June Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Purchased & Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

In the month of June, I managed to finish 6 full-size products (2 for the hair, 2 for the face, 1 for the body and 1 from my makeup collection). Without question, I loved all of these products enough to finish every last bit, and I would happily use all of them again and again.

milk_shake Curl Passion Leave-In Spray: This leave-in is absolutely perfect for people with curly hair, like me! If you have curly or wavy hair then this may be a must-have for you, as it is for me. I have naturally curly hair, and it can be unruly at times, and therefore a reliable and effective leave-in spray is essential to keep my hair in great shape. It fights frizz, hydrates and leaves hair manageable. It doesn't weigh hair down, it doesn't flake, but instead it nourishes and it facilitates bouncy and perfected soft-to-the-touch curls. I always use leave-in treatments to make my hair manageable, and this one is definitely obsession-worthy. It also has a delectable fruity aroma that smells like summertime captured in a bottle!  milk_shake is a cruelty-free haircare brand that makes products for every type of hair, and after testing their Curl Passion range of products, I can emphatically state that this is a brand worth trying. Purchase Again? I just opened another bottle! ($28.00 for 10.1 oz. from milk_shake and Amazon)

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in Light Golden Chestnut 5D: For many years I used drugstore brand at-home hair dyes, but the last couple of times that I did I noticed that my scalp became dry and irritated. I decided to try something a little different, and I kept seeing Herbatint Permanent Hair Color Gel, and I decided to try it. This Italian brand, founded in 1970, is cruelty-free, vegan and it has a wide range of colors from which to choose. I have naturally curly dark brown hair that naturally lightens up in the summer, and therefore during the cooler months I tried their Light Chestnut 5N, and for the summer I tried their Light Golden Chestnut 5D, and both are stunning shades.

I mixed the hair color gel and the developer until it became a thick gel that was uniform in color. I carefully brushed it from roots to tips and then left it on for 40 minutes. This formula was tested on sensitive skin, and it definitely did not irritate, burn or tingle my scalp. I rinsed it out after 40 minutes and then applied their wonderful Royal Cream Conditioner– which comes with the hair color. This conditioner is lightweight and yet incredibly emollient and moisturizing. When I was done my hair was uniformly a gorgeous chestnut shade, but it was darker than on the box since my hair was quite dark to start with.

This formula neither dries out my scalp, nor my hair, and the color lasts for a few months before I need a touch up.

Herbatint encourages mixing shades to customize your hair color, and they also suggest that you can mix up just a small amount if you only need to do root-touch up. Whether you have any grey hair you seek to cover, or just roots that differ from the rest of your color, then just doing a root touch-up makes a lot of sense. I don't have much grey hair, but there are some strands here and there, and this does an excellent job of covering them. I simply use half the normal amount, as Herbatint suggests, and it works perfectly! Purchase Again? I already have! ($17.99 from Amazon, iHerb, Walmart)

The A Method Cleanse Silky Vitamin C (The A Method Amazon Store. I believe this was discontinued): This Antioxidant cleanser, with Vitamin C, leaves the skin clean, but not stripped, and it has a wonderful dense and creamy lather. I love the way that my skin feels after using this cleanser– hydrated and silky-smooth. Purchase Again? I found a new tube in my cabinet, but since I can't find it online, I suspect that it's either being reformulated, or that it was simply discontinued.

Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream: This is an emollient gel cream, from this wonderful K-Beauty brand, that is ultra-lightweight and that immediately melts into the skin. It contains Niacinimide that reduces the appearance of dark spots and blemishes, but it is for all types of skin, not just people who are acne prone. It leaves skin soft, moisturized and radiant.

The Hyaluronic Acid provides deep and sustained hydration, and gently plumps fine lines. It is filled with soothing ingredients, such as Panthenol, that calm irritated skin– including breakouts. My skin isn't prone to acne, but it can get irritated, and this wonderful moisturizer really calms it down when my skin is reactive. I will also say that it is such a wonderful daily moisturizer during the summer since it is lightweight and thoroughly hydrating. Purchase Again? I would definitely buy this again, but I need to use up a lot of open tubes and jars of face cream first. 

($27.00 for 1.69 oz. from Dr. Althea, iHerb, Stylevana, Amazon and YesStyle)

Trader Joe's Bergamot & Vetiver Scented Hand Soap: This was a limited-time hand soap, and it sold out. What an absolute delight this is, and I really hope that they bring it back. In fact, I went back to buy 3 more bottles before they sold out, and now have two left. This beautiful citrusy floral scent is such a treat to the senses, and rather than drying out my hands, they are left lightly moisturized. The last time that I went to the same Trader Joe's they didn't have any left, but I plan to try again to get a few more bottles before they are gone altogether. I hope that there is enough demand for this lovely liquid hand soap that Trader Joe's considers making it part of their regular collection of hand soaps! A+ Purchase Again? In a heartbeat! Fingers crossed that they bring it back! ($3.99 for 12 oz. from Trader Joe's)

Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa: This brand makes my very favorite eyeliner pencils and their Bronze and Cocoa shades are my very favorite colors to wear daily. I think that the formula is absolutely superior to everything else on the market. They are creamy to the touch, ultra-pigmented, and once they set they do not budge. They are waterproof without being harsh, and they glide across the skin effortlessly, deposit color evenly and they do not bleed or feather. There is a sponge-tip applicator on each liner that allows you to smudge effortlessly, and you have enough time to smudge before the liners set. On me, these liners stay put until I remove them at the end of the day. Cocoa is aptly described as as, "a decadent rich matte brown"– and it is gorgeous!

Victoria Beckham Beauty is a cruelty-free brand, and these liners are infused with Vitamin E, hydrating pro-vitamin B5, and calming chamomile. They are quite kind and gentle to sensitive eyes like mine, and they can also be used on the waterline and for tight-lining. The colors are spectacularly beautiful independently, but they can also be blended to soften or intensify the lighter and darker shades, respectively. I like to wear several of them at the same time. For instance, I like to first line my upper and lower lids with a color such as Bronze, and then I smudge Black into my lash line to intensify the effect, but also to frame my eyes using a darker color in my lash line for a more stunning visual effect. is a decadent rich matte brown. Purchase Again? I already have! ($35.00 each from Victoria Beckham Beauty, bluemercury, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman)

Overall Assessment: As I said, I would happily use all of these products again and again! What did you use up, toss out, give away, or return in June? Any amazing product discoveries? Any regrettable duds?

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

Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

April 2026 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

During the month of April, I finished up 8 products: 6 were full size and 2 were deluxe travel sizes. I can say, without hesitation, that I would happily use all of these products again, and I was delighted by each one of them. Here is what I finished in April 2026:

The A Method Reti-Xo Retinol Exosome Serum is a highly effective gel-based retinol serum that is worthy of note. The lightweight gel serum, which is cruelty-free, gluten-free, fragrance-free and vegan, is effective, easy to use and it doesn't dry out my skin or leave it flaky. It stimulates cell turn-over and collagen production and skin fresh and glowing. 

It is extraordinarily important to use a high SPF sunscreen when using retinol-based products because they can cause photosensitivity, and in the absence of a high SPF sunscreen the use of a retinol-based product can lead to hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation. It is also very important to consult with your doctor and/or dermatologist before adding a retinol-based product into your skincare routine. You may have suspicious moles, spots or lesions that could be cancerous or pre-cancerous, and they need to be treated medically before adding cosmetic treatments that could exfoliate those skin conditions. Your doctor may say that retinol-based products simply aren't a good core for your skin. Additionally, some medications that you may be taking may create photosensitivity, and your doctor should evaluate the products that you are thinking of adding to your skincare routine before you decide to try them. Purchase Again? If I can find it on sale! 

($135.00- $349.00 for 1.52 oz from The A Method and Amazon)

Dr. Althea Green Tea Fresh Sunscreen is made by a wonderful K-Beauty skincare brand, and this SPF50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen is lightweight and it leaves behind no white cast, whatsoever.  Formulated with green tea leaf water, and seven different types of centella extract to, "reduce redness and leave skin feeling refreshed. Sodium DNA in the mix enhances skin barrier repair. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and oily skin." It has no scent, and it feels very comfortable on the skin. I have also noted that it serves as a very nice base for my foundation or tinted moisturizer, functioning much like a primer. Purchase Again? Definitely! 

($19.90 for 1.52 oz. from YesStyle, Style Korean and StyleVana) 

Dr. Althea Aqua Glowing Sunscreen is the second sunscreen (the first is reviewed HERE) that I have used from Dr. Althea, a notable K-Beauty brand, and I really like it a lot. It is a very lightweight and non-sticky chemical sunscreen, with an SPF 50+, that is hydrating and sinks into the skin without leaving behind any sort of white filmy residue. It actually feels more like a serum than a sunscreen, and it offers excellent protection from the sun. Of course, one has to reapply it frequently to benefit from it, but it is so pleasant to use that it isn't an issue having to reapply it. Additionally, this sunscreen is formulated with "bamboo water, sea grape extract and vegan seaweed-derived PDRN to hydrate skin and accelerate skin barrier repair. Also enriched with panthenol to soothe irritated skin." Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and dry skin. Purchase Again? YES! 

($19.90 for 45ml. from Dr. Althea, Stylevana and YesStyle)

Twelve Beauty Rewarding Body Balm is a gorgeous body balm is aptly described as a "lush body pudding"– and it really must be experienced to be believed. The velvety texture of this thick and rich cream melts into the skin leaving it indescribably soft, smooth, deeply moisturized and luminous. The antioxidant-rich formula adds a layer of protection against free-radical damage, and the soothing and nourishing ingredients pamper the skin. The light aroma is luscious and exhilarating, but is neither imposing, nor long lasting. It is the perfect pick for dry skin that really needs deep moisture. Purchase Again? In a heartbeat! 

($75.00-$90.00 for 6.8 oz. from Twelve Beauty and Boxwalla)

Siam Seas Kwam Rak Radiance Body Serum is an absolutely delectable hybrid body serum that deeply hydrates and moisturizes the body with the efficacy of a rich body lotion and an emollient body oil combined. It has a remarkably lightweight texture that is creamy and it melts into the skin in the most satisfying way. Skin is left soft, smooth, supple, radiant and silky to the touch. The complex aroma transforms from a spicy earthy scent to a more complex floral punctuated by Jasmine Sambac.

This beautiful serum made in a base of aloe and this allows it to absorb into dry skin with great efficacy, but I still prefer applying it to slightly damp skin since it spreads and absorbs quicker and more efficiently. Purchase Again? OH YES! 

($103.00 for 3.4oz. from Siam Seas and Beauty Heroes)

Trader Joe's Pink Pomelo Grapefruit Hand Soap is a wonderful hand soap that produces a satisfying lather, and yet they neither strip, nor dry out the hands. The  aroma isn't an overly powerful citrus, but instead, it is uplifting, pleasant and delightful. Hands are left soft, nourished and lightly hydrated. Purchase Again? I already have!

($3.99 for 17 oz. from Trader Joe's)

Herbatint Royal Conditioner is the conditioner that comes in each box of Herbatint Permanent Hair Color. This hair color is healthier than most permanent hair dyes and is far more forgiving on my scalp than most of the drugstore brands of hair color. Herbatint Royal Conditioner, that they include in their box of hair dye, is utterly covet-worthy. This lightweight conditioner, that you use immediately after coloring your hair, makes freshly colored hair soft, moisturized, smooth and shiny! I managed to finish up two tubes of it this month! Purchase Again? Without question! 

($17.99 for their Permanent Haircolor Gel from iHerb, Amazon and Walmart)

Overall Assessment: I am such a huge fan of these brands, and specifically these particular products. As noted above, I would happily use all of them again, and again! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in April? Did you make any amazing product discoveries, or did you try any over-hyped duds?

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

Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Herbatint Hair Color Sale Up to 20% Off on Amazon

Affiliate Links

As you know by now, I am an Herbatint Permanent Hair Color convert. I love this Italian haircare brand so much, and I don't ever see using another brand again. I was delighted to discover them on sale on Amazon, and promptly bought 4 boxes, and will probably go back for more. Here is my review, if you want to know more about their permanent hair color. 
 

February 2026 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I managed to finish up 5 full-size products for the face, body and hair in February, and I would happily use all of them again, and in fact, in most cases, I already have replaced them. The Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in Light Golden Chestnut 5D and the LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Pure Vanilla are absolutely holy grail products for me, and I will always replace them since I never want to be without them.

Lancôme Advanced Génifique Serum ($89.00-$220.00 for 1 oz. to 3.4 oz. from Lancôme, Nordstrom, Sephora, Amazon, Ulta): This seriously hydrating serum keeps skin quenched and skin dewy. I have been using it in the morning and the evening every single day for months and I just love how hydrated, luminous and nourished my skin looks and feels. I really love how well this works for my skin. This particular bottle was part of the Lancôme Emily in Paris launch, but it is the same great formula!   Purchase Again? I think that I have one bottle left, but need to find it. I will definitely use this again!

Dove Beauty Bar Original ($5.39-$14.99 for 2-8 bar packs from Amazon, Target, Walgreens): This gentle, creamy cleansing bar contains ¼ moisturizing cream that leaves skin soft smooth and very clean. I have used it for many years, and absolutely love it! Purchase Again? Unquestionably! 

LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Pure Vanilla ($13.00 for 2 oz. from LAVANILA, Amazon and Target): This is a wonderful healthy deodorant formula that is effective, smells delicious and offers long-lasting protection. Made from Pure Madagascar vanilla, creamy tonka bean, and a soft heliotrope blend, this delicious fragrance is a treat to the senses. The Pure Vanilla scent is warm and creamy perfection, and wearing it is a real pleasure.

If you are seeking an antiperspirant, then be advised that this does not prevent sweating. This has been my favorite healthy deodorant for many years now, and I will use it as long as LAVANILA makes it. It applies to the skin effortlessly, without tugging, and it never leaves a residue or stain on the clothes. This is a cruelty-free brand and their deodorants are free of aluminum and parabens. Purchase Again? I already opened another one!

Y’OUR Body Lotion ($29.00 for 6.7 oz. from Y'OUR and their Amazon Store): This is a fragrance-free, cruelty-free ultra-emollient body lotion that has the thickness of a body cream, but the emollience and absorption of a lighter lotion. The velvety texture of this fragrance-free lotion melts into the skin immediately and leaves even the driest skin feeling soft, smooth, supple and very moisturized. Purchase Again? I loved this body lotion so much that I would happily use it again, but I need to use some open bottles and jars of body moisturizers first.

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in Light Golden Chestnut 5D ($17.99 from Herbatint, Amazon, iHerb, Walmart):  For many years I used drugstore brand at-home hair dyes, but the last couple of times that I did I noticed that my scalp became dry and irritated. I decided to try something a little different, and I kept seeing Herbatint Permanent Hair Color Gel, and I decided to try it. This Italian brand, founded in 1970, is cruelty-free, vegan and it has a wide range of colors from which to choose. I have naturally curly dark brown hair that naturally lightens up in the summer, and therefore during the cooler months I tried their Light Chestnut 5N, and for the summer I tried their Light Golden Chestnut 5D, and both are stunning shades.

I mixed the hair color gel and the developer until it became a thick gel that was uniform in color. I carefully brushed it from roots to tips and then left it on for 40 minutes. This formula was tested on sensitive skin, and it definitely did not irritate, burn or tingle my scalp. I rinsed it out after 40 minutes and then applied their wonderful Royal Cream Conditioner– which comes with the hair color. This conditioner is lightweight and yet incredibly emollient and moisturizing. When I was done my hair was uniformly a gorgeous chestnut shade, but it was darker than on the box since my hair was quite dark to start with.

This formula neither dries out my scalp, nor my hair, and the color lasts for a few months before I need a touch up.

Herbatint encourages mixing shades to customize your hair color, and they also suggest that you can mix up just a small amount if you only need to do root-touch up. Whether you have any grey hair you seek to cover, or just roots that differ from the rest of your color, then just doing a root touch-up makes a lot of sense. I don't have much grey hair, but there are some strands here and there, and this does an excellent job of covering them. I simply use half the normal amount, as Herbatint suggests, and it works perfectly! Purchase Again? I already have!

Overall Assessment: I thoroughly enjoyed every product that I finished up in February, and will happily use all of them again! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in February? Any great discoveries or serious misses to report?

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

Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

December 2025 Empties for the Face, Body and Hair

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

During the busy month of December, I managed to finish up 5 full-size products, and would happily use all of them again. I finished up 2 face products, 2 body products and 1 hair product. 

Y'OUR Cleanser (Available from Y'OUR Skincare and their Amazon Store): This cleanser is a very gentle and lightly lathering, and it thoroughly cleans without ever stripping my skin. It rinses clean and leaves my skin soft and comfortable. Additionally, it is fragrance-free, nourishing and leaves my skin lightly hydrated. It is gentle enough to use morning and night. Purchase Again? I am swimming in facial cleansers right now, but I would happily use this one again!

Dieux Skin Instant Angel Lipid Rich Facial Moisturizer ($45.00 for 50ml and $78.00 for 100ml. from Dieux and Sephora): This is a thoughtfully created cruelty-free and vegan moisturizer that is richly moisturizing. It is a peptide and ceramide-rich formulation that is barrier-supportive and immensely moisturizing for dehydrated skin and skin with a compromised barrier. It is rich and thick, and yet it melts into the skin quickly leaving behind an ethereal glow. It is fragrance-free, with no detectable aroma, and it makes the skin feel so soft, smooth and supple. If you have acne-prone skin, this cream will likely be too rich for you, and you might want to try Dieux Air Angel Gel Cream instead. However, if you have dry or dehydrated skin, then this lipid-rich moisturizer is truly heavenly! Purchase Again? I have too many open face creams to purchase another one right now, but I love this moisturizer and will happily use it again in the future!

Renpure Oat Milk & Ceramides Sensitive Skin Body Wash ($7.50 for 24 oz. and $14.99 for a 2-pack from iHerb, Amazon): This is a lightly fragranced body wash that boasts a very satisfying lather and it leaves skin soft and moisturized, rather than dry and irritated. This body wash is perfect for anyone, but it is formulated especially for people with sensitive skin. It has become my very favorite body wash. It is emollient and delectable, and it rinses clean without any sort of residue. Purchase Again? Without any hesitation. This is currently my very favorite body wash!

TOA WATERS Liquid Bath Bomb in Lockwood Forest ($8.50- $10.99 for 50ml from TOA WATERS, Macy's, TOA WATERS Amazon Store, and ETSY): is a pretty enchanted scent, a truly luxurious to experience in the bath. TOA WATERS describes the Lockwood Forest scent as "Earthy and natural. Infused with Oakmoss, Amber, Vanilla, Sage, and Lavender." It is calming, warm and creamy and utterly delectable. It is moisturizing, rather than drying and it feels utterly luxurious against the skin. Each bottle will give you two wonderful bubble baths, and they are perfect for the cold weather and after a long day on your feet. Purchase Again? I will happily use this again and again!

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in Light Golden Chestnut 5D ($17.49 from Herbatint, Amazon, iHerb, Walmart):  For many years I used drugstore brand at-home hair dyes, but the last couple of times that I did I noticed that my scalp became dry and irritated. I decided to try something a little different, and I kept seeing Herbatint Permanent Hair Color Gel, and I decided to try it. This Italian brand, founded in 1970, is cruelty-free, vegan and it has a wide range of colors from which to choose. I have naturally curly dark brown hair that naturally lightens up in the summer, and therefore during the cooler months I tried their Light Chestnut 5N, and for the summer I tried their Light Golden Chestnut 5D, and both are stunning shades.

I mixed the hair color gel and the developer until it became a thick gel that was uniform in color. I carefully brushed it from roots to tips and then left it on for 40 minutes. This formula was tested on sensitive skin, and it definitely did not irritate, burn or tingle my scalp. I rinsed it out after 40 minutes and then applied their wonderful Royal Cream Conditioner– which comes with the hair color. This conditioner is lightweight and yet incredibly emollient and moisturizing. When I was done my hair was uniformly a gorgeous chestnut shade, but it was darker than on the box since my hair was quite dark to start with. 

This formula neither dries out my scalp, nor my hair, and the color lasts for a few months before I need a touch up.

Herbatint encourages mixing shades to customize your hair color, and they also suggest that you can mix up just a small amount if you only need to do root-touch up. Whether you have any grey hair you seek to cover, or just roots that differ from the rest of your color, then just doing a root touch-up makes a lot of sense. I don't have much grey hair, but there are some strands here and there, and this does an excellent job of covering them. Purchase Again? I already have!

Overall Assessment: I was pleased to recycle 5 containers in the month of December, and would happily use all of these products again. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in December? Any serious discoveries or duds to report?

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

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

September 2025 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

I am rather surprised that I managed to finish up 11 items in the month of September, though admittedly many of them had very little left in their containers. Therefore, it required little effort to finish up many of them. Of the 11 products, only one was a travel size, and the rest were full-size.

Trader Joe's Lavender Chamomile Hand Soap ($3.99 for 17 oz. from Trader Joe's):

If you are sensitive to aromatic hand products, and prefer unscented or fragrance-free, then you will want to skip these. However, if the thought of a lovely and refreshing citrus or lavender scent sounds perfect for you, then Trader Joe's Lavender Chamomile Hand Soap is definitely worthy of your consideration. It produces a satisfying lather, and yet it neither strips, nor dries out the hands. It doesn't overpower with the potential pungency of lavender because it is tempered by the chamomile, and it is uplifting, pleasant and delightful. Hands are left soft, nourished and lightly hydrated. Purchase Again? On my next trip to Trader Joe's!

Bisous de Provence Lemon Verbena Triple Milled Soap ($3.99 for 7 oz. bar from Trader Joe's): If you love high quality French milled soaps, and you don't want to spend a fortune, then you really must try this beautiful soap from Trader Joe's. This luxurious, and delectably scented soap, which is made in France, costs a mere $3.99 for a 7 oz. bar. It boasts a wonderful rich lather, it smells utterly divine and it makes an overall excellent hand soap or body bar. If you shop at Trader Joe's, I highly recommend trying this wonderful bar! Purchase Again? On my next trip to Trader Joe's!

Spongellé Hand Cream in French Lavender ($21.00 for 2 oz. from Spongellé):  Spongellé Hand Creams are the perfect antidote for dry hands, and I have used their hand creams for quite a few years now. Spongellé Hand Creams are available in 8 delightfully fragrant scents, and they offer serious hydration. They feature ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Argan Oil and Macademia Seed Oil that deeply moisturize and heal chapped hands, and the Hyaluronic Acid retains moisture and plumps fine lines. After using these hand creams, my poor chapped hands are left soft, smooth, nourished, hydrated and luminous! French Lavender notes: Top: Hesperides. Middle: Tea Rose, Amber. Base: Lavender Tea, Spicy, Woody. Purchase Again? I have other scents from them, but I would definitely buy this again in the future.

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in Light Golden Chestnut 5D ($17.49 from Herbatint, Amazon, iHerb, Walmart and Swanson):  For many years I used drugstore brand at-home hair dyes, but the last couple of times that I did I noticed that my scalp became dry and irritated. I decided to try something a little different, and I kept seeing Herbatint Permanent Hair Color Gel, and I decided to try it. This Italian brand, founded in 1970, is cruelty-free, vegan and it has a wide range of colors from which to choose. I have naturally curly dark brown hair that naturally lightens up in the summer, and therefore during the cooler months I tried their Light Chestnut 5N, and for the summer I tried their Light Golden Chestnut 5D, and both are stunning shades.

I mixed the hair color gel and the developer until it became a thick gel that was uniform in color. I carefully brushed it from roots to tips and then left it on for 40 minutes. This formula was tested on sensitive skin, and it definitely did not irritate, burn or tingle my scalp. I rinsed it out after 40 minutes and then applied their wonderful Royal Cream Conditioner– which comes with the hair color. This conditioner is lightweight and yet incredibly emollient and moisturizing. When I was done my hair was uniformly a gorgeous chestnut shade, but it was darker than on the box since my hair was quite dark to start with. 

This formula neither dries out my scalp, nor my hair, and the color lasts for a few months before I need a touch up.

Herbatint encourages mixing shades to customize your hair color, and they also suggest that you can mix up just a small amount if you only need to do root-touch up. Whether you have any grey hair you seek to cover, or just roots that differ from the rest of your color, then just doing a root touch-up makes a lot of sense. I don't have much grey hair, but there are some strands here and there, and this does an excellent job of covering them. Purchase Again? I have two more boxes, but will definitely purchase it again!

Kérastase Paris Discipline Fondant Fluidealiste ($50.00 for 6.8 oz. from Kérastase Paris, Amazon, Sephora): Smooth-in-motion conditioner makes hair extremely soft to the touch. This is a fantastic daily conditioner that leaves hair moisturized, soft, smooth, shiny and manageable. It fights frizz, nourishes the hair and gives it a lovely shine! Purchase Again? This is one of my all-time favorite conditioners, and I will eventually buy it again, but right now I have too many open conditioners to buy another one.

JR Liggett’s Original Formula Conditioner Bar ($14.99 for 1.75 oz. from JR Liggett's, Amazon, iHerb): This bar conditioner is moisturizing and frizz-fighting, but it doesn't weigh down hair or leave behind an oily residue. Hair is left soft, smooth and manageable, and it has a wonderful natural herbal aroma that is thoroughly pleasant and uplifting. Purchase Again? I would definitely use this conditioner again, but as I said above, I have far too many open conditioners to buy any for quite a long time.

OUAI Wave Spray ($30.00 for 6 oz. and $16.00 for 3 oz. and $28.00 for 4.9 oz. from OUAI, Sephora and Ulta): This is a wonderful non-sticky spray for effortless looking beachy waves. It has a weightless texture, it doesn't flake or make hair crunchy, s I run out.and it is suitable for all types of hair. While I have curly hair, this wonderful spray offers my hair touchable hold and enhances my curls. Purchase Again? YES, I  will definitely purchase a full size bottle!

Y'OUR Skin Night Cream (Available from Y'OUR Skincare and their Amazon Store): If you looking for a personalized skincare routine, then it is worth becoming acquainted with Y'OUR Skincare. I tried their custom skincare several years ago, and since that time they have reformulated their products. While thick and emollient, this night cream is remarkably lightweight and fast absorbing. It has a lovely texture that melts into the skin without leaving behind a greasy and unpleasant residue. After use, my skin is immediately soft, smooth, supple and ultra-moisturized. It is fragrance-free and it has no detectable aroma, whatsoever. Purchase Again? I have far too many open creams and lotions to justify purchasing more, but I really like this night cream a lot.

Y'OUR Skin Day Cream with SPF (Available from Y'OUR Skincare and their Amazon Store): This daytime face cream is lightweight, emollient and fast absorbing. It nourishes and moisturizes my skin all day long, and it leaves behind no greasy residue. It is fragrance-free and has no detectable aroma, and it leaves my skin soft, smooth and supple. Since it contains a sunscreen, I can skip an additional sunscreen. Though I still carry a sunscreen with me to reapply throughout the day. Purchase Again? I have far too many open creams and lotions to justify purchasing more, but I really like this day cream a lot.

Olivia Umma Glass Skin Strawberry & Tangerine Serum ($48.00 for 1.35 oz. from Olivia Umma, Amazon and Urban Outfitters):  is a Vitamin C serum that is made from strawberries and tangerines, and therefore it is rich in vitamins A, B and E. This serum is formulated to brighten and revitalize the skin, and therefore to help improve your skin tone. The serum has a lightweight gel-like texture that immediately melts into the skin without leaving behind a sticky or greasy residue. It has a very faint  fruity aroma, but it is neither assertive, nor long lasting. It leaves my skin brightened, luminous and hydrated. Purchase Again? I loved using this, and would happily use it again, but I need to use more of my open serums first!

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum ($72.00 for 1.01 oz. from Vitabrid C¹² and Amazon): This wonderful antioxidant-rich serum offers skin incredible hydration and protection from free-radical damage. It boasts a blend of novel peptides that help boost collagen production, and the result is the appearance of firmer skin and plumped fine lines. Their antioxidant formula, which is infused with Niacinamide, Bisabolol and Citric Acid, helps to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation. The serum is mid-weight, fast absorbing, non-sticky and fragrance-free, and it leaves my skin soft, supple, smooth and incredibly luminous. Purchase Again? I just opened a new bottle, it really is that good!

Overall Assessment: I somehow doubt that I will be able to use up this many products in October because I am currently using lots of products that are quite full, but who knows! What dod you use up, toss out, give away or return in September? Any serious discoveries or duds to report?

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links). Available all views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

July 2025 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

I managed to finish up 7 products in the month of July, and almost finished up one of my bar shampoos that will end up being finished in the first few days of August. All but three products were full size and the remaining three were deluxe travel sizes. I would happily use everything again, and thoroughly enjoyed each one of them. Here is what I thought of each thing I finished in July:

Curél Deep Moisture Spray ($15.00 for 5.4 oz. from the Curél Amazon Store): This is one of my very favorite moisturizers for the warmer months, and I have been using it for more than a year, and plan to use it as long as they make it! It is just perfect for the warm/hot weather, and I use it daily. This ultra-fine moisture mist can be used on the face and body and it sinks in immediately leaving skin nourished and hydrated. It is fragrance-free, easy to use and effective. It is especially satisfying on a hot day to refresh the skin with a spritz here and there. Additionally, because it is so light and hydrating it doesn't feel heavy on the skin. It does not, however, contain a sunscreen, so you will need to add your sunscreen after you apply this spray.

I keep mine in the shower, and use it there as well. I spray it on lightly towel dried skin, and then let it sink in before getting dressed. It offers wonderful hydration and it is just so easy to use. Purchase Again? Oh yes, most definitely! 

[ comfort zone ] SUBLIME SKIN Cream ($161.00 for 2.13 oz. from [comfort zone], Nordstrom and Amazon): This is yet another product, made in Italy by the Davines Skincare Division, about which I am deliriously happy. This nourishing cream, which is very emollient and hydrating, is lightweight, fast-absorbing and it leaves behind no oily residue. The texture is velvety smooth and creamy, and the experience feels luxurious and indulgent when massaged into the skin. Formulated for normal to dry skin, it offers deep hydration, because this is a Hyaluronic Acid-based cream, and therefore it plumps fine lines and leaves skin more firm in appearance. Skin is left indescribably baby soft, supple, smooth in texture and luminous. It has a faint aroma, which might be described as an herbal/floral scent, but it is neither long-lasting, nor is it in the least bit cloying. Purchase Again? I won't need to buy another face cream for quite some time, but this is definitely one that I would happily use again!

The A Method Pearls of Retinol (The A Method® Pearls of Retinol - 0.5% - $104.00 & 1% - $124.00 from The A Method. The A Method® Skin Perfecting Serum - $100 from The A Method. The A Method is also sold in their Amazon Store): This retinol comes in two strengths, a milder 0.5% concentration of All-Trans Retinol and the stronger 1% concentration. If you are new to Retinol, I recommend the 0.5% concentration, and work your way up to the 1%. The golden micro-encapsulated "pearls"– which are All-Trans Retinol– are suspended in a wonderfully hydrating solution that contains Hyaluronic Acid and nourishing extracts that kept my finicky skin from drying out and visibly peeling. It is a lightweight and fast absorbing serum that immediately leaves skin hydrated. The formula helps skin cell turnover and collagen production without irritating the skin. This formula softens the appearance of fine lines, reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and brightens the skin. 

It is important to use a high SPF sunscreen when using retinol-based products, and it is imperative to have your skin looked at by your family physician or dermatologist to make sure that the spots and irregularities that you want to treat are neither pre-cancerous, nor cancerous lesions. I have my skin fully evaluated during my yearly physicals, and I usually bring my doctor the list of ingredients of products that I am considering before I use them. I am not a medical doctor, and I consult with mine regularly to make sure that I am not doing something potentially dangerous to my skin. Purchase Again? I just opened the 1% strength since the one I just finished was the 0.5% strength.

R+Co Death Valley Dry Shampoo ($18.00 for 1.6 oz and $37.00 for 6.3 oz. from R+Co, Amazon, Nordstrom, bluemercury and Dermstore): This is a wonderful volumizing dry shampoo that adds body between the times that you shampoo the hair. Purchase Again? I love the quality of this dry shampoo so much that I will definitely buy the full size next time I run out of my current full size dry shampoo.

Herbatint Royal Conditioner ($16.99 for their Permanent Haircolor Gel from iHerb, Herbatint, Amazon and Walmart): I recently discovered the Italian haircare company that makes what has become my very favorite hair dye. It is healthier than most permanent hair dyes and is far more forgiving on my scalp than most of the drugstore brands of hair color. I plan to review the Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel soon, but for now I want to state for the record that the Herbatint Royal Conditioner, that they include in their box of hair dye, is utterly covet-worthy. This lightweight conditioner, that you use immediately after coloring your hair, makes freshly colored hair soft, moisturized, smooth and shiny! Purchase Again? Without question! 

Trader Joe's Oatmeal Exfoliant Bar in Almond Ginger ($3.99 for 8.8oz from Trader Joe's) This is a seriously worthy purchase the next time that you shop at Trader Joe's. This French milled soap has little oatmeal exfoliating particles that gently lift dead skin and the luxurious lather releases the delectable almond ginger aroma. It cleans skin beautifully, and at $3.99 (8.8 oz. bar) it is a perfect budget-friendly pick for washing the hands and body. Purchase Again? Yes, on my next trip to Trader Joe's!

LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Berry Vanilla ($12.00 for 2 oz. LAVANILA, Amazon, Target): While the Berry Vanilla scent is no longer available, there are many scents from which to choose. This is a wonderful healthy deodorant formula that is effective, smells delicious and offers long-lasting protection. Available in a nice range of scents, their scrumptious smelling Healthy Deodorants offer odor protection all day long, and the healthy ingredients condition the skin. If you are seeking an antiperspirant, then be advised that this does not prevent sweating. This has been my favorite healthy deodorant for many years now, and I will use it as long as LAVANILA makes it. It applies to the skin effortlessly, without tugging, and it never leaves a residue or stain on the clothes. This is a cruelty-free brand and their deodorants are free of aluminum and parabens. It appears that they no longer make this particular scent, but their Pure Vanilla scent is actually my favorite– it is warm and creamy perfection, and I absolutely love it! Purchase Again? Without question!

Overall Assessment: I really love everything that I used up this month and would happily use all of these products again! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in July? Any serious holy grail discoveries or over-hyped duds to report?

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

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.