lola's secret beauty blog

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

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.

Tuesday, October 27, 2026

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.

Monday, October 26, 2026

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.

Sunday, October 25, 2026

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Late October Week in Review

Topanga Scents Goats Milk Lotion– in Santa Monica and The Grove– nourish and moisturize the skin, and Lola's Secret Beauty Blog loves their aromas and that the lotions are each named after well-known Los Angeles locales.

Barrel jeans are still super trendy and Nancy from Nancy's Fashion Style already has 4 pairs. Is that the start of an addiction? In this post she shows her brown ones combined with a raspberry knit top and slouchy boots.

Terri from Our Good Life discusses 7 Self-Care Essentials for the Holidays, and she emphasizes that taking time for yourself is an important part of enjoying the festivities, rather than simply getting through them.

Leave the werewolf look to your Halloween costume! Say goodbye to unwanted hair this Halloween with laser hair removal. Barbie from Barbie’s Beauty Bits shares what to know about this long-lasting treatment for smoother skin.

From her Animal Print Series on Your True Self Blog, Angie is sharing a style tip on how to use leopard prints in new ways. It takes some thinking outside the box and putting a twist on your usual outfits. Older is bolder, so age doesn’t matter.

Saturday, October 24, 2026

Bergdorf Goodman 125th Anniversary Beauty Gift with Purchase

(Affiliate Links)

For their 125th Anniversary, Bergdorf Goodman is having a beauty gift with purchase. While Spend $375.00+ on beauty and you will receive a complimentary 10-piece deluxe gift (9 deluxe product samples and a Bergdorf Goodman train case). Free shipping with purchases of when $150.00 or more. Use Code: SHIPBG at checkout. Offer Ends 11/1/26. While supplies last.

Beauty Bag: Your gift with any qualifying beauty purchase of $375 or more, while supplies last. Offer ends 11/1/26. Quantities limited. Offer online and in store. Online offer may vary. Qualifying items will be designated on the site; some exclusions apply. For online orders, gift will be automatically added at checkout if available and shipped at the time of your order; one gift per order, per customer, while supplies last. The value of your beauty order must total $375 before shipping & tax. Does not apply to previous purchases.

Visit: www.bergdorfgoodman.com

Friday, October 23, 2026

Philip B Forever Shine Body Wash Review

Gift from my sister (Affiliate Links)

I was utterly delighted when my sister gave me three beautiful products from Philip B. I have loved Philip B products as long as I can remember, and their ultra-luxe haircare and body care products are a serious joy to use.

Philip B Forever Shine Body Wash is the most luxurious and utterly delectable body wash that I have ever used. It is quite moisturizing, it has a very creamy and satisfying lather, and the aroma is a dream! This isn't just ultra-luxe, it is actually quite decadent to use– especially when paired with the Philip B Forever Shine Body Cream (review forthcoming)– and the aroma lingers beautifully. This is the same wondrous Royal Oud from their iconic shampoo and conditioner, and this permutation– the fresh Velvet Oud– blends the woodsy oud with fruit and floral top and middle notes. The end result is an intoxicatingly beautiful oud that is lightened by the fresh fruits and florals. It is strikingly gorgeous, and such a pleasure to use. I always pair it with their body cream for a satisfying and luxurious treat to the senses.

According to Philip B,

This luxurious daily wash contains a mix of skin-care powerhouses to leave you feeling cleansed and refreshed. Amino Acids and Peptides support radiant, healthy-looking skin, while Safflower Oleosomes help lock in moisture for a soft, dewy feel.

The fresh Velvet Oud scent (with citrus notes that open to florals and exotic woods) is naturally derived, sophisticated and spirit-lifting.

Notes:

Mandarin, Peach, Apple, Lemon
Jasmine, Rose, Lily of the Valley
Oud, Sandalwood, Patchouli

Directions: Dispense directly onto your hands or loofah and massage over wet skin to form a rich foam, then rinse thoroughly.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, PEG-25 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Acrylates Copolymer, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Peptide, Sodium Hydroxide, Linalool, Sodium PCA, Limonene, Sodium Lactate, Arginine, Benzyl Salicylate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Aspartic Acid, Disodium EDTA, PCA, Hydroxycitronellal, PEG-4 Dilaurate, PEG-4 Laurate, Citronellol, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Geraniol, Glycine, Alanine, Coumarin, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, PEG-1M, Serine, Valine, Tetrasodium EDTA, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Ethylhexylglycerin, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 15985 (Yellow 6), CI 16035 (Red 40), Tin Oxide (CI 77861), CI 42090 (Blue 1).

Overall Assessment: I am eternally grateful to my beloved sister for such an amazing gift! 🩷🩷🩷 A+

$85.00 for 11.8 oz. from Philip B, the Philip B Amazon Store, Macy's, Bloomingdale's and Harrods (Affiliate Links). Gift from my sister. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Thursday, October 22, 2026

Affordable & Very Stylish Square Green and White Geometric Pouf

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

On my recent quest to find a very stylish pouf to go with my modern furniture, I decided to find something more affordable but that would be comfortable and modern. My primary motivation was to find a footrest for my chair, but I also wanted it to provide extra seating, when needed. I searched high and low in-person and online, and the moment I happened upon the World Market Square Green and White Cotton Geo Pouf, I purchased it. I bought it online and then picked it up in person because I wanted the ability to return it on the spot, rather than ship it back, if I didn't like it. Luckily, I loved it the moment I saw it! It is lightweight, and therefore easy to move around, and it is a cotton and polyester blend. It is stylish, gorgeous, affordable and it is eclectic enough to go with a wide range of styles. This was an excellent purchase, and I couldn't be happier that I bought this practical pouf!

According to World Market,

Add an effortlessly boho vibe to any living room, bedroom, or reading nook with our exclusive square pouf. It's skillfully handcrafted in India with a 100% cotton fabric printed with a white and green geometric pattern, creating a focal point of both rich texture and global pattern. An ottoman, an extra seat, and chic decor all in one - this multifunctional cushion is the perfect solution for small spaces.

Features:

Handcrafted of polyester and cotton with foam filling
Due to handcrafting, slight variations may occur
Spot clean only
World Market exclusive
Dimensions: 20"Sq. x 14"H

Overall Assessment: This will be great year round, and it is a perfect foot rest, but it will also prove to be vital added seating during the holidays! I am so happy with my purchase!

$99.99 from World Market (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Manyo Azulene Hyaluronic 2X Soothing Dual Cream Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Manyo Azulene Hyaluronic 2X Soothing Dual Cream is a very gentle, and deeply hydrating, cream that is formulated for even the most sensitive types of skin. Ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid provide the skin with sustained hydration, while the Azulene cools the skin and reduces redness and inflammation. It contains no fragrance, has no detectable scent, and it melts into the skin without leaving behind any sort of oily, greasy or sticky residue. It is mid-weight and it feels lovely on the skin. I note after use that my skin feels soft, smooth, supple, hydrated and looks luminous. When my skin is irritated from testing certain products, this immediately calms and soothes the skin. When I first squeezed the tube the cream came out white, but from that point forward it swirled out with a mixture of blue and white cream.

According to Manyo,

Powered by Azulene, this cream delivers instant cooling relief, prevents daytime flushing, and strengthens the skin barrier for long-term redness reduction.

Formulated with pharmaceutical-level 330ppm Azulene, delivering a powerful 79.5% calming effect to instantly cool and soothe flushed skin. Clinically tested to reduce visible redness by 29.28% after just one use, calming flushed, irritated skin fast.

Keeps skin deeply hydrated around the clock, retaining moisture for a full 7 days so redness stays away before it starts.

Extremely sensitive and acne-skin safe with a 0.00 irritation score, non-comedogenic certified, and formulated with no added fragrances.

Directions: Apply after toner and serum as the final moisturizing step. Take an appropriate amount and gently spread across face. Pat lightly for better absorption. Use morning and night for 24-hour redness protection.

Ingredients: See below (click on picture to enlarge).

Overall Assessment: If you are looking for an affordable and effective cream that hydrates and soothes the skin, this is a wonderful choice.

$17.90- $19.70 for 2.02 oz. from Amazon and StyleKorean (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Set of 6 Stylish Silicone Coasters for the Holidays!

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

If you are planning to entertain during the holidays, and need to protect your furniture with effective coasters, then I just purchased some stylish silicone coasters that really do the trick!

Colinda Silicone Coasters, set of 6 with a holder, are non-slip for both hot and cold drinks. What makes these even more effective is the fact that the raised pattern allows condensation to sit below your glass or mug, and therefore there is no sweating on your furniture surface.

Cool Grey

According to Colinda,

Coasters set of 6 has 3 carved and decorative patterns. Six coasters and a color matched holder are included in the set, with two coasters each of three patterns. Gift box packaging. Round 3.9" is a nice size for most cups and mugs. Ideal for room and home decor. Good for outdoor use as well.

The carved patterns on the coasters add depth and “grip”to the coasters so they can capture moisture or condensation from the ice cold drinks.The glasses and the ceramic cups don't stick to the surface. It is great for cold drink as well ask hot drink.

These soft and flexible coasters will protect your glass/wooden table or desk from scratches. They can also be effectively insulated, and when you enjoy hot drinks, it will not leave any traces left by the hot water on the table.The double sided groove design make it great slip-resistant as well, to prevent your cup fall off.

Simply hand-wash our trivet silicone or put it into the dishwasher. Virtually everything washes off the nonstick surface with ease—even sticky foods. The drink coasters set are made of 100% Silicone. BPA free.Heat resistant range from -40F to 480F. Storage the coasters set in the well-designed holder when you are not using them.

They are available in the 14 colors below, and I purchased the cool grey since it was a good match for my marble coffee table.

Overall Assessment: I am so happy with my purchase, and I may buy another set since they live on our nightstands, our desks and on our coffee table!

$12.99 for 6 coasters and a holder from Amazon (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Monday, October 19, 2026

Lancôme Gift with Purchase & The Holiday Beauty Box!

(Affiliate Links)

The Lancôme Gift with Purchase for the season is here! Only available directly from Lancôme! GWP through October 23, or while supplies last.

Receive a 7-piece gift valued at $145.00 with your $42.50 Lancôme purchase. Online and in stores.

Lancôme Complimentary 7-Piece Gift with $42+ purchase (A $125 Value):

Gift Includes:

• Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Cream 15ml

• Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover 50ml

• Lip Idôle Butterglow Lip Balm, Shade 10

• Génifique Ultimate Serum 7ml

• Génifique Ultimate Eye Cream 5ml

• Mini Lip Idôle Lip Shaper, Shade 36

• Pouch

+ BONUS GIFT! Spend $100+ and also receive a 2-Piece Gift.

Gift Includes:

• Renergie Lift Multi-Action Night Cream 15ml

• Tonique Confort Toner 125ml

*No code required. While supplies last. This is in addition to your 7-piece gift. A total value $193.

THE 2026 HOLIDAY BEAUTY BOX IS HERE!

11 Piece Set with 7 Full-Size Favorites

Only $89 with ANY purchase (A $616 Value)!*

Dimensions: 12W x 8H x 6.2D

*Limit 1 unit per transaction. Must have at least 1 other product in cart to purchase Beauty Box. Beauty Box cannot be combined with other discounts. While supplies last.

Note: To ensure your Beauty Box arrives safely, your Beauty Box order will arrive in two packages. To receive additional tracking information for your second parcel you may reach out to our customer service team here.