January 2025 Empties for the Face, Body, Hair & Home

 

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

It is hard to make sense of the fact that January 2025 has already come to a close! I was, rather surprisingly, able to finish up 12 full-size products in January, and I thoroughly enjoyed each one of them. Here are the products that I finished, and my thoughts about each of them:

Mrs. Meyer's Compassion Flower Hand Soap ($4.99 for 12.5 oz. and a 3-pack for $13.94 from Amazon, Walmart and Target): This is not your typical floral scented hand soap, but instead the aroma is neither too sweet, nor too fragrant. It has a light and delicate floral aroma that is uplifting and understated. This is a very moisturizing hand soap that neither strips the skin, nor leaves behind an oily residue. Instead, it is utter hand soap perfection. Purchase Again? I already opened another bottle!

Spongellé Daisy Collection Travel Spongettes ($12.00 each from Spongellé): are the perfect travel-sized body wash infused buffer sponges, but they are also perfect in your favorite soap dish at home. While Spongellé claims that each of them offer 7 or more washes, I find that I get about double that amount. Once you use up the body wash, then simply use the sponge with your favorite soaps and body washes. As always, the scents are gorgeous, and the buffers effectively exfoliate dead skin cells and clean the skin. The travel size body buffers offer 7+ uses, and that is why I finished three of them in a month. Purchase Again? I just opened another Spongellé Body Buffer!

Spongellé Sugar Dahlia Spongette, "meets Daisy Collection’s signature flower design. Everything you love about our travel-friendly Spongette with the bonus of soft petal curves to enhance your cleansing experience. Treat yourself to the sensual blend of sugar dahlia and evocative musk. Plus, our Spongette is accepted on all airlines making Sugar Dahlia a romantic addition to any seaside or stateside escape."

Spongellé Coconut Verbena Spongette, "meets Daisy Collection’s signature flower design. Everything you love about our travel-friendly Spongette with the bonus of soft petal curves to enhance your cleansing experience. Treat yourself to the scent of the tropics with creamy coconut and juicy citrus on tap. Plus, our Spongette is accepted on all airlines making Coconut Verbena a necessary companion on your next exotic vacation."

Spongellé Beach Grass Spongette, "meets Daisy Collection’s signature flower design. Everything you love about our travel-friendly Spongette with the bonus of soft petal curves to enhance your cleansing experience. Treat yourself to the scent of carefree summers near the water and the sweet musk of your lover’s arm. Plus, our Spongette is accepted on all airlines making Beach Grass your go-to for warm hideaways and memorable excursions abroad."

Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil ($19.00-$00.00 for 1.69 oz to 15.22 oz. Shu Uemura USA): This ultra-luxe rich and emollient cleansing oil has a luscious lightweight consistency that leaves skin soft, smooth, supple and luxuriously hydrated. While it can be used by all skin types, I suspect that it will be coveted by people with normal to dry skin. When water is introduced, this cleansing oil also transforms into a rich and creamy milky emulsion that gently removes every trace of dirt and makeup without ever stripping the skin, and it leaves skin velvety soft and smooth without leaving behind a greasy residue. It has a warm and creamy aroma that I find intoxicatingly delicious. Purchase Again? I have many other cleansing oils that I need to use, but this is a classic that I would happily use again and again and again!

LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream ($29.99 from LilyAna Naturals, Walmart): is a gentle, and yet effective Retinol cream that actually hydrates the skin. It is a lightweight, fast-absorbing and while it promotes skin cell turnover. Ingredients such as Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Aloe Vera Juice, Jojoba Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil ensure that skin is left hydrated and moisturized, rather than dry and peeling. While LilyAna Naturals posits that this cream can be used morning and night, I only use it at night and I always use a high SPF sunscreen during the day since skin is more vulnerable when using actives that encourage skin cell turnover. This cruelty-free brand is affordable, ethical and their products are very effective. Purchase Again? I have numerous other retinol-based products to use first, but I liked this enough to use it again!

TATCHA Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder ($68.00 for 2.1 oz. from TATCHA, Sephora, Ulta and Amazon): This is a very effective, yet a remarkably gentle, exfoliating cleanser. I really enjoy the metamorphosis from powder to paste, and the routine itself is immensely pleasurable. There is just enough grit to the texture of this refined and silky paste to loosen and remove all debris and dirt. I chose the Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder because I have combination skin, and it definitely is a very good fit for my skin type. Despite the fact that this cleanser exfoliates the skin from the fine gritty bits, it also depends on the enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells as well. It is a very effective exfoliant, but truly is gentle enough to be used on a daily basis. I cannot believe just how soft and smooth that this leaves my skin. I also found that leaving the paste on your face for a few minutes, as you would with a mask, renders even better results. I have found that doing so results in clean fresh skin that one experiences after getting a facial. This is such a magical powder! Purchase Again? Oh, definitely!

dearcloud new/youth collagen cream with niacinimide + algae ($20.00 for 3.38 oz. from Ulta): is a lightweight, and yet very emollient, cream that melts into the skin and leaves behind no greasy residue. The charming cloud-shaped container puts a smile on my face each time I reach for this cream. The brightening formula leaves skin luminous, and the antioxidant-rich formula protects skin from free-radical damage. Furthermore, it leaves skin soft, smooth, hydrated and supple. I do not detect a scent, though the ingredients do list fragrance. Purchase Again? I really love this cream, and will buy it again in the future, but I have a lot of open jars of cream to use first.

shu uemura Art of Hair Cleansing Oil Shampoo: It appears that shu uemura discontinued this wonderful cleansing oil shampoo! It is one of my favorite shampoos, and I am grateful that I have a bottle left. It thoroughly cleans and leaves my hair and scalp feel so good! Purchase Again? I would if they still made it!

René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA Hydrating Shine Mask ($36.00-$56.00 for 3.4 oz.- 6.9 oz. from René Furterer, Dermstore and Amazon): If ever there was a hair mask that nourished, moisturized and left hair soft, manageable, shiny and frizz-free, it is this one. It offers dry hair much-needed moisture without ever weighing it down, and it rinses clean. It has the most delectable light, nutty aroma that is an absolute pleasure to the senses. This conditioning mask is heavenly! Purchase Again? Without question!

LAVANILA The Healthy Fragrance in Vanilla Sugarcane ($48.00 for 1.7 oz. from LAVANILA and Amazon): This is a mouthwateringly delicious fragrance! The warm and creamy vanilla is brightened and spices up by the mandarine and the sugarcane adds a sweetness that is neither overpowering, nor too sweet. This is a really lovely fragrance with some depth, and it is perfect for the spring. I love this fragrance! Purchase Again? I am currently using their Healthy Fragrance in Pure Vanilla! 

Archipelago Botanicals Black Forest Candle ($44.00 for 6.7oz. from Nordstrom Rack, Archipelago and Amazon): This is one of their best-selling candles, and I definitely understand why. This dark and moody woodsy candle has the key notes of Dark Ebony Wood, Douglas Fir, and Black Currant, and those aromas are intermingled with Mulberry and Black Patchouli, and the end result is a dark and warm aroma that has a hint of sweetness that smells like a winter walk in the woods. It is a wonderfully sublime scent that is truly enchanting. I love the way that it makes my house smell when it is lit, and even when it is not. I find the scent so lovely that I often just pick it up and inhale. Fragrance Notes: Dark Ebony Wood, Douglas Fir, and Black Currant are paired with the sweet hints of Mulberry and Black Patchouli to create a dark and sweet scent you won't soon forget. Purchase Again? I already opened another one! It's truly candle perfection!

Overall Assessment: I can't believe that I finished up this many products this month. I would happily use all of these products again, but in most cases it will be a while before I need to buy more haircare, skincare or body care products. What did you finish up, toss out, return or give away in January? Any amazing product discoveries to share? Any serious duds to report?

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

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

September 2024 Empties for the Face, Body and Hair

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

In the month of September I used more haircare and body products than anything else. In fact, I only finished one skincare product, and it was a deluxe sample. I finished 9 products, and 8 of them were full sized and one was a deluxe sample. I loved everything that I used up in September, and would happily use all of these products again. I should note that all of the haircare products had been open and in use for quite some time, and there wasn't a lot left in them at the beginning of September, and therefore it didn't take much time to finish them up.

Spongellé Rose Botanica Body Wash Infused Buffer ($18.00 for 3.5 oz. from Spongellé): It appears that this particular scent has sold out, but there is still something left from this collection. These sponges not only effectively remove dead skin cells, but they also leave the skin deliciously baby soft, smooth, supple and moisturized.  Body wash infused body buffers are such a treat to use, and the Spongellé Body Wash Infused Buffers really excel in their ability to clean and exfoliate the skin while delighting the senses with their delightful aromas. Purchase Again? Oh I definitely would, but this was a limited edition collection.

Spongellé Private Reserve Spongette in Peony Flower ($12.00 for 1.75 oz. from Spongellé): This delightful spongette, which has a minimum oil 7-10 washes, effectively exfoliates dead skin cells, leaves skin soft, smooth and supple. The scent, of fresh peonies, is an utter delight to the senses. The size makes it perfect for travel, or for an overnight guest staying for a little while. Purchase Again? Definitely! This is a perfect gift!

Mrs. Meyer's Lemon Verbena Hand Soap ($4.99 for 12.5 oz. and a 3-pack for $13.94 from Amazon, Walmart and Target): Mrs. Meyer's Lemon Verbena Hand Soap is a glorious lemon verbena scented hand soap that is cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny Certified. It moisturizes the skin, and leaves the hands very soft and clean without any sort of residue. It has a satisfying lather, a delectable fresh citrus aroma, and it makes washing hands a joy rather than a drab experience. Purchase Again? I purchased multiples and just opened another one!

milk_shake Leave-In conditioner ($24.00 for 11.8 oz. from milk_shake and their Amazon Store): This is a revelation in hair care! I am a huge fan of their curly hair range of products, that I have been using for a while, but this leave-in conditioner is my all-time favorite product from them! Made for all types of hair, this conditioner offers hair tremendous manageability and moisture without weighing it down or leaving an unpleasant oily residue. It fights frizz and fly-aways, detangles, nourishes and protects the hair shaft and hair. Additionally, it offers UV protection, is color-safe and it smells utterly delectable. In fact, the sweet and creamy vanilla aroma smells so good that I would actually wear the scent as a fragrance during the summer! This is a truly covet-worthy leave-in conditioner! Purchase Again? I already have another bottle!

milk_shake Curl Passion Curly Hair Conditioner ($27.00 for 10 oz. and $66.00 for 33.8 oz. from milk_shake and their Amazon Store): Getting a conditioner just right for curly hair can feel like an exercise in futility, but some brands just get it right, and that is certainly the case with milk_shake. They really understand the needs of curly hair, and that is such a relief. This delectably scented fruity conditioner fights frizz, leaves hair manageable and never weighs it down. Hair is left soft, smooth, moisturized and curls are beautifully enhanced. Purchase Again? I have an unopened bottle ready to go!

Playa Every Day Shampoo ($35.88 for 7.6 oz. from Amazon Store): This gentle, non-stripping shampoo, effectively cleans hair and leaves it hydrated and manageable without leaving behind any sort of oily residue. The light lather coupled with warm creamy aroma makes using this delectable shampoo a treat to the senses. I need to get the companion conditioner to experience the two together, but my guess is that it is just as incredible as the shampoo. Purchase Again? I definitely would consider it, but I am currently swimming in shampoos!

Abhati Suisse Yamuna Nourishing Shampoo ($37.00 for 250ml. from Boxwalla): This luxurious shampoo, which has a delectable aroma, is formulated to work well on all types of hair. It effectively cleans the hair without ever stripping it, and without sacrificing a very satisfying creamy and rich lather. This hydrating, nourishing and fortifying shampoo contains the Vitamin C-rich Indian Gooseberry that encourages hair growth and curbs dandruff. It also contains Neem Leaf Extract, Himalayan Wild Cherry Oil, Moringa Leaf Extract, Swiss Edelweiss Extract and more nourishing ingredients that make this an exceptional shampoo. Purchase Again? I would absolutely love to use this shampoo again, but I won't be buying any shampoo for quite a while!

René Furterer Complexe 5 Stimulating Plant Concentrate ($56.00 for 1.6oz. from René Furterer, Revolve and Amazon): René Furterer Complexe 5 Stimulating Plant Concentrate is a pre-shampoo treatment that detoxes the scalp, by cleansing and purifying it, and the warming effect helps to improve microcirculation. It is soothing, invigorating and makes the scalp feel amazing, and my hair also looks and feels wonderful after using it. You simply apply it to the scalp and then massage for a few minutes, and then leave it in for about 5-10 minutes. Be sure to shampoo twice, to remove the residual oil, and then condition hair as you would normally. It has a wonderful orange aroma that is punctuated by the lavender oil, and it is such an amazing treat to the senses.

I like to follow by using René Furterer 5 Sens Enhancing Dry Oil (Reviewed HERE), which is a beautifully fast absorbing dry oil, that can be used on the hair and body. It has a lovely soft aroma that is a treat to the senses, but it isn't long lasting or in the least bit cloying. When I use it on my body, it melts into the skin and leaves it soft, supple, hydrated and nourished. For the hair, it offers extraordinary hydration and leaves locks soft, smooth and manageable. It tames frizz and fly-aways, and it gives hair a glossy shine. Purchase Again? Without question!

Furtuna Skin Biphase Moisturizing Oil ($125.00 for 1/2 oz. and $225.00 for 1 oz. from Nordstrom, Furtuna Skin's Amazon Store, blue mercury and Neiman Marcus): I have wanted to try this face oil for a very long time, and in a recent Nordstrom purchase I received a deluxe sample of this beautiful oil, and I fell for it the moment that I tried it. This biphase oil, which is made from the ingredients grown on La Furtuna Farm, is filled with sustainably farmed ingredients from the hills of Sicily where their farm is located. One must shake this luxurious oil very well to incorporate the oil and non-oil based ingredients. The texture is lightweight and silky smooth. The potent ingredients sink into the skin and do not leave behind an oily residue. Instead, this deeply moisturizing oil melts into the skin and leaves it soft, smooth and luminous. After sustained use, I noticed a light plumping of fine lines and a stunning ethereal glow. The fruity floral aroma is heavenly, but for those with a sensitivity to aromatic skincare products, it is important to note that the aroma fades quickly. I loved everything about this oil when I tried it for the first time, and a full-size bottle is definitely in my future. Purchase Again? Without a doubt! It's really that good!

 

Overall Assessment: I really loved everything that I finished up in September, and would definitely use all of these items again, and again! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in September? Any great discoveries, or over-hyped duds to report? Do tell!

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

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

René Furterer Complexe 5 Stimulating Plant Concentrate Revisted

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

René Furterer Complexe 5 Stimulating Plant Concentrate is a pre-shampoo treatment that detoxes the scalp, by cleansing and purifying it, and the warming effect helps to improve microcirculation. I have been using this product for about 2 1/2 years, and now that I am nearly finished with my most recent bottle, and about to purchase another one, and I thought that I would revisit it with you because it really is that good!

It is soothing, invigorating and makes the scalp feel amazing, and my hair also looks and feels wonderful after using it. You simply apply it to the scalp and then massage for a few minutes, and then leave it in for about 5-10 minutes. Be sure to shampoo twice, to remove the residual oil, and then condition hair as you would normally. It has a wonderful orange aroma that is punctuated by the lavender oil, and it is such an amazing treat to the senses.

I like to follow by using René Furterer 5 Sens Enhancing Dry Oil (Reviewed HERE), which is a beautifully fast absorbing dry oil, that can be used on the hair and body. It has a lovely soft aroma that is a treat to the senses, but it isn't long lasting or in the least bit cloying. When I use it on my body, it melts into the skin and leaves it soft, supple, hydrated and nourished. For the hair, it offers extraordinary hydration and leaves locks soft, smooth and manageable. It tames frizz and fly-aways, and it gives hair a glossy shine.

Features:

• Pre-shampoo treatment detoxes the scalp to improve overall hair health
• Cleanses, purifies and energizes the scalp while removing impurities without stripping the hair
• Orange essential oil provides soothing, invigorating and purifying benefits
• Lavender essential oil gently cleanses
• The essential first step to any René Furterer Thinning Hair Ritual
• Features an exclusive targeted scalp massager tip to help increase microcirculation
• Premium glass bottle delivers precise dosage for application

Directions: Apply section by section, once or twice a week over the whole scalp. Massage and leave in for 5 to 10 minutes. Shampoo twice. May cause a warm sensation on the scalp. Do not use on a sensitive scalp. Avoid use for 2 days before and 2 days after in-salon chemical services. Not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.

According René Furterer,

The Original Scalp Detoxifying Treatment Since 1957, for normal to oily scalps. Strong, beautiful hair begins at the root. This warming concentrate for normal to oily scalps and lifeless strands featuring Orange and Lavender pure essential oils deeply cleanses and purifies the scalp to help restore balance and boost the penetration of active ingredients for the complementary products.

The essential first step for optimal scalp and hair health, this pre-shampoo warming concentrate formulated with orange and lavender essential oils deeply cleanses and purifies the scalp helping to restore balance to the scalp while revealing naturally beautiful hair from roots to ends. This premium glass bottle delivers precise dosage for application and features an exclusive targeted scalp massager tip to help increase microcirculation and boost the penetration of active ingredients for complementary Rene Furterer products.

Directions: Apply section by section, once or twice a week over the whole scalp. Massage and leave in for 5 to 10 minutes. Shampoo twice. May cause a warm sensation on the scalp. Do not use on a sensitive scalp. Avoid use for 2 days before and 2 days after in-salon chemical services. Not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.

Ingredients: Limonene, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Hexylene Glycol, Fragrance, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Glyceryl Linoleate, Glyceryl Oleate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Glyceryl Linolenate, Glyceryl Palmitate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Origanum Majorana Leaf Oil, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Oil, Tocopherol.

Overall Assessment: I am obsessed René Furterer products, and this one is truly excellent! I am just about to place my next order since I only have about 8 applications left in my current bottle– which means that you will see it in my September Empties post! A+

$56.00 for 1.6oz. from René Furterer, Revolve and Amazon (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

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

June 2024 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Press Sample, Purchased & GWP (Affiliate Links)

It's hard to believe that summer is already here, and that June is already almost gone! I managed to finish up 9 products in June, and 5 of them were full-size and the remaining 4 were travel sizes for the hair. Featured are some of my favorite brands, and I would happily use all of these products again. I am posting my empties a couple of days early this month because there is no way that I will finish anything else before my July empties post! 

Spongellé Private Reserve Body Wash Infused Buffer in Rose Cassis: (Was $16.00 from Spongellé): Spongellé Body Wash Infused Buffers really excel in their ability to clean and exfoliate the skin while delighting the senses with their delightful aromas. These brilliant body wash-infused sponges effectively and gently clean and exfoliate the skin, and they also leave the it deliciously baby soft, smooth, supple and moisturized. This body buffer smells heavenly, and it is so refreshing. Fragrance Notes: Top: Grapefruit, Black Currant, Touch of Spice. Middle: Velvet Rose, Magnolia Petals, Jasmine. Base: Warm Amber, Sweet Musk, Vanilla.  Purchase Again? It appears that they no longer have this scent, but if they bring out back I am going to buy another one!

René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA Hydrating Shine Shampoo ($12.00-$64.00 for 1.6 oz, 5 oz. and 20.2 oz from René Furterer, SkinStore, Dermstore and Amazon): I have to preface this by stating that I am thoroughly obsessed with this truly amazing shampoo because it is everything that someone with dry and curly hair, like me, could ever want in a shampoo. It has a satisfying lather, but it never strips the hair, and it rinses clean without leaving behind an oily residue. It has a light, and pleasant aroma, but it isn't long-lasting or cloying. It moisturizes dry hair, without ever weighing it down, and it leaves hair remarkably soft and shiny. It is, in a word, extraordinary! Purchase Again? I already purchased another one!

Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo ($26.00-$52.00 for 1.3oz.0- 8.5 oz. from Sephora, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's and Oribe): Described as a "transformative dry shampoo"– this wonderful smelling Oribe gem extends hair styles between shampoos, and it offers hair texture while maintaining touchable soft locks. Purchase Again? I have lots of dry shampoos to use first, but this is one of the best that I have tried!

milk_shake leave-in conditioner in flower fragrance ($10.40 for 2.5 oz and $24.00 for 11.8 oz. from milk_shake and their Amazon Store): is one of my my latest discoveries from this wonderful brand, and I can't say enough good things about it! I use leave-in conditioners every single day– I use them after I wash my hair and even on days when I don't since a good leave-in conditioner keeps my hair manageable and hydrated. This lovely leave-in detangles, offers my hair lasting hydration, and fights frizz and leaves my hair soft and shiny. It has a wonderful fragrance that is delectable and intoxicating, but if you don't use fragrant hair products, this one might not be for you. However, the aroma isn't imposing or distracting. It is formulated for all types of hair. Purchase Again? I have more bottles!

Oribe Côte d'Azur Hair Refresher ($26.00 for 1.6 oz from Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's): This hair refresher fights static and neutralizes odors. I neither have static, nor odor issues, but I found that it gave my hair a nice pick-me-up between shampoos. Purchase Again? I would use it, if I had it, but I would run out to buy their dry shampoo before this.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray ($26.00-$52.00 for 2.2 oz and 8.5 oz from Nordstrom, Sephora, Bloomingdale's and Oribe): This dry hairspray, which is weightless, adds volume and texture to hair, and it is glorious to use! Purchase Again? YES!

Crystal Essence Mineral Deodorant Roll-On (Bundle of three for $15.00 from Amazon in a bundle of $6.79 for 2.25 oz. from Walgreens, Walmart): Their deodorants are available in a delightful array of scents, and an unscented variety, these natural roll-on deodorants offer me all-day protection and they neither stain clothing, nor do they irritate my sensitive skin. They are not antiperspirants, and therefore will not prevent sweating. The Lavender & White Tea has a wonderful and light herbal/lavender aroma that in't in the least bit imposing, and it offers me all-day protection. Purchase Again? I will definitely be purchasing one of the three-packs from Amazon since it offers a great savings.

LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Pure Vanilla ($12.00 for 2 oz. from LAVANILA, Amazon and Target): 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.

The Pure Vanilla scent is warm and creamy perfection, and wearing the deodorant and fragrance together is delectable! Purchase Again? A already opened another one!

Curél Anti-Wrinkle Hydrating Serum ($18.68 for 1.3 oz from Amazon): This serum is a gift to my dehydrated skin. The hot weather outdoors immediately followed by the air conditioned indoors has definitely dehydrated my skin, and this mighty little serum is really helping. This mid-weight serum melts into the skin immediately, and it offers serious on-demand hydration. Formulated with Ginger Root Extract, which reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and Ceramides, to firm and hydrate, skin is left soft, smooth, supply, hydrated and lines softened. It is fragrance-free, with to detectable scent at all, and therefore it should pose no problem to people with sensitive skin, or sensitivities to scented skincare products. Purchase Again? I have far too many serums to use up before buying another one, but I would definitely use this again! 

Overall Assessment: I am pleased that I recycled 9 empties in June, and hopefully I will use up a fair number of open bottles, jars and tubes in July! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in June. Any spectacular discoveries to report? Any serious disappointments?

Purchased, Press Sample and GWP (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

May 2024 Empties for the Face, Body, Hair & Home

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I am a little surprised that this month I mostly used up body and hair care products, and that there was a single skincare product and a candle to finish off the month of May. Of the 10 items used, 9 were full size, and one was a travel size (that I used at home, incidentally). Here is what I finished up:

Spongellé Mini Buffer Bits ($10.00 from Spongellé): Inspired by delectable tiny donut holes, these Mini Buffer Bits are a sweet extension of Spongellé’s skin-nourishing Confection Body Wash Infused Buffer Line. Available in four mood-enhancing scents (Jasmine Brûlée, Burnt Sugar, Cocoa Bon and Chiffon Rose), these adorable, dual-sided mini buffers are the perfect size for precise deep-cleansing, softening cuticles, nails, heels or any other areas of the body with small dry patches. They feature a special soft cleansing surface on one side and a gentle textured exfoliation on the other. Each Buffer Bit is infused with skin-softening triple butter and exfoliating sugarcane extract. These are especially effective after gardening since they really clear all of the dirt from under the nails! Purchase Again? I have another set in a different scent that I am just about to open!

Spongellé Love Always | Bulgarian Rose Heart Buffer ($14.00 from Spongellé): This delightful body buffer makes skin look and feel incredible, and the scent is heavenly. "Send a love letter with Spongelle’s Love Always Heart Buffer in Bulgarian Rose. Perfect for travel, these heart-shaped body wash infused buffers will cleanse, exfoliate, massage and love your skin." Fragrance Notes: Top: Cinnamon Sticks, Sliced Ginger, Sweet Clove, Juicy Orange, Middle: Tuberose, Base: Whipped Vanilla, Cozy Musk. Perfect for travel, this heart-shaped body wash infused buffers cleanses, exfoliates and pampers the skin. Purchase Again? I have another one that is ready to open!

Spongellé Private Reserve Body Wash Infused Buffer in Blood Orange: (Was $16.00 from Spongellé): "These buffers with built-in body wash are infused with extracts of yuzu, edelweiss and vetiver root to cleanse, exfoliate, massage, and hydrate the skin for a spa-like pampering experience at home." Fragrance Notes: Top: Orange, Mandarin, Peach. Middle: Jasmine, Rose, Lychee. Base: Patchouli, Vetiver, Vanilla, Musk. This body buffer smells heavenly, and it is so refreshing. Purchase Again? It appears that they no longer have this Private Reserve scent, but if they bring out back I am going to buy several!

Spongellé Florica Candle in Mystic Rose ($45.00 for 8 oz. from Spongellé): is an ultra-luxe cruelty-free soy candle with a flickering wooden wick. Like to diffuser, the aroma is beautiful amalgam of Rose (top note), Water Lily (middle note) and Sweet Musk (base note), and the result is a complex floral that is neither too sweet, nor too musky. The substantial glass housing is beautiful, and it perfect to use for makeup brushes, eye pencils or pens after the candle has been used. The stunning gift box is truly noteworthy, and a true show-stopper. Purchase Again? I have had many of their candles, but this is definitely my very favorite. I will definitely splurge and buy another one!

Abhati Suisse Mahakali Nourishing Conditioner ($58.00 value from a Boxwalla box): This nourishing and hydrating conditioner weightlessly treats the hair and gives it a glossy shine without leaving behind any buildup or residue. Hair is left manageable, frizz-free and utterly gorgeous. It has a wonderful herbal aroma that lingers in the most pleasant, rather than cloying, way. Purchase Again? I would love to get this again, but I need to use up a lot of conditioners before purchasing another. I am still using their shampoo, and I absolutely love it!

René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA Hydrating Day Cream ($36.00 for 3.3 oz. Karité Hydra Hydrating Day Cream from René Furturer): is one of my most reached-for hair hydrators. It is a leave-in that has a wonderful lightweight creamy-gel texture and a delectable light aroma. It is very emollient, and it offers sustained hydration throughout the day, but it does so without ever weighing down the hair. It fights frizz and fly-aways, makes hair more manageable, and it gives hair a lustrous shine. It is suitable for normal to dry hair, and it is a real gem for my naturally curly hair. I use the entire Karité Hydra Hydrating haircare collection, and I highly recommend it to anyone with hair in need of hydration. It is a game-changer for me, and it makes my curly hair manageable, frizz-free and decidedly glossy. Purchase Again? I will continue to buy this as long as they make it!

Oribe Après Beach Wave and Shine Spray ($46.00 for 8.5 oz. and $24.00 for 2.1 oz. from Oribe, Amazon, Sephora, Nordstrom and bluemercury): I haven't met an Orbit haircare product that I didn't love, and this is, without question, the nicest Beach Wave spray that I have tried. This one actually imparts moisture, offers a light hold and a lovely shine. It doesn't leave hair crunchy, flaky or stiff and it has that wonderful Oribe aroma! Purchase Again? Without question, it is well worth the splurge!

Curél Deep Moisture Spray ($15.00 for 5 oz. from the Curél Amazon Store): is an amazing find, and it is just perfect for the warmer weather! 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. Purchase Again? I just opened another one!

MyKirei by KAO Yuzu Flower Foam Hand Soap ($18.00 for 8.5 oz. from MyKirei and their Amazon Store): is, without question, the most charming hand soap that I have tried. Each pump of this fetching hand soap produces a floral shaped dense and creamy foam that is soft and creamy to the touch. It thoroughly cleans the hands, without ever stripping, and in fact leaves them moisturized. The lovely Yuzu aroma is uplifting and refreshing, but it doesn't linger for long after rinsing. Everything about this beautiful hand soap is wondrous. Purchase Again? I plan to buy the refill, and will continue to use this bottle.

Erno Laszlo Phormula 3-9 Repair Balm ($280.00 for 1.7 fl.oz. from Erno Laszlo and Nordstrom): is a great product to use when you have irritated skin. If you have a break out, a sunburn, or red and irritated skin that requires something gentle, nourishing and healing, then this mighty balm really helps. It makes this a perfect choice post-peel and post-exfoliation for that very reason. I recently had a bad allergic reaction to a product that I was testing, and it left an irritated patch of skin on my face that was dry, red and peeling, and nothing seemed to help it heal. 

Thankfully, I already had this balm, and while I had little hope that it would help, I decided to try it anyway. Much to my surprise the flaking, peeling, itching, redness and irritation went away after a couple of days of use. It is very concentrated, and only requires a tiny, tiny bit. It is very easy to overdo it and use far more balm than necessary, and therefore I start out with very little and add more as needed. Not only is it calming, but it is also incredibly hydrating and it leaves the skin very soft, smooth and supple. It is definitely a luxury product with a luxury price tag, but it is so concentrated that it will last a very long time. It contains no fragrance, Phthalates, Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Urea, or colorants. Purchase Again? While I really loved this balm, I have far too many open balms, creams, serums and lotions to justify purchasing it again.

Overall Assessment: Well, there you have it. While I thought that I would use up more skincare products this month, I did finish up 10 products. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return to sender in May? Did you discover any amazing products or any much-hyped products that fell short of your expectations? Do tell!

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

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

René Furterer Karité Hydra Hydrating Day Cream Revisted

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I have happily used René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA Hydrating Day Cream for nearly two years, and after I bought my first bottle, I knew that this was one of my holy grail haircare products. I decided to revisit it because I have about two-uses left in my current bottle, and since I am about to repurchase it yet again. I thought that I would state why I am emphatic about always having a bottle of this miracle worker in my haircare product rotation.

René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA Hydrating Day Cream is one of my most reached-for hair hydrators. It is a leave-in that has a wonderful lightweight creamy-gel texture and a delectable light aroma. It is very emollient, and it offers sustained hydration throughout the day, but it does so without ever weighing down the hair. It fights frizz and fly-aways, makes hair more manageable, and it gives hair a lustrous shine. It is suitable for normal to dry hair, and it is a real gem for my naturally curly hair.

René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA Hydrating Shine Shampoo & René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA  Hydrating Shine Mask and René Furterer KARITÉ HYDRA Hydrating Day Cream are part of René Furterer's incredible KARITÉ HYDRA collection for dry hair. Therefore, it is, unsurprisingly, perfect for my dry and curly hair.

KARITÉ HYDRA is: Infused with sustainably-sourced Shea oil from West Africa, patented Cimentrio® complex and essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants, KARITÉ HYDRA replenishes moisture to dry scalps and helps repair hair, leaving strands soft, silky and shiny.

According to René Furturer,

A daily care, no-rinse treatment with a lightweight gel-cream texture that weightlessly hydrates and enhances dry hair for soft, supple and easy-to-style strands.

PRODUCT BENEFITS:

• A daily no-rinse treatment for dry, dehydrated hair
• Shea oil moisturizes and restores hair’s protective barrier 
• Cimentrio complex helps fortify strands
• Helps prevent further damage
• Enhances hair’s softness and shine without weighing it down

Directions: Use daily on dry or towel-dried hair, spreading a small amount along the hair lengths.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil (Butyrospermum Parkii Oil), Dicaprylyl Ether, C14-22 Alcohols, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Citronellol, Fragrance (Parfum), Glycerin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil (Glycine Soja Oil), Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols (Glycine Soja Sterols), Glycolipids, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool, Phenoxyethanol, Phospholipids, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Sorbic Acid, Sorbitan Isostearate, Tocopherol.

According to René Furterer,

For Normal To Dry Hair. Infused with sustainably-sourced Shea oil from West Africa, patented Cimentrio® complex and essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants, KARITÉ HYDRA replenishes moisture to dry scalps and helps repair hair, leaving strands soft, silky and shiny.

Karité Hydra Hydrating Products:
Karité Hydra Hydrating Shampoo (5.0 fl. oz.) Reviewed HERE.
Karité Hydra Hydrating Shine Mask (6.9 fl. oz.) Reviewed HERE.
Karité Hydra Hydrating Day Cream (3.3 fl. oz.)

Overall Assessment: I use the entire Karité Hydra Hydrating haircare collection, and I highly recommend it to anyone with hair in need of hydration. It is a game-changer for me, and it makes my curly hair manageable, frizz-free and decidedly glossy.

Purchased. $36.00 for 3.3 oz. Karité Hydra Hydrating Day Cream from René Furturer (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own.

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

René Furterer 25% Off Friends & Family Sale

(Affiliate Links)

René Furterer is having a 25% Off Friends & Family Sale now through January 21st, 2024 11:59pm PST, or while supplies last. Receive 25% off your purchase before taxes and shipping costs. I always stock up on my favorites during their sales, and plan on shopping this event, as well! Use Code: FFSEASON.

Visit: www.ReneFurtererUSA.com

*FFSEASON is valid through January 21, 2024 11:59pm PST or while supplies last. Receive 25% off purchase before tax and shipping costs are calculated. Must enter code: FFSEASON in bag to redeem the offer. Kits are excluded from all promotions. Based on availability at time of purchase. Valid exclusively on ReneFurtererUSA.com for US residents only. No cash value and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Promotion will not apply to prior purchases, shipping fees, or taxes. By redeeming the offer, you agree to these terms and conditions.