SEPHORA SAVINGS EVENT: EVERYTHING ON SALE 10/31-11/10

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Sephora's Big Savings Event is happening now online and in-store! If you having been planning on shopping at Sephora, then this is the time to do it! Here are the Sephora Savings Event dates, and when you can shop:

Get 30% off Sephora Collection with  promo code: EVERYTHING

10/31-11/10. Exclusions apply. Rouge members:  20% off 10/31-11/10 VIB members:  15% off 11/4-11/10 Insiders:  10% off 11/4-11/10 Visit: www.sephora.com

Happy Halloween!

October 2025 Empties For the Face, Body, Hair & Home

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

I managed to finish up 8 products during the month of October, and I was surprised that among the products that I used there were two full bars of soap, 2 candles, 2 serums and 2 hair products. I thought that I would use far fewer things this month, but I surprised myself.

The A Method Pearls of Retinol ($124.00 from The A Method and their Amazon Store): This comes in two strengths, a milder 0.5% concentration of All-Trans Retinol and the stronger 1% concentration. This is the 1% concentration. If you are new to Retinol, I recommend the 0.5% concentration, and work your way up to the 1%. The golden micro-encapsulated "pearls"– which are All-Trans Retinol– are suspended in a wonderfully hydrating solution that contains Hyaluronic Acid and nourishing extracts that kept my finicky skin from drying out and visibly peeling. It is a lightweight and fast absorbing serum that immediately leaves skin hydrated. The formula helps skin cell turnover and collagen production without irritating the skin. This formula softens the appearance of fine lines, reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and brightens the skin. 

It is important to use a high SPF sunscreen when using retinol-based products, and it is imperative to have your skin looked at by your family physician or dermatologist to make sure that the spots and irregularities that you want to treat are neither pre-cancerous, nor cancerous lesions. I have my skin fully evaluated during my yearly physicals, and I usually bring my doctor the list of ingredients of products that I am considering before I use them. I am not a medical doctor, and I consult with mine regularly to make sure that I am not doing something potentially dangerous to my skin.

The pearls hold micro-encapsulated All-Trans retinol stable until mixing with the hydrating serum base when pumped through the dispenser. This also creates the perfect micro-dosing scenario that is supported by hydrating ingredients to avoid dryness, redness and irritation. Purchase Again? I would use this again in a heartbeat, but I have two other retinol products to use before I replace them.

Lancôme Advanced Génifique Serum ($65.00-$260.00 for 0.67 oz. to 3.88 oz. from Lancôme, Nordstrom, Sephora, Amazon, Ulta): This seriously hydrating serum keeps skin quenched and skin dewy. I have been using it in the morning and the evening every single day for months and I just love how hydrated, luminous and noutrished my skin looks and feels. I really love how well this works for my skin. Purchase Again? I already opened another bottle!

Trader Joe's Next to Godliness Oatmeal & Honey Pure Vegetable Soap ($1.99 for two 4 oz. bars from Trader Joe's): This is a fantastic soap that is a pleasure to use, and it is very affordable. This cruelty-free soap is gentle and non-drying on the skin and it forms a luscious creamy lather without stripping the skin. While it is emollient and moisturizing it rinses clean without leaving behind any sort of oily residue. The oatmeal and honey aroma is very light and pleasant, and it is a treat to the senses. It took me two full months to finish both bars of soap (one was in the shower and one was at a high traffic sink), and that makes this two-pack especially economical. Purchase Again? On my next trip to Trader Joe's!

Kérastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste Shampoo ($46.00 for 8.5 oz. from Kérastase Paris, Sephora, Amazon,): This sulphate-free shampoo is formulated to smooth frizzy hair, and it leaves it soft and unbelievably manageable. This is a perfect choice for my curly hair, and what a difference it makes! It is non-drying, tames frizz and leaves my hair soft and moisturized. This is, without question, one of my very favorite shampoos! Purchase Again? A thousand times yes, but I need to use a few of my open shampoos before I buy another one!

NatureLab TOKYO Perfect Repair Conditioner (It seems to have been renamed Perfect Repair. $19.00 for 11.5 oz. from NatureLab Tokyo, Ulta, Amazon): This is a thick and emollient conditioner that leaves my hair soft, manageable, moisturized and shiny. It rinses clean and leaves behind no residue whatsoever. Purchase Again? Not anytime soon because I am swimming in shampoos and conditioners right now, but I would definitely use this again.

LAVANILA The Healthy Candle in Vanilla Grapefruit ($18.00 each for 7 oz. and $32.97 for a 2-pack from LAVANILA and LAVANILA'S Amazon Store): This lovely soy candle has a warm vanilla aroma, that is punctuated by grapefruit, and the warm and spicy cedarwood adds a wonderful woodsy undercurrent. This is a wonderful scent that is perfect for every month of the year. Purchase Again? YES!

LAVANILA The Healthy Candle in Vanilla Sugarcane: ($18.00 for 7 oz. and $32.97 for a 2-pack from LAVANILA and LAVANILA'S Amazon Store): This gorgeous and healthy candle, made from 100% natural soybean wax, has a warm scent that is intoxicatingly beautiful. This would be the perfect hostess gift this holiday season! Purchase Again? Absolutely!

Overall Assessment: I am always immensely gratified when I finish products before they go bad, and I am rather surprised that I finished as much as I did in October. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in October? Any really winners or duds to report?

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Dr. Althea Gentle Vitamin C Serum Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Dr. Althea Gentle Vitamin C Serum is very a gentle Vitamin Serum that is perfect for people with sensitive skin and for people new to using vitamin C serums. Many Vitamin C serums are quite potent and strong, and many people with delicate and sensitive skin find them difficult, if not impossible to use. This one, however, really is gentle, and it provides a nice introduction to the benefits of Vitamin C serums. This serum offers hydration that really buffers the Vitamin C, and soothes the skin while the Vitamin C helps to reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone. It is important to use a high SPF sunscreen when using products that fade dark spots so that you do not end up with more hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. The lightweight serum gel melts into the skin and leaves behind no sort of unpleasant residue, and it has no detectable aroma.

According to Dr. Althea,

Dr. Althea Gentle Vitamin C is a beginner-friendly serum designed to visibly reduce dark spots and even skin tone. It features a unique oil technology that delivers lightweight, non-sticky hydration while Allantoin and Adenosine provide anti-aging benefits. Safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Benefits:

• Brighten & Even Skin Tone: Targets dark spots and pigmentation with 5% Niacinamide, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, and 20% Hippophae Rhamnoides fruit extract for a brighter, more even complexion.
• Elasticity, Firming & Anti-Aging Care: With Allantoin to reduce inflammation and support healing, and Adenosine to boost collagen and cellular energy, this synergy targets signs of aging and smooths fine lines.
• Soothing & Acne-Safe: Gentle formula with fewer than 20 ingredients, ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
• Oil Capsule Moisture Care: Innovative oil capsule technology spreads evenly and creates a natural moisture barrier for deep, refreshing hydration without stickiness.

Directions: Use the dropper to dispense a small amount of serum onto your face, then gently tap to ensure full absorption.

Key Ingredients:

• Contains over 200 times more vitamin content than apples to help detoxify and improve overall skin clarity.
• Niacinamide 5%: Also known as Vitamin B3; targets hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone for a brighter, clearer complexion.
• 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid: A stable form of Vitamin C that helps neutralize free radicals and inhibit melanin production.

Ingredients: Water, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Water, Niacinamide, Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Xanthan Gum, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Adenosine, Disodium Edta, Allantoin, Bifida Ferment Filtrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Caprylyl Glycol.

Overall Assessment: This is such a great introduction to Vitamin C serums for people with sensitive skin, and for people trying them for the first time. I am elated by its efficacy, and I love that it is affordable!

$23.90 for 1.01 oz. from Dr. Althea, Ulta, iHerb, Olive Young and YesStyle (Affiliated links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Dr. Althea Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Dr. Althea Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm is a deep pore cleansing balm that is formulated for all types of skin. It is lightweight, quite emollient and it is free of any detectable aroma. Simply turn the top clockwise (half turn for light makeup and a full turn for heavy makeup), and massage the balm into the skin and then add a little warm water so that it transforms into a milky emulsion. If I am experiencing any pore congestion on my nose or chin, then I massage it for a little longer in those areas to help release what is trapped in my pores. This cleansing balm rinses clean, and you don't have to double cleanse if you prefer not to, but I always double cleanse since that is my preference. It really helps to loosen up sebum and whiteheads when I get them, and even when I don't it deeply cleans my skin without ever stripping it or drying it out.

According to Dr. Althea,

Dr. Althea Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm offers a deep yet gentle pore cleanse for all skin types with a hygienic grinding mechanism that ensures fresh, precise use. It thoroughly removes sebum and impurities from pores, leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed without residue.

Claims and Attributes:

• Innovative Grinding Packaging: Built-in grinder delivers fresh product with each hygienic and convenient use without direct hand contact with the product.
• Powerful Pore Cleansing: Infused with natural ingredients, this formula improves pore cleanliness by up to 99% after use for a clear, refreshed complexion.
• Powerful Yet Gentle Cleansing: Removes sunscreen, waterproof makeup products, and impurities both the surface and deep layers of your skin in one step without the need for double cleansing.
• Moisturizing Finish: Enriched with Madecassoside and plant-derived oils, it leaves your skin nourished and moisturized, and non-tightening finish.
• Clinically Proven for Sensitive Skin: Formulated without harsh irritants and proven safe for dedicate skin types.

Directions: Turn the container clockwise to dispense an appropriate amount. Gently massage onto dry skin in circular motions to dissolve makeup. Add a small amount of water to emulsify, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Key Ingredients:

• Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract: Helps control sebum, delivers powerful antioxidants, supports acne-prone skin, and deeply cleanses pores.
• Soybean Oil: Naturally dissolves makeup and SPF while helping to clear clogged pores and supports the skin's moisture balance and protection.
• Sodium Guaiazulene Sulfonate: Clams redness and soothes sensitive skin, and support gentle pore cleansing without causing irritation or discomfort.

Ingredients: Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Synthetic Wax, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PEG-10 Isostearate, Polyglyceryl-2 Oleate, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Tocopherol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Water, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Sodium Guaiazulene Sulfonate.

Overall Assessment: I am so impressed by the effective and innovative products that Dr. Althea makes, and they are also quite affordable. This cleansing balm was a great find for me!

$22.90 for 1.69 oz. from Dr. Althea, Ulta, Amazon, YesStyle, Olive Young and Stylevana (Affiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Dr. Althea Aqua Marine Deep Serum Review

Press Sample (Affiliat4e Links)

Dr. Althea Aqua Marine Deep Serum is a hydrating serum, which contains Hyaluronic Acid, that is very effective for dehydrated skin and skin that needs a little extra hydration. I give the bottle a good shake before use, and then massage a small amount of the lightweight serum into my skin and it immediately sinks in and leaves behind no residue. It leaves my skin hydrated, soft, smooth and glowing. I immediately follow with a face oil or moisturizer, but I can definitely see the difference in my hydration levels and retention.

According to Dr. Althea,

A lightweight vegan face serum that provides deep hydration for all skin types. Fast-absorbing and non-sticky, it delivers lasting hydration while supporting the skin barrier and calming the skin. Uses patented 3D Hyaluronic Acid technology with 70% Bambusa Vulgaris (Bamboo) Water to deliver deep, long-lasting hydration and enhance the absorption of active ingredients.

Benefits:

• Long-Lasting Deep Hydration
• Non-Greasy & Fast Absorbing 
• Glowy & Dewy Finish

Directions: Apply 2-3 drops to face and neck after toner. Finish with Marine Watery Cream for extra hydration. I personally seldom use a toner, and therefore I apply it to warm and damp freshly cleansed skin.

Ingredients: Bambusa Vulgaris Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Water, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Niacinamide, Raffinose, Panthenol, Propanediol, Xanthan Gum, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Fructooligosaccharides, Centella Asiatica Extract, Cyperus Rotundus Root Extract, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hyaluronate, Adenosine, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Disodium Edta, Sodium Dna, Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract, Maltodextrin, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Hizikia Fusiforme Extract, Sargassum Fulvellum Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Butylene Glycol, Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract, Guaiazulene, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Oleyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid.

Overall Assessment: The more products that I try from Dr. Althea, the more I love this K Beauty brand. Their products are effective and affordable, and that is a win-win in my book.

$15.81 for 1.01 oz. from Dr. Althea, Amazon and YesStyle (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Crate & Barrel Up to 60% Off Clearance Sale: New Finds Galore!

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Crate & Barrel is having an up to 60% Off Sale on their clearance section across departments, and there are so many amazing products included in the sale. I regularly shop their sales, and I have found some of my most prized items for my kitchen and home from them. There are many additions to the sale, and many that I am finding too hard to resist. It is worth taking a look if you are holiday shopping.

Visit: www.crateandbarrel.com

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Late October Week in Review

Hi Beautiful You Lash Perfecting Mascara is cruelty-free, smudge-proof, flake-free and it gives lashes a natural and full look without being overdone. Lola's Secret Beauty Blog loves that it stays put until you remove it and that it is affordable.

When it comes to fashion you can actually mix and match everything. Nancy from Nancy's Fashion Style shows a combination that is very stylish: denim and lace in a long dress with brown accents.

An easy way to get dressed up for evening is to grab a pretty top and wear it with simple pants or a basic skirt. Angie from Your True Self Blog recommends an evening look maker for Fall and Winter that will instantly upgrade your outfit.

As we start shopping or at least thinking about shopping for the holidays, Allison from Never Say Die Beauty introduces her fabulous new premium leather bag from Latico Leathers!

Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm Review

 

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm is an innovative cleansing balm that is housed in a twist-up container that delivers the precise amount of balm that you desire, and without sticking fingers into the jar. Simply twist the top clockwise and you can control the amount that is dispensed. The balm itself is lightweight and super emollient, and it easily removes waterproof makeup and sunscreen. It is quite concentrated, and therefore I only use a tiny amount, and after I massage it into my skin I add a little water to emulsify the balm. I follow up with a cleanser since I am a big proponent of double cleansing, but some might prefer to use this as their only form of cleansing. It has no detectable scent, and it is really a pleasure to use, and I enjoy incorporating it into my cleansing routine.

According to Dr. Althea,

Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm features an innovative built-in grinder for hygienic, precise use every time. With 14 essential ingredients, it gently cleanses sensitive skin while keeping the product fresh and protected from water exposure.

Benefits & Claims:

• Innovative Grinding Packaging: Built-in grinder delivers fresh product with each hygienic and convenient use without direct hand contact with the product.
• Powerful Yet Gentle Cleansing: Removes sunscreen, waterproof makeup products, and impurities both the surface and deep layers of your skin in one step without the need for double cleansing.
• Moisturizing Finish: Enriched with Madecassoside and plant-derived oils, it leaves your skin nourished and moisturized, and non-tightening finish.
• Clinically Proven for Sensitive Skin Free: Formulated without harsh irritants and proven safe for dedicate skin types.

Directions: Turn the container clockwise to dispense an appropriate amount.

Gently massage onto dry skin in circular motions to dissolve makeup. Add a small amount of water to emulsify, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Key Ingredients and Their Attributes: 

• Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil: Deeply moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
• Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil: Gently yet effectively dissolves impurities for a thorough cleanse.
• Madecassoside: A powerful anti-inflammatory compound that soothes irritation and supports skin healing.

Ingredients: Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Synthetic Wax, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, PEG-10 Isostearate, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Madecassoside, Centella Asiatica Extract, Asiaticoside, Water.

Overall Assessment: Dr. Althea is such an effective and affordable K Beauty brand, and this cleansing balm is definitely a great find for me.

$22.90 for 1.69 oz. from Dr. Althea, iHerb, Ulta, Olive Young, StyleVana and Amazon (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Frøya Organics Magic Wrinkle Eraser Night Balm Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Frøya Organics Magic Wrinkle Eraser Night Balm is a rich and emollient night balm that nourishes, moisturizes and softens the appearance of fine fine lines and wrinkles. I scoop a tiny amount out of the jar and warm it between my hands until it melts. I then massage it into my warm and freshly cleansed skin, that is still slightly damp, and the ritual feels so satisfying and calming. The result is very moisturized skin that is likewise soft, smooth and luminous. It has a faint natural aroma that is informed by the natural ingredients, but it is light and unassuming.

According to Frøya Organics,

The products are specifically made for people in harsh weather. In Norway, we have temperatures from 30 to -30 degrees and a lot of rain, wind, and snow. The products are made for extreme conditions. Making them suitable for everyone, harsh weather or not. The products work for almost all skin types; oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive.

Ingredients & Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:

Directions: All of their products are extremely potent. Other products are filled with water and chemical fillers. Therefore you only need a small amount on the tip of your finger. Apply a thin layer of the Glow Balm to your face in the morning. It’s super potent: you only need a tiny amount.

4-Piece Set:

Overall Assessment: I am quite impressed by all four of the Frøya Organics products that I have been using, and would like to try some of their other offerings next. Frøya Organics is a skincare brand worth trying.

$49.00 for the Night Balm alone or $119.00 for the 4-piece set from Frøya Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.