lola's secret beauty blog: Skincare

Showing posts with label Skincare. Show all posts

Friday, September 5, 2025

VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 100 & PDRN Essence 100 Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

VT Cosmetics, which is an impressive K-Beauty brand, created Reedle Shot 100, which is touted as microneedling in a bottle. VT’s proprietary natural microneedles stimulate cells inside the skin to facilitate skin regeneration, restore skin health, and help active ingredients reach deeper. VT Cosmetics PDRN Essence 100, which is a hydrating essence, is best used after Reedle Shot 100 for seriously impressive results. The combination of these two outstanding products results in deeply hydrated and nourished skin that looks and feels soft, smooth, supple and rejuvenated.

VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 100, which is nicknamed "microneedling in a bottle", is available in 3 strengths (50, 100, and 300), and it is formulated to enhance the absorption of your favorite skincare products. The end result is healthier looking, and glowing, skin. Reedle Shot utilizes the principle of physical stimulation to your skincare routine by creating a serum formula that mimics the effects of professional microneedling without office visits or recovery time.

When applied to the skin, this essence-like serum causes your skin to experience a gentle tingle, not a stinging or a burning sensation, and then it allows all of your skincare products to sink in faster and deeper.

According to VT Cosmetics,

A next-gen K-beauty microneedling innovation for home use this bestselling formula uses patented bio-spicule technology to dramatically boost skincare absorption for visible results at home. The brand’s proprietary CICA REEDLE™ microparticles work inside the skin (specifically the stratum corneum) rather than just on the surface. These naturally-derived micro needles then stimulate skin cells, increasing the cell activity and accelerating the skin turnover cycle for smooth and healthy skin. The line also contains another key ingredient called CICAHYALON™, which soothes, hydrates, and strengthens moisture retention.

Benefits:

Formulated with CICA REEDLE, which contains micro-sized, mineral-derived particles that help enhance ingredient absorption into the skin.
Gently exfoliates and helps refine the look of pores, leaving skin smooth and revitalized.
Contains Centella Asiatica Extract and low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid to provide soothing and hydrating care.

Key Ingredients and Their Attributes:

Centella Asiatica Extract : Helps absorption and delivers a calming, soothing effect to the skin.
Centella Asiatica Extract: Helps absorption and delivers a calming, soothing effect to the skin.
Triple Hyaluronic Acid: Moisturizes and strengthens the moisture barrier.
Propolis Extract: Provides soothing and moisturizing benefits.

Ingredients: Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Silica, Glycereth-26, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Xanthan Gum, Propolis Extract, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside, Glycine, Serine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Leucine, Alanine, Lysine, Arginine, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Threonine, Valine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Cysteine, Methionine.

Directions: For skin care in the evening, use an appropriate amount on the bare face after cleansing and apply it gently with your fingers. After Reedle Shot 100 is absorbed, apply moisturizing skin care or skin care containing active ingredients to enhance the effect to finish.

VT Cosmetics PDRN Essence 100 is a nourishing and hydrating essence that works perfectly after you apply Reedle Shot 100. This 100% vegan PDRN essence, which is plant-based, absorbs faster than animal-derived alternatives. In fact, it is derived from wild ginseng, instead of fish which is often used, and it boasts an absorption rate 5.5 times more efficient than typical animal-derived alternatives (such as salmon DNA). The consistency, which is best described as a milky serum, melts into the skin instantly leaving it hydrated and glowing with the coveted "glass-skin bounce." It helps to soften the appearance of fine lines and leaves skin soft, smooth, supple and hydrated.

According to VT Cosmetics,

VT Cosmetics PDRN Essence 100 hydrates and nourishes with 100,000 ppm of PHYTO PDRN Panax, made with extract from wild ginseng, this essence supports skin elasticity and hydration. Achieve a radiant, glass-like glow while visibly smoothing and revitalizing skin.

Benefits:

Skin Firming and Elasticity Care: Infused with PHYTO PDRN Panax PDRN derived from wild ginseng, this essence helps support skin resilience and visibly improves the look of elasticity.
Skin Radiance and Natural Glow: Infused with Cerasome Complex Plus and Polyglucuronic Acid, this formula helps create a radiant moisture barrier that supports a healthy-looking glow.
Sensitive Skin Friendly: Unscented and free from irritating or overpowering synthetic fragrances. Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients and Their Attributes:

Pyhto PDRN Panax PDRN: A phyto PDRN extracted from wild ginseng that helps promote healthy-looking, revitalized skin and supports improved firmness.
Cerasome Complex Plus: Helps strengthen the skin barrier and supports the formation of a radiant, moisture-locking film.
Panthenol: Helps soothe irritation, support skin recovery, and maintain a healthy skin barrier.

Ingredients: Water, Isopropyl Myristate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glycerin, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tocopherol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Adenosine, Ceramide NP, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Disodium EDTA, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Allantoin, Squalane, Panthenol, Polyglucuronic Acid, Ceramide AS, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Sodium DNA.

Directions: Morning Routine: After cleansing, apply Mild reedle shot 50 directly to your face, then simply finish with PDRN essence for your glowy skin.

Night Routine: After applying the VT Reedle Shot 100 or 300, apply a generous amount to the entire face. And for the best results, you can finish with PDRN Hydrogel mask for a deeply nourishing night care routine.

Beauty Tip: Use it as a primer before makeup or mix 1-3 drops into your foundation to create a healthy glow and smooth texture.

Overall Assessment: VT Cosmetics demonstrates that luxury skincare products, which are highly effective, can also be affordable. VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 100 & PDRN Essence 100 work brilliantly together, and my skin just seems to sparkle after use.

VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 100 $26.00 for 1.69 oz. from Ulta, Amazon, Olive Young and iHerb.

VT Cosmetics PDR Essence 100 $32.00 for 1.01 oz. from Ulta, Amazon, Olive Young and iHerb.

Friday, August 8, 2025

ANUA 8 Hyaluronic Acid Catechin Calming Pads Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

ANUA 8 Hyaluronic Acid Catechin Calming Pads is yet another huge win for ANUA. This exceptional K-Beauty brand, which makes effective and affordable skincare products, created the perfect skin treat for summer with these calming and cooling pads. These pads, which are infused with Hylauronic Acid, deeply hydrate and nourish the skin. There is an immediate cooling sensation when the pads are applied to the skin, but it isn't an uncomfortable tingle. Additionally, these pads, which are formulated for normal skin types, help to reduce puffiness and they calm irritation. Furthermore, the cooling effect helps to reduce surface heat on the face, and that offers serious relief during the hot weather. Simply wipe a pad across freshly cleansed skin, leave it on for about 10 minutes and then rinse. It is such a refreshing skin pick-me-up, and now an essential summer pick for me.

Benefits: Helps reduce facial puffiness, provides an immediate cooling effect, and refines the appearance of pores.

According to ANUA,

Refresh and prep your skin with this calming toner pad, specially designed to soothe irritation and cool the skin’s surface. Infused with active green tea extract and hydrating botanical ingredients, they visibly reduce puffiness and help reduce skin surface heat. Perfect as a pre-makeup step, this toner pad gently refine your complexion, leaving it soft, smooth, and ready for flawless makeup application.

Experience daily refreshing hydration that instantly cools and visibly reduces puffiness. This lightweight formula adheres smoothly to the skin with a soft, silky finish — locking in moisture while calming heat. Perfectly preps your skin before makeup for a flawless, fresh look.

Formulated to help balance skin’s moisture levels, this pad delivers hydration with hyaluronic acid while providing a calming touch with catechin. Perfect for prepping skin before makeup application.

Infused with caffeine to support circulation and cooling ingredients for an instantly refreshed feel, this pad helps soothe skin that feels overheated—leaving it cool, calm, and revitalized.

Target excess oil and improve the appearance of congested skin with sebum-controlling ingredients. The addition of tannin and a refreshing cooling effect supports a visibly smoother, more refined look.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, Glycerin, Betaine, Diglycerin, Methylpropanediol, Hydroxyethyl Urea, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Panthenol, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Allantoin, Sodium Polyacrylate, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, PVM/MA Copolymer, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract, Dextrin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Azelaic Acid, Bisabolol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside, Ceramide NP, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Squalane, Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Fructan, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Potassium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Glucose, Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate.

Overall Assessment: What a great find for the hot days of summer. These pads are so refreshing and hydrating, and they are such a pleasure to use!

$22.00 for 6.25 oz. (110 pads) from ANUA, ULTA, Olive Young, Amazon and YesStyle (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Friday, March 21, 2025

Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I am such a huge fan of French Pharmacy skincare products, and have been as long as I can remember. Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream is one of my most recent discoveries, and what a discovery it has proven to be.

Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream is rich, nourishing cream that is formulated to restore and protect the skin, and this gentle and fragrance-free formula calms irritated skin, moisturizes dry skin and leaves it supple and luminous. It is a very concentrated cream, and therefore only a small amount is needed to achieve the desired results. It has a cocooning effect as it envelopes the skin, and it feels really wonderful. If you receive your bottle and the cream has separated, and liquid comes out, vigorously shake it for a while so that the ingredients can reintegrate. While I have normal to combination skin, this cream is not too rich for my skin, and during the winter months when my skin was dehydrated, it worked wonders in its ability to restore moisture.

According to Avène,

Avene Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream is a technologically advanced post-biotic restorative skin barrier cream clinically proven to accelerate the recovery process by 4X and maintain an optimal healing environment.

A rich, nourishing cream that provides up to 45 uses while leveraging a unique postbiotic ingredient to promote a healthy microbiome ideal for skin restoration. Clinically proven to restore the skin in 48 hours*. A dermatologist recommended multi-purpose skin barrier solution. Safe for infants, children and adults. Accepted by the National Eczema Association.

Claims and Benefits:

Rich, nourishing skin barrier cream infused with post-biotic restorative ingredient, helps protect skin from external aggressors while maintaining proper hydration.
Formulated to minimize risk of allergic reactions.
Won't clog pores.
Safe for infants, children and adults.
Versatile cream helps promote and maintain healthy, balanced skin microbiome
Helps accelerate the skin recovery process by 4X.*Evaluation of visible reduction in appearance of skin treated with Cicalfate+ vs. nontreated skin.
Suitable for every skin-SOS: It's great as a daily moisturizer and helps restore burns (including sunburn), cuts, scrapes, stiches, bug bites, perioral and diaper areas, and soothes skin prone to redness or dryness.
Suitable for skin that's compromised (aka: sensitive, dry, damages)
Formulated Without: Fragrance, Parabens, Alcohol, Soy, Wheat.

Directions: Apply twice a day to clean, dry skin.

Key Ingredients:

C+ Restore, postbiotic restorative ingredient, is rich in proteins that help skin restoration while preserving skin's natural barrier.
Copper - Zinc Sulfate Complex helps promote and maintain a healthy skin environment.
Avène Thermal Spring Water clinically shown to soothe, soften and calm skin.

Ingredients: Avene Thermal Spring Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Mineral Oil / Huile Minerale, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Zinc Oxide, Propylene Glycol, Polyclugeryl-2-Sesquiisosterate, Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer, Aluminum Stearate, Aquaphilus Dolomiae Ferment Filtrate, Arginine, Beeswax / Cire D'abeille, Copper Sulfate, Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Wax / Xire Microcristalline, Tromethamine, Zinc Sulfate.

Overall Assessment: This is a lovely cream, and I will definitely purchase another tube when I finish this one!

$40.00 for 3.3 oz., $26.00 for 1.3 oz and $12.00 for .5 oz from Avène USA, Ulta, Dermstore, REVOLVE, Amazon, Target, CVS and YES STYLE (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Monday, March 17, 2025

HygieneLab Face Wash Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I was just recently introduced to HygieneLab, a skincare brand that is devoted to, "elevating men's personal care" and I am quite impressed by their products and their philosophy.

About HygieneLab,

Too many brands cut corners with cheap, questionable ingredients to save time and money. We do things differently. Your health comes first. Our formulas are clean, effective, and made with ingredients you can trust—because what you put on your body matters.

Unlike brands that try to make one-size-fits-all formulas, we create products specifically for men—tailored for their skin, hair, and hygiene needs without the greasy feel or overpowering scents.

According to Kramer LaPlante, Founder and CEO, "You should never have to question the ingredients in the products you use every day. We believe in full transparency, clean formulas, and doing what’s right—so you can always trust what you’re putting on your body."

HygieneLab Face Wash is a clean and non-toxic facial cleanser that is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, paraben-free, phthalates-free and sulfate-free. Furthermore, it is EWG Verified and this brand is also vegan! While this brand is made with men in mind, their products can be used by everyone. This cleanser boasts a very gentle and non-irritating formula that cleans skin without stripping it, and instead leaves it lightly hydrated. Ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera and Panthenol hydrate the skin, while Niacinamide and Vitamin C brighten the skin. It has a light lather, but it never strips or irritates the skin. I tested it before handing it over to my husband, and I found that it made my skin look and feel wonderfully clean and hydrated. I hoped that he wouldn't like it, and said I would use it if he opted not to, but no such luck! He loves this cleanser, and said that it makes his skin feel clean, comfortable and hydrated.

According to HygieneLabs,

Introducing our Daily Facial Wash (Unscented) – a refreshing and effective skincare essential for your daily routine. Crafted with a meticulous blend of natural and active ingredients, this face wash is designed to cleanse, rejuvenate, and nourish your skin.

Key Features:

Gentle Cleansing: Formulated to ensure a gentle yet thorough cleansing experience.

Skin Brightening: Niacinamide and Vitamin C work synergistically to promote a bright, even skin tone.

Hydration Boost: Enriched with Aloe Vera, Panthenol, and Sodium Hyaluronate, providing deep hydration and maintaining skin moisture.

Skin Soothing: Phytic Acid to ensure a soothing effect, leaving your skin feeling calm and refreshed.

Ensuring clean and effective ingredients is our #1 priority. Every product carries the seal of approval from the rigorous EWG verification process, guaranteeing clean and safe formulations.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (Plant-Derived), Niacinamide, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Panthenol, Phytic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C).

The brand believes in clean ingredients and transparency:

Overall Assessment: This is a wonderful cleanser, that can be used by anyone– not just men. It is gentle, effective, satisfying to use, and it leaves skin soft, smooth and hydrated. A+

$25.00 for 5 oz. from HygieneLab and their Amazon Store (Affiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Monday, July 29, 2024

Vitabrid C¹² Half-Year Summer 50% Off Sitewide Sale

PSA (Affiliate Links)

If you are a fan of Vitabrid C¹² skincare products, as am I, then you will be delighted to learn that the Vitabrid C¹² Half-Year Summer 50% Off Sitewide Sale is on now!

Award-winning K-beauty brand Vitabrid C¹² is thrilled to announce an incredible site-wide sale offering 50% off on all products. Offering free shipping, all orders over $40 will also receive (2) free gifts with purchase - 1.2g FACE Brightening and 100ml Scalp+ Shampoo. The sale will run from July 23 - 31, 2024, giving beauty enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to stock up on their favorite skincare and haircare essentials at unbeatable prices.

About Vitabrid C¹²,

Vitabrid C¹² has revolutionized the beauty industry with its proprietary Vitamin C technology, which ensures Vitamin C's stability and efficacy. This is all possible because of the brand’s star ingredient Vitabrid CG (12-Hour Vitamin C™). As a result, active and stabilized Vitamin C continues to go into your skin for 12 hours, scavenging free radicals and providing antioxidant effects throughout the day. This one-of-a-kind delivery system allows for prolonged benefits, providing users with radiant, youthful, and glowy glass skin. When used on the scalp, Vitabrid CG contributes to overall scalp health, diminishing the appearance of hair loss and promoting thicker, fuller looking hair.

Visit: https://vitabrid.com

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

APRIL 2024 EMPTIES FOR THE FACE, BODY, HAIR & HOME

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

It is hard to believe that the month of April came and went alarmingly fast, and I was so busy at work that I feel as though I barely took in the month! I managed to finish up 12 products– of which 10 were full-size and the remaining two were deluxe samples.

Spongellé Enchanted Night Body Wash Infused Buffer (Was $18.00, but it was a seasonal limited edition buffer for Halloween from Spongellé): The scent of this Halloween inspired buffer is a wonderfully deep and alluring aroma that is citrusy punctuated by a warm and musky base. It is utterly delectable. I wish that they still had this one available! Purchase Again? I would, but I am happy with the scent I just opened!

Spongellé He'e Berry Hawaiian Body Wash Infused Buffer ($22.00 from Spongellé): This delectable scented buffer is the embodiment of Hawaii, and it makes a great gift. They make 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. They really excel in their ability to clean and exfoliate the skin while delighting the senses with their delightful aromas.

You simply dampen the Spongellé Body Wash Infused Buffers with water to activate the very satisfying lather. Each sponge is filled with enough body wash for a minimum of 20 washes, but I always get more washes from each of their buffers. Once you have used up all of the body wash, the sponge itself is left quite intact, and therefore all you need to do is use it in conjunction with your favorite liquid or bar soaps. The hanging ribbon allows the buffer to dry out easily, but I recommend hanging it outside of the moist environment of the shower to avoid bacterial growth. Purchase Again? I just opened another scent!

Bootleg Bath Salted Margarita Bath Bar ($9.95 for 4.4 oz. from Bootleg Bath and their Amazon Store): This is a mildly exfoliating bar that leaves skin soft and smooth without stripping it. This handcrafted bar has a deletable citrus aroma that is an uplifting treat to the senses, and it is a perfect gift for yourself and the people on your holiday gift list. Purchase Again? I definitely will!

The Bootleg Bath Growth Formula Conditioner Bar ($16.95 for 1.76 oz. from Bootleg Bath): is a hair conditioner that is formulated to stimulate hair growth and scalp health. This nourishing, and antioxidant-rich, conditioner nourishes and moisturizes the hair and scalp without leaving the hair limp or greasy. I do not have their matching shampoo that works in tandem with this conditioner, but I will say that my hair looks and feels nourished, frizz-free and very well conditioned when I use this conditioning bar. I can't detect any additional hair growth to substantiate those claims, but I assume that I would need to use it much longer and in conjunction with the shampoo bar from this collection. Purchase Again? Not likely because I currently have far too many open hair conditioners.

MyKirei by KAO Onsen Therapy Soothing Steam Eye Mask ($15.00 for a 5-pack from MyKirei and their Amazon Store): is a very easy-to-use eye mask that utilizes a unique mineral-based warming technology that "enhances calm and relaxation and promotes a more restful night’s sleep while reducing the look of puffy eyes." The scent, Japanese Hinoki, is a delectable combination of a bright citrus aroma combined with cedar wood and evergreens.

The mask bathes eyes and the delicate eye area in warm steam. The mask remains at a comfortable temperature for about 10-15 minutes, and this steam bath for the eyes helps release the tensions of the day, reduces puffiness and it effectively soothes and quiets the mind. This is the perfect before bedtime treat, and it is a wonderful way to pamper yourself during stressful times, or whenever you want to relax and unwind. Purchase Again? I still have a few masks left, but I suspect I will buy more when I finish all of them.

LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Pure Vanilla ($12.00 for 2 oz. from LAVANILA, Amazon and Target): This is a wonderful healthy deodorant formula that is effective, smells delicious and offers long-lasting protection. 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? I already opened another one!

Stark Skincare Eclipse Enzymatic Cleanse + Mask ($35.00 for 4 oz. from Stark Skincare and Boxwalla): This lovely gel cleanser, which has a very slight foam, can be used as a traditional cleanser, or as a mask. It boasts a base of Aloe juice that is punctuated by fruit sugar-based Alpha Hydroxy Acids that gently exfoliate without ever stripping the skin. It has a delectable aroma that is informed by cardamom, but it isn't in the least bit overpowering. This antioxidant-rich cleanser leaves skin beautifully exfoliated, hydrated, renewed and glowing. Purchase Again? I would definitely entertain getting it again, but not until I use up more of my open facial cleansers.

Annmarie Aloe Herb Cleanser ($31.50 for 50ml and $58.00 for 100ml from Annmarie Skin Care and their Official Amazon Store): is a lightweight and creamy Aloe Vera-based cleanser that thoroughly cleans the skin and leaves it soft, smooth and hydrated without feeling greasy or stripped. While it doesn't lather, it also lacks the heaviness of a cream cleanser. Instead, it behaves like a gel cleanser that washes clean. It has a wonderful light aroma informed by citrus, floral and herbal ingredients, and it is best described as pleasant and refreshing. It leaves my skin thoroughly cleansed and luminous, and it as effective as it is gentle. Suitable for all types of skin. Purchase Again? I have a full size bottle that I just opened!

TATCHA The Rice Wash Soft Cream Cleanser ($50.00 for 8 oz., $40.00 for 4 oz. and $18.00 for 1.7 oz from TATCHA, Amazon and Sephora): This is an effective foaming cream cleanser that gently exfoliates dead skin cells and washes away dirt and makeup without stripping. Skin is left a soft and with a lovely luminosity. I had this in my travel bag and used every last drop! Purchase Again? While I have so many open cleansers, this is at the top of my purchase list!

Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Fig ($34.00 each from Victoria Beckham Beauty, Nordstrom, bluemercury, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman): Victoria Beckham Beauty is a cruelty-free brand, and the liners are infused with Vitamin E, hydrating pro-vitamin B5, and calming chamomile. They are quite kind and gentle to sensitive eyes like mine, and they can also be used on the waterline and for tight-lining. The colors are spectacularly beautiful independently, but they can also be blended to soften or intensify the lighter and darker shades, respectively. Fig is a rich matte aubergine, and it is a real showstopper. Purchase Again? YES, it's gorgeous!

Archipelago Botanicals Jar Candle in Peppermint (Was $32.50 from Archipelago and Nordstrom): was a holiday-perfect candle that is made with a blend of essential oils and wax housed in an elegant glass container. This ultra-luxe candle is the aromatic embodiment of the holiday season. Rather than an ordinary peppermint, this gorgeous blend of peppermint bark, mint leaf and chocolate creates a delectable mouthwatering aroma that fills the room with its comforting scent. Purchase Again? I would, but it was a limited edition holiday fragrance. I hope that they offer it again during the holidays this year!

Spongellé Morning Bloom Private Reserve Candle ($40.00 from Spongellé): The fresh scent boasts a gorgeous citrus aroma that is mixed with musk, intoxicating florals and a touch of spice. It is a wondrous candle that fills the room with its magnificence without overly exerting itself. The healthy hand-poured soy candle is made in Los Angeles and it burns for about 50 hours. This luxe candle is an elegant show-stopper that comes in a beautiful gift box that is almost too pretty to recycle! Purchase Again? I am currently burning another one of their wonderful candles, and will definitely try another one soon!

Overall Assessment: I am quite please with the number of empties that made it into my recycle bin, and hope that I can do as well next month! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return to sender in April? Did you make any incredible discoveries, or perhaps you experiences some overhyped duds? Do tell!

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

Thursday, February 1, 2024

Curél Anti-Wrinkle Hydrating Serum Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Curél Anti-Wrinkle Hydrating Serum is a gift to my dehydrated skin this winter. The cold outdoors immediately followed by the heated 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.

According to Curél,

This lightweight serum provides a gentle, anti-wrinkle solution for those with dry, sensitive skin. Infused with ceramides to continuously provide & sustain visible moisture, and ginger root extract, known to reduce the visible signs of aging.

Claims:

REDUCES APPEARANCE OF WRINKLES - This lightweight serum helps reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles caused by skin dryness.

REPLENISHES YOUR CERAMIDES - Replenishes and protects natural ceramides, leaving your skin feeling firm and moisturized.

FRAGRANCE FREE SERUM - This pH balanced, lightweight serum is fragrance free, colorant free and free from drying alcohol.

GREAT FOR DRY SKIN - Absorbs quickly, delivering intensive moisture to dry and sensitive skin.

JAPANESE BEAUTY - Curel is the top skin care brand in Japan.

Directions: Apply gently over the whole face, especially to areas with dryness and wrinkles. For best results, use after Curél Hydrating Water Essence and follow with either the Curél Moisture Facial Milk, or Curél Intensive Moisture Facial Cream.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua, Glycerin, PEG-32, Cetyl-PG, Hydroxyethyl, Palmitamide, Dimethicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Behenate, Butylene Glycol, Allantoin, Phytosphingosine, Glutamic Acid, Polyquaternium-52, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Methylparaben.

Overall Assessment: This is such an effective and affordable find.

$20.60 for 1.3 oz from Amazon (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

HH Science Happy + Healthy Essentials Hydrating Body Collection Gift Set

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

HH Science Happy + Healthy Essentials Hydrating Body Collection Gift Set, which is currently on sale, features four of their best-sellers, and it is a perfect way to become acquainted with this dermatologist-created brand. The set comes in a charming gift box, and it features full-size products, including the Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Body Wash, Hydrating And Cream, Hydrating Body Lotion and Lip Balm.

According to HH Science,

We carefully select the most effective combination of high concentration active ingredients with an innovative delivery system that reaches deeper into the skin. All products are dermatologist tested and approved for daily care and to complement aesthetic procedures. All HH Science products are PH balanced, cruelty-free, chemical paraben free, non-comedogenic, and do not include toxic, harmful or irritating ingredients. Made in the USA by an FDA-approved facility.

Whatever your skin type, whatever your skincare goals, our Healthy + Happy Essentials™ line has you covered! We use gentle yet effective formulas to deliver unmatched results for healthy + happy skin. To make it even easier, we have curated gift sets by collection to ensure you have all of your daily skincare essentials for your skin type- perfectly packaged in a gift box sure to make everyone on your list smile!

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Body Wash (Full Size. 8 oz. $14.99): This gentle body wash, which is fragrance, and soap-free, forms a lather that thoroughly cleanses the skin without stripping or drying it. Infused with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, this hydrating cleanser helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier during and after your shower.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta Glucan, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sodium PCA, Cholesterol, Glycerin, Phytosphingosine, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide.

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Body Lotion (Full Size. 8 oz. $15.99): This lotion is lightweight, fast-absorbing and very hydrating. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid this lotion retains hydration, quenches dehydrated and sensitive skin, and leaves it soft, smooth and supple. Their proprietary plant-powered Skin Nourishing Blend with ceramides, and soothing shea butter nourishes and moisturizes even the most dehydrated and dry skin.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Tocopherol, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin.

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Hand Cream (Full Size. 4 oz. $12.99): This rich cream has a silky-smooth texture, and it nourishes, moisturizes and leaves hands ultra-soft. Formulated with soothing botanical ingredients, Aloe, Sunflower Oil, and Shea Butter, it will help to nourish and hydrate your skin.

Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Aqua (Water), Isopropyl Palmitate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin.

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Lip Balm (Full Size. 0.15 oz. $4.99 value): This natural lip balm is formulated with organic ingredients that are great for hydrating sensitive skin like lips. Beeswax is added to help protect and retain moisture, in addition to vitamin-rich oils to create a simply nourishing and natural lip balm.

Ingredients: Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Beeswax, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Tocopherol Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.

Overall Assessment: This set is perfect for pampering the skin during this cold holiday season.

$44.99 (regularly $53.96) from HH Science (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Facial Collection Gift Set

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Facial Collection Gift Set, which is currently on sale, features four of their best-sellers, and it is a perfect way to become acquainted with this dermatologist-created brand. The set comes in a charming gift box, and it features full-size products, including the Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Facial Cleanser, Hydrating Facial Cream, Hand Cream (with bonus pump), and Lip Balm.

According to HH Science,

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Facial Cleanser ($16.99 for 8 oz.): This low-lather, and creamy, hydrating cleanser nourishes the skin and leaves it soft, smooth and supple. It neither dries, nor irritates the skin, and its ingredients pamper and hydrate even the most dry and dehydrated skin. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides + infused with HH Science's proprietary Skin Nourishing Blend, "this gentle cleanser effectively washes away dirt and oil while supporting the natural moisture barrier and keeping the skin in perfect balance."

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Decyl Glucoside, Squalane, Glycerin, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Phytosphingosine, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide.

HH Science Healthy + Happy Essentials Hydrating Facial Cream ($17.99 for 2 oz.): This is a lightweight and emiollient cream that is non-greasy and ultra fast-absorbing. It deeply hydrates the skin and retains the hydration throughout the day. It is formulated with Hyaluronic Acid that retains hydration and plumps fine lines, and watermelon extract since it is known to boost radiance. HH Science's plant-powered proprietary Skin Nourishing Blend™ utilizes soothing shea butter to "improve the quality of sensitive, dry skin over time." Skin is left soft, balanced and radiant.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Dimethicone, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vegetable Collagen, Tocopherol, Sodium Phytate, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide.