Aroma M Camellia Prickly Pear Face Oil: A Delectable Game Changing Must-Have Eco-Luxe Oil

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

I have coveted Maria McElroy, the founder of Aroma M, creations for years, and there is a reason that  her handcrafted perfumes, face oils and all of her artisan creations are internationally celebrated. Each handcrafted treasure is made, by Maria herself, in small batches that she meticulously scrutinizes. As a master atelier perfumer, with the truly visionary ability to mix and create otherworldly fragrances, Maria applies this same refined sensibility and profound knowledge of her ingredients to blend among the finest face oils conceived. 

When the Makeup Wars team sought to select our favorite product that we are truly loving this winter, I knew that I needed to introduce everyone to Maria's most recent face oil, Aroma M Camellia Prickly Pear Face Oil.

Aroma M Camellia Prickly Pear Face Oil is a study in refined ingredients, of the highest quality imaginable, that were selected to boast unsurpassed efficacy while maintaining an ultra-luxe feather-weight consistency that immediately melts into the skin.

Aroma M Camellia Prickly Pear Face Oil is made from a fusion of Camellia Oil, Prickly Seed Oil, Golden Jojoba Oil, Apricot Kernel, Evening Primrose, Virgin Argan, and Vitamin E. Moroccan Beldi Rose Essential Oil, Egyptian Rose Essential Oil and Frankincense Essential Oil, and this ultra-luxe oil has the intoxicating aroma of the most elegant rose that lifts the spirits while each of the carefully selected ingredients work their magic on the skin.

The Camellia Oil deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin. Prickly Pear Seed Oil, which is a miraculous antioxidant-rich healer, is packed Omega 6 and 9, and is rich in amino acids. Its unique properties stimulate collagen production and increase skin cell turnover, and therefore it softens the appearance of fine lines, reveals fresh and dewy skin, while the Vitamin K promotes the skin's elasticity and helps lighten the appearance of dark circles. Maria specifically selected to include Rice Bran Oil, which is rich in fatty acids and Vitamin E, because it nourishes the skin by deeply penetrating its layers, and it plumps and hydrates, aids in moisture retention, and its impressive anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated skin. Healing Golden Jojoba Oil heals damaged, irritated skin and helps retain moisture. Apricot Kernal Oil, which is rich in Vitamins A and E,  deeply penetrates skin and  hydrates even the driest skin. Evening Primrose Oil soothes irritated skin, calms redness, reduces inflammation, and helps to heal pimples while plumping the appearance of fine lines. Virgin Argan Oil, which is an antioxidant-rich powerhouse, is filled with fatty acids, polyphenoles and caratenoids, and together they effectively soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while healing irritation, abrasions, redness and dry flaky skin. Moroccan Beldi Rose Essential Oil, which has a rich and sweet aroma, soothes and heals skin. Eqyptian Rose Essential Oil, which is antioxidant-rich, heals breakouts, reduces inflammation, irritation and redness and hydrates the skin. Frankincense Essential Oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that heal breakouts, balances oil production and reduces the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, it accelerates skin cell turn-over and hydrates the skin.

As previously noted, this ultra-luxe feather-weight facial oil immediately melts into the skin leaving behind no oily residue. That it boasts an antioxidant-rich anti-inflammatory formula means that this potent healer soothes and calms irritated skin, and is therefore a wonderful post-peel, post-treatment beauty oil. It is also a wonderful choice for sensitive skin prone to redness and irritation, or breakouts. Furthermore, it is one of the most nourishing and deeply hydrating oils that I have tried. It leaves skin baby soft, silky smooth, supple, hydrated, lifted, more even in tone, remarkably luminous., and it  also softens the appearance of fine lines. Formulated for all skin types, this delectable elixir is such a joy to use because it enraptures the senses with its luxurious texture, its otherworldly aroma and its uncompromising efficacy. These combined attributes make this a  remarkable achievement for a single face oil, and it is unquestionably among the finest luxury face oils that I have ever used.

According to Aroma M,

This luxurious fragrant rose Facial Oil treatment combines the namesake of aroma M
Beauty, Camellia Oil and the potent elixir, Prickly Pear Seed Oil. We discovered this
powerful oil on a stay in Marrakech and were hooked after a few days of use. In addition
to these two power packed oils we have added these emollient organic oils: Golden
Jojoba, Apricot Kernel, Evening Primrose, Virgin Argan, and Vitamin E. Camellia/
Prickly Pear Face Oil is charged with the heady synergy of Moroccan Beldi Rose
Essential Oil, Egyptian Rose Essential Oil and Frankincense Essential Oil. This is the
ideal liquid moisturizer for hydrating skin to create a luminous complexion. This elixir
effortlessly melts into complexions that are normal, oily, or dry without leaving any
residue, and adds the experience of uplifting, fully natural fragrance to soothe the mind
and heart. Maria McElroy of Aroma M Beauty has combined her experience in the
beauty rituals of the Japanese Gion Geisha and Western aromatherapy traditions to create
a material for a beneficial and beautiful beauty ritual that combines the best of both
traditions.

About Maria McElroy, the founder of Aroma M:

American born artist Maria McElroy synthesized her love of blending colors and textures with her passion for scent. After receiving an MFA in painting from the San Francisco Art Institute in '86, Maria continued her studies in Australia and became a Certified Aromatherapist with Queensland Institute of Natural Science.

'Blending fragrances in a bottle is like mixing colors on a palate,' says Maria. 'The scent becomes pigment, the body becomes the canvas. The nose responds to scent like the eye to color.'

Seven years in Japan, studying Kodo, the ancient art of fragrance, Ikebana, Japanese flower arrangement Koto, Japanese harp, Shiatsu massage and Zen Buddhism solidified Maria's appreciation for Japanese culture and aesthetics. Romance also flourished back in New York where Maria met her Japanese born husband. Maria's seven-year journey, rich in Japanese history, romance and mystery, became the genesis of aroma M and the inspiration for the signature Geisha fragrance line. Aroma M is based in New York but is now known worldwide.

Ingredients and Their Attributes:

Camellia Oil: Camellia oil has been a Japanese beauty secret for centuries, and considered to be so
beneficial and valuable that has become a symbol of wealth, virtue and happiness. It is
made from cold pressed Japanese camellia (Tsubaki) buds, which is a member of the tea
family. It is very lightweight and absorbs well. Camellia oil is lighter than oils such as
shea butter and jojoba, and is hypoallergenic and will not clog skin pores. It is a superb
daily moisturizer and emollient, protecting skin from chafing and drying out, and
replenishes vital nutrients, as it offers a variety of healing, nourishing and stimulating
properties to purify and protect the skin. It restores skin's pH balance and shields skin
from penetration of environmental pollutants. It acts as a natural sun block by forming a
barrier against harmful UV rays. For men, Camellia oil is an excellent skin conditioner
after shaving. Shaving is an exfoliate and may leave skin dry and sensitive. With regular
application, the skin will be moisturized and nourished. Its soothing qualities aid in
preventing irritations and shaving burns.

Prickly Pear Seed Oil: Known as the “Miracle Plant” is able to survive with very little water and still produce healthy fruit. The Prickly Pear Cactus contains small black seeds, from which the oil is
extracted. It is extremely high in essential fatty acids, Omega 6 and 9, and the natural
antioxidant vitamin E. It is also rich in amino acids, which stimulate collagen production
to promote faster cell turnover. It also contains vitamin k, which brightens under-eye dark
circles and also promotes your skin’s elasticity. It’s great for all skin types, especially for
mature skin. Our Cactus Seeds oil is extracted during a very time-consuming and
laborious procedure taking around 36 hours, manually handled by Moroccan women at a
cooperative. 8 tones of cactus pears are needed to production.

Rice Bran Oil: Rice bran oil is rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids and is able to deeply penetrate into the skin’s layers, nourishing from within, making your skin very soft and velvety. It
improves skin’s elasticity, making it appear more youthful and plump and hydrates the
skin and helps it to retain moisture, making the skin smooth. It has anti-inflammatory
properties that can help sooth and calm down irritated skin. It protects the skin from
external aggressions such as wind, cold and polluted city environments, and can protect
the skin from harmful sun damage, working as a natural sun block.

Golden Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil naturally heals skin damage with its beneficial stimulating and purifying properties. It is wonderfully effective in sustaining the skin’s natural moisture as needed
to prevent dryness. The extract of the seeds mimics the natural oil produced by
sebaceous glands in the skin and is absorbs quickly to impart a velvety finish.

Apricot Kernel Oil: Sought out for its high vitamin E content and skin softening properties, apricot kernel oil is known for its ability to penetrate the skin without leaving an oily feel. Organic apricot
kernel oil contains natural vitamins A and E, which soothe the skin and slow signs of
aging. It helps rehydrate dry skin.

Evening Primrose Oil: Evening Primrose Oil rejuvenates tired and aging skin, and is especially gently refreshing for tired skin around the eyes. It will soothe and help to remove redness and minor
blemishes. It helps dry skin feel more supple and smooth, and plumps up the skin.

Virgin Argan Oil: Argan oil is a complex mixture of chemical compounds, with fatty acids, polyphenoles, antioxidants, carotenoids and other acids. It protects the skin against wrinkles and
premature aging, and helps reduce the appearance of crow’s feet. Protein rich Argan oil is
excellent for increasing the elasticity of skin. It strengthens skin’s protein bonding
structures, which work to tighten the skin and make it look fresh. It will reduce skin
irritation and oversensitivity, and quickly heals scratches on the skin. Argan oil is equally
good for both dry and oily skin, because it regulates and normalizes the secretion of
sebum and keeps it to a manageable level.

Moroccan Beldi Rose Essential Oil: Known as the Queen of Flower Oils, Moroccan Rose oil is one of the world's most expensive and revered essential oils. We discovered this fragrant Beldi Moroccan Rose oil on our adventure in Tangier. Stunning and exotic, it combines healing and soothing
properties. This heady sweet and floral fragrance is one to make you swoon.

Egyptian Rose Essential Oil: Extremely rich, deep, warm, honeyed true velvety rose aroma with a hint of spice. A hydrating antioxidant that refines skin, treats acne, reduces redness and inflammation.
Maximizes the benefits of all ingredients by allowing deeper penetration.

Frankincense Essential Oil: Frankincense is a powerfully beneficial and fragrant skin rejuvenator. It is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory and can balance oily or dry skin. It improves skin's tone and texture and speeds healing and is helpful with acne, and blemishes. It can reduce the appearance
of scars and age spots. Because it encourages new skin cell growth it is excellent for
fighting the signs of aging.

Overall Assessment: Aroma M Camellia Prickly Pear Face Oil is a truly exceptional achievement  that everyone with a penchant for ultra-luxe face oils really needs to try. It is an undeniable game-changer, and it earns an unmitigated A+.

Please be sure to click on the Makeup Wars! team member badges to see their must-have products!

$95.00 for 1.3 oz/40ml. from Aroma M (Unaffiliated Links)
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2018 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

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African Botanics Cloudburst Micro-Emulsion Balancing Moisturizer | Review #AfricanBotanics

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African Botanics Cloudburst Micro-Emulsion Balancing Moisturizer is an ultra effective radiance-boosting anti-aging, antioxidant-rich moisturizer, with the texture and weight of a fast absorbing serum, that is formulated to deeply hydrate, balance, calm, heal, detoxify, plump, firm and nourish the skin. It is particularly effective to treat and heal skin that is lackluster, oily, congested, acne-prone, blemished, sensitive, unbalanced and inflamed. The potent humectants bind moisture to the skin, and the advanced water-in-oil emulsion technology, employed by African Botanics, ensures that this emulsion immediately melts into the skin offering deep hydration and calming and soothing properties to heal inflammation. Furthermore, fruit enzymes gently exfoliate dead skin cells helping to detoxify the skin allowing it to breathe unencumbered by dead skin cells that trap in toxins beneath the dead skin.

It can be used all over the face, neck and décolleté, or as a spot treatment on specific areas such as an the t-zone, areas of impacted by inflammation, blemishes, acne or sensitivity. It has a light earthy aroma that fades soon after it is absorbed by the skin.

Directions: Apply daily to face, neck and décolletage after Rose Treatment Essence and/or any treatment serum. Add additional layers to plump and prime the skin for makeup.

According to African Botanics,

Cloudburst Micro-Emulsion is the next generation of anti-aging, moisture-replenishing, hybrid moisturizers. Featuring a fast acting micro-fine and opulent formula that is powered by advanced anti-wrinkle skincare technologies, fruit enzymes, minerals, uniquely extracted botanical humectants and a high concentration of antioxidants to help balance, detoxify, firm, plump, improve skin health and retain moisture levels in the dermis while always enabling it to breathe. Advanced water-in-oil emulsion technology sinks instantly, plumping, calming and hydrating the skin.

This radiance-boosting formula incorporates molecular science, powerful antioxidants and resilient wild-crafted botanicals which address the first signs of aging, skin dehydration, dullness, sagging, stress and fatigue. Contains the latest in Marine glycobiology derived from very resilient Laminaria Algae. Rich in biologically active oligosacharides, these truly unique molecules significantly reduce the depth of wrinkles while protecting and repairing skin cells. Plumps with Copper and Plant Peptides, deeply penetrates skin for intense and continuous moisture with Sodium Hyaluronate molecules. Regulates sebum production, prevents breakouts and skin oxidation with Copper, Magnesium and Zinc while oxygenating cells. Promotes circulation, soothes and reduces redness and irritations with anti-inflammatory botanicals derived from African Immortelle, Resurrection Plant, Green Rooibos Tea, Rosa Centifolia, Yarrow and Cape Chamomile.

Benefits:
• Improves skin’s radiance and reinforces the cell detoxification process with Candida Saitoana Extract while increasing firmness and elasticity with Kigelia Africana.

• Plumps with Copper, Plant Peptides and deeply penetrates skin for intense and continuous moisture with Sodium Hyaluronate molecules.

• Prevents damage caused by free radicals and protects against premature aging while encouraging collagen synthesis with Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Niacinamide, Resveratrol and antioxidant-rich Green Coffee.

• Regulates sebum production, prevents breakouts and skin oxidation with Copper, Magnesium and Zinc while oxygenating cells.

• Brightens, detoxifies and illuminates the skin with tropical fruit enzymes reducing the appearance of age spots and uneven skin tone.

• Promotes circulation, soothes and reduces redness and irritations with anti-inflammatory botanical extracts derived from African Immortelle, Resurrection Plant, Green Rooibos Tea, Rosa Centifolia, Yarrow and Cape Chamomile.

Scientific and Select Ingredient Attributes:

This radiance-boosting formula incorporates molecular science, powerful antioxidants and resilient wild-crafted botanicals which address the first signs of aging, skin dehydration, dullness, sagging, stress and fatigue.

Employing the ancient botanical knowledge of Southern African tribes, we harnessed and captured the potent synergy of anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties of African Bush and Desert plants that help regenerate and replenish the skin.

Rich in Polyphenols, Omegas 3, 6, 7 & 9, Plant Ceramides, Lipids and Amino Acids that help reinforce skin’s natural restorative abilities.

Contains the latest in Marine glycobiology derived from very resilient Laminaria Algae.* Rich in biologically active oligosacharides, these truly unique molecules significantly reduce the depth of wrinkles while protecting and repairing skin cells.

*The unique ability of Laminaria Algae molecules is to protect and repair cells. Living in the Iroise Sea, this Algae have developed a defense system enabling it to resist the extreme conditions such as storms, ocean currents and very high tides. The fucoidan structure in the cell walls of the Laminaria plays a protective and restorative role in rebuilding the tissues after a storm.

In-Vitro testing demonstrated that Laminaria Algae stimulates Type 1 Collagen synthesis and fibroblast proliferation. The fucoidans blocking the enzymes responsible for the deterioration of the extracellular matrix as well as the pro-inflammatory cytokines which damage the collagen.

Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Hydrolyzed Rice Protein (Di- and tripeptides), Yeast Extract, Hydrolyzed F- Fucoidan (Algae) Extract, Myrothamus Flabellifolius (Resurrection)** Plant, Hydrolyzed Candida Saitoana Extract, Kigelia Africana Fruit Extract**, Panicum Miliaceum (Millet) Seed Extract, Tannic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Carbomer, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Hamamelis Virginia (Witch Hazel), Aspalathus Linearis (Green Rooibos)* Tea, D-alpha Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola), * Zinc Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula)** Seed Oil, Resveratrol Ferment Extract, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Ginko Biloba Extract, Magnesium Sulfate, Green Coffee, Caffein, Allantoin, Carica (Papaya) Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Eriocephalus Punctulatus (Cape Chamomile)**, Schinziophyton Rautanenii (Mongongo)** Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab)** Seed Oil, Citrillus Lanatus (Kalahari melon)** Seed Oil, Helichrysum Angustifolium (Everlasting/Immortelle)* Oil, Rosa Centifolia (Rose) Flower Oil, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vit C), Archillea Millefolium (Yarrow)*, Aloe Ferox* Leaf Extract, Aminomethyl Propanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol. *Organic, **Wild-Harvested Ingredients. Contains responsibly sourced and Fair Trade ingredients. Never tested on animals.Formulated without silicones, mineral oils, parabens, allergens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, PEGs and SLSs.

Overall Assessment: Yet another masterpiece from African Botanics. If you have skin that is lackluster, oily, congested, acne-prone, blemished, sensitive, unbalanced or inflamed, or any combination thereof– then African Botanics Cloudburst Micro-Emulsion Balancing Moisturizer is a must-have game-changer. This is a perfect addition to my skincare routine, and given that I have normal to combination skin, that can at times be sensitive, I have had many occasions to use this moisturizer, and its efficacy is very impressive. A+

$260.00 for 1.7 oz./ 50ml. from African Botanics, Credo Beauty, Net-A-Porter and Cult Beauty (Affiliate Links),

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2017 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

REN Rose O12 Moisture Defence Oil: The Cure for Dry Winter Skin

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REN Rose O12 Moisture Defence Oil is such a glorious, rich beauty oil that this is actually the second bottle that I have purchased. It is a very luxurious and deeply moisturizing beauty oil that is comprised of 12 oils that were carefully selected to protect, hydrate and condition dry and dehydrated skin. It leaves skin utterly soft, silky smooth, luminous and it softens the appearance of fine lines. Furthermore, it calms and soothes irritated and inflamed skin, and therefore is a good oil choice after peels and exfoliation.

While I have decidedly normal to combination skin, I find that this beauty oil is perfect for my face during the colder months of the year, and it is perfect for my neck and décolleté all year long. It has an irresistibly beautiful rose aroma that is both elegant and intoxicatingly addictive and calming, but its fragrant bouquet fades soon after it sinks in. While it is a rich oil, it absorbs into the skin quickly and doesn't leave behind a greasy residue– unless, of course, you use too much. It is quite concentrated, and therefore a little goes quite a long way. If you apply it to warm, slightly damp freshly washed skin, then a few  drops is all that you need for your face, neck and décolleté.

According to REN,

This concentrated cocktail of 12 oils locks in moisture to plump the skin, helps restore natural radiance, softness, and elasticity, and protects against free radicals to combat visible signs of premature aging. It's enriched with an array of ingredients that work together to create skin that's hydrated and smooth. Ceramides from carthame oil, phospholipids from soybean, and essential fatty acids from seabuckthorn berry oil and rosehip seed oil help to repair skin. Octacosenoic acid from ximenia oil locks moisture into the skin to restore softness, elasticity, and optimum comfort. Tocotrienols from cranberry seed oil protect the skin against oxidative damage and premature aging.

Directions: Apply to freshly cleansed skin in the morning, before moisturizer.

Key Ingredients and their Attributes:
• Contains Essential fatty acids help to reduce skin inflammation.
• Cranberry seed oil protects the skin against free radicals.
• Jojoba, rice germ and macadamia oils improve the skin's barrier function against moisture loss.

Ingredients: Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Macademia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Ximenia Americana Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Cymbopogon Martini Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Oil, Myroxylon Pereirae (Balsam Peru) Oil, Citronellol, Geraniol, Eugenol, Linalool, Citral, Farnesol, Limonene, Benzyl Benzoate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Lipid, Oryzanol, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Safflower Glyceride/ Palm Oil Aminopropanediol Esters, Tocopherol. Free of Parabens, Sulfates and Phthalates.

Overall Assessment: This is such a lovely beauty oil, that I will definitely purchase yet another bottle once I finish this one.

$80.00 for 1.02 oz. from REN, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Space NK, Sephora, John Lewis and Walmart (£42.00) (Affiliate Links).
Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2017 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

TATCHA LUMINOUS Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate for Stunning, Glowing Skin | Review

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TATCHA is an absolutely amazing skincare line, and it captured my heart from the moment I began using their luxurious, beautifully edited collection.  It is one of the very few lines on the market that really invites one to really slow down and savor every step of their beauty routine. Their textures are sumptuous, their aromas are delectable and their formulas are perfection. Among their great strengths is their ability to create deeply penetrating, fast acting oils and serums that leave skin remarkably soft, supple, hydrated and with a pronounced luminosity.

TATCHA LUMINOUS Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate is a lightweight, and fast absorbing, nighttime serum that begins its life as a firm gel that immediately gives way to a liquid once introduced to the warmth of the skin. TATCHA LUMINOUS Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate, which is touted as "an ultra-concentrated form" of their iconic Luminous Dewy Skin Mist, is among a short list of miraculous nighttime serums that produces tangible results while you sleep. When you rest your skin regenerates new skin cells, sloughs off dead skin cells, and cycles oxygen and nutrients, and it is during this cycle that TATCHA LUMINOUS Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate works its magic. It profoundly hydrates the skin, visibly plumps fine lines and gives skin a luscious and dewy lit-from-within glow. Each time that I use this magical elixir, I awaken to find my skin soft, supple, ultra-hydrated, balanced, lifted and fine lines are noticeably plumped. Furthermore, the overall texture of my skin is perfected, and my skin boasts an unprecedented radiance– especially when used in conjunction with TATCHA GOLD Camellia Beauty Oil (Reviewed HERE). I have also used this during the day because it adds essential moisture and a dewy radiance. I have also mixed a tiny amount into my foundation for added moisture and luminosity. The all natural, light aroma is fresh, clean and utterly delectable, but it is subtle– and therefore should not bother people who are sensitive to scents.

I use the gold spoon to scoop out one rounded spoonful and massage it into my face, neck and décolleté in an upward motion, and it immediately melts into the skin, and does not leave behind a greasy residue. The results the following morning, even after a single use, are so pronounced that using it is rather addictive! This is unquestionably an A+ serum.

According to TATCHA, Luminous Overnight Memory Serum Concentrate is:

An ultra-concentrated form of our widely-loved Luminous Dewy Skin Mist, this hydrating, gel-like treatment visibly renews skin to a youthful glow in one night's use.

Ideal as an overnight recovery treatment, Okinawa Red Algae and 7 rich botanical extracts combine to restore hydration, refine texture and visibly plump fine lines. A light daytime touch adds an extra-lush glow.

For All skin types. Non-comedogenic. Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested.

Directions: Scoop one to two spoonfuls of serum concentrate with the gold spoon. The replenishing extracts are firm to the touch, but dissolve luxuriously into the skin. Massage onto face, neck, and décolletage in upward strokes. Use at night for replenished, dewy skin by morning.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Squalane (Olive Origin), Cyclopentasiloxane, Triethylhexanoin, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Origanum Majorana Leaf Extract, Zizyphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, Thymus Serpillum Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate (Licorice), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Algae Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Oil, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Sericin (Silk Extract), Inositol (Rice Extract), Glyceryl Stearatese, Polyglyceryl-2 Diisostearate, Ppg-5-ceteth-10 Phosphate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sorbitan Stearate, Trideceth-12, Ethylhexylglycerin, Peg-240/hdi Copolymer Bis-decyltetradeceth-20 Ether, Butylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Fragrance (Natural), Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol.

Formulated without: Parabens, mineral oils, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, urea, DEA, TEA or phthalates.

TATCHA Exclusive Gift with Purchase: Receive a complimentary tote bag with your purchase of $100.00+ Use Promo Code: TOTE16

Overall Assessment: Unmitigated nighttime serum perfection, end of story! A+

$110.00 for 50 ml / 1.7 fl.oz. from TATCHA, Barneys New York, Sephora and QVC (Affiliate Links).

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

African Botanics Marula Regenerating Body Hydro Serum: A Whole New Territory in Luxury Skincare | Review

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African Botanics is, without question, one of the very best luxury skincare lines on the market today. That Craig and Julia Noik founded it in 2012 speaks volumes about the exquisite quality their visionary line. African Botanics has carved out pride of place on every beauty editor's desk, and with some of the most prestigious international retailers. Everything that the Noik's create is wonderfully executed, and once you try this beautiful line you will remain a faithful devotee.

Their exacting standards prevent them from launching new products until they have reached a state of perfection seldom seen, and their newest products are absolute perfection.

I must preface this review by stating that African Botanics Marula Regenerating Body Hydro Serum is peerless. This groundbreaking product has no equivalent in the marketplace against which it can be compared. This is, in fact, a new breed of antioxidant-rich anti-aging body serums– a truly unprecedented creation of the very highest quality.

African Botanics Marula Regenerating Body Hydro Serum is a highly concentrated lightweight, fast absorbing and non-sticky gel textured serum that, "helps oxygenate, stimulate, tone, soothe and regenerate the skin leaving it fully replenished and protected with restored elasticity, firmness and radiance."

The unique and rich botanical complex is comprised of the essential oils of Cedar, Cypress, Lemon, Peppermint and Thyme that naturally stimulate and tone the skin. The microcirculation produces and creates a refreshing thermal cooling sensation that is uplifting, energizing, and utterly luxurious. Not only does this wondrous elixir create a pronounced sense of well-being, but the scent is a heavenly and indescribably fusion of the essential oils that invites deep inhalation. Furthermore, the tiny refined light-reflecting particles give the skin a subtle ethereal glow that is further enhanced by the essential oils.

African Botanics Marula Regenerating Body Hydro Serum was created to address the needs of skin that is dehydrated, stressed or sagging as a result of diminished elasticity. It is also a perfect product to use on UV exposed skin, and on achy bodies after strenuous workouts.

Directions: "Apply once or twice a day after shower/bath onto damp skin to the areas that need treating (upper arms, stomach, legs, thighs, bust and hips). Massage in with upward circular movements until completely absorbed. May be layered under other bodycare products. Ideal as a post-workout or as a cooling relief for swollen legs, feet and as an aftersun treatment."

After use, in addition to the lovely cooling effects, one immediately notes that skin is deeply hydrated and plumped, healthy and luminous. It soothes and calms irritated skin, reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation (sun spots) and protects and rejuvenates skin thanks to the antioxidant-rich anti-aging formula. Furthermore, it retexturizes and smooths cellulite because of the caffeine in conjunction with the carefully selected botanicals– all of which mitigate the orange-peel appearance associated with cellulite. Skin is left, soft, supple, hydrated, even in tone and texture, and utterly luminous.

Key Benefits & Results: Provides a tissue structuring effect, plumping, moisturizing and reinforcing the skin’s elasticity and tone.

TARGETS CELLULITE: "Caffeine works to help break down cellulite and combat the build-up of toxins while stabilizing fluid levels in the body. Buchu Plant, Nettle, Juniper Berry and Elder Blossom target the factors responsible for the orange-peel appearance and help encourage their elimination."

ANTIOXIDANTS: "Resurrection plant, Green Rooibos tea, Honeybush and Aloe Ferox extracts are rich in antioxidants and are known to protect and shield the skin against environmental stresses as well as support the rejuvenation and renewal of skin cells."

SOOTHES & REDUCES SUNSPOTS: "Active compounds in Aloe Ferox, Kigelia and Marula Oil soothe inflamed, dry, irritated skin, relieving itchiness. The combination of active elements in Kigelia (quinones, irridoids, coumarines and flavonoids) and in Green Rooibos Tea extract also reduce sun damage and sunspots. Hehapeptide-3 and Hyaluronic Acid continuously moisturize whilst strengthening the skin’s natural barrier."

Note the beauty and luminosity

 The texture is lightweight, luxurious and fast absorbing.

 A more beautiful and effective body serum, I know not.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Myrothamnus Flabellifolius (Resurrection) Plant Extract, Aloe Ferox (Bitter Aloe) Leaf Extract*, Hamamelis Virginia (Witch Hazel) Distillate Oil, Sambucus Nigra (Elder) Flower Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Sodium PCA, Menthol, Hexapeptide-3, Menta Piperta (Peppermint) Essential Oil, Caffeine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Barosma Betulina (Buchu) Leaf Oil, Citrus Limonium (Lemon) Essential Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil*, Cedrus Deodora (Cedarwood) Essential Oil, Juniperus Communis (Juniper Berry) Essential Oil, Cupressus Sempervirens (Cypress) Essential Oil, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Essential Oil, Camelia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract, Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) Oil*, Kigelia Africana Fruit Extract*, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) Tea Extract, Cyclopia Genistoides (Honeybush) Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, May Contain ± [CI 77019, CI 77891]. *Organic and Wild-Harvested Ingredients. Never tested on animals.

Overall Assessment: African Botanics is far more than a skincare line, it might more aptly be described as a luxury wellness line. This visionary, family-owned, company creates healthy skincare products that utilize highly effective indigenous ingredients that are responsibly sourced from the Noik's native South Africa. The end result is a carefully curated ultra-luxe line that is healthy, profoundly effective, and a true joy to use. I cannot sufficiently underscore the extent to which African Botanics Marula Regenerating Body Hydro Serum is a brilliant example of what is possible when the Noik's carve out new territory in luxury skincare.

$85.00 for 5.07 oz./150 ml from African Botanics, Net-A-Porter and Cult Beauty £60.00 (Affiliate Links).

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

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