I used up 6 full-size products in the busy month of December, and not a single one of them was a skincare product! I only used hair and body products, but they were all absolutely noteworthy.
Rituals Zensation Organic Rice Milk & Cherry Blossom Foaming Shower Gel (Discontinued scent): I fell in love with this innovative shower gel from the very first moment that I used it. It's an extraordinary take on the ordinary, and for me it makes my bathing experience anything but mundane. The unique gel to foam technology not only makes it immensely fun to use, but it exceeds my every expectation of what a body cleansing gel should do. It cleans beautifully, smells glorious, and leaves the skin lusciously hydrated and soft. Furthermore, the rich dense foamy texture lends itself to being one seriously amazing shaving cream that cleanses, softens, and gives a seriously close shave. My legs have been transformed into the most soft and silky skin imaginable, and this gorgeous product has quickly given the boot to all of my other shaving creams! Purchase Again? I have a couple of other scents from Rituals, and will open another one soon!
Spongellé Body & Soul Detox Buffer in Cosmic Lavender ($28.00 from Spongellé): This is a body wash infused buffer with ashwagandha root extract, and it includes its own chakra stone for meditation and cleansing. Helping to wash away negativity, each crystal creates a new found sense of energy– based upon the 7 chakras. The scent is lovely, and it thoroughly cleans and leaves skin soft and exfoliated. Violet is Cosmic Lavender (Crown Chakra). Purchase Again? I have more from this collection that I am about to open!
Potager Soap Co. Rosemary Lemongrass Soap ($9.98 for 4.5 oz. from Potager Soap Co.): This soap strikes the perfect balance between the aroma of the Rosemary and the Lemongrass. Each scent tempers the other in the most delectable way. It is a very moisturizing bar with a very satisfying creamy lather, and it is an absolute delight to use. Purchase Again? I just opened another Potager Soap Co.!
Viori Shampoo Hair Bar Hidden Waterfall™ Sweet-Musk Scented ($18.00 for 3.5 oz. from Sephora, Viori and the Viori Amazon Store): This beautifully fragrant shampoo bar boasts a satisfying lather that thoroughly cleans the hair and scalp without drying, stripping or leaving behind an oily residue. This particular bar is best suited for dry and normal hair, and it's gorgeous decorative floral motif is a luxurious delight to behold. Purchase Again? I have a lot of shampoo to use up first, but I will happily buy this in the future.
Spongellé Eau de Toilette in Peony Flower ($28.00 for 0.3 oz. from Spongellé): This is a striking floral that is the perfect embodiment of a huge bouquet of sweet peonies. The fruity floral aroma, which is informed by Rose, Waterlily and Papaya Flower also has a touch of crisp Red Apple, and the Musk in the base adds a beautiful layer of complexity to this lovely composition. Once again, this fetching fragrance sits close enough to the skin that it will never enter the room before you do. Purchase Again? I have a lot of open fragrances to use, but would happily use this again!
Spongellé Eau de Toilette in Blackberry($28.00 for 0.3 oz. from Spongellé): What a lovely surprise, and it really does smell like "summer in a bottle" as Spongellé asserts. The Citrus and Blackberry are harmoniously juxtaposed with the Pink Jasmine and Vanilla Sugar, and the base notes of Sweet Musk and White Amber give the overall composition a warm and creamy depth without sacrificing the light elements that the top and middle notes provide. It is a gorgeous and infinitely wearable scent that delights the senses, and it sits close enough to the skin that it never enters the room before you do. Purchase Again? I would happily use this again!
Overall Assessment: I throughly enjoyed using all of these products, and really love all four of these brands. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in December?
Kneipp Relaxing Lavender Shower Foam & Body Wash is a delectably aromatic shower foam that is creamy-dreamy, it fills the shower with the sweet scent of lavender, and it is wonderfully hydrating. Not only does it clean the skin thoroughly, and without any drying or stripping, but it also works small miracles for shaving the legs and underarms. I have used this product for a very long time, and was surprised to find a hidden can at the back of my cabinet, and I am just overjoyed to have made that discovery!
According to Kneipp,
Treat yourself to the richly foaming Kneipp Lavender Shower Foam Relaxing. Experience the relaxing effects of Lavender. When mixed with water, the gel transforms into a unique, creamy foam. Lather up with our luxurious foam as it transforms your shower experience with powerful aromas and beautiful scents of Lavender.
Overall Assessment: If you love lavender, then this is must-have!
$12.00-$16.00 for 6.8 oz. from Kneipp's Amazon Store, Ulta and SkinStore (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
At this point you are quite aware that I am a huge fan of Kneipp's skincare and body care products, and I use them all of the time. Kneipp is a cruelty-free brand that makes very effective products that are a treat to use, and that are affordable. Furthermore, they offer all sorts of sales and special offers through their website– to the delight of their appreciative customers.
Cruelty Free | No Paraffin, Silicone or Mineral Oils | Plant-Based | Paraben Free | Vegan | Dermatologist Tested & Recommended | No Preservatives
Kneipp Blooming Charm White Hibiscus & Shea Butter Shower Foam ($16.00 for 6.81 oz. from Kneipp): This delightful rich and creamy shower foam, with its delectable light floral aroma, thoroughly cleanses the skin without stripping it, and in fact leaves skin soft, smooth and moisturized. It starts out as a gel and quickly transforms into a rich foam, and it is so moisturizing that I even use it to shave my legs.
According to Kneipp,
Naturally soft beauty! The soft floral fragrance of white hibiscus and the special texture with rich shea butter provide an extraordinary shower experience to cleanse and moisturize the skin. When mixed with water, the gel transforms into a unique, creamy foam.
Kneipp Argan & Marula Beauty Secret Body Oil ($22.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): This feather-weight body oil, which features Argan and Marula Oils, melts into the skin without leaving behind a greasy residue. It deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin leaving it silky smooth and soft to the touch. The antioxidant-rich formula helps protect the skin against free-radical damage, and leaves the skin radiant. I love to apply this oil to warm and slightly damp freshly cleansed skin right out of the shower. It has a very subtle aroma that is barely discernible, and that fades upon absorption.
According to Kneipp,
The Argan & Marula Body Oil “Beauty Secret” Contains a combination of four valuable natural oils which intensively nourish the skin and maintain the skin's moisture levels. It can regenerate and strengthen the skin's barrier – for velvety, smooth skin. Argan oil makes the skin feel supple and gives it an even appearance. Marula oil strengthens the skin barrier and nourishes the skin. Castor oil has a lipid-replenishing effect and thus compensates for moisture loss. Olive oil protects the skin and makes it velvety smooth. The Beauty Secret Body Oil is a hidden gem that will leave your skin radiant and richly moisturized.
Kneipp Calendula & Orange Foot Repair Butter ($22.00 for 3.45 oz. from Kneipp): Dry and cracked feet really benefit from a richly moisturizing cream, and this one is remarkably effective. It is rich, thick and creamy, and yet it sinks into the skin immediately without leaving behind a greasy residue. I am impressed by the extent to which it heals dryness and leaves feet soft and smooth. It has a wonderful citrusy aroma– that makes using it very pleasant. I have a jar that lives on my nightstand, and I use it every single night before I go to bed.
According to Kneipp,
The Kneipp® Repair Butter is a rich moisturizing foot cream containing potent and effective natural herbs for very dry, cracked and callused skin. Calendula extract, known for its soothing properties, combined with shea butter and 10% moisture retaining urea, moisturizes, softens and helps to recondition the skin. In addition, rosemary essential oil can revitalize tired feet.
Overall Assessment: 3 more serious contenders from Kneipp! If you haven't tried their products yet, I highly recommend adding Kneipp to your must-try list.
Dove Beauty Bars have been a staple in my life since early childhood, and as an adult their Beauty Bars and Body Washes continue to inhabit my bathrooms, and are reached for by my family on a daily basis. The new Dove Anti-Stress Micellar Water Body Wash and Dove Anti-Stress Micellar Water Beauty Bar are among my personal favorites that I think you will love as well. I have also featured a few of my other Dove favorites that are in current rotation.
Dove Anti-Stress Micellar Water Body Wash ($5.49 for 22 oz. from Target, Walmart, and Walgreens): This ultra-gentle lathering body wash, with its fresh and clean fragrance, effectively lifts all dirt without stripping or drying the skin. It nourishes and lightly hydrates, and even soothes irritated dry skin. Dove suggests that it can be used on the body and face, but I only use it on my body.
According to Dove,
What is micellar water, and why have we introduced micellar water technology into our new stress relief body wash? Well, in a world with rising urbanization, pollution and environmental changes, women are seeking a more calming body wash. One with a formula that can help defend against environmental stressors while providing the gentlest care for the most sensitive skin. For that reason, more women are turning to the cleansing power of micellar technology, where tiny micelle particles surround and gently lift away dirt and impurities which are then rinsed away without any harsh rubbing required. This new Dove body wash combines all of the micellar water benefits with the gentleness you’ve come to expect from a Dove nourishing body wash. Designed to reduce the effects of harmful environmental stressors that can damage, dry out, and irritate your skin, our new mild body wash with micellar water cleansers brings anti-stress skin care to a new level. Calm your skin by washing away environmental stressors like dirt & grime with Dove's gentle Anti-Stress Micellar body wash.
Dove Anti-Stress Micellar Water Beauty Bar ($5.49 for 4 bars from Target, Walmart and Walgreens): This rich and creamy lathering beauty bar, which has the same fresh and clean fragrance as the Micellar Water Body Wash, is mild and gentle on the skin, and it neither strips, nor leaves it dry. In fact, it hydrates the skin and leaves it soft and smooth. I have even lathered it up to shave my legs, and found it very effective.
According to Dove,
To help protect against the effects of pollution and environmental stressors, Dove has developed a mild and gentle cleanser designed to soothe stressed out skin. This new Dove beauty bar combines the cleansing benefits of micellar water with the nourishment of Dove. So, what are micelles and how does micellar water work? When using a micellar water cleanser, tiny cleansing micro-molecules – when mixed with water – form spheres called micelles that attract and trap dirt and impurities like magnets which are then gently rinsed away without irritating skin. And unlike regular soap bars that can dry out your skin, this Dove bar also contains our classic ¼ moisturizing cream to nourish as it cleanses by replenishing your skin’s nutrients, leaving it feeling softer and smoother. It’s time to treat your skin to an exceptionally delicate Dove beauty bar that cleans as gently as a Dove sensitive skin bar and is suitable for daily use on face, body, and hands. For best results, lather up your Dove Beauty Bar and massage the smooth, creamy lather over your face and body before rinsing thoroughly. For soft, smooth hands, you can also enjoy regular hand-washing throughout the day with your Dove bar. Soap may dry out your hands, but the classic moisturizing formula of Dove bars will leave skin softer, smoother and healthier-looking.
Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash ($4.79-$6.99 for 22 oz. from Target, Harmon Face Values, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Walgreens and other national retailers): This is a rich and creamy body wash that has a rich, dense, creamy and emollient lather. It is very moisturizing, and it leaves the skin soft, silky smooth and hydrated. Like the sensitive skin variant, it has a light fresh aroma, and I find it emollient enough to use for shaving my legs and under arms. Though it is very moisturizing, it leaves behind no greasy residue, and washes away clean.
According to Dove,
Who doesn’t like having soft skin? We all want to keep our skin looking healthy and well cared for, and it’s much easier to make that a regular part of your routine if you’ve found a moisturizing body wash. That’s the best way to feel confident that you’re nurturing your skin right from the start of your day. We know how you can do just that – with Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash. All skin deserves gentleness. This moisturizing and mild body wash combines NutriumMoisture™ with 100% gentle cleansers to help your skin retain its natural moisture, leaving you with softer, smoother skin after just one shower. The caring #1 Dermatologist recommended formula in this Dove body wash helps maintain your skin’s moisture barrier while delivering natural skin nourishment that goes deep into the surface layers of your skin. It creates a rich lather that replenishes your skin’s nutrients while also leaving it feeling cared for and clean.
Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash ($4.79-$6.99 for 22 oz. from Target, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Walgreens, and other national retailers): If you have sensitive skin, then this ultra-gentle sulfate-free body wash is a perfect choice. It is a non-stripping and moisturizing body wash that has a rich and creamy lather. It has a light and clean fragrance, but it is neither cloying, nor long-lasting. This body wash is creamy, emollient and hydrating enough that I can use it to shave my legs and underarms!
According to Dove,
Those of us with sensitive skin know all too well that it needs special care – and how much of a relief it is when we find a body wash that provides that. A good sensitive skin body wash is designed with the needs of delicate skin in mind. And we know one that fits the bill: Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash, a dermatologist-recommended, hypoallergenic body wash that looks after sensitive skin while still providing the rich lather that we all love. Dove doesn’t leave skin stripped of nutrients after washing. That’s because the formula has mild cleansers, to help your skin retain nutrients as you shower, as well as NutriumMoisture™, which replenishes any nutrients that are lost. It helps to maintain your skin’s moisture barrier as you wash, and leaves you with softer, smoother skin after just one shower. Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash is hypoallergenic: it’s our best body wash for sensitive skin.
Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash (Not shown. $4.79-$6.99 for 22 oz. from Target, Walgreens, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Harmon Face Values and other national retailers): I love using exfoliating body washes, but I prefer gentle ones that neither strip, nor over-exfoliate the skin. This gentle exfoliating body wash has soft and uniformly round exfoliating beads that do not traumatize or over-exfoliate the skin. Instead, this richly creamy and emollient body wash gently exfoliates the skin, and leaves it super soft, smooth and hydrated. It has a light and clean aroma that is quite pleasant.
According to Dove,
Are you wondering how to nourish skin and revitalize your senses at the same time? A body wash with a vibrant scent that also cares for your skin while you wash could be just the thing you’re looking for. And with Dove’s Go Fresh range, you can get a light, hydrating feel and refreshing formula that lets you nourish your skin in the shower each day, and refresh your mind and body at the same time. That’s why we’ve created Dove Go Fresh Revitalize Body Wash, with a vibrant mandarin and tiaré flower scent and a nourishing formula that leaves you and your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. All skin deserves gentleness, which is why Dove is sulfate free, and #1 dermatologist recommended.
Dove Deep Moisture Shower Foam ($5.99 for 13.5 oz. from Target, Walmart and Walgreens): This airy and light shower foam has a subtle and fresh aroma that, to me, smells like summer. The soft and airy lather is creamy and gentle against the skin, and it neither strips it, nor leaves it in the least bit dry. Skin is left soft, smooth and lightly hydrated.
According to Dove,
Your body wash should nourish your skin with goodness, as well as cleanse. Providing an extra boost of nourishment, Dove Shower Foam Deep Moisture Foaming Body Wash gently refreshes and cares for your skin with its instant, lightweight foam with an airy texture. The result: skin that’s beautifully clean, soft and smooth. Nourishing deep* into the surface layers of your skin, Dove Shower Foam Deep Moisture Foaming Body Wash is formulated with our NutriumMoisture™ technology. Made with skin natural lipids and moisturizers to help support a healthy skin barrier, this foaming body cleanser helps your skin look and feel more beautiful.
Dove Sensitive Skin Shower Foam ($5.99 for 13.5 oz. from Target, Walgreens and Walmart): The foaming cleanser has precisely the same detectable attributes as the Deep Moisture Shower Foam, but it is formulated for people with sensitive skin. It is not fragrance-free, but instead has a subtle fresh aroma. It neither strips the skin, nor does it leave it in the least bit dry our taut. I find that my skin is left soft, smooth and lightly hydrated.
According to Dove,
If you have sensitive skin, you know it needs extra-special care to look its beautiful best. Hypoallergenic Dove Shower Foam Sensitive Skin Foaming Body Wash provides the care your skin needs. With a mild and soothing foam formula that helps minimize dryness, this body wash for sensitive skin gently cleanses and nourishes, leaving you feeling soft, smooth and refreshed. Containing our NutriumMoisture™ technology and Dove’s moisturizing formula, Dove body wash helps replenish sensitive skin so it feels moisturized. Nourishing deep* into the surface layers of the skin, Dove Shower Foam Sensitive Skin Foaming Body Wash helps to support your skin’s moisture barrier, leaving it feeling clean and moisturized.
Overall Assessment: I always repurchase Dove body washes and body bars, and these are definite favorites in my household. I find that I am reaching for the new Anti-Stress Micellar Body Wash and Body Bar the most lately because they are so light, refreshing, gentle and hydrating– which is just perfect for the hot summer weather. If you love Dove Body Bars and Body Washes, then these are definitely worthy of your consideration.
While there is so much joy associated with the holidays, they are also fraught with considerable stress. With all of the running around, shopping, cooking, entertaining, traveling and expending lots of energy, it is hard not to periodically succumb to all of the stress. For me, my go-to response to this is a nice calming cup of caffeine-free tea, Red Roobois is my favorite, and wonderfully aromatic bath and body products for some pampering. Lavender always soothes me, and therefore Kneipp's Lavender Collection ranks among my favorites. Below you will find some of my Kneipp recommendations for the holidays.
According to Kneipp,
Experience the calming effects of Lavender. The timeless scent of Lavender is shared in our signature body care collection, to provide a calm, deeply moisturizing bathing experience in all your body care needs. Not only known for its pleasant fragrance, Lavender is also touted for its powers to treat a number of ailments. For centuries, Lavender has been used as a bath additive to help improve circulation, ease pain and improve mental mental well-being. The scent of Lavender is known to naturally produce a gentle, balancing effect and help put you in a relaxed state. Relax, unwind and embrace the soothing elegance of this fragrant plant.
Kneipp Lavender Shower Foam Relaxing ($16.00 for 6.81 oz. from Kneipp): This delectably aromatic shower foam is creamy-dreamy, it fills the shower with the sweet scent of lavender, and it is wonderfully hydrating. Not only does it clean the skin thoroughly, and without any stripping, but it also works small miracles for shaving the legs.
According to Kneipp,
Treat yourself to the richly foaming Kneipp Lavender Shower Foam Relaxing. Experience the relaxing effects of Lavender. When mixed with water, the gel transforms into a unique, creamy foam. Lather up with our luxurious foam as it transforms your shower experience with powerful aromas and beautiful scents of Lavender.
Kneipp Aromatherapy Relaxing Lavender Bubble Bath($15.00 for 13.52 oz. from Kneipp): Treat yourself, or anyone on your holiday gift list, to utter luxury and relaxation with the Kneipp Relaxing Lavender Bubble Bath. The natural essential lavender oil calms the senses and quiets the mind, and it encourages a restful night of sleep.
According to Kneipp,
The Kneipp Lavender Aromatherapy Bubble Bath Relaxing with essential oil of lavender harmonizes and can help bring your mind and body back into balance. Experience the relaxing activity on body and mind by soaking in a warm bath for 15 to 20 minutes. The lavender bubble bath fills the tub with beautiful shades of blue and lavender like a calm ocean. Along with the beneficial ingredients, the color of the bath water can play a part in calming one's mood through the use of color therapy. By combining the finest ingredients with rich, calming hues, Kneipp strives to deliver your best bathing experience.
Kneipp Lavender Herbal Bath Oil Relaxing ($20.00 for 3.38 z. from Kneipp and Skin Care Rx): If you love the aroma of Lavender Oil, then you will be over the moon when you envelop your senses with this calming bath oil. In addition to leaving the skin soft, smooth and hydrated, it leaves quiets the mind and calms the spirit, and for this reason I love using it right before going to sleep.
According to Kneipp,
The Kneipp Lavender Herbal Bath Oil “Relaxing” with aroma-intensive essential lavender oil can help keep you grounded when life gets too hectic. Our Lavender bath oil fills the tub with beautiful shades of blue, playing off the calming effects of color therapy to create a spa experience for relaxing. Lavender is known for its special scent and versatile effects, one of which is for its ability to relieve tension and ease nerves. Therefore it is a perfect plant for balancing the emotions and lifting the spirits.
Kneipp Lavender Bath Bar ($5.00 for 4.76 oz. from Kneipp): This gentle bar boasts a lovely lather without stripping the skin in the least. Great in the shower or taking up pride of place at your bathroom sink, this luxurious aromatic bar is a delight to the senses.
According to Kneipp,
Mild cleaning and gentle care without drying out your skin. Give yourself and your hands a short break from everyday life with the relaxing scent of lavender and nourishing plant oils.
This product is vegan.
Kneipp Body Lavender Lotion Relaxing ($18.00 for 6.76 oz. from Kneipp and Kneipp's Official Amazon Store): This is a lightweight and fast absorbing body lotion that offers the hydration of a heavier cream without having to wait a long time for it to absorb into the skin. The relaxing lavender aroma makes this the perfect moisturizer to use before going to bed for a restful slumber, or any time of day when you seek to relax.
According to Kneipp,
The Kneipp Lavender Body Lotion - "Relaxing" contains high-quality essential lavender oil and a high percentage of natural, intensively caring plant oils. The moisturizing formula with vitamins A, E and panthenol regenerates the skin so that it feels soft and supple. Blended with the beautiful fragrance of Lavender oil and nourishing sweet almond oil, your skin will be left soft and your mind comforted. Suitable for all skin types.
Kneipp makes so many truly incredible aromatic body care products, and I thought that I would choose some of my favorites to help ring in the fall. The quality of their products is first rate, and they are very affordable.
Kneipp Shower Foam Refreshing Mint Eucalyptus ($16.00 for 6.81 oz. from Kneipp): I love dense and creamy foam body cleansers, and this one is incredibly uplifting and refreshing. The mint and eucalyptus aroma is neither too pungent, nor cloying– instead it is uplifting and refreshing. It is also a perfect choice if you have a head cold accompanied by nasal congestion and/or a sore throat. It opens up your sinuses and offers temporary relief from the cold symptoms. Furthermore, as a cleanser this shower foam does an exquisite job thoroughly cleaning the skin without any stripping or drying.
According to Kneipp,
Treat yourself to the richly foaming Kneipp Mint & Eucalyptus Shower Foam - “Refreshing”. Experience the refreshing activity of mint and eucalyptus to stimulate the mind. When mixed with water, the gel transforms into a unique, creamy foam to lather up your body with our beautiful blends of essential oils.
Eucalyptus oil is obtained from the fresh leaves of the Eucalyptus tree. Eucalyptus is known to naturally ease respiratory problems, stimulate circulation and free the airways to help combat cold, cough, runny nose, nasal congestion and sore throat.
This product is vegan which means it doesn't contain any components of animal origin.
Kneipp Almond Blossom Body Wash Soft Skin ($14.00 for 6.76 oz. from Kneipp, Kneipp's Official Amazon Store and Dermstore): Almond Blossom is one of my favorite Kneipp fragrances, and I covet anything from their range of products that features this delectable fragrance. It is a subtle and warm floral that is a treat to the senses. Furthermore, this hydrating body wash thoroughly cleans the skin without stripping or drying it. The creamy, emollient lather is perfect for shaving your legs as well.
According to Kneipp,
The Kneipp® Almond Blossom Body Wash - "Soft Skin" with moisturizing almond and jojoba oils, hydrates dry, sensitive skin. This soap-free and pHbalanced formula cleanses gently, leaving skin soft and supple. The plant-derived conditioning formula improves the feel of the skin during and after showering. One study additionally confirms that the skin is prevented from drying out. One Experimental study: Measurement of skin moisture after use.
This product is vegan which means it doesn't contain any components of animal origin.
Kneipp Relaxing Lavender Body Wash ($6.00 for 2.53 oz. from Kneipp and SkinCare RX): With natural lavender oil, the soap-free and pH balanced formula cleanses gently and leaves skin soft, supple and hydrated. The lavender scent calms the mind, and it fills the shower with its lovely aroma. I also love shaving my legs with this body wash as well.
According to Kneipp,
Lather yourself in nature. Known as the ultimate 'relax time', the clean scent of aromatic Lavender essential oil helps balance body and mind while bringing you back to a state of equilibrium. This soap-free and pH-balanced formula gently cleanses, leaving skin soft and supple. Breathe in...gently cleanse and naturally deodorize while plant essential oils enhance body and mind. Unwind your mind and relax your senses with our aromatherapeutic Body Washes, designed to gently foam, soothe the skin and create a calm, de-stressed experience.
Kneipp Almond Milk & Almond Oil Sugar Body Scrub Soft Skin Indulgence ($22.00 for 7.76 oz. from Kneipp and Kneipp's Official Amazon Store): Needless to say, this aromatic body scrub features one of my favorite Kneipp fragrances, and it is a great pleasure to use for this reason alone. However, there are so many other reasons to love this effective and luxurious exfoliator. This exfoliator is gentle and effective, and it leaves skin soft, smooth, supple and very hydrated. The sugar crystals, which are suspended in a beautiful oil blend, dissolve as you exfoliate them, and they whisk away dead skin cells without over-exfoliation.
According to Kneipp,
Treat yourself and your skin to a gentle exfoliating body scrub blended with almond milk and almond oil for radiant, soft skin. Kneipp's Sugar Body Scrubs consist of a combination of sugar and natural oils, both to remove dead skin cells and also to condition your skin and supply it with moisture. The result is impressively soft skin. A mild, natural exfoliation is suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. The dead skin cells disappear and the blood circulation of the skin and connective tissue is stimulated with the circular motion of applying the scrub. After exfoliating the skin, the care products you use after are absorbed better. Applying our body oils and body creams after a gentle scrub will help your skin retain moisture and radiance. With the sugar body scrub you simultaneously supply your skin with essential fatty acids which help your skin remain soft and supple for hours.
Kneipp Lavender Massage Oil Relaxing ($23.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): If you are seeking a wonderfully relaxing and hydrating massage oil, then this one will be hard to beat. The lavender aroma, which is neither pungent, nor cloying, quiets the mind and leaves you with an overall sense of wellbeing. It absorbs into the skin slowly, assuring greater efficacy without needing to use a tremendous amount of oil. If you have sore muscles from working out, this is one of the most soothing massage oils that I have tried.
According to Kneipp,
This intensely pampering Kneipp Lavender Massage Oil “Relaxing“ with natural lavender essential oil, unfolds its balancing, aromatherapeutic effect on body and mind while massaging. Complete with emollient jojoba oil and almond oil to nourish and naturally hydrate the skin, the massage oil spreads easily and absorbs slowly to allow the maximum benefits of a relaxing massage.
Directions: Apply a thin layer and massage it with gentle pressure in a circular motion.
Kneipp Almond Blossom Massage Oil Soft Skin ($23.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): This lovely, fragrant warm floral, massage oil leaves skin remarkably hydrated and luminous. Like their Lavender Massage Oil, Kneipp formulated this oil to absorb slowly for greater efficacy without needing to use a tremendous amount of oil.
According to Kneipp,
The nourishing Kneipp® Almond Blossom Massage Oil - “Soft Skin” Is easy to spread, absorbs slowly, and intensively emits its pleasant fragrance in particular through the warmth released during the massage. The valuable, very well tolerated almond oil has a particularly high level of essential fatty acids. It provides intensive nourishment to the skin and supports the natural regulation of skin moisture. The special fragrance enchants your senses and ensures pure relaxation. Anyone in ancient Egypt interested in anti-aging did not pass up almond oil. Due to its extremely high oleic acid content, it cares for and protects normal as well as chapped skin prone to flaking and itching and it gives the skin a soft, silky appearance. Almond oil is even very well tolerated by the most sensitive skin.
Directions: Apply a thin layer and massage it with gentle pressure in a circular motion.
Kneipp Body Lavender Lotion Relaxing ($18.00 for 6.76 oz. from Kneipp and Kneipp's Official Amazon Store): This is a lightweight and fast absorbing body lotion that offers the hydration of a heavier cream without having to wait a long time for it to absorb into the skin. The relaxing lavender aroma makes this the perfect moisturizer to use before going to bed for a restful slumber, or any time of day when you seek to relax.
According to Kneipp,
The Kneipp Lavender Body Lotion - "Relaxing" contains high-quality essential lavender oil and a high percentage of natural, intensively caring plant oils. The moisturizing formula with vitamins A, E and panthenol regenerates the skin so that it feels soft and supple. Blended with the beautiful fragrance of Lavender oil and nourishing sweet almond oil, your skin will be left soft and your mind comforted. Suitable for all skin types.
Overall Assessment: If you are seeking some beautifully aromatic body care products to transition into fall, then I highly recommend these wonderful Kneipp gems.
As soon as the weather heats up I love switch fragrances, and I routinely add new fragrant body care products into my daily pampering routine this time of the year. Among my very favorite brands are Molton Brown, Rituals and SENTEURS D'ORIENT, and I therefore decided to select some of my current favorites to share with you. Part of my summertime routine is to reboot my shower by filling it with luxurious scents in which to luxuriate, and therefore I primarily selected an array of cleansers and soaps, but I did include one Eau de Toilette that I have been applying right out of the shower lately.
Molton Brown Heavenly Gingerlily Eau de Toilette ($65.00 for oz. from Molton Brown, Saks Fifth Avenue, John Lewis £39.00 and Selfridges): Described as, "Exotic. Alluring. Escapist," this warm and rich spicy floral is an intoxicating scent punctuated by Tuberose, Lily and Jasmine commingled with spicy top notes of Cardamom, Ginger and Clove. It sits close to the skin, and when it dries down it becomes an exotic and light fruity floral. It is a perfect fragrance for the summer, and I find myself reaching for it all of the time.
According to Molton Brown,
Exotic flora. Black sands. Fragrant spices perfuming the breeze. Escape to Tahitian shores with the enticing aromas of paradise.
This alluring eau de toilette fragrance captures the floral character of tuberose and lily from the body collection. These notes are further enhanced with ginger and real rose oil in the top and middle notes, whilst cardamom balances the fragrance. Cedarwood and noble musks in the base notes ensures the aroma lasts.
Top notes: Cardamom, Ginger and Clove. Heart notes: Tuberose, Tagetes, Lily and Jasmine. Base notes: Cedarwood, Sandalwood and Musk.
Rituals remains one of my all-time favorite bath and body brands, and not only are their products luxurious and delectable smelling, but they are also very affordable.
Rituals The Ritual of Dao Silence 3 in 1 Hand Scrub ($19.00 for 6.7 oz. fromRituals): I am utterly obsessed with this effective cleansing hand scrub– it is gentle enough to use every single day, and yet it has the perfect amount of grit to effectively remove dead skin cells to reveal soft, smooth and supple skin. It has a wonderful White Lotus aroma that is a delight to the senses, but it does not linger very long after rinsing.
According to Rituals,
A luxury hand scrub for daily use, which deeply cleanses, refreshes and softens your hands. Enriched with nourishing oils that are easily absorbed by the skin to restore suppleness and moisture balance. Combines the relaxing fragrance of White Lotus with the nourishing properties of Yi Yi Ren, an ingredient traditionally used in Chinese medicine.
Directions: Step 1: scrub and massage on dry hands Step 2: rinse and dry Tip: designed for daily use.
Rituals Express Your Soul Uplifting Shower Foam in Verbena & Petitgrain ($15.00 for 6.7 oz. from Rituals): This limited edition Foaming Shower Gel has a lovely, uplifting floral citrus aroma from which one detects the the most succulent Verbena. I fell in love with this innovative shower gel formula from the very first moment that I used it. It's an extraordinary take on the ordinary, and for me it makes my bathing experience anything but mundane. The unique gel to foam technology not only makes it immensely fun to use, but it exceeds my every expectation of what a body cleansing gel should do. It cleans beautifully, smells glorious, and leaves the skin lusciously hydrated and soft. Furthermore, the rich dense foamy texture lends itself to being one seriously amazing shaving cream that cleanses, softens, and gives a seriously close shave. My legs have been transformed into the most soft and silky skin imaginable, and this gorgeous product has become my favorite shave cream as well.
According to Rituals, Enjoy the limited edition shower foam. The gentlest shower foam your skin has ever felt, combines the invigorating properties of Verbena with the floral citrus scent of Petitgrain.
Directions: Place a small amount of gel into your hand – in combination with water, the gel changes into a rich, relaxing foam sensation.
Rituals The Ritual of Sakura Caring Shower Oil ($15.00 for 6.7 oz. from Rituals and Spring): is a wonderfully moisturizing shower oil for the body that functions in precisely the same way as the many facial cleansing oils that have recently flooded the market. You simply apply a small amount of oil to your skin and as soon as it has contact with water it emulsifies and turns from an oil consistency to a thin milky emulsion that effectively cleans the skin, and leaves it delectably soft smooth and moisturized. The beautiful scent of Cherry Blossom is a delight to the senses, and fills the air with its lovely aroma. While the scent is lovely it does not linger since it is, for the most part, washed away. Skin is left clean, soft, smooth and hydrated.
According to Rituals,
As part of the Rituals Sakura Collection, celebrate each day as a new beginning with the Ritual of Sakura Shower Oil. Filled with relaxing scents of Cherry Blossom and purifying properties of rice milk, the oil that becomes a silky soft foam when it comes into contact with water will leave your skin beautifully soft and hydrated. This product will prolong your tan. Its intense hydrating properties will reduce pigment loss in the shower meaning you can enjoy your beautifully sun-kissed skin for longer.
Insider's tip: Our Sakura shower oil not only cleanses the skin but gives it an extra delightful treat with a sheer layer of deeply nourishing oil.
Directions: Apply the oil on dampened skin and massage with a rotating movement until it transforms into a silky soft foam, then rinse off with luke warm water.
SENTEURS D'ORIENT Hammam Soap in Oriental Gardenia ($36.00 for 7.2 oz. from Senteurs D'Orient and Net-A-Porter): is the most beautiful soap imaginable. From the gorgeous design of the soap itself to the otherworldly aroma of the gardenia used to make this ultra-luxe bar– this is the most delectable soap in which to luxuriate. The rich and creamy lather gently cleanses the skin without stripping it, while the beautiful aroma delights the senses. I love that this soap is on a rope– since hanging it allows it to dry out between uses. This is the perfect gift for someone you love, or for yourself, and the recipient will be delighted.
According to SENTEURS D'ORIENT,
Turn your bathing ritual into a luxurious, holistic experience with our signature Hammam soap. Each pure vegetal soap is handcrafted by local artisans in Lebanon, air-dried for 10 days, and etched with our elegant filigree. We use a blend of precious essential oils, fine fragrance and moisturizing Olive oil, Vitamin E, Shea butter and Glycerin for beautiful, dewy skin and a relaxed spirit. First cultivated in East Asia, Oriental Gardenia enchants the senses with an irresistible symphony of sweet creamy white petals, crisp green leaves and luscious stems. Created with a blend of Cabreuva and Cedarwood essential oils. Made in our Beirut atelier from the finest natural ingredients, our luxurious products are lovingly handcrafted by artisans. Each of our fragrances captures the Orient’s most treasured flowers and senses to transport your mind and exalt your body.
Naturally dries in different shades of light pink. NO parabens, NO colorants, NO silicones, NO titanium dioxide, NO EDTA, NO tallow.
SENTEURS D'ORIENT donates a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this soap toward the education of women in Lebanon.
Overall Assessment: These are among my very favorite fragrant body care products for the summer, and these three brands are among my most-coveted all year long. DO you have any body care favorites this time of year?
