How to Get Pretty Feet for Summer in Six Easy Steps

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If ever there was a time to get winter-worn feet in tip-top shape for the summer months, it would be now.   After much experimentation, I have finally found the Summer Ready Feet sweet spot with a few simple steps. Following these simple steps is remarkably easy and pleasant. The products that I have chosen are my favorites, and they are so lovely to use that they enhance the experience by offering lovely textures and aromas while I prep my feet for the warm weather.

First, I do steps 1 through 5, and then several days later I employ step 6 two to three times a week for maintenance.

STEP 1: EXFOLIATE, EXFOLIATE, EXFOLIATE! Ridding yourself of rough dead skin is the first step in achieving sandal-ready feet. I love to massage RITUALS Himalaya Sweet Almond Oil & Indian Rose Salt Scrub ($29.00 for 15.8 oz. Reviewed here) into clean dry feet. It feels and smells amazing, and it moisturizes the skin while it removes dead skin. I then wet my hands with warm water and continue to massage my feet for a few more minutes before rinsing them.

Step 2: Wash Feet with RITUALS Fortune Oil Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood ($15.00 for 6.7 oz. Reviewed here). After rinsing the RITUALS Himalaya Sweet Almond Oil & Indian Rose Salt Scrub off of my feet, I like to soak them in warm water infused with Rituals Fortune Oil, and wash my feet with this delectable smelling cleansing oil. If you have had a long day, or if you want to start your day off in a balanced and relaxed way, then I recommend letting your feet soak a little longer. The added benefit is that tough skin will be softer, more moisturized, and easier to further exfoliate. Follow by patting feet dry with a soft and fluffy towel.

Step 3: File Away Rough Skin with the ingenious VAMA Beauty Crystal Glass Foot File ($21.50 from Amazon)! This hefty and durable double-sided crystal foot file has two different abrasive surfaces. One side is coarse in order to effectively remove hard skin and calluses, while the other side offers a finer grit for polishing. It is very easy to clean, and to keep hygienic.

According to VAMA Beauty,

If you are a big fan of crystal glass nail files then you will love our glass foot file! Removes hard skin from your heels very gently and effectively. Each side has varied roughness, coarse and a gentle buffer side. Use on dry feet - no need to soak. Apply your favourite lotion or foot cream to finish up your beauty procedure. Our foot file comes in a clear plastic pouch.

Step 4: Hydrate! The natural antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties found in Coconut Oil makes it the perfect oil for the feet, and that is precisely why I use CapriClear Coconut Oil ($16.99 for 5.2 oz. Reviewed here) in my pedicures. This is a fantastic fast absorbing and fragrance-free oil that is deeply hydrating and leaves the skin is soft and supple.

Step 5: Nourish and Deeply Moisturize! African Botanics Marula Botanical Body Cream ($85.00 for 6.76 oz. Reviewed here) is my very favorite body cream for so many reasons. This beautiful cream boasts an antioxidant and Omega-rich anti-aging formula that deeply nourishes the skin leaving it unbelievably soft, supple and ultra-moisturized. According to African Botanics, it "Nourishes, softens, repairs, regenerates and provides antioxidant defense. Your body is veiled in invisible moisture, which becomes obvious in both the appearance and texture of the skin. Firms and smooths skin tone." It is the most sublime body cream that I have ever used, and it works miracles on the feet. It is preservative and chemical free.

Step 6: Deliver Continued Moisture to Your Feet. A few days following Steps 1-5, I wear the ultra effective Geluxury Moisturizing Slippers ($39.95) to effectively deliver moisture to my feet while I am lounging about the house. I tend to use them between 2-3 times a week for 30 minutes. Geluxury Slippers are infused with 7 therapeutic botanical and essential oils through an ingenious SmartGel lining that releases the oils into the skin.

When you first put on the Geluxury Moisturizing Slippers you notice a rather cool and smooth sensation against your skin, but once they warm up the botanicals become activated and release moisture directly to your feet. The snug fit coupled with the gel texture is exceedingly comfortable, and the results are undeniable. Skin is left smooth, soft, hydrated and over time the effects are quite pronounced.

According to Geluxury,

The deep-hydrating gel lining delivers therapeutic botanicals and oils that heal, intense hydrators that nourish, and ceramides that seal and protect. With regular use, you will restore, repair and rejuvenate your cracked heels, calluses, and damaged cuticles.

Specially formulated to repair even the most difficult skin, our patent-pending SmartGel lining is infused with 7 therapeutic botanical and essential oils.

Final Tip: DON'T FORGET SUNSCREEN ON YOUR FEET! Once you have painted your toes your favorite shade for the summer, don't leave the house without remembering to cover your feet with a high SPF sunscreen. People often neglect to apply sunscreen to their feet, and it is imperative to protect them since they receive excessive exposure to the sun. I like to use an SPF 30-40, and as is the case with all sunscreens reapplication every 2 hours is important to keep your skin protected.

Overall Assessment: This is a foolproof way to achieve and maintain soft and pretty feet all year long, but your efforts will really be the most noticeable during the warmer months when your feet will be the most visible! Paint your toes and pull out your favorite sandals, your feet are ready now!

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Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Winter Skin Perfection from Belli Skincare and CapriClear | The Perfect Trio for Cold Weather

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While there is no doubt that the crisp winter air perfectly embodies the winter wonderland associated with the holiday season, it also wreaks havoc on the skin. Just as I switch out my facial skincare routine during the colder months, I also do the same with my body care products. One of my beauty tricks is to use a mild non-stripping body wash followed by a body oil, and then topped off with a body lotion or a cream.

Lately I have been using Belli Pure & Pampered Body Wash followed by CapriClear Spray on Moisturizer and then followed by Belli All Day Moisture Body Lotion. I find that the Pure & Pampered Body wash thoroughly cleans the skin without stripping it, and leaves it soft and supple. The light lavender scent is delightful and relaxing, and might make you want to take a long shower. Immediately following the shower, I apply CapriClear Spray On Moisturizer to warm damp skin. It sinks in immediately and leaves skin unbelievably soft, soothed and hydrated. I then slather the Belli All Day Moisture Body Lotion all over, and immediately notice how soft, silky smooth and moisturized my skin looks and feels.

Belli Pure & Pampered Body Wash is a specially formulated body wash created for daily use.  It gently cleans without stripping the skin of its natural oils.  It contains cucumber and green tea extracts that are rich in antioxidants as well as lavender and chamomile that provide a relaxing aromatherapy experience.   

•Pure and balanced cleansing for your entire body

• Specially formulated for daily use 

• Gently cleans without stripping skin of its natural oils

• Features cucumber and green tea extracts, both are rich in antioxidants

• Lavender and chamomile provide a relaxing aromatherapy experience

Ingredients:

$13.00 for 6.5 oz. from Belli Skincare, Dermstore, Amazon and drugstore.com.

Belli All Day Moisture Body Lotion is a luxuriously emollient cream that deeply moisturizes and comforts dry skin.  It contains antioxidant vitamin E, chamomile to soothe and refresh skin and lemon oil to provide an uplifting scent. It has  a light delicious citrus-scent, and it provides all day moisture and relief from dry skin. It is a soothing formula that absorbs very quickly, and it leaves behind no greasy residue.

Ingredients:

$17.00 for 6.5 oz. from Belli Skincare, Dermstore, Amazon and drugstore.com.

CapriClear Spray On Moisturizer is made with 100% fractionated coconut oil, this all-natural, paraben-free treatment combats dry, flaky, irritated skin, making it soft and silky.  Conceived by a dermatologist, fragrance-free CapriClear is an exceptionally pure, gentle and effective single-ingredient solution for even the most sensitive skin.  It also has the eczema seal of approval and is safe for the entire family.  Plus, it results in soft, silky skin.

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Coconut Oil).

$19.99 for 5.2 oz. from CapriClear, drugstore.com, Amazon and Walgreens.
$10.99 for 1.9 oz. from CapriClear, drugstore.com, Amazon and Walgreens.

Overall Assessment: A really great combination of products to keep skin clean and ultra moisturized!

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Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Good Things to Have On Hand During the Holidays

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As I was thinking about the upcoming holidays it occurred to me that while this is a festive time of year that it is also one fraught with heightened stress. All of the running around to the grocery store and the mall can leave one feeling a bit worse for wear, and the stress of the season can make people careless, accident prone and cranky. Furthermore, hosting events, and both the foreseen and unforeseen house guests, means needing to be stocked and prepared for come what may.

As I thought about these things, it occurred to me that there were certain items, or item types, that would be worth having on hand for everyone's pleasure, and for any unforeseen bumps and bruises. I picked a few of my favorites, but would to hear about yours!

Cleansing:

Wonderful hand soaps and special bars of soap are a really lovely way to treat yourself and your guests since they transform the mundane activity of hand-washing to a wonderfully luxurious sensory experience.

My favorite hand soaps are the wonderful creations from J.R. Watkins. Their *Foaming Hand Soap in Lemon (reviewed here) and Hand Soap in Lemon and Aloe & Green Tea (reviewed here) are refreshing and lusciously scented soaps that leave hands clean, soft and moisturized. I buy them in multiples whenever they go on sale at the grocery store, but always have them on hand because they are so wonderful to use.

Castelbel Savon Passion Flower & Coconut Soap is a fresh fruity scent that is intoxicatingly beautiful and moisturizing– a true treat for the senses.

Kopa Haiku Lilikoi Guava Cream Soap is an otherworldly soap that my friend bought for me during his last trip to Hawaii, and when he handed it to me I was so overtaken by the sweet scent of paradise that I sniffed it and sniffed it and sniffed it until I felt as though I was in Hawaii!

*SAI-SEI Mineral Loofah Body Polish Soap is a "dual purpose soap has been created with essential minerals, moisturizing glycerin and a segment of natural loofah sponge to gently buff and purify the skin." It gently exfoliates and moisturizes leaving skin soft and supple. It's a lovely addition to the shower.

Moisturizing:

When the weather starts to cool down I like nothing more than a nice variety of rich creams, lotions, body butters and oils to keep my skin soft supple and hydrated. If you have lots of guests throughout the holidays it's especially nice to have a variety from which they can choose in the guest bathroom. Here are a few that have been getting lots of love at my house lately.

*Lavanila The Healthy Body Butter in Vanilla Lavender (reviewed here) is a delectably scented fusion of vanilla and lavender that delights the senses while the luxuriously emollient formula moisturizes the skin.

*Alaffia Coffee & Shea Cafe Au Lait Body Butter in Orange Vanilla is a wonderful Fair Trade richly emollient body cream that smells edible. If you have ever enjoyed Alaffia products, then this one is a definite treat worth having.

*Desert Essence Island Mango Hand and Body Lotion is a rich cream that has the heavenly scent of the tropics. If it's snowing outside then this might be the perfect catalyst for imagining warm tropical breezes and a cute cabana boy handing you a fruity drink on the beach!

*RITUALS Fortune Oil Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood Caring Shower Oil (reviewed here) is a wonderfully moisturizing cleansing oil that has a warm sweet scent that envelopes the senses. It leaves skin soft, supple, silky smooth and hydrated.

*Mario Badescu Summer Shine Body Lotion is a wonderful vitamin rich lotion that imparts the perfect luminous glow that captures the light subtly. It is absolutely holiday perfect, and it's perfect all year long.

For the Shower:

Both expected and unexpected overnight guests during the holidays means that your shower is going to see a lot more traffic than usual. Nothing makes people feel welcome and loved than your attention to the details of their daily life in your home. Having lovely high quality products in the shower means making everyone feel pampered and happy.

*Shiseido Ibuki Gentle Cleanser is a wonderful non-stripping foaming cleanser that is gentle enough for people with sensitive skin. It creates a nice dense foaming lather that cleans skin thoroughly. It is very concentrated– so the smallest amount goes a very long way. It is amazing alone or used with a Clarisonic, and the convenient squeeze tube makes it perfect for the shower. You will love it, and so will your overnight guests.

*Mario Badescu Citrus Body Cleanser is a an utterly delectable fusion of Grapefruit and Orange extracts that gently exfoliate dry skin,  while the Linden extract hydrates. It makes the skin feel amazingly refreshed, smooth and hydrated.

*Beauty and Bees Tasmanian Real Beer Shampoo Bar (reviewed here) is a wonderfully hydrating bar shampoo that works wonders on dry hair and scalp, but is wonderful for all types of hair. It leaves my curly hair soft, shiny and manageable.

*Beauty and Bees Tasmanian Real Beer Hair Conditioner (reviewed here) is a super concentrated highly moisturizing bar conditioner that is unbelievably effective at taming unruly hair, and leaving hair glossy and gorgeous.

Conquering Chapped Lips:

Nothing will prevent you from wearing your new Holy Grail matte lipstick faster than chapped winter lips. So the next time you are at the drugstore buy a wide assortment of lip balms to have on hand for you, your family and your guests. In fact, Keep a bowl of them in the bathroom so that guests can choose one!

*ChapStick Moisture Hydration Lock in Vanilla Cream (reviewed here) is a staple in my house because it is so emollient, hydrating, and a true enemy of dry chapped lips. It is affordable enough to have on hand for family and friends.

*ChapStick in Citrus Jelly Bean (reviewed here) is one of the fun flavors that will make fending off chapped lips a pleasant experience. 

*Body Drench Lip Drench Eucalyptus Moisturizing Lip Balm is a very refreshing lip balm that moisturizes parched lips while making them tingle just a little bit.

For Whatever Ails You:

When boo-boos occur, as they often do, have a few essentials on hand just in case! Other than obvious things like band aids and antibiotic cream– it's a good idea to take stock of what you have, and what you need just in case.

*Painted Earth Skincare Boo-Boo Gel is brilliant multitasker that heals pimples. minor burns, bites and cuts. According to Painted Earth, "Smooth it on daily for blemish free skin. Then grab it when you need it for burns, bites, and small cuts. It’s full of great ingredients that calm and heal the skin.…just about anything skin related. No home should be with out this natural fix all, safe and effective for the old and young . For quick relief, this natural anti-inflammatory will soothe, heal, and nourish your skin. Preventative treatment as well as anti-aging for the skin and body...." 

*Painted Earth Legendary Blend of Thieves Oil "is a blend of five different therapeutic grade essential oils, including cinnamon, clove, lemon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. This combination of healing oils covers a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity and contains properties that strengthen the immune system. Due to its effectiveness against highly infectious germs, including viruses and bacteria, it is one of nature’s most powerful natural home remedies." 

Painted Earth suggests using this oil for the "flu, colds, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, sore throat, strep, toothache, cuts, poison ivy, and as an immune stimulant. We use it to eliminate odors, disinfect around the house, and so much more." 

*CapriClear Moisturizing Spray 100% Fractionated Coconut Oil (reviewed here) is a very hydrating oil that is perfect for those with dry and sensitive skin, and it has the National Eczema Associations seal of approval.

Inevitably accidents do happen during the holiday season since so many activities are done in great haste, and periodically that leads to an overzealous curling iron the the face, or a burn from the oven rack because one's mind may be running through the list of what needs to be done, rather than focusing on the task at hand. When these unforeseen and unfortunate accidents lead to scarring there is a really handy at-home product that can be used on healed scars to help diminish their size. It helps to flatten and soften raised scars in order to make them less noticeable. These should not be used on open wounds of any sort, and certainly should not be used in lieu of a trip to your doctor. That said, if your doctor says this is a viable option for you it may be just what you are looking for to make an existing scar less prominent.

*ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Daily Discs  are "indicated for use in the treatment and prevention of small abnormal scars, including hypertrophic scars and keloids, often resulting from:  Mole Removal, Biopsies, Acne, Small Surgeries, Injuries/Burns, Kids' Scrapes, Bug Bites and much more".

ScarAway medical grade silicone Daily Discs are made with an advanced silicone technology, the latest innovation used by plastic surgeons, burn centers and hospitals around the world.

ScarAway's clinically proven technology diminishes the appearance of scars both new and old, restoring skin to a more natural texture and color.  Used after surgery or injury, our advanced technology helps treat and prevent abnormal scar formation.  It is safe for anyone age three and up and for all skin tones.  ScarAway helps alleviate the itching and discomfort associated with scars.

ScarAway uses an advanced silicone technology, which mimics the natural barrier function of healthy skin.  Research suggests that silicone acts to hydrate scar tissue, which in turn works to soften the scar, reducing excessive scar formation and causing it to fade.

*ScarAway Advanced Formula Scar Gel 100% Silicone for Scars carry, "the only patented, transparent, self-drying silicone gel technology which improves the appearance of scars and prevents abnormal or excessive scar formation."

Intended Use: "ScarAway is intended for the management of old and new scars, including hypertrophic and keloid scars, resulting from surgery, trauma, wounds and burns. For prevention of abnormal scars, use as soon as the wound is closed or sutures are removed.  Scar Away is suitable for use on children or people with sensitive skin."

*ScarAway Silicone Scar Sheets "effectively shrink, flatten and fade hypertrophic (raised) and keloid scars. Using Advanced Patented Silicone Technology, previously available only through hospitals, burn centers and plastic surgeons, this medical-grade scar treatment product brings you the ultimate in non-invasive, drug-free scar treatment. Scars may feel softer in just a few days, with visible results in just weeks. Optimal results are achieved in about 12 weeks." 

For Those Beautiful Pearly Whites:

There is absolutely nothing nicer than having new toothbrushes and toothpaste on hand for unforeseen house guests or those who simply forgot to pack theirs. It is such a small thing to remember, but your guests will remember the extent of your hospitality.

*Colgate Enamel Health Whitening Toothpaste, Clean Mint Paste is my current favorite go-to toothpaste. It helps whiten and brighten, and tastes fresh and minty.

*Colgate 360 Enamel Health Sensitive Toothbrush is really nice gentle toothbrush that will work well for everybody, but if you have overnight guests with sensitive teeth they will be thanking you for not giving them a hard toothbrush!

While plaque fighting mouthwash might seem to be a less than interesting product to include on my list– it strikes me as a perfectly reasonable thing to have on hand during the holidays when one tends to eat, drink and be merry in excess, and this is a good line of defense against all of those indulgences. 

Dentyl Active has a cult-following in England and throughout the world, but can be procured from Amazon in the US. This is a really unusual mouthwash because it is completely alcohol free, and has the unique distinction of having a dual phase formula that one needs to shake before using.

According to Dentyl Active,

Dentyl Active's advanced antibacterial action remains effective, and essential oils continue to help protect the teeth and gums from further build up, for up to 18 hours after use. As Dentyl Active is alcohol-free it does not dry the mouth (which can make bad breath even worse), is gentle to mouth tissues and does not burn or sting. For more information visit their website here.

*Dentyl Active Plaque Fighter Alcohol Free Mouthwash Clove (500ml)has a really wonderful and refreshing clove flavor that is neither too strong and assertive, nor does it have any tendency to burn the mouth as one might expect of such a pungent and potent oil. It is both pleasant and effective, and unlike any mouthwash that I have ever tried.

*Dentyl pH Smooth Mint Mouthrinse (500ml)is a delicious mellow mint that doesn't have the synthetic taste of so many of the drugstore brand mouthwashes on the market. It's not just highly effective, but it's also pleasurable to use.

While this list is hardly a conclusive one, these items do give me some peace of mind knowing that they are there for all to enjoy and use.

What must-have items do you keep on hand during the holidays? What would you add to my list? What is the one thing that you never seem to have enough of, or constantly run out of? 

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Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

CapriClear Moisturizing Spray 100% Fractionated Coconut Oil Review

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CapriClear Moisturizing Spray is a fast absorbing spray oil that offers immediate relief for dry skin. It was developed by a dermatologist and is ideal for all ages and skin types, but it was created with sensitive skin types in mind. Not only can it be used on the sensitive skin of babies, but it also used with great success by those with Eczema.

CapriClear is part of the Eczema & Sensitive-Skin Education (EASE) program, and received the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance that is prominently featured on their packaging.

CapriClear® supports the National Eczema Association (NEA) in their goal of making a difference in the lives of people with Eczema.

According to CapriClear, their Moisturizing Spray is, "a patented, colorless, odorless, non-staining, and hypoallergenic moisturizer made from a single natural ingredient- Fractionated Coconut Oil (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride), the purest form of coconut oil available. CapriClear® does not contain emulsifiers, fragrances, dyes, preservatives, additives, parabens or any other toxins that can lead to skin irritation."

CapriClear Moisturizing Spray is a hypoallergenic that soothes, comforts and moisturizes dry flaky skin. According to CapriClear, it "reduces itching and irritation for people who are sensitive to ingredients commonly found in other products."

Spray-on pure, simple, immediate relief that soothes and comforts. The spray permits an even, very thin coating to be applied to your skin. CapriClear® is colorless and odorless, absorbs instantly, so there is no oily feeling and no staining of clothing. For children and adults of all ages. It is safe for all skin types. It does not burn or sting upon application, making CapriClear® a great option for people who suffer from more serious skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis or eczema.

How to Apply: "Spray evenly on skin as often as needed, especially after bathing. Use daily to help protect your skin from dryness and maintain a noticeably improved and healthier appearance."

Safety Information: "For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Do not inhale. Do not use if you have an allergy to coconut."

My experience: This is a safe and effective spray oil that leaves my dry winter skin moisturized, soft and supple. I spray it on damp skin immediately following a shower and it makes my skin feeling fantastic. On days when it is particularly cold I prefer to layer it under a rich cream or body butter, but generally it offers more than enough moisture. I also spray it on dry skin and have noted that whether applied to damp or dry skin that my skin is left hydrated and with a pronounced luminosity. This is a really lovely moisturizer, however if you have a sensitivity or allergy to coconut in any form then this product should be strictly avoided.

Formulated without: Fragrance, Artificial Colors, Toxins, Phthalates, PABA, Parabens, Sulfates, Animal Products, Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, and Gluten.

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides

Overall assessment: CapriClear Moisturizing Spray offers effective relief from dry and flaky skin. It is easy to use, and consistently offers my skin a lovely luminescence.

5.2 oz for $16.99 from CapriClear, Ulta, Drugstore.com, Walgreens & Amazon (Affiliate Links)

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Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.