November 2023 Empties Galore for the Face & Body

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

This month I managed to finish 12 products, and two of them were sample sizes. I liked everything that I used up, and thoroughly enjoyed them. I should note that while this pile of empties seems like a lot, in the spirit of transparency they were all quite used up, and I simply focused on finishing them before they spoiled. Here is what I finished up in the month of November:

Erno Laszlo Phelityl Night Cream ($146.00 for 1.7 oz. from Erno Laszlo, Nordstrom and Amazon): is pH-balancing and formulated to repair, strengthen and hydrate your skin while you sleep. It is very thick, but miraculously lightweight, fast-absorbing and non-greasy. It quickly melts into the skin, leaves behind no residue whatsoever, and deeply moisturizes. When I wake up my skin is so soft, supple, moisturized and luminous. Additionally, it softens the appearance of fine lines and makes my skin look incredible. It can also be used during the day, but it contains no sunscreen, and therefore you need to use a separate sunscreen if you use this during the day. It has a very light and pleasant aroma that quickly dissipates, and it can be used for all types of skin. It is perfect for my normal/combination skin, but I think that people with dry skin might prefer a richer cream at night. Purchase Again? I will definitely purchase more at some point in the future, but for now I have far too many open jars of cream to use first.

Fleur & Bee Youth Fairy Retinol Moisturizer ($40.00 for 1.5 oz. from Fleur & Bee and Amazon): is a wonderfully effective and affordable cruelty-free brand. This rich and nourishing antioxidant cream, which is formulated for all types of skin, features 0.03% retinol to increase skin cell turnover and lighten hyperpigmentation, and plant stem cells to protect and rejuvenate the skin. To offset any of the drying and peeling effects, often associated with retinol-based skincare products, Evening Primrose was selected to moisturize and smooth the skin. Unlike many retinol-based skincare products, Youth Fairy is quite gentle, and I experienced no redness, irritation, itching or peeling. The thick and emollient cream melts into the skin immediately leaving it nourished and luminous. It does take up to 12 weeks to see the full effects of the retinol, but I noticed that my skin was brighter after just a couple of weeks. This cream is also gluten-free and it has no detectable aroma. If you are seeking a gentle retinol, then this is a really nice one to consider. 

It should be noted that it is very important to use a high SPF sunscreen, and reapplying it frequently, when using retinol-based products since they remove dead skin cells and leave the skin more vulnerable to the elements. It is also very wise to have your doctor check your moles and any skin irregularities– including, but limited to hyperpigmentation– to make sure that you do not have pre-cancerous lesions or spots, or skin cancer. Since I am not a medical doctor, I would urge you to see your physician to discuss the safety of adding retinol to your routine, and to make sure that none of your skin irregularities need medical attention instead of a skincare product. My doctor is very accustomed to looking over the ingredients in products that I seek to use, and she always carefully checks my skin for anything that might be, or could become, problematic. Purchase Again? I have several open jars and tubes of retinol-based products to use first, but I would definitely use this again!

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Cream is ($70.00 for 1.69 oz. from Vitabrid C¹², Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom) is a mid-weight rich cream that melts into the skin, and the Shea Butter delivers serious moisture. Stabilized Vitamin C helps to even skin tone and lighten hyperpigmentation, and the novel peptides help plump fine lines leaving the skin smoother looking in appearance. This ultra-luxe, and velvety-textured, cream is such a pleasure to use and it makes skin look and feel exquisite. While I do not have wrinkles, I do have some fine expression lines, and this cream has definitely softened their appearance. There is no fragrance, and therefore people who are sensitive to fragrant skincare products will not have any problems with this cream in that regard. Purchase Again? I think that I might have another jar stashed somewhere, and will definitely use it!

Annmarie Skin Care Anti-Aging Facial Oil ($118.00 for 30ml. from Annmarie Skin Care and their Official Amazing Store): is a seriously gorgeous luxury face oil. While this glorious face oil is formulated for dry and mature skin, it is one of the finest and most effective oils to have graced my normal to combination skin. This ultra-luxe antioxidant-rich facial oil, which is velvety-to-the-touch, is infused with herbs and a symphony of more than 13 nourishing oils. Ingredients such as chia, goji berry, and broccoli firm and tighten the skin, and therefore soften the appearance of fine lines. Deeply moisturizing, this beautiful oil is lightweight and it effortlessly melts into the skin. It is neither greasy, nor does it leave behind any residue. I prefer to apply it to moist and warm freshly washed skin, and it immediately leaves my skin soft, smooth, supple and luminous. It is quite concentrated, and therefore I find the a single pump offers plenty of oil to cover my face, neck and décolleté, but your use may vary. It has the most hypnotic herbal aroma, but is not long-lasting or overpowering. Purchase Again? I am using a full size bottle as we speak, and I love it!

Aesop Damascan Rose Facial Treatment ($85.00 for 0.8 oz. from Aesop, Nordstrom, Space NK, Bluemercury, Revolve and Saks Fifth Avenue): is undoubtedly a very deeply nourishing and moisturizing face oil that will do wonders for dry and/or distressed skin, but it has also done incredible things for my normal/combination skin as well. It is a very concentrated, vitamin infused treatment oil that serves as a potent remedy for skin that needs intense hydration, but is so gentle and nourishing that my skin happily drinks it up and is left soft, supple, glowing, balanced, and very moisturized. I only need a couple of drops that I warm between my hands before massaging it into my slightly damp and warm face, neck and décolleté. It sinks in immediately and effortlessly, and it has an intoxicatingly hypnotic warm earthy rose scent that simply delights the senses. It is neither too rich for my skin, nor has it caused me to break out in the least. It just makes my skin look and feel amazing. Purchase Again? I will definitely consider it once I have finished some of my many open face oils.

Goldfaden MD Fleuressence Native Botanical Cell Oil ($129.00 for 1 oz. from Goldfaden MD, Credo Beauty, Bloomingdale's and Amazon): If you are looking to try a new-to-you luxury face oil that is lightweight, fast-absorbing and incredibly nourishing and hydrating, then Goldfaden MD Fleuressence Native Botanical Cell Oil is worthy of your consideration. This delicate and delectable golden elixir boasts a light floral aroma that is an utter delight to the senses. This silky smooth ultra-luxe oil melts into the skin immediately moisturizing the skin and leaving it soft, smooth, supple and luminous. It boasts a thoroughly non-greasy texture that makes it the perfect candidate to be added to your daily moisturizer for added hydration, and it can be added to your favorite foundation for added luminosity. Furthermore, the antioxidant-rich formula, which is rich in Omega fatty acids, helps protect the skin against free-radical damage. After repeated use for about 5 weeks, I noted that the appearance of my fine lines were softened and my overall skin tone appeared more even and brightened. Purchase Again? DEFINITELY!

Fleur & Bee Just Dew It Hydrating Serum ($34.00 for 1 oz. from Fleur & Bee and the Fleur & Bee Amazon Store): This Hyaluronic Acid serum includes 14 nourishing actives that pamper and hydrate the skin with extraordinary efficacy. It is a lightweight and yet rich gel that leaves skin soft, smooth, hydrated and with a dewy glow. It is fast absorbing, it has a wonderful slightly floral aroma, and it softens the appearance of fine lines. This cruelty-free and vegan serum is as much a treat to the senses as it is to the skin, and it is remarkably affordable for such a luxurious serum. It is formulated for all skin types, and it is perfect all year long. Purchase Again? Definitely!

Elina Organics Vitamin C Elixir ($63.00 for 2 oz. from Elina Organics and their official Amazon Store): is a nourishing serum that contains Vitamin C, Rose Hips, Almond Oil, Green Tea and Sea Buckthorn to nourish and even skin complexions. This serum, which has the consistency and appearance of a lightweight moisturizer, melts into the skin and offers it immediate nourishment and hydration. If you have normal to combination skin, like me, then you can actually use this gem as your daily moisturizer, and if you have dry skin, then you will want to use it as a serum underneath your moisturizer. It also brightens the complexion, it fades hyperpigmentation and scars over time, and it soothes irritated skin. My skin is left soft, smooth, supple, brightened and with a pronounced clarity. It has a light herbal aroma, informed by its ingredients, not added fragrance, but it dissipates altogether once it is absorbed by the skin. Purchase Again? I just opened up a different Vitamin C serum, but I would love to get this one again in the future.

Erno Laszlo Sea Mud Deep Cleansing Bar ($44.00 for 3.4 oz. from Erno Laszlo, Nordstrom and Look Fantastic): Sea Mud Deep Cleansing Bar does an exceptional job cleaning and exfoliating my skin, and it does so without drying, stripping or irritating. Skin is left soft, clear and luminous, and while it is now said to be formulated for all skin types, it used to be for normal, combination and oily skin types. I would say that dryer skin types would only use it periodically for its deep cleaning and exfoliating abilities, but not as a daily soap. I do like to use it with a cleansing oil, but sometimes I use it alone. My one grievance is that the bar used to be a hefty 6 oz., which was far more satisfying to use, and now it is nearly half the size. Purchase Again? Absolutely!

Spongellé Body Wash Infused Buffers ($12.00-$20.00 each from Spongellé): This particular buffer was limited edition from a while ago, but you really can't go wrong with any of their buffers. These sponges not only effectively remove dead skin cells, but they also leave the skin deliciously baby soft, smooth, supple and moisturized. Body wash infused body buffers are such a treat to use, and they really excel in their ability to clean and exfoliate the skin while delighting the senses with their delightful aromas. You simply dampen the body buffer with water to activate the lather to effortlessly clean and exfoliate the skin. Each sponge is filled with enough body wash for a minimum of 14 washes, and once you have used up all of the body wash, the sponge itself is still quite intact, and therefore all you need to do is use it in conjunction with your favorite liquid or bar soaps. The hanging ribbon allows the buffer to dry out easily, but I recommend hanging it outside of the moist environment of the shower to avoid bacterial growth. Purchase Again? I just opened up a new one!

Spongellé Botanica Candle in Tobacco Flower ($35.00 for 8 oz. from Spongellé): This is amazing candle has a rather hard to describe scent profile. The bottom notes, cedarwood and sandalwood, account for the tobacco flower sensibility, but it is mellowed by the top and middle notes to create a brilliantly conceived amalgam of these carefully selected aromas. If this were a perfume, it would be described as decidedly unisex in its composition and conception. Fragrance Notes: Top: Bergamot, Green Fig. Middle: Rosemary, Juniper, Sheer Lavender. Bottom: Cedarwood, Sandalwood. Purchase Again? I just start burning another one of their delectable candles!

Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Velvet Violet ($29.00 for 10g. from Charlotte Tilbury, Sephora, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Beautylish, Selfridges, Cult Beauty and John Lewis): This wonderful formula is so creamy to the touch and easy to blend, and it glides across the skin without any tugging or pulling, and it deposits color evenly and effortlessly. It allows you to create a very clean crisp line, but gives you enough time before setting to make a smoky smudged line as well. Once it does set, it is completely budge-proof, and lasts on me all day long, and without a primer. I do not experience any transfer, smudging or fading, but I do not have very oily eyelids, and your wear-time may vary if you do. Purchase Again? I just opened another one!

Overall Assessment: I hope that I can do this well in December! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in November? Any excellent or mediocre products to report?

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. 

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

Elina Organics Vitamin C Elixir Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Elina Organics Vitamin C Elixir is a nourishing serum that contains Vitamin C, Rose Hips, Almond Oil, Green Tea and Sea Buckthorn to nourish and even skin complexions. Created by Cosmetic Chemist & Celebrity Esthetician, Elina Fedotova, who is also the founder of Elina Organics & Spas (located in Michigan and Florida), this serum is remarkably effective. In addition to the high potency Vitamin C, Elina also incorporates other ingredients into her skincare line in order to deliver truly effective products that do precisely what they claim. 

This serum, which has the consistency and appearance of a lightweight moisturizer, melts into the skin and offers it immediate nourishment and hydration. If you have normal to combination skin, like me, then you can actually use this gem as your daily moisturizer, and if you have dry skin, then you will want to use it as a serum underneath your moisturizer. It also brightens the complexion, it fades hyperpigmentation and scars over time, and it soothes irritated skin. My skin is left soft, smooth, supple, brightened and with a pronounced clarity. It has a light herbal aroma, informed by its ingredients, not added fragrance, but it dissipates altogether once it is absorbed by the skin.

According to Elina Organics,

This natural ester vitamin C (14%) formula reduces free radical damage and builds collagen. Extracts of yarrow, sea buckthorn, and nourishing organic botanicals help even out your complexion, hydrate, and rejuvenate your skin.

Obtaining the benefits of Vitamin C for your skin is essential for collagen production, increased skin circulation promoting elasticity and tightening of skin, exfoliating and brightening skin, soothing redness, and reducing hyperpigmentation, Vitamin C through skincare helps brighten discolored scars.

Directions: This can be used as a serum for dry/normal complexions, or as a moisturizer for normal/oily complexions. After cleansing and toning, use 1-2 pumps once or twice a day all over your face and neck, depending on dry/normal/oily complexion.

Vitamin C Elixir: Designed for all skin types, this natural ester vitamin C (14%) formula reduces free radical damage and builds collagen. Extracts of yarrow, sea buckthorn, and nourishing organic botanicals help even out your complexion, hydrate, and rejuvenate your skin.

 

Key Ingredients featured in Vitamin C Elixir:

• Liposomes - All organic skin nutrients are encapsulated in liposomes for deep penetration and delivery to nourish live skin cells.
• Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) from Rose Hips - evens skin tone by brightening and reducing discolorations, stimulates collagen production, smoothes fine lines and wrinkles.
• Vitamin E from Seabuckthorn - moisturizes, improves sun damage, reduces inflammation, promotes healing, antioxidant properties, protects skin from free radicals.
• Almond Oil - a natural source of oleic acid (up to 60%) and unsaturated fatty acids (25%) which nourish and soften skin, contains vitamin E which nourishes your skin, lightweight oil that any complexion can benefit from, antibacterial and antifungal properties are especially beneficial for acne-prone complexions.
• Green Tea - contains powerful antioxidants that help restore skin from sun damage and stubborn discoloration.

Ingredients (All Phyto Ingredients Certified Organic): Distilled Water, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Populus Tremuloides (Aspen) Bark Extract, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula), Hyaluronic Acid, Prunus Amygdalus var. Dulcis (Almond) Nut Oil, Squalane (Olive), Phospholipids and Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester) Encapsulations, Hippophae (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Propanediol (Vegetable), EcoCert Gluconolactone, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E), Argania Spinosa (Argan) Nut Oil, Xanthomonas Campestris (Xanthan) Gum, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Allantoin, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Essential Oils: Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender), Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil.

🚫 ALWAYS MADE WITHOUT: Parabens, Sulfates, Propylene Glycol, Synthetic Dyes, Talc & BHT, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Silicones and Harsh Solvents.

Overall Assessment: I have yet to try an Elina Organics product that wasn't exceptional! If you are seeking a Vitamin C based serum, this one is definitely worthy of your consideration.

$30.00 for .5 oz. and $63.00 for 2 oz. from Elina Organics and their official Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Elina Organics Baikal Crystal Balm Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Elina Organics Baikal Crystal Balm is a rich and intensely moisturizing balm that nourishes the skin, and leaves it balanced, calm and restored. It is formulated to soothe and heal inflamed, damaged and bruised skin, and it also works wonders on chapped skin. I like to use it on my face and body, and have found it particularly effective on my dry and chapped hands and cuticles. It can be used in the daytime or nighttime, and while it is rich, it melts into the skin effortlessly. It has no detectable aroma, and therefore it should not be a problem for people with sensitivities to fragrant skincare products.

According to Elina Organics,

The main ingredient in this skin-restoring, hydrating, and nourishing moisturizer is Lubomirskia freshwater sponge. It is only found in Russia’s Lake Baikal, the world’s largest freshwater lake by volume. For centuries infusions of Lubomirskia and other sponges from Lake Baikal have served as remedies for inflamed, damaged, and bruised skin. Lubomirskia can help regulate the secretion of sebum, increase fibroblast regeneration, and overall general skin appearance and resiliency. Extracts of Lubomirskia encapsulated with liposomes will enhance the performance of this skin firming and restoring balm. 

Directions: Apply balm day or night. This balm is best for dry and aging complexions. It can be used in conjunction with Elina Organics moisturizers, serums, or oil-controlling serums for oily complexion.

Ingredients: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, LubomirskiaBaicalensis (Spongilla) Extract, CeraAlba (beeswax), Squalane, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E).

Overall Assessment: This is a really lovely, and effective, balm.

$80.00 for 2 oz from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautybog.com All Rights Reserved.

Elina Organics Naturally You Eyeshadow Palette Review and Swatches

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Elina Organics Naturally You Eyeshadow Palette is a new launch, and what a beauty it is. All six shadows, of which three are matte shades and three are shimmer shades, are creamy dreamy to the touch and they offer exquisite pigmentation. Largely a warm palette, it boasts infinitely wearable eyeshadows the deposit color effortlessly and blend to perfection.The vegan mineral-based shadows are non-toxic, cruelty-free, and they offer crease-free long-lasting wear.

According to Elina Organics,

Feel your best 'Naturally You' with these vegan, mineral-based, and cruelty-free eye shadows, which are silky smooth, crease-free, highly pigmented, and long-lasting. Use alone, layer, or blend to create different looks. This palette contains three shimmer shades and three matte shades, giving you unlimited clean and sophisticated eyeshadow or eyeliner looks for day and night! 

This non-toxic eyeshadow palette is formulated without talc, parabens, formaldehyde, lead, artificial dyes, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, these eyeshadows are enriched with plant-based ingredients like jojoba, lavender, rosemary, peppermint, and lemon.

Ingredients: Jojoba Esters, Mica, Kaolin Clay, Orya Satiza (Rice) Starch, Lavender Oil, Lemon Balm, Marshmallow, Oleyl Alcohol, Oxybenzone, PEG-20 Stearate, Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil, Pigment: CI 77492, CI 77499, CI 77491, CI 77007.

Left to Right: Pearl, Amber, Spirulina, Yarrow, Copper and Cocoa

Overall Assessment: What a lovely palette!

$32.00 for oz. from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Gorgeous Holiday Makeup & Brushes for Your Consideration

Affiliate Links

If you are seeking some wonderful makeup and makeup brushes for this holiday season, then I have some wonderful options for your consideration! Be sure to check all of their Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals this weekend!

1. Beverly Hills MD Thick + Full Brow Enhancing Serum ($88.00 from Beverly Hills MD): Forget microblading and tattoos — because this brilliant serum can give you the look of (real!) full, sexy eyebrows right at home. The best part is, this safe hormone-free formula is designed to work for virtually everyone. So whether your arches are naturally sparse, over-plucked, or thinning with age, you’ll be thrilled with your results!

2. Beverly Hills MD Lash Enhancing Serum ($85.00 from Beverly Hills MD): This non-prescription eyelash treatment helps lashes naturally grow in looking longer, thicker, denser, and darker. The secret is a proprietary blend of natural conditioners and strengthening compounds — which safely works to support healthy hair growth and reduce fallout, for glamorous-looking lashes.

3. Vasanti Cosmetics Synchronicity Eyeshadow Trio Kits ($29.00 each from Vasanti and Amazon): With three choices to choose from (Destiny, Inevitable and Serendipity), these eyeshadow palettes will make your eyes pop with rich metallic shades. Each option is super blend-able and pigmented, offering a silky application.

 

4. Elina Organics Probiotic Face Colour Makeup Sticks ($18.00 each from Elina Organics): Available in Creamy Copper, Sweet Peach and Dusty Pink, each Probiotic Makeup Stick is formulated with pure, high-quality organic ingredients that benefit your skin while simultaneously enhancing your natural beauty. They are created using grapeseed oil, coconut, beeswax, vitamin A, vitamin E, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, spirulina, zinc oxide, and other all-natural goodness that will make you look hydrated.

 

5. Vasanti Cosmetics Stubby Makeup Brush Set ($276.00 from Vasanti and single brushes at Amazon): Featuring 10 different makeup brushes and a metallic envelope bag to keep them in, anyone can be a makeup pro! These brushes have stubby handles for better precision when applying makeup on yourself. With shorter handles you can have more control over the brush and get closer to your mirror when applying. Plus, they are made with 100% synthetic nylon fibers and are cruelty free!

 

6. Vasanti Cosmetics 5 Pack Kajal Waterline Eyeliners ($95.00 from Vasanti and Amazon): Enclosed in a gunmetal grey pouch, these eyeliners are made to comfortably sit in your waterline with zero irritation! Each shade gives you a defined, natural look that makes lashes appear fuller and longer while brightening your eyes for a youthful but polished gaze. The creamy, easy glide formula offers one-stroke colour and a velvety matte finish that lasts all day even on the wet rims of your eyes. Shades Included: Intense Black, Hazel Brown, Slate Grey, Icy Blue, Midnight Green.

7. Vasanti Cosmetics Kajal X Kolors Eyeshadow Palette ($39.00 from Vasanti and Amazon): Vegan and cruelty-free, this eyeshadow palette offers a range of wearable mattes and shimmers in rich pigmented tones that complement all skin tones. It features 8 wearable shades that range from flirty tones to every day neutrals, helping you achieve a complete eye look that has it all. 

8. Elina Organics All Day Stay Natural Mascara ($26.00 from Elina Organics): This 100% natural, 85% organic vegan, and gluten-free formula is enriched with eyelash conditioning and strengthening ingredients, including chamomile, vitamin E, coffee powder, and sunflower seed oil. Its unique brush adds volume, length, and separation to eyelashes evenly and smoothly with no flakes, smudges, or clumps. This buildable color is suitable for short and long lashes and will stay put throughout the day. This long-lasting mascara applies smoothly and removes easily at the end of the day, making it the perfect everyday mascara! This formula is water-resistant. 

Elina Organics Activated Honey Peel Review

Press Sample (Links)

Elina Organics Activated Honey Peel is a wonderfully effective multipurpose peel that evens skin tone, fades hyperpigmentation and leaves skin beautifully bright, luminous and hydrated. It is gentle enough that even people with sensitive can use it without irritating their skin. Additionally, it is filled with effective anti-inflammatory ingredients that prevent redness and irritation, while effectively exfoliating dead skin cells. My skin is left soft, smooth supple and even in tone, and it doesn't leave my skin dry or flaky. I should not that it has no detectable scent, and therefore it should not pose a problem for people with sensitivities to aromatic skincare products.

According to Elina Organics,

Activated Honey Peel contains nourishing Manuka honey which soothes inflamed complexions. It also possesses important antibacterial and antiseptic properties. This peel contains fulvic acid with a specific blend of herbs and ammonia-oxidizing probiotics that work to gently smooth the texture and protect the healthy microbiome of your skin. This peel can even be used on the most sensitive skin over both the face and body. Acne-prone complexions will also greatly benefit from this peel. This peel is specifically beneficial for bumpy areas on the upper arms (keratosis pilaris), especially when combined with Treatment Enzyme Gel.

Directions: This peel can be used during a facial or as a leave-on serum. Apply a thin layer over the skin for 5-10 minutes. Remove with water or herbal tea and proceed with moisturizer. 

Ingredient Highlights:

Manuka Honey Infused with Oxygen - antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, balances pH, exfoliates, helps skin retain moisture.

Fulvic Acid - reduces scarring and discolorations, antimicrobial properties, neutralizes toxins, reduces inflammation, diminishes wrinkles, a powerful antioxidant beneficial for sun-damaged and aging complexions, assists in every stage of cellular rejuvenation, provides a nutritious cocktail of trace minerals and electrolytes which nourish and heal rosacea-prone complexions.

Willow Bark Extract - a natural source of salicylic acid, reduces inflammation, provides gentle exfoliation, speeds healing process, reduces acne and excess oil, hormone-balancing botanical, antibacterial properties.

All Phyto Ingredients Certified Organic: Distilled Water, Manuka Honey Infused with Oxygen, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Extract, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Extract, Laminaria Digitata (Horsetail) Extract, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract, Calendula (Marigold) Extract, Plantago Major (Plantain) Extract, Taraxacum (Dandelion) Extract, Fulvic Acid, Petroselinum (Parsley) Extract, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract, Aesculushippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Extract, Salix Alba (Willow Bark) Extract, Sunflower Liposomes, Xanthomonas (Xanthan Gum).

Overall Assessment: Elina Organics makes high performance products that do what they say they will do, and they do so without harmful ingredients.

$68.00 for 2 oz. from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Elina Organics Treatment Enzyme Gel Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Elina Organics Treatment Enzyme Gel, created by celebrity esthetician Elina Fedotova, is an at-home exfoliating treatment that targets hyperpigmentation and sun damage. This exfoliating gel, which is made from highly concentrated fruit extracts, also hydrates and brightens the complexion. It can be used anywhere on the face or body where you want to treat hyperpigmentation and sun damage, but before treating discoloration it is a very wise idea to see your doctor to make sure that those areas are not precancerous lesions, cancer or melanoma.

While I find that this product is gentle on my skin, and that it does not cause it to become red or irritated, it is not recommended for people with very sensitive skin or advanced rosacea. According to Elina Fedotova, it is especially beneficial for dry, aging, and dull complexions.

I should note that Elina Organics Treatment Enzyme Gel has the delectable aroma of Orange Blossoms, and while I find it otherworldly it may not work for people with sensitivities to aromatic skincare products.

Directions: If using at home, this product can be applied every night on cleansed skin in place of a serum. Follow with your favorite Elina Organics moisturizer. This treatment is not recommended for supersensitive complexions and those with advanced rosacea.

According to Elina Organics,

Treatment Enzyme Gel helps to gently exfoliate and improve skin texture. This gel is a whole fruit-based alternative to retinol (vitamin-A) and contains highly concentrated whole fruit extracts that naturally hydrate, brighten, and firm your skin. This treatment will help get rid of unwanted pigment spots on your face and body. It is especially beneficial for dry, aging, and dull complexions. This gel is a whole fruit-based alternative to retinol (Vitamin A) and contains highly concentrated whole fruit extracts that naturally hydrate, brighten, and firm.

Ingredient Highlights:

• Pomegranate: a natural source of succinic acid & tartaric acid (and other alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)) which have powerful antioxidant effects that firm skin and minimize signs of aging by reducing toxins and free radicals, lightens scars and hyperpigmentation, provides powerful antioxidants, contains natural antimicrobials from Vitamin C.

• Kiwi & Mango: a natural source of beta carotene which is a precursor to vitamin A (retinol) and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), provides other powerful antioxidants.

• Coconut Extract with Probiotics (Lactobacillus): “friendly” bacteria that hydrates and brightens skin, soothes dryness and irritation, reduces acne, minimizes the appearance of wrinkles.

Overall Assessment: This is a really effective at-home exfoliating treatment, and it is a pleasure to use. 

$68.00 for 2 oz. from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Elina Organics Leave On Under Eye Recovery Mask Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Elina Organics Leave On Under Eye Recovery Mask is an antioxidant-rich and emollient nighttime eye mask that deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin. While it is rich, it does not cause milia for me, and it does absorb nicely. Elina Organics suggests using a dime size amount, but I find that I only need to use a tiny little bit for both of my eyes. It softens the appearance of fine lines and it also reduces the appearance of dark circles. Furthermore, when I awaken my skin is plumped, soft, hydrated and radiant. I tried it as an eye cream during the day and found it quite effective as well. It contains no added fragrance, but there is a very faint aroma from the natural ingredients.

According to Elina Organics,

Containing Vitamin C (30%) and white truffle mushroom extract, this eye area recovery mask is very rich, nourishing, and hydrating. It will immediately help to restore and firm the area.

Ingredient Highlights:

Mango Butter - a natural anti-aging emollient, contains many antioxidants, smooths skin, soothes dryness.

Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) - stimulates collagen production, smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone by brightening and reducing discolorations.

Vitamin E - moisturizes, improves sun damage, reduces inflammation, promotes healing, antioxidant properties, protects skin from free radicals.

White Truffle Mushroom - a natural source of kojic acid which fades dark spots and brightens, vitamins B and D improve elasticity and support skin, contains ceramides which moisturize and protect your skin, provides a powerful blend of antioxidants.

Directions: Complete your entire nighttime skincare regime. Then, gently dab a dime-size amount of the mask under your eyes and allow it to absorb.

All Phyto Ingredients Certified Organic: Mangifera Indica (Mango) Butter, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C), Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Oil, Tuber Magnatum (White Truffle Mushroom) Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E.).

Overall Assessment: If you haven't tried anything from Elina Organics, this is definitely a brand to try. This eye mask is effective, and it delivers real results. 

$36.00 for .2 oz. from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Elina Organics Cranberry Rose Skin Refiner Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Elina Organics Cranberry Rose Skin Refiner is an antioxidant-rich exfoliator that is filled with vitamins and nourishing ingredients that protect the skin, while fruit enzymes and little exfoliating particles remove dead skin cells. It can be used on the face, lips, neck and décolleté, and it is gentle enough that people with dry and sensitive skin should be able to use it without irritation. I like to gently massage it into my skin and then let it sit for a few minutes so that the fruit enzymes can really work their magic. The end result is silky-smooth, soft, hydrated skin with pronounced clarity. This product has the texture of a fruit compote with a light aroma informed by the natural ingredients.

According to Elina Organics,

This plant-based skin refiner contains an abundance of antioxidants, vitamin C and B, and beta-keratin (precursor of Retinol) to nourish your skin and reduce fine lines. Fruit enzymes help to remove excess dead skin cells and soften your skin’s appearance. This product will also gently polish your skin and fade discoloration with crushed rosehips and cranberries. The extract of manuka honey will leave your skin feeling hydrated and rejuvenated after use.

Directions: On damp skin, gently massage a dime-size amount over your lips and face 1-3 times a week. For more intense exfoliation and anti-aging benefits, you can leave it on as a mask for 3-5 minutes. This product is especially beneficial for those who have a dry complexion.

Ingredient Highlights:

Rosehip Powder - exfoliates and brightens, rich in natural vitamins (A, B, C), encourages cell regeneration, reduces hyperpigmentation, soothes redness

Cranberry - a source of vitamin C and E which fight free radicals, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, reduces hyperpigmentation, exfoliates

Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) - stimulates collagen production, smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone by brightening and reducing discolorations

Rye Seed Extract - a natural source of azelaic acid, encourages cell turnover and healing, brightens complexion, reduces inflammation, removes dead skin cells

Manuka Honey - balances pH, exfoliates, helps skin retain moisture, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

All Phyto Ingredients Certified Organic: Rosa Canina Flower Extract (Rose Water), Rosa Canina Fruit (Rosehip) Powder, Vegetable Glycerin, Manuka Honey, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Rosa-Sinensis Flower Extract (Hibiscus), Punica Granatum Seed Oil (Pomegranate), Azelaic Acid Extracted from Rye Seeds, Gardenia Taitensis (Monoi) Flower Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C), Sunflower Phospholipids, Resveratrol (from Organic Grapes), Acetic Acid (Extracted from Apple Cider Vinegar), Essential Oils: Rosa Canina (Rose.).

Overall Assessment: This is such an effective exfoliating mask, and the results are pretty magical. If Elina Organics isn't on your radar, it definitely should be!

$48.00 for 1 oz. from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Elina Organics Skin Recovery Protective Healing Cream

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

Elina Organics makes so many fantastic products, and my most recent discovery is the Elina Organics Skin Recovery Protective Healing Cream. This multipurpose healing cream is a true skincare warrior. It heals acne, Rosacea and calms irritated and inflamed skin. It also works wonders on maskne, dry and chapped skin, and essentially helps heal a wide variety of unpleasant and uncomfortable skin issues. Lately my skin has been a bit dehydrated (heated interiors, cooler exteriors) and I have had some breakouts, and this cream has helped hydrate my skin and heal the breakouts. It is a lightweight and fast absorbing cream with the consistency of a light lotion or serum, and it has an herbal aroma that dissipates quickly. This is the type of medicine cabinet product to have on hand for those times that you need an effective healing formula.

According to Elina Organics,

A lot of products for acne-prone and inflamed complexions have a drying effect on the skin. This cream is specifically formulated for irritated, inflamed, stressed, and acne-prone dry complexion. Extracts of Arnica and Spongilla have been used for centuries to heal bruised and damaged skin. Colloidal Copper additionally to its antiseptic properties also helps to rebuild collagen and elastin as well as speed up the skin healing process. 

IF YOU ARE PRONE TO HAVE ACNE AND ROSACEA: it is suggested to use the Skin Recovery Protective Healing Cream after you use your Herbal Cleanser, Rescue Sanitizing Mist, and Oil Control Formula over problem areas.

IF YOU WEAR PPE: such as special glasses and face masks, we suggest using this cream in conjunction with Rescue Sanitizing Mist to avoid bruising and irritation. 

IF YOU ARE PRONE TO HAVE DEHYDRATED, INFLAMED, AND IRRITATED COMPLEXION: we suggest to use it as your daily moisturizer in combination with your other favorite Elina Organics products.

BENEFITS OF COLLOIDAL COPPER: Treats wounds, infections, and burns. It stimulates the formation of collagen and elastin and helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while tightening and thickening the skin. It’s a potent antioxidant for the skin. It helps retain moisture while giving your skin a nice healthy glow.

BENEFITS OF ARNICA EXTRACT: The Arnica plant is known for its healing properties. It can be applied to the skin in order to heal bruises more quickly and soothe inflammation. Arnica has been known to work wonders with acne, even in very difficult, cystic (hormonal) cases. 

BENEFITS OF SPONGILLA EXTRACT (FRESHWATER SPONGE): Spongilla also is known as Badyaga, is used to reduce puffiness, irritation, and discolorations. It will help to calm and heal the skin. 

Ingredients: Purified water, organic Vegetable Glycerin, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Calendula Flower Extract, Spongilla Alba (Fresh Water Sponge), Colloidal Copper, Organic Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Phospholipids, Betula Alba (Brich) Juice, Xantham Gum, Tocopherol (vitamin E). Glyceryl Stearate, Zinc Oxide, Leuconostoc (Radish) Root Ferment, Lactobacillus, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut).*All ingredients are certified organic

Overall Assessment: This is a first-rate healing cream that is definitely worthy of your consideration! A+

$52.00 for 2 oz. from Elina Organics (Unaffiliated Links).

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

Elina Organics Dry Complexion Firming Cream

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Elina Organics Dry Complexion Firming Cream, while formulated for dry skin, is working wonders on my normal/combination skin during these colder months. This antioxidant-rich cream is ultra-emollient, and yet very lightweight and fast absorbing. In fact, it is so lightweight that it is almost watery and yet it melts into the skin in the most luxurious way. Skin is left deeply nourished, very moisturized and protected. I notice that the texture of my skin is soft, smooth, supple, luminous and fine lines are softened. It has no detectable aroma, and it does not clog my pores or cause me to break out. This is a really lovely moisturizing cream that is a wonderful choice for the colder months of the year.

According to Alina Organics,

Intense Nourishment & Hydration. This rich Cocoa based formula is infused with Sea Buckthorn Oil, Silk Amino Acids, and Reishi Mushroom Extract to restore, nourish, and protect dry complexion.

This cream has a high concentration of Sea Buckthorn Oil. It is one of Elina’s favorite skincare ingredients because it has the most balanced cocktail of beauty and skin healing nutrients like beta keratin – a pre curser of Vitamin A. Sea Buckthorn Oil contains more Vitamin C than even oranges. It is loaded with antioxidants, including Vitamin C and E, and contains carotenes, flavonoids, omega 3 and 6 and numerous minerals and collagen building amino acids. This skin restoring cream is also enriched with face shielding silk amino acids which help to firm and protect the skin from harsh wind and over drying indoor heaters.

Ingredients: All Phyto Ingredients Certified Organic: Distilled Water, Bioenergized Extracts of Aloe Vera, Dioscorea (Wild Yam), Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover), Rosa Damascena (Rose) Petals, Ginseng, Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi Mushroom), Spirulina (Blue-Green Algae), Persea americana (Avocado) Oil, Cocoa Butter, Coffee Butter, Avena Sativa (Oat) Extract, Organic Organic Sunflower Phospholipid Liposome Gel, Green Amber Extract, Hippophae (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Extract of Salix Nigra (Black Willow), Oenothera biennis L.(Evening Primrose Oil) Acacia Honey, Fulvic Minerals, Silk Peptides (Silk Amino Acid), Xanthan Gum, Extract of Saccharum officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary Oleoresin), Extract of Propolis.

Overall Assessment: This is a lovely moisturizer, and my skin couldn't be happier.

$80.00 for 2 oz. from Elina Organics and the Elina Organics Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.