Friday, October 9, 2026

Saturn 19 Eau de Parfum by Tatum & BuMama Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)
 
I love discovering local LA area brands, and BuMama is among my delightful recent discoveries. For people not from Los Angeles, Malibu is affectionately and locally known as The Bu, and hence the name of BuMama, which is actually made in Malibu.

About BuMama,

Welcome to BuMama, a vibrant lifestyle brand inspired by the bohemian spirit and the iconic SoCal vibe of Malibu. Founded by Brooklyn Kyser, a local mother, entrepreneur, and dog lover, BuMama is more than a brand; it's a movement towards a vibrant, healthful life with a generous heart.

At BuMama, we are committed to fostering a tribe dedicated to living a lifestyle brimming with wellness, sustainability, and joy. With integrity at our core, we embrace the fun and freedom of the bohemian ethos, crafting an authentic brand that resonates with wellness enthusiasts and sustainable lifestyle seekers alike.

BuMama offers a range of products including candles, accessories, perfume, and more, all designed to support your brand's lifestyle. We work with influencers to promote our message of living authentically and joyfully, inviting you to join us in embracing a lifestyle that nourishes your body, mind, and spirit.

Our mission is to inspire and nurture our tribe's body and soul while giving back by supporting mental health wellness. Together, let's create a vibrant, healthful life with a generous heart.”

At BuMama, we believe in giving back to the community and supporting those who need it most. That's why we donate 10% of our annual sales to the Trauma Survivors Foundation. This cause is incredibly close to our hearts—five years ago, my family and I survived the devastating suicide of my husband and my daughters' father. Through this unimaginable ordeal, we discovered the importance of having the right support and resources to rebuild our lives. Now, we want to extend that help to other trauma survivors.

Saturn 19 Eau de Parfum by Tatum & BuMama boasts a warm and creamy aroma with a delectable hypnotic quality. The top note of Sweet Violet is tempered by the creamy Warm Amber heart note and the Vanilla Bean and Earthy Sandalwood base notes add depth and sophistication to this stunning fragrance. When it dries down, it sits close to the skin, rather than announcing your entry into a room, and it is such a gorgeous and captivating fragrance that I find myself continually smelling my wrist. While BuMama asserts that this is a great evening scent, I wear it at all times of the day, and think that it is perfect from dusk until dawn!
According to BuMama,

Born from a fascination with the stars, Saturn 19 Eau de Parfum captures the magnetic pull between celestial wonder and earthly grace — where celestial warmth meets earthly elegance. Created by Tatum Jenkins in collaboration with her mother, BuMama founder Lisa Kyser, this luminous fragrance is an intimate ode to love, legacy, and the infinite universe we call home. Orbit with love.

Top Notes: Sweet Violet
Heart Notes: Warm Amber
Base Notes: Vanilla Bean and Earthy Sandalwood

BuMama The Parfum Edit: Discovery Trio ($19.99 from BuMama): This Discovery Set features 3 x 2ml vials from our Eau de Parfums collection. It is an easy way to try their fragrances before committing to a full size bottle.
According to BuMama,

Great fragrance is rarely love at first spray, it's a discovery. This trio brings together three of our Malibu-crafted Eau de Parfums in travel-friendly 2ml vials, so you can live with each one before committing to a full bottle which begins at $169.

This Discovery Set includes the following lovely Eau de Parfums:

Golden Hour Eau de Parfum (2ml): Your morning scent.
  • Top: California lemon · Neroli
  • Heart: Saffron
  • Base: Teakwood · Amber · Musk · Vanilla
Saturn 19 Eau de Parfum (2ml): Your evening scent
  • Top: Sweet violet
  • Heart: Velvet amber · Sensual santal
  • Base: Vanilla bean
Springsteen Eau de Parfum (2ml): Your everyday scent.
  • Top: Pink grapefruit · Black currant
  • Heart: Amber
  • Base: Cashmere
Product Details:
Full Size: 100ml glass holographic bottle
Concentration: Eau de Parfum with 20% parfum for a lasting scent
Chemical-free, non-toxic, and non-triggering
Certified vegan and cruelty-free
Vegan & Allergy-tested
Handmade with love in Malibu, CA
Overall Assessment: I love supporting local LA brands– especially when they make incredible products. BuMama is definitely worth having on your radar. I love Saturn 19 Eau de Parfum, and find the fragrance utterly delectable and delightful. A+

$239.00 for 3.4 oz. from BuMama (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views are categorical my own.

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

Thursday, October 8, 2026

Topanga Scents Goats Milk Lotion in Santa Monica and The Grove Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

I recently discovered lovely goat's milk body lotions made by Topanga Scents, and each of their fragrances are inspired and named after regions and specific locations in the Los Angeles area. 

About Topanga Scents,

Topanga Scents was created by Seth Williams in 2017 with the vision of creating an affordable luxury laundry line with lasting effects. His love for Southern California—especially the Topanga Mountains, a peaceful escape between the Malibu beaches and Santa Monica Mountains—inspired the brand’s name.

What started in his kitchen, selling to family and close friends, quickly became an online business opportunity. Seth was a high school principal at the time, mixing, labeling, boxing, and shipping every order from his home. As love and demand for the products grew, he realized the need for a business partner.

Seth turned to someone he trusted to support his growing vision—his sister-in-law, Erin Williams. Already a devoted fan of the products, Erin had been sharing them with her co-workers, family, and friends. In 2019, Erin joined Seth as a co-owner, making products in her home while overseeing the construction of a warehouse on family land.

Recognizing the company’s potential, Seth and Erin transformed Topanga Scents into a Network Marketing Company, officially launching it in November 2020. Since then, it has continued to thrive, helping countless families find success through its business model.

Today, Topanga Scents is more than just a luxury fragrance brand—it’s a movement built on passion, quality, and a commitment to helping others. Seth and Erin remain dedicated to their mission and excited for future opportunities. With a heart for service and a belief in the power of community, they continue to expand the brand, bringing the essence of Topanga Scents to homes across the US.

Topanga Scents Santa Monica Goat's Milk Lotion is a very moisturizing Goat's Milk body lotion that is veiled with a beautiful fragrance. Described as, "a cheerful blend of freesia, seasoned alpine, and smooth vanilla," this beautiful floral sits close to the skin and delights the senses. As Topanga Scents asserts, "goat’s milk products provide immense benefits to your skin’s health and its ability to absorb moisture" and I definitely note that this formula offers my skin sustained moisture all day long. The lotion is lightweight, fast-absorbing and ultra-emollient. It leaves skin deeply moisturized, and it contains vitamins A, B, C, D & E to heal rough and dry skin. Additionally, their lotions are Phthalate-free.

Topanga Scents The Grove Goat's Milk Lotion, which is named after an LA destination outdoor mall, is likewise immensely moisturizing. The fragrance, which is aptly described as, "the clean fragrances of citrus, sweet florals, and sandalwood" is a delectable citrusy floral that is tempered by the warmth of the sandalwood. Like their Santa Monica scent, The Grove's aroma sits close to the skin and delights the senses without overwhelming them.

Directions: Apply a small amount of our goat’s milk lotion to your skin and massage gently until fully absorbed.

Overall Assessment: These are both such lovely body lotions. The scents are subtle and pleasant and the lotion itself is very moisturizing, and such a pleasure to use.

$15.00 for 8 oz. from Topanga Scents (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Epicutis Luxury Skincare Set Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

As previously noted, I was recently introduced to several products from EPICUTIS, and I am quite impressed by their ultra-luxe textures and product efficacy.

About EPICUTIS,

Epicutis® represents the forefront of skincare innovation, bringing together a team of respected scientists and health advocates united by a common goal: to bring real, measurable value to skincare.

In a field frequently dominated by empty promises and passing fads, we've dedicated ourselves to creating a new benchmark—one based on thorough research, observable results, and steadfast integrity.

The entirety of our library of ingredients are 100% non-toxic and non-disruptive. Every ingredient in our formulations are safe for all skin types. Our products are designed to strengthen and protect your barrier.

EWG Verified™ / Vegan / Non-GMO / Gluten-Free / 100% Non-Toxic / Sulfate Free Paraben Free / Cruelty Free / Synthetic Fragrance + Dye Free / Dermatologist Recommended / Responsibly Sourced + Produced / Not Tested On Animals / Meets California Recycling Standards / Prop 65 Compliant / Approved For Use In The EU/ Made in the USA.

The Epicutis Luxury Skincare Set is comprised of a full-size Lipid Serum (1 oz) and a full-size Hyvia Crème (1.7 oz). The two products together deeply nourish and hydrate, and they also calm irritated and stressed skin.

According to Epicutis,

The Luxury Skincare Set combines two powerful steps: Treat and Hydrate. It includes the Lipid Serum and Hyvia® Crème, both formulated with exclusive patented active ingredients unique to EPICUTIS®.


With therapeutic concentrations of TSC, our patented anti-inflammatory ingredient, this silky serum delivers an instant dose of relief for inflamed, stressed, sensitive or post-procedure skin - PLUS proven skin-health benefits that build over time.


The Hyvia® Crème combines the best of nature and science. It includes proprietary ingredients, complemented by a selection of pure, responsibly sourced botanicals that offer proven benefits for the skin.

Epicutis Lipid Serum ($250.00 when sold alone) is a thick and emollient serum that melts into the skin, and leaves it deeply hydrated and it calms inflammation, redness and irritation. This serum is very concentrated, and therefore a tiny amount is enough for the face, neck and décolleté. This can be used day and night, and after about a week I noticed that my skin was not only soft, hydrated, smooth and supple, but also that my fine lines were plumped and barely detectable. I used this serum after an exfoliation that left my skin a little irritated and red, and it calmed and left it comfortable very quickly. It has no detectable scent, and it is neither oily, nor sticky. It is a very solid performing serum.

According to Epicutis,

PURE MINIMALIST MAGIC: With only eight ingredients, this gentle formula is an essential member of your healing arsenal.

With therapeutic concentrations of TSC, our patented anti-inflammatory ingredient, this silky serum delivers an instant dose of relief for inflamed, stressed, sensitive or post-procedure skin—PLUS proven skin-health benefits that build over time.

Thanks to the lipid-like properties of TSC, EPICUTIS® Lipid Serum absorbs quickly—carrying a network of calming nutrients beneath the skin’s surface to soothe redness and fight collagen break down at the cellular level.

Features:

  • TSC to instantly lock in hydration + calm inflammation
  • Hyaluronic acid to instantly boost skin’s moisture level
  • Propanediol for skin plumping + anti-microbial benefits
  • Glycerin to help serum glide gently across skin’s surface
Directions: Apply a pea-sized amount of serum to clean fingertips. Gently spread it evenly over your face until it is fully absorbed. For your neck and décolleté, use an additional drop. For optimal results, use morning and night.

Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium Tetramethylhexadecenyl Succinoyl Cysteine, Sodium Phytate, Citric Acid.

Epicutis Hyvia Crème ($195.00 when sold alone) is a creamy-dreamy facial cream with a delectable velvety texture. It is thick and rich, but it melts into the skin and doesn't leave behind a sticky or greasy residue. It deeply nourishes and moisturizes the skin and leaves it soft, smooth, supple and luminous. Furthermore, when used in conjunction with the Epicutis Lipid Serum, skin is treated to serious pampering. My skin has a kind of indescribably clarity and luminosity, and it remains comfortably hydrated and moisturized all day long. It has a very light aroma– which is informed by its ingredients, not artificial fragrance– but it is light, pleasant and it fades quickly. This cream can be used morning and night, and like the serum it is quite concentrated. After prolonged use, it is supposed to fade hyperpigmentation, but since I use retinol, most of my small spots of sun damage have faded considerably.

According to Epicutis,

This rich, velvety treatment crème is the perfect marriage of nature and science—our proprietary powerhouses, backed by a fresh crop of pure, responsibly sourced botanicals with proven skin benefits.

HYVIA®, a patented moisturizing agent derived from organic non-GMO chia seed oil, instantly drenches the skin in deep hydration while blocking blue light damage. DSD works to shield the skin from harmful aggressors like UV rays.

Shea butter and evening primrose extract are also hard at work, helping the skin absorb and retain key nutrients and antioxidants—for a complexion that instantly looks plump and dewy, with additional skin-health benefits that build over time.

Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:
  • HYVIA® to boost hydration + barrier function.
  • DSD to help protect skin from environmental aggressors.
  • Shea butter for deep conditioning with a dewy finish.
  • Evening primrose extract to brighten + fade hyperpigmentation.
Directions: Apply a pea-sized amount to generously cover the face, neck, décolleté, and eye area. Gently spread and press until absorbed into the skin. For optimal results, use morning and night.

Ingredients: Water, Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Pentylene Glycol, Limnanthes Alba Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Stearyl Alcohol, Steareth-20, Tocopherol, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, DSD (Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine), Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract, Ceramide NP, Isocetyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Phytosterols, Ferulic Acid, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Seed Extract, Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Sodium Phytate, Potassium Hydroxide.
Overall Assessment: These are ultra-luxe treats for the skin, and they are wonderful separately, but even better together. I love how hydrated and luminous my skin is when I use these two products together. After having tried a few of their products, I am curious to try more of their offerings since they are really quite effective, and such a pleasure to use.

$395.00 for the set ($445.00 when sold separately) from Epicutis and eCosmetics (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Tuesday, October 6, 2026

APRILSKIN Mugwort Calming Sunscreen SPF50 Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

K-Beauty sister brand to medicube, APRILSKIN recently launched their lightweight SPF serum on Amazon, and it is definitely a noteworthy find. 

APRILSKIN Mugwort Calming Sunscreen SPF50 is a lightweight serum-like chemical sunscreen that absorbs quickly and leaves behind no white cast or an unpleasant greasy residue. If offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and it is infused with soothing mugwort and brightening niacinamide. Formulated for all types of skin, this sunscreen is fragrance-free and it helps calm irritated skin, and is even suitable for sensitive skin. As with every sunscreen– even with a high SPF– they only remain effective if one reapplies them as directed. I typically reapply every 75-90 minutes.

According to APRILSKIN,

Defends your skin against harmful UV rays with high-performance, broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection to help protect skin from UV exposure.

Driven by Mugwort to help soothe stressed skin and Niacinamide to help balance excess oil and improve the skin barrier.

A weightless, fast-absorbing formula that provides lasting hydration without leaving a white cast, heavy feel, or greasy residue.

Formulated to deeply hydrate, help support the skin's moisture barrier, and instantly cool skin temperature. Rigorously tested to be non-comedogenic, low-irritating, and fragrance-free.

Clinically tested to blend invisibly into all skin tones with zero chalky residue. A transparent, low-irritating finish for even the most sensitive skin.

Directions: Smooth evenly onto your face and neck as the final step of your skincare routine.

Ingredients: See below.

Overall Assessment: This is a very nice sunscreen, and it feels wonderful on the skin. If you prefer mineral sunscreens, then you may not be interested in this one since it is of the chemical variety, but it is effective and pleasant to use.

$21.80 for 1.69 oz. (at the time of this writing it was on sale for $13.00) from the APRILSKIN Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Monday, October 5, 2026

Amazon Prime Day is Tuesday, October 6 Through Wednesday, October 7

(Affiliate Links)

Amazon Prime Day is Tuesday, October 6 through Wednesday, October 7! Save on everything imaginable! Whether you are buying things to enjoy during the fall or you are doing holiday shopping, the deep discounts will save you a bundle. One of my favorite things to shop for are discounts on streaming services such as Britbox, Acorn TV, etc. They offer heavy discounts for a few months, and that gives you enough time to watch the shows you love, and decide whether you want to subscribe longer term. 

Visit: www.amazon.com

Saturday, October 3, 2026

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Week in Review

PURELY BELLA Dream Skin Night Cream is a luxurious nighttime retinoid cream that moisturizes, nourishes and pampers the skin without leaving it dry, irritated or flaky. Lola's Secret Beauty Blog loves that it gently encourages skin cell turnover and leaves skin moisturized.

It's October, so now is your chance to choose outfits for the Spooky Season! Angie from Your True Self Blog has all the outfit ideas and style elements you need to celebrate Halloween every day this month. Age doesn't matter.

Dental care matters, but the cost can make it easy to put it off. In this post, Barbie from Barbie’s Beauty Bits discusses how dental plans can help make a healthier smile more affordable.

Friday, October 2, 2026

KISS NEW YORK Bright Vita Charge Toner Pad Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)
 
K-Beauty brand, KISS NEW YORK, is one of those brands that I like more and more with each new product that I test out. Their products are affordable, effective and a pleasure to use.

Kiss New York Bright Charge Vita Pad is my latest discovery from the brand, and it does not disappoint. This two-sided exfoliating pad is formulated to be used after cleansing the skin, and it removes anything that the cleanser may have missed. It gently exfoliates dead skin cells and it can be used by all skin types, including sensitive skin. Each pad is soaked in a blend of AHA and BHA to exfoliate the skin and refine the pores, but it is balanced by the use of ingredients such as Panthenol and Allantoin to calm the skin. Additionally, it includes brightening ingredients such as Niacinamide, Glutathione, and CoQ10 that help to brighten the skin, fade dark spots and leave the skin luminous. I find that it effectively exfoliates my normal/combination skin without drying it out or irritating it in any way. One side gently exfoliates, while the other sides smoothes the skin. It includes fragrance among its ingredients, and I would describe it as a light and pleasant citrus scent.

As with all exfoliating products, it is important to have your skin evaluated by your doctor or dermatologist to make sure that you are not exfoliating what could be precancerous or cancerous skin lesions. It is also imperative to use high SPF sunscreens when using products of this type.
According to KISS NEW YORK,

Experience the ultimate skincare upgrade with the Kiss New York Daily Toner Pad collection. Designed for those who demand efficiency without sacrificing results, these pre-soaked toner pads offer a one-step care solution that transforms your complexion after every cleanse. 

Whether you are battling stubborn pores or looking to revive a dull skin tone, our dual-action formula ensures your skin remains moisturized, exfoliated, and perfectly balanced. Choose between our two specialized formulas to meet your unique skin goals. The Clear Refine Pore pad is an essential for sensitive skin types. Formulated with a powerhouse blend of AHA and BHA, it dives deep to dissolve makeup residue and sebum, while Panthenol and Allantoin work in harmony to soothe irritation and strengthen the skin barrier. 

For those seeking a luminous, 'glass skin' effect, the Bright Vita Charge pad utilizes Niacinamide, Glutathione, and CoQ10 to brighten dark spots and even out skin tone. The addition of PHA ensures that even the most delicate skin can enjoy gentle exfoliation without redness. 

Features & Claims:
  • These dual-sided toner pads provide comprehensive post-cleansing care by removing makeup residue, gently exfoliating, and smoothing skin texture in one easy swipe.
  • The Bright Vita Charge features a potent blend of Niacinamide, Glutathione, CoQ10, and PHA to deliver a soothing effect and visible brightening care.
  • The specialized embossed side effectively lifts away impurities and dead skin cells, while the smooth side delivers deep hydration and calms the skin for a refined finish.
  • Unlike traditional liquid toners, these pre-soaked pads can be used as a targeted mini mask on areas requiring extra moisture or intensive pore care.
  • Designed for convenient and hygienic use, these pads replace the need for separate cotton pads and toner, streamlining your routine for smooth skin and a healthy glow.
KISS NEW YORK'S Directions: Our dual-sided facial pads feature a textured embossed side designed to physically and chemically lift away dead skin cells and impurities. Flip the pad over to the smooth side to refine your skin texture and prep your face for serums and moisturizers. 

For an extra boost of hydration, place the smooth side on your cheeks or forehead for 3-5 minutes as a mini mask. Our pore pads are housed in a secure packaging system that prevents evaporation. Use the enclosed tweezers to pick up each pad, ensuring your skincare remains sterile and effective from the first pad to the last. 
Overall Assessment: These exfoliating pads are effective, gentle on my skin and quite affordable.

$15.99 for 5.46 oz (70 count) from the KISS NEW YORK Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Thursday, October 1, 2026

EPICUTIS Oil Cleanser Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I was recently introduced to several products from EPICUTIS, and I am quite impressed by their ultra-luxe textures and efficacy.

About EPICUTIS,

Epicutis® represents the forefront of skincare innovation, bringing together a team of respected scientists and health advocates united by a common goal: to bring real, measurable value to skincare.

In a field frequently dominated by empty promises and passing fads, we've dedicated ourselves to creating a new benchmark—one based on thorough research, observable results, and steadfast integrity.

The entirety of our library of ingredients are 100% non-toxic and non-disruptive. Every ingredient in our formulations are safe for all skin types. Our products are designed to strengthen and protect your barrier.

EWG Verified™ / Vegan / Non-GMO / Gluten-Free / 100% Non-Toxic / Sulfate Free Paraben Free / Cruelty Free / Synthetic Fragrance + Dye Free / Dermatologist Recommended / Responsibly Sourced + Produced / Not Tested On Animals / Meets California Recycling Standards / Prop 65 Compliant / Approved For Use In The EU.

EPICUTIS Oil Cleanser is a very luxurious cleansing oil, from its thick glass bottle– which can be recycled– to the lovely oil itself. EPICUTIS suggests applying the oil to dry skin– with dry hands– and then gently massaging it into the skin using a circular motion. Then wet your fingers and the oil emulsifies and then should be rinsed thoroughly. If you are an advocate of double cleansing– like me– then you will want to follow using your favorite cleanser. This cleansing oil leaves skin soft, smooth and hydrated, but without an oily residue left behind. It calms irritated skin, leaves it soft, thoroughly cleanses, effortlessly removes makeup and sunscreen and leaves skin beautifully hydrated. It has no added fragrance, and the faint aroma is from the ingredients themselves.

According to EPICUTIS,

Typical oil cleansers work great for preserving natural skin oils but don’t wash off completely, leaving your skin feeling greasy. EPICUTIS® Oil Cleanser uses two special botanical based fatty acids that when in contact with water create a mild cleansing action to leave the skin feeling soft, cleansed and not greasy.

We redefine how you clean your skin by using gentle yet effective oils to remove unwanted dirt, makeup, and oil without stripping your skin of what it needs.

Meadowfoam Seed Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil help unclog pores while melting away makeup, dirt, sebum, and sunscreen – creating a combination of powerful responsibly sourced botanicals to clean your skin the right way.

Directions: Dispense 2-3 pumps of Oil Cleanser onto clean, dry hands, and apply to a dry face. Use your fingertips to gently massage the cleanser into your skin in circular motions. Add a small amount of water to finger tips to emulsify the product, then rinse it thoroughly with water. For optimal results, use morning and night.

Select Ingredients and Their Attributes: 

  • HYVIA® to boost hydration and strengthen the skin barrier.
  • Hinoki Wood Oil to cleanse and calm skin.
  • Meadowfoam Seed Oil to unclog pores and hydrate.
  • Sunflower Seed Oil to melt away dirt and makeup.

Full Ingredients: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquioleate, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-2 Caprate, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Wood Oil, Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil.

Overall Assessment: What a luxurious, and effective cleansing oil. This is such a pleasure to use.

$85.00 for 4 oz. from EPICUTIS, eCosmetics and Just Glo Backbar & Skincare App (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.


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

Wednesday, September 30, 2026

September 2026 Empties for the Face, Hair & Body

 
Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

During the month of September, I managed to finish up 8 full-size products, and I loved and would happily use each of them again and again. Items such as face creams won't be replaced any time soon since I have so many open face creams that I need to finish first, and I always make a concerted effort to finish things up before they expire so that I avoid unnecessary waste, but sometimes that is hard to achieve when I test so many products on a regular basis. Here is what I finished up in September:

Trader Joe's Bergamot & Vetiver Scented Hand Soap: This was a limited-time hand soap, and it sold out. What an absolute delight this is, and I really hope that they bring it back. This beautiful citrusy floral scent is such a treat to the senses, and rather than drying out my hands, they are left lightly moisturized. A+ Purchase Again? I would in a heartbeat if they relaunched it!

($3.99 for 12 oz. from Trader Joe's).

Spongellé Hand Cream in Bulgarian Rose: Spongellé Hand Creams are the perfect antidote for dry hands during the cold months of the year. I have used their hand creams many years now, and I reach for them constantly. They feature ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Argan Oil and Macademia Seed Oil that deeply moisturize and heal chapped hands, and the Hyaluronic Acid retains moisture and plumps fine lines. After using these hand creams, my poor chapped hands have been soft, smooth, nourished, hydrated and luminous!

My favorite scent, and one that I have replaced more than once, is the Bulgarian Rose. If you are a fan of rose scented body care products, then this one should not be missed! It has an elegant and hypnotic rose aroma that is utterly beautiful and a delight to the senses. Bulgarian Rose: Top: Cinnamon Sticks, Sliced Ginger, Sweet Clove, Juicy Orange. Middle: Tuberose Base: Whipped Vanilla, Cozy Musk. Purchase Again? Definitely, but I need to use up some of my other hand creams first!

($21.00 for 2 oz. from Spongellé).

René Furterer 5 Sens Enhancing Dry Oil is a beautifully fast absorbing dry oil that can be used on the hair and body. It has a lovely soft aroma that is a treat to the senses, but it isn't long lasting or in the least bit cloying. When I use it on my body, it melts into the skin and leaves it soft, supple, hydrated and nourished. For the hair, it offers extraordinary hydration and leaves locks soft, smooth and manageable. It tames frizz and fly-aways, and it gives hair a glossy shine. Purchase Again? Without question, this dry oil is sublime!

($54.00 for 3.3 oz. from René Furterer, Amazon). 

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in Light Golden Chestnut 5D: For many years I used drugstore brand at-home hair dyes, but the last couple of times that I did I noticed that my scalp became dry and irritated. I decided to try something a little different, and I kept seeing Herbatint Permanent Hair Color Gel, and I decided to try it. This Italian brand, founded in 1970, is cruelty-free, vegan and it has a wide range of colors from which to choose. I have naturally curly dark brown hair that naturally lightens up in the summer, and therefore during the cooler months I tried their Light Chestnut 5N, and for the summer I tried their Light Golden Chestnut 5D, and both are stunning shades.

I mixed the hair color gel and the developer until it became a thick gel that was uniform in color. I carefully brushed it from roots to tips and then left it on for 40 minutes. This formula was tested on sensitive skin, and it definitely did not irritate, burn or tingle my scalp. I rinsed it out after 40 minutes and then applied their wonderful Royal Cream Conditioner– which comes with the hair color. This conditioner is lightweight and yet incredibly emollient and moisturizing. When I was done my hair was uniformly a gorgeous chestnut shade, but it was darker than on the box since my hair was quite dark to start with.

This formula neither dries out my scalp, nor my hair, and the color lasts for a few months before I need a touch up.

Herbatint encourages mixing shades to customize your hair color, and they also suggest that you can mix up just a small amount if you only need to do root-touch up. Whether you have any grey hair you seek to cover, or just roots that differ from the rest of your color, then just doing a root touch-up makes a lot of sense. I don't have much grey hair, but there are some strands here and there, and this does an excellent job of covering them. I simply use half the normal amount, as Herbatint suggests, and it works perfectly! Purchase Again? I already have– in fact the last time that they had a sale, I bought quite a few boxes!

($17.99 from Amazon, iHerb, Walmart).
Bloomeffects Royal Tulip Cleansing Jelly: This is such a special and unique cleanser, and is such a distinct pleasure to use. The jelly melts into a glorious balm when it meets the warmth of the skin, and then it emulsifies into a milky emulsion in the presence of water. Simply massage it into the skin and it effectively removes dirt, makeup and sunscreen, and it rinses clean without leaving behind any sort of residue. This antioxidant-rich formula leaves skin soft, glowing and hydrated. Purchase Again? I am currently swimming in open tubes of cleansers that I need to finish first, but I would happily use this wonderful cleanser again!

($29.00 for 3.5 oz. from Amazon, Ulta, Credo Beauty and Bluemercury).

Dr. BRID C Barrier Defense Basic Cream is a daily moisturizer– for the morning and night– suitable for all types of skin, including for with sensitive skin. The peptide-rich formula was created to support the skin's moisture barrier to protect it from environmental stressors that can wreak havoc on the skin. It is a lightweight and fast absorbing cream that leaves skin soft, smooth, hydrated and luminous. It leaves behind no unwanted greasy residue and has no detectable scent. It is a really nice, hardworking and dependable daily moisturizer that feels luxurious. Furthermore, this cruelty- free K-Beauty brand makes affordable products that are an absolute joy to use. Purchase Again? Definitely, but not until I need more face cream!

($19.99 for 0.67 oz. from their Amazon Store). 

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. Purchase Again? I already opened another tube! 

($21.99 for 0.68 oz. from their Amazon Store). 

Victoria Beckham Beauty Eye Khol Pencil in Bronze: This brand makes my very favorite eyeliner pencils and their Bronze and Cocoa shades are my very favorite colors to wear daily. I think that the formula is absolutely superior to everything else on the market. They are creamy to the touch, ultra-pigmented, and once they set they do not budge. They are waterproof without being harsh, and they glide across the skin effortlessly, deposit color evenly and they do not bleed or feather. There is a sponge-tip applicator on each liner that allows you to smudge effortlessly, and you have enough time to smudge before the liners set. On me, these liners stay put until I remove them at the end of the day. Bronze is aptly described as, "a golden brown with shimmer"– and it is gorgeous!

Victoria Beckham Beauty is a cruelty-free brand, and these liners are infused with Vitamin E, hydrating pro-vitamin B5, and calming chamomile. They are quite kind and gentle to sensitive eyes like mine, and they can also be used on the waterline and for tight-lining– though I avoid shades with shimmer for tight-lining. The colors are spectacularly beautiful independently, but they can also be blended to soften or intensify the lighter and darker shades, respectively. I like to wear several of them at the same time. For instance, I like to first line my upper and lower lids with a color such as Bronze, and then I smudge Black into my lash line to intensify the effect, but also to frame my eyes using a darker color in my lash line for a more stunning visual effect. is a decadent rich matte brown. Purchase Again? I already have! 

Overall Assessment: As I said above, I loved everything that I finished up in September, and would happily use all of them again. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in September? Did you make any amazing product discoveries, or were you disappointed by mediocre over-hyped products? Do tell!

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

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