If you have normal to oily skin, and are seeking a very effective clay mask, then Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque should definitely be on your radar. This is a very effective clay mask that helps balance skin by removing excessive oils, it heals breakouts, helps unclog congested pores and leaves skin soft and smooth. Additionally, I have used it as a spot treatment on the occasional pimple, but generally apply it to my entire face. I have normal/combination skin (normal everywhere, but in my T-zone– where I have a bit more oil), and I neither find this mask drying, nor irritating.
According to Kiehl's,
Our Amazonian White Clay mask helps draw out impurities while smoothing and refining skin. This pore minimizing mask for oily skin and normal skin helps unclog pores and smooth skin texture.
Features:
• Refines and detoxifies skin to draw out dirt and toxins that can cause clogged pores
• Purifies skin to visibly minimize pores and reduce oil
• Helps refine and smooth skin
Directions: After cleansing, apply a thin layer to damp skin, avoiding the immediate eye area
Allow to dry for approximately ten minutes. When dry, gently remove mask using a warm, wet towel and pat dry.
Overall Assessment: This is a very nice clay mask, and definitely worth trying if you have normal to oily skin. If you happen to pass a Kiehl's counter, I would recommend checking to see whether they have a sample that you can take home to try.
I thought that I would revisit Kiehl's Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter because I have gone though so many bottles of the lotion and jars of the body butter over the years, and felt that it was worth further extolling its virtues. It is an utterly sublime and decadent whipped butter that is fast absorbing and remarkably moisturizing. The whipped texture is delectable, and it melts into warm, damp skin quite quickly leaving skin soft, smooth, supple and hydrated. While I also use it on dry skin, I really love using it after getting out of the bath or shower because the added slip created by damp skin makes it sink in that much quicker, and allows you to use less of the body butter. It has a really delicious scent that is warm, rich and creamy.
According to Kiehl's,
This luxurious whipped body butter with Shea Butter and Jojoba Butter absorbs quickly to nurture and moisturize skin. With rich hydration, this body moisturizer is also infused with Soy Milk and Honey.
Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:
Shea Butter: is the natural fat obtained from the fruit of the African Karate tree and is widely used in lotions and cleansing products. Within our formulas, Shea Butter is known to help defend dehydration, restore suppleness and improve the appearance of dry skin.
Jojoba Butter: Extracted from the seeds of the desert shrub, Simondsia Chinensis, Jojoba Butter is refined from the oil that has been traditionally used for skin care by both Mexicans and Native Americans. Within our formulas, it is known to nurture and soften skin.
Overall Assessment: This definitely is neither my first, nor my last jar of Kiehl's Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter. I have used it for well over a decade, and really love it.
The extent to which my hands have been chapped and dry this winter cannot be overstated. In fact, for some reason all of my skin has been unusually impacted by the very dry and cold weather– leaving my skin dry and chapped. One of my go-to picks this season is Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, and not only does it work wonders on my dry hands, but it is likewise incredible for dry feet.
This salve is incredibly rich and emollient, and it has the most delectable whipped texture. It is lightweight and it melts into the skin without leaving behind a greasy residue. It is very moisturizing and it leaves skin soft, smooth and supple. This cream has a light Eucalyptus aroma that is neither overpowering, nor long-lasting, and it does have a slight cooling and uplifting effect.
According to Kiehl's,
Care for dry hands with our heavy-duty moisturizing hand salve. This thick, rich formula provides all-day care for active and dry hands. Formulated with Avocado Oil, Eucalyptus Oil and Sesame Seed Oil, this hand moisturizer for dry skin leaves hands feeling soft, conditioned and cared for.
Features:
- Thick, rich formula soothes, conditions and moisturizes dry hands
- Draws and absorbs water from the air forming a “glove-like” protective barrier against moisture loss
- Helps protect and repair the appearance of severely dry hands caused by manual labor, neglect, exposure to harsh elements and heavy industrial labor
Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:
Avocado Oil, derived from the fruit of a tropical American tree, is a rich, fatty-acid emollient known to be the most moisturizing of any fruit oil. It is also a natural source of amino acid proteins, Vitamins A, D, E and Potassium. Sesame Oil is a refined moisturizing oil that is commonly used as a carrier oil for skincare products. Within our formulas, it is known to absorb easily and soften skin. Eucalyptus Oil is derived from the leaf of Eucalyptus, a tree native to Australia and cultivated worldwide. Known for its purifying properties, Eucalyptus Oil has been used extensively for centuries. Within our formula, it provides a clean and refreshing aroma.
Overall Assessment: I only wish that I had discovered this hand salve years ago, and I will definitely purchase another tube as soon as I finish this one. If you have dry hands or feet, I highly recommend this fantastic hand salve. A+
*In-store offer differs; ends 08/16/17. See sales associate for store details. ONLINE: To receive your gift, enter the promo Code FALLNM in the promotion code box in your shopping bag during checkout and choose your gift: Kiehl's Since 1851 Mask, or Kendra Scott Hoop or Drop Earrings. Gift will be added at Checkout if available and shipped at the time of your order; one gift per order, per customer, while supplies last. Qualifying items will be designated on the site with colored type on product pages. The value of your select regular-price women's or men's apparel, accessories, shoes, handbags, or jewelry order must total $350 before shipping and tax. Does not apply to previous purchases. International orders do not qualify (Affiliate Links).
If you are a big fan of Kiehl's, as am I, then you probably won't want to miss out on their Friends and Family 20% Off your entire online purchase over $125.00. Sale Ends 5/22/17. Use Code: FRIENDS
Press Samples, Purchased by Me and Free Samples (Affiliate Links)
I used up so few products in the month of June that I consolidated June and July into a single Empties post. Sometimes when I am testing lots of different products, I find it difficult to finish up much of anything. I thought that I would have finished up more than 5 full size products, but at least I managed to finish up a fair number of samples.
1) Caress Fine Fragrance Love Forever Body Wash (reviewed here): Caress makes such great body products, and I really like this body wash a lot! Lovely lather, great scent, and it leaves my skin soft and moisturized. Definitely worth trying!
2) Trader Joe's Moisturizing Cream Shave in Honey Mango is a staple in our household, and my husband and I both use it! I buy them 3-4 at a time. This a creamy dreamy moisturizing shave cream that leaves skin soft and supple, and it smells absolutely delicious! I highly recommend it, and it's also so affordable!
3) Kiss My Face Active Life in Cucumber Green Tea is another staple for me. I always have this on hand, and will continue to buy it over and over again. It is so gentle on sensitive skin, and it isn't filled with unhealthy chemicals.
5) Shannon's Soaps Shaving Soap in Bergamot Mint (reviewed here): I absolutely love Shannon's Soaps– everything that they make is so wonderful. Their handcrafted soaps are so fantastic, and they work well for shaving as well. That said, their Shaving Soap is one of the best shaving products that I have ever used. The creamy lather is so moisturizing and emollient, and lends itself to the perfect close shave. It's great for men, but I use it on my legs and underarms and just love it!
6) Miller Harris Citron Citron Shower Gel: This was a lovely smelling citrus scented shower gel that did a great job cleaning my skin and leaving it soft.
8) Essenza Luxury Hand Soap in French Lavender (featured here): This is an absolutely delectable smelling lavender hand soap. I used it down to the last drop, and thoroughly enjoyed every last bit!
9) L'Occitane Lait Corporel Body Lotion: I love L'Occitane lotions, and was happy with this little sample bottle. I'm not sure if this particular lotion is still being offered, but they have so many other fantastic lotions to choose from.
10) Herbal Essences Body Wash in Body Burst (featured here): The invigorating citrus scent was super refreshing for early morning showers. I'm not sure if I will purchase a full size bottle, but I did like the sample.
11) Moroccanoil Body Buff is a deliciously orange scented scrub that looks and feels a bit like orange marmalade! It leaves skin soft, beautifully exfoliated, and hydrated!
12) RADICAL Skincare Youth Infusion Serum is a light weight hydrating serum that lifts and plumps skin, and reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles. I want a full size bottle!
13) Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate: I really like the way this made my skin feel, but the sample wasn't large enough for me to see any real effects, or to form a meaningful opinion.
14) TATCHA Radiant Deep Brightening Serumis a beautiful deeply moisturizing serum that leaves skin with an amazing luminosity and radiance. It makes skin look and feel amazing! I love to use it in conjunction with TATCHA Gold Camellia Beauty Oil (reviewed here).
15) Assorted sample packets and unmarked sample bottles: I actually find sample packets fairly useless because there is never enough product to be able to see whether it will work well for your skin. I often take them when I travel, but since they can't be resealed they are often more trouble than they are worth. I wish manufacturers would abandon these in favor of little tubes with lids.
What did you finish up, give away, throw out or return in June and July?
Press Samples, Purchased by Me and Free Samples (Affiliate Links)
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Unveils Limited Edition Label Art Series with Elizabeth Olsen & Maggie Q.
In honor of Earth Day, Kiehl’s Since 1851, the venerable New York-based purveyor of fine quality skin and hair care is proud to donate $50,000 to Recycle Across America™ (RAA), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to delivering society-wide solutions that eliminate public confusion, stimulate the environmental economy and expedite progress. www.recycleacrossamerica.org. These funds will be used to create 65,000 standardized recycling labels to 650 K-12 schools in the United States.
The donated funds will be raised from Kiehl’s Limited Edition Label Art series, featuring art by this year’s Friends of Kiehl’s, Elizabeth Olsen and Maggie Q. 100% of net profits, up to $50,000, from this, Kiehl’s seventh Earth Day campaign, will benefit Recycle Across America™. To date, Kiehl’s has raised $250,000 for RAA, supplying recycling labels to the following school districts: San Diego, Houston, Scottsdale, Culver City, and an additional 2,500 independent schools throughout the U.S.
“We started working with Recycle Across America in 2012 and have continued with them since. Their mission to introduce solutions that make recycling more simple, comprehensive and effective in the United States is perfectly aligned with our Recycle & Be Rewarded program. Since 2009, Kiehl’s has collected 2,500,000 empty Kiehl’s bottles from our shoppers and recycled them on their behalf, while also rewarding them with free products. It’s proven that by simplifying the process, we can truly create change. We hope to reach over 3,000,000 this year!” said Chris Salgardo, President, Kiehl’s USA.
Both designs were created in collaboration with artist/sculptor Fernando Mastrangelo, of AMMA Studio in Brooklyn, who is known for his work with everyday materials (salt, coffee, sand & silica). To support the launch, celebrity photographer Christopher Makos will capture each personality in his unique segmented-portrait style.
Staying true to Kiehl’s mission of supporting initiatives to preserve and protect the environment, two “Friends of Kiehl’s” have created the Limited Edition labels for Kiehl’s iconic Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado, made with Avocado Oil, Vitamins A & E, Shea Butter, Sodium PCA, and Beta-Carotene.
Responding to customer requests and needs, Kiehl's Since 1851 proudly introduces Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. This thick, creamy preparation helps keep the delicate skin around the eye area well hydrated.
The fatty acids naturally found in Avocado Oil are superbly rich and act as effective moisturizers. Additionally, they provide a natural and gentle source of Vitamin A. Contains a high level of Shea Butter, known as a skin conditioning agent.
There is a unique two-part structure of the cream for dual hydration. Upon immediate application, the cream feels buttery to the skin. Gently blending the preparation on the skin will burst a barrier so that water is then released for maximum moisturization. This cream feels soothing to the skin and offers a most refreshing sensation. The texture also allows the cream to hold its place in the delicate under-eye area so it absorbs well and will not migrate into the eyes.
This colorant and fragrance-free treatment has been Ophthalmologist tested to be safe and gentle for use around the eye area. Additionally, this eye cream can be worn day or night. It also performs well under eye makeup.
Key Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Vitamins A & E, Shea Butter, Sodium PCA, and Beta-Carotene.
RECYCLE & BE REWARDED!
How it works:
1.Patrons will receive a Recycle and Be Rewarded! card in any Kiehl’s free-standing store, and will be encouraged to be eco-conscious and return empty Kiehl’s bottles and tubes to any Kiehl’s store.
2.The Recycle and Be Rewarded! card will be stamped in-store, each time a Kiehl’s empty is returned for recycling.
3.Upon returning the 10th empty and receiving the 10th stamp, each Kiehl’s patron may choose an item from the Official Kiehl’s Travel Collection.
4.After the Recycle and Be Rewarded! card has been filled, each patron will receive a fresh card for ongoing recycling.
We invite all Kiehl’s patrons to participate in this program, as well as do what they can to recycle and live an eco-conscious lifestyle. For locations of Kiehl’s free-standing stores, please visit the Kiehl's Store Locator.
About Kiehl’s Since 1851: Kiehl’s was founded as an old-world apothecary in New York’s East Village neighborhood. Its unique, extensive background represents a blend of cosmetic, pharmaceutical, herbal, and medicinal knowledge developed and advanced through the generations. In addition to Kiehl's freestanding stores nationwide, Kiehl's products are available at Kiehls.com, by mail order at 1-800-KIEHLS-2 as well as through select specialty retailers worldwide.
About Recycle: Recycle and Be Rewarded! is a program in which patrons of Kiehl’s free-standing stores may return their empty Kiehl’s bottles, tubes and jars for recycling, in exchange for product. This program is now available in Kiehl’s free-standing stores nationwide. Since 2009, Kiehl’s has recycled over 2,500,000 bottles!
Across America: Recycle Across America® (RAA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which has developed the first ever society-wide standardized labeling system for recycling bins to help eliminate the public confusion surrounding recycling. The standardized labels are being used by some of the most notable companies in the world and are resulting in more than 50% increases in recyclables being collected -- with significantly less trash being thrown in the recycling bins. As a result, the economics of processing recyclables becomes more viable and stable, thereby allowing more companies to commit to using recycled materials in their manufacturing. For this reason, RAA and the standardized labels have been identified as a world-changing solution by Ashoka Innovators for the Public, and have been referred to as "...one of the top environmental fixes taking root today," by the New York Times. For more information, visit: www.recycleacrossamerica.org
Kiehl's is a line that has many hidden treasures in their vast sea of products, and Eye Alert is among them. It isn't hidden because it is unknown, because it is a wildly popular product, but because it is largely marketed to men rather than to women. It is effective and affordable, and is something worthy of your consideration if you are prone to dark circles and/or puffiness. One of my closest friends has been using it for quite some time now, and he implored me to try it-- so I did! I have to say that it is every bit as fantastic as I was told!
The ultimate solution for eye-area fatigue after a long flight or a long night, this formula is made with cooling cucumber and alfalfa extracts to energize and hydrate the thinner skin of the eye area. Its potent blend of vitamin E and caffeine fights fatigue as it helps combat dark circles and puffiness. With regular use, skin appears strengthened and the look of fine dehydration lines is reduced.
Gently pat eye treatment around and under eye area morning and night, or as needed.
Eye Alert feels wonderful on the delicate eye area, and provides enough hydration for me, but if you have a very dry under eye area-- then you may benefit from adding a richer eye cream on top once this sinks in. I have definitely noticed a reduction in my dark circles, and while I don't have chronic under eye puffiness-- it does periodically occur if I don't get enough sleep. I have found that their claims have merit-- Eye Alert really is quite effective in its effort to combat dark circles and puffiness. Why then is this product primarily marketed to men rather than women? I couldn't tell you! Perhaps the presumption is that we as women tend to prefer richer eye creams packed with anti-aging antioxidants, but this is an unassuming hardworking product that effectively addresses targeted concerns shared by both men and women. I really like it a great deal, and think that it is definitely worth trying if you ever have dark circles or puffiness. It is a no-fuss formula that is easy to use, and it has no detectable fragrance. Furthermore, it has not bothered my sensitive eyes in any way.
Caffeine: "An odorless, slightly bitter alkaloid, Caffeine has been shown to help reduce the appearance of puffiness when used in skincare products."
Cucumber Fruit Extract: "has long been known for its beneficial uses to the skin. (Cleopatra used cucumber juice to maintain her skin.) It is known to cool and refresh the skin, and has been shown to be moisture-binding, moisture-regulating and softening properties. It is used as a treatment for oily skin and for tired and stressed skin, and as skin refresher in sun preparations."
Not tested on animals.
Overall assessment: Fabulously effective and infinitely affordable! A great solution for treating dark circles and puffiness, but it also delivers the perfect dose of hydration.
When wefadetogray said, "Continuing with the theme of beauty products fetishism, I was wondering if you can take some pictures of your whole face oils collection for our voyeurism. I am going to enjoy them vicariously"- it was clearly incumbent upon me to deliver.
Those of us, as you all know, who are fanatical about face oils find it difficult to have just one or two. I realize that I have passed in number anything even remotely reasonable, but you may rest assured that I really do use all of them. I generally choose based upon need and desire, but sometimes I simply grab the one that is the easiest to get to. You would think given the number of face oils in my possession that I would have no desire to add more to my collection, and while a reasonable assumption for a reasonable person-- it simply isn't true for me. I am on the continual hunt to see what new blends hit the market, and frankly try as many as I can so that I can help you weed through the vast number of beauty oils on the market today.
All Oils Shown (I included a few multipurpose oils that I use on my face periodically, and a lip oil):
Face:
African Botanics Pure Marula Oil (review forthcoming)
African Botanics Neroli Infused Marula Oil
Aftelier Perfumes Jasmine Face Elixir with Geranium and Ylang Ylang
Aftelier Perfumes Rose Face Elixir with Sandalwood and Frankincense
Aftelier Perfumes Lavender Face Elixir with Clary Sage and Cistus
Aftelier Perfumes Wild Orange Face Elixir with Geranium and Ylang Ylang
Aftelier Perfumes Ylang Face Elixir (review forthcoming)
Aroma M Camellia Face Oil
Bare Love Face-Luxury Skin Fuel Night-Time Recovery Treatment
By Terry Huile de Rose (review forthcoming)
Colbert MD. Illumino Face Oil (review forthcoming)
Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate
Osmia Organics Facial Calibration Serum
Osmia Organics Facial Restoration Serum
Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Face Oil
Sponge Ladi Avokanto
The Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Face Firming Serum
The Organic Pharmacy Virgin Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Serum
Be sure to click on the photos for a close up view. Most of these oils are already listed and reviewed in my dedicated "Luxury Oils" tab at the top of the website (or click here).
This was the month of haircare products and sample packets, to say the least. I travelled a lot in July and tried to use plenty of samples- despite the fact that I also carried some full size and deluxe sized samples on my various trips. I figured that I had a huge pile of samples and this would be a great way to use them up and travel lighter.
Haircare Products: What a victorious use of full size hair care products for me- I actually surprised myself in my ability to finish up a few things before opening up new bottles.
I loved the DermOrganic Leave in Spray Therapy (reviewed here) because it leaves my hair soft, shiny and manageable. It is definitely on my repurchase list.
Surya Organics is an amazing line, and I used every last drop of their Amazonia Preciosa Shampoo (reviewed here) and their Revitalizing Hair Mask (reviewed here). I have been thoroughly impressed by their products and will definitely continue to use them. Their haircare products are natural, healthy, effective, and so pleasant to use. Their aromas delight the senses.
Ouidad Botanical Boost Moisture Infusing & Refreshing Spray is a fantastic detangler that adds moisture and revives curls. I really love this spray, and have in general found Ouidad to be fantastic on my naturally curly hair.
Skincare & Body Care Products: Can you believe how many samples that I used in July?! There weren't any major misses in the pile, and I do have a few of these things in their full sized counterparts, but I'm also not motivated to run out and buy most of what I tried either. At this point I am only compelled to buy The Organic Pharmacy Flower Petal Deep Cleanser & Mask (reviewed here. A couple of those empty pots were samples of this amazingly effective miracle mask) because I am completely obsessed with it.
The Organic Pharmacy Collagen Boost Mask (Detailed review forthcoming. Affiliate link): This stuff is so great it earned a separate picture! This is my new love and discovery from a line that has established pride of place in my heart. Everything that I have tried from them is astonishingly effective, free of unhealthy ingredients, and glorious to use. This pile is about 16 or 17 sample packets- I used up several of them, but placed the remainder in an airtight pump bottle to keep it fresh longer. I am definitely going to purchase a bottle of this and their amazing Flower Petal Deep Cleanser & Mask very very soon! The Organic Pharmacy is undoubtedly one of the best skincare lines that I have tried in many many years.
According to The Organic Pharmacy, More an instant boost than a mask, this Aloe and Seaweed gel is packed full of potent antioxidants to instantly lift, tighten and brighten the complexion Use at least twice a week or daily during summer months.ã Super potencies of Alpha Lipoic Acid, DMAE and CoQ10 with anti-ageing herbs of Horsetail, Ginseng and Propolis are just some of the ingredients in this amazing gel.
I have been using this mask on a daily basis since it is the summer, and it really does lift, tighten and brighten! I am buying a bottle very soon. The Organic Pharmacy is quickly becoming my favorite skincare company!
All in all I am quite pleased with my pile of empties this month! What did you use up, toss, or give away this month?
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of my very favorite events, and one in which I tend to purchase a lot. Here are some of my favorite picks!! (Affiliate links).
YOU MUST BE A NORDSTROM CARDHOLDER TO GET EARLY ACCESS!
Early Access for cardholders began July 10, 2013
Double Points July 10-18 on your Nordstrom Card
Clarisonic 'Mia 2- Orchid' Sonic Skin Cleansing System (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($199.00 Value) $149.00
Kiehl's Since 1851 Jumbo Creme de Corps with Pump (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($107 Value) 33.8 oz. bottle and 2.5 oz. travel bottle. $75.00
