Good Things to Have On Hand During the Holidays

*Press Samples, Gifts, Purchased by Me (Affiliate Links)

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? 

Press Samples and purchased by me. All views expressed are categorically my own (Affiliate Links).
Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

NEW ChapStick Dual-Ended Hydration Lock Day & Night and Hydration Lock Moisturize & Renew Lip Balms | Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

As the warm weather gives way to the cool crisp air I always find myself standing before all of the lip balms at my local drugstore, and I generally come home with several options to choose from. Of course, I do have something of a penchant for lip balms year round, but this time of year I use them more judiciously as a preemptive strike against the onset of chapped lips. I have used ChapStick lip balms since childhood, but must confess that I never remember loving them to the extent that I love their newest versions. These protective and moisturizing balms are pocket perfect, and are hoarded in multiples in my household because they aren't just effective, but they are also comfortable, emollient, healing and nourishing to the lips.

According to ChapStick. "when it comes to keeping lips healthier looking a moisturizing lip balm is the best place to start." They have introduced two new dual-ended lip balms that are the newest additions to their award-winning Hydration Lock line. They were created to offer double the care of an ordinary lip balm by having two distinct products in one dual-ended balm.

ChapStick® Hydration Lock Day & Night "is the first dual-sided lip balm to offer 24-hour lip care. The Day end contains aloe and vitamin E and helps keep lips moisturized for 8 hours, and also contains SPF to protect lips from the sun. The Night formula is a natural formula that includes tamanu and coconut oils to replenish and nourish the lips overnight."

Both sides are very emollient and feel wonderfully moisturizing on the lips. Hydration Lock Day includes a sunscreen to give lips extra protection while Hydration Lock Night is formulated with rich nourishing oils to give added nourishment and hydration to lips during the evenings and while you sleep.

•  Night Dual-ended premium lip balm for clinically proven healthier looking lips
• Day formula is ultra-conditioning with SPF to protect your lips by day
• Night formula contains tamanu oil and natural butters to replenish your lips by night

Ingredients for Chapstick® Hydration Lock Day: Octinoxate 7.5%, Oxybenzone 3.5%, White Petrolatum 40.7%, aloe barbadensis leaf extract, carnauba wax, cetyl alcohol, fragrance, isocetyl stearate, isopropyl lanolate, isopropyl myristate, lanolin, methylparaben, mineral oil, paraffin, propylparaben, tocopheryl linoleate/oleate, vitamin E acetate, white wax.

Ingredients for Chapstick® Hydration Lock Night: helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, jojoba esters, euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, beeswax, copernicia cerifera (carnauba) wax, tocopheryl acetate, mangifera indica (mango) seed butter, butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), octyldodecanol, flavor, persea gratissima (avocado) oil, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, calophyllum tacamahaca seed oil, tocopherol, hydrogenated soybean oil, rubus idaeus (raspberry) seed oil, glyceryl stearate.

ChapStick® Hydration Lock Moisturize & Renew "delivers advanced anti-aging formulas. The Moisturize end contains the antioxidant CoQ10 and hyaluronic spheres for long-lasting hydration, while the Renew end contains natural butters like shea and mango to soften, condition and revitalize lips."

I confess that I use both sides of Hydration Lock Moisturize & Renew interchangeably, and often at the same time! This is an ultra moisturizing, super emollient lip balm that feels so great on the lips that I find myself reapplying it even when I don't need to! Lips are left smooth, slightly plumped, deeply moisturized, and silky soft.

• Dual-ended premium lip balm for clinically proven healthier looking lips
• Moisturize formula smooths and reduces the appearance of fine lines and contains CoQ10 and Hyaluronic spheres
• Renew formula has natural butters like Shea and Mango to condition and instantly softens lips

Ingredients for Chapstick® Hydration Lock Moisturize (Soft Vanilla): hydrogenated poly (C6-14 olefin), isopropyl myristate, paraffin, polyethylene, petrolatum, perfluorononyl dimethicone, euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax, beeswax, dimethicone, hydrogenated polydecene, isohexadecene, caprylic/capric triglyceride, bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2, microcrystalline wax, stearyl dimethicone, tocopheryl acetate, copernicia cerifera (carnauba) wax, ethylhexyl palmitate, octadecene, alumina, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, methylparaben, propylparaben, spilanthes acmella flower extract, ubiquinone, flavor, silica dimethyl silylate, butylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, phenoxyethanol, sodium hyaluronate, hexylene glycol.

Ingredients for Chapstick® Hydration Lock Renew (Botanical Medley): helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, jojoba esters, euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, beeswax, caprylic/capric triglyceride, copernicia cerifera (carnauba) wax, tocopheryl acetate, butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), mangifera indica (mango) seed butter, octyldodecanol, persea gratissima (avocado) oil, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, tocopherol, hydrogenated soybean oil, flavor, rubus idaeus (raspberry) seed oil, glyceryl stearate.

Overall Assessment: A new twist on a classic. Both balms leave my lips soft, supple and moisturized, and I suspect that I will go through a few tubes by years end! 

These new additions to the ChapStick® product line can be found at drugstores and mass retailers across the country for $2.99 (Unaffiliated Links).

 http://www.chapstick.com/  
 http://www.facebook.com/ChapStick

Press Sample. The ChapStick® product and information have been provided by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Back to School Drugstore Finds on a Budget For the Face, Hair & Body

 Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

Back to School is a time that is both fraught with excitement and nervous energy. The accompanying dread that is a result of yet again facing the unknown of a new school year is often offset by the eagerly anticipated back-to-school shopping. The typical college student tends to live in a frugal manner, and has to find practical ways to indulge while not cutting into their hefty tuition, textbook and rental budget. After receiving several emails asking for a list of drugstore finds from avid readers, who just so happen to be college students on tight budgets, I came up with this list of generally easy to find drugstore products that will allow you to indulge without  blowing your budget. One of the issues that they repeatedly said that they face is the fact that they live with lots of roommates and share their bathrooms. Many of them asserted that they wanted large size products that were very affordable since they would invariably end up being shared with their friends and roommates. Therefore, I tried to select very affordable larger size products whenever possible. While it may seem rather obvious I am compelled to say that I would avoid sharing the eyeliners, lip balms, deodorants and in many cases the hair accessories for the obvious sanitary reasons.

Masks & Strips:

Freeman Facial Hydration Mask Goji Berry ($3.99 for 6 oz. Drugstore.com and Freeman): Soothe away skin stress with this nourishing gel/cream mask, fortified with soothing Chamomile and antioxidant Goji Berry. Replenish to rebalance skin's equilibrium for super smooth, super-hydrated skin that's in a state of bliss. Perfect for stressed, dehydrated skin.

Key Ingredients: Goji Berry Extract, Chamomile Flower Extract and Avocado Oil

Ingredient: Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf juice, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum Extract, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract, Garcinia Mangostana Peel Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Sodium PCA, Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric, Triglyceride, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Polyquaternium-11, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, DMDM Hydantoin, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Fragrance (Parfum), Red 40 (CI 16035), Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Benzyl Benzoate.

Freeman Facial Peel-Off Mask Cucumber ($3.99 for 6 oz. from Drugstore.com and Freeman): A super-cooling, skin-quenching mask that gently peels away impurities that can cause skin to be rough and dull. Contains Cucumber Extract and Aloe to soothe while moisturizing, ensuring skin feels soft and silky-smooth after every use. Perfect for normal to combination skin.

Key Ingredients: Cucumber Extract, Aloe Vera and Vitamin A.

Ingredient: Water/Aqua/Eau, Polyvinyl Alcohol, SD Alcohol 40-B, Peg-8, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract , Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract , Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract , Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Maranta Arundinacea Root Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Extract , Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract , Nasturtium Officinale Extract , Aleurites Moluccana Extract, Propylene Glycol, Panthenol, Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Sodium PCA, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polysorbate 20, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Fragrance (Parfum), Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Blue 1 (CI 42090).

Freeman Facial Revealing Peel-Off Mask Pomegranate ($3.99 for 6 oz. from Drugstore.com and Freeman): Immerse skin with super nutrients found only in nature! This Pomegranate-infused mask gently purges dirt and excess oils from skin for a cleaner, refined surface. An 8-antioxidant blend of Acai, Blueberry, Cranberry, Goji, Mango, Mangosteen, Noni, and Pomegranate guard against free radicals and environmental stress. Get gorgeous as you reveal fresher skin. Perfect for all skin types.

Key Ingredients: Pomegranate, Vitamins A and E.
Antioxidant Blend: Acai, Blueberry, Cranberry, Goji, Mango, Mangosteen, Noni, Pomegranate

Ingredient: Water/Aqua/Eau, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Peg-8, SD Alcohol 40-B, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Retinyl Palmitate, Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium PCA, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Garcinia Mangostana Peel/Fruit Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polysorbate 20, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Fragrance (Parfum), Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial), Amyl Cinnamic Aldehyde, Linalool, Blue 1 (CI 42090), Red 33 (CI 17200).

All three of the Freeman Masks are fun to use, and they offer great results. Each of the big tubes are very affordable, and will last a while-- even if you share them with your roommates!

Bioré Deep Cleansing Pore Strips (8 Strips for $6.89 from Drugstore.com): Deep cleansing nose strips instantly remove dirt, oil and blackheads for cleanser, smaller-looking pores. These are so much fun to use, and they offer a highly effective way to clear clogged pores on your nose.

Clogged pores... they may be a fact of life, but don't let them rule your life.  Biore deep cleansing pore strips are a weekly pore refining treatment for the nose area that instantly removes pore-clogging dirt, oil and blackheads.  Tests show that in just one use, Biore® deep cleansing pore strips are twice as effective as the leading pore cleanser at getting rid of build-up and blackheads for cleaner pores.  In fact, when used regularly.  Biore® deep cleansing pore strips actually diminish the appearance of your pores.  Bioré  nose strips have an innovative slit design for improved fit.  Do not use more often than once every three days. Dermatologist tested, Hypo-allergenic.

Ingredients: Polyquaternoim-37, Silica, Water, Glycerin, Polysilicone-13, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide, Hamamelis Virginiana Extract (Witch Hazel), Butylene Glycol, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Methylparaben.

Body Sprays & Lotions:

Bodycology Naughty & Nice Sheer Innocence Sheer Musk & Peony Fragrance Mist ($4.99 for 8 oz. from Walgreens and Target): The fresh scent of citrus mingled with peony petals and vanilla creme delights your senses. 

Bodycology Naughty & Nice Sheer Innocence Sheer Musk & Peony Moisturizing Body Cream ($5.99 for 8 oz. from Walgreens and Target): The fresh scent of citrus mingled with peony petals and vanilla creme delights your senses. Feel the skin softening and moisturizing benefits of a rich butter complex containing Shea, Cocoa & Jojoba butters.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Eau), Stearic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isopropyl Palmitate, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Glyceryl Stearate, Fragrance (Parfum), Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol. May Contain: Red 4 (CI 14700), Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Blue 1 (CI 42090), Red 33 (CI 17200), Ext. Violet 2 (CI 60730), Green 3 (CI 42053).

Adidas Pure Lightness Body Spray (About $8.89 for 4 oz. on Amazon): Pure Lightness is described as "a luminous fresh floral fragrance revealing a graceful and balanced style." It's a fresh, clean and easy to wear fuss-free floral.  Stay fresh all day while on the move. Whether you want to feel energized or dreamy, happy or relaxed, invigorated or natural, adidas has the unique fragrance to capture their mood. Featuring three signature scents - the luminous, fresh Pure Lightness, the sweet, flirty Fruity Rhythm and the playful and bold Natural Vitality - feel healthy, fresh and beautiful all day.

Bodycology Instant Attraction Moisturizing Body Cream in Orchid and Pear ($4.99-$6.99 for 8 oz. from Drugstore.com): Feel the benefits of a rich butter complex containing Shea, Cocoa & Jojoba butters.

Bodycology Instant Attraction Fragrance Mist in Orchid and Pear ($4.99 for 8 oz. Walgreens and Target): Delight in the luxury experience of Bodycology Instant Attraction Fragrance Mist's sensuous fragrance. The Orchid and Pear combination is fun and easy to wear without being overdone. 

Deodorants:

Soft & Dri Aluminum Free Powder Fresh Deodorant ($2.29 from Drugstore.com): Soft & Dri Aluminum Free deodorant provides highly-effective all-day protection from odor only, with a gentle fragrance that gives you that confident feeling of clean. Made in Canada. This is a great deodorant alternative if you aren't a fan of natural deodorants, but also avoid the more commercial brands that contain aluminum.

• All Day Odor Protection
• Targets the Bacteria that Cause Odor
• Won't Stain Clothes

Ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Water, Sodium Stearate, PEG-6, Methyl Ether, Triclocarban, Red 33, Fragrance.

Tom's of Maine Long Lasting Beautiful Earth Deodorant ($4.99 for 2.25 oz. from Drugstore.com): 100% natural clinically tested 24 hour odor protection. Conditions and soothes the skin. Contains no Aluminum and no Parabens. Does not contain artificial or animal ingredients. If you are a fan of natural deodorants that contain fewer chemicals-- then Tom's of Maine offers a large selection of effective deodorants. They have a lovely selection of scented deodorants, but also have unscented versions.

Ingredients: Propanediol (100% Vegetable Derived), Water, Glycerin, Sodium Stearate, Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Leaf Juice (Organic), Zinc Ricinoleate, Glyceryl Laurate, Natural Fragrance, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Humulus Lupulus (hops) Extract (C02), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Organic Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower)

Styling Products:

These hair styling products are super-sized and affordable-- so you probably won't mind leaving them on the bathroom counter for your roommates to use. The serum will work on all hair types for shine, smoothing and managing frizz, but the three styling products are targeted to wavy and curly hair.

La Bella Super Shine Polishing Serum (6 oz. $4.99-$5.99 from Walgreens and Drugstore.com): Eliminates frizz and flyaway hair.  Polishes and seals the cuticle to help protect chemically treated hair.  Re-hydrates and conditions the hair, leaving it manageable, shiny and smooth.  Advanced lightweight formula provides heat protection and helps prevent split-ends and breakage.  Ideal for all hair types.

Ingredients: C13 14 Isoparaffin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Fragrance

La Bella Lots of Curls Styling Gel (22 oz. for $2.99 from CVS): Scrunch & shape. Smooth curls with touchable hold. Professional formula. Revitalizes and controls. Unique two in one formula holds and activates. Scientifically formulated to enhance curls, giving curls greater definition, bounce and shine. Holds hair in place, and minimizes frizzies. Performs best on naturally curly, wavy, and permed hair. Alcohol free. No build up or flaking. Safe for color treated hair. Will not affect hair color. No animal testing. Made in USA.

Ingredients: Water, Sorbitol, PVP, Propylene Glycol, Carbomer, Potassium Sorbate, Keratin Amino Acids, Sodium Chloride, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Aminomethyl Propanol, DMDM Hydantoin, Methylparaben, Polysorbate 20, Benzophenone-4, Tetrasodium EDTA, Fragrance, Red 33.

L.A. Looks Nutra Curl Moisturizing Gel ($2.79 for 20 oz. from Drugstore.com): Curly hair craves hydration. Quench your curls’ thirst with L.A. Looks Nutra Curl Moisturizing Gel. Formulated with hydrating avocado oil, this mega hold gel makes your curls soft, touchable swirls that really twirl. Get defined, conditioned, frizz-free curls without a heavy, greasy feel. Fall in love with a perfect bounce that lasts all day!

L.A. Looks Absolute Curls ($3.35 for 8 oz. from Drugstore.com): Define your curls without stiffness. For touchable, flawless looking curls, get LA Looks Absolute Curls, a lightweight, whipped creme with flexible hold to help define, texturize and style.  This creme has a combination of shea butter, argan oil and proteins to help smooth unruly hair, control frizz and lock in moisture for a long lasting soft, natural looking finish.  No matter what type of hold you need, extreme, defined or flexible, LA 

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Dimethicone, VP, Methacrylamide, Vinyl Imidazole Copolymer, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Shea), Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Polysorbate 80, Myristyl Myristate, Acrylates, Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Sorbitan Stearate, Polysorbate 60, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Cetyl Alcohol, Potassium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, DMDM Hydantoin, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Fragrance

Conair Bamboo-Carbon Ceramic Heat 1.125" Flat Iron ($25.00 from Walmart): Customize your look with Conair! This sleek new versatile flat iron helps you achieve the hairstyle you desire whether it’s smooth hair in seconds or even curls. It has an easy-glide nano bamboo carbon ceramic surface which is one of the latest technological advances in hair appliances. Ultra-smooth plates glide through hair fast and styling product residue removes easily after each use.  It features bamboo extract which is known for its strengthening properties, and the ceramic evenly distributes heat to eliminate hot spots that can damage hair.

The new easy-glide floating plate is designed with a little give to "float" in the iron. This provides better contact with hair and eliminates gaps to achieve straighter results faster.

The carbon provides maximum anti-static and anti-frizz protection for high-intensity shine and manageability. The ribbed texture on outer housing guides hair to curl as you turn the iron to create more volume. It's an easy way to add shape to straight styles. 

This tool is designed for all hair types from fine to curly to most resistant and has 30 heat settings that reach up to 410°F. It has a 30-second heat-up and a uniform heat recovery system to maintain

a constant temperature.

HAIRUWEAR Color Strips Extensions ($10.00 from Ulta): If you want to have colored hair accents without the hassle of permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary dyes-- then these fun color strips are easy and fun. 

To add instant color accents to any hairstyle, try Put On Pieces Human Hair Clip-In Color Strips. These Clip-In Color Strips are 16" long on a 1" weft and can be curled or straightened with thermal styling tools to blend perfectly with any style you create. Available in fun fantasy tones: Amethyst, Blue, Gold, Pink, Purple, Red, Black, Teal, and Light Purple. For more information visit: www.hairuwear.com.

Scünci makes so many fun and affordable hair products, and Drugstore.com has a wonderful and affordable selection. From expandable headbands to hair ties-- I always have a large selection of their hair accessories on hand

From the fun jewel encrusted Bendini Clips to their fabulous No Slip Grip Jaw Clips, many of their products are well under $5.00.

Scünci No Slip Grip Jaw Clips have an ingenious design thanks to the rubber no-slip interior panels that keep hair in place and prevents the clip from falling out. 

I love these and have piles of them in lots of different sizes. They offer a nice alternative to a pony tale and will let you get out the door and off to class without having to fuss over your hair, and without sacrificing style.

Or if you want a little more flair for your hair-- then the beaded Upzing might be your thing!

Prestige Total Intensity Eyeliners ($3.95- $4.40 each from Prestige Cosmetics, Ulta and Drugstore.com): Intense colors with deep black undertones, long lasting wear and soft application. 100% Waterproof and smudge proof formula.

Total Intensity Eyeliners feature gorgeous and sumptuous jewel toned colors with an an iridescent twist.  They boast intense pigmentation, and once they set they are truly budge proof. You will definitely need a oil based or duo phase type of eye makeup remover in order to remove these beauties. The liners are soft and creamy, and the color pay off is just astounding.They are so soft and creamy, in fact, that a light hand is best to avoid product loss. For this reason, I find it a good idea to store them in a cool place.

Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Paraffin, C11 12 Isoparaffin, Polybutene, Hydrogenated Cottonseed Oil, Ceresin, Ozokerite, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Jojoba), Microcrystalline Wax (Cera Microcristallina), Methylparaben, Propylparaben, BHT, May Contain (+/-): Mica (CI 77019), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Ultramarines (CI 77007), Carmine (CI 75470), Ferrocyanide (CI 77510), Chromium Oxide Green (CI 77288), Chromium Hydroxide Green (CI 77289), Manganese Violet (CI 77742), Bismuth Oxychloride (CI 77163). Made in Germany.

Left to Right: Lively Turquoise, Strong Slate, Fearless Teal, Powerful Purple, Intense Olive,
Daring Green and Bold Brown.

Lively Turquoise- a very bright and saturated turquoise with shimmer.

Strong Slate- a beautiful blackened charcoal slate with shimmer.

Fearless Teal- a rich blackened teal with shimmer.

Powerful Purple- an intensely elegant blackened purple with shimmer that is infinitely wearable.

Intense Olive- a stunning highly saturated slightly blackened olive green with gorgeous shimmer.

Daring Green- a deep gorgeous highly saturated blackened green with shimmer.

Bold Brown- a rich deep opulent nearly matte brown.

ChapStick Hydration Lock in Vanilla Creme (0.15 oz $2.99 from Drugstore.com): With a light, silky texture for instant smoothness and enhanced lip feel Chapstick Hydration Lock Moisturizer is clinically proven to give advanced skin moisturization. Provides overall revitalization and visibly improves the appearance of your lips. Gives lips a fuller smoother appearance and eight hour moisture.

• Contains antioxidant CoQ10
• Contains hyaluronic filling spheres

Ingredients: Hydrogenated Poly (C6-12 Olefin), Isopropyl Myristate, Paraffin, Polyethylene, Petrolatum, Perfluorononyl Dimethicone, Euphoria Cerifera Wax (Candelilla), Beeswax, Dimethicone, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Isohexadecane, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Microcrystalline Wax, Stearyl Dimethicone, C10-18 Triglycerides, Tocopheryl Acetate, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Alumina, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Flavor, Spilanthes Acmella Flower Extract, Ubiquinone, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hexylene Glycol

Overall assessment: A tight budget doesn't mean that you have to forgo fun bath and beauty products, and with all of the necessary back-to-school purchases you can still pick up a few fun drugstore finds to pamper yourself as the new school year begins.

Press Samples. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

ChapStick Limited Edition Pomegranate Gumdrop and Citrus Jelly Bean Reviews

 Press Samples (Unaffiliated Links)

ChapStick is celebrating the arrival of spring by launching fun limited edition flavors that welcome the season. I received Pomegranate Gumdrop and Citrus Jelly Bean which will be available for a limited time beginning March 1, 2014 at Walmart, CVS and Walgreens for the MSRP of $0.99 - $2.18.

According to ChapStick:

Making lips soft and sweet, these on-trend flavors are formulated to moisturize lips, while imparting delectable fruit and candy scents-- sure to keep lips looking and feeling their best. 

Both flavors smell and taste sweet and yummy, but after a short while the taste does fade. That said, these fun flavors do mean business when it comes to keeping lips soft, supple and moisturized. The texture glides on effortlessly because it boasts a very emollient consistency. While both flavors are pigmented in the tube they impart little to no color on my lips, and swatches were rather fruitless despite their fruity flavors. In addition to staving off chapped lips, these tasty little cuties work double time as bases for lipsticks.

Overall assessment: Yum!

Find ChapStick on their website: www.chapstick.com, www.facebook.com/Chapstick or Twitter.com/ChapStick (Unaffiliated links).

Press Samples and Press Release provided courtesy of Pfizer Consumer Healthcare. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

New ChapStick Hydration Lock Review

PR Samples (Unaffiliated links)

If I could only count how many tubes of ChapStick that I have used in my life so far, I am sure that it would be a very very big pile indeed! Brand nostalgia aside, I have to say that their new Hydration Lock is an astounding achievement. The new ChapStick Hydration Lock is very lightweight, feels wonderfully hydrating on the lips, is silky smooth, and is enriched with the antioxidant CoQ10 and Vitamin E. The formula was conceived to provide 8 full hours of hydration, but I like the way that Hydration Lock feels on the lips so much that I frequently reapply it. I did however apply it at 8:00AM one morning and left my lips bare until 4:00PM to see what would happen, and my lips still looked and felt good eight hours later. I prefer having something on my lips, but I was quite impressed nonetheless. The Vanilla Crème flavor is quite pleasant, but it fades almost immediately.

As the air turns colder and winter approaches, it’s the time of year when our skin starts to react to the harsh elements. You may not be aware that the skin on your lips is the most sensitive skin on the face, so ChapStick® wants to help to protect lips from the cold with Hydration Lock – a premium lip balm with advanced moisturizing ingredients.  The formula keeps lips hydrated for a full eight hours by locking in the lips’ natural moisture and also drawing it in from outside.

Hydration Lock contains a nourishing complex of ingredients, including antioxidant CoQ10, ultra-hydrating Hyaluronic Spheres and Vitamin E, to hydrate, revitalize and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the lips. Whether worn alone or as a base for color, Hydration Lock gives lips a smoother and fuller appearance and provides an enhanced lip feel.

According to ChapStick, Hydration Lock is:
-Clinically proven to moisturize lips, with a lightweight feel.
-8 hours of advanced moisturization revitalizes and visibly improves the appearance of lips.
-Locks in natural moisture and draws it in from natural outside sources.
-Gives lips a fuller and smoother appearance.
-Enriched with antioxidant CoQ10 & Vitamin E- help resist environmental oxidative damage to lips.
-Ultra-hydrating Hyaluronic Spheres- support soft, supple, fuller lips.
-Natural Botanical Extract- known to help revitalize skin.

Overall assessment: The perfect solution to redress the effects of dry winter lips! There are many more tubes of ChapStick Hydration Lock in my future!

$2.49- $2.99 Available where ChapStick is sold.

Disclosure: PR Samples. The ChapStick® product and information have been provided by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare. All Views expressed are categorically my own.

Find ChapStick® on website: www.chapstick.com or ChapStick® Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/ChapStick

Copyright © 2013 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.