DermOrganic Color Care and Pure Argan Oil for Gorgeous Tresses

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

There is nothing that dulls color-treated hair faster than using the wrong shampoo and conditioner. Many are far too astringent and not only do not aid in preserving the color treatment, but actually shorten its longevity. I color treat my hair a couple of time a year, and given that I have naturally curly hair that has a tendency to be dry– I have to be very careful to select nourishing shampoos, conditioners and styling products.

I have had such great success with DermOrganic products that I was thrilled by the prospect of trying their Color Care line and their Pure Argan Oil. After having used them for several weeks, I am ready to weigh in, and let you know how well these products work for my color treated curly hair.

DermOrganic Color Care Sulfate-Free Shampoo ($18.00 for 12 oz. from Ulta): This is an ultra-luxe, rich and creamy shampoo that achieves a velvety lather without stripping color-treated tresses. It smoothes and moisturizes hair, fights frizz and leaves hair remarkably manageable and shiny. It has a mild herbal/citrus aroma that is very pleasant, but it doesn't linger or interfere with any fragrances that you might wear.

According to DermOrganic,

Gentle cleansing cream made with mild skin cleansers to gently lift away dirt and oils while preserving the life of hair color. 100% sulfate free. Ultra-mild cleanser seals in shine. Hair color stays vibrant and retains a lasting tone. Low pH formula keeps the hair cuticle closed and hair color pigments in. Smoothes each hair strand to maintain a lively texture and lustrous shine. 

Made with 7 certified organic ingredients including argan oil, moisturizing EFA lipids and restorative rice amino acids that infuse the hair with needed nourishment each time you shampoo. Maintains a color radiating balance between moisture and protein for long term health and manageability. Includes anti-oxidant vitamins A & E with sunflower and grape seed, natural color-protecting UV inhibitors to preserve and prolong the life of your color. 70% total organic content exceeds California organic cosmetic products (COPA) standards for organic cosmetics.

Benefits:

• Made with 70% organic ingredients.
• Gentle cream cleanser: A rich, luxurious lather that reinforces the hair's protective layers.
• Protects and enlivens: Reveals vibrant color tones and restores a supple radiance to salon-treated hair.
• Made without sulfates, salt, sodium chloride, artificial preservatives, parabens, PABA, propylene glycol, petroleum, MEA, DEA, colors or dyes.
• Low pH formula: Seals the hair cuticle to secure color pigments. Conditions hair to a smooth, lustrous texture.
• Made with organic nutrients: Includes moisture-packed lipids and hydrolyzed rice protein to deliver strength and resilience.
• With sunflower and grape seed extracts: Natural anti-fade solar shields to maximize the life of your hair color.
• It's organic!: With 70% total organic content, it's a conscientious, high-performance product for salons that care the most about hair.
• Cruelty free & vegan. 

Ingredients: Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aqua/Eau/Water, Disodium Cocoyl Gluta-mate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Methyl Gluceth-20, Organic Argania Spinosa Argan Kernel Oil, Rice Amino Acids, PCA, Panthenol B5, Organic Helianthus Annuus Sunflower Seed Extract, Organic Vitis Vinifera Grape Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Organic Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Orange Peel Extract, Organic Chamomilla Recutita Matri-caria Extract, Organic Cucumis Sativus Cucumber Fruit Extract, Organic Salix Alba Willow Bark Extract, All Natural Preservative Propanediol/Phenethyl Alcohol Aromatic Extract/Benzoic Acid Food Grade, Parfum/Fragrance.

DermOrganic Color Care Conditioner ($18.00 for 12 oz. from Ulta): If you seek a conditioner that is emollient and moisturizing enough to enable you to get a comb through unruly hair, then this is definitely a conditioner worthy of your attention. Not only is this a very nourishing and hydrating conditioner that fights frizz, makes hair manageable and detangled, but it also creates shiny, soft and supple hair. It enhances the longevity of color-treatments, but it is so gentle that it is the type of conditioner that I would use even when my hair isn't color treated. It has the same mild herbal/citrus aroma as its companion shampoo, and its scent also doesn't linger or interfere with any fragrances that you might wear.

According to DermOrganic,

DermOrganic Color Care Conditioner is made from wholesome ingredients that improve manageability while enhancing hair color luminosity. Eliminates tangles and improves styling manageability. Hair color stays vibrant and retains a lasting color tone. Low pH formula closes the hair cuticle to keep color pigments in place. Leaves each hair strand smooth, maintaining lustrous shine and youthful, elastic texture. Made with 7 organic ingredients including argan oil, moisturizing EFA Lipids and restorative rice amino acids that infuse the hair with needed nourishment. Maintains a color radiating balance between moisture and protein for long term health and manageability. Includes anti-oxidant vitamins A & E with sunflower and grape seed, natural color-protecting UV inhibitors to preserve and prolong the life of your color. 73% total organic content exceeds California organic cosmetic products (COPA) standards for organic cosmetics.

Benefits:

• Made with 73% organic ingredients
• A nourishing cream rinse: Restores supple radiance to color-treated hair.
• Eliminates tangles: Improves manageability and provides for easier brushing, combing and styling.
• Prevents fly-away hair: Eliminates static, reduces friction, and guards against the assaulting heat of professional styling tools.
• Low pH formula: Seals the hair cuticle to secure color pigments. Conditions treated hair to a smooth, lustrous texture.
• Made without sulfates, salt, sodium chloride, artificial preservatives, parabens, PABA, propylene glycol, petroleum, MEA, DEA, colors or dyes
• Made with organic nutrients: Including moisture-packed lipids and hydrolyzed rice protein to restore strength and resilience to salon-treated hair.
• With sunflower and grape seed extracts: Natural anti-fade solar shields to maximize the life of your hair color.
• It's organic!: With 73% total organic content, it's a conscientious, high-performance product for salons that care the most about hair.
• Cruelty free & vegan. 

Ingredients: Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aqua/Eau/Water, Caprylic/Capric Trigly-ceride, Stearalkonium Chloride, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Organic Argania Spinosa Argan Kernel Oil, Panthenol B5, Rice Amino Acids, Methyl Gluceth-20, PCA, Tocopheryl Acetate, Organic Helianthus Annuus Sunflower Seed Extract, Organic Vitis Vinifera Grape Seed Extract, Organic Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Orange Peel Extract, Organic Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Extract, Organic Cucumis Sativus Cucumber Fruit Extract, Organic Salix Alba Willow Bark Extract, All Natural Preservative Pro-Panediol/Phenethyl Alcohol Aromatic Extract/Benzoic Acid Food Grade, Parfum/Fragrance.

DermOrganic Color Care 8-Way Thermal Spray ($18.00 for 4 oz. from Ulta): On the rare occasions that I blow dry my hair, I always make sure to use a thermal finishing spray for an added layer of protection between my hair and the hair dryer. Even when I don't use styling tools, I almost always use some sort of leave-in spray for added protection and moisture. DermOrganic Color Care 8-Way Thermal Spray does an exemplary job taming frizz, eliminating tangles, and allowing me to get a brush or comb through my hair. Furthermore, it nourishes, hydrates and leaves my hair with a lovely shine. It has the same mild herbal/citrus aroma as its companion shampoo and conditioner, and its scent doesn't linger or interfere with any fragrances that you might wish to wear.

According to DermOrganic,

DermOrganic 8 Way Thermal Spray is a heat-activated leave-in spray that protects and improves the health of well-worn hair. Made with 7 organic ingredients including argan oil, moisturizing EFA lipids and restorative rice amino acids that infuse the hair with needed nourishment.

Benefits:

• Heat protection up to 450 degrees
• Eliminates tangles and improves brushability
• Closes cuticle to lock in hair color
• Smoothes frizz and controls flyaway hair
• Seals in shine while repairing and preventing split ends
• Strengthens damaged hair and restores elasticity
• Infuses natural hydration for a moisture balanced texture
• 73% total certified organic content.
• Guards against chlorine, wind and other environmental assaults
• Cruelty free & vegan
• Made without sulfates, salt, sodium chloride, artificial preservatives, parabens, PABA, propylene glycol, petroleum, MEA, DEA, colors or dyes. 

Ingredients: Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aqua/Eau/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Stearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyquaternium-10, PCA, Organic Argania Spinosa Argan Kernel Oil, Methyl Gluceth-20, Rice Amino Acids, Panthenol B5, Dimethicone, Organic Vitis Vinifera Grape Seed Extract, Organic Helianthus Annuus Sunflower Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Organic Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Extract, All Natural Preservative Propanediol/Phenethyl Alcohol Aromatic Extract/Benzoic Acid Food Grade, Parfum/Fragrance.

DermOrganic Pure Argan Oil ($38.00 for 1.7 oz. from Ulta): Given my penchant for beauty oils, it should come as no surprise that I am particularly excited about this multi-purpose Argan Oil. I have used it from head to toe.

This is a lightweight and fast absorbing oil that deeply nourishes the skin– leaving it soft, supple, hydrated and with an unmistakable luminosity. I simply apply it to warm, slightly damp, freshly washed skin, and it does not leave behind any greasy residue.

This can be applied to damp or dry hair to condition the scalp, smooth and condition the hair and to eliminate frizz, to add shine and to leave hair soft and shiny. There is no detectable fragrance to this ultra-nourishing Argan Oil.

According to DermOrganic,

DermOrganic 100% Pure Argan Oil is an organic natural moisturizer rich in vitamin E & lipids. This affordable luxury delivers superior performance wherever and however used. On the skin it is an exceptional full-body oil and after-bath moisturizer that leaves soft, radiant and smooth skin. On the face, use it as a base moisturizer to improve radiance, hide fine lines, soften and improve firmness. On hair it will smooth frizz and impart a natural looking softness and shine. 

Apply it as needed to calm troubled areas and irritation, or on the hands and nails as a luxurious cuticle oil that helps prevent cracking and peeling. DermOrganic Argan Oil is 100% pure, organic, fair trade sourced in Morocco. The bottle itself is made from recycled plastic.

Benefits:

• Organic 100% pure Moroccan argan oil. 
• Fair Trade & sustainable sources. 
• Deodorized. 
• Vegan. 
• No animal testing. 
• No artificial preservatives. 
• Gluten-free. No sodium chloride, salt, MEA, DEA or dyes. Paraben free & propylene glycol free. pH Balanced.

Ingredients: Organic Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernal Oil).

Overall Assessment: I am very impressed by the efficacy of the Color Care line and the Pure Argan Oil, and I like them so much that I will definitely purchase replacements as soon as I finish these up. If you have color treated hair, or are simple seeking gentle, non-stripping products– then these DermOrganic products are most definitely worth your consideration. A+

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2016 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Empties Post Volume XVIII: February 2014 Edition

I was rather surprised that I used up so many full size products this month-- particularly since February is a short month. My biggest achievements were surprisingly with haircare products and makeup.

I managed to finish up my bottle of DermOrganic Intensive Repair Hair Masque (reviewed here). It is a lovely hair masque that did wonders for my naturally curly hair, and it is one that I will happily replace once I make my way through a few of my haircare products.

I also managed to finish up the DermOrganic Leave-In Treatment (reviewed here). This is a wonderful silicone and argan oil based product that does wonders for taming frizzy fly-away prone hair. I have many other similar products in my haircare arsenal right now, but will once again happily replace this once I have the need for this type of produce.

Tom's of Maine Sensitive Beauty Bar with Soothing Chamomile (reviewed here). I really loved this soap. I took to using it in the shower from my shoulders to my toes, and found it gentle and emollient enough to use for shaving. A definite repurchase.

Clarins UV Plus Ecran Multi-Protection SPF 40 (reviewed here). This remains one of my all-time favorite sunscreens. I apply it first thing in the morning, but my reapplications throughout the day are now done with Goldfaden MD Sun Visor Ultra Light Oil Free SPF 30 Mist (reviewed here) because this miraculous sunscreen mist does not disturb your makeup!

Aubrey Honeysuckle Rose Shampoo and Conditioner (discussed here): While I have never published an in-depth review of these beauties I have repurchased them many many many times over the years. They make my hair soft with shiny happy curls, and the scent evokes a spring stroll in a beautifully fragrant garden. I will definitely repurchase them before long!

80 Acres of McEvoy Ranch Verde Olive Oil Bar Soap (reviewed here). This smells and feels so good that I have to buy more! It is so emollient and moisturizing that it keeps my hands and body hydrated and happy!

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel (overview here). This Two-Step maintenance program is so fabulous that a few sample packets was all I needed to convince me that buying a huge box was in order!

I don't usually include hand soaps in my Empties posts, but I really loved the Seventh Generation Mandarin Hand Soap so much that I had to include it. I found it on sale at the grocery store and purchased several bottles. Even during the colder months it didn't dry out my hands!

Of the samples used the two that were the most noteworthy were the Radical Skincare Youth Infusion Serum and the Aesop Damascan Rose Facial Treatment. These two are so fantastic that I have already purchased the Aesop Damascan Rose Facial Treatment, and the Radical Skincare Youth Infusion Serum is on my short list of must-haves.

Undoubtedly my biggest achievement was finishing up 7 makeup products (6 full sized products and 1 sample). On the "regular use" side I used up a sample size of Armani Maestro (I have a full-size bottle), and a Chanel Glossimer in Unity. Unity was already nearly finished up so I decided to use the last bits this month. The other five products illustrate my victorious "dent" in 5 out of the 9 products featured in my series Project Make-A-Dent (#projectmakeadent) learn more about this my series here. I managed to finish up a Rouge Coco Shine in Royallieu, a Chanel Glossimer in Glaze, a Rouge Bunny Rouge Tinted Moisturizer, a Covergirl Liquiline Eye Pencil, and a Chanel Lip Pencil in Beige. Therefore, I think that it is safe to say that I am very pleased with the number of Empties that I generated in February!

What did you finish up, toss, give away, or return in February?

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

Empties Post Volume XVII: January 2014 Edition

January proved to be the month of moisturizing for me, and you can see by my empties that I managed to finish up three full-size creams/lotions. I slathered lotions, creams and oils on my body all month long because of the cooler weather (and the big shifts from warm days to cold nights). I also used up lots of haircare samples that were crowding up my samples drawer.

The Highlights:

Kai Body Butter (reviewed here): I am still wildly in love with this delightful scent. Their Body Butter is so rich and emollient that it works wonders on dry winter skin while the scent evokes tropical days frolicking in the sun. You don't even need to ask, I am already working on another jar!

Trader Joe's Coconut Body Butter (reviewed here): I love this rich and thick coconut scented body butter. I kept this jar on my desk and dutifully used it every day, and it kept dry winter skin at bay.

Surya Brasil Amazonia Preciosa Hand & Body Lotion (reviewed here): Amazonia Preciosa Hand & Body Lotion is a lovely lightweight lotion that sinks in quickly but leaves skin soft, silky and unmistakably moisturized. I used this down to the very last drop!

Tom's of Maine Daily Moisture Beauty Bar with Olive Oil and Vitamin E (reviewed here): This is a super hydrating beauty bar that leaves skin very soft, silky and hydrated. I even used it for shaving since it was gentle and moisturizing enough to nourish the skin while creamy enough to get a close shave.

DermOrganic Daily Conditioning Shampoo (reviewed here): This sulfate-free formula is gentle and very conditioning. It does not strip the hair in the least bit, but it does have a lovely lather. I loved this shampoo right to the bottom of the bottle.

Gold Sakura Facial Cleansing Foam Shirasu Line (reviewed here): You will notice that this tube is a bit tattered courtesy of Lucy who managed to bring it back to her hoarder's lair to chew on for a while before I found and reclaimed it! This is a deeply cleansing facial wash that leaves skin baby soft. It's lovely used alone, but extraordinary when paired with a Clarisonic.

Mario Badescu Seaweed Cleansing Lotion (reviewed here): This is my very favorite toner because it is so effective and gentle, and it contains no alcohol.

Dr. Sebagh Eye Primer Lift Eye Contour Gel: I normally wouldn't even bother to comment on a single small sample packet, but I really liked this eye gel a lot. It is thicker gel that deeply moisturizes the delicate eye area. I want to get another couple of packets to try it a while longer, but I was impressed enough that I am contemplating its purchase.

Radical Skincare Peptide Infused Antioxidant Serum (review forthcoming): I am just about ready to review this lovely serum, and have already made quite a dent in my full size bottle. I can say without reservation that it is extraordinary.

Radical Skincare Anti-Aging Replenishing Extreme Moisture (review forthcoming): I covet my big jar of this amazing face cream. It is, without question, my very favorite cream to date. Radical Skincare is a true game changer, and if they make it I will use it!

Hair samples: Sachajuan, Bumble and Bumble, Rahua, Philip B: I didn't use any of these products long enough to determine how effective they were long term-- therefore I don't really have much to say about them.

What did you use, toss, give away or return in January?

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

Empties Post Volume XV: October 2013 Edition

October was a very good month for finishing up a lot of full-sized products. Truthfully I'm not quite sure how I managed to finish up so many products this month. I was aware that I was getting close on many of the things featured here, but was caught off guard when I hit the last pump on the two My serums and the Dr. Brandt Glow Overnight Resurfacing Serum. Because those three are housed in air-free opaque pump containers I really never knew what was left in the bottles until they simply stopped dispensing product!

The HYD For Men Shave Cream (reviewed here) is a wonderful creamy and moisturizing shave cream that is just lovely to use. While it belonged to my husband, I did dip into it on more than one occasion because I liked it so much! 

The La Roche-Posay Solution Micellaire Physiologique (reviewed here) is a nice cleansing water, but I would prefer it to be completely fragrance free. I still prefer the Koh Gen Do Spa Cleansing Water-- I have yet to find anything that compares to this lovely product!

DermOrganic Daily Hydrating Conditioner with Argan Oil (reviewed here): This is a wonderfully moisturizing conditioner that works wonders on my naturally curly hair. I will definitely be purchasing a replacement bottle.

Michael O'Rourke Rock Your Hair Leave-In Conditioner Weightless Detangler (reviewed here): Don't let the whimsical packaging fool you- this is a highly effective Leave-In Conditioner. I will definitely be purchasing a replacement bottle!

Painted Earth Blueberry Cranberry Oxygen Scrub (reviewed here): This is a very very nice face scrub, and I liked it so much on my face that I tried it on my body (and what a treat that was!).

Dr. Hauschka SPF 30 Sunscreen Cream for Children and Sensitive Skin: This is a nice sunscreen, but it had become quite old (and no doubt had expired) so after one last spin I emptied the last little bit into the garbage and recycled the tube.

Tom Ford Jasmine Rouge Eau de Parfum sample: I am actually quite fond of this scent. It is far too sharp when I first apply it, but once it settles in it is quite lovely.

Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel (reviewed here): This is a highly effective non-foaming cleanser that is gentle while being highly effective. It removes dead skin cells effortlessly and leaves skin so silky smooth. It is unquestionably one of my Holy Grail cleansers!

Mario Badescu Seaweed Cleansing Lotion (reviewed here): Another hit by Mario Badescu!! This is a gentle alcohol-free toner that has become my very favorite toner. On the rare occasions that I am too tired to wash my face- I saturate a cotton ball with this toner and it removes every trace of makeup (not made for eye makeup removal) and leaves my skin feeling wonderful!

Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Eye Cream (reviewed here): This is an excellent moisturizing eye cream that is light, quick absorbing, and highly effective! 

Mario Badescu Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 17: This is very moisturizing oil free moisturizer that is great for combination or oily skin types. 

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Extra Strength Formula (overview here): This two-step at home peel is amazing. I only have a few packets left, and find this system so effective that I plan to buy the biggest box that they make during Sephora's upcoming F&F or VIB sale!

The Organic Pharmacy Collagen Boost Mask (reviewed here): I think at this point that it has become fairly obvious that I am thoroughly obsessed with everything that I have tried from The Organic Pharmacy, and their Collagen Boost Mask is just as amazing as you might imagine! It tightens, lifts and brightens the skin- giving your face an instant radiance and glow. I love this mask, and often use it as a serum!

Radical Skincare Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads: Radical Skincare is utterly amazing (stay tuned- I will be reviewing many products from the line soon). Their Age-Defying Exfoliating pads are highly effective, and brilliantly conceived. One side of the round disk has a rougher texture (but not too rough) to encourage the exfoliation of dead skin cells, and the other side is smooth to whisk away those dead cells and even out the surface of the skin. This is an amazing product.

Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream: Nice, but I didn't find it particularly unique. 

Armani Maestro Eraser Concealer sample packet: I love this concealer and have a full-size tube. One of these days I will get around to reviewing it. It spreads easily and doesn't cake up or settle into fine lines. The texture is very nice and smooth.

Kiss My Face Cucumber Green Tea Deodorant: Gentle, lovely, effective, and not filled with potentially harmful chemicals. I have replaced this several times, and will continue to buy it!

TATCHA Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil (reviewed here): Absolutely divine! This is an amazing cleansing oil. It is so effective at removing every trace of makeup, and it so thoroughly cleanses the skin  that you really don't need to double cleanse. I love TATCHA products!

My Dynamic Lifting Serum (reviewed here): This is a lovely gel-based lifting serum that absorbs quickly and has a definite lifting and firming effect on the skin. A lovely product from an amazing line!

My Skin Recovery Formula (reviewed here): This is an amazing lightweight skin-brightening serum that targets damaged skin to even out skin-tone, restore radiance, promote firmness, and diminishes the appearance of acne scarring, age or sunspots, and wrinkles. This is a wonderfully hardworking serum filled with all sorts of healthy ingredients! A+

Dr. Brandt Glow Overnight Resurfacing Serum with 2% Active Retinol (reviewed here): This is a very nice nighttime retinol based serum, and despite the high percentage of retinol it never caused my skin to peel. I really like this product, but the next retinol-based product that I plan to try is prescription Retin-A because I want to experience the difference between the over-the-counter and prescription versions.

What did you finish, toss, give away, or return in October? Anything that you will repurchase?

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

Empties Post Volume XIV: September 2013 Edition

September seemed to whirl by at an unprecedented pace, and has frankly left me scratching my head wondering where the time went. I didn't produce piles of empties because I was testing lots of new products, but I did manage to get through a few things.

I did finish up 3 full size products, but in truth 2 of these things have been nearly empty for a while. The Trader Joe's Moisturizing Cream Shave in Honey Mango is a longtime favorite that I will continue to buy as long as they make it. It is smooth, moisturizing, and affordable. The Dermorganic Windswept Defining Whip is a fabulous styling product that helps to define curls without leaving them crunchy or flaky. I love this product! I actually whimpered when I finished up my last tube of Erno Laszlo Sea Mud Exfoliating Mask since being told that it had been discontinued. I have used this as long as I can remember, and it has to be my all-time favorite mud mask.

My sample use this month was hardly prolific, but still I managed to use up a few things. The Burberry Body Eau de parfum actually fell and broke on the bathroom floor- therefore I mopped it up with the bath mat. I also had a small tester of a Marula Oil from Sephora that seems nice, but there wasn't enough to use it long enough to form a real opinion. I also used up a sample of the REN Active 7 Radiant Eye Gel which is a lovely eye gel. I kept it in the refrigerator and used it as a refreshing treat. It offers a nice amount of moisture and it brightens the under eye area. I also used up a sample size of the Mario Badescu Seaweed Cleansing Lotion which has fast become my very favorite toner. It is a gentle alcohol-free toner that refreshes the skin, but never strips it. I keep my full-size bottle in the bathroom cabinet, but I always store a sample size bottle in the refrigerator to use whenever I want a refreshing pick-me-up. I also used up a sample of the Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel which is on my short list of the top cleansers that I have in my stash. It is a non-foaming cleanser that leaves the skin soft, smooth, supple, and it effectively removes dead skin. I love everything about this cleanser. I also used up my last packet of the Aesop Parsley Seed Serum, but really didn't use it long enough to form an opinion.

What did you finish up, toss out, giveaway, or return in September?

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

Empties Post Volume XII: July 2013 Edition

This was the month of haircare products and sample packets, to say the least. I travelled a lot in July and tried to use plenty of samples- despite the fact that I also carried some full size and deluxe sized samples on my various trips. I figured that I had a huge pile of samples and this would be a great way to use them up and travel lighter.

Haircare Products: What a victorious use of full size hair care products for me- I actually surprised myself in my ability to finish up a few things before opening up  new bottles.

I loved the DermOrganic Leave in Spray Therapy (reviewed here) because it leaves my hair soft, shiny and manageable. It is definitely on my repurchase list.

Surya Organics is an amazing line, and I used every last drop of their Amazonia Preciosa Shampoo (reviewed here) and their Revitalizing Hair Mask (reviewed here). I have been thoroughly impressed by their products and will definitely continue to use them. Their haircare products are natural, healthy, effective, and so pleasant to use. Their aromas delight the senses.

Ouidad Botanical Boost Moisture Infusing & Refreshing Spray is a fantastic detangler that adds moisture and revives curls. I really love this spray, and have in general found Ouidad to be fantastic on my naturally curly hair.

Skincare & Body Care Products: Can you believe how many samples that I used in July?! There weren't any major misses in the pile, and I do have a few of these things in their full sized counterparts, but I'm also not motivated to run out and buy most of what I tried either. At this point I am only compelled to buy The Organic Pharmacy Flower Petal Deep Cleanser & Mask (reviewed here. A couple of those empty pots were samples of this amazingly effective miracle mask) because I am completely obsessed with it. 

The Organic Pharmacy Collagen Boost Mask (Detailed review forthcoming. Affiliate link): This stuff is so great it earned a separate picture! This is my new love and discovery from a line that has established pride of place in my heart. Everything that I have tried from them is astonishingly effective, free of unhealthy ingredients, and glorious to use. This pile is about 16 or 17 sample packets- I used up several of them, but placed the remainder in an airtight pump bottle to keep it fresh longer. I am definitely going to purchase a bottle of this and their amazing Flower Petal Deep Cleanser & Mask very very soon! The Organic Pharmacy is undoubtedly one of the best skincare lines that I have tried in many many years.

According to The Organic Pharmacy,
More an instant boost than a mask, this Aloe and Seaweed gel is packed full of potent antioxidants to instantly lift, tighten and brighten the complexion Use at least twice a week or daily during summer months.ã Super potencies of Alpha Lipoic Acid, DMAE and CoQ10 with anti-ageing herbs of Horsetail, Ginseng and Propolis are just some of the ingredients in this amazing gel.

I have been using this mask on a daily basis since it is the summer, and it really does lift, tighten and brighten! I am buying a bottle very soon. The Organic Pharmacy is quickly becoming my favorite skincare company!

All in all I am quite pleased with my pile of empties this month! What did you use up, toss, or give away this month?

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

DermOrganic Argan Oil Infused Haircare- Part II: Styling Product Reviews

DermOrganic is a fantastic company that offers beautiful Argan Oil infused haircare products that are sure to wow you from the moment that you first try them. I am a huge fan of Argan Oil, and have been using it in my hair for years, but I am now delighted to have found a line that uses it in all of their products. This line will work well for all hair types, but as a girl with naturally curly hair I have to say that it is a breath of fresh air to find a line that is so sensitive to the needs of hair like mine. In using all of their products I have noticed that my hair is soft and silky, my curls are nicely formed, I have no fly-aways or frizz, and it detangles my hair without any trouble whatsoever. What's not to love?! 

According to DermOrganic, "we believe the ingredients we don’t use are just as important as the ones we do."

Benefits:

DermOrganic® products are all vegan.

DermOrganic® products made without animal by-products and are never tested on animals.

DermOrganic® products contain no sulfates, glycols, DEA, MEA, dyes or food coloring

DermOrganic® products are Gluten-free

DermOrganic® products contain no artificial preservatives. Paraben-free

DermOrganic® products are made without salt, sodium chloride or other artificial thickeners

According to the company, "DermOrganic Laboratories, Inc. was founded in 1996 with a goal to provide safe, top-performing products to the international community of hair and skin professionals. 

While the average person may use hair and skin products once a day, professional cosmetologists are exposed to those ingredients dozens of times a day for an entire career." It is therefore part of their mission to utilize ingredients that they "believe to be safe and effective, developing superior performing products that contain far fewer ingredients than are found in standard personal care formulations."

They understand that their customers are very "concerned about what they put on their hair and skin, or who are prone to negative reactions from standard hair and skin care ingredients," and their products are sure to please people who are looking for high quality haircare products filled with so many high quality ingredients.

Click here to see my reviews of their cleansing, conditioning and treatment products.

Part II: Styling Products:

1) Texture Taffy (3.4 oz. $17.00)- "Define, shape and texturize with this flexible fibrous paste. Create interchangeable styles and layered looks with ease." Additionally, "Texture Taffy also protects against UV damage and dry, itchy scalp. There's no artificial thickening agents to cause flaking or stickiness. So go ahead and spike it up! Don't fear humidity. Texture Taffy has that covered perfectly as well as the fading factor. No fading or sticky styles for you when you use Dermorganics Texture Taffy. Healthy organic Argan Oil and well hydrated hair always produce a perfectly spiked hairstyle."

Texture Taffy is absolutely the perfect product for short spiked hairstyles that require superior hold that will last all day. It offers an abundance of texture, but remains flexible rather than stiff. It is a fantastic and very effective styling product, but use it sparingly. It is a very thick and dense product, and a little goes a very long way. If you have long hair and seek superior hold, then apply a little at a time- otherwise it will feel a bit sticky, and you will likely want to rinse it out and start over. Used properly this a fantastic styling product.

Features:

Pliable and fibrous
For manipulating layered looks
Textured styling without stiffness
Superior memory, flexible control
Design and redefine

Directions: For texture, definition and control, place desired amount in palms, emulsify, then work into damp or dry hair to style. Hint: Emulsify in your hands for the level of control you want.

Ingredients: Aqua/Eau/Water, Glycerin, Ozokerite, Caprylic-/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Oleth-5, Oleth-3 Phosphate, Oleth-10-Phosphate,Methyl Gluceth-20, Dimethiconal, VP/VA Copolymer, Carnauba Wax, Rice Amino Acids, PEG-45M, Methyl Glucose, Sesquistearate, Panthenol B5, Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E), Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Vitus Vinifera (grape) seed extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Natural Fragrance (parfum), Glycereth-2 Cocoate/Benzoic Acid

2) Firm Hold Volume Foam (5 oz. $15.00)- "is an ecologically friendly thick hair mousse. Aerosol-free foam spreads easily into hair to provide incredible root lift, curl support, and lustrous, voluminous styles. Alcohol-free goodness for your hair and the air."

This is a really fantastic styling mousse! I was initially apprehensive to try this one because I assumed that it was going to be more of a volumizing mousse rather than a curl defining product. That would be fine if I had hair in desperate need of volume, but with naturally curly hair the last thing that I need is to encourage yet more volume! The first time that I tried Firm Hold Volume Foam, I was completely prepared to immediately rinse it out of my hair because I expected that my hair would end up looking like big hair from the 80s. However, much to my delight this styling foam defined my curls and made them soft and shiny-- no poofy 80s hair for me. It enhances natural curl and gives it great hold, but it still has bounce and movement. This is a superior quality product!

Features:
Defines curls and waves
Volume, support and shine
Non-aerosol enviro-mousse
Alcohol-free
Suitable for all hair types
Humidity-resistant, heat-resistant
Maintains style after brushing
Made with 3 UV inhibitors
Enriched with Omega-6, Lipids, Antioxidants, Vitamin E and Natural Moisture Factors
Environmentally Friendly Mousse Dispenser
Defines Curls & Waves

Ingredients: Aqua/Eau/Water, PVP Copolymer, Alkylpolyglucosides, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Polysorbate-20, Methyl Gluceth-20, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Organic Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Organic Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (UV Inhibitors), Rice Amino Acids, PCA, Panthenol B5, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Glycereth-2 Cocoate & Benzoic Acid, Parfum/Fragrance.

3) Fast Dry Shaping Spray (1.5 oz. $8.00)- "DermOrganic Fast Dry Shaping Spray outperforms your favorite 80s hairspray! Plus hold formula dries on contact. Fine mist for inside-out support maintains shapes even after brushing. Not sticky or heavy, sets hair quickly for all-day style support."

I generally don't bother with hairspray because I like for my hair to look and feel natural, but this hairspray, while highly effective, does not leave your hair looking and feeling like a plastic cap. In fact, I really like this hairspray and have been using it a lot! It leaves the hair looking and feeling natural, but maintains your desired hairstyle! Their claims that it is humidity resistant, and that your hair maintains its shape after brushing is absolutely true! This is a really really nice hairspray!

Features:
Plus hold formula
Made without added water
Dries on contact
Maintains shapes after brushing
Brushes through while blow-dry styling
Ultra fine mist for inside-out support
All-day hold for all hair types
Humidity resistant and color safe
With anti-fade extracts to protect color
Waterless Fast Dry Formula!
Maintains Shapes After Brushing

Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Hydrofluorocarbon 152a, Isobutane, Octylacrylamide/ Acrylates/Butylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer, VA/Crotonates/Vinyl Neodecanoate Copolymer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Triethyl Citrate, PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone, Glycerin, Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa), PCA, Rice Amino Acids, Grape Seed Extract (Vitis Vinifera) & Sunflower Seed Extract (Helianthus Annuus) & Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Color Protectants), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Parfum/Fragrance.

4) Windswept Defining Whip (4 oz. $15.95)- "A lightweight style enhancer that provides definition to curls and spring to their bounce. Separates, controls frizz, nourishes and maintains irresistibly smooth, dynamic hair styles."

This is a fantastic styling product for curly hair. It separates and defines curls without leaving the hair crunchy feeling or dull. Instead, it beautifully controls the frizz while leaving curls beautifully formed with natural bounce and body. My hair feels and looks soft, shiny and absolutely gorgeous. The texture of the product is quite light, and therefore never leaves my hair weighed down or dull. If I had to choose just one styling product, this would be it.

Features:
Separates and defines
Adds bounce and movement
Controls frizz
Definition without crispness
Smooth, supple hair

Directions: Dab and emulsify into hands, massage lightly through damp hair from the nape forward before diffusing. For a more relaxed style, let hair dry naturally.

Ingredients: Aqua/Eau/Water, Stearic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ozokerite, Glycerin, Cetearyl/Alcohol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Oleth-5, Oleth-10 Phosphate, Rice Amino Acids, Hydroxypropyl Guar, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Panthenol B5, Dimethiconol, Argania Spinosa (Argan), Kernel Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Natural fragrance (parfum), Glycereth-2 Cocoate/Benzoic Acid.

Overall assessment: DermOrganic styling products are fabulous for all hair types, but they are so forgiving and nourishing for curly hair. I love that all of the products are infused with Argan oil- so even when I am styling my hair it is being nourished.

Available at Ulta.
PR samples sent for consideration. All views expressed are categorically my own.
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