February 2021 Empties Galore!

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Though February is a short month, I managed to use up quite a few products. However, you will note that I disproportionately used up products for the bath more than anything else, and that was largely because I took a lot of baths from December through February. It was cold at night, and after long days on Zoom I sought refuge in a nice therapeutic soak! Here are the products that I finished up in February. 

Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser ($12.00 for 1 oz., $37.00 for 4 oz and $45.00 for 6.76 oz from Suki, Amazon, Birchbox, iHerb and SkinStore): Years ago it was my only daily cleanser, and then I started LSBB and began using a far wider range of products and somehow forgot about who much I loved this gem of an exfoliating facial cleanser. The lovely formula, which has the intoxicating scent of organic lemongrass extract, uses natural sugar to exfoliate the dead skin cells leaving your skin soft and silky smooth. I find it non-stripping and non-drying for my normal/combination skin, but if you have dry skin you would likely want to use it less often. I like to activate the light lather in my hands, which also breaks down some of the sugar, then with the lightest touch I massage it into my skin and rinse thoroughly. I use it a few times a week, and I always look forward to it since it is such a delectable treat to the skin and the senses. Purchase Again? Without hesitation! 

VENeffect Firming Neck & Décolleté Creme ($155.00 for 2 oz. from VENeffect and Dermstore): is a rich and emollient, yet fast absorbing, luxurious cream that was specifically formulated to address the needs of the delicate skin of the neck and décolleté. It has a silky-smooth ultra luxurious texture that is rich enough to impart high levels of moisture, but it leaves behind no greasy residue. It is fragrance-free– therefore those among you with fragrance sensitivities can experience all of the benefits from this cream without being inundated by unwanted fragrance, and it also will not interfere with fragrances that perfume-wearers put on and around the neck and décolleté. Purchase Again? This is a really wonderful cream, but I have several others to use up before I consider buying another.

Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'N' Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Velvet Violet ($27.00 for oz. from Charlotte Tilbury, Sephora, Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale's, Beautylish, Selfridges, Cult Beauty and John Lewis): This is unquestionably one of my most used pencils, and it is one of the most perfect purple eyeliners that I have used. It can be built up for greater pigmentation and saturation, but it can also be worn more sparingly, and therefore less intensely. The formula is creamy and lush, and it doesn't irritate my sensitive eyes. Purchase Again? I already have!

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer ($32.00 from CharlotteTilbury, Nordstrom, Sephora, Bloomingdale's, Bergdorf Goodman, Beautylish, Cult Beauty, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, John Lewis and Net-A-Porter): The formula is lightweight, non-creasing and it adds just a touch of luminescence to optically blur imperfections, dark circles or blemishes without being glittery. It has a nice large spongy applicator tip, and a twist dispenser, but you want to be sure not to over twist otherwise you will waste a lot of product. I apply it right after my eye cream has absorbed, and only need a little to brighten under my eye area. On those days when I get little sleep, and awaken to unsightly dark circles, this concealer does an enviable job concealing them and in giving my eyes a radiant glow. It neither settles into fine lines, nor does it become cakey. Furthermore, it does not dry out the delicate skin under my eyes, and it lasts all day on me. It offers buildable coverage, if you desire added opacity to conceal blemishes or imperfections, and it blends out perfectly. Purchase Again? Absolutely!

Molton Brown Ylang Ylang Body Wash ($32.00 for 10 oz. from Molton Brown, Neiman Marcus, Amazon and Bluemercury): Described as, "Rich, Peaceful. Harmonious," this deep, royal purple body wash is utterly divine. The scent is an elegant, rich and musky Ylang-Ylang that fills the entire bathroom with its otherworldly aroma. It relaxes the mind and body, and leaves the skin silky-smooth and soft. It is, without question, one of my all-time favorite body washes, and it also works very well as a bubble bath. Purchase Again? Absolutely, I love their products, and this one is particularly special.

Mustela Nourishing Cleansing Gel with Cold Cream ($11.99-$14.00 for 10.4 oz. from Mustela, Amazon, Target and Walmart): One might imagine that the inclusion of cold cream would mean that this is a non-lathering cleansing gel, and yet it has the most satisfying creamy lather. It has the same pleasant, warm and creamy aroma, but it is neither cloying, nor too long lasting. It leaves skin soft, smooth, supple and hydrated, and it is never drying or stripping. Purchase Again? I already have another bottle! I am a huge fan of Mustela products, and will continue to purchase from them!

Nectar Bath Treats Bubble Scoops are ice cream scoop shaped bubble baths that are such a delight to use. They come in 7 different scents, of which I have 2 to share. their delectable aromas and luxurious bubble baths are a treat to the skin and the senses. While we are in the middle of the summer, and this may not seem like the perfect season to soak in a warm bubble bath, I have found the opposite to be true. Given that we are in the midst of a global pandemic, I find that anything that soothes my spirit and calms my nerves is quite welcome. I am grateful to have these wonderful bath treats right now, and I am thoroughly enjoying them!

Nectar Bath Treats Peachy Lemon Bubble Bath Scoop Sundae ($20.00 from Nectar USA): The peachy lemon aroma is absolutely delicious, and coupled with the hydrating and creamy bubbles this is such a treat to the skin and the senses. Skin is left soft, smooth and hydrated. Nerves are left soothed and calmed! Purchase Again? Just as soon as I used up my other bath products!

Nectar Bath Treats Lychee Hibiscus Triple Bubble Bath Scoop Sundae ($20.00 from Nectar USA): The sweet and warm floral aroma is so delicious that it embodies the idea of a warm summer breeze carrying floral essences. The rich and creamy lather moisturizes the skin and leaves it soft and smooth. Shut your eyes and enjoy every moment of this luxurious bubble bath, it is dreamy! Purchase Again? Once I finish up my remaining bath products!

Nectar Sparkling Lights Bath Bomb Set was a great holiday gift set that I thoroughly enjoyed. These fizzing bath bombs come in 6 delectable scents that fill the bathroom with their magnificent individual aromas. They were fun to use and they left my skin soft and hydrated. Purchase Again? I wish that I could, but this was a LE set for the holidays, but I managed to use to full boxes (12 bath bombs) between December and February.

Kneipp Joint & Muscle Herbal Arnica Bath Oil ($20.00 for 3.38 oz. from SkinCare RX): If you have sore muscles in need of relief, then this wonderful Arnica Bath Oil offers relief, and the added benefit is that skin is left soft and moisturized. The aromatic Rosemary, Pine and Arnica Oils are warming and uplifting. Purchase Again? I have too many bath oils to use before I purchase more.

Kneipp Relaxing Lavender Bath Oil ($16.00 for 3.38 oz. from Kneipp): 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. Purchase Again? Eventually.

Aromatherapy Associates Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oil ($71.00 for 1.87 oz. from Space NK): is a delectable luxury bath and shower oil that has the soothing aroma of Rosemary punctuated by citrus and Eucalyptus. By simply adding a couple of caps to your bath, or massaging a few drops onto strategic zones of your body (torso, arms etc.) before stepping into the shower– your senses are enveloped by the many benefits of this otherworldly aromatherapeutic experience. It restores a sense of well-being, balances the bond and body, and soothes muscular tension. Purchase Again? At some point because this was such a luxe treat to use! 

Mustela Multi-Sensory Bubble Bath ($6.99- $20.00 for 6.76-25.35 oz. from Target, Amazon, Bed, Bath & Beyond, CVS and Walmart): This bubble bath is super hydrating and it very gentle on even the most sensitive skin. My skin is left clean, soft, smooth and pampered. It has a light and clean aroma that is very pleasant and relaxing, but it is not overwhelming in the least bit. Purchase Again? Definitely!

Olbas Herbal Bath ($9.49 for 4 oz. and $16.99 for 8 oz. from Olbas, and Swanson Health): If you have a cold, then using this in a hot bath will relief a lot of discomfort. It helps open up sinus passages, and gives yo an overall sense of wellbeing. This lovely Herbal Bath has a wonderful foam,  and its invigorating peppermint-eucalyptus aroma awakens the senses and helps to open up sinus passages. Furthermore, it soothes achy muscles and refreshes the senses. You definitely want to make sure to avoid contact with your eyes! Purchase Again? Possibly when I need more bath products.

Phytomer Oligomer Pure Lyophilized Sea Water Bath ($20.58 from Amazon and Phytomer): Phyomer suggests that this soak has "All the benefits of a dip in the ocean in your own home. An ideal opportunity to relax, re-balance and re-energize." I liked how relaxing this was right before bed. Purchase Again? I liked it a lot, but it will be a long time before I consider buying more bath products since I have so many to use up first. 

MaaDisha Neem Enriched Soap5 ($7.00 for oz. from MaaDisha): This is a holistic healing soap that is formulated with Neem and Holy Basil– known for their antibacterial prowess. It is also moisturizing and free of chemicals and artificial fragrances, and can be used on the face and body. I actually used it on my hands, and thoroughly enjoyed using it. Purchase again? I will definitely consider it once I finish up all of the soaps that I have.

Korres Pomegranate Soap: This glycerin-based antiseptic is perfect for people with oily skin, and can be used on the face and body. It never strips the skin, or leaves it taut, but instead leaves it comfortable and thoroughly cleansed. Purchase Again? I would, but I think that it has been discontinued.

Farmhouse Fresh Fluffy Bunny Shea Butter Hand Cream ($15.00 for 2 oz. from Farmhouse Fresh and Amazon): Oh what a lovely hand cream this is! It is rich, ultra-creamy and it effortlessly renders dry hands soft, supple and hydrated. The aroma is a hypnotic blend of mint julep and lavender, and it is utterly scrumptious! Purchase Again? it is at the top of my list after I finish up a few more hand creams.

Diptyque Roses Candle ($36.00-$68.00 for 2.4 oz. and 6.5 oz. from Nordstrom, Diptyque and Space NK): If you love the most refined rose candle imaginable, then you will gleeful the second you smell this gem. Purchase Again? Yes, again and again and again! I love everything about this fragrance and I already have another one that I am just about to light!

Soothe Blackberry Forest Candle ($32.99 from Amazon): Features notes of citrus, blackberry, strawberry, combined with hints of patchouli, amber and sandalwood, and it is an utterly divine soy candle that your mom is sure to treasure. The fruity aroma is tempered by the earthiness of the patchouli, amber and sandalwood, but the freshness and sweetness of the citrus, blackberry, strawberry mitigates the intensity and pungency of the the earthier notes. The end result is the perfect aromatic balance, and the lit its essence fills the air without being imposing or overdone. Purchase Again? Possibly, but I need to burn a few more candles before I can justify buying more.

COCOFLOSS ($9.00 each. Available at Sephora, Credo Beauty and goop): Cocofloss is a very effective dental floss that deeply cleans teeth and is gentle and soothing on the gums. It actually makes flossing something that I look forward to, and it is available in 4 coconut infused flavors: Delicious Mint, Pure Strawberries, Fresh Coconut and Cara Cara Orange. Purchase Again? I just opened another one, and I have an unopened one in reserve. I will definitely purchase more after I finish what I have.

Overall Assessment: I was surprised that I finished up as many bath products as I did, but it was cold and I was taking a lot of baths in February. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in February? Any great finds or duds to report?

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Soothe Calm. Cleanse. Cure. Holiday Gift Set

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

This holiday season, if you are looking to find a special gift for someone who has just about everything, then consider giving the gift of relaxation with the new Soothe Calm. Cleanse. Cure. Holiday Gift Set featuring Sootherapy Healing Bath Salts plus a Massage Gift Card available now on Soothe.com and Amazon.

According to Soothe,

The 3-pack of Sootherapy Healing Bath Salts, also sold as a stand-alone gift (retail $30 at soothe.com), contains all-natural, non-GMO, tropical ingredients such as: exotic Moloka’i & ‘Alaea salts, taro, noni, ginger, raw cane sugar, organic coconut oil and coconut milk. They smell incredible, and leave skin feeling soft, hydrated and nourished! The gift card available in the set, will be valued for a 60 minute massage that can be used in any of the 60+ U.S. markets Soothe serves.

Soothe, the world’s leading on-demand massage service, delivers a licensed, insured massage therapist to your home, office, or hotel, within 60 minutes. It is now available in 70 markets across 4 countries.

The types of massages from which to choose:

Here is how it works:

1) Soothe helps you book a five-star massage to your home, hotel, office, or event in as little as an hour. We match your massage request with a vetted, certified massage therapist available in your area at the specified time. At your appointment time, a therapist will arrive at your door with massage table, fresh linens, lotions, oils, and music to ensure a relaxing massage. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your massage.

2) Soothe connects you with therapists who offer deep tissue, Swedish, sports, and prenatal massage. Any of these modalities can be performed as a couples massage, either with two massage therapists performing simultaneous massage or one therapists performing massage one after another. The therapists also offer chair and table massage delivered to your office or event with Soothe at Work and Soothe Events.

3) Soothe will match you with the highest quality massage therapist available at the time specified. You have the option to choose a male or female therapist if you have a preference, but are not able to select the exact therapist that you’d like.

4) Soothe is very careful about the massage therapists we select to join the Soothe network, "We vet each therapist to make sure they are fully licensed or certified in their practice area. We also verify they are insured by a reputable firm that is well known in the industry. We accept only the highest quality therapists, with only about 1/3 of applicants being accepted on to the Soothe network."

In most states the process to become a certified massage therapist (CMT) requires applicants to successfully pass a background check conducted by a state investigator before being deemed safe to work with the public. All massage therapists on the Soothe platform have passed these government-sponsored certification measures. In order to become a CMT, a therapist must also complete a minimum of 500 hours of practical training, but some states require as much as 1,000 hours.

All of the massage therapists have the highest level of integrity and professionalism. In return, we expect all clients to reciprocate the same level of respect and conduct. (In Canada, all of the therapists are experienced professionals; however, not all are RMTs). For more frequently asked questions, visit Soothe.com

Overall Assessment: This is a great gift idea for that person on your list who has everything!

$180.00 and $230.00 from Soothe and their official Amazon Store HERE and HERE (Affiliate Links).

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2019 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Soothe Blackberry Forest Candle | Review & Special Mother's Day Offer

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Mother's Day is quickly approaching, and I have a wonderful gift idea for your mom! Soothe Blackberry Forest Candle, which features notes of citrus, blackberry, strawberry, combined with hints of patchouli, amber and sandalwood, is an utterly divine soy candle that your mom is sure to treasure. The fruity aroma is tempered by the earthiness of the patchouli, amber and sandalwood, but the freshness and sweetness of the citrus, blackberry, strawberry mitigates the intensity and pungency of the the earthier notes. The end result is the perfect aromatic balance, and the lit its essence fills the air without being imposing or overdone.

According to Soothe,

Hand-poured in Los Angeles, the vegan candle is made of premium grade soy wax, and allows for 50 hours of burn time using all-natural cotton wicks which allow for a clean, non-polluting burn. It comes in a sleek matte black glass jar with lid and a weighted bottom which keeps it from easily sliding across surfaces.

Transform your space into a summer getaway with sweet scents of blackberry, strawberry, and citrus combined with warm notes of amber, patchouli, and sandalwood. The serenity will carry you away with every strike of your match.

 About Soothe,

Soothe the world’s leading on-demand massage service which delivers a licensed, insured massage therapist to one’s home, office, or hotel within 60 minutes.

Special Mother's Day Offer,

In honor of Mother’s Day 2019, anyone who books a Mother’s Day massage through May 4 using Code: LOVEMOM will receive a complimentary Soothe Blackberry Forest Candle which can be shipped to points within the U.S. (note: massage must take place on May 12 to qualify). For more information about Soothe, visit soothe.com or call 833-276-6843.

Dimensions: 3.2’ x 3.7’

Burn Time: 50 hours

Hand-Poured in Los Angeles, CA 

Overall Assessment: This is such a special candle, and a perfect Mother's Day gift idea.

$32.99 from Amazon and Soothe (Affiliate Links).
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2019 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.