February 2021 Empties Galore!

Press Sample and Purchased (Affiliate Links)

Though February is a short month, I managed to use up quite a few products. However, you will note that I disproportionately used up products for the bath more than anything else, and that was largely because I took a lot of baths from December through February. It was cold at night, and after long days on Zoom I sought refuge in a nice therapeutic soak! Here are the products that I finished up in February. 

Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser ($12.00 for 1 oz., $37.00 for 4 oz and $45.00 for 6.76 oz from Suki, Amazon, Birchbox, iHerb and SkinStore): Years ago it was my only daily cleanser, and then I started LSBB and began using a far wider range of products and somehow forgot about who much I loved this gem of an exfoliating facial cleanser. The lovely formula, which has the intoxicating scent of organic lemongrass extract, uses natural sugar to exfoliate the dead skin cells leaving your skin soft and silky smooth. I find it non-stripping and non-drying for my normal/combination skin, but if you have dry skin you would likely want to use it less often. I like to activate the light lather in my hands, which also breaks down some of the sugar, then with the lightest touch I massage it into my skin and rinse thoroughly. I use it a few times a week, and I always look forward to it since it is such a delectable treat to the skin and the senses. Purchase Again? Without hesitation! 

VENeffect Firming Neck & Décolleté Creme ($155.00 for 2 oz. from VENeffect and Dermstore): is a rich and emollient, yet fast absorbing, luxurious cream that was specifically formulated to address the needs of the delicate skin of the neck and décolleté. It has a silky-smooth ultra luxurious texture that is rich enough to impart high levels of moisture, but it leaves behind no greasy residue. It is fragrance-free– therefore those among you with fragrance sensitivities can experience all of the benefits from this cream without being inundated by unwanted fragrance, and it also will not interfere with fragrances that perfume-wearers put on and around the neck and décolleté. Purchase Again? This is a really wonderful cream, but I have several others to use up before I consider buying another.

Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'N' Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Velvet Violet ($27.00 for oz. from Charlotte Tilbury, Sephora, Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale's, Beautylish, Selfridges, Cult Beauty and John Lewis): This is unquestionably one of my most used pencils, and it is one of the most perfect purple eyeliners that I have used. It can be built up for greater pigmentation and saturation, but it can also be worn more sparingly, and therefore less intensely. The formula is creamy and lush, and it doesn't irritate my sensitive eyes. Purchase Again? I already have!

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer ($32.00 from CharlotteTilbury, Nordstrom, Sephora, Bloomingdale's, Bergdorf Goodman, Beautylish, Cult Beauty, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, John Lewis and Net-A-Porter): The formula is lightweight, non-creasing and it adds just a touch of luminescence to optically blur imperfections, dark circles or blemishes without being glittery. It has a nice large spongy applicator tip, and a twist dispenser, but you want to be sure not to over twist otherwise you will waste a lot of product. I apply it right after my eye cream has absorbed, and only need a little to brighten under my eye area. On those days when I get little sleep, and awaken to unsightly dark circles, this concealer does an enviable job concealing them and in giving my eyes a radiant glow. It neither settles into fine lines, nor does it become cakey. Furthermore, it does not dry out the delicate skin under my eyes, and it lasts all day on me. It offers buildable coverage, if you desire added opacity to conceal blemishes or imperfections, and it blends out perfectly. Purchase Again? Absolutely!

Molton Brown Ylang Ylang Body Wash ($32.00 for 10 oz. from Molton Brown, Neiman Marcus, Amazon and Bluemercury): Described as, "Rich, Peaceful. Harmonious," this deep, royal purple body wash is utterly divine. The scent is an elegant, rich and musky Ylang-Ylang that fills the entire bathroom with its otherworldly aroma. It relaxes the mind and body, and leaves the skin silky-smooth and soft. It is, without question, one of my all-time favorite body washes, and it also works very well as a bubble bath. Purchase Again? Absolutely, I love their products, and this one is particularly special.

Mustela Nourishing Cleansing Gel with Cold Cream ($11.99-$14.00 for 10.4 oz. from Mustela, Amazon, Target and Walmart): One might imagine that the inclusion of cold cream would mean that this is a non-lathering cleansing gel, and yet it has the most satisfying creamy lather. It has the same pleasant, warm and creamy aroma, but it is neither cloying, nor too long lasting. It leaves skin soft, smooth, supple and hydrated, and it is never drying or stripping. Purchase Again? I already have another bottle! I am a huge fan of Mustela products, and will continue to purchase from them!

Nectar Bath Treats Bubble Scoops are ice cream scoop shaped bubble baths that are such a delight to use. They come in 7 different scents, of which I have 2 to share. their delectable aromas and luxurious bubble baths are a treat to the skin and the senses. While we are in the middle of the summer, and this may not seem like the perfect season to soak in a warm bubble bath, I have found the opposite to be true. Given that we are in the midst of a global pandemic, I find that anything that soothes my spirit and calms my nerves is quite welcome. I am grateful to have these wonderful bath treats right now, and I am thoroughly enjoying them!

Nectar Bath Treats Peachy Lemon Bubble Bath Scoop Sundae ($20.00 from Nectar USA): The peachy lemon aroma is absolutely delicious, and coupled with the hydrating and creamy bubbles this is such a treat to the skin and the senses. Skin is left soft, smooth and hydrated. Nerves are left soothed and calmed! Purchase Again? Just as soon as I used up my other bath products!

Nectar Bath Treats Lychee Hibiscus Triple Bubble Bath Scoop Sundae ($20.00 from Nectar USA): The sweet and warm floral aroma is so delicious that it embodies the idea of a warm summer breeze carrying floral essences. The rich and creamy lather moisturizes the skin and leaves it soft and smooth. Shut your eyes and enjoy every moment of this luxurious bubble bath, it is dreamy! Purchase Again? Once I finish up my remaining bath products!

Nectar Sparkling Lights Bath Bomb Set was a great holiday gift set that I thoroughly enjoyed. These fizzing bath bombs come in 6 delectable scents that fill the bathroom with their magnificent individual aromas. They were fun to use and they left my skin soft and hydrated. Purchase Again? I wish that I could, but this was a LE set for the holidays, but I managed to use to full boxes (12 bath bombs) between December and February.

Kneipp Joint & Muscle Herbal Arnica Bath Oil ($20.00 for 3.38 oz. from SkinCare RX): If you have sore muscles in need of relief, then this wonderful Arnica Bath Oil offers relief, and the added benefit is that skin is left soft and moisturized. The aromatic Rosemary, Pine and Arnica Oils are warming and uplifting. Purchase Again? I have too many bath oils to use before I purchase more.

Kneipp Relaxing Lavender Bath Oil ($16.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): If you love the aroma of Lavender Oil, then you will be over the moon when you envelop your senses with this calming bath oil. In addition to leaving the skin soft, smooth and hydrated, it leaves quiets the mind and calms the spirit, and for this reason I love using it right before going to sleep. Purchase Again? Eventually.

Aromatherapy Associates Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oil ($71.00 for 1.87 oz. from Space NK): is a delectable luxury bath and shower oil that has the soothing aroma of Rosemary punctuated by citrus and Eucalyptus. By simply adding a couple of caps to your bath, or massaging a few drops onto strategic zones of your body (torso, arms etc.) before stepping into the shower– your senses are enveloped by the many benefits of this otherworldly aromatherapeutic experience. It restores a sense of well-being, balances the bond and body, and soothes muscular tension. Purchase Again? At some point because this was such a luxe treat to use! 

Mustela Multi-Sensory Bubble Bath ($6.99- $20.00 for 6.76-25.35 oz. from Target, Amazon, Bed, Bath & Beyond, CVS and Walmart): This bubble bath is super hydrating and it very gentle on even the most sensitive skin. My skin is left clean, soft, smooth and pampered. It has a light and clean aroma that is very pleasant and relaxing, but it is not overwhelming in the least bit. Purchase Again? Definitely!

Olbas Herbal Bath ($9.49 for 4 oz. and $16.99 for 8 oz. from Olbas, and Swanson Health): If you have a cold, then using this in a hot bath will relief a lot of discomfort. It helps open up sinus passages, and gives yo an overall sense of wellbeing. This lovely Herbal Bath has a wonderful foam,  and its invigorating peppermint-eucalyptus aroma awakens the senses and helps to open up sinus passages. Furthermore, it soothes achy muscles and refreshes the senses. You definitely want to make sure to avoid contact with your eyes! Purchase Again? Possibly when I need more bath products.

Phytomer Oligomer Pure Lyophilized Sea Water Bath ($20.58 from Amazon and Phytomer): Phyomer suggests that this soak has "All the benefits of a dip in the ocean in your own home. An ideal opportunity to relax, re-balance and re-energize." I liked how relaxing this was right before bed. Purchase Again? I liked it a lot, but it will be a long time before I consider buying more bath products since I have so many to use up first. 

MaaDisha Neem Enriched Soap5 ($7.00 for oz. from MaaDisha): This is a holistic healing soap that is formulated with Neem and Holy Basil– known for their antibacterial prowess. It is also moisturizing and free of chemicals and artificial fragrances, and can be used on the face and body. I actually used it on my hands, and thoroughly enjoyed using it. Purchase again? I will definitely consider it once I finish up all of the soaps that I have.

Korres Pomegranate Soap: This glycerin-based antiseptic is perfect for people with oily skin, and can be used on the face and body. It never strips the skin, or leaves it taut, but instead leaves it comfortable and thoroughly cleansed. Purchase Again? I would, but I think that it has been discontinued.

Farmhouse Fresh Fluffy Bunny Shea Butter Hand Cream ($15.00 for 2 oz. from Farmhouse Fresh and Amazon): Oh what a lovely hand cream this is! It is rich, ultra-creamy and it effortlessly renders dry hands soft, supple and hydrated. The aroma is a hypnotic blend of mint julep and lavender, and it is utterly scrumptious! Purchase Again? it is at the top of my list after I finish up a few more hand creams.

Diptyque Roses Candle ($36.00-$68.00 for 2.4 oz. and 6.5 oz. from Nordstrom, Diptyque and Space NK): If you love the most refined rose candle imaginable, then you will gleeful the second you smell this gem. Purchase Again? Yes, again and again and again! I love everything about this fragrance and I already have another one that I am just about to light!

Soothe Blackberry Forest Candle ($32.99 from Amazon): Features notes of citrus, blackberry, strawberry, combined with hints of patchouli, amber and sandalwood, and it is an utterly divine soy candle that your mom is sure to treasure. The fruity aroma is tempered by the earthiness of the patchouli, amber and sandalwood, but the freshness and sweetness of the citrus, blackberry, strawberry mitigates the intensity and pungency of the the earthier notes. The end result is the perfect aromatic balance, and the lit its essence fills the air without being imposing or overdone. Purchase Again? Possibly, but I need to burn a few more candles before I can justify buying more.

COCOFLOSS ($9.00 each. Available at Sephora, Credo Beauty and goop): Cocofloss is a very effective dental floss that deeply cleans teeth and is gentle and soothing on the gums. It actually makes flossing something that I look forward to, and it is available in 4 coconut infused flavors: Delicious Mint, Pure Strawberries, Fresh Coconut and Cara Cara Orange. Purchase Again? I just opened another one, and I have an unopened one in reserve. I will definitely purchase more after I finish what I have.

Overall Assessment: I was surprised that I finished up as many bath products as I did, but it was cold and I was taking a lot of baths in February. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in February? Any great finds or duds to report?

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

Last Minute Fragrant Bath & Body Gifts for the Holidays

Press Sample / Purchased / Affiliate Links

The Makeup Wars! Team wanted to help you brainstorm last minute holiday gifts, and I decided to select fragrant bath and body products for the people on your list who love fragrances.

Kai Bathing Bubbles ($29.00 for 12 oz. from Barneys New York, Nordstrom, Revolve, Cult Beauty, Dermstore and Anthropologie): Kai's nourishing bubble bath has the wonderful aroma of fresh gardenias and white exotic flowers, for which Kai is known, and it leaves the skin soft, supple and hydrated. It is so luxurious to soak in this fetching scent.

Kai Perfume Oil ($48.00 for oz. from Barneys New York, Nordstrom, Beautyhabit, Revolve, Cult Beauty, Dermstore and Anthropologie): Kai's intoxicating perfume oil is a blend of fresh gardenias and white exotic flowers made with essential oils in a convenient and easy to use roll-on vial.

Kai is a fresh, clean, and sexy smelling floral. The blend of gardenias and white exotic flowers strikes the perfect balance, and the white flowers offset any sharpness that gardenia can have on its own. The scent lingers throughout the day and is so lovely that I can't stop smelling my wrist while wearing it.

Kai products are paraben, sulfate, phthalate free, cruelty free, and are not tested on animals. The packaging is recyclable. Made in the USA.

Kai Eau de Parfum ($76.00 for oz. from Barneys New York, Nordstrom, Beautyhabit, Revolve, Cult Beauty, Dermstore and Anthropologie): The Kai Eau de Parfum is a less concentrated version of the perfume oil, but it lacks the longevity. I prefer to layer the two together to make the aroma both richer and longer lasting. This is my second bottle, and definitely not my last.

Aromatherapy Associates Inner Strength Roller Ball ($24.50- $33.00 from Beautyhabit, Aromatherapy Associates, Look Fantastic, Mankind, HQ Hair, Beauty Expert and Coggles): This luxury aromatherapy roll on is a blend of essential oils such as Cardamom, Frankincense and Clary Sage that are supposed to, "give you a moment to reflect and restore positivity." I love the way that it smells, and its aroma puts me in a particularly good mood. It's the perfect size to stow in your handbag.

Kneipp Bath Bar Soft Skin Almond Blossom ($5.00 from Kneipp): This wonderfully aromatic bath bar is ultra gentle, non-stripping and it never dries out the skin. The nourishing plant-based formula and almond oil is emollient enough that I have shaved my underarms and legs with great results!

Kneipp Bath Oil Beauty Secret Argan & Marula ($22.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): Kneipp makes the most amazing bath oils, and they leave the skin so soft, supple and hydrated, but without leaving it greasy. In addition to the fantastic benefits for the skin,  the warm and creamy aroma is a treat to the senses.

Kneipp Body Oil Restoring Safflower & Olive ($22.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): This is an ultra rich, and yet exceedingly lightweight and fast absorbing body oil that leaves skin deeply moisturized, indescribably soft, supple and luminous. It has a very pleasant faint aroma with the slightest citrus notes.

Kneipp Body Oil Soft Skin Almond Blossom ($122.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): This lightweight, and fast absorbing, body oil intensely nourishes and hydrates the skin and leaves it soft, supple and luminous. The Vitamin E, Argan Oil and Sunflower Oil serve as a nutrient-rich base for this delectably aromatic floral treat for the senses and the skin.

Kneipp Bubbling Mineral Bath Salt Relax Iris & Geranium ($5.00 for 2.82 oz. from Kneipp): I haven't yet tried this packet, but I am excited to try it, and can't wait to smell it! According to Kneipp, the "valuable iris extract and natural essential oil of geranium provides the body and mind with a sense of well-being. Nourishing oil prevents your skin from drying out."

Kneipp is currently offering 40% OFF Your Entire Purchase now through December 25! Visit: www.kneipp.com

Artnaturals Signature Essential Oil Rollerball Collection ($29.00 from Artnaturals): If you have someone on your list who loves essential oils, then this set of 8 from Artnaturals is sure to delight them. Each of the essential oil signature blends is formulated in a base of nourishing Jojoba Oil, and conveniently has a rollerball applicator to avoid spills, and to offer easy application.

Fragrance Descriptions:

Signature Bliss: The sweet warmth of cinnamon and clove are exemplified in this nurturing rollerball blend. Signature Bliss boosts immunity and confidence while soothing tension and exhaustion.

Signature Chi: This gentle woodsy aroma possesses spicy undertones, which stimulates the mind and energizes the spirit. This vivacious blend also helps soothe headaches, and relieve respiratory congestion.

Signature Cleanse: A fruity aroma that uplifts and cleanses the soul. This blend helps increase circulation, and detoxify the body while keeping you grounded.

Signature Om:  Inhale the bold herbal essence of Signature Om and release all worry and stress. This blend helps strengthen and brings clarity to the mind as it combats depression.

Signature Relief:  The clean, minty fragrance of Signature Relief does just as its name implies. This rollerball blend helps increase circulation and aids in reducing inflammation and pain to joints and muscles.

Signature Serene: Calm your mind and unwind with the sweet and airy aroma of Signature Serene. This blend uplifts the mind and balances the body while it promotes better sleep and happiness

Signature Solace: The sweet and spicy aromas of Signature Solace supports weight loss efforts because it helps control hunger as it detoxifies. It also helps reduce pain, and helps prevent unhealthy food urges.

Signature Zen: Relax your body and elevate your mind with soothing Signature Zen. Its delicious aroma helps to reduce fear and anxiety while balancing all body systems.

Naples Soap Company Pure Paradise Body Oil ($18.00 for 6 oz. from Naples Soap Company): If you the love ideal love sweet tropical florals punctuated by warm and cream vanilla, then prepare to be transported! This is a lightweight and fast-absorbing body oil that moisturizes the skin and leaves it soft and supple. A combination of African Baobab and Coconut oils nourish and hydrate the skin, but leave behind no greasy residue.

Naples Soap Company Pure Paradise Salt Scrub ($28.00 for 9 oz. from Naples Soap Company): This sweet and delicious smelling salt scrub gently exfoliates dead skin cells, and reveals soft and radiant skin. While the sea salt is suspended Cottonseed Oil and Shea Butter, it doesn't leave the skin, or the bottom of the shower a greasy mess.

Natura Brasil Hand Cream Trio ($29.50 from Natural Brasil): This is a no-fail gift for anyone trying to stave off dry hands this winter. These hand creams are rich, creamy and ultra-hydrating– perfect for the season. Furthermore, the tube are the perfect size to toss in your handbag.

This set contains:

Maracuja Hand Cream (1.4 oz.): "Enriched with soothing Maracujá Oil, this lightweight but effective hand cream penetrates quickly to leave hands feeling soft and smooth, never greasy."

Castanha Hand Cream (1.4 oz.): "Enriched with Brazilian Castanha Oil and Murumuru butter, this extremely effective hand cream softens and smooths skin and provides a protective barrier against the elements. The rich texture absorbs quickly to leave hands feeling comfortable, not greasy."

Cacau Hand Cream (1.4 oz.): "Enriched with Brazilian Cacau and Murumuru Butters butters, this extremely effective hand cream softens and smooths skin and provides a protective barrier against the elements. The rich texture absorbs quickly to leave hands feeling comfortable, not greasy."

Overall Assessment: Whether you are looking for stocking stuffers, or something for under the tree, these are solid performers that smell delectable and are a real treat to use.

Please be sure to check out which products the other Makeup Wars! Team members selected by clicking on their badges below.

Press Sample & Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own (Affiliate Links).
Copyright © 2017 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

An InLinkz Link-up

Aromatherapy Associates London My Treat Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oil | Review #GiftGuide

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Aromatherapy Associates My Treat Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oil is a delectable luxury bath and shower oil that has the soothing aroma of Rosemary punctuated by citrus and Eucalyptus. By simply adding a couple of caps to your bath, or massaging a few drops onto strategic zones of your body (torso, arms etc.) before stepping into the shower– your senses are enveloped by the many benefits of this otherworldly aromatherapeutic experience. It restores a sense of well-being, balances the bond and body, and soothes muscular tension. The charming Christmas ornament gift box makes this a wonderful stocking stuffer for those hard-to-shop-for people on your holiday list!

According to Aromatherapy Associates London,

Using the purest natural ingredients, Aromatherapy Associates' blends of essential oils calm the mind, balance the emotions and ease strains and muscular tension in the body.

Experience the revitalizing power of nature and wake up to a refreshing blend of grapefruit and rosemary essential oils.

Perfect to use if you struggle with waking up in the morning, or if you are detoxing. Also helps to start your day with a positive frame of mind.

Directions: Indulge in bath time by adding two capfuls to your warm bath or massage a capful onto your torso, focusing on any areas of concern. Cup your hands, bring them to your face and inhale deeply 3 times. Step into a warm shower and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy.

Overall Assessment: This beautiful little bottle provides the perfect antidote to the frenzy of the holiday season, and it makes a great gift.

$17.00 for 9ml. from Space NK (Affiliate Links).
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2016 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.