lola's secret beauty blog

Saturday, September 12, 2026

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Week in Review

Nancy from Nancy's Fashion Style celebrated her birthday a few weeks ago and wrote a post about it. She wanted to keep the beautiful memory on her blog as she was so touched by the love and warmth she received from her loved ones.

If you need a little extra under-eye hydration, and want to reduce the appearance of puffiness, fine lines and dark circles, then Westman Atelier Eye Activator Serum is a perfect pick. Lola's Secret Beauty Blog highly recommends this gem.

Terri from Our Good Life says that beauty isn’t about chasing youth or perfection—it’s about caring for ourselves, expressing who we are, and finding pleasure in the little rituals that make us feel beautiful.

Wearing black may be slimming, but it’s not flattering to most complexions and can be boring without plenty of texture. That’s why the proverbial pop of color is so popular. Angie from Your True Self Blog has a simple style tip on how to spice up a black outfit that really makes a difference!

Friday, September 11, 2026

Kiss New York Skin Plump Vita Hydra Serum Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Manufactured in Korea and designed in New York, Kiss New York is a K-Beauty brand that just launched their skincare line on Amazon, and their products are effective and affordable.

Kiss New York Vita Hydra Serum is Hyaluronic Acid-based hydrating serum that contains 5 different types of Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Niacinamide and Centella Asiatica to bathe skin in rich hydration. It soothes irritated skin, plumps fine lines and helps protect the skin barrier. The serum has a gel consistency, and it melts into the skin without leaving behind a sticky or greasy residue. I find that it leaves my skin beautifully hydrated all day long, and when I use it at night, my skin is noticeably hydrated and luminous the following morning.

According to Kiss New York,

Transform dry, dehydrated skin into a dewy, glowing complexion with Kiss New York Vita Hydra Serum. This multi-vitamin powerhouse is expertly formulated to deliver intense hydration deep into the skin's layers while strengthening the moisture barrier Featuring a proprietary Deep Hydration Complex of 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramide NP, it instantly relieves tightness and locks in moisture for a plump, smooth finish. Enriched with Centella Asiatica, it soothes sensitive skin, leaving it balanced and refreshed without any sticky residue.

Features & Claims:

Multi-Vitamin Skincare Power: Each serum in the KISS NEW YORK Vita line is formulated with essential vitamins and skin-benefiting actives to target toned skin, hydration, or firmness with visible results.

Deep Hydration Complex: Featuring 5 Types of Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Centella Asiatica, this serum deeply hydrates multiple layers of skin for a plumper, smoother, glass glow appearance.

Lightweight & Fast-Absorbing: The silky, emulsion-type texture glides smoothly onto the skin, absorbing quickly without stickiness, perfect for layering under makeup or daily moisturizers.

Gentle Formula: Gentle formulations suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Free from harsh alcohols and parabens.

Directions: After cleansing and toning, apply a generous amount of Vita Collagen Serum to your face and neck.

Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:

5 Hyaluronic Acids: hydrate multiple layers of skin.
Ceramide NP: helps lock in moisture and repair barrier.
Niacinamide: improves smoothness and tone.
Centella Asiatica: soothes and calms skin.

Full Ingredients:

Overall Assessment: Not only is this an effective Hyaluronic Acid serum, but it is also quite affordable.

$14.99 for 1.01 oz: from the Kiss New York Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Thursday, September 10, 2026

TIRTIR Matcha PDRN Bubble Tea Scrub Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

TIRTIR Matcha PDRN Bubble Tea Scrub is another fantastic product that I have been using from TIRTIR's Matcha Collection. This gentle exfoliating gel can be customized to address the particular needs of your skin. If, for instance, you want a very gentle exfoliation, then use the gel alone, but if you desire a deeper level of exfoliation, then you simply include the Bubble Tea Matcha Pearls that are suspended in the gel for a deeper exfoliation. It has a very faint aroma from the ingredients, and not from added fragrance, but the scent is so faint that it is barely detectable to my nose. This scrub effectively removes dead skin cells not just from manual massaging, but also from the Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid and Lactic Acid– which effectively remove dead skin cells, as well. It leaves my skin soft, smooth, supple and hydrated, rather than dry and taught. The inclusion of the Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)– which is such a smart idea in a face scrub– ensures that the skin receives hydration, and therefore isn't stripped or left dry and irritated.

According to TIRTIR,

Gently exfoliates, refines pores, calms and soothes skin, reduces redness, supports skin barrier, and controls sebum.

Inspired by bubble tea, adjust exfoliation by mixing matcha pearls as desired. A naturally derived konjac gel base gently refines texture, helping remove up to 84.9% of dead skin cells without irritation.

Infused with 5,000ppm Jeju-derived Vegan Matcha PDRN and green tea catechins to visibly calm stressed, irritated redness of skin while supporting collagen and skin renewal.

A 6-Ceramide Complex and soothing 5-TECA known to help reinforce the skin barrier, keeping skin hydrated, comfortable, and resilient even after exfoliation.

Maintain your skin's natural harmony with a low pH of 6.6. Balanced exfoliation refines pores and smooth uneven texture without disrupting your skin’s natural balance.

Reduce excess sebum by 29.06% after one use, leaving pores looking clearer and skin feeling fresh, smooth, and refined.

Directions: Apply to damp face, gently massage in circular motions, adjust exfoliation intensity by mixing matcha pearls as desired, rinse off, use daily.

Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid and Lactic Acid.

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Arginine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Agar, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Dipropylene Glycol, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Dextrin, CI 77499 /Iron Oxide Black, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Maltodextrin, CI 77491/Iron Oxide Red, Gluconolactone, Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium DNA, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sucrose Stearate, Ceramide NP, Camellia Sinensis Catechins, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Ceramide NS, Ceramide NG, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Ceramide EOP.

Overall Assessment: What a wonderful, and innovative, skin scrub!

$20.00 for 3.35 oz. from TIRTIR, StyleVana, Amazon & YesStyle (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum for the Face Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

During the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I just couldn't convince myself not to buy the Westman Atelier Serum Duo (Westman Atelier Eye Activator Serum Reviewed HERE), and I am glad because I really love the face and eye serums.

Gucci Westman discusses the creation of the Westman Atelier Serums with the leading skin scientist, Dr. Raymond Park:

'Everything starts with the quality of the skin—including your makeup,' says Gucci of the impetus behind Skin Activator, the new Westman Atelier skincare serum packed with 12 potent actives that doubles as a luxurious makeup prep. Decades spent working as an editorial makeup artist in fashion and film has taught her that 'you’re only as good as your canvas,' Gucci continues. So when it came to formulating her first-ever pure skincare formula, she was on a major mission.

'I wanted something to intensively hydrate, calm, and tighten the skin,' Gucci recalls of a five-year journey in formulation that ultimately took her to Korea. There, she worked with leading skin scientist Dr. Raymond Park, whose breakthroughs include creating the world's first non-prescription formula to heal the skin barrier. When it came to her own dream skincare formula, Gucci says, 'it had to contain the right actives, at the right levels, to really correct and protect skin. And it had to work flawlessly with your makeup.

Together, they collaborated on a smart, skin-identical formula that includes four types of hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide, prickly pear extract, and more. By harnessing an innovative delivery system known as multi-lamellar technology, the serum mimics skin’s natural structure, allowing it to deliver a checklist of highly stable ingredients—without disrupting it.

'My skin instantly feels juicier, tighter, more harmonious and awake,' Gucci says of gliding on three pumps of the weightless gel, which works for all ages and skin types, every morning. Whether she follows with face moisturizer or skips straight to foundation, 'it takes my skin—and my makeup—to the next level.' Before bed, she applies it again as an overnight treatment: 'When I wake up, my skin looks so calm, so even, so hydrated and healthy.'

Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum is a formulated to protect the skin barrier, to deeply hydrate and calm the skin, and to soften the appearance of fine lines. Furthermore, this serum– which boasts 12 potent actives and 4 types of Hyaluronic Acid– makes my skin feel a bit more firm without feeling tight or unnatural. When my skin is irritated it calms down any redness, and it floods it with sustained hydration throughout the day. It is a lightweight and fast absorbing serum that melts into the skin, and it doesn't leave behind an oily or sticky residue. While it offers my skin deep hydration, I still use my face oil and a moisturizer after it sinks in, but I have tested it without either and my skin looked and felt beautifully hydrated, soft, supple and luminous. I love a good serum, and this is definitely that. It has no detectable aroma, and is such a joy to use. They offer refills– which is such a nice feature– and next time I will order that instead since buying the refills saves you $25.00.

According to Westman Atelier,

A hyper-potent serum that floods skin with 12 actives to soften fine lines, boost firmness and deeply hydrate.

This all-in-1 serum works in 3 ways for happier skin with every dose. 12 key ingredients plus smart, skin-identical science that’s made for all skin types.

Developed in partnership with Korea’s leading skin scientist and powered by a multi-lamellar delivery system, this formula deposits the right actives—at the right levels—without disrupting skin.

Wear it alone to boost skin quality or as the ultimate makeup prep. Your best skin activated – with or without makeup.

Claims:

Restores: Strengthens moisture barrier, skin feels hydrated, bouncy, calm.

Corrects: Lines look softer, skin looks lifted, feels firmer, pores appear smaller.

Protects: Antioxidants help prevent future damage.

Fragrance-free. Non-comedogenic. Dermatologist tested.

Directions: Dispense a dime-sized amount & apply onto cleansed skin morning and/or night. Gently massage all over face, neck and décolletage. Most feel intensely hydrated, but if you wish you can apply your face oil and/or moisturizer directly followed by your SPF.

Ingredients & Their Attributes:

Prickly Pear Cactus Extract – Calms.
L-Glutamine – Restores.
Ceramides – Strengthens Moisture Barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid (4 Types) - Plumps, Hydrates.
Niacinamide - Evens Tone, Targets Pores.
Peptides - Firms.
Noni Fruit — Repairs.
Fermented Algae — Boosts Radiance.
Adenosine — Smooths Lines.
L-Arginine — Restores Bounce.
EGCG — Neutralizes Free Radicals.
Probiotics — Strengthens Skin’s Defenses.

Full Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactobacillus Ferment, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Distearate, Xanthan Gum, Sorbitan Stearate, Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Juice, Palmitic Acid, Sclerotium Gum, Lecithin, Stearic Acid, Pullulan, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Arginine, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Adenosine, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cystoseira Tamariscifolia Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Glutamine, Maltodextrin, Olive Glycerides, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benzoate, Silica, Potassium Sorbate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Biotinoyl Hexapeptide-2 Amide, Beta-Glucan, PCA, Myristyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceramide NP, Gluconolactone, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Swertia Chirata Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Calcium Gluconate, Tin Oxide.

Westman Atelier Serum Duo (Face & Eye Serum Set) $180.00 from Nordstrom

Overall Assessment: Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum is an effective serum, and it makes my skin look and feel so good. It is quite expensive, but that is why I opted to buy the serum duo from Nordstrom because it offered a substantial savings. The set is still available, and I may need to buy a backup set with my gift card! However, when I just need to replace the serum, I will definitely purchase the refill since it will save me $25.00/ A+

$150.00 for 0.67 oz. from Westman Atelier, Nordstrom, Sephora, Credo Beauty & Bergdorf Goodman. Westman Atelier Serum Duo (Face & Eye Serum Set) $180.00 from Nordstrom (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Tuesday, September 8, 2026

manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 is a high SPF sunscreen that is intended to feel more like a nourishing skincare product, than a traditional sunscreen, and I can emphatically say that I think that they have succeeded. This sunscreen is moisturizing, as its name suggests, and includes skin-loving ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin and Niacinamide. It glides across the skin with ease, creates a wonderful base for makeup, and it feels light and airy on the skin– again, as the name suggests. It leaves behind no residue, no white cast and it offers skin excellent protection– provided that you reapply it often (manyo suggests every two hours, but I tend to reapply between 1 and 1 1/2 hours). It has a light aroma, but it isn't long lasting or in the least but intrusive. I should also state that I absolutely love the pointed applicator tip because it allows you to control the flow of sunscreen from the tube, and I never end up with far more than I need. This is a very solid performing sunscreen, but if you only like to use mineral sunscreens, then be advised that this is a chemical sunscreen.

According to manyo.

As Korean skincare continues to shape the U.S. beauty conversation, manyo is bringing a skincare-first approach to daily sun protection with the launch of the Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream. FDA registered as an OTC sunscreen in the U.S., the formula is tested to deliver SPF 50 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection while feeling lightweight, hydrating and comfortable enough for everyday wear.

Designed to feel more like skincare than a traditional sunscreen, manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream delivers broad spectrum SPF protection in a lightweight, hydrating formula that leaves no white cast, no stickiness and no greasy residue. The silky, air-light texture melts into skin for a soft, bare-skin finish, making it ideal for seamless makeup prep. The formula also offers a more comfortable sunscreen experience overall. Instead of an overpowering, greasy sunscreen odor, manyo provides an elevated user experience with a refreshing, spa-like scent. It was also created to feel comfortable around the eyes, with a no-sting finish even when applied generously or worn during sweating or outdoor activities.

The formula is powered by Solv-mate Technology, an advanced UV technology that helps blend UV filters evenly with less heavy oil. By swapping heavy oil for a lighter specialized agent that holds UV filters, Solv-mate Technology helps deliver strong UVA/UVB protection with a smoother, lighter feel that absorbs quickly and leaves skin moisturized and residue-free.

Beyond sun protection, manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream is infused with a skincare-focused trio of Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to help visibly improve the look of dark spots, support a more even-looking complexion and replenish moisture depleted by UV exposure. The formula also includes Tocopherol, which helps reduce oxidative stress that can contribute to visible discoloration.

Directions: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply at least every two hours, and use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating. As a general rule of thumb, two fingers’ worth of product is recommended for daily facial application.

Ingredients: Active: Ensulizole 2.5%, Homosalate 5%, Octisalate 4.5%, Octocrylene 5%.

Inactive Ingredients: Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene, Propanediol, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Methylpropanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Behenyl Alcohol, Dimethiconol, Butylene Glycol, C11-13 Isoalkane, Dipropylene Glycol, Isododecane, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Tromethamine, Polyacrylic Acid, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Atlas Cedar Bark Oil, Hydroxyacetophenone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Polyether-1, Sphingomonas Ferment Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Rosemary Leaf Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Clary Sage Oil, Tocopherol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tranexamic Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate.

Overall Assessment: manyo is such a wonderful K-Beauty brand, and this sunscreen is very effective at protecting the skin from the sun, and it is hydrating. It definitely feels more like a skincare product that happens to contain an SPF, than a traditional sunscreen. I am quite impressed by this sunscreen.

$18.00 for 1.7 oz. from Amazon and Ulta (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Monday, September 7, 2026

Westman Atelier Eye Activator Serum Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

Westman Atelier Eye Activator Serum is a lightweight and fast absorbing serum that instantly hydrates the delicate skin under the eyes, and it effectively plumps fine lines, depuffs and lightens the appearance of dark circles. Furthermore, it leaves skin smooth, lifted and luminous. It is hydrating and nourishing enough that I use it in lieu of an eye cream, and it serves as a perfect base for under eye concealers. I have sensitive eyes, and this is gentle and it doesn't irritate them, or make them water. Furthermore, unlike richer eye creams, it never causes milia (which I often get when I use richer eye creams). The formula has a lightweight liquid gel-like consistency that immediately melts into the skin and it does not leave behind an oily or sticky residue.

Gucci Westman discusses the creation of the Westman Atelier serums with the leading skin scientist, Dr. Raymond Park:

According to Westman Atelier,

Potent-yet-gentle eye serum. Smooth fine lines, brighten dark circles, reduce puffiness and firm in just 4 weeks.

This multi-lamellar, skin compatible formula delivers a layered release of 12 actives - without disrupting skin. Powered by a 2-step, skin-smart system to jumpstart skin renewal.

Step 1: Brightens and depuffs by combating dark circles and puffiness.

Step 2: Restorative, exosome technology goes deeper into skin’s surface for visible smoothing and firming.

Our proprietary complex of niacinamide and a potent, peptide trio are encapsulated in exosome technology - one of the most efficient ways to deliver actives to skin. Smaller than the size of a pore, this technology enhances active penetration for visible results in just 4 weeks.

Developed in partnership with Korea’s leading skin scientist. All skin types. No fragrance. Dermatologist tested.

Directions: Apply eye serum after face serum morning and night. Dispense product onto hand and apply with ring finger to the under eye and brow bone area. Tap gently in an upwards motion. Allow serum to fully dry down before applying concealer.

Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:

Suprême Skin Bio-Complex: Exclusive blend of Oligopeptide-1, Peptide Duo, Niacinamide. Jumpstarts skin renewal; smooths fine lines, brightens dark circles, firms.
Vitamin K1: Brightens dark circles, helps prevent sagging and fine lines, soothes.
Alfalfa Extract & White Lupin Protein: Helps reduce puffiness; tones eye area.
Ceramides & Triolein: Helps restore skin barrier; deeply hydrates.
Hyaluronic Acid: Firms, plumps and hydrates.
Pullulan: Helps instantly lift and firm.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Hydrates and soothes.
Alkanet Root Extract: Helps hydrates; gives formula its light pink hue.

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Distearate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Lupine Protein, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Extract, Alkanna Tinctoria Root Extract, Ceramide Np, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Oligopeptide-1, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide, Phytonadione Epoxide, Triolein, Panthenol, Mannitol, Pullulan, Adenosine, Beta-Sitosterol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Dioleate, Polylgyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Lecithin, Silica, Sodium Chloride, Dipotassium Phosphate, Potassium Phosphate, Cetyl Alcohol, Phosphatidylcholine, Phenylpropanol, Methylpropanediol, Sorbitan Stearate, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Polysorbate 80, Decyl Glucoside, 1,2- Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.

Westman Atelier Serum Duo ($180.00. A $270.00 value. This is a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale exclusive that is still available): This includes a full size Westman Atelier Eye Activator Serum and a full-size Westman Atelier Activator Serum.

Overall Assessment: I like this eye serum so much that I plan to repurchase it once I finish it. It plays well under an eye cream and a concealer and really is quite effective.

Westman Atelier Eye Activator Serum $120.00 for 0.50 oz. from Westman Atelier, Nordstrom, Sephora and Bergdorf Goodman (Affiliate Links).

Westman Atelier Serum Duo $180.00 ($270.00 value from Nordstrom) (Affiliate Links).

Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Sunday, September 6, 2026

Happy Labor Day Weekend with a Few Sun Safety Tips

Picture above taken in the garden at The Getty Center

If you are anything like me, and you plan to spend your Labor Day weekend enjoying the outdoors– then here are a few things to remember:

1) Make sure to have plenty of high SPF sunscreen on hand, and be sure to reapply it frequently. It might be worth using an SPF that is water-resistant or waterproof if you will be swimming, or sweating a lot in the hot sun.

2) Remember a wide-brim hat and sunglasses to give yourself more protection from the sun.

3) Consider UV protected clothing. SPF/UPF garments will bolster your SPF protection– and they are particularly useful if you will be outdoors for long periods of time.

4) If you are going to be celebrating Labor Day in an area with mosquitoes, then you might consider a good bug spray. I reach for DEET-free, water-resistant and non-flammable varieties.

5) Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated!

6) Consider using a hyaluronic serum before you leave the house to add, and retain, hydration to your skin.

7) If you are going somewhere like the beach or a park, and you will be in an area without shade, then it is worth investing in a portable beach umbrella– you will be glad that you did!

8) Have a wonderful time!

Saturday, September 5, 2026

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Holiday Weekend in Review

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog features a WYLYS Skincare routine– using all 5 of their amazing products– to achieve healthy and glowing skin.

Terri from Our Good Life says that fragrance can be the invisible accessory that transforms even the simplest outfit, adding personality, polish, and a sense of intention.

It’s the end of Summer and you might have some skirts that you haven’t worn yet despite how hot it has been in the past few months. Angie's from Your True Self Blog has style tips so that you can take full advantage of your special skirts now!

Nancy from Nancy's Fashion Style is an Autumn type, but she also wore the warmer, richer colours in summer with this two-piece skirt suit. Fall colours in summer really work well!

Friday, September 4, 2026

WYLYS Sage Verte Makeup Bag Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

The WYLYS Sage Verte Makeup Bag is an ultra-soft vegan leather makeup bag that has a remarkable amount of space for makeup and skincare, and yet it is small enough to stow in your purse (9.25” x 5” x 2”). The bag is pebbled vegan leather in a lovely shade of sage green, and it is punctuated by an elegant silver zipper and pull. It is perfect for travel, having whatever you need for a day or night out, and it is attractive enough that you could even use it as a clutch. It is beautiful, soft and supple and befitting of your favorite skincare and makeup picks.

According to WYLYS,

The perfect pouch for all of your skincare products, this sage green, pebbled vegan leather bag carries and creates a convenient way to bring along your skincare ritual while you travel. It doubles as makeup bag, cord carrier, or even as a sleek clutch if going out to dinner. Featuring a water repellent lining, secure metal zipper, and subtle debossed logo on the front.

After many samples fine-tuning texture, color, and shape, we love the functionality of this bag coupled with its sense of beautiful, understated luxury. Soft and pliable to fit into different travel totes, extra lining to maintain its structure. Naturally waterproof. The ultimate multipurpose piece.

Features:

Dimensions: 9.25” x 5” x 2”
Great for: Holding skincare, makeup, and other essentials
Material: Soft vegan leather with silver metal zipper and puller
Texture: Pebbled and soft

Cleaning Instructions: Give a delicate sweep with a dry cloth. Use a non-abrasive material such as microfiber soaked in water or with a gentle soap to wipe clean. Never wash in a washing machine.

Overall Assessment: This is a very nice vegan leather makeup bag, and it is already filled and living in my purse!

$35.00 from WYLYS, Bloomingdale's and eCosmetics (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Thursday, September 3, 2026

haruharu wonder Black Rice Facial Oil Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Haruharu wonder Black Rice Facial Oil is a very lightweight and fast-absorbing dry oil that has a delectable herbal aroma punctuated by lavender, and it melts into the skin without leaving an oily residue. I use a tiny amount apply it to warm slightly damp skin after I have washed it, and it immediately hydrates my skin and leaves it soft, smooth, supple and unmistakably luminous. It helps to form a protective barrier, locks in hydration, and it feels so wonderful and joyful to use. haruharu is a wonderful K-Beauty brand that is worthy of your consideration, and if you are a face oil enthusiast– like me– then this one is both affordable and effective.

According to haruharu,

haruharu wonder Black Rice Facial Oil is a lightweight, perfectly blended oil that's ideal for use year round, even during summer. This fast-absorbing oil is made with five natural plant-derived oils. The star ingredient is black rice bran oil, which makes up 45% of the formula. Black rice contains a high concentration of polyphenols and flavonoids, which protects skin against free radicals, including ultraviolet radiation and pollution, and encourages new skin cell growth.

Jojoba, sweet almond, sunflower seed and lavender oil further protect skin, promote elasticity and soothe irritations. Super versatile oil can be used on its own, or mixed with a cream, essence or foundation to achieve a radiant glow.

Directions: Apply a thin layer as the last step in your routine to lock in hydration. Lightly massage all over face in an upward circular motion, avoiding the immediate eye area.

Ingredients: Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Triolein, Heptyl Undecylenate, Glyceryl Dioleate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Camellia Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil/Macadamia Seed Oil Esters, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Tocopherol.

Overall Assessment: I am quite impressed by this face oil, and its efficacy and affordability make it a worthy contender, in my opinion. It is also cruelty-free, vegan and PETA Approved.

$32.00 for 1.0 oz. from haruharu, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, YesStyle, iHerb, StyleVana and StyleKorean (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.