleansing and any serums, morning and/or night.

Step 1: After cleansing, take a small amount and massage gently into face and neck using your fingertips.

Step 2: Allow the cream to absorb fully for deeply nourished and hydrated skin.

⚠ Contains Vitamin A. Consider your daily intake before use.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Squalane, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Plukenetia Volubilis (Sacha Inchi) Seed Oil, Magnesium Sulfate, Panthenol, Ceramide NP, Zinc PCA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate, Phenoxyethanol, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Chloride, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Citric Acid, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Neroli) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Flower Oil*, Linalool*, Linalyl Acetate*, Limonene*, Pinene*, Terpineol*, Geraniol*, Geranyl Acetate*, Farnesol*. *Naturally occurs in Essential oils

Overall Assessment: I am a devoted fan of both Boxwalla and Votary, and this skillfully curated box is simply exquisite. I highly recommend getting this box– especially since Boxwalla's warehouse search will mean that this could be the last beauty box for a few months. A+

$59.95 from Boxwalla. The Votary box is now also available as a One-Time Purchase. Press Sample (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own.