If you are seeking something practical and luxurious to pamper your mom, or yourself, this Mother's Day, then AQUIS Hair Towels and Turbans are perfect gifts. I use mine each time I wash my hair, and can't imagine using anything else because they have really spoiled me. They dry hair so much faster than anything else that I have tried, and they aren't bulky or cumbersome.
AQUIS Lisse Luxe Hair Towel ($30.00 from Ulta, Dermstore, AQUIS Official Amazon Store and Sephora): I have favored using hair towels and turbans, over regular bath towels, for many years, but AQUIS is definitely my very favorite brand for both. Their Lisse Luxe Hair Towel is extra large (19"x50"), ultra-luxurious, very plush, unbelievably soft, it is ultra-absorbent.
According to AQUIS,
Aquis towels and turbans are engineered to wick water out of hair, fast… five times faster than cotton. By reducing the amount of time your hair spends weakened by water without heat or rubbing, the health of your hair will improve. Less frizz. Less breakage. Longer color. More body. It’s the healthiest, strongest version of your own hair. Which naturally, looks good.
Lisse Luxe may sound like the name of an ‘exotic’ artiste. But she’s the perfect towel for normal hair. Lisse Luxe also excels at curly hair, fine hair, damaged hair and any hair that needs gentle treatment. New generation Aquitex improves absorbency and comfort. Wraps and tucks easily leaving hands free while hair dries. Dries fast with less friction, to minimize frizz and damage.
According to AQUIS, The all around gentleness of Lisse Luxe. With the convenience of an easy to fasten turban. Great for curly and delicate hair needing the gentlest treatment. New generation Aquitex improves absorbency and comfort. Wraps and fastens easily leaving hands free while hair dries. Dries fast with less friction, to minimize frizz and damage.
Overall Assessment: I love these tools and turbans, and they are such a luxurious treat that makes any haircare routine much more enjoyable.
*In-store offer 6/6-6/16/19. One Aquis hair towel and one Molton Brown travel set per customer. See sales associate for details. ONLINE: Summer Beauty Event gifts will be automatically added at Checkout if available and shipped at the time of your order; one of each gift per order, per customer, while supplies last. Qualifying items will be designated on the site with an indication in colored type on their product page. The value of your Cosmetics or Fragrance order must total $125 for the Aquis hair towel and $325 for the Molton Brown travel set, before shipping and tax. Does not apply to previous purchases or wedding registry items. Other exclusions may apply. International orders do not qualify. Shop: www.neimanmarcus.com
With Coachella only a few weeks away, I thought that I would select some amazing products to prep at home, and to take with you to the desert. These beauty finds are so wonderful that you will use them long after Coachella ends!
AQUIS Waffle Luxe Hair Towel ($30.00-$45.00 from Sephora): I have numerous AQUIS Hair Towels and Hair Turbans, and their Waffle Luxe Hair Towels are among my very favorite. They are ultra gentle and super absorbent. Before heading off for a weekend in the desert, I would suggest deep conditioning your hair to protect it, and using an AQUIS Waffle Luxe Hair Towel is a luxurious way to pamper your tresses afterward.
According to AQUIS,
With increased surface area from the layered fabric, Waffle Luxe loves thicker hair requiring more water wicking. New generation Aquitex improves absorbency and comfort. Wraps and tucks easily leaving hands free while hair dries. Dries fast with less friction, to minimize frizz and damage.
Conair UltraDetangler Medium Nylon Round Brush ($14.99 at Target): Conair's UltraDetangler effectively gets out knots in wet or dry hair. In addition to being great for thick and unmanageable hair that is unruly– it is also great to create soft beachy waves that are perfect for Coachella!
Scünci Hair Gems ($3.48 from Target): If you are looking for an easy, and temporary, way to adorn your tresses, try out these super cute Hair Gems!
According to Scünci,
Want to glam up your style? Get the trendiest look with scünci’s Hair Gems! In a few seconds, you’ll go from bland to glam for a night out on the town. With two different styles to choose from, we’re here to help you take your hairstyles to the next level.
Scünci Hair Tattoos ($4.99 from Walgreens and Walmart): These Hair and Body Tattoos are easy to apply and remove, and they deliver high impact whimsical style.
According to Scünci,
From your wrists, to your arms, and now to your hair- Scünci’s Hair & Body Art is our new party essential! Applied like a normal tattoo, they go on as easily as they come off. These tats show off your metallic shimmer whether you’re cheering on your favorite band or riding the waves.
Scunci Evolution hair elastics are gentle on the hair and have 'no slip grip' technology. The jelly texture of the elastics ensure hair is held in place, with causing damage. Comes in a mixture of fashionable colours.
Scünci No-Slip Grip Bobbi Pins ($1.26-$5.05 from Walmart and Amazon): Good old fashion bobbi pins get an update with Scünci's "No-Slip" version. They are perfect to stow away in your makeup bag whenever you need a little extra help holding your hair back.
According to Scünci,
Scunic no-slip grip bobby pins maintain your hairstyle in any sticky situation. the inner grooves on these bobby pins feature no-slip grip technology to secure every last strand of hair. you may need one or ten, but you can never have too many on hand. perfect for updos, ponytails and short styles as well. 48 pack ensures that no matter where you put one down you'll always be able to pick one up. black, tortoise and metal shades for unobtrusive hold.
Cuvée Beauty Styling Balm ($45.00 for 5 oz. from Cuvée Beauty and Revolve): This is a very lightweight styling balm that adds hold without making hair feel hard and unnatural. Furthermore, it fights frizz and adds luscious shine.
According to Cuvée Beauty,
This lightweight styling balm is magic. It transforms your hair by delivering a high performance, structured product to craft your hair into your favorite styles. This multi-purpose, multi-dimensional product conditions, provides exceptional hold and blocks humidity without weighing hair down. This unique formula prolongs styles while taming frizz and protecting hair from daily wear and tear.
Cuvée Beauty Champagne Spray ($45.00 for 5 oz. from Cuvée Beauty and Revolve): This styling spray creates tousled beach waves that allow for natural hair movement while remaining lightweight.
According to Cuvée Beauty,
This signature product creates elegant movement and effortless waves for a piece-y modern silhouette. Our lightweight formula has a clean feel leaving you with second day hair everyday.
Get tousled beach waves with the Cuvée Beauty Champagne Spray. A styling spray that creates definition for a lived-in, tousled look. This signature product creates elegant movement and effortless waves for a piece-y modern silhouette. Their lightweight formula has a clean feel leaving you with second day hair every day.
Directions: Spray onto towel dried hair, working from mid-way to ends. Style as usual. To create extra definition and soft hold, spray liberally onto damp or dry hair.
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter Lightening Collection ($9.99 each from Ulta, food, drug and mass retailers): If you are looking to gradually brighten & illuminate your hair, and create glowing brunette tones– then John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter Shampoo & Visibly Brighter Conditioner will do precisely that. It gives brunette hair a warmer and more golden hue, and it will add extra shine and brightness.
According to John Frieda,
Get that natural looking sun-kissed glow with this trio of shampoo, conditioner and in-shower treatment...this is the first at-home range of products to lighten and brighten brunette colour right in the shower. It will illuminate warm honey and caramel tones in your hair to make it look naturally lightened by the sun.
Directions: Prior to shampoo and conditioner, start off with the Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter In-Shower Treatment. Your brunette colour will instantly be lifted up 1 shade, bringing out its lighter, warmer dimensions. It works by removing a type of melanin from the hair shaft that’s particular to brunettes, resulting in a permanent, all-over lighting. The dual-tube applicator lets you blend the lightener in your hands, with no extra mixing step. Run the foaming treatment through your hair, leave it on for 5 minutes, and then rinse completely.
For best results, use the Shampoo and Conditioner daily, and apply the treatment approximately once every four weeks (1-2 times during each color cycle)
Also Available John Frieda Sheer Blonde Brilliantly Brighter Collection ULTA and Mass Retailers.
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter Subtle Lightening Shampoo. Give your brunette hair a natural-looking, illuminating glow. Formulated with honey and marigold flower extract, our Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter Subtle Lightening Shampoo cleanses and gradually infuses golden tones to illuminate the spectrum of your brunette color. For natural or color-treated hair and for use on highlights and lowlights.
Gently massage into wet hair, lather & rinse well. To enhance your glow follow with bb visibly brighter subtle lightening conditioner. Precautions: For external use only. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes.
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter Subtle Lightening Conditioner. Hydrate your hair with a natural-looking, illuminating glow. Formulated with honey and marigold flower extract, this Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter Subtle Lightening Conditioner moisturizes your hair and illuminates the spectrum of brunette tones. For natural or color-treated hair and for use on highlights and lowlights.
John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter In Shower Treatment. Cast a light on color. Brilliant Brunette Visibly Brighter In-Shower Lightening Treatment illuminates to reveal a lighter shade of brunette in 1 wash. Lightens only your natural brunette spectrum, so hair won't appear bleached or orange. For natural or color-treated hair and for use on highlights and lowlights.
Directions: Slip off clear outer cap and discard. Break off tab to expose both holes and apply entire contents of treatment to wet hair, concentrating on the root regrowth or all over. Rinse hands. Leave treatment on for 5 minutes then rinse completely. Follow with bb visibly brighter shampoo or conditioner if desired. Safe for natural, highlighted and colored hair. Precautions: For external use only. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes.
Pedispa Intensive Moisturizing Footmask ($9.99 from Target): Since you will likely be wearing sandals at Coachella, you will want to make sure that your feet are soft, smooth and hydrated. Pedispa Intensive Moisturizing Footmask gets your feet sandal-ready in no time, and with ingredients like Shea butter, apple extract and peppermint, these wearable moisture infused socks will significantly improve the look and feel of dry, winter-worn feet. Be sure to remember to apply and reapply sunscreen to your feet throughout the day!
Lumene Sisu Defend & Replenish Antioxidant Mist ($24.99 at Ulta, CVS and Rite Aid): Since it can get quite hot at Coachella, it is so refreshing to spritz your skin with an antioxidant-rich face mist, and this one nourishes and hydrated too!
According to Lumene,
Instant recovery of your skin with a refreshing mist face. Arctic Pure spring water rich in minerals and birch sap to nourish the skin, charging it with energy with instant moisture. Antioxidant Vitamin B3 and nourish the skin while preserving its natural radiant appearance, and our cutting-edge technology that prevents pollution, saves the results, protecting the skin from the negative effects of daily. For Charging instantaneous energy and health of the skin. Bring your skin a natural radiant appearance.
Directions: Spray all over the face, neck and décolleté needed. Can be used as a basis for your skin care routine or as a quick lift on top of your makeup.
Lumene Valo Bright Eyes All-In-One Eye Treatment ($19.99 from Ulta, CVS and Rite Aid): This ultra-lightweight Vitamin C infused brightening eye treatment hydrates skin and helps diminish the appearance of dark circles. It's a nice way to refresh the skin while imparting it with a dewy radiance.
According to Lumene,
Let the light shine from your eyes with this lightweight cream. Precious handpicked Arctic cloudberry combines with brightening vitamin C to help to diminish the appearance of dark under-eye circles for skin that looks visibly fresher and more awake. Our revolutionary technology reduces the appearance of puffiness, recharging the whole eye area for a brighter, more radiant overall look. Experience the eye opening effects of potent native ingredients.
Directions: Apply a small drop to skin around the eyes, including to the upper lids. Use morning and night for best results.
LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant ($8.00 for the mini and $14.00 for the regular size from Sephora, QVC, Birchbox, Net-A-Porter, Skin Store and Urban Outfitters): LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant is unquestionably one of my all-time favorite deodorants. The formula is filled with healthy ingredients, it comes in a nice assortment of scents, and they even have a Mini Sport Luxe Deodorant that easily stows in your bag to stay when you need a little refresh while dancing in the sun.
Touch 6 Hour Hand Protection ($5.99 from CVS and Walgreens): This portable aerosol spray hand sanitizer is easy to use, it distributes product evenly and quickly, and it leaves hands moisturized without any greasy residue.
According to Touch,
Every day we encounter germs everywhere from counter tops to door handles. Why wash or sanitize after they’ve been exposed to germs and bacteria? With Touch Germ Block™, you will be able to protect your hands for six hours. The alcohol-free formula has improved upon the standard hand sanitizer in three key ways: Traditional hand sanitizers are no longer effective once they dry, so they need to be reapplied every time you touch something. But this unique, patented formula allows for just one application that lasts for six hours on the surface of the skin, providing a persistent barrier of protection. Each application of Touch Germ Block™ softens and conditions your hands with a special blend of essential oils and skin softeners. Unlike an alcohol-based traditional hand sanitizer, this does not dry or roughen hands.
It is available is the following scents: OceanMist, Tropical Breeze, Mint Green Tea Aloe and Unscented.
LAVANILA Fragrances ($19.00-$58.00 for 1.7 oz from LAVANILA, Skin Store, Macy's and Sephora): If you are among the many people who loves vanilla-based perfumes, but who is seeking a more natural fragrance– then LAVANILA The Healthy Fragrance Pure Vanilla is a treat to the senses. Where traditional commercial fragrances are loaded with phthalates and harsher chemicals, LAVANILA makes theirs with all-natural and organic ingredients that are completely free of all harsh chemicals. Instead, they infuse organic sugar cane alcohol with a whole host of essential oils and botanicals, and the end result is delectably scented fragrances that are healthy and safe.
Pure Vanilla, which is described as a blend of pure Madagascar Vanilla, sheer Freesia and creamy Tonka Bean, is a warm and sheer floral and vanilla fusion that sits close to the skin without being in the least bit overpowering. It is neither too sweet, nor is it too floral, but instead it has all of the richness of vanilla without smelling like dessert.
LAVANILA Vanilla Lavender Fragrance is wonderful combination of Madagascar Vanilla and Spanish Lavender yields the most warm and creamy blend of these two aromas. The vanilla softens the edges of the lavender– transforming it into a smooth and creamy vanilla-based floral. It's intoxicatingly beautiful, and perfect for the warm weather.
LAVANILA Vanilla Grapefruit Rollerball combines of warmth of Madagascar Vanilla and the tanginess of pink grapefruit is such a surprising way. The vanilla warms up grapefruit and transforms it into a creamy, warm citrus.
According to LAVANILA,
Each fragrance starts with a warm base of Madagascar vanilla and layers on a unique blend of pure essential oils for an exquisite expression of nature that captures a mood, a memory, or a moment in time. Hailed as the world’s first healthy fragrance, natural technology infuses organic sugar cane alcohol with skin-saving botanicals and antioxidants for a modern twist on the classic art of perfumery.
DDF Protect and Correct Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($67.00 for 1.7 oz. from DDF): If you are in need of a moisturizer that includes a sunscreen, then DDF has several from which to choose. Protect and Correct Moisturizer is formulated to help diminish the appearance of brown spots while offering serious hydration. I would definitely recommend adding an additional high SPF sunscreen since you will need more protection when spending a day in the sun. You will be pleased to know that it leaves behind no white residue whatsoever.
According to DDF,
A moisturizer with Micro-Radiance ComplexTM to help diminish the appearance of brown spots, and SPF 15 to help protect from UVA/UVB damage and future discoloration. Reclaim the natural radiance of even-toned, more youthful skin while helping to prevent future discoloration. This facial moisturizer contains a potent Micro-Radiance Complex and diminishes the look of discoloration for even, translucent, healthy looking skin. Also contains SPF 15 to help protect from UVA/UVB damage and future hyperpigmentation.
Features:
Helps correct the look of discoloration
Helps prevent future hyperpigmentation with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
DDF Daily Protective Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($43.00 for 1.7 oz. from DDF and SkinStore): This antioxidant-rich moisturizer is fragrance-free and super hydrating. It is a wonderful choice if you are sensitive to fragrance, and need a high quality anti-aging moisturizer. You will definitely want to use a higher SPF sunscreen while frolicking in the sun, but this will still be a highly effective moisturizer for daily use. You will be pleased to know that it leaves behind no white residue whatsoever.
According to DDF,
A fragrance-free, antioxidant enriched daily moisturizer that helps shield skin’s surface from UV damage and free radicals that can lead to premature aging. The formula hydrates to help promote skin that looks young and healthy.
Ingredients: Active ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0% (Sunscreen); Homosalate 5.0% (Sunscreen); Octisalate 5.0% (Sunscreen); Octocrylene 2.6% (Sunscreen). Inactive Ingredients: Full List here.
DDF Protective Eye Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($55.00 for .5 oz. from DDF and Skin Care RX): Too few eye creams actually contain any sunscreen, and given the delicacy of the skin around the eye area– one cannot sufficiently underscore the importance of protecting that fragile skin. the but This lightweight formula is deeply hydrating, it softens the appearance of fine lines and it boasts a broad spectrum SPF 15 to offer added protection from the sun. You will be pleased to know that it leaves behind no white residue whatsoever.
According to DDF,
A daily moisturizer that hydrates to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect the fragile eye area. A lustrous, lightweight daytime eye treatment fortified with essential fatty acids and humectants to moisturize and help minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Broad spectrum SPF helps protect the fragile eye area from future UV damage.
Features:
Protects fragile eye area
Minimizes look of fine lines
Directions: Apply evenly before sun exposure and as needed.
Ingredients: Octisalate, Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Homosalate. Inactive Ingredients: Full List here.
KORRES Yoghurt Nourishing Fluid Veil SPF ($35.00 from Sephora and Skin Store): KORRES Skincare fans will fall in love with this sunscreen. It nourishes, hydrates and calms the skin while offering an SPF 30– therefore an additional sunscreen is not necessary. You will be pleased to know that it leaves behind no white residue whatsoever.
According KORRES,
Protect your skin from the sun with the KORRES Yoghurt Nourishing Fluid Veil SPF. This ultra-lightweight fluid instantly disappears into skin providing broad-spectrum UV protection and deep nourishment. The silky texture wears beautifully under makeup for a weightless, luminous finish—making this an ideal daily moisturizer throughout the year. Yogurt, rich in skin-repairing proteins, helps keep skin nourished and protected from the sun’s harmful rays while a blend of rice and camapu extract offers deep hydration and calming properties to soothe skin during sun exposure.
Select Ingredients:
Yogurt: Rich in skin-repairing proteins to help keep skin nourished.
Rice and Camapu Extract: Offer deep hydration and calming properties to soothe skin during sun exposure.
Provitamin B5: Helps reduce inflammation and support natural cell regeneration.
Jojoba Oil: Seals in moisture, leaving skin soft and smooth.
SUN BUM Broad Spectrum SPF 15,SUN BUM Broad Spectrum SPF 30 and SUN BUM Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($ from Beauty Encounter, Ulta, Swell and Forever 21): I have used SUN BUM sunscreens for many years now, and love that they offer a large range of sun protection factors. Their sunscreens moisturize the skin while offering sun protection. The important thing is to remember to reapply your sunscreen frequently, and to limit your sun exposure. Given that it's hard to escape the sun at an outdoor music festival in the desert, it's a good idea to pack a wide-brimmed hat and bring protective clothing.
According to SUN BUM,
Sun Bum Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotions absorb instantly to provide lasting, powerful protection. Between the premium, ultra-lightweight formula and irresistibly beachy smell, you might actually look forward to putting on sunscreen for a change.
SUN BUM Cool Down($11.95 for 6oz. from Beauty Encounter, Ulta, Swell and Forever 21): After a long day in the sun, Cool Down offers wonderful hydration, and it has a welcome cooling effect that is just what you will crave after being outdoors in the heat all day long. Did I mention that it smells heavenly and feels divine?!
According to SUN BUM,
After a long lazy day in the sun, your skin needs revitalization and hydration. Sun Bum's Cool Down Continuous Spray Aloe Vera is enriched with soothing Aloe, Cucumber Extract and Vitamin E, providing an intense hydration to gently restore the skin's natural moisture balance. The light, dry touch formula is quickly absorbed, leaving the skin smooth and soft.
Lightweight formula instantly thickens hair cuticle for added volume and hold. Nourishes hair and gives it a healthy, voluptuous feel. Provides moisture control to eliminate frizz. Safe for all hair types and lengths. Medium hold with a matte finish. Instantly seals hair's cuticle, blocking out frizz-causing humidity. Leaves hair with texture and style that lasts all day. Provides UV Color Protection.
SUN BUM SunScreen Lip Balm ($4.00 from Ulta, Forever 21 and Swell): One thing that you simply cannot forget at home is lip balm with a sunscreen. Whether you were it alone, or under your favorite lipsticks or lip glosses– it will offer your lips protection from a long day in the sun. SUN BUM SunScreen Lip Balms are a definite must-have.
According to SUN BUM,
Keep your lips soft and protected with our flavored Lip Balms in Banana, Key Lime, Coconut, Mango, Pink Guava and Pomegranate. All flavors offer SPF 30+ protection, so your most sensitive skin is protected while you live and love in the sun.
Rimmel Oh My Gloss Oil Tint ($5.99 from Walgreens and Kmart): Rimmel's new Oil Tint lip gloss is, "an innovative tint-in-oil gloss formula" that is a blend of four precious oils. These moisturizing lip glosses offer a juicy pop of ultra-glossy shine that is non-greasy, non-sticks, and these sheer shades are ultra-lightweight on the lips. They offer the perfect amount of cushion for comfortable wear, and their colors are fresh and modern. These glosses have the fruity floral aroma for which the Rimmel lip products are known.
According to Rimmel,
The ingenious tint-in-oil system fuses pure pigments onto the lips for a radiant splash of juicy color. The formulation also features a shine flex polymer for a dazzling glossy finish. Your pout just got glossier and more kissable!
Rimmel The Only 1 Matte Lipstick ($7.79 from Walgreens and ASOS): I do not tend to gravitate toward mattes because I tend to prefer more dimension in my lipsticks, and because they are often drying– however, that is not this case with this formula. Rimmel The Only1 Matte Lipsticks offer the right amount of cushion for comfortable wear, and they boast considerable longevity with respect to wear-time. The three shades that I tested glide across the lips effortlessly, deposit color evenly and they neither feather, nor migrate. I found them surprisingly moisturizing for a matte formula, even after numerous applications throughout the day they never dried out my lips. These lipsticks have the fruity floral aroma for which the Rimmel lip products are known.
According to Rimmel,
Rimmel London The Only 1 Matte in Trendsetter which is the perfect blend of warm and cool tones. For that perfect graceless nude that glides on creamy and feels super comfortable on the lip as well. The lipstick revolution goes matte! Rimmel London introduces The Only 1 Matte Lipstick, a new-generation, all-in-one matte lipstick that delivers long-lasting, non-drying colour, moisture and wear. It’s Matte lipstick that lets you have it all in one. No compromise.
Formula Features:
Rimmel is powering the matte revolution with a new volatile hybrid formula that’s been specially developed to meet your every lipstick need.
Comfort & Moisture: A light emollient oil is combined with a liquid polymer to provide the comfortable, moisturizing feel throughout wear. Feels so good!
Non-Drying: The oil is absorbed on application, creating a thin film between the skin and the pigment and banishing that irritating dry sensation often felt with matte lipsticks.
Long-Lasting Color: The formula features volatile silicon to give a smooth and even colour release, which helps to set the lipstick for superior colour wear.
Available In 10 New Matte Shade:Leader of The Pink, Call The Shots, Salute, High Flyer, Take The Stage, Keep It Coral, Trendsetter, Look Who's Talking, Run The Show and The Matte Factory
Overall Assessment: Add some sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and lots of water and snacks, and you are ready to go!
If you want get or give something less cliché than a box of chocolate this Valentine's Day, then why not try fabulous beauty finds! Whether you plan on spending the holiday with your sweetheart, friends or at home, there are ways to make the day fun with fun beauty picks.
AQUIS Lisse Luxe Hair Turban ($30.00 for Regular Pattern $40.00 for Waffle Pattern from Sephora): AQUIS Lisse Luxe Hair Turbans are ultra-soft, super absorbent and very luxurious! The convenient button and loop closure makes this luxury hair turban easy to use and quite convenient. AQUIS improves absorbency and comfort, but it also dries fast, with less friction, and therefore minimizes frizz and damage.
Conair Detangling Cushion Brush ($5.99 from Target and other mass retailers nationwide): Conair’s Detangling Cushion Brush easily and effortlessly glides through wet or dry hair without snagging or pulling. It can be used on straight, curly or thick hair, and the bristles will not pull hair.
Rhinestone, Ribbon, and Metal Flower Choker Headwraps ($12.99 each from Ulta): Ulta has a large selection of pretty hairbands that can also be worn as chokers. They come in a variety styles that are decorated with rhinestone, ribbon, and and metal flowers. They’re easily adjustable and perfect to add a pop of interest to your hairstyle or outfit.
DDF Glycolic 5% Exfoliating Wash ($39.00 for 6 oz. from DDF Skincare, Ulta and Skin Store): This lightly lathering gel cleanser features a 5% Glycolic Acid solution to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, remove dirt and debris, and to leave skin soft, smooth and radiant. Furthermore, it accomplishes all of this without stripping the skin.
According to DDF,
A liquid cleanser with 5% Glycolic acid to purify deep down to the pores and minimize the appearance of fine lines for smoother skin texture.
A combination of ultra-pure glycolic acid blended with skin conditioners to sweep away dirt and debris. Minimizes appearance of fine lines and look of pores while increasing overall skin radiance. pH balanced.
Key Benefits:
Lightly exfoliates skin with 5% ultra pure glycolic acid
Visibly minimizes look of fine lines
Purifies deep down to the pore
Smoothes skin's texture
Evens skin tone
Directions: Place a small amount of product in hands and add water. After washing with product, rinse thoroughly. Use once daily or as part of your cleansing regimen.
Warnings: For external use only. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a poison control center right away. Avoid contact with eyes. Discontinue use if signs of irritation develop.
Sunburn alert: This product contains an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure whileusing this product and for a week afterwards.
Lumene VALO Glow Boost Essence ($21.99 for 3.4 oz from Ulta, Walgreens and CVS): This is a brightening, hydrating and thoroughly refreshing mist spray that leaves skin luminous and silky smooth. It has a light citrus aroma that is pleasant without being overpowering.
According to Lumene,
Water and light, hydration and glow, beautiful combinations are the foundation of this miracle water. Cloudberry extracts and brightening vitamin C team up in our newly formulated brightening technology, which instantly enlivens fatigued and dull-looking skin. Uniquely pure Arctic Spring Water and moisture preserving hyaluronic acids increase skin hydration, giving you smoother, more radiant- looking skin. Enjoy the radiance of natural Arctic beauty.
MALIN+GOETZ Votive Set ($46.00 Set of Three 2.35 oz. Candles and $18.00 each from Malin+Goetz, Barneys New York and Bloomingdale's): Malin+Goetz makes fantastic candles that are a beautiful, eco-friendly blend beeswax, vegetable and soy waxes, and this blend assures a cleaner, better burn. They have a variety of popular scents from their best-selling Dark Rum, to their Vetiver, Mojito and Tobacco aromas. Whether purchased in a set of three or individually– they are great to adorn your house, or to give as gifts. Overall Assessment: A lovely way for a pampered Valentine's Day!
New Year's Eve is one of the biggest nights of the year when it comes to getting dressed up for parties and merry-making. If you are going out, and are planning on planning on putting some concerted effort into your hair style, then here are a few tools that you might want in your arsenal.
Xtava 5-in-1 Satin Wave Curler ($65.00-$104.45 from Xtava, Walmart and Amazon): If you use a curling iron to achieve anything from loose beachy waves to tight curly ringlets, then you need a good curling iron to do the trick. Whether you seek an updo, a chic top knot or the controlled chaos of a full head of gorgeous tight ringlets, then a versatile curling iron is likely what you seek. The Xtava 5-in-1 Satin Wave Curler has 5 detachable wands of varying sizes that can achieve any of your hair curling needs.
According to Xtava,
Whether you want to wear your hair in tight ringlets or beachy waves, there is a barrel for every curl achievable. Who says you can’t have it all? The Satin Wave 5-in-1 Curling Iron lets you style your hair in a variety of ways with just one iron. Each of the interchangeable, ceramic and tourmaline barrels creates every type of silky, frizz-free curl a girl could want.
A curling iron may be a multi-functional hairstyling tool, but that doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily a one-size-fits-all kind of tool to have. Luckily, curling irons are becoming much more accommodating since not everyone wants a tool whose single purpose is to give you Todders In Tiaras ringlets. To wit: size matters. A good rule of thumb is that the wider the barrel, the more waves you’ll be creating than curls.
Directions and Tips:
For tight ringlets: "Choose a barrel size that’s less than an inch wide. The way you wind hair matters too — you want to keep the coils closer together like a wound-up spring. When you release, you’ll see that the hair bounces out like a Slinky, holding the curls tightly. When releasing from the curling iron, hold the curl in place to let it cool for a couple seconds so it sets. Hairspray is key to hold these babies together."
For romantic Jane Austen novel curls: "Generally a one-inch barrel will do the trick for most hair lengths that are shoulder-length and longer. You can still use this for shorter hair but you’ll get less curl crests per section. Keep those hair sections coiled tightly and close together around the barrel for very long hair, since your hair’s length will weigh it down upon release. Separate the curls with fingers and set with a flexible hold hairspray."
For Glamour Waves: "Depending on your hair length you can achieve this with a one-inch or one and a half-inch barrel. The trick with this one is to wrap hair sections all in the same direction and try to coil them the same way to achieve a uniform curl. The key: when you’ve done your whole head, gently brush out the curls with a boar bristle brush to smooth everything into a sheet of undulating Rita Hayworth waves. For fine hair, give your hair a once over before and after brushing out so you don’t lose too much texture from brushing."
For lived-in textured waves: "Grab your one-inch barrel for this one — larger, if your hair is super long. One make-or-break tactic for perfecting this look is to leave the ends out. Curled ends tend to look much more coiffed and “done.” Using your curling iron or wand, wrap small hair sections, but not coiled closely together. Now this takes a bit of trial and error depending on your hair thickness and length, but generally less than five seconds does the trick. So does alternating the direction you curl. You don’t have to be too on it with allowing the curl to cool and set before releasing since you want it to unfurl a bit."
Xpert Tip: "When you have a head of loose curls, you can use a dry texture spray or rub some styling cream/oil in your hands and run your fingers through the waves to break them up."
Features:
– 5 interchangeable ceramic barrels
– 360° swivel cord (8 ft)
– 9 heat settings between 250ºF-410ºF
– Ceramic tourmaline technology
– Includes heat-resistant glove + travel bag
Head Kandy Brush Straightener ($59.99-$84.99 from Head Kandy and Amazon): This is such an innovative design for a hair straightener, and it is so easy to use. The brush paddle is wide enough to cover a wide area of hair, and it cuts down the amount of time that it takes to straighten your tresses.
According to Head Kandy,
The paddle of the brush is wide enough for short hair but also PERFECT for longer lengths as it covers enough of the hair as you brush through to straighten and really eliminate having to run through your hair multiple times as with other tools. in turn eliminating heat damage.
Head Kandy heats up to that coveted 450 degrees that we all know and love so you know your hair will come out beautifully straight and it can also be used for high heat keratin treatments.
Hot Tools Cool Tools 1 ¼ Inch Conditioning Vapor Flat Iron ($59.99-$71.99 from JCPenney, Amazon and Ulta): If you seek a more traditional flat iron to straighten your hair, then the Cool Tools Conditioning Vapor Flat Iron is worth your consideration. It includes its Argan Conditioning Treatment and Thermal Protectant that will leave your hair noticeably soft and protected.
According to Hot Tools,
Smooths and strengthens your hair with a Nano Ceramic® surface that emits far-infrared heat to eliminates frizz. Patented Pulse Technology® restores heat immediately for consistent, even styling. The amazing Argan Conditioning Treatment and Thermal Protectant formula works wonders for your hair. It is both a conditioning treatment and thermal protectant.
All Caps Shower, Sleep, Spa ($52.00 from All Caps Hair and their All Caps Shower, Sleep, Spa Official Amazon Page): All Caps is not your grandmother's shower cap by any stretch of the imagination. Not only will this protect your blow-outs or perfectly articulated curls while you are in the shower, but simply reverse it when you are using oil treatments and deep masking/conditioning.
According to All Caps Shower, Sleep, Spa:
What if you could take that fabulous, salon-fresh blowout and make it last forever? OK, that’s practically impossible, but a solid week will do, right? Dodge the shower droplets, hide from the humidity and wake up like a sleeping beauty with a perfect coif still in place by taking cover with All Caps. More than a traditional shower cap, All Caps satisfies all of your beauty needs from bathing and hair mask treatments, to protecting against spray tans and preserving those costly salon blowouts. The soft, flexible cap easily adjusts to the size of your head and length of your hair for a more comfortable, customizable fit. An innovative fabric technology protects hair in the shower, at the spa and in bed. The reversible design keeps clothes, furniture, pillowcases and other surfaces mess-free while doing hair masks and other restorative treatments. Unlike your old school shower caps, All Caps is fungus-resistant and completely machine washable.
To Maintain Your Blowout:
· Place the cap on your head with the microfiber terry band and buttons centered on your forehead, then pull the back of the cap down toward the nape of the neck.
· Sweep and tuck hair into the cap.
· Adjust the sides of the back of the cap so that it fully covers the hairline.
· Pinch the side toggles and pull the elastic cords to secure a custom, comfortable fit.
· If desired, hook the top elastic loops onto the front button to lift the back of the cap off the neck. To pull the cap farther off the neck, wrap the loops around the buttons to create the desired cap length.
All Caps Shower, Sleep, Spais:Hypoallergenic, Fungal-Resistant, Adjustable, Sustainable, Reversible for Masking, Machine Washable, Reusable Travel Case, Made in the USA.
AQUIS Lisse Luxe Hair Towel ($30.00 from AQUIS, AQUIS Official Amazon Store and Sephora): I have favored using hair towels and turbans, over regular bath towels, for many years, but AQUIS is definitely my very favorite brand for both. Their Lisse Luxe Hair Towel is extra large (19"x50"), ultra-luxurious, very plush, unbelievably soft, it is ultra-absorbent.
According to AQUIS,
Lisse Luxe may sound like the name of an ‘exotic’ artiste. But she’s the perfect towel for normal hair. Lisse Luxe also excels at curly hair, fine hair, damaged hair and any hair that needs gentle treatment. New generation Aquitex improves absorbency and comfort. Wraps and tucks easily leaving hands free while hair dries. Dries fast with less friction, to minimize frizz and damage.
According to AQUIS, The all around gentleness of Lisse Luxe. With the convenience of an easy to fasten turban. Great for curly and delicate hair needing the gentlest treatment. New generation Aquitex improves absorbency and comfort. Wraps and fastens easily leaving hands free while hair dries. Dries fast with less friction, to minimize frizz and damage.
Overall Assessment: If you are looking for new hair styling tools, then these are picks worthy of your consideration. Even if you don't heat stay your hair, the All Caps shower cap and AQUIS hair towels and turbans are great to pamper your hair.
