The Beauty Spotlight Team Week in Review

Angie from Your True Self Blog has discovered 11 simple ways to stay healthy and live longer. It's never too late, so why don't you start adding years to your life today?

The Boxwalla October Beauty Box: A Skincare Nerd's Dream featuring Cipher is a revelation in high quality and effective skincare. Lola's Secret Beauty Blog gives these products an A+, and thinks you really need to know about this brand.

If you follow Allison from Never Say Die Beauty, you know that she loves all things heart-shaped. Check out her recent surprise when a heart-shaped lipstick arrived in her Boxycharm box!

September 2023 Empties for the Face and Body

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

September has already come and gone! How is that even possible?! I managed to use up 11 products, and gleefully placed the empty container in my recycle bin. It feels so good to finish things up before they turn, and I hope that I am able to do a good job in October. Here is what I finished up, and my thoughts about each of these products:

Spongellé Riviera Collection Body Buffer in Ibiza Bloom ($18.00 from Spongellé):  Spongellé's brilliant body wash-infused sponges effectively and gently clean and exfoliate the skin, and they also leave the it deliciously baby soft, smooth, supple and moisturized. They really excel in their ability to clean and exfoliate the skin while delighting the senses with their delightful aromas. Ibiza Bloom Notes: Top: Orange Flower, Magnolia, Green Vines. Middle: Jasmine Buds, Tuberose, Ylang. Base: Sandalwood, Musk, Amber. Purchase Again? It appears that this line was discontinued, but there are so many other lovely body buffers from which to choose. I have already opened another one!

Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar ($10.82 for. 3-Pack from Amazon, Walmart, Target and iHerb): I can't believe that I have never reviewed this wonderful bar before! This gentle cleansing bar can be used on the face and body, and it deeply cleans without stripping the skin. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, this bar does what it says and it is rich, creamy and so satisfying to use! Purchase Again? Without question!

Baylis & Harding Goodness Natural Body Wash in Lemongrass Ginger ($6.79 for 16.9 oz. from Amazon and Target): I have been gleefully using Baylis & Harding body washes since the British brand launched in the US a few years ago, and their truly affordable luxury products are a treat to the senses without putting a dent in your wallet. If you are a fan of brands like Molton Brown, you will be elated by this affordable alternative.

One of my most coveted products is the Baylis & Harding Goodness Natural Body Wash in Lemongrass & Ginger, and I have really been enjoying it a lot these days. The uplifting aroma is a delight to the senses without being in the least bit overpowering. Purchase Again? Yes, as long as they make it!

Curél Foaming Facial Wash ($15.00 for 5 oz. from their Amazon Store): I was particularly interested to see whether this foaming and moisturizing cleanser, which is made for dry and sensitive skin, would be a good match for my normal/combination skin. I am a fan of hydrating cleansers that are gentle enough for sensitive skin, but I like them to rinse clean without leaving behind any sort of residue that requires a second cleanse (when they would be used last in a double cleansing routine).

This cleanser exceeded my expectations. It has a wonderful and dense foam that thoroughly cleans the skin without stripping it in the least bit, and it rinses clean without any sort of residue. It is fragrance-free (and unscented) and it leaves my skin silky-smooth and hydrated without feeling as though I need to wash my skin again to feel clean. It is gentle, a pleasure to use, and it feels like a great match for my normal/combination skin. Purchase Again? Definitely!

100% Pure Watermelon Cucumber Water Locking Facial Mist ($25.00 for 1.7 oz. from 100% Pure): This is an ultra-hydrating mist that refreshes, plumps and leaves skin luminous. Like their serum and moisturizer, this facial mist also has a wonderful watermelon and cucumber aroma, but it fades away quickly. Purchase Again? Probably not because I have a lot of moisture mists to use up, but I really liked this one a lot.

GOOD FAITH Softening Moisturizer + Plant-Derived Squalane ($26.00 for 1.69 oz. from GOOD FAITH and Amazon): is a wonderful lightweight and fast absorbing antioxidant-rich moisturizer that leaves my skin deeply moisturized all day long. This nourishing lotion has a very light citrus aroma that fades as soon as it melts into the skin. It can be used as a daytime and nighttime moisturizer, and it leaves my skin soft and smooth. It is formulated for all skin types, but if you have particularly dry skin you might want a richer cream during the colder months of the year. Purchase Again? I would if I wasn't swimming in moisturizers!

AveSeena Ageless Perfection Cream ($157.00 for 1.7 oz. from AveSeena and AveSeena's Amazon Store): is an ultra-nourishing cream that is lightweight, incredibly emollient, and it melts into the skin leaving it soft, smooth, supple, richly moisturized and velvety to the touch, and without any sort of residue left behind. It makes your skin feel so good that it might be difficult to keep yourself from repeatedly touching your face!

It is formulated for sensitive, dry, oily, prematurely aged, mature, combination and balanced skin, therefore it was formulated for essentially everyone. It was created to effectively treat dryness, dehydration, dullness and uneven skin tone. It can be used both as a daytime and a nighttime moisturizer, but you will need a separate sunscreen if you use it during the day.

It has a gorgeous aroma that is informed by a delightful compilation of Rose Damascena, cucumber hydrosols and lavender, and the scent is 100% natural from the listed ingredients. It offers a wondrous and luxurious aromatherapeutic sensory experience without being in the least bit overpowering. Purchase Again? Perhaps once I have finished up more of my open jars of face cream.

Erno Laszlo Phelityl Night Cream ($146.00 for 1.7 oz. from Erno Laszlo, Nordstrom and Amazon): which is pH-balancing, is formulated to repair, strengthen and hydrate your skin while you sleep. It is very thick, but miraculously lightweight, fast-absorbing and non-greasy. It quickly melts into the skin, leaves behind no residue whatsoever, and deeply moisturizes. When I wake up my skin is so soft, supple, moisturized and luminous. Additionally, it softens the appearance of fine lines and makes my skin look incredible. It can also be used during the day, but it contains no sunscreen, and therefore you need to use a separate sunscreen if you use this during the day. It has a very light and pleasant aroma that quickly dissipates, and it can be used for all types of skin. It is perfect for my normal/combination skin, but I think that people with dry skin might prefer a richer cream at night. Purchase Again? I already opened another jar!

Erno Laszlo Hydra-Therapy Gel Cream ($140.00 for 1.7 oz. from Erno Laszlo): is a moisture-rich, deeply hydrating and fast-absorbing gel cream that melts into the skin, leaves behind no residue whatsoever, and immediately delivers results. The antioxidant-rich cream is formulated to be utterly weightless and it does an exquisite job quenching dry and dehydrated skin. It calms and soothes inflamed skin, and leaves it soft, supple and luminous. While it contains fragrance, toward the middle of the ingredients, it doesn't have much of an aroma to speak of. Purchase Again? I already opened another jar!

Serendipitous Eau de Parfum Spray ($50.00 for 50 ml. from Lucky Scent): is a truly delectable fragrance with notes of Cocoa, Tahitian Vanilla and Blood Orange. While it may sound more like a gastronomic delight than one might imagine for a perfume, it is infinitely wearable, and the beautiful fusion of its notes create an aroma that is at once sweet, smooth, creamy, deep, rich, warm and hypnotic. In fact, this tantalizing fragrance is intoxicatingly addictive, soothing and scrumptious. Once it wears down, its sillage lacks longevity, but instead it sits close to the skin and mellows so as not to impose itself on passersby. I absolutely love this fragrance, and its warmth is perfect for the Autumn. Purchase Again? I am contemplating it because this smells utterly delectable!

Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Midnight Blue ($29.00 for 10g. from Charlotte Tilbury, Sephora, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Beautylish, Selfridges, Cult Beauty and John Lewis): This wonderful formula is so creamy to the touch and easy to blend, and it glides across the skin without any tugging or pulling, and it deposits color evenly and effortlessly. It allows you to create a very clean crisp line, but gives you enough time before setting to make a smoky smudged line as well. Once it does set, it is completely budge-proof, and lasts on me all day long, and without a primer. I do not experience any transfer, smudging or fading, but I do not have very oily eyelids, and your wear-time may vary if you do.

I found myself mesmerized by the beauty of Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'N' Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Midnight Blue– which struck me as the perfect deep purplish blue, and I fell madly in love with it from the first moment that I saw it in person. This shade can be built up for greater pigmentation and saturation, but it can also be worn more sparingly, and therefore less intensely. Purchase Again? Absolutely, because this color is spectacular!

Overall Assessment: I am happy with what I finished in September, and there were no duds to report. What did you use up, toss out, return or give away in September?

Press Sample and Purchased (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

CLE Cosmetics Hydro Blot Loose Powder Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

In my experience, and despite the fact that I have normal/combination skin, I have always found it difficult to find a non-drying loose or pressed powder. As a result, I nearly always skip finishing powders. When CLE Cosmetics asked me if I wanted to try the new CLE Cosmetics Hydro Blot Loose Powder, I immediately said yes because I have been consistently impressed by their products, and because this powder includes encapsulated Hyaluronic Acid among its ingredients. Therefore, I knew that it would attract, rather than repel, hydration. 

Initially cool to the touch, this translucent powder boasts a powder-to-liquid formulation that immediately melts into the skin leaving a semi-matte finish that looks natural, rather than dry. It sets foundations, blurs imperfections and gives skin a beautiful radiance.

For All Skin Types: Normal, combination, and/or oily skin. Can also be applied on dry, sensitive, and/or mature skin.

Paraben-free ・ Phthalate-free ・ Gluten-free ・ Cruelty-free ・ Vegan ・ Fragrance-free ・ Non-comedogenic ・ Dimethicone-free ・

According to CLE Cosmetics,

We’ve created the perfect companion to pair with our best selling CCC Cream. Hydro Blot Loose Powder provides the benefits of blotting and oil control, without compromising your natural glow. Using the same technology from our Melting Lip Powder, Hydro Blot Loose Powder contains encapsulated Hyaluronic Acid, which bursts upon contact into the illite base, a natural mineral powder that absorbs oil. 

Features:

• Controls oil without over drying
• Translucent powder (no color)
• Blur effect with radiant glow
• Innovative powder-to-liquid formula offers skincare benefits
• Initially cool to the touch
• Semi-matte finish

Directions: For a natural set, dispense a small amount of powder onto the puff applicator. Gently pat down the powder evenly throughout the face. If you’re using a makeup brush, tap some of the powder onto the cap and swirl the brush to get product.

To get more product, press the puff against the net and flip it upside down.

For oily skin, dispense a small amount of powder onto the puff applicator and touch up desired areas throughout the day.

With a majority of the ingredients consisting of skin benefiting essence, Hydro Blot Loose Powder can be applied on bare face, before and/or after makeup application.

Ingredients: Water, Illite, Propanediol, Glycerin, Silica Silylate, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Adenosine, Natto Gum, Saussurea Involucrata Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid.

Overall Assessment: This is such a wonderful loose powder, and I am thrilled that CLE Cosmetics opted to use encapsulated Hyaluronic Acid in this gem. Nicely done!

$35.00 for 0.71 oz. from CLE Cosmetics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

K’Lani Hair Tie Bracelets to Covet

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

If you don't have time to style your hair, and you are destined for a ponytail day, then a good hair tie is essential. My hair ties generally start out on my wrist before making it to my hair, and an attractive hair tie is preferable to an ordinary one. 

K’Lani makes functional and stylish hair tie bracelets that offer the perfect solution! They come in sets of stylish and high quality hair tie bracelets that are so attractive that they look great on the wrist! 

With 10+ collections to choose from, in three sizes, there really is a set for every style! K’lani’s founders love to give back to the community and have donated proceeds and products to local charities.

Sizes:

• Small is better for younger girls and small teens.  It fits wrists under 5" around. 
• Medium is the size of a normal hair tie band. It fits wrists between 5-6.4" around. 
• Large is sized for wrists 6.5-7.5"

"Cute enough for your wrist, strong enough for your hair." -K'Lani

Overall Assessment: What a great discovery for all of the days that my hair ends up in a ponytail! A+

$18.99-$19.99 from K'Lani and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

milk_shake Lifestyling Curl Shaper Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

milk_shake Lifestyling Curl Shaper is a wonderful styling product for curly hair. The creamy texture is easy to distribute throughout the hair and it beautifully defines and enhances curls while fighting frizz and fly-aways. It doesn't weigh down hair, and leaves it touchable, soft, manageable and shiny. It has a lovely fruity aroma, but it fades quickly and shouldn't bother people with fragrance sensitivities. If you have curly hair, then this is a worthwhile product to have. It does include silicone-based ingredients, mineral oil and fragrance in case those are ingredients that you avoid, but they don't pose a problem for my hair.

According to milk_shake,

milk_shake® lifestyling curl shaper, shaping fluid for curly hair. Ideal for defined and enduring curls. Intensifies natural texture, defining curls and perfecting soft waves. Guarantees shine and color protection plus anti-frizz results.

Directions: Apply to clean, damp hair and proceed with styling.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Cyclopentasiloxane, VP/DMAPA Acrylates Copolymer, Polyquaternium-37, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Phenoxyethanol, Polyquaternium- 11, Parfum (Fragrance), Polysorbate 80, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Disodium EDTA, VP/Dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Propylene Glycol, Benzalkonium Chloride, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Chestnut Extract, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Coumarin, Butylene Glycol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Amyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, PEG-5 Cocomonium Methosulfate, Citronellol, Geraniol, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Sodium Glutamate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Hydrolyzed Milk Protein, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Casein, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride.

Overall Assessment: This is yet another hit from milk_shake. They have become one of my all-time favorite go-to brands for my curly hair! A+

$30.00 for 6.8 oz. from milk_shake and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Boxwalla October Beauty Box: A Skincare Nerd's Dream Featuring Cipher

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Boxwalla has a really special October Beauty Box in store for you! Boxwalla's eco-luxe beauty boxes are an extraordinary value, and the products themselves are nothing short of spectacular. Their carefully curated cruelty-free green beauty boxes are a tremendous value, with steep discounts, and they feature truly covet-worthy luxurious, and sustainably crafted beauty products.

The October Beauty Box is themed A Skincare Nerd's Dream, and features two exquisite products from Cipher Skincare.

Cost to Subscribe: $59.95 (or $49.95 for prepaid); Retail Value: $223.00. Free U.S. Shipping Always.

Each Beauty Box contains (Retail value $223.00):

• Cipher Skincare 88 mph Short Contact Remodeling Balm (full size, 30 ml, $118)
• Cipher Skincare Sensitive Cleansing Cream (full size, 30 ml, $105)

About Cipher Skincare,

Founded by Jenny Hinton in 2018, Cipher Skincare terms their uniquely holistic, streamlined approach "intelligent alchemy". What is intelligent alchemy, you ask? Transformative, multitasking skincare consciously curated from the best of science and nature. Cipher's focus is on coupling benefits that encompass all skin tones, types, and genders in a powerful way. Elegant, intentional formulations based on forward-thinking cosmetic science and the best of nature’s offerings–all selectively concocted in house in small batches to ensure quality and care. Skincare shouldn’t be a chore and Cipher hopes to make this daily ritual just a little bit sweeter.

Cipher Skincare 88 mph Short Contact Remodeling Balm: This incredible product is a serum, treatment and a mask in one serious multitasking product. It has a wonderful emollient gel texture that sinks into the skin. The base is made from Australian Sandalwood Nut Oil, and the water soluble ingredients are "loaded inside a lipid chassis to form a highly active microemulsion suspension system." Furthermore, it contains Retinal, St. John's Wort, Olive Oil and other nourishing ingredients to fortify the skin after lightly exfoliating dead skin cells. The result is soft, smooth and supple skin that is vibrant, luminous and even in skin tone. Additionally, it plumps fine lines and leaves skin clear and refreshed.

According to Cipher Skincare,

A breakthrough short-contact intensive retinoid treatment to noticeably remodel the skin without irritation. high-dose retinal, active brighteners, and restorative factors loaded inside an instantaneous delivery system target wrinkles, blemishes, and uneven pigmentation. skin looks more radiant, clear, and wholly revitalized.

Directions: Massage 2-4 pumps into freshly cleansed, gently towel dried skin for 30 seconds. leave on for 90 seconds; 2 minutes total. add water to emulsify and rinse thoroughly. immediately apply a gentle moisturizer. Introduce into routine slowly and do not exceed recommended treatment time. begin with 1-2x weekly use for the first 4 weeks, then gradually adjust frequency and duration to suit tolerance; up to 15 minutes daily for very advanced users. Most enjoy using 2-7 times per week depending on tolerance and experience level.

Ingredients: Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate, Fusanus Spicatus Kernel (Sandalwood Nut) Oil, Phospholipids, Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquicaprylate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Aqua, Glycereth-26, Dextrin Palmitate, Hydrogenated Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Undecylenoyl Phenylalanine, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Olive Glycerides, Propanediol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Ectoin, Salicylic Acid, Hyperium Perforatum (St. John's Wort) Extract, Panthenol, Oryzanol, Madecassoside, Tocopherol, Retinal, Tripeptide-29, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae (Yeast) Extract, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Ceramide Eop, Bisabolol, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate.

Cipher Night Shift Holistic Tone Balancing Treatment: This potent multitasker plumps fine lines, helps to fade hyperpigmentation and reduces the appearance of redness when skin is irritated. It can be used both in the morning and night, but as the name suggests, it is especially recommended for nighttime use so that it can get to work while you are sleeping. Skin is left soft, smooth, supple, balanced, calm, luminous and fine lines are beautifully plumped. This incredible product is so effective and efficient, and frankly it's shocking that it is able to do so many things and so well!

According to Cipher Skincare,

A comprehensive remedy to support healthy, vibrant skin resistant to sensitivity. A unique focus on holistic revitalization allows potent actives to brighten and blur pigmented spots while skin-strengthening factors neutralize redness, plump fine lines, and build supple resilience. Skin feels calm and nourished with a balanced, even radiance.

It may be just as much art as it’s science, but the idea is to make skin feel good, not just look good. Generally, we would have to reach for multiple products to get the best of both - but not with Night Shift.

Night Shift contains a unique combination of pigmentation correctors, active brighteners and restoration factors that work beautifully together to help balance tone while also firming, repairing, and strengthening the skin!

Directions: Apply two to four pumps to clean face, neck, and eye contour. gently massage to absorb. Perfect as a standalone, multitasking treatment or layered as desired. May also be used during the day. For best results, use at least once per day, wear sunscreen, and limit sun exposure.

Boxwalla took a deep dive into the ingredients in Night Shift, and this is what they had to say:

There is liposome encapsulated enzymes derived from two kinds of Icelandic microalgae, skin mimicking peptides that support collagen stores and boost elasticity, alpha arbutin derived from bearberry ( a red berry that is a favorite food of bears!), antioxidant-rich organic açaí berry oil, glabridin isolated from licorice root and so much more! I’m excited to go into all the nerdy details of the ‘how and why’ of each of these ingredients!

 

One set of ingredients that helps with the repair, restoration, and skin barrier fortification is Icelandic Arctic Microalgae and Night Shift contains not one, but two kinds: Haematococcus Pluvialis & Chlorella Vulgaria.

 

Both are a form of green microalgae, also known as phytoplankton. Depending on the extraction and refining techniques used, microalgae extracts can serve many functions.

 

Haematococcus pluvialis is a rich source of astaxanthin! Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that has tyrosinase-inhibiting properties thereby helping with reducing hyperpigmentation. Chlorella vulgaris is rich in caretenoids. A speciality extract from these two micro algae extracts are combined to form a dna repair active. This combination contains multi-pathway healing enzymes that are encapsulated in a lecithin delivery mechanism to ensure that they are optimally delivered to the skin.

 

The three enzymes are: UVDE (UV Damage Endonuclease), OGG1 (Oxoguanine Glycosylase), and TRX (Thioredoxin) and they enhance both DNA repair and the functionality of the antioxidant system of the skin. They don’t require light or energy to be activated which is why they work at night while you sleep! Studies have shown that they can significantly improve (double!) keratinocyte repair over an 8-hour period of sleep. They also deliver visible improvements in skin radiance, firmness and smoothness! Keratinocytes are the cells in the epidermis (outer layer of the skin).

 

Since microalgae can serve many purposes in skincare depending on how the specific active is sourced and treated, Nightshift also contains a specially derived Plankton extract from the cell wall of Chlorella, which is a prebiotic active that supports tissue repair and a balanced skin microbiome. 

Ingredients: Aqua, Niacinamide, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Propanediol, Alpha Arbutin, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Glycereth-26, Undecane, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Diheptyl Succinate, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Fruit Oil, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Tridecane, Plankton Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris (Microalgae) Extract, Haematococcus Pluvialis (Microalgae) Extract, Glycerin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Xylitylglucoside, Glabridin, Madecassoside, Beta Glucan, Panthenol, Cetyl Alcohol, Olive Glycerides, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Tocopherol, Bisabolol, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Lecithin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Lactic Acid.

Overall Assessment: This is a box worth getting before it sells out, and Cipher is a brand that you really need to know about. Boxwalla is so adept at curating their boxes, and they are beautifully articulated, purposeful, effective and such a pleasure to use. A+

Cost to Subscribe: $59.95 (or $49.95 for prepaid) from Boxwalla (Affiliate Links). Free U.S. Shipping Always. Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Visit: www.theboxwalla.com

The Beauty Spotlight Team Welcomes Autumn

If you love lattes, mochas, hot chocolate and more, then the SMEG Milk Frother is a worthwhile splurge! Lola's Secret Beauty Blog can't believe just how easy it is to use, and how perfect the drinks are every single time!

If you’re a fan of Thrive Causemetics makeup brand, known for giving back to the community, Allison from Never Say Die Beauty thinks you will love their skincare brand, Bigger Than Beauty, and she absolutely adores their perfect eye gel-cream.

It's the autumn equinox and time to assess what you need for the perfect fall and winter wardrobe. Angie from Your True Self Blog has created a checklist to help you create a complete seasonal wardrobe that works.

SPACE NK ENJOY 20% OFF (ALMOST) EVERYTHING

Affiliate Links

Space NK is having their 20%Off Sale. There are some spectacular products on sale, and it is definitely worth taking look to see if there is anything that really speaks to you! This offer will be available between 7:00am 22nd September and 11:45pm 25th September 2023 (BST). Visit: www.spacenk.com

Included Brands: Augustinus Bader, Acqua Di Parma, AESOP, Charlotte Tilbury, By Terry, Chantecaille, K18, Oribe, Olaplex, Beautyblender, Color Wow, HOURGLASS, Dr. Barbara Sturm, Sisley Paris, Space NK, Kiehl's, Revitalash, Tula Skincare, This Works, Laura Mercier, Kate Somerville, Vieve, Oskia, Fresh, RÉVIVE, Aromatherapy Associates, Natura Bissé, Drunk Elephant, Niod, Vieve, Suzanne Kauffman, Dr. Denise Gross, Living Proof, Medik8, Jo Loves, Tan-Luxe, Eve Lom, Emma Hardie, Paula's Choice, Elemis, Sarah Chapman, NARS, Fresh, Caudalie, Mirror Water, Milk Makeup, Laneige, Summer Fridays, Erborian, Skin Rocks, Malin + Goetz, NÉCESSAIRE, Sarah Chapman, Face Gym, Hair by Sam McKnight, Melanin Haircare, Niod, Olverum, Ouai, Institute Esthederm, Kevyn Aucoin, Stella by Stella McCartney and Sunday Riley.

Excludes: Space NK Beauty Advent Calendar, Sale, Gift Cards, E-Gift Cards, Selected Christmas Sets, Vintner's Daughter, Dr Dennis Gross Electricals, Rare Beauty, Diptyque, Byredo, Bulgari, Juliette Has A Gun, The Ordinary, Naturium, Sol De Janeiro, Hourglass Ambient Lightning Edit Unlocked JellyFish, Ambient Lightning Edit Unlocked Snake, Ambient Lightning Edit Unlocked Leopard, Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm Duo, Kosas The Wet Set, and Kosas Most Wanted Lipstick Set.

Visit: www.spacenk.com

Nurive CoreVital Retinol Cream Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Nurive CoreVital Retinol Cream is an effective and affordable cruelty-free retinol-based cream that gently encourages skin cell turnover while nourishing, hydrating and smoothing the skin. It helps fade sun spots after extended use, and it is formulated with sensitive skin in mind. My skin is acclimated to retinol-based products because I use them regularly, and therefore there was no break-in period for me with this gentle retinol cream. However, It is always a good idea to patch test retinol products before using them on your whole face, and it is always a good idea to have your doctor evaluate your skin before using a product that exfoliates the skin. Suspicious dark spots and moles should be evaluated to make sure that they aren't cancerous or pre-cancerous since it would be a very bad idea to apply exfoliating products to those areas. Furthermore, it is very important to use a high SPF sunscreen on the skin when using products such as retinol since they leave the skin more vulnerable, and therefore one needs to further protect the skin. My skin doesn't peel or become dry with this retinol cream, and instead it looks refreshed and luminous.

According to Nurive,

CoreVital™ Retinol Cream is one of Nurive's CoreVital line that encapsulates our core vision of what luxury skincare can and will be: Skincare for all.

With sensitive skin in mind, we carefully formulated CoreVital Retinol Cream with gentle ingredients.

Features:

• Retinol: Helps relieve wrinkles
• Cica: Soothes irritated skin.
• Okra & Squalane: Hydrates skin.
• Tocopherol: Antioxidant & anti-aging.
• Clean and Ethical Beauty.
• Certified Vegan, Cruelty Free, Carbon Free by Carbon Fund.

Caution: For external use only. Keep away from direct contact with eyes, and avoid direct sunlight when applied. Immediately stop using and consult a doctor if skin becomes red, swollen and/or itchy during use. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature.

Overall Assessment: This is so effective and affordable, and I am so pleased to be using it! 

$21.99 for 1.69 oz. from Nurive and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved,

Affordable Luxury Finds for Skin & Hair from KIBON Beauty, Illuminessence, J's Natural Beauty and Esha Girl

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As summer gives way to fall, it is time to add more nourishing and hydrating products into our skincare and haircare routines. I have discovered numerous new-to-me brands that are perfect to usher in the new season, and to make matters even better, they are affordable luxury!

KIBON Beauty Radiance Sheet Mask ($13.00 for 5 sheet masks from KIBON Beauty): These hydrating sheet masks offer the skin a radiant and dewy glow! Formulated to renew dull texture and hydrate the skin, KIBON uses their proprietary LipoButy™ Technology in the KIBON Beauty’s Radiance Mask. These masks are, "inspired by botanical science and the art of simplicity, KIBON Beauty provides high quality, plant-based, low ingredient count skincare that is designed for all skin types." As a skincare brand, KIBON is rooted in science, and they only use proven active ingredients that have been verified for their efficacy.

KIBON Beauty complies with the European Cosmetic Regulation, the most stringent cosmetic regulation in the world, which bans 1328 ingredients that are known to be toxic to the body. KIBON Beauty is Cruelty-Free, 100% vegan, formulated without any harsh chemicals, irritants, allergens, fragrance, mineral oil, heavy metals, parabens, GMOs, petroleum, paraffin, SLS/SLES, TEA, and DEA. All ingredients are responsibly and ethically sourced.

Illuminessence Cucumber Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($28.00 for 1 oz. from Illuminessence): This collagen boosting facial serum is deeply hydrating and nourishing, With ingredients such as aloe vera and cucumber distillate, this serums lightweight and fast absorbing. It plumps fine lines and leaves skin comfortable and luminous. All of Illuminessence products are dermatologist tested and approved. They only use all-natural, organic products and the only preservative ever used is Eco-Certified in compliance with Organic Labeling. 

Illuminescence believes in transparency and in making high quality natural products that are affordable. Every ingredient is carefully selected to meet the strictest European standards for skincare. Janna Fackrell, the founder, together with her husband Cecil Fackrell, who practiced dermatology for 20 years, created specialty formulas that address varied skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. From hydrated skin to shiny and soft hair, illuminessence offers a range of all-natural, organic, and anti-aging goods that improve and keep your youthful glow. Each product is handcrafted, dermatologist-tested and approved, and cater even to the most sensitive skin. But that's not all – illuminessence is also committed to giving back to the community. 25% of their proceeds go towards Sacred Hearts Healing Center, a non-profit spiritual center dedicated to offering guidance through various healing modalities in a caring, peaceful, and sacred atmosphere.

Organic Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera, Vitamin B5, Cucumber Distillate, Chamomile Hydrosol, Allantoin, Calendula Extract, Sodium Lactate, Propanediol, Liquid Germal Plus (Eco Certified Preservative).

J's Natural Beauty God's Gift Organic Collagen and Anti-Aging Moisturizing Cream ($36.99 from J's Natural Beauty and their Amazon Store): This natural brand makes affordable and inclusive products for all hair and skin types. All of their products are 100% plant-based, vegan, and free from synthetics, parabens, phthalates, mineral oils, and sulfates. Furthermore, they are packaged and shipped using 100% recyclable materials. This thick and fast-absorbing cream includes an SPF 30, and it melts into the skin in a pleasant and luxurious way. It nourishes and moisturizes the skin, and it softens the appearance of fine lines. It is non-greasy, and it includes nourishing ingredients such as Shea Butter, Borage oil, Rosehip oil, Aloe Vera, Macadamia Seed oil and Myrrh.

Claims and Features:

• Moisturizes, Lifts and Firms – Keep your skin young-looking with our facial moisturizer! Like a hydrating serum, our day and night cream for face locks in moisture, providing a 10-layer deep hydration to keep your skin soft and supple.
• All-Natural Firming Cream – Our hydrating face cream is packed with natural extracts, antioxidants, vitamins and essential oils that stimulate collagen and peptide production. Their skin tightening properties make fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable.
• Safeguards Your Skin from the Sun – No need to use a separate facial sunscreen! Our moisturizer with SPF 30 shields skin against sun damage and harmful UVB rays, while keeping it well-nourished.
• Deals with Scars and Uneven Skin Tones – An alternative to retinol cream, our collagen face cream helps blur scars while evening out skin tone. These face care benefits bring you closer to having that flawlessly smooth skin you’ve always dreamed of!
• Light Weight and Highly Absorbent Moisturizer – Hate the greasy feel of thick facial cream? With this moisturizer face cream, no more icky feeling! Use it as a day cream and night moisturizer to help combat dryness and address lines and wrinkles.
• Suitablefir all skin types.

Ingredients: Distilled Water, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea)Butter, Organic Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehip)Fruit Oil, Organic Borago Officinalis(Borage)Oil, Organic Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia)Seed Oil, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis(Jojoba)Oil, Organic Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Organic Magnifera Indica(Mango)Butter, Organic D-Alpha Tocopherol Vitamin E, Organic Commiphora(Myrrh)Oil, Organic Camellia Sinensis(Green Tree)Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Other Organic Essential Oils Xantham Gum, Cetearyl Olivate And Sorbitan Olivate, Euxylk 900 Light.  

About J’s Natural Beauty, Keeping beauty real and honest is at the heart of J’s Natural Beauty. This small, Black, woman-owned business uses 100% plant-based ingredients for effective and luxurious natural skin and hair care. Free from synthetics and other toxic ingredients that are common in other so-called “natural” brands. Their motto “Where real is real” is seen in every formula and empowers everyone to let their natural beauty shine.

Esha Girl Natural Haircare (Starting at $6.99 from Esha Girl, Amazon and Walmart): Esha Girl makes a wonderful collection of hair care products, and their recent launch  is formulated to nourish and define natural curls. Esha Natural is formulated with the finest natural ingredients, like coconut and rosemary oils, and a unique blend of plant protein and a biotin complex to ensure that hair and scalp stay healthy, no matter how one chooses to style their locks. The Esha Natural collection includes a hydrating shampoo, a hydrating conditioner, a curl defining smoothie, a curl moisture leave-in, an anti-itch relaxing scalp serum, and a heat protection spray. 

My curly hair is left soft, silky and hydrated hair after using these products, and there is no stripping or oily residue. Esha uses innovative, cutting-edge, medical-grade technology to bring its products to market, working with industry specialists to formulate the best hair care solutions for today’s consumers. Embrace your natural beauty with the Esha Natural Line - the ultimate solution for healthy, vibrant, and beautiful curls. Formulated and Made in the USA, the cruelty-free line is also free of parabens, sulfates, alcohol, and gluten.

Overall Assessment: These are wonderful and affordable finds worthy of your consideration. A+

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