I recently received an email from a longtime reader who was seeking an affordable beauty oil that she could rotate with her favorite ultra-luxe face oil so that she wouldn't have to replace it quite as often. As luck would have it, when she reached out I was already a few weeks into testing the new Burt's Bees Complete Nourishment Facial Oil, and without hesitation told her that it was definitely worth trying. That it is affordable is rather obvious– particularly when compared to its luxury counterparts, but it is also an impressive facial oil on its own.
Burt's Bees Complete Nourishment Facial Oil boasts a lightweight texture that is fast absorbing, without leaving behind an oily residue, and it immediately delivers serious hydration. The antioxidant-rich blend of oils includes: Rosehip Seed Extract, Evening Primrose, Jojoba, Calendula, to name a few, and they deeply nourish and hydrate the skin, and leave it soft, smooth, supple and radiant. It has a mild and pleasant earthy aroma that is neither cloying, nor does it linger for too long.
According to Burt's Bees,
Introducing a concentrated blend of Rosehip, Jojoba and Evening Primrose that works like a serum to give skin a naturally powerful dose of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. In just one use, this anti-aging powerhouse leaves skin hydrated, smooth, and rejuvenated. When used over time, Burt’s Bees Complete Nourishment Facial oil has been clinically shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Features:
• All-day hydration leaves skin feeling smooth and supple
• Dermatologist tested
• Suitable for normal to dry skin
• 99.9% natural
Directions: Every morning and evening after cleansing, warm 2-3 drops of oil on fingertips, then tap onto face and neck to evenly distribute. Gently press or massage into skin until absorbed. Follow with your favorite moisturizer. Protect this product from excessive heat and direct sun.
Overall Assessment: This is a solid performer, it's a pleasure to use, and it very affordable. It is definitely worth giving a try if you love face oils, or have been trying to find an affordable one worthy of your attention.
Springtime is a wonderful time for renewal, and the perfect time to revamp the beauty products that we use. I love discovering new products this time each year, and wanted to share some amazing recent discoveries that are perfect for the season.
As the weather warms up, it is definitely important to tend to the changing needs of our hair. Therefore, I increase the frequency of deep masking to keep my hair especially nourished and. hydrated
Goldwell Kerasilk Color Intensive Luster Mask ($50.38 for 6.7 oz. fromFresh Fragrances, Strawberry Net and Salons): This mask was formulated to nourish, deep condition and moisturize color-treated hair. It not only adds much needed moisture, but it also increases the longevity of color treatments, and it offers hair a gorgeous luster. It has a very pleasant fragrance that is a bit difficult to describe.
Features:
Contains Keratin & Tamanu Oil to actively interact with hair's structure.
Helps deeply condition & moisturize hair.
Provides long-lasting color depth & brilliance
Blended with color caring silk to protect color from fading out
Hair appears shinier & healthier looking
Directions: Apply to wet or towel dried hair. Leave on for 5-10 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
Goldwell Kerasilk Reconstruct Restorative Balm ($29.99; Salons Nationwide): Formulated for stressed and damaged hair, this lightweight balm nourishes hair, improves its elasticity, and protects it from breakage and dryness. Simply apply it to towel-dried or dry hair, and leave in. The result is silky smooth hair, and a side benefit is that it tames my frizzies. There is a very faint, pleasant aroma that fades soon upon application.
According to Goldwell,
Formulated with Keratin, lightweight silk and the protective skincare ingredient Hyaloveil™, this nourishing, healing balm improves hair elasticity while also protecting it from breakage, dryness and other common forms of damage.
Directions: Apply to towel dried or dry hair. Leave in. Avoid contact with eyes.
Features:
• With Keratin and Hyaloveil™.
• For stressed and damaged hair.
• Improves hair elasticity and prevents dryness and hair breakage.
• Provides heat protection.
Burt's Bees Eye Makeup Remover Pads with Kiwi Extract ($6.00 for 35 pads from Burt's Bees, Target, Walgreens, Ulta, Amazon and Walmart): These makeup removing pads are one of my greatest recent discoveries, and I cannot sufficiently underscore the extent to which I love them! They effectively and effortlessly remove all of your makeup, they are very gentle on sensitive eyes. The pre-soaked pads, coupled with the textured surface of the pads themselves, facilitate easy, tug-free removal of everything including the most stubborn waterproof formulas.
According to Burt's Bees,
Stop tugging at stubborn eye-makeup, and start wiping away waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow the easy way. Burt's Bees Eye Makeup Remover Pads contain soothing Kiwi Extract and moisturizing actives perfect for delicate skin around the eyes, while easy-to use pads keep the mess to a minimum. Plus, it's non-irritating formula won't leave an oily residue. Thanks, nature.
Directions: Gently wipe pad over closed eyelids until all makeup is removed. No need to rinse. Use daily. Do not flush.
Features:
• Gently removes all traces of makeup, even waterproof mascara
• Kiwi Extract nourishes delicate skin around the eyes
• No oily residue
• No need to rinse
• 35 eye makeup remover pads
Molton Brown Comice Pear & Wild Honey Hand Cream ($15.00 for 1.4 oz. from Molton Brown, Blue Mercury, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Harrods): Molton Brown is unquestionably one of my favorite luxury body care brands, and their hand creams have long ranked among my all-time favorites. Their limited edition Comice Pear & Wild Honey Hand Cream has an utterly delectable aroma of honeyed pears that is otherworldly, and perfect for the season. The nourishing formula deeply moisturizes, conditions and soothes dry skin– leaving it soft, smooth and supple.
The notes:
• Top note: gardenia.
• Heart note: pear.
• Base note: biscuit.
• Extract: honey.
According to Molton Brown,
A luxuriously moisturizing hand cream balancing aromas of honeyed comice pears with the fresh notes of gardenia and sweet biscuit. Blended with Gloucestershire wild honey and featuring the luscious scent of plump comice pears in a harmonious aroma, this soothing hand cream leaves skin nourished and deeply hydrated.
Le Couvent des Minimes Everyday Deodorant with Alum Stone ($13.50 for oz. from Le Couvent des Minimes, Amazon and Ulta): This lovely roll-on deodorant, which is alcohol-free and aluminum chlorohydrate-free, effectively and gently combats odors while remaining gentle on the skin. The essential oils of Blood Orange, Lemon and Mandarin have a wonderfully refreshing citrus aroma that helps eliminate odors.
Features:
• Alum Stone: natural deodorant that prevents bad odors
• Essential oils of Blood Orange, Lemon and Mandarin: refresh and curb perspiration odors
• Essential oil of Rosemary: purifies and cleanses
According to Le Couvent des Minimes, Stay joyful and fragrant all day with this refreshing, natural deodorant that neutralizes body odor. Containing Alum Stone, it will keep you smelling sweet without the use of parabens, harsh aluminum salts, drying alcohol or skin-restricting ingredients. Housed in a convenient roll-on bottle, the formula is easy for application on the go and is always safe and suitable for even the most delicate skin.
Senteurs d'Orient Tuberose Hammam Soap ($36.00 for 7.2 oz. from Senteurs d' Orient and Net-A-Porter): I have previously waxed poetic about the wonders of Senteurs d'Orient's truly amazing handcrafted luxury soaps (Reviewed HERE, HERE and HERE), and unsurprisingly feel equally effusive about their Tuberose Hammam Soap.
The Senteurs d' Orient Hammam soaps are is the most beautiful soaps imaginable. From the gorgeous design of the soap itself to the otherworldly aroma of the creamy, delectable Tuberose used to make this ultra-luxe bar– this is the perfect Tuberose soap in which to luxuriate. The rich and creamy lather gently cleanses the skin without stripping it, while the beautiful aroma delights the senses. This gorgeous soap is suspended on a rope– which allows it to effectively dry out between uses. This is the perfect Mother's Day gift, hostess gift, holiday gift or gift for yourself, and I assure you that the recipient will be thrilled by this gorgeous gem of a soap.
According to Senteurs d'Orient,
Our signature Hammam Soap on a rope captures the Orient's most treasured flowers and senses to transport your mind while softening and nourishing your skin. Turn your bathing ritual into a luxurious, holistic experience with our signature Hammam soap. Each pure vegetal soap is handcrafted by local artisans in Lebanon, air-dried for 10 days, and etched with Senteurs d'Orient's elegant filigree. A blend of precious essential oils, fine fragrance and moisturizing Olive oil, Vitamin E, Shea butter and Glycerin makes for beautiful, dewy skin and a relaxed spirit. Tuberose - also referred as the "Queen of the Night", a natural aphrodisiac, entices the warm sensuality of the Orient with its relaxing yet intense floral scent. Created with a blend of Ylang, Guaiac, Celery and Benzoin gum essential oils.
Made in our Beirut atelier from the finest natural ingredients, our luxurious products are lovingly handcrafted by artisans. Each of our fragrances captures the Orient’s most treasured flowers and senses to transport your mind and exalt your body.
SENTEURS D'ORIENT Hammam Soap Tuberose is formulated with Shea Butter, Olive Oil and Vitamin E to promote smooth skin. Also available in: Rose of Damascus Orange Blossom, Rose of Damascus and Amber.
SENTEURS D'ORIENT donates a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this soap toward the education of women in Lebanon.
Overall Assessment: I am absolutely smitten with these beauty finds, and cannot recommend them highly enough! Do you have any recent product finds that have been game-changers for you? Do tell!
As the weather continues to cool down, and you find yourself reaching for an emollient hydrating lip treatment– consider treating yourself to the delectable NEW Burt's Bees Ginger Spice Moisturizing Lip Balm. It really does smell like ginger snap cookies, but it is neither overpowering, nor does it smell artificial, and it definitely evokes the warmth of the holidays. It leaves lips remarkably soft, supple, silky smooth, and very hydrated. If this type of scent appeals to you, then I definitely recommend getting a few tubes of this gem of a lip balm. It's brand new– so it might take a little while before you find it on the shelves of your local drugstore, but it's definitely worth the wait! If you really love it, then I would suggest buying a few extras since it is only available for this season.
According to Burt's Bees,
The new Ginger Spice flavor will conjure up delicious thoughts of freshly baked ginger snap cookies with its spicy notes of ginger, cardamom, cinnamon and clove undercut by sweeter notes of butter cookie, marzipan and vanilla spun sugar. Only available this season, new Ginger Spice Moisturizing Lip Balm will keep your senses enveloped in warmth and your lips comforted and conditioned as the days grow cold.
Features:
• 100% Natural
• Moisturizing
• No parabens, phthalates, SLS or petrolatum
• Made with recyclable materials (#5 Polypropylene)
I have used Burt's Bees for so many years that I actually don't even remember when I started using their products– it feels as though I have been using Burt's Bees my whole life. I have so many favorites, but here are some of my current must-haves.
Burt's Bees Peach & Willow Bark Exfoliating Facial Cleansing Towelettes ($5.19 for 25 Pre-Moistened Towelettes from Burt's Bees, Ulta, Target and Macy's): These fantastic towelettes gently remove makeup, oil, dirt and dead skin cells without ever stripping the skin. I have to confess that there have been more than a few occasions when I was too tired to do my nightly skincare routine, and these wipes are able to clean my face in no time at all.
According to Burt's Bees,
Burt's Bees Peach and Willow Bark Facial Cleansing Towelettes remove makeup, cleanse, gently exfoliate and tone, all in one face wipe designed for normal to dry skin. Peach refreshes, while willow bark, a natural source of salicylic acid, helps remove dead skin cells. Gentle enough for everyday use, these cleansing cloths leave skin feeling smooth and revitalized. Just pull a towelette out of the pack, wipe and you're done. No rinsing is necessary, so you can use these makeup remover wipes anytime, anywhere. They're 99.2% natural, dermatologist tested and contain no parabens, phthalates or petrolatum. Give your skin the best nature has to offer with Burt's Bees.
Features:
• 25 count pack of 99.2% natural towelettes for normal to dry skin
• Contains willow bark, a source of exfoliating salicylic acid
• Removes dirt, oil and makeup in one step without rinsing
• Cleansing cloths contain no parabens, phthalates or petrolatum
Burt's Bees Vanilla Bean Lip Balm ($3.29 for 0.15 oz. from Burt's Bees, Ulta, Target and Macy's): I have so many Burt's Bees Lip Balms, and in a wide variety of flavors, and they are so beloved that I have them stashed everywhere imaginable. In fact, I always have several on me at any given time. Their Vanilla Bean Lip Balm is very moisturizing, and the Shea Butter and Vitamin E condition, soften and hydrate my lips immediately, and they heal chapped lips very quickly. The light vanilla flavor is very pleasant, and not too sweet, and it does fade quickly.
According to Burt's Bees,
Burt's Bees Lip Balm, Vanilla Bean, helps lips feel their best with an added dash of vanilla bean flavor. This 100% natural lip balm is made with beeswax and other beneficial ingredients, which help leave your lips feeling conditioned and hydrated. It is also free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and SLS, and fits perfectly in your purse, backpack or pocket. Spread on a little TLC with Burt's Bees moisturizing lip balm.
Features:
• Nourishes with Shea Butter and Antioxidant Rich Vitamin E
• Made with beeswax and other beneficial ingredients
Burt's Bees Coconut & Pear Lip Balm ($3.29 for 0.15 oz. from Burt's Bees, Ulta, Target, Walgreens and Macy's): I love coconut scented body products, and I completely fell in love with this ultra-nourishing lip balm! The coconut scent is tempered by pear, and this combination is the most enticing, subtle tropical aroma. This gem of a lip balm leaves my lips silky smooth and soft, and perfectly hydrated. It is one of my go-to lipstick bases as well!
According to Burt's Bees,
Burt's Bees Lip Balm helps lips feel their best with an added dash of coconut and pear flavor. This 100% natural lip balm is made with vitamin-rich pear juice extract and creamy, hydrating coconut oil. Its light formula, with shea butter, makes lips feel soft, replenished and healthy. It is also free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and SLS, and fits perfectly in your purse, backpack or pocket. Spread on a little TLC with Burt's Bees moisturizing lip balm.
Features:
• 100% natural
• Hydrates with Coconut Oil and Pear Extract
• Sweet tropical flavor
• Made with tropical superfruit, naturally conditioning beeswax and hydrating butters
• Coconut and pear natural flavors
• No parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and SLS
Ingredients: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cera Alba (Beeswax, Cire D'abeille), Aroma (Flavor)*, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Lanolin, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Ammonium Glycyrrhizate, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Canola Oil (Huile De Colza), Linalool, Limonene, Geraniol. *Natural Flavor.
Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm ($ from Burt's Bees, Ulta, Walgreens and Macy's): This is a definite Burt's Bees classes balm, and in addition to being exceedingly hydrating and nourishing, it boasts a refreshing light peppermint scent that lightly tingles the lips.
According to Burt's Bees,
Burt's Bees Lip Balm, Beeswax, 2 Count is Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm original, 100% natural lip conditioner that has been soothing dry, lips since 1991. Beeswax and antioxidant vitamin E condition skin for a soothing lip treatment. A final hint of peppermint oil provides a refreshing tingle. The result is a smooth, supple smile everyone will be buzzing about. Each lip balm tube in this convenient 2 pack fits in your purse or pocket for dry lip therapy anytime, anyplace. Spread on a little TLC with Burt's Bees moisturizing lip balm.
Burt's Bees Finally a Lipstick in Sunset Cruise ($8.99 for 0.12 oz. from Burt's Bees, Ulta and Target): If you are seeking a healthy lipstick that is available in beautiful colors, and that is affordable, then Burt's Bees has a beautiful range of lipsticks (available in 14 shades). They are non-drying, comfortable on the lips and they have a beautiful satin finish.
According to Burt's Bees,
Enhance your lips with natural tones and vibrant lip colors. Made with Moringa Oil, derived from a drought-resistant tree in tropical regions and Red Raspberry Seed Oil, known for containing high levels of essential fatty acids. These and other ingredients deliver the moisturizing benefits to Burt's Bees Lipsticks, helps to soften and condition your lips. The lipstick is 100% natural. No one knows color better than nature, and nobody knows natural lip color better than Burt's Bees.
Intense -xx - color meets conditioning 8-hour moisture. Full-coverage, vibrant color in 14 shades made with 100% naturally moisturizing ingredients like moringa and raspberry seed oils to help soften and condition your lips all day long.
Benefits:
• 8-hour moisture
• 100% Natural
• 14 versatile shades deliver luscious, bold color
• Smooth, satin finish
• Doesn't dry out lips
• Helps to hydrate and moisturize lips leaving them feeling soft and smooth
• Features naturally moisturizing ingredients such as Beeswax, Moringa Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, and Vitamin E
Burt's Bees Finally a Lipstick in Sunset Cruise is a pretty coral shade with buildable coverage.
Burt's Bees Radiance Body Lotion with Royal Jelly ($7.99 for 6 oz. from Burt's Bees, Target, Walgreens and Macy's): If you love lightly shimmering body oils or lotions, then this luxuriously rich, yet lightweight and fast absorbing, body lotion deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin and the natural mica leaves behind a soft luminosity. It has a pleasant and light fruity-floral aroma that fades soon upon application.
According to Burt's Bees,
Natural radiance. You’ve got it; now time to set it free. Our rejuvenating body lotion is formulated with Royal Jelly, one of nature’s most nourishing substances. In our natural lotion we add Sunflower Oil and Aloe to moisturize and Mica, a light-reflecting mineral, to enhance skin tone. The result is soft, shimmering skin you’ll love to live in. Loaded with nutrients in just one little drop. That's what you get with Royal Jelly, another gift from our fantastic friends: the bees. A regal dose of Amino Acids, Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, D & E, along with Niacin and Folic Acid.
Features:
• Nourishes with Royal Jelly
• Enhance skin tone with Natural Mica
• Softens skin with Sunflower Oil and Aloe
Overall Assessment: You really can't go wrong with Burt's Bees products, and this cruelty-free company has something for everyone on your holiday list. Their products also make perfect stocking stuffers!
As one with a penchant for tinted lip balms, I feel that it is my duty to reach all of you like-minded people to tell you that you really should try at least one of the Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balms. They feel super creamy and moisturizing on the lips, impart a luscious wash of color with light-capturing luminosity, and can be applied without the aid of a mirror.
Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balms are filled with antioxidant-rich anti-aging ingredients that nourish and hydrate the lips while softening the appearance of fine lines and improving the overall texture of the skin. They are, in a word, wonderful.
According to Burt's Bees,
For just a hint of color and 8 hours of moisture. The Botanical Waxes in these softly tinted balms will take your lips to lovely in one pretty swipe. They come in a range of 6 naturally flattering shades.
A natural fat, Shea Butter comes from the fruit of the Karite tree. Moisture-rich and oh-so nourishing, it leaves your skin feeling soft and super supple. Helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and making a great anti-aging treatment that can help improve your skin’s elasticity. Hard work really does pay off.
Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Olus (Vegetable Oil, Huile Vegetale), Cera Alba (Beeswax, Cire D'abeille), Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Candelilla Cera (Euphorbia Cerifera Wax, Cire De Candelilla), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Aroma (Flavor)*, Lanolin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Cananga Odorata Flower Wax, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower Wax, Ammonium Glycyrrhizinate, Tocopherol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Canola Oil (Huile De Colza). May Contain: Alumina, Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Ci 75470 (Carmine), Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499 (Iron Oxides). *Natural flavor.
• 8-hour moisture
• Adds a hint of natural color
• Nourishes with Shea Butter and Botanical Waxes
• Available in 6 sheer shades
Left to Right: Pink Blossom, Hibiscus, Red Dahlia and Zinnia
Overall Assessment: If you love a good lip balm, then you really should try these.
I have never really been one to use full coverage foundations, and have always naturally gravitated toward lighter coverage foundations, tinted moisturizers and BB creams. I like for my skin to show through, and prefer a natural finish. Therefore, I was very excited to try the new Burt's Bees BB Cream as soon as I learned about its launch, and thought that you would be very interested to learn about this high quality gem that is also very affordable.
Burt's Bees BB Cream with Noni Extract SPF 15 is a lightweight moisturizing BB Cream that offers the coverage of a light to medium coverage foundation or tinted moisturizer, and a natural finish that enhances and perfects the appearance of skin while allowing it to show through. The antioxidant-rich formula provides the skin with wonderful long-lasting hydration while smoothing and evening skin tone. It has a lovely creamy consistency that feels great on the skin, and it leaves behind a slight, natural luminosity. While it does contain sunscreen, it is an SPF 15– therefore, I still use an additional sunscreen with a higher sun protection factor since I live in Los Angeles, and require more protection.
Burt's Bees BB Cream with SPF 15, marries makeup and moisturizer in a light, natural formula. This cream possesses the essence of the noni plant, known for being rich in antioxidants and moisturizing properties. This cream is clinically shown to even skin tone while moisturizing. It protects the skin from sun damage with SPF 15 and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with a light tone base. It also visibly firms, conceals, smooths, illuminates and perfects skin.
Claims:
• 98.9% natural
• SPF 15 protection
• Firms, conceals, smooths, perfects, and illuminates skin
• Evens skin tone and visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Available in 3 Shades: Light, Light/Medium and Medium.
I could have probably just as easily used the lightest shade, but Light/Medium also works for my skin, and will probably be a better match during the summer months. It appears a bit too warm and dark for me in the tube, but once it melts into my skin it looks natural on my skin.
Active Ingredients (Light Shade): Titanium Dioxide 5.3% and Zinc Oxide 7.0%
Active Ingredients (Light/Medium and Medium Shades): Titanium Dioxide 4.7% and Zinc Oxide 7.0%.
Overall Assessment: If you love a good BB Cream, then you definitely should consider Burt's Bees BB Cream with Noni Extract SPF 15! Great quality and affordable, you just can't go wrong. The only thing that I would like to see is an expanded range of shades since there are many people who are both lighter and darker than the 3 shades available.
Nowhere is it more obvious that the music festival season is upon us than on a university campus, and many of my students are currently planning their pilgrimage to Coachella. I have been to my fair share of music festivals, and it definitely pays to plan ahead and pack things that you will reach for throughout the day.
Given the wild popularity of tousled beachy-waves, and that consummate bohemian-chic vibe, that is sought after during music festivals and the summer– I thought that I would include a few hair styling products to use before heading to the festival.
InStyler Max Rotating Iron ($99.99 from InStyler Max, K-Mart, Target, Ulta and Bed, Bath & Beyond): The Instyler Max Rotating Iron is a wonderful tool that will straighten, curl, style and polish your hair effortlessly. It combines the rotating barrel of a curling iron with a brush on the opposite side, and the result is a remarkably effective and innovative multitasking hair styling tool. If you are seeking a stunning beach-wave, then this is a good tool choice.
MAX Feature Highlights: • Straight sleek styles, soft curls and beachy waves • 2-Way heated rotating barrel smooths and polishes as it styles • Black tourmaline ceramic curved smoothing plate smooths without crushing, flattening or damaging hair • Four heat settings up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit • Removable cool tip • 30 second rapid heat-up and auto safety shut-off
HAIR STYLING PRODUCTS:
If you go to all of the trouble to give yourself a beach-wave, then you definitely will want some styling products to extend the life of your wavy tresses. Here are a few affordable drugstore finds that get the job done.
Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Envy Perfect Curl Cream ($7.99 for 6 oz. from Ulta, Drugstore.com and Walgreens): This brilliant styling cream controls frizz, enhances curls and waves, and adds gorgeous shine. I reach for this all of the time, and consider it among my favorite styling products for curly hair. Furthermore, the formula is lightweight and non-sticky, and it adds moisture.
Marc Anthony Kinky Girls with Wild Curls Exotic Oil Treatment ($4.98 for 1.69 oz. from Bed, Bath & Beyond): This lightweight oil defines curls and waves, smoothes out fly-aways and frizz, and adds moisture to hair. It also blocks humidity and leaves hair hydrated. I use this all of the time, and think that it stands up against its luxury counterparts. Just add a few drops to your damp or dry hair and style as usual.
Schwarzkopf Satin Frizz Control & Protect Wax Powder ($6.97 for 0.35 oz. from Walmart and Amazon): This powder was developed for frizzy and unruly hair. The weightless formula tames fly-aways, but doesn't leave hair dull, tangled and chalky looking.
Schwarzkopf Biotin Volume & Texture Magic Volume Powder ($6.97 from Walmart and Amazon): This lightweight powder adds texture and volume without a gritty powdery buildup, and without dulling shine. It was specially formulated for fine, limp hair that needs some added life.
Schwarzkopf Crystal Shine & Hold Transparent Polishing Pomade ($6.52 for 2 oz. from Walmart and Amazon): If you love a strong hold pomade that offers remold able styling without stiffness or flaking, then this is a sure bet. According Schwarzkopf, the "specialized polishing formula infused with liquidized crystals."
Schwarzkopf Elastin Curls & Moisture Soft Tousle Spray ($6.97 for 6.8 oz. from Walmart and Amazon): I am thoroughly obsessed with Styliste Ultime Elastin Curls & Moisture Soft Tousle Spray because it accentuates the shape of my curls, and it offers good hold without making hair feel crunchy or filled with product.The weightless formula gives hair a natural texture, and accentuated gorgeous tousled waves and controlled curls. It has a light and pleasant scent that dissipates instead of lingering all day.
John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver Mousse ($5.27-$5.99 for 7.2 oz. from Drugstore.com, Ulta and Target): This creamy and moisturizing mousse boosts and rejuvenates curls and waves, and gives them touchable hold. The formula is alcohol-free, and non-sticky, and fights frizz and leaves hair shiny. Furthermore, John Frieda asserts that this mousse contains a UV inhibitor that is known to protect against damaging rays.
got2be beach tripping salt-infusion waving spray ($5.99 for 6.8 oz. from Walgreens and Amazon): This beach-wave spray was conceived to create "that alluring mermaid look you crave with textured, wind-blown, voluminous waves and tousled beachy tresses. Natural salts infuse a deliciously rough texture and piecey waves." The spray is lightweight and moisturizing, and it does not leave hair hard, clunky or flaky. Simply spray it onto damp or dry hair evenly and scrunch or tousle-style as desired.
SUNSCREENS & MOISTURIZERS:
Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Lotion Sunscreen ($9.99 for 5.1 oz. from Ulta and Amazon): This is an ultra moisturizing sunscreen that employs a "breakthrough dual ribbon formula" that combines strong SPF protection with a luxurious and hydrating silk protein to "wrap skin in continuous moisture and help you maintain luminous skin in the sun." It has a light tropical fragrance that smells refreshing.
Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch After Sun Moisturizer Ultra Radiance in Island Mango ($9.99 for 8 oz. from Ulta): This is a lovely deeply moisturizing lotion that leaves skin ultra radiant. It contains a blend of Shea Butter Complex and Mango Fruit Extract that leaves skin soft, supple and hydrated. Furthermore, the formula boasts light reflecting pigments to give skin a radiant glow. It has a lovely night tropical scent.
When used a directed, this broad-spectrum formula effectively screens 97% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB radiation. Trilipiderm protects against the drying, damaging and aging effects of the sun on skin, while it continues to keep skin soft and supple. All the benefits of Trilipiderm All-Body Moisture Retention Crème, now with sun protection and Vitamin D too.
Trilipiderm All-Body Moisture Retention Crème ($14.95 for 3 oz. from Trilipiderm): This all-body lotion deeply hydrates skin leaving it soft, smooth and supple. It can be used from head to toe, and it offers dry skin great relief.
According to Trilipiderm,
The active ingredients in Trilpiderm moisturize skin to help solve dryness and prevent its return. Natural ingredients mimic components of human skin structure to repair damaged skin. This unique formula forms a natural boundary to seal in moisture and reduce trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
NIOS SHIELD Whipped Hair Gel SPF 15 ($ for oz. from NIOS SHIELD): While we make every effort to slather ourselves in sunscreen, we tend to forget to add it to our hair, and this product offers sun protection for the hair and scalp. It is infused with Moroccan Argan Oil, Vitamin E, and Vitamin B5 to nourish the hair, and it leaves hair with a lovely shine. Furthermore, this styling gel offers medium-strong hold, and it "is formulated for styling short hair or for adding volume or hold to long hair."
ALL Good Coconut Sunstick SPF 30 ($8.99 for .6 oz. from All Good Products): This is a non-nano particle Zinc-Oxide based mineral sunscreen that is ideal for the face, nose, ears. This formula is filled with rich and ultra-hydrating certified organic oils, such as jojoba, coconut and avocado.
Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20% (Non-nanoparticle). Other Ingredients: Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba Seed) Oil*, Cera alba (Beeswax)*, Sesame indicum (Sesame Seed) Oil*, Copernicia cerifera (Carnauba) Wax*, Persea americana (Avocado) Oil*, Theobroma cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Coconut Flavor*, Tapioca Starch*, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea Butter)*, Mauritia flexuosa (Buriti) Fruit Oil*, Non GMO Tocopherol (Vitamin E).*Certified Organic to USDA/NOP Standards.
DEODORANT, FRAGRANCE & BLOTTING PAPERS:
Travalo Refillable Travel Atomizer ($9.99 from FragranceNet.com): If you are a frequent flyer tethered to TSA Compliant sizes for your toiletries, or you love to carry your favorite perfume in your purse Travalo offers chic refillable perfume atomizers that are attractive and easy to use. They are also a perfect gift for the perfume enthusiast in your life!
Swipe Single-Use Deodorant Wipes ($8.00 for 10 from Swipe and Urbanoutfitters): These are handy, ultra-portable, single-use disposable deodorant wipes. They are made with tea tree extract to deodorize. Each pre-moistened wipe is individually wrapped, and can stow away in your pocket.
LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Pure Vanilla ($14.00 for 1.7 oz. from LAVANILA, Sephora and Dermstore): I am a longstanding proponent of healthier deodorants, and have been using them since I was a teenager. Though I have occasionally used mainstream deodorants, I do prefer to avoid the chemicals. LAVANILA makes wonderful healthy deodorants that are effective and smell wonderful (though they also make an unscented variant for sensitive skin). Their Pure Vanilla scent is currently my very favorite because it smells utterly scrumptious, and offers long-lasting protection.
TATCHA Original Aburatorigami Blotting Papers ($12.00 for a single pack of 30 sheets (Size 3.74" x 3.74"). Available from TATCHA, Barneys New York, Sephora, Beauty.com, B-Glowing, Spirit Beauty Lounge, Bliss US and Skin Store): If you are a fan of facial blotting papers then if you have not already tried TATCHA'S Original Aburatorigami Blotting Papers– you really should put them on your list of things to try. The quality of these elegant blotting papers is astounding, and using them is nothing short of luxurious. These gorgeous gold leaf-laden Abaca Leaf works of art are more absorbent than any of the blotting papers that I have tried before. I have a fairly active t-zone, and when I do have the need to blot down the shine these papers remove all traces of oil and debris, and the effects last for many many hours. What's interesting is that these papers lift all of the excess oil without depleting the moisture level of my skin. Furthermore, my makeup stays put since they magically remove only what needs to be removed-- leaving everything else undisturbed. I have liked the other blotting papers that I have used in the past, but I actually love these. If you use blotting papers, then be forewarned that these are a true game changer in my estimation!
When it comes to long days frolicking in the sun, I think that a less is more approach to makeup is the best choice. The last thing that you need to do is feel compelled to repeatedly check your makeup. Instead choose natural looking products that impart a glow with light pigmentations, and that aren't prone to migration.
Hydrates instantly and improves hydration over time.
Primes so makeup goes on beautifully and stays put.
Protects with SPF 20 and contains an ingredient that helps guard skin against daily stress.
Perfects to instantly even out skin tone and minimize pores, lines, wrinkles and redness.
Treats to firm skin, improve elasticity and provide measurable anti-aging benefits.
Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow in Rio de Rose Gold ($18.00 for 0.16 fl. oz. from Josiemaran.com, Sephora and QVC): Rio De Rose Gold is a stunning shimmering rose gold liquid eyeshadow that actually moisturizes your eyelids while providing a gorgeous luminescent finish. This formal offers buildable coverage, but can be also be sheered out for a faint wash of color. Unlike many liquid eyeshadows that can feel drying once they set, this one feels comfortable of the eyelids. I am able to get 6-8 hours of wear before there is any fading, but I do not have oily eyelids– therefore your wear-time may vary. It can also be used as a luminzer anywhere you want to add a touch of sun-kissed luminous color. According to Josie Maran, 50% Coconut Water, 100% Hydration. Like a refreshing sip of coconut water for your eyes, this pigment-packed liquid shadow instantly makes eyes look and feel more hydrated. It has two layers: one layer of fresh Coconut Water, and one layer of Argan-infused pigments that instantly give eyes a more youthful appearance.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Coconut Lip Balm ($3.99 for 0.15 oz. from Sun Bum, Nordstrom, ULTA, Dermstore and Amazon): is a long-lasting and super moisturizing lip balm that leaves lips protected, soft and supple. It tastes and feels so good on the lips that you won't forget to reapply it frequently to keep your lips SPF protected.
Burt's Bees Lip Crayon in Carolina Coast($8.99 for 0.11 oz. at ULTA, Target and Amazon): Burt's Bees Lip Crayon's are available in six creamy, "full-coverage shades of matte lip color in a modern crayon for truly beautiful lip color." Carolina Coast is a lovely mid-tone pink nude.
Burt's Bees 100% Natural Lip Shine in Wink($6.99 for 0.5 oz. at ULTA, Amazon and Drugstore.com): The formula is non-sticky, enriching and moisturizing, and it provides a gorgeous shiny finish. While pink in the tube and the swatch, Wink imparts little color to the lips– however, what it lack in color it makes up for with its gorgeous shine.
S'well Water Bottles ($25.00-$45.00 each from S'well, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Birchbox, Shopbop, Athleta Gap, Anthropologie and The Container Store): are ingeniously made from BPA-free, double-walled stainless steel that is so well insulated that it keeps liquids cold for 24 hours, and hot for 12 hours. They are so well insulated that no matter how cold the liquid inside, there is absolutely no condensation outside. I purchased the 25 oz. size so that I wouldn't have to refill my bottle as frequently, but you might prefer the 17 oz. size because it a bit smaller to tote around. However, I definitely think that the 9 oz. is a little too small for the purposes of staying hydrated throughout the day. If you are going to be outdoors all day, I would definitely suggest getting the 25 oz. size to remain hydrated. What are your top picks for music festivals, longs days at the beach, or long days of fun in the sun?
