Thursday, December 31, 2015

Empties Post Volume XXXIX: December 2015

Press Samples, Samples (Affiliate Links)
I definitely wanted to finish up a few of my near-empties before closing out 2015– there is just something inherently satisfying about tossing a bunch of empty containers into the recycle bin before ringing in the new year. I didn't finish up too many full size products, but I did use up lots of samples. 

Mary Kay Satin Hands Pomegranate Satin Smoothie Hand Scrub (Reviewed here): Not only does this scrub keep hands soft, smooth and supple, but it also works wonders on the feet as well! 

Ladyskin Aqua Exfoliator For Body (Reviewed here): This came is a MEMEBOX that I received last year, but I didn't really start using it regularly until a couple of months ago. It was so effective at removing dead skin cells immediately that it nearly boggles the mind. Dead skin pills up and rolls off- revealing soft skin.

Reviva Labs InterCell Hyaluronic Acid Night Gel (Reviewed here): This is another amazing product from Reviva Labs, and if you seek added hydration, then this Hyaluronic Acid Night Gel is an affordable and highly effective solution.

Shannon's Soaps Lavender Mint Balm (Reviewed here): This delightful balm is hardworking, highly effective, and it boasts a phenomenal sensory aromatherapeutic experience. The smell is delicious and calming, and the texture is unbelievably emollient and refined. It is also very concentrated, so only the smallest amount needs to be applied to the lips to produce astonishing results. I also tried the balm on my hands, cuticles, elbows, and heels to see how it performed, and as suspected it did a fantastic job of deeply moisturizing everything that it touched!

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex: This was a hand-me-down from my sister, and I can't figure out why she stopped using it. She was in the midst of a pre-move purge, and this was one of the many things that found its way into my possession. I found it to be a remarkably effective anti-aging eye cream that deeply hydrates the skin, dramatically reduces the appearance of dark circles, and leaves skin luminous.
LIFE NK Daily Fix Body Lotion is a super hydrating body lotion that is, "formulated with a vegetable base, the cream is also enriched with nourishing shea butter and glycerine for optimal hydration and a rich, luxurious consistency. It's the perfect daily treat for skin that is prone to dryness or sensitivity." I definitely liked it enough to buy a full size tube.

Clinique Deep Comfort Hand and Cuticle Cream is a really emollient and super moisturizing and non-greasy. I actually even used it on my feet, and found that it did a superb job softening and moisturizing my skin.

Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash is a really nice lathering cleanser that worked very well in conjunction with my FOREO LUNA and Clarisonic. It left my skin seriously clean with out stripping it.

Purlisse SPF 30 Pur-Protect Spf 30 Essential Daily Moisturizer is a nice moisturizer with a high enough SPF that I didn't feel the need to add an additional sunscreen. I didn't use it long enough to form a more in-depth opinion, but I can tell you that I want to try it again.

Purlisse Pur-Moist Hydra-Balance Moisturizer is a very nice moisturizer that made my skin feel so soft.

Origins Modern Friction Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion is gentle enough that I could use this on a daily basis for my normal to combination skin. I would definitely love a ill size tube when I finish up some of my exfoliators.

Korres Black Pine Firming, Lifting & Anti-Aging Night Cream is an impressive anti-aging night cream that is fast absorbing and ultra-moisturizing. There wasn't enough product in the tube to form a meaningful opinion, but I definitely want a full size jar at some point.

Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Moisturizer seems like a really nice moisturizer, but the tube didn't permit me to use it long enough to form a meaningful opinion.

ProfilePro Customized Haircare Jasmine Conditioner is an interesting haircare line that allows you to personalize the type of shampoo and conditioner that suits the needs of your hair. I really liked the way that their shampoo and conditioner felt and smelled, but I really have to use a shampoo for a longer period of time than samples permit to determine whether it is a good fit for my dry hair. 

Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash is an obsession-worthy hand wash that actually contains small exfoliating particles that do an excellent job removing dead skin cells. I need a bottle of this, and will definitely purchase one before too long.

Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser is a really lovely body wash that thoroughly cleanses the skin leaving it soft, supple and hydrated. The scent is a lovely earthy geranium that fills the shower with its beautiful aroma.

SAI-SEI Mineral Deep Moisture Body Cream (SAI-SEI has been discontinued at Space NK, but they are offering deep discounts!): I really wish this hadn't been discontinued because This was an absolutely amazing body cream that really is deeply moisturizing. 

L'Occitane Amande Shower Oil is a shower oil lovers dream. It thoroughly cleanses the skin, it smells delectable, and it leaves skin very soft, supple and hydrated.

RADICAL Skincare Multi-Brightening Serum was conceived to even skin tone, make skin more radiant, and to "to prevent and repair all pigmentation disorders." Furthermore, it leaves skin with a stunning pronounced luminosity. 

TATCHA RADIANT Deep Brightening Serum (featured here): This is a truly extraordinary brightening serum that leaves skin noticeably luminous and deeply moisturized. It utilizes, "time-tested Asian botanicals + HADASEI-3 Bioactive Complex for radiant looking skin." I have a few more sample bottles to use, but will definitely get a full size bottle when I'm done with them.

SAI-SEI Mineral Refresh Bath & Shower Gel  (SAI-SEI has been discontinued at Space NK, but they are offering deep discounts!): Once again, I am super sad that it is no longer being stocked at Space NK because I really would have loved a full size bottle.

Goldfaden MD Fleuressence Cell Oil: As previously noted, for me, it isn't often that a single sample size results in the strong desire to make the purchase. Generally speaking, I  need more time to determine if it will be a good fit for my skin, but I knew I wanted this gorgeous anti-aging beauty oil almost immediately. While I haven't yet made the purchase, I can tell you that it has a beautiful lightweight and fast absorbing consistency, and that it leaves skin very hydrated and luminous. There is definitely a full size bottle in my future.

The proprietary blend of 100% pure active botanicals, fruit extracts and natural oils delivers powerful vitamins and nutrients deep into the skin to boost moisture levels and skin cell revitalization. Rich in powerful Omega fatty acids and Vitamins A, C and E, the botanical actives work to diminish the appearance of fine lines, discoloration, inflammation and reduce pore size.

Added powerful oils—Kalahari Oil, Mongongo Oil and Baobab Oil—protect and shield the skin against environmental stresses, support the rejuvenation and renewing of skin cells, improve skin elasticity and promote accelerated skin-cell turnover. Skin is left glowing, hydrated and plump.


Tom Ford Café Rose Eau de Parfum is such a gorgeous scent that I just purchased a bottle and will review it before too long. 

Café rose descends into a hidden labyrinth, where rose’s fine breeding gives way to darker pleasures. Three precious rose essences dance with exotic spices and dark coffee. Incense resin, amber, and woods surround them with creamy depth. 

Notes: Turkish Rose Oil, Bulgarian Rose Absolute, Coffee Essence, Incense Resin, Sandalwood, Patchouli Oil. 
As is always the case with sample packets, I never really find that they provide enough product to form a meaningful opinion, but I definitely found products in this pile that re worth mentioning.

RéVive definitely makes fantastic luxury skincare, and their Glycolic Renewal Peel is a highly effective 2-step system. First you use their exfoliating pads, and after about a minute you apply the activation gel that you leave on for about 2 minutes. Once you rinse your face, you notice

Sisley Skincare makes exceptionally high quality skincare products, and the few that I own are among my most coveted skincare splurges. Small packets don't provide enough product to comment on individually, but Sisley skincare is definitely worth the splurge.

Marc Anthony Haircare Oil of Morocco Argan Oils Deep Hydrating Conditioning Treatment is a super affordable deep conditioner that left my dry hair super nourished, soft, frizz-free and manageable. I will definitely purchase a tube when I need more conditioner.

Kate Somerville Eczema Therapy Cream and Kate Somerville Age Arrest Anti-Wrinkle Cream are really emollient and super hydrating creams that made my skin feel deeply moisturized and silky soft. I would love to try a full size jar of one of her moisturizers,

Every Beauty Makeup Remover Pads with Argan Oil Extract (This came in my February 2014 BB5 box reviewed here): These makeup remover pads were absolutely fantastic. You simply add a little water to activate the pads and then it removes every trace of makeup, and it leaves the skin remarkably soft and smooth! I need to purchase a full size pack for my travel bag!

Zelens is a line that I have been wanting to pay a bit more attention to. It is a luxury brand with a wide variety of products that really appeal to me– not the least of which is their face oil. I have piles of Zelens samples, and I definitely want to try a few of their full size products.

What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in December? Any real surprises? Anything that you will repurchase? Any grew finds you want to recommend?

Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.


ARCONA Eye Dew Plus | Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

ARCONA Eye Dew Plus is a fantastic new anti-aging corrective eye treatment that uses cutting-edge technology to deeply nourish and hydrate the delicate skin under the eyes and on the lips while smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and improving the over all texture of the skin. Furthermore, it brightens the skin giving it pronounced luminosity and a dewy finish.

The gorgeous multicolored liquid crystals melt into the skin, but they do not impart any color– instead, they create luminosity. The trick to using ARCONA Eye Dew Plus is to pump out a teeny-tiny amount, then warm it between your fingers and then gently pat into the skin. When done this way, it sinks into the skin and leaves skin soft, supple and hydrated all day long. Any excess left on your fingers can be used on the lips, and the difference in hydration is immediately noticeable.

According to ARCONA,

Ultra corrective anti-aging formula offers intensified concentrations of cutting-edge actives Dermaxyl® and Cavamax®, to reverse visible signs of aging. Smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and improves elasticity with Liquid Crystals. Helps diminish visible signs of aging with Vitamin C, leaving eye area firm, regenerated and younger looking.

Claims:
  • Plump fine lines and wrinkles with liquid crystals.
  • Brighten and defend against damage with Vitamin C.
  • Improve the texture of age-damaged skin with Cavamax®.
  • Repair and stimulate skin with Dermaxyl®.
Use Daily AM and PM: Ultra concentrated formula. Dispense half a pump and warm between fingers, then gently pat around the eye area. Equally effective for hydrating lips.

Directions: Use daily, morning and night. Dispense half a pump of the formula onto your hands and warm between your fingers. Gently pat around the eye area. It's also equally effective for hydrating lips.

Ingredients: Cholesteryl Oleyl Carbonate, Cholesteryl Nonanoate, Cholesteryl Stearate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (Dermaxyl®), Ceramide NG, Retinol (Cavamax®), Oryza Sativa, (Rice) Bran Oil, Zea Mays (Corn) Silk Extract, Phenyl t-Butylnitrone (Spin Trap), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Cinnamomum Camphora, (Camphor) Bark Oil, Tribehenin, PEG-10 Rapeseed Sterol, Polysorbate 20.
Overall Assessment: Another brilliant creation from ARCONA. If you need deep and long-lasting hydration, then ARCONA Eye Dew Plus is an absolute must-try. A+

$95.00 for 0.4 oz. from ARCONA and Nordstrom (Affiliate Links).
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Hair Conditioners for the Cold Weather | Hair La Vie Revive Deep Hydration Masque & White Sands Leave-In Conditioner

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

The onset of the cold weather always wreaks havoc on my hair causing it to become dry, and in great need of added moisture. If you find yourself in the same situation– then I have two conditioners to share with you. One is a deep conditioning mask, and the other a leave-in conditioner spray, and both have been working wonders on my dry hair.
Hair La Vie Revive Deep Hydration Masque ($35.00 for 8 oz. from www.hairlavie.com) is a deep conditioner for the hair and scalp that effectively treats dry and damaged hair. While my hair is not damaged, is has a natural tendency to be dry, and therefore I am reliant upon effect conditioners to keep my hair looking and feeling great.

Hair La Vie's  Revive Deep Hydration Masque is an all-natural moisturizing and strengthening treatment that is infused with 11 vitamins, nutrients and essential oils that deep condition, deep clean and hydrate the hair and scalp.

I simply apply the mask to clean, damp hair and leave it on for about 30 minutes. I then hop in the shower and wash and condition my hair as I normally would and then rinse it with cool water. My hair is left shiny, frizz-free, manageable and very hydrated.

According to Hair La Vie,

The masque uses keratin and bamboo extract to rebuild the structure of hair, making it more resilient and less prone to damage. Bamboo extract further strengthens the shaft, making it thicker, stronger and less likely to break. Horsetail extract (rich in silica) is known to accelerate hair growth, while adding a brilliant luster and preventing split ends. Formulated specifically for those with weak, damaged, brittle locks, Revive is also free of parabens, phthalates, dyes, and alcohol. The result is a moisture rich deep conditioning treatment to reinvigorate tired tresses from roots to ends.

Directions: For best results, keep the masque on clean, damp hair for 20-30 minutes. Re-wash hair with regular shampoo and conditioner. Rinse with cool water.  Great for frizz control on dry or damp hair.
White Sands Hair Care Spray Leave In Conditioner (1oz Travel Size, $5.00. 8.5oz Full Size, $15.00 from www.whitesandsproducts.com): is formulated to revitalize and restore moisture for normal to dry hair without weighing it down or causing a product buildup. It detangles, smooths frizz and leaves hair shiny and conditioned. The formula includes a "unique combination of green tea leaf and orchid flower extracts" that are powerful anti-aging antioxidant-rich ingredients that fight free radicals– offering greater environmental protection to your tresses.

White Sands Leave In Conditioner offers, "innovative moisturizing benefits for the modern stylist and client. Made with special polymers, its smart ingredients will provide 'Selective Conditioning' to nourish & smooth areas of the cuticle that need repair the most. This targeted delivery creates an intelligent product that knows exactly where damage hides; giving the weakest parts more TLC. Hair will have the ability to hold moisture and control frizz….White Sands Spray Leave In Conditioner further strengthens the hair with silk proteins. These amino acids thoroughly penetrate into the damaged layers of the cuticle to mend and protect. ProVitamin B5 continues the leave in’s moisturizing properties, imparting added sheen."

Directions: Apply on clean damp hair then brush in for even distribution and to detangle. Add your favorite White Sands styling aids. Style and blow dry as usual. It can also be used on dry hair for flyaways.
Overall Assessment: I am very happy with the results, and if you have dry hair these are well worth your consideration.

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Unaffiliated Links).
Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Younique Moodstruck Addiction Shadow Palette 1 | Review & Swatches

 Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

One of the great pleasures associated with beauty blogging is being introduced to products that you might otherwise not have tried. Recently I was introduced to a few products from Younique, and am pleased to report that I have been very impressed by the quality of their products.

About Younique:

Nature + Love + Science. Since its inception in 2012, Younique has been committed to developing beauty products that combine innovative science with the best ingredients nature has to offer. Younique, famous for its best-selling Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes+, is the first direct selling company to pioneer the social media-based business model. Founded by a brother- sister team – Derek Maxfield and Melanie Huscroft – Younique offers women the opportunity to look and feel great while helping advance the brand’s mission of uplifting, empowering and validating women around the world.
I love neutral eyeshadow palettes, and always have room for more high quality neutrals that are finely milled and beautifully pigmented. Younique Moodstruck Addiction Shadow Palette 1 is a gorgeous palette of seven infinitely wearable neutrals that are as stunning on the skin as they are in the palette. Each of the shades is ultra-finely milled, and they effortlessly glide across the skin and deposit color evenly and flawlessly. They blend and buff with great ease, and the colors themselves are utterly gorgeous. These shadows are crease-resistant, fade-resistant, long-wearing and are the colors are buildable.
According to Younique,

You’ll be addicted to each of the three available palette options, with each boasting seven expertly coordinated shades with ultra-smooth matte, pearl and high shimmer finishes! State-of-the-art matte finishes provide blendable and buildable payoff with a creamy smooth texture that’s perfect for shading. The velvety pearls’ intense colors have a versatile finish that can be applied dry for a highlight or shading or wet to outline or contour the eye. For long-lasting wear, blend with the brand’s property Refreshed Rose Water for long-lasting wear! Metallic shimmer finishes marry the color purity of a cream with the shading and layering qualities of a solid eyeshadow for color that applies like a powder and melts into a metallic luster.
  Left to Right: Elated, Sincere, Brassy, Chipper, Swanky, Forthright and Zealous.

Elated is a Matte Nude
Sincere is a Metallic Beige
Brassy is a Shimmer Golden Copper
Chipper is a Matte Milk Chocolate
Swanky is a Shimmery Antique Gold
Forthright is a Matte Dark Chocolate 
Zealous is a Metallic Brown Shadow

N.B.: Elated is barely visible in my swatches at the far left because it is a close match to my skin tone, and for me it works best as a base shade. Swanky is described as a Shimmery Antique Gold, but I consider it more of a gorgeous golden taupe.

Palette 1 Ingredients:

Brassy & Swanky Ingredients: Dimethincone, Talc, Mica, Zinc Stearate, Diisostearyl Malate, Hydrogenated Polysisobutene, Aluminum Hydroxide, Silica, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Hexlene Glycol, Lauroyl Lysine, Tin Oxide. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide/Ci 77891, Iron Oxides/Ci 77491, Iron Oxides/ Ci 77492, Iron Oxides/Ci 77499, Aluminum Powder/ Ci 77000, Red 7 Lake/Ci 15850, Bronze Powder/Ci 77400.

Sincere & Zealous Ingredients: Talc, Mica, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Dimethicone, Zinc Stearate, Polybutene, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Tin Oxide, Tocopherol, Lecithin, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Oleate, Citric Acid. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide/Ci 77891, Iron Oxides/Ci 77491, Iron Oxides/ Ci 77492, Iron Oxides/Ci 77499, Carmine/Ci 75470, Bismuth Oxychloride/Ci 77163.

Elated, Chipper and Forthright Ingredients: Talc, Mica, Dimethiconol Stearate, Dimethicone, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Lauroyl Lysine, Aluminum Hydroxide. May Contain: Iron Oxides/Ci 77491, Iron Oxides/ Ci 77492, Iron Oxides/Ci 77499, Manganese Violet/Ci 77742, Red 7 Lake/Ci 15850.

Younique Moodstruck Addiction Shadow Palettes are: Gluten Free, Soy Free, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free, Latex Free, Sulfate Free, Paba Free, Bpa Free, Nano Ingredients and Mineral Oil Free.Vegan Friendly and Cruelty Free.
Overall Assessment: A very nice neutral palette, indeed!

$49.00 from Younique (Unaffiliated Links).
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

VENeffect Firming Neck & Décolleté Creme | Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

As you may remember from my VENeffect Anti-Aging Lip Treatment and VENeffect Anti-Aging Intensive Moisturizer reviews, I am completely in awe of VENeffect products. Their ultra high quality luxury skincare products are antioxidant-rich anti-aging power-brokers that make a visible difference in the condition of the skin. It was created by two sisters, Rebecca and Cecil Booth, who wanted to created effective anti-aging products that delivered on their claims, and that counteracted the effects that hormonal fluctuations and changes have on the skin.
About the Founders,

VENeffect was founded by sisters Rebecca Booth, M.D., a nationally recognized gynecologist and hormonal wellness expert, and Cecil Booth, a skin care expert with twenty years of beauty industry experience. They discovered that while all women are affected by hormonal aging, there is little awareness of this universal issue and few solutions in the beauty world. VENeffect is the breakthrough anti-aging solution they developed to reverse the signs of hormonal aging and restore skin to peak hormonal vitality.

Many influences affect the aging of skin, including sun damage, hereditary factors, and simple chronological aging. For women, one of the least discussed, but most compelling ways we age are the shifts and changes in hormones throughout the month and as we age. In particular, the decline of the feminizing hormone estrogen leads to a number of challenges, including for our skin. As the influence of estrogen declines from its peak in our twenties, our skin loses elasticity resulting in fine lines, wrinkles and loss of skin tone. VENeffect was created by two sisters, one a gynecologist and hormonal wellness specialist, and the other a beauty industry expert, with the goal to help reverse lost elasticity directly related to the decline in estrogen as we age. Their discovery is an exclusive and highly effective complex of 100% natural plant-based phytoestrogens to safely and effectively reverse the signs of aging that are directly the result of decreasing estrogen; to preserve and restore the youthful glow of healthy, vibrant skin.

Who can use VENeffect: "Women of all ages and all skin types. Collagen peaks along with estrogen in our twenties and begins a decline that accelerates in our thirties, forties and fifties, at which point our fertility function as women is programmed to retire. VENeffect has the ability to both preserve and restore collagen and will enhance the skin of women at any age."

How it Works: "As we age, the influence of estrogen declines resulting in loss of collagen and elasticity in our skin and increasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles."

Claims: "VENeffect is the only anti-aging skin care line formulated with a unique and powerful blend of 100% natural phytoestrogens to enhance collagen and improve elasticity in skin. The small molecular size of phytoestrogens allows them to easily penetrate the skin and bond with estrogen receptors present in both the dermis and the epidermis in order to stimulate collagen production."

The Result: "VENeffect reverses the signs of aging to preserve and restore the healthy glow of skin at peak vitality."

VENeffect created a proprietary formula, which is a blend of 100% natural plant-based phytoestrogens, that help reverse the effects that hormonal aging has on the skin. As we age, our estrogen levels decline, and lower levels of estrogen results in skin becoming less taut and toned than it was in our youth, and sadly this decline begins in our twenties!

In addition to being highly effective, VENeffect products have the distinction of luxurious textures that make their use a very pleasurable tactile experience. My latest VENeffect obsession is their Firming Neck & Décolleté Creme, and if ever there was a luxurious neck cream, this is it!
VENeffect Firming Neck & Décolleté Creme is a rich and emollient, yet fast absorbing, luxurious cream that was specifically formulated to address the needs of the delicate skin of the neck and décolleté. It has a silky-smooth ultra luxurious texture that is rich enough to impart high levels of moisture, but it leaves behind no greasy residue. It is fragrance-free– therefore those among you with fragrance sensitivities can experience all of the benefits from this cream without being inundated by unwanted fragrance, and it also will not interfere with fragrances that perfume-wearers put on and around the neck and décolleté.
Given that the neck and décolleté often do not receive the same level of pampering and protection that the face enjoys, this already delicate and vulnerable skin has a tendency to be among the first areas to show signs of aging. When used daily, VENeffect Firming Neck & Décolleté Creme visibly improves the texture of the skin by plumping and reducing fine lines and wrinkles and lifting the skin. Skin appears visibly more taut and firm without any discomfort. Furthermore, it leaves skin hydrated, soft, supple, more even in tone, and with a pronounced luminosity.
According to VENeffect,

This ultra firming, luxurious moisturizing formula with advanced phytoestrogen technology targets the delicate and vulnerable skin of the neck and décolletage, often one of the first areas to show the signs of aging. Free of fragrance, this highly effective treatment moisturizer will not interfere with other scents or perfumes. Used daily, it reduces the appearance of lines and deep wrinkles and dramatically enhances elasticity for younger, brighter, skin. Skin will be firmer, with a luminous, even tone.

Apply to neck and chest area with an upward sweeping motion morning and evening after cleansing. For optimum results layer over VENeffect Firming Phyto-Lift Serum.
Claims:
  • Diminishes and helps prevent the appearance of deep wrinkles
  • Firms and smooths the delicate skin of the neck and chest area
  • Increases elasticity
  • Brightens and evens skin tone
  • Inspires collagen resulting in a youthful glow
Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Eau), Isoeicosane, Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Resveratrol, Beeswax, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover) Flower Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Soy Isoflavones, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dextran, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Mannitol, Behenyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Squalane, Polysorbate 60, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Biotin.

VENeffect Firming Neck & Décolleté Creme is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance free, gluten free, and paraben free. Made in the USA.
Overall Assessment: Exceptional quality and real results from a phenomenal antioxidant-rich anti-aging line that needs to be on your radar for 2016.

$155.00 for 2 oz. from VENeffect, Space NK, Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus and Dermstore (Affiliate Links).

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Schwarzkopf Styling Titans for New Year's Eve Tresses

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If you are seeking high quality hair and affordable styling products for your New Year's Eve festivities, then here is a great list of Schwarzkopf products that will keep your hair in tip-top shape long after the ball drops at midnight. If you find yourself roaming around the drugstore aisles in search of a few hair styling products, then be sure to check these out.
1) Schwarzkopf Styliste Ultime Biotin+ Volume & Texture H20-Free Hair Spray ($6.97 for 10 oz from Walmart): This volumizing hair spray effectively controls frizz, offers excellent hold, but eaves hair soft and touchable.

Infuse your hair with life with the Schwarzkopf Hair Spray. Its water-less formula has a biotin plus volume complex that provides soft, touchable hair for up to 24-hours. The 10-oz biotin hair spray is quick setting, so you can use it fast and be on your way every morning.

Schwarzkopf Styliste Ultime Biotin+ Volume and Texture H20-Free Hair Spray:
Especially developed for fine, limp hair
  • Water-less formula with biotin+ volume complex provides even distribution for soft-touchable 24-hour hold
  • Quick set styling and weightless hold
  • Combats hair issues such uncontrollable frizz and fly aways
  • Light-weight formula leaves hair manageable and brush out is effortless
  • For strong hold; With micro-fix-technology
  • H20 free hair styling spray was developed with Claudia Schiffer
2) Schwarzkopf Styliste Ultime Crystal Shine & Hold Laminating Shine Hair Spray ($6.97 for 10 oz. from Walmart): If you need extra-strong hold that lasts all day, and that gives hair lots of shine without leaving it limp, then this is a great choice.

Schwarzkopf Styliste Ultime Crystal Shine & Hold Laminating Shine Hair Spray:
  • Especially developed for extra-strong hold
  • Instantly gives your hair glamorous body and luminous shine without weighing it down
  • Dries instantly for touchably soft hair without flaking or stickiness
  • For lasting volume and all-day hold
  • Create a perfect finish with this workable hairspray
  • Get sexy voluminous locks that last as long as you can
  • With micro-fix technology; developed with Claudia Schiffer; instant mirror shine with liquidized crystals
3) Schwarzkopf Styliste Ultime Crystal Shine & Hold Heat Protection Shine Spray ($6.97 for 6.8 fl oz. from Walmart): If you need heat protection, and want brilliant shine, then this heat protection spray is perfect for daily use.

Add some luster to your hair with the Schwarzkopf Styliste Ultime Crystal Shine and Hold Heat Protection Hair Spray. It gives you an instant brilliant shine that stands out. It also gives smooth, touchable hair that you can be confident in all day long. Available in a 6.8 fl oz bottle with an easy-to-use sprayer, the Schwarzkopf hair spray seals your cuticles for precisely styled, sleek hair. Enjoy a fast and flexible hold all day with this spray.

Schwarzkopf Styliste Ultime Crystal Shine and Hold Heat Protection Shine Spray:
  • Instantly adds brilliant shine for smooth, touchable hair
  • Seals the cuticle for beautifully styled sleek hair
  • 450-degree heat protection formula for daily defense against hot tool damage
  • Micro-fix technology for fast, flexible hold
  • Hair shine spray was developed with Claudia Schiffer
4) Schwarzkopf essence ULTIME Diamond Color & Radiance Shine Boost Tonic 
($6.97 for 3.4 oz from Walmart): This was specifically formulated to protect colored hair while giving it a radiant shine. It contains special UV filters to protect your hair against fading.

Schwarzkopf essence ULTIME Diamond Color & Radiance Shine Boost Tonic:
  • Especially developed for colored, highlighted hair
  • Special UV filters provide protection from the sun, allowing color-treated hair to hold its luster longer
  • Radiant shine without an oily, weighed-down look
  • Provides dazzling color luminosity and protection
  • Formulated with diamond gloss serum for intense shine
5) got2b kinkier gloss ‘n define curling mousse ($5.99 for 8 oz. from Walmart, Walgreens and mass retailers nationwide): If you have curly hair, then this is a great curl enhancing mousse. It creates the perfectly formed ringlets without weighing hair down.

Double-curling power with glossifying nectar oil and curl boosting mineral salt. This luxe, salon-inspired formula defines curls with long-lasting yet weightless hold for irresistibly touchable, curvaceous styles.

Ingredients: Water , Isobutane , Polyquaternium 46 , Propane , VP/VA Copolymer , Cocotrimonium Methosulfate , PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil , Laureth 4 , Panthenol , PEG 8 Methicone , Benzophenone 4 , Phenoxyethanol , Methylparaben , Butylparaben , Ethylparaben , Isobutylparaben , Propylparaben , Fragrance (Parfum) , Limonene , Hydroxyisohexyl 3 Cyclohexen Carboxaldehyde , Hydroxycitronellal.

6) got2b glossy anti-frizz shine serum ($5.99 for 4.2 oz. from Walmart and Walgreens): Not only does this fight frizz and leave hair with a gorgeous shine, but it also detangles my curly hair.

Add brilliant shine and beat the frizz. Loaded with conditioning agents and alcohol free, the serum will control flyaways and give hair a luxurious shine.  Perfect for color treated hair, it is also formulated with UV absorbers.  Glossy is sure to give normal, dry, coarse, or even chemically treated hair a high gloss, super sheen.
7) Smooth 'N Shine Polishing Silk Style Foaming Wrap Lotion ($6.46 for 8.5 oz. from Walmart): This foaming lotion offers firm hold, fantastic shine and body, and it also gives hair heat protection.

Smooth 'N Shine Polishing Silk Style Foaming Wrap Lotion is a quick drying formula enriched with silk and wheat proteins that provide added protection while using heat styling tools. Leaves hair with a smooth finish, and manageable, lasting hold. Hair looks healthy and shiny with style that lasts and lasts.

Smooth 'N Shine Polishing Silk Style Foaming Wrap Lotion:
  • Extra firm hold
  • Body, shine and movement
  • Silk and wheat proteins
  • Heat protect
Directions: shampoo And condition hair. Rinse hair thoroughly And towel dry. Comb hair with wide tooth comb to detangle. Wrapping: apply ample amount of foam into palm of hand And apply to hair, comb through. Begin with an off-center part, comb hair forward And around the head in a circular motion until hair is smooth And around head, if desired use a setting net to ensure a smooth wrap. Dry hair under a warm dryer. When hair is dry, comb hair gently in to desired style. Finish with smooth n shine spray-on polisher. Blow-drying: apply lesser amount of foam to hair And comb through. Dry hair slowly while gently stretching hair with comb as it dries.

8) Smooth ‘N Shine Hair Polisher ($4.99 for 4 oz. WalmartTarget, CVS & Walgreens): This serum leaves hair soft, shiny and frizz and fly-away free.

An advanced polishing formula that instantly creates intense shine while it detangles and smoothes frizzies, split-ends and fly-aways.  It also conditions damaged hair to help prevent future breakage.

Ingredients: Cyclomethicone , Dimethicone , Dimethiconol , Phenyltrimethicone, Panthenol, Silk Amino Acid , Fragrance (Parfum).

9) Smooth ‘N Shine Olive & Tea Tree RevivOil Extra Hold Conditioning Gel ($2.99 for Walmart, Family Dollar, Target, CVS & Beauty Supply Stores): This is an extra-hold styling gel that leaves hair soft and shiny without ever letting it get crunchy or flaky.

A non-hardening styling gel that revives dry hair with the holding benefits of a gel. It is formulated with a blend of Olive and Tea Tree Oils that nourish and transform hair.

At last, a conditioning gel that holds up to its name! Smooth 'n Shine Polishing Extra Hold Conditioning Gel is an non-hardening styling gel that revives dry hair with the holding benefits of a gel and the conditioning it needs for superb softness and shine. It's formulated with a perfectly balanced blend of olive and tea tree oils that nourish and transform hair on a microscopic level so hair doesn't feel weighed down! Directions: Apply a small amount the palms of your hands, work through damp or dry hair And style as desired.


Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Pvp, Carbomer, Oleth-20, Phenoxyethanol, Peg-10 Olive Glycerides, Animomethyl Propanol, Methylparaben, Ppg-5-Cetheth-20, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Disodium Edta, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Methylisothiazolinone, Yellow 10, Green 3.

Overall Assessment: Schwarzkopf makes hardworking hair styling products that give you salon results at drugstore prices. 

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Colbert MD Exclusive Savings on Holiday Gift Sets

Press Release (Unaffiliated Links)

The Triad Collection ($360/$445 value) - Replicate the effects of Dr. Colbert’s signature Triad Facial day and night at-home. Products Included: Nutrify & Protect Day (Reviewed Here), Soothe Night (Reviewed Here) and Stimulate The Serum (Reviewed Here).
Cleanse & Glow Collection ($160/$195 value) Rediscover radiance by nourishing and balancing the complexion. Products Included: Balance Purifying Cleanser and illumino Face Oil (Reviewed Here).
The Serums Collection ($240/$290 value) - Energize the skin and refine texture to reveal a youthful suppleness. Products Included: Stimulate The Serum (Reviewed Here) and Uplift Eye Serum.

New York Dermatology Group Holiday Promotion: Additionally, if you are located in the greater New York City area, New York Dermatology Group is offering 20% off the signature Triad Facial, Botox and Filler treatments through December 31st! Details attached include the number to call and the promotion code. To learn more about New York Dermatology Group, click here: https://www.nydermatologygroup.com

Follow Colbert MD on Social:
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Twitter: @ColbertMD

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in Champagne | Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

If you love Burt's Bees Lip Balms like I do, then prepare to be completely obsessed by their Lip Shimmers! I don't know how it is that I am only just now trying these twinkling gems, but I plan on collecting more of their shimmering shades!

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in Champagne is a delightfully luminous pale pink shimmer that leaves lips unbelievably hydrated and nourished, and with the perfect amount of twinkle. The peppermint flavor is refreshing and invigorating, and it gives lips the perfect pain-free tingle. I deliberately took my swatch with a soft focus in order for you to see the extent to which this shimmering balm captures the light.

Prepare your lips for your New Year’s Eve kiss with this lip savor. From the peppermint flavor to keep your breath fresh, the sunflower oil for nourishing benefits, and the glitter to spark the New Year’s Eve theme, this little gem is the ultimate necessity.

Want your lips to speak volumes? Give them a smooch of luminescent color with our luscious Lip Shimmers. Shea Butter and antioxidant-rich Fruit Oils moisturize, nourish and soften lips naturally and lovingly.

• Nourishes and moisturizes lips with Vitamin E and Beeswax
• Enriched with Sunflower Oils
• Invigorates with Peppermint flavor
• Comes in 14 shimmering shades
Ingredients: Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Beeswax, Euphorbia Cerifera Wax, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Lanolin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Copernicia Cerifera Wax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Fragaria Ananassa (Strawberry) Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Apricot) Kernel Oil, Ribes Nigrum Black Currant) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Sambucus Nigra (Elderberry) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Canola Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil. +/-: Mica, Iron Oxides, Carmine, Alumina, Titanium Dioxide.
Overall Assessment: I am definitely picking up several more shades!

$5.00 for 0.09 oz. from Burt's Bees, Amazon, Drugstore.com, Target, CVS and John Lewis (£5.99) (Affiliate Links).

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.
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