Monarch Botanika Facial Moisturizer Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Monarch Botanika Facial Moisturizer is the second product that I have tried from this wonderful eco-conscious brand, and it works perfectly with the Monarch Botanika Facial Cleanser (Reviewed HERE).

No Animal Testing, Plant-Based ingredients, Sulfate and Paraben Free, Phthalate and Petroleum Free, Mineral Oil Free, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Milkweed, Vegan.

About the cause:

The brilliantly colorful and majestic Monarch butterfly is a true wonder of the world and American icon. Weighing less than a dime, the Monarch travels an astonishing 3,000 miles during its migration - a journey that takes generations to complete.

Sadly, over the last two decades, the Monarch butterfly’s overall population has declined by more than 90 percent — leaving the species at serious risk of extinction.

At Monarch Botanika, we believe in doing more than just creating exceptional skincare products. We're dedicated to standing by a mission that's close to our hearts: conserving the Monarch Butterfly. We understand that the key to saving this magnificent species lies in the Milkweed plant, and we've woven it into the very fabric of our products.

Our skincare line proudly features Milkweed Seed Oil, a botanical treasure with untold potential for Monarch conservation. Each seed is meticulously hand-collected and responsibly harvested, ensuring the protection of vital habitat. The oil is naturally pressed without resorting to chemical refining methods, preserving its purity and efficacy.

By embracing the value of a plant often dismissed as a mere weed, we're not only crafting exceptional skincare but also encouraging the cultivation of Milkweed. This, in turn, offers new, invaluable habitat for Monarchs to rebuild their populations. Every Monarch Botanika product you choose is not just a step toward healthier, radiant skin; it's a vote for a brighter future, where the Monarchs thrive once more.

Monarch Botanika Facial Moisturizer is a very lightweight and fast absorbing moisturizer that immediately melts into the skin, and it leaves behind no greasy residue whatsoever. It is very concentrated, and therefore only a very small amount needs to be used for the face, neck and décolleté. It nourishes the skin and leaves it soft, smooth, supple, hydrated and luminous. It contains Eucalyptus, Spearmint and Peppermint, and I was concerned that it might irritate my skin and make my sensitive eyes water, but it didn't. The aroma is subtle, refreshing and it dissipates quickly.

According to Monarch Botanika,

Suitable for all skin types but is an exceptional choice for moisturizing sensitive skin prone to breakouts, redness and irritation. It is a clean, refreshing scent for all genders.

Our facial moisturizer is enriched with a premium and distinctive Milkweed Seed Oil boasting Omega 6, 9, and 7 (Omega 7 is rarely found in plants). Cold-pressed with a commitment to natural purity, without the use of petroleum extraction methods.

Crafted to moisturize and establish a silky natural moisture barrier, our unique formulation featuring Aloe, Eucalyptus, Spearmint, and Peppermint ensures a hydrating and healing touch that reduces redness and irritation. Never sticky or greasy, this moisturizer effortlessly absorbs, leaving your skin refreshed and revitalized.

This facial moisturizer is designed to work on all skin types, even sensitive skin and those prone to breakouts and irritation. Infused with the exceptional Omega 7, mirroring the sebum present in youthful skin, our formula ensures moisturized skin without the concern of triggering breakouts.

Monarch Botanika stands as a unique skincare brand in partnership with Native Monarchs, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of Monarch butterflies and their declining populations. Directly contributing to the cause, 5% of all sales support ongoing conservation efforts for Monarchs and Pollinators. Experience skincare for Earth’s preservation – Where Beauty Meets Conservation!

Directions: Apply a pea-sized amount to freshly cleansed skin, distributing evenly over face and neck. A little goes a long way. Avoid immediate eye area. For external use only.

Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Asclepias (Milkweed) Seed Oil, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Tocopheryl Acetate, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Menthol, Xylitol, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitylgluco- side, Dimethiconol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Fragrance. *Certified organic ingredient.

Overall Assessment: I love Monarch Botanika's commitment to Monarch Butterfly conservation, and their products are truly excellent as well. This is a brand that needs to be on your radar. A+

$37.00 for 2 oz. from Monarch Botanika and their Amazon Store. Duo with their Facial  Cleanser $65.00 from Monarch Botanika and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2024 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Monarch Botanika Facial Cleanser Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I was recently introduced to the skincare brand Monarch Botanika, and I am so excited to share their mission and their products with you. Their belief in Monarch Butterfly Conservation is build into the very fabric of their skincare brand.

About the cause:

The brilliantly colorful and majestic Monarch butterfly is a true wonder of the world and American icon. Weighing less than a dime, the Monarch travels an astonishing 3,000 miles during its migration - a journey that takes generations to complete.

Sadly, over the last two decades, the Monarch butterfly’s overall population has declined by more than 90 percent — leaving the species at serious risk of extinction.

At Monarch Botanika, we believe in doing more than just creating exceptional skincare products. We're dedicated to standing by a mission that's close to our hearts: conserving the Monarch Butterfly. We understand that the key to saving this magnificent species lies in the Milkweed plant, and we've woven it into the very fabric of our products.

Our skincare line proudly features Milkweed Seed Oil, a botanical treasure with untold potential for Monarch conservation. Each seed is meticulously hand-collected and responsibly harvested, ensuring the protection of vital habitat. The oil is naturally pressed without resorting to chemical refining methods, preserving its purity and efficacy.

By embracing the value of a plant often dismissed as a mere weed, we're not only crafting exceptional skincare but also encouraging the cultivation of Milkweed. This, in turn, offers new, invaluable habitat for Monarchs to rebuild their populations. Every Monarch Botanika product you choose is not just a step toward healthier, radiant skin; it's a vote for a brighter future, where the Monarchs thrive once more.

Monarch Botanika Facial Cleanser, with cold-pressed hand-harvested Milkweed Seed Oil, is a clear lathering gel cleanser that gently cleans the skin without ever stripping it. With plant-based ingredients, this Omega-rich cleanser is nourishing and hydrating, and it never leaves an oily residue. It is highly concentrated, and therefore only a tiny amount is needed to clean the face. It does include Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, and therefore you want to avoid getting it in your eyes, but it isn't overpowering– just uplifting.

No Animal Testing, Plant-Based ingredients, Sulfate and Paraben Free, Phthalate and Petroleum Free, Mineral Oil Free, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Milkweed, Vegan.

According to Monarch Botanika,

Removes dirt and makeup with a plant-based cleanser that promotes balanced hydration, skin replenishment and moisture recovery. Specially formulated to deliver a deep cleanse without stripping away natural facial oils. It is a clean, refreshing scent for all genders.

Our facial cleanser is enriched with premium and distinctive Milkweed Seed Oil boasting Omega 6, 9, and the rare plant-based Omega 7. Cold-pressed without the use of petroleum extraction methods.

Reduces the appearance of blemishes and removes makeup, dirt, and dead skin cells. Our unique blend of ingredients, including Aloe, Eucalyptus, Spearmint, and Peppermint, ensures a thorough cleanse while reducing irritation and redness.

This facial cleanser is designed to work on all skin types, even sensitive skin and those prone to breakouts and irritation. Infused with the exceptional Omega 7, mirroring the sebum present in youthful skin, our formula ensures moisturized skin without the concern of triggering breakouts.

Monarch Botanika stands as a unique skincare brand in partnership with Native Monarchs, a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of Monarch butterflies and their declining populations. Directly contributing to the cause, 5% of all sales support ongoing conservation efforts for Monarchs and Pollinators. Experience skincare for Earth’s preservation – Where Beauty Meets Conservation!

Directions: Wet face with warm water. Apply a small amount to palm and rub hands together to lather. Wash face and rinse clean. Follow up with facial moisturizer.

Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Asclepias (Milkweed) Seed Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Menthol, Polyquaternium-10, Lauryl Glucoside, Coco-Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Fragrance. * Certified organic ingredient.

Overall Assessment: I am smitten with this cleanser, and I am thrilled by Monarch Botanika's commitment to Monarch Butterfly Conservation. A+

$37.00 for 4 oz. from Monarch Botanika and their Amazon Store. Bundle featuring the Facial Cleanser and Facial Moisturizer for $65.00 from Monarch Botanika and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All view expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2024 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Bootleg Bath Hydrating Shampoo Bar Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Bootleg Bath Hydrating Shampoo Bar is such a delight to senses, and the grapefruit and bergamot aroma really lifts the spirits. This cruelty-free shampoo bar is formulated for dry hair in need of some hydration, and it works quite well. It forms a very creamy lather that releases its delectable citrus aroma, and it leaves hair soft, smooth, manageable and hydrated. Additionally, while it thoroughly cleans the hair, it neither leaves hair stripped, nor greasy. This eco-friendly soap is a winner, and it means fewer shampoo bottles end up in the recycle bin, or worse yet in the landfill.

According to Bootleg Bath,

If your hair requires a little extra love to keep it soft, then you’ll love this shampoo bar. Excellent for dry and coarse hair. Formulated with loads of hydration promoting Cocoa Butter, paired with Sea Buckthorn Oil and Aloe Vera Extract. This Shampoo will condition your hair while it cleanses. Lightly scented with Grapefruit & bergamot.

Ingredients: Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate Coconut Oil, Cocoa Butter, Fragrance, Aloe Vera Extract, Sea Buckthorn Oil, MCT Oil, Calamine.

Overall Assessment: This is such a lovely bar shampoo, and I am throughly enjoying it. A+

$16.95 for 2.2 oz. from Bootleg Bath and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2024 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Bootleg Bath Salted Margarita Bath Bar Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Bootleg Bath Salted Margarita Bath Bar is a mildly exfoliating bar that leaves skin soft and smooth without stripping it. This handcrafted bar has a deletable citrus aroma that is an uplifting treat to the senses, and it is a perfect gift for yourself and the people on your holiday gift list.

This wonderful brand, from San Francisco, is cruelty-free, eco friendly and uses ethically sourced ingredients.

According to Bootleg Bath,

This Sea Salt soap bar purifies pores and exfoliates the skin. The bright citrus fragrance awakens the senses while the salt gives a hydrating and exfoliating experience. Shea Butter and Sea Salt both contribute to the soap’s moisturizing and hydrating properties. 

Features:

NOURISHING SOAP BAR: Indulge in the pure bliss of our Bootleg Bath body soap bars, a luxurious and nourishing delight for your skin; crafted with care using natural oils and enriched with the goodness of shea butter, this natural bar soap is designed to provide your skin with the hydration and nourishment it craves leaving you feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready to take on the day with confidence and radiance.

LIME SCENTED AND GENTLE EXFOLIATING BAR SOAP: Indulge in the bright citrus and zesty fragrance of fresh lime while enjoying the gentle exfoliation provided by the nourishing sea salt; this bath soap bar also has shea butter that penetrates deeply into your skin, delivering essential moisture and restoring its natural suppleness.

ECO FRIENDLY and CRUELTY FREE NATURAL SOAP: Made with utmost care, this all natural soap is a harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients that are gentle on your skin and kind to the environment; we believe in promoting a sustainable lifestyle, which is why our palm oil free soap bars and shower products are thoughtfully made without the use of harsh chemicals or ethically-sourced ingredients.

PERFECT SELF CARE GIFT: Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, holiday, or any special occasion, our Bootleg Bath bathroom soap is the ultimate gift to delight your loved ones; elevate their daily bathing routine and share the joy of feeling pampered and cherished every time they step into the shower; give our all natural bar soap as spa gifts for women, self care gifts, gift sets for men, relaxation gifts, bath gift set for women and skin care gift set.

HANDCRAFTED IN THE USA: Each natural body soap is handcrafted ensuring attention to detail and a premium product every time; our men bar soap and body soap women are also available in convenient 1-pack, 3-pack or 5-pack options.

Overall Assessment: This is a gorgeous bar that smells amazing and leaves skin soft and smooth. A+

$9.95 for 4.4 oz. from Bootleg Bath and their Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Neutrogena Reusable Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser Starter Kit Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Neutrogena Reusable Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser Starter Kit is a brilliant addition to their skincare collection, and a wonderful eco-friendly cleanser. The kit includes a reusable metal bottle and a concentrated powder cleanser refill. You simply fill up the bottle with drinking quality water and then add the powder packet and give it a good shake. The end result is a fragrance-free, 7 ingredient foaming cleanser that is gentle and creamy to the touch. It thoroughly cleans the skin without ever stripping it, and leaves it silky smooth. This is a wonderful cleanser that is an excellent choice for even the most sensitive skin types.

According to Neutrogena,

Wash away daily aggressors for instantly refreshed and replenished skin with the Neutrogena Reusable Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser Starter Kit. This kit from a dermatologist-recommended skin care brand comes with a reusable pump bottle and fragrance-free foaming facial cleanser concentrate refill to gently dissolve daily aggressors such as dirt, oil, and makeup. Formulated with just seven ingredients, the face wash creates a rich, cushiony lather that gently cleanses and is suitable for sensitive and reactive skin. The clean-rinsing, 96% biodegradable formula is unscented, non-comedogenic and free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, alcohol, mineral oil and soap.

Features:

• Neutrogena Foaming Facial Cleanser Starter Kit with reusable pump bottle & face wash concentrate.
• Daily foaming facial cleanser gently washes away daily aggressors like dirt, oil, & makeup.
• Fragrance-free cleanser leaves sensitive & reactive skin feeling clean, instantly refreshed, & replenished.
• Face wash creates a rich, cushiony lather that cleanses without over-drying skin.
• Formulated with 7 ingredients, daily cleanser is 96% biodegradable & rinses clean without residue.
• Unscented, non-comedogenic wash free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, alcohol, mineral oil & soap.
• To use, remove pump from Neutrogena Reusable Bottle, fill with water, & pour in concentrate mix.
• For a reusable face wash solution, fill with another concentrate refill; sold separately.

DIRECTION TO MIX:

FILL UP: Remove pump. Fill the bottle to the indented fill line with 7.5 fl oz (221 mL) of warm, drinking quality water.

POUR IN: Cut open the packet along the dotted line and insert the mouth of it into the bottle (avoiding contact with water). To minimize dust, tap gently to empty the packet. Reattach pump.

SHAKE: Shake bottle for 10 seconds and wait for 1 minute before the first use. When finished, wash bottle according to carton instructions and fill with another concentrate refill!

DIRECTION FOR USE: Wet face. Pump cleanser into hands. Massage face gently. Rinse. No need to shake.

Ingredients: Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Benzoate, Magnesium Sulfate, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Ascorbic Acid.

Overall Assessment: I love that Neutrogena is engaging in responsible sustainability practices, and this cleanser is first rate. Once you purchase the kit, you only need to purchase the refill packets, and therefore there is far less waste and expense. A+

$14.99 for 7.5 fl oz. from Neutrogena, Amazon, Target and Walmart (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Boxwalla June Beauty Box Sneak Peek Featuring African Botanics

Affiliate Links

Boxwalla has some changes to the pricing of the Beauty Boxes, so make sure to make any changes to your subscription by May 14.

The June Beauty Box is themed The Rhapsody of a Summer Dream, and features two exquisite products from an extraordinary brand: African Botanics.

Each Beauty Box contains:

• African Botanics Nutritive Molecule Serum ($250.00) 
• African Botanics Buchu Botanical Enzyme Polish (20 ml travel size, $20.00)

Cost to Subscribe: $59.95 (or $49.95 for prepaid); Retail Value: $270.00

Free U.S. Shipping Always.

African Botanics was created by Julia & Craig Noik back in 2012. African Botanics is designed, formulated, and made from start to finish in South Africa, paying homage to the cultural history of its people and the vast biodiversity of its landscape. The products thoughtfully combine the unique botanicals native to South Africa with the most cutting-edge skincare technology to create luxuriously effective products that surprise and delight. Along with well-researched lab-syntheized actives, they go the extra mile to use only sustainably and ethically harvested wild-grown and biodynamic botanical ingredients in their formulations, working with independent networks of individuals, and supporting local women-owned businesses whenever possible. 

The first product in the box is a full-size of African Botanics' Nutritive Molecule Serum: an Advanced Antioxidant Serum with Vitamin C ($250.00):

Made in a base of Aloe Ferox & Witch Hazel, this is an antioxidant, hydrating, protective serum that contains not one, not two, but three forms of Vitamin C that complement each other: Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP), as well Ascorbyl Palmitate. There’s also Ethyl Ferulate (ester of Ferulic acid), an antioxidant that soothes the skin while being particularly great at supporting the skin’s defenses when it is exposed to UV radiation. In addition, this serum also contains Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Peptides as well as extracts of the polysaccharide-rich Resurrection plant & Swiss Apple, along with Resveratrol, Yeast Beta Glucan & so much more. It also incorporates a group of enzymes called Oxidoreductase that blocks different forms of oxygen from generating damage to the skin.

This rejuvenating serum protects the skin again the three main types of free radicals: oxygen, carbon & nitrogen, while also improving the skin’s texture, brightening the skin, & helping address the loss of firmness/elasticity.

The second product in the box is African Botanics's Buchu Botanical Enzyme Polish (20 ml, travel size):

Buchu Polish contains sun-dried Buchu plant (which is anti-inflammatory) and crushed Baobab Fruit, which provides physical exfoliation along with fine granules of volcanic minerals. Then there's Microalgae extract that helps brighten the skin. Fruit enzymes from Papaya and Pineapple provide chemical exfoliation along with Lactobionic acid which is a non-irritating acid belonging to the polyhydroxy acid (PHA) family.

This polish also contains antiinflammatory, hydrating ingredients like Aloe Ferox as well as antioxidants like Kigella and Rooibos.

Boxwalla's eco-luxe beauty boxes are an extraordinary value, and the products themselves are nothing short of spectacular. Their carefully curated cruelty-free green beauty boxes are a tremendous value, with steep discounts, and they feature truly covet-worthy luxurious, and sustainably crafted beauty products.

Visit: www.theboxwalla.com

Urban Originals Astro Tote Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I love a nice and roomy tote, and if you are looking for a very practical gift for yourself, or for Mother's Day, then the Urban Originals Astro Tote is a wonderful choice. It has a spacious interior, it's made from waterproof canvas and it has an adjustable drop strap and a detachable keychain. Furthermore, it has 5 credit card slots, an interior zipper pocket and an open pocket with a strap. The exterior boasts a convenient zipper compartment and one with a snap, and it is large enough to carry lots of things, but the bag itself is lightweight. I can load it up with everything that I need, including books, a water bottle and snacks, for a long day away from home. It is practical, attractive, eco-friendly, cruelty-free and vegan.

About Urban Originals,

Urban Originals creates drop-dead gorgeous bags that are Uber practical, without using any animal leather. The brand is 100% cruelty-free and vegan. Urban Originals uses the finest quality vegan leathers and recycled materials where possible and works to very low chemical requirements. So when you buy Urban Originals, you can feel as good as you look. Founded by Susanna Cates, the brand has grown beyond its Australian origins. Based out of Sydney and now Los Angeles, Urban Originals can be found in boutiques in Australia, the United States, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. The global love and demand also support them in their commitment to ensuring that every product is made in fair trade conditions and passes Department Store and Industry ethical standards.

According to Urban Originals,

This go-to tote by Urban Originals has a super practical size and its made with a waterproof canvas. Astro Tote has a zipper closure for its main compartment and a snap button for its frontal pocket. The roomy inside of this tote has plenty of pockets for all of your things. This tote features a double short handle and a detachable and adjustable webbing strap. 

Features:

• Adjustable and detachable strap
• Zipper closure
• 1 x zip pocket, 2 x slip pockets
• 5 x card slots
• Detachable keychain 
• 1 x front pocket
• Material- 100% cotton, lining- 100% viscose
• Measurements- medium sized bag; 14" W x 11" H x 6" D
• Handle drop- 8", adjustable strap drop- 13"-23.5", adjustable strap length- 27-.5"-45"
• Cruelty Free // Low Chemical // Eco Conscious Fabrics

Zip Pocket

5 Card Slots

Overall Assessment: If you are looking to get your mom a wonderful gift that is practical and stylish, then take a look at Urban Originals. They offer a wide range of attractive handbags, totes and backpacks that are covet-worthy and cruelty-free.

$98.00 from Urban Originals. Also sold at Macy's, Anthropologie and Nordstrom (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Westman Atelier Spot Check Brush Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

Westman Atelier Spot Check Brush is a magic wand, and that is not an exaggeration! This was my final Westman Atelier brush purchase, and now I have the entire set of brushes. These brushes were, without question, a sizable splurge, but this particular brush was actually quite affordable at $38.00.

This small and pointed brush head was conceived to offer spot coverage for blemishes, discoloration (hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation), broken capillaries, redness, dark circles and anything else that you wish to deemphasize. 

It effortlessly and deftly navigates the smallest areas of the face with precision, and it offers a perfected version of your own skin. The synthetic nylon bristles are densely packed, and firm enough to effectively apply foundation or concealer, but not so firm as to be rough against the skin. The bristles themselves are silky soft and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. The short handle, coupled with its perfect weight, makes this a very efficient tool. I have washed it numerous times, and it has not shed a single bristle. 

Gucci posits that she uses a "Pointillist Concealer Technique" wherein she dips the brush into her Vital Skin Foundation, and then taps three times so that there are no visible edges to the spot that she has sought to conceal. It is a brilliant method, and it is easy and foolproof.

According to Westman Atelier,

Targeted coverage just where you need it. Inspired by Gucci Westman's spot check method for flawless skin, this pointed brush tip conceals imperfections and pigmentation, making it an ideal companion to Vital Skin Foundation.

Luxurious and durable, each brush is handmade in Japan by the most prestigious brush maker in the world using cruelty free, super soft nylon fibers and sustainably sourced birch. Thoughtfully designed shorter handles make for easy, effortless application. Cruelty-Free.

Features:

Artisan Design: Handmade in Kumano, Japan using traditional techniques from the most prestigious brush maker in the world. 

Lacquered Handles: Crafted with the finest sustainable hardwood birch from a Forest Stewardship Council certified forest in Eastern Europe. 

High Performance: Luxurious and durable. Finely tapered nylon fibers feel ultra-smooth with optimal density, softness and function. 

Their brush-making process is cruelty-free.

Gucci's Notes:

This little brush is my secret for creating the absolute best and most beautiful skin. It's always, always in my kit.

Dip the Spot Check Brush into your Vital Skin Foundation stick and dab anywhere you need precise coverage, using a light stippling motion to layer and build. 

For flat red marks and spots, start with a lighter shade of Vital Skin Foundation to neutralize pinkish tones, then follow with a slightly deeper shade on top for a true second skin effect. To diffuse brown spots or raised bumps, skip the lighter shade and go straight for the slightly deeper shade.

Finish by using a fingertip to gently 'tap, tap, tap' on top of the area with a fingertip. This helps Vital Skin settle seamlessly into skin. 

A dab of translucent powder, dabbed directly on top of the spot with a featherlight motion, helps coverage last throughout the day.

The flat surface area effortlessly picks up and deposits foundation and concealer.

This brush is perfectly shaped, and boasts dense, and yet remarkably soft bristles.

You can see that the tip is pointed to get into tight spots and to cover very small spots efficiently.

The nylon bristles are soft, and yet extraordinarily effective and efficient.

"Handmade in Kumano, Japan using traditional techniques from the most prestigious brush maker in the world. The lacquered handles are crafted with the finest sustainable hardwood birch from a Forest Stewardship Council certified forest in Eastern Europe."

The brush is just a little over 4 1/2" in length

Size comparison top to bottom: Westman Atelier Blender Brush (Reviewed HERE), Westman Atelier Powder Brush (Reviewed HERE), Westman Atelier Foundation Brush (Reviewed HERE), Westman Atelier Baby Blender Brush (Reviewed HERE), Westman Atelier Spot Check Brush (Reviewed HERE), Westman Atelier Eye Shadow II Brush, (Reviewed HERE), Westman Atelier Eye Shadow I Brush (Reviewed HERE), Westman Atelier Lip Brush (Reviewed HERE).

Overall Assessment: I can't begin to express how impressed I am by this hardworking brush, and if you love quality handcrafted makeup brushes, you will really want this beauty in your collection.

$38.00 from Sephora, Credo Beauty, Violet Grey, Net-A-Porter, Cos Bar, Harrods, The Webster, Selfridges and Bergdorf Goodman (Affiliate Links).

Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Eco Lips Must-Haves for Soft, Protected and Hydrated Lips

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Whether you are looking for some affordable gifts for your mom this Mother's Day, or you want great cruelty-free and eco-friendly lip products for yourself, Eco Lips has just what you are looking for! 

Eco Lips Intensive Overnight Sleep Mask in Blackberry ($6.49 for 0.25 oz. from Eco Lips): This delectable blackberry flavored sleep mask, in a plastic recyclable jar, moisturizes and nourishes your lips while you sleep. It is emollient, filled with soothing ingredients that nourish, heal and moisturize your lips . The following morning, lips are soft, smooth, supple and moisturized. 

According to Eco Lips,

The ultimate lip care product, Eco Lips Intensive Overnight Lip Mask will nourish and moisturize while you sleep. Wake up the next morning with soft, supple and kissable lips! Organic Jojoba, Coconut and Argan oils nourish while Gotu Kola Extract supports collagen and helps to rejuvenate dry, cracked and chapped lips. Blackberry fruit extract, high in Vitamins A, C, and K, rounds out the formula to help fight free radicals.

Ingredients: Lanolin, *Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, *Cera Alba (Beeswax), *Blackberry Flavor, *Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract, *Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, *Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, *Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Fruit Extract, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia) Leaf Extract, Mica, Iron Oxides. *Organic Ingredient.

Eco Lips Zinc Broad Spectrum SPF 15 Sunscreen Lip Balm ($3.49 for .15 oz. from Eco Lips): This lip balm, with its delightful vanilla and coconut aroma, contains a reef-safe mineral sunscreen that protects your lips and the ocean simultaneously. It keeps lips wonderfully moisturized, and it is a great pick for time spent outdoors. Apply it liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply it frequently. It is water-resistant, but not waterproof. 

According to Eco Lips,

The calming flavor of vanilla and coconut combined with organic, Fair Trade Certified™ coconut oil & cocoa butter is an experience you can’t resist! The added broad spectrum SPF 15 protection achieved with reef safe, zinc oxide along with olive oil to provide the ultimate lip shield from the elements. Protect your lips from harmful UV rays with this chemical-free Zinc Broad Spectrum SPF 15 Sunscreen lip balm.

Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide (20%). Inactive Ingredients: *Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), *†Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, *†Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Coconut Flavor, *Copernica Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, *Vanilla Flavor, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E). *Organic Ingredient †Fair Trade Certified™ by Fair Trade USA 20% of Product.

Eco Lips Hemp Vanilla Plant Pod Lip Balm ($3.49 for 0.15 oz. from Eco Lips): One of the amazing things about these lip balms is that they feature the "first plant-based, 100% plastic-free lip balm tube that fully functions like a regular tube." The lip balm itself, which boasts a delicious vanilla flavor, glides across the lips effortlessly and delivers serious nourishing moisture. 

According to Eco Lips,

The beneficial properties of hemp seed oil are renowned throughout the world. From the first time the cap twists off this hemp-infused lip balm, you’ll be soothed. The vanilla flavor adds a soft note to the soothing certified organic hemp seed oil, and makes this infusion of herbs and vitamins a luxurious, nutrient-rich experience.

Features: Not made with THC or CBD | Warm vanilla note | Ultra soothing | Nutrient-rich

KEY INGREDIENTS: Cold-Pressed Organic Hemp Oil: The finest, cold-pressed Cannabis Sativa seed oil delivers a natural balance of essential fatty acids (EFAs) and amino acids which are wonderful for skin care applications.

Ingredients: *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), Fair Trade Certified™ *Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Fair Trade Certified™ *Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, *Vanilla Flavor, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E) , *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract *Certified Organic Ingredients

Eco Lips Hemp Vanilla Mint Plant Pod Lip Balm ($3.49 for 0.15 oz. from Eco Lips): This luscious lip balm isn't just nourishing and moisturizing for the lips, but it is also uplifting and refreshing. The pungency of the mint is tempered by the warmth and creaminess of the vanilla, and the combination is absolutely sensational.

According to Eco Lips,

The beneficial properties of hemp seed oil are renowned throughout the world. From the first time the cap twists off these hemp-infused lip balms, you’ll be soothed and protected. These moisturizing lip balms feature certified organic hemp seed oil paired with organic flavors, herbs and vitamins for a luxurious, nutrient-rich experience.

Vanilla Mint Hemp Lip Balm features a stellar combination of soothing vanilla, an invigorating pop of peppermint essential oil and Certified Organic hemp seed oil for a luxurious nutrient-rich experience. Hemp nourishes and conditions for long-lasting moisturization and protection.

KEY INGREDIENTS: Cold-Pressed Organic Hemp Oil: The finest, cold-pressed Cannabis Sativa seed oil delivers a natural balance of essential fatty acids (EFAs) and amino acids which are wonderful for skin care applications.

Ingredients: *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), *Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, *Fair Trade Certified™ Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Fair Trade Certified™ Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, *Vanilla Flavor, *Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia) Leaf Extract. *Certified Organic Ingredients Fair Trade Certified by Fair Trade USA

Eco Lips Hemp Coconut Plant Pod Lip Balm ($3.49 for 0.15 oz. from Eco Lips): This ultra-moisturizing and nourishing lip balm smells like the embodiment of a tropical vacation in the summer. This wonderful balm leaves lips soft, smooth, supple and hydrated.

According to Eco Lips,

The beneficial properties of hemp seed oil are renowned throughout the world. From the first time the cap twists off these hemp-infused lip balms, you’ll be soothed and protected. These moisturizing lip balms feature certified organic hemp seed oil paired with organic flavors, herbs and vitamins for a luxurious, nutrient-rich experience.

Coconut Hemp Lip Balm features super smooth & creamy coconut coupled with rich, beneficial and botanically-infused hemp seed oil for a luxurious nutrient-rich experience. Hemp nourishes and conditions for long-lasting moisturization and protection.

KEY INGREDIENTS: Cold-Pressed Organic Hemp Oil: The finest, cold-pressed Cannabis Sativa seed oil delivers a natural balance of essential fatty acids (EFAs) and amino acids which are wonderful for skin care applications.

Ingredients: *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), *Coconut Flavor, *Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, *†Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia) Leaf Extract. *Certified Organic Ingredient †Fair Trade Certified™

Eco Lips Hemp Cherry Plant Pod Lip Balm ($3.49 for 0.15 oz. from Eco Lips): If you love cherry lip balms, you will really love this one! It is sweet, but with a tart twist, and it feels absolutely amazing on the lips. It is emollient, moisturizing and a treat to the senses.

According to Eco Lips,

The beneficial properties of hemp seed oil are renowned throughout the world. From the first time the cap twists off these hemp-infused lip balms, you’ll be soothed and protected. These moisturizing lip balms feature certified organic hemp seed oil paired with organic flavors, herbs and vitamins for a luxurious, nutrient-rich experience.

Cherry Hemp Lip Balm packs a deliciously sweet, juicy and slightly tart flavor infused with beneficial hemp seed oil for a luxurious nutrient-rich experience. Hemp nourishes and conditions for long-lasting moisturization and protection.

KEY INGREDIENTS: Cold-Pressed Organic Hemp Oil: The finest, cold-pressed Cannabis Sativa seed oil delivers a natural balance of essential fatty acids (EFAs) and amino acids which are wonderful for skin care applications.

Ingredients: *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Flava (Beeswax), *Cherry Flavor, *Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, *†Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, *Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia) Leaf Extract. *Certified Organic Ingredient †Fair Trade Certified™.

Overall Assessment: I highly recommend Eco Lips products, and simply can't say enough good things about their products and sustainability practices. A+

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Unaffiliated Links). Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.