Memorial Day Remembrance

Memorial Day, while originally intended to honor the fallen Union Soldiers from the American Civil War, became more notably a day to commemorate all fallen soldiers serving in the United States Armed Services. We honor those we have lost, have barbecues to commemorate them, and generally take pause to reflect upon what their collective sacrifice means to all of us.

More recently still, this holiday has come to symbolize a day where we embark on more personal expressions of memory about those departed loved ones who we dearly miss. For over a year, however, we have faced the Coronavirus global pandemic together, and it is hard to articulate the extent to which it continues to devastate the world. Today I reflect upon all of these souls who have lost, and continue to lose, their lives to this devastating disease. I give profound thanks to the doctors and nurses who bravely care for those infected, and all of the essential workers who, often through great personal sacrifice, work to keep us safe.

Memorial Day Sales

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Aéropostale: 50-70% Off Sale site wide.

Amazon: Check the Today's Deals section for amazing savings.

Ann Taylor: 40% Off your purchase.

Ann Taylor Loft: Extra 60% Off ALL SALE STYLES! 40%-50% Off OFF Full-Price Styles.

Anthropologie: Extra 40% Off Sale.

ASOS: Shop more, save more sale.

Bandier: Extra 30% Off All Sale Styles.

Bed, Bath & Beyond: Up to 40% Off Memorial Day Sale!

Bergdorf Goodman: The Designer Sale Up to 40% Off.

Bloomingdale's: Save up to 60-70% Off Sale items.

Charlottle Tilbury Beauty: 20% Off Beauty Kits.

Clarins: Memorial Day Sale Up to 30% Off.

Coach: Up to 50% Off Sale.

Cole Haan: Memorial Day Up to 50% Off Sale. Extra 20% Off Use Code: MDW20.

Crate & Barrel: Up to 60% Off Clearance Event.

Cult Beauty: 15-20% Off Sale. Here is a full list of the brands that they stock.

Derma-E: Memorial Day Sale 25% off ENTIRE WEBSITE. Use Code: MEMORIAL. Free Shipping on all orders of $35.00 in the Continental US.

Dermstore: Summer Sale. Save up to 20% Off your favorite beauty essentials. Use Code: SALEAWAY at checkout.

Erno Laszlo: Save 30% on select collections. Spend $150 to Receive Sea Mud Cleansing Bar & Detox Cleansing Oil | USE CODE: MINIDUO

Etsy: Check their Sale section.

Finish Line: 30% Off select styles.

FOREO: Flash Sale, up to 50% off, until discounted supply lasts! 

Frye: Up to 40% off Memorial Day Sale.

Gilt: Exclusive deals and specials.

H&M: Lots of online sales.

Kate Spade: Take 30% Off when you spend $250.00+(Exclusions Apply). Use Code: VACAY.

Kate Somerville: Our Gift To You: Kate's Age Repair Minis ($99 value) with any $150 purchase. Use code: MAYGWP at checkout.Free Exfoliate full size cleanser with your $80.00 purchase. Use Code: EXFMAY21.

Kérastase: Spend more to get more + free shipping.

Kiehl's: See Today's Skincare Offers section.

Kneipp: Check their amazing 20% Off sale section.

Lancôme: Enjoy 25% Off Friends & Family Event. No code needed.

Lands' End: Receive up to 50% off all orders. Use Code: HONOR.

L'Occitane: Receive a 4-piece soap set ($29.00 value) with any $65 purchase. Use Code: UNWIND

Macy's: Huge Memorial Day Sales sitewide. 20-60% Off.

Marc Jacobs Beauty: Take 50% Off everything!

MICHAEL KORS: Memorial Day Sale Up to 60% Off.

Molton Brown: Enjoy a complimentary Body & Hair Travel Gift Set (worth $70) when you spend $130.

NARS: Receive 30% Off their Last Chance products.

NINE WEST: Memorial Day Sale 50% Off select sandals. Extra 40% Off everything else.. Free Shipping on $69.00+..

Nordstrom: Half Yearly Sale. Up to 50% Off: Beauty Sales, Women's Sale, Men's Sale, and More!

Nordstrom Rack: Extra 25% Off Clearance. Total Savings up to 75%.

Paula's Choice: 15% Off Sitewide.

Pottery Barn: Up to 50% Off Sale.

Ralph Lauren: Up to 40% Off Sale.

REN: $10 Off $60. Use Code: CLEAN10. $15.00 Off $75.00 Use Code: CLEAN15. $25.00 Off $100.00 Use Code: CLEAN25.

REVOLVE: Up to 50% Off Sale (No code necessary).

Saks Fifth Avenue: Up to 80% Off Fashion Flash Sale.

Sephora: Lots of amazing Sale items– check them out here: Sale Items. Up to 50% Off. Spend $50.00 and receive 500 points (That's good for $10.00 your not purchase. for Beauty Insiders). Use Code: FREESHIP for free shipping.

Serena & Lily: Everything is 20% off with Code: DIVEIN.

Shopbop: Take up to 50% Off Sale Designer Sale.

Shu Uemura: Friends & Family Sale is on!

SkinStore: Memorial Day Sales Shop up to 60% Off.

Space NK: Enjoy $30.00 Off every $130.00 spent!

Sur La Table: Sales Galore! Up to 50% OFF Clearance!

Target: HUGE Memorial Day Sale.

The Container Store: Huge Sale Section.

Ulta: Lots of AMAZING Sales, Specials and Coupons.

Urban Outfitters: 50% Off hundreds of styles.

Walgreens: 15% Off Memorial Day deals to list! Use Code: HERO

Walmart: Lots of Memorial Day Specials!

West Elm: Memorial Day Sale Up to 75% OFF.

Williams Sonoma: Memorial Day Sale up to 50% Off.

World Market: HUGE Clearance Sale. Also receive 25% Off Select Outdoor.

YSL: EXCLUSIVE MEMORIAL DAY OFFER: Kick off the season of fun with 2 complimentary Rock’N Shine lipsticks with any makeup or skincare purchase. USE CODE: MDW21.

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The Beauty Spotlight Team Memorial Day Weekend Roundup

Memorial Weekend is the unofficial kick-off to summer, and that means more time outdoors. Never Say Die Beauty recommends mineral sunscreen ThinkSport SPF 50 to keep your and your families’ skin safe from the sun’s rays. 

Angie at Your True Self Blog has posted about this season’s plaid trend, and gives  three style tips, and that’s followed by outfit combinations to show how to wear plaid for spring and summer. Click here to get inspired with new outfit ideas! 

The Westman Atelier Blender Brush is a game-changing ultra-luxurious handmade and cruelty-free brush. It is a multipurpose brush that does so much more than blend. Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog can’t believe the extent to which it applies and blends powder, cream and liquid products and effortlessly creates a seamless finish. It’s an extraordinary luxe splurge, but it is definitely covet-worthy.

Marcia at Prime Beauty has been using Trust Biologic CBD Facial Serum. In reading up about it she learned about the entourage effect. Don’t you want to learn about it too? 

Empties Galore for May 2021

Purchased and Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

May came and went so fast that I can hardly grasp the speed with which it flew by. I have continued to use up opened products before they go bad, and I have tried to reduce the overall number of products that I use at any given time. I am trying to be more mindful, less wasteful and more sustainable in my practices. I have also found that one of the small pleasures is using things that I really enjoy, and therefore the in the last few months you have probably noticed the large number of luxury products in my empties posts. 

African Botanics Pure Marula Cleansing Oil ($60.00 for 3.4 oz. from African Botanics, Net-A-Porter, Revolve and Credo Beauty): This lightweight oil is an antioxidant and omega-rich oil that was formulated to gently cleanse and purify even the most sensitive skin types while removing makeup, dead skin cells as well as pollution and other impurities. It is so gentle and effective that it neither dehydrates the skin, nor causes irritation. It is suitable for combination, sensitive and dry skin types. Repurchase? I definitely will once I finish up a few more of my open bottles of cleansing oil!

Erno Laszlo Sea Mud Deep Cleansing Bar ($40.00 for 3.4 oz. from Erno Laszlo, Nordstrom, Sephora, Violet Grey, Saks Fifth Avenue, Revolve, Amazon, b-glowing and Look Fantastic): Sea Mud Deep Cleansing Bar does an exceptional job cleaning and exfoliating my skin, and it does so without drying, stripping or irritating. Skin is left soft, clear and luminous, and while it is now said to be formulated for all skin types, it used to be for normal, combination and oily skin types. I would say that dryer skin types would only use it periodically for its deep cleaning and exfoliating abilities, but not as a daily soap. I do like to use it with a cleansing oil, but sometimes I use it alone. My one grievance is that the bar used to be a hefty 6 oz., which was far more satisfying to use, and now it is nearly half the size. Repurchase? I already have!

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Body Wash ($30.00 for 6.8 oz. from REN, Sephora, Space NK and Bloomingdale's): This is a soothing and delicately fragrances body wash that not only smells utterly delicious, but it also hydrates, soothes and thoroughly cleanses the skin. It is perfect in the shower or bath, and it is emollient enough to use for shaving your legs! Repurchase? I am just about to open another bottle! I LOVE this so much!

Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel ($16.99 for 16.9 oz. from Mustela, Target, CVS and Amazon): is an ultra-gentle cleansing gel that forms a very satisfying lather. It thoroughly and gently cleans without stripping or drying the skin. It leaves skin soft and hydrated, and can be used as a shampoo and body cleanser. It has a very pleasant, warm and creamy aroma, but it isn't powerful or long-lasting. It is currently my favorite body cleanser, and it emollient enough that I can use it for shaving my legs and underarms. Repurchase? I have a fresh bottle waiting to be opened!

Fruits of the Islands Toasted Coconut Glycerin Loofah Bar: Several years ago, a very good friend of mine bought me several glycerin loofah bars while on vacation in Hawaii. These appear to have come from a candy company, and they do not appear to sell these anymore, but there are many other companies who produce glycerin soap infused loofahs. They offer such a wonderful way to clean and exfoliate at the same time, and they are great for hand washing as well as bathing. Repurchase? I have one left, and will definitely consider purchasing more in the future.

Spongellé Hand Defense Hand Wash Infused Buffer ($14.00 each or $56.00 for a 4-pack from Spongellé): Spongellé Hand Defense is a wonderful new addition to the Spongellé line, and this launch offers a perfect way to thoroughly wash hands during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, you won't mind how often that you need to wash your hands given that these soap infused sponges thoroughly clean and exfoliate, plus they get into every hard to reach spot. Additionally, they don't strip the skin, but instead they leave it hydrated, soft and smooth. The four available scents are delicious, and the creamy lather is incredibly satisfying to the touch. Spongellé suggests that each sponge offers 40+ washes, but I always find that I get more washes out of all of their products than they suggest. Repurchase? I have three more to use before I will need to purchase more.

Biosilk Antibacterial Hand Soap ($6.99 for 12 oz. from Chi): This non-stripping antibacterial soap, with aloe, lavender and silk, smells heavenly and leaves hands soft and hydrated. The light lavender aroma is very pleasant, but it isn't in the least bit overpowering. Repurchase? Definitely! It made washing hands very pleasant! 

Molton Brown Rhubarb & Rose Replenishing Hand Cream ($15.00 for 1.4 oz. from Molton Brown and Nordstrom): I am completely obsessed with this hand cream because it is fast absorbing, unbelievably nourishing and hydrating, and because it smells heavenly. It leaves my hands unbelievably soft and supple, and the delectable scent lingers, but is never cloying. It is a beautifully articulated fruity floral that offers the perfect balance between the zesty citrus, Rhubarb and the Rose extract. In my book, this is hand cream perfection. Repurchase? I just opened another tube!

Rahua Hydration Shampoo ($34.00 for 9.5 oz. from Rahua, Dermstore and The Detox Market): Many shampoos claim to be moisturizing, but seldom do they deliver on such promises without leaving behind an unpleasant greasy residue that weighs hair down. Rahua, on the other hand, has in this wondrous shampoo created a delectable cleanser that has a rich and creamy lather that hydrates, rather than strips dry hair, and it never weighs it down. The first thing that you will undoubtedly note, aside from the incredible lather, is the delicious passion fruit and mango aroma– seriously, it smells so good that I often just open it up to have a sniff! The ultra-nourishing shampoo not only hydrates unruly tresses, but it also effectively fights frizz and leaves hair with a lovely shine. If you have straight hair, this is a bit easier to achieve, but if you have naturally curly hair it is a far greater challenge. If you have dry hair, frizzy hair or over-processed hair, then this is a really great shampoo choice for you. Repurchase? Eventually, but I am currently swimming in shampoo!

Rahua Hydration Conditioner ($36.00 for 9.3 oz. from Rahua, Dermstore, The Detox Market): This deeply moisturizing conditioner is perfection for dry, frizzy, damaged hair. It delivers intense hydration without leaving behind a greasy residue, or weighing down hair, and it soothes the cuticle while fighting frizz. I love to apply it and then comb it though from roots to tips, and leave it in for the duration of my shower before rinsing it out. The delectable passion fruit and mango scent is such a treat to the senses, and it lingers in the hair for a little while– though I wish it would linger all day. The first time that I used it I was astonished by the extent to which this lovely conditioner tamed my frizz, deeply nourished and hydrated my hair, and left it with a glossy shine. It also makes my hair very manageable, and leaves my curls with the most lovely soft and glossy ringlets. Repurchase? Just as soon as I need another conditioner, but that is going to be quite some time!

Yves Saint Laurent Gloss Volupté 20 Nude Carat: I have always loved lip glosses, but I really prefer them to be lightweight, non-sticky and beautifully shiny. This gorgeous gloss was an exquisite golden peachy nude with golden shimmer, and I loved every second that I used it. It appears that YSL has discontinued these glosses, and while I am sad I have two other shades that I will enjoy wearing. Repurchase? I might have once I had used the others, but now we will never know!

Overall Assessment: I am not sure that I will be able to finish up nearly this many products next month, but I will certainly try to use up products before opening, or buying more. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in May? Any great discoveries or real duds to report?

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

NORDSTROM HALF YEARLY SALE SAVE UP TO 50% OFF THROUGH JUNE 6

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Nordstrom is now offering up to 50% OFF the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale! Now through June 6 Try Curbside Pickup—it's fast, easy and safe. Visit: www.nordstrom.com

Shop by Department:
Sale: Beauty | Women | Men | Kids | Home

Women's Clothing | Women's Shoes | Handbags & Accessories

Clayton Shagal Bamboo and Honey Exfoliant Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Recently I began using Clayton Shagal Bamboo and Honey Exfoliant, and I have been utterly delighted by the results. This cruelty-free exfoliator has the delectable light aroma of honey and sweet almond oil, and it is a calming treat to the senses. Formulated for normal, dry and mature skin types, this exfoliant pampers the skin while gently removing dead skin cells. The uniform scrubbing particles dislodge and remove dead skin cells effortlessly, and without irritating the skin. I use a light hand as I massage the moisturizing and nourishing scrub into my skin, and after a few seconds I let the scrub sit on my face undisturbed (for a few minutes). After rinsing my skin thoroughly, I note how soft, silky and luminous my skin looks and feels. While it is hydrating, it rinses clean– rather than leaving behind a greasy residue or film. If luminous pampered skin appeals to you, then this is a facial scrub worthy of your attention.

About La Maison Clayton Shagal,

 

La Maison Clayton Shagal is an innovative company that combines passion and expertise in research and development to give your skin the very best: the perfect blend of nature and science. A skincare leader for more than 35 years, the company carefully designs and manufactures its products in its facility in Montreal, Canada, and has a distribution network across North America. La Maison Clayton Shagal collaborates with estheticians and physicians around the world to provide an unparalleled experience of highly effective, safe and easy-to-use products. Each product is tested by specialized independent laboratories and qualified experts according to the principles of Good Clinical Practices of the global ICH, and products are never tested on animals. 

According to Clayton Shagal, this is a, "lightly fragranced creamy exfoliant with a grainy texture." It is formulated to, "revive, soften and brighten your skin."

Benefits:

- Thoroughly removes dead skin cells and impurities

- Exfoliates and deep cleanse the skin

- Protects and fights against skin aging effects

- Leaves the skin smooth and radiant

- Refines skin and improves its texture

- Tightens dilated pores

- Prevents and reduces the formation of blackheads

- Leaves skin feeling refreshed

Key Ingredients:

Bamboo stem extract – Natural skin exfoliator and resurfacer

Honey extract – Natural moisturizer with nourishing, humectant properties

Sweet almond oil – Natural emollient that tones and hydrates skin

Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters – Natural emollient, remarkly similar to human body oils with anti aging, moisturizing and softening properties that normalizes activity in sebaceous glands

Vitamin E – Antioxidant that protects the skin and reduces damage caused by free radicals

Algae extract – Polypeptides rich in amino acids with anti-inflamatory an anti-stinging actions that soothes irritated skin

Mugwort extract – Powerful antioxidant, natural and rich in vitamins with fortifying and toning power that calms and soothes redness and activates skin renewal and regeneration

Avocado Oil – Powerful antioxidant with hydrating, nourishing, regenerating and restructuring properties that stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis

Directions: 1 or 2 times weekly, according to the recommendations of your skin care specialist. Cleanse skin with a Clayton Shagal cleanser. Lightly moisten skin. Apply Bamboo & Honey Exfoliant to face and neck (avoid eye contour). Leave on for 3 to 5 minutes. With wet finger tips, lightly emulsify by doing gentle circular movements. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Carefully cleanse face and neck again with a Clayton Shagal cleanser.

Overall Assessment: What a lovely cruelty-free exfoliant! I can't wait to share more of their products with you!

$50.00 for 1.7 oz. from Clayton Shagal (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Hourglass Nº 13 Precision Smudge Brush Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

The Hourglass Nº 13 Precision Smudge Brush is a brush that I had been considering for a while, and I finally picked it up during a recent sale. This smudge brush has very soft Taklon bristles that are gentle on the skin without sacrificing efficacy. 

This brush is ideal for smudging liner into the lower lash line, but also works well for a soft and smoky smudged effect in the upper lash line. It can be used with powder, cream or liquid products and the pointed dome fits nicely in the lash line. I often use it to soften my pencil liner or smudge powder and cream shadows into my lash line. It also blends and softens harsh lines effortlessly. The metal handle is comfortable in the hand, and it is nicely weighted for ease of use.

According to Hourglass, this is a: "Tapered dome bristles are ideal for drawing along the lower lash line."

FEATURES AND BENEFITS:

• Features PETA-approved, high-grade, ultra-soft Taklon bristle 

• Taklon is a more hygienic alternative to animal hair and an excellent alternative for those who suffer from animal hair allergies 

• Weighted metal handles provide control for effortless blending and application 

• May be used to apply liquid, cream or powder products 

• Vegan and cruelty free

Directions: Use to smudge products onto skin, such as along your lashline.

The tapered dome, and its soft Taklon bristles are comfortable against even the most sensitive skin.

I have washed my brush many times, and it still has not shed a single Taklon bristle.

Overall Assessment: If you are looking for an excellent smudge brush, then look no further.

$36.00 from Hourglass, Nordstrom, Ulta, Beautylish, Bluemercury and Bloomingdale's (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

SkinStore Spring Sale Up to 50% Off

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SkinStore has some truly amazing sales, and their Spring Sale features Up to 50% Off! There are so many incredible deals, and a tremendous number of first-rate products. I have scored lots of amazing deals during their sales, and I see some fantastic temptations here! Keep an eye out for their upcoming Memorial Day Sale as well!

SPACE NK: ENJOY $20.00 OFF When You Spend $100.00

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Space NK is offering a $20.00 Off when you spend $100.00. It will automatically be added to your Online shopping bag once you hit the minimum purchase.

If you have been waiting to stock up on some of your favorite brands at Space NK, this is the time to shop. 

Visit: www.spacenk.com

 

The Beauty Spotlight Team Week in Review

Are you a fan of K-Beauty? Check out Never Say Die Beauty’s review of two skincare products from the vast, science-based, yet affordable K-Beauty brand, Abib Cosmetic.  

Westman Atelier Baby Blender Brush is perfection for powder or cream products, but if you love to wear cream blush there is simply no better brush for the job! Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog is obsessed with their brushes, and now wants all of them! 

Dark spots got you down? Prime Beauty shows you that Dermalogica Powerbright can get you right back up. 

A kimono makes the simplest outfit into something special. You can wear it day or night, at home or out, at the beach or pool, dressed up or down, during cool or warm weather. Visit Angie at Your True Self Blog to see her ideas for over 45 sure-fire ways to rock a kimono! 

Barbie’s Beauty Bits will debunk some incorrect skincare tips that she had heard over the years, and here are the Skincare tips she relearned from her esthetician.

The A Method Reset for Your Brows, Lashes and Neck

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

 

The A Method makes first-rate skincare products that are formulated by the dermatologist, Dr. Tina Alster. Her formulations are effective, fuss-free and definitely worthy of great praise. 

I have been testing The A Method 24K Gold Eyelash & Eyebrow and The A Method Neck Firming Cream and I am quite impressed by both of them. If your brows and lashes need a boost, or tech neck (from the countless hours logged into all of your devices) has taken a toll, then these products should be on your radar.

About The A Method,

The A Method was developed by world-renowned dermatologist Tina Alster, M.D. to provide medical-grade skin care formulations for at home use. Each product is formulated with the highest quality ingredients, at guaranteed safety profiles that are stabilized without sacrificing efficacy. Made in the USA. Free of Parabens, Gluten, Fragrance, Colorants and 100% Vegan.

The A Method 24K Gold Eyelash & Eyebrow ($98.00 for .027 oz. from The A Method and Amazon): If you have lashes or brows that could be more full, then this growth accelerator is definitely worth using. I have only used it on my brows, but they are conditioned, hydrated and more full after just a month of use.

According to The A Method,

Growth accelerator with 24K Gold and Peptides for longer, fuller, more luminous lashes and brows.

Improves circulation beneath the skin surface with pure 24K Gold Leaf to reduce hair loss and make lashes appear more radiant. Formulated with ultra-hydrating ingredients that coat and condition cells for moisture retention, to encourage cell growth and improve skin elasticity for longer, fuller eyelash and brow hair.

Directions: Apply serum twice daily at the base of the lashes (along the root-line) and eyebrows near the edge of the brow-line, focusing on areas you want new hairs to grow. AM • PM | All Skin Types.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Rhizobian Gum, Panthenol, Octapeptide, Myristoyl Pentapeptide Collagen, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Extract, Avena Sativa (oat) Kernel Extract, Gold Foil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Hydroxyethylcellulose Hexylene Glycol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate.

The A Method Neck Firming Cream ($90.00 for 4 oz. from The A Method and Amazon): If you are looking for a product to combat the effects of tech neck or crepey skin from aging, then this is definitely an effective cream worth trying. This night treatment stimulates collagen production while you sleep, and tightens and lifts the appearance of sagging and lined skin. It is non-irritating, and it thoroughly sinks into the skin without leaving an oily residue on your pillow. Skin appears lifted, lines are softened and it is beautifully hydrated.

According to the A Method,

Firm, tighten and smooth crepey skin under the neck for a more youthful look. This nightly skin treatment will stimulate collagen production with All-Trans Retinol while tightening and toning the appearance of saggy skin. Applied nightly, expect to see visible results after 4-6 weeks of consistent use.

Directions: Apply a thin layer to the neck and décolleté nightly for 4-6 weeks for optimal results. PM | All Skin Types

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Carnitine, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Isopropyl Palmitate, Caffeine, Taurine, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Aleurites, Moluccana Seed Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethyl MEA, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Tetrahexyldecyl, Retinol, Ascorbate, Rosa Moschata Seed Oil, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Tocotrienols, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Oat Protein, Citric Acid, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Polysorbate 60, Dimethicone, Ammonium Acryloyl, Dimethyltaurate/ VP Copolymer, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid.

Overall Assessment: The A Method makes such high quality skincare products that are effective and fuss-free.

Press Sample (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolasscretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Elina Organics Cranberry Rose Skin Refiner Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Elina Organics Cranberry Rose Skin Refiner is an antioxidant-rich exfoliator that is filled with vitamins and nourishing ingredients that protect the skin, while fruit enzymes and little exfoliating particles remove dead skin cells. It can be used on the face, lips, neck and décolleté, and it is gentle enough that people with dry and sensitive skin should be able to use it without irritation. I like to gently massage it into my skin and then let it sit for a few minutes so that the fruit enzymes can really work their magic. The end result is silky-smooth, soft, hydrated skin with pronounced clarity. This product has the texture of a fruit compote with a light aroma informed by the natural ingredients.

According to Elina Organics,

This plant-based skin refiner contains an abundance of antioxidants, vitamin C and B, and beta-keratin (precursor of Retinol) to nourish your skin and reduce fine lines. Fruit enzymes help to remove excess dead skin cells and soften your skin’s appearance. This product will also gently polish your skin and fade discoloration with crushed rosehips and cranberries. The extract of manuka honey will leave your skin feeling hydrated and rejuvenated after use.

Directions: On damp skin, gently massage a dime-size amount over your lips and face 1-3 times a week. For more intense exfoliation and anti-aging benefits, you can leave it on as a mask for 3-5 minutes. This product is especially beneficial for those who have a dry complexion.

Ingredient Highlights:

Rosehip Powder - exfoliates and brightens, rich in natural vitamins (A, B, C), encourages cell regeneration, reduces hyperpigmentation, soothes redness

Cranberry - a source of vitamin C and E which fight free radicals, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, reduces hyperpigmentation, exfoliates

Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) - stimulates collagen production, smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone by brightening and reducing discolorations

Rye Seed Extract - a natural source of azelaic acid, encourages cell turnover and healing, brightens complexion, reduces inflammation, removes dead skin cells

Manuka Honey - balances pH, exfoliates, helps skin retain moisture, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

All Phyto Ingredients Certified Organic: Rosa Canina Flower Extract (Rose Water), Rosa Canina Fruit (Rosehip) Powder, Vegetable Glycerin, Manuka Honey, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Rosa-Sinensis Flower Extract (Hibiscus), Punica Granatum Seed Oil (Pomegranate), Azelaic Acid Extracted from Rye Seeds, Gardenia Taitensis (Monoi) Flower Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C), Sunflower Phospholipids, Resveratrol (from Organic Grapes), Acetic Acid (Extracted from Apple Cider Vinegar), Essential Oils: Rosa Canina (Rose.).

Overall Assessment: This is such an effective exfoliating mask, and the results are pretty magical. If Elina Organics isn't on your radar, it definitely should be!

$48.00 for 1 oz. from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Westman Atelier Baby Blender Brush Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

Westman Atelier Baby Blender Brush is a cruelty-free dome-shaped brush that Gucci created to use with her Baby Cheeks Blush Stick (which is a cream blush). She sought to make a synthetic brush that distributed color seamlessly, without any streaking whatsoever, and that blended to perfection. Handmade in Japan by, "the most prestigious brush maker in the world"– this brush features densely packed and extraordinarily soft nylon fibers and a sustainably sourced birch handle. The shorter handled brush is perfectly weighted and balanced for greater control when navigating the contours of the face.

I do not own a Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick, but I do have a collection of cream blushes and cream and powder highlighters that apply like a dream with this hardworking little brush. It picks up and deposits the perfect amount of pigment, and it seamlessly blends cream and powder products.

According to Westman Atelier,

A specialized blending brush and perfect match to Baby Cheeks blush. The rounded shape and compact bristles distribute cream color seamlessly and without streaking for a refined application on smaller areas of the face.

After multiple washes, this brush has yet to shed a single bristle.

Features:

- Artisan Design: Handmade in Kumano, Japan using traditional techniques from the most prestigious brush maker in the world. 

- Lacquered Handles: Crafted with the finest sustainable hardwood birch from a Forest Stewardship Council certified forest in Eastern Europe. 

- High Performance: Luxurious and durable. Finely tapered nylon fibers feel ultra-smooth with optimal density, softness and function. 

- Our brush-making process is cruelty-free.

Gucci's notes: 

I played around with Baby Blender's exact size and shape until I found the precise dimensions for a perfect blush application. Blend Baby Cheeks blush into the skin using small circles or tiny buffing strokes for the most natural flush. This brush can also be used to mix multiple shades for a uniquely customized color. Blush is a beautiful way to balance the proportions of the face. Keep color round on the apples to soften your angles. For more contour and definition, work upward along the cheekbones instead.

The Baby Blender Brush is about 4 3/4 inches long. Below you will see its diminutive scale compared to the Westman Atelier Blender Brush (Reviewed HERE).

Overall Assessment: I am just so happy that I purchased this brush, and I find myself reaching for it every single day! I really wish that I could say that my obsession with my two Westman Atelier brushes has quelled my desire to try more of Gucci's brushes, but it has not. I'm already plotting my purchases for the next Sephora sale.

$64.00 from Sephora, Credo Beauty, Violet Grey, COS BAR, Net-A-Porter, Cult Beauty, Bergdorf Goodman and Harrods (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.