February 2023 Product Empties for the Face, Body and Hair

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While February was a short month, I still managed to finish up 7 face, body and hair products. I would most happily use all of them again, but I won't likely be repurchasing anything until I have finished more products from each of these products. I am swimming in open bottles, tubes and jars and don't want them to spoil before I use them up. Here is what I finished in February:

Patchology Serve Chilled Bubbly Eye Gels: An effervescent eye gel to help refresh your skin. The eye gels are formulated with resveratrol from grapes along with orange extract to help protect from environmental stressors that can lead to early signs of aging. Niacinamide helps brighten dull under-eye skin. Purchase Again? I still have a couple of packs left, but I would definitely buy these when I finish them. ($15.00-$35.00 from Patchology, Ulta, Nordstrom, bluemercury and Macy's)

LilyAna Naturals Rose & Pomegranate Face Cream: is moisturizer that is very nourishing, gentle and calming. It has a lightweight consistency, and it immediately melts into the skin without leaving behind a greasy residue. It is formulated for all skin types, and it offers superior and sustained moisture. It is so gentle and calming that it is a perfect choice to help heal dry, chapped and peeling skin, and that is certainly appreciated during the cold months of the year. Skin is left comfortable, soft and luminous. It is my go-to choice after I have done an at-home peel and after exfoliation. This face cream does not contain sunscreen, and therefore I use a high SPF sunscreen in addition to this moisturizer. I do not detect any aroma, and therefore it should not bother people who are sensitive to scented skincare products. Purchase Again? I really like this a lot, but I have too many open tubes, bottles and jars of face cream to use before I consider purchasing more. ($29.99 for 1.7 oz from LilyAna Naturals, their Amazon Store, CVS and Walmart)

Arcona Brightening Gommage: is a wonderful facial exfoliator that is good for all skin types. This is, without question, a very good exfoliators. The exfoliating beads are small and in abundant supply, and they effectively remove dead skin cells revealing radiant skin with pronounced clarity and improved tone. It smells and feels amazing, and it lasts a long time. Purchase Again? I have a new tube that I am about to open! ($56.00 for 3.4 oz. from Nordstrom)

NUXE Huile Prodigieux Shower Oil: The aroma, which might be described as a warm nutty floral, is utterly delectable, and its rich and crazy aroma fills the bathroom and delights the senses. NUXE Prodigieux Shower Oil is a lightly lathering and richly moisturizing cleanser that fills the senses with the most delectable rich and warm blend of sweet almond oil, orange blossom, magnolia and vanilla. It has a gorgeous quasi-iridescent glow from the golden pearls that impart a slight golden sheen to the skin. Skin is left hydrated, soft, supple and delicately fragranced. Purchase Again? Without question! ($15.00 for 6.7 oz. from Amazon, and Look Fantastic)

Spongellé Courageous Sugar Crush Body Wash Infused Buffer: makes brilliant body wash-infused sponges that effectively and gently clean and exfoliate the skin, and they 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. Sugar Crush is a delectable and vibrant scent with the following notes: Top: Pomegranate Seed, Custard Apple, Red Berries. Middle: Star Jasmine, Muguet, Cherry Blossom and Base: Sugar Musk, Golden Amber, Vanilla Cream. Purchase Again? I love this scent, but I have other scents that I will use next. ($14.00 from Spongellé)

Typology Hydrating Cleansing Bar with Palmarosa: is a handcrafted face and body bar that is non-stripping, nourishing and thoroughly hydrating. It achieves a very satisfying lather, and it leaves skin remarkably soft, smooth and hydrated. Therefore, it is never drying, and it will not leave skin in the least bit taut or uncomfortable. Furthermore, it has a wonderful light and refreshing Lemongrass aroma that is truly delightful. Purchase Again? YES! ($16.90 for 3.53 oz. from Typology)

Philip B. Oud Royal Forever Shine Conditioner: is the embodiment of a luxe conditioner. The ultra emollient formula, coupled with the delectable scent, makes using this conditioner a supremely enjoyable sensory experience. Like its matching shampoo, Philip B. Oud Royal Forever Shine Conditioner boasts the highly innovative and cutting-edge time-released botanical delivery system that imparts hair with unprecedented moisture and shine over a sustained period of time. While one only needs to leave it on for a minute, I prefer to leave it on for 10-20 minutes for deeper hydration. It infuses hair with lasting moisture, glossiness, bounce, and the delectable scent of pure Oud. Purchase Again? If it ever goes on sale, I will. In the meantime, I have many conditioners to use first. ($38.00-$98.00 for 2oz and 6oz. from Nordstrom and Dermstore)

Overall Assessment: I am happy that I finished 7 products in February, and thankfully I didn't have to toss out anything that was spoiled! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in February? Any winners or duds to report?

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

Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Typology Radiance Serum 11% Vitamin C Review

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Typology Radiance Serum 11% Vitamin C is a very potent Vitamin C serum that helps to fade hyperpigmentation and it transforms dull and listless skin into radiant and glowing skin. The high concentration of Vitamin C, at 11%, makes this serum quite effective. This lightweight serum has a gel texture that melts into the skin and it leaves behind no residue. It has no scent, and therefore will not offend sensitive noses. My skin can be sensitive at times, and this serum wasn't in the least bit irritating. If you have dull skin or hyperpigmentation, then this cruelty-free serum is definitely worthy of your consideration.

Directions: Apply 3 to 4 drops to clean, dry skin each morning and evening. Gently massage into face and neck using circular motions. Then, follow with your moisturizer. For optimal results, we recommend using the vitamin C serum consistently for at least four weeks.

According to Typology,

An active-rich serum to restore radiance to dull and tired skin. Lack of sleep, stress and smoking are known to trigger harmful free radicals, which oxidize the skin cells and create a dull complexion. The high concentration of vitamin C in this serum effectively combats this process.

THE ACTIVES:

Vitamin C (11%): This molecule is highly-prized for its ability to restore radiance, reduce pigmentation spots, and slow down photoaging. Vitamin C also helps stimulate the production of keratinocytes, which are cells present in the epidermis that protect the skin and reinforce its elasticity. It also helps the skin receive more oxygen, leaving it visibly more toned, radiant and soft while reducing the appearance of pores.

Albizia Julibrissin Extract (3%): Also known as the silk tree, this native Asian plant boasts delicate fan-shaped pink flowers. Its extract contains properties known for restoring radiance to the skin. Albizia Julibrissin extract also brings vitality back to fatigued-looking skin caused by glycation and glycoxidation. Glycation is a natural chemical reaction of sugar molecules attaching themselves to the proteins of the dermis. These proteins are then more sensitive to oxidation (glycoxidation) which results in more free radicals, and more fine lines around the eyes. While the phenomenon of glycation is inevitable in any living organism, it can be slowed down by a balanced, less sugary diet and good skincare.

Ingredients: Aqua, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Propanediol, Albizia Julibrissin Bark Extract, Glycerin, Citric Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Carrageenan, Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract, Phytic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Tropolone. 85% naturally-derived.

Overall Assessment: This is a wonderful serum to restore radiance and to fade hyperpigmentation. Typology is a phenomenal French brand that definitely needs to be on your radar!

$17.10 for .50 oz and $29.90 for 1 oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Received.

Typology Antioxidant Face Serum Ferulic Acid 3% + Resveratrol 3%

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Typology Antioxidant Face Serum Ferulic Acid 3% + Resveratrol 3%, which is a hardworking and antioxidant-rich serum, effectively scavenges free-radicals and protects the skin from their damage. Additionally, Ferulic Acid is a potent anti-inflammatory ingredient that really helps to calm the skin. The blend of these two powerful antioxidants is both pragmatic and highly effective, and the result is soft, smooth and radiant skin. The serum has a gel-like consistency that melts into the skin, and it leaves behind no residue whatsoever. Furthermore, there is no detectable fragrance of any sort– therefore, it will not be an issue for people sensitive to fragrances in their skincare products.

According to Typology,

An antioxidant serum to improve radiance, firm skin and fight against premature aging. Pollution, stress and smoking can all cause the development of harmful free radicals, which in turn create dullness and accelerated skin aging. The high concentrations of ferulic acid and resveratrol in this rich antioxidant serum helps fight free radicals for a complexion that's noticeably more radiant and smooth.

Directions: Apply 3 to 4 drops to clean, dry skin each morning and evening. Gently massage into face and neck in circular motions. Once fully absorbed, follow with your usual moisturizer. For optimal results, we recommend to use this serum consistently for at least four weeks. This serum will naturally change color over time. Don't worry, this won't alter its efficacy.

The Actives: 

Ferulic Acid (3%): Derived from rice bran, this organic acid offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin. Each application works to delay skin aging caused by environmental factors. The result? Skin looks brighter, firmer and smoother.

Resveratrol (3%): Derived from Japanese knotweed, an East Asian plant used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. It's a polyphenol that acts on two levels - to prevent the formation of free radicals and neutralize existing ones.

Ingredients: Propanediol, Glycerin, Ferulic Acid, Resveratrol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Aqua (Water), Isohexadecane, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate. 97% naturally-derived.

This product is Made in France. Fragrance-free. Vegan.

Overall Assessment: This is a highly effective, and potent, antioxidant serum that is worth adding to your skincare routine. A+

$40.50 for 1 oz. and $22.40 for .51 oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Typology Organic Rosehip Botanical Oil

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Typology Organic Rosehip Botanical Oil is a cold-pressed oil from certified organic rosehip seeds. It is 100% pure and naturally derived, and it is vegan and cruelty-free. This beautiful single ingredient oil, which is made in France, is an antioxidant-rich healing oil with a high concentration of essential fatty acids. This oil helps fight hyperpigmentation, helps soften the appearance of fine line and wrinkles and it helps heal scars and stretch marks. It is lightweight and fast absorbing and it leaves skin soft and beautifully moisturized. While it can be used anywhere on the body, I tend to use it on my face, neck and décolleté. If you are looking for an effective facial oil, with limited ingredients, then look no further.

According to Typology,

Rich in antioxidants and vitamin A, rosehip oil is known for its prowess against the signs of aging and its regenerative power. It also contributes to the repair and healing of the skin due to its high content of essential fatty acids.

Rosehip oil reduces brown spots associated with photo-ageing. When applied to the body it helps prevent and reduce stretch marks.Promotes skin healing and delays the appearance of wrinkles. This rosehip oil is suitable for all skin types, particularly mature and / or marked skin.

SKIN CONCERNS

- Loss of firmness

- Fine lines and wrinkles

- Scars

- Prevention of pigment spots

- Treatment of stretch marks

Directions: Apply a few drops of rosehip oil to clean, dry skin. Massage using upward circular movements over the entire face without forgetting the neck.

Note: Botanical oils are sensitive to oxidation. We recommend to store them in a cool, dark place, kept sealed in their airtight amber bottle.

Overall Assessment: Typology is just such an extraordinary brand, and each of their products are effective and affordable. This is an exceptional quality face oil, and it is a pleasure to use.

$29.30 for 1 oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Typology Antioxidant Face Moisturizer 5% Vitamin C + Lemon Water

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Typology creates the most fetching products, and they offer an incredible sensory experience each time that I use any of their gorgeous skincare gems. From the moment that I opened Typology Antioxidant Face Moisturizer 5% Vitamin C + Lemon Water, I was struck by the heavenly lemon aroma. It lacks pungency, but is instead soft and refined. This cream is emollient, ultra-nourishing and hydrating, and it effortlessly melts into the skin leaving behind a slight veil of lemon.

This cream leaves my balanced/combination skin silky smooth, soft, supple, luminous and hydrated all day long. It is quite concentrated, therefore I recommend a less is more approach. Furthermore, this wondrous French skincare brand is cruelty-free and they are invested in eco-friendly sustainable practices.

According to Typology,

An antioxidant-rich moisturizer to fight the oxidation process and to even complexion. A daily moisturizer enriched with hydrating vegetable glycerin and vitamin C – a potent antioxidant to fight free radicals responsible for dull skin and early photo-aging.

Directions: Apply a small dab of moisturizer to clean skin each morning and evening, after your serum. Massage gently in circular movements until the cream has fully penetrated the skin.

Precautions: This antioxidant cream is suitable for all skin types. As this product contains essential oils, and Typology recommends that you do not use it while pregnant or breastfeeding, or on children under six years old. 90% naturally-derived.

THE ACTIVES AND THEIR ATTRIBUTES:

Vitamin C (5%): Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals generated by sun exposure, pollution, smoking... Skin is more resistant to external aggressions responsible for its premature aging. Vitamin C also helps stimulate the production of keratinocytes, which are cells present in the epidermis that protect the skin and reinforce its elasticity. It also helps the skin receive more oxygen, leaving it visibly more toned, radiant and soft while reducing the appearance of pores. 

Lemon water: Extracted from pressed lemons, this ingredient is included for its toning and complexion-balancing benefits. Along with mandarin zest essential oil, lemon water also lends this formula its refreshing citrus scent.

Vegetable glycerin: A natural humectant, vegetable glycerin maintains long-lasting skin hydration and leaves it feeling noticeably softer and smoother.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Dicaprylyl Ether, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Water, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, C10-18 Triglycerides, Stearyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sclerotium Gum, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Levulinate, Limonene, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol, Sodium Hydroxide.

Overall Assessment: C'est très magnifique! A+

$31.40 for 50 ml. 1.69 oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Typology Hydrolate Organic Orange Blossom Review

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I know that I have been waxing poetic about everything that I have tried from the wonderful French brand, Typology, but their products really are amazing and affordable! If you happen to love the smell of orange blossoms, then be prepared to be transported– the scent of their Hydrolate Organic Orange Blossom is enough to make you wonder why you didn't know about this gem sooner (at least that's been my response).

You simply apply this antioxidant-rich and hydrating hydrolate to your skin with your fingers or a cotton ball, after cleansing and before your serum or face cream, and it revitalizes the skin and leaves it luminous. The light and watery liquid smells delightful and immediately sinks into the skin.

According to Typology. 

Revives radiance and helps to regenerate the skin. Orange blossom hydrolate is rich in flavonoids. These molecules belong to the family of polyphenols so give it a strong antioxidant powers. It fights free radicals and helps restore radiance to the complexion and illuminate the skin. Orange blossom hydrolate is also recognized for its regenerating properties and helps tone dull and weakened skin.

Features:

- Hydrolate obtained by steam distillation of organic orange blossoms.

- 99% naturally-derived ingredients.

- Vegan and cruelty-free.

Skin Concerns:

- Dull skin, skin lacking radiance

- Devitalized skin

- This orange blossom hydrolate is suitable for all skin types.

Directions: Apply the orange blossom hydrolate to the entire face in the morning and / or evening, using a cotton ball or directly with fingers. Apply to clean skin, before a serum and / or face cream.

Overall Assessment: What a delightful step for my morning and evening routine! 

$13.40 for 3.51 oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Typology 7-Ingredient Micellar Water Review

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Typology 7-Ingredient Micellar Water is a fragrance-free, vegan and cruelty-free micellar water that is gentle enough for all skin types– even sensitive skin. I simply apply a small amount to a cotton ball or pad, and cleanse face until makeup and dirt disappears completely. The result: it leaves my face soft, clean and hydrated. Typology also asserts that you can add a small amount of 7-Ingredient Micellar Water to your hands to massage your face. I haven't yet tried this, but I do plan to since that sounds wonderful.

This beautiful French brand is cruelty-free, elegantly minimalist and they make extraordinary products that are a true pleasure to use. 

According to Typology,

Our micellar water's minimalist, fragrance-free formula is even suitable for sensitive skin.

Dermatologically tested | 96% naturally-derived | Made in France | Fragrance-free | Vegan | Cruelty-Free | Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin | 

Directions: Apply to a cotton pad and cleanse face until makeup disappears completely. You can also add a small amount of micellar water to your hands to massage face.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Poloxamer 184, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Cetrimonium Bromide, Sodium Hydroxide.

Ingredient Attributes:

1. Purified water: This serves as a natural solvent to mix together the other ingredients. It’s been purified to remove all traces of bacteria.

2. Glycerin: derived from rapeseed and sunflower, it moisturizes the superficial layers of the skin.

3. Poloxamer 184: a surfactant that removes makeup particles from the face.

4. Pentylene glycol: derived from cane sugar, it stabilises the formula and moisturizes the skin.

5. Citric acid: derived from corn, regulates the pH of the micellar water so as not to irritate the epidermis.

6. Sodium hydroxide: to avoid any risk of irritation or burns, a cosmetic product must have a pH close to that of the skin. This soda makes the micellar water less acidic and therefore better tolerated by the skin.

7. Cetrimonium bromide: a preservative that blocks the proliferation of bacteria in the water, thus preventing the risk of skin infections.

Overall Assessment: If you are looking for a wonderful micellar water, then I highly recommend this one! A+

$15.80 for 200ml. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Typology Tinted Serum Review

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I have been gleefully testing out numerous products from Typology, and you really must try this first rate cruelty-free French brand. Typology Tinted Serum is a wonderful lightweight tinted serum that is filled with skincare ingredients that pamper and nourish the skin while providing light coverage and a gorgeous natural finish. If you love the no makeup look with a polished dewy finish that enhances, rather than conceals, your skin– then you will absolutely LOVE this tinted serum. This serum is enriched with vitamin C, plant-based squalane and aloe vera, and therefore it hydrates and nourishes the skin while leaving it beautifully radiant. It is suitable for all types of skin.

The Typology Tinted Serum comes in 6 shades, and they even help you pick your shade HERE. If your complexion is between shades, and you need to mix two, then Typology will give you 50% off on your second shade.

I have Type 2: Light which is recommended for light skin with pink or yellow undertones that tans gradually and is prone to sunburns. It blends away and disappears, and leaves my skin looking enhanced and radiant. I actually think that Type 1: Fair is a better match for my skin since it is decidedly cooler in tone, but I think that my perfect shade would be mixing Light and Fair.

According to Typology,

A silicon-free, non-clogging tinted serum for light coverage and a natural no-makeup finish. Formulated with vitamin C for radiance and squalane & aloe vera for deep, long-lasting hydration.

Each tinted serum can offer light coverage for a wide spectrum of skin tones. Our six shades were developed using the Fitzpatrick phototype scale which takes into account factors like skin tone and reactions to sun exposure.

A tinted serum may appear too light or too dark immediately upon application. Wait for it to dry fully to ensure that the shade matches your skin tone. Think of our six shades as a guide. The serum offers light coverage so each shade will in fact work for several different undertones.

Tips for Selecting the Proper Shade:

TYPE 1: Fair with cool undertones. This is for fair skin with freckles that doesn't tan and becomes red in the sun.

TYPE 2 (This is the shade that I have): Light. Recommended for light skin with pink or yellow undertones that tans gradually and is prone to sunburns.

TYPE 3: Medium. This shade is for medium-toned skin with warm or olive undertones, which tans easily but sometimes burns.

TYPE 4: Tan. For dark skin with predominantly bronze undertones that occasionally sunburns.

TYPE 5: Medium dark. This is for light brown skin that rarely gets sunburned and easily tans in the sun.

TYPE 6: Dark. The shade for dark brown skin with naturally cold undertones that rarely sunburns.

Directions: To apply your tinted serum, simply remove the dropper from the vial and press the bulb to withdraw air. Then dip it into the vial, still squeezing the bulb and fully release it to fill it up with the serum. Using a brush or fingers, apply 3 to 4 drops of tinted serum to the skin. Evenly cover the face and neck, starting from the center of your face and moving outwards to avoid any lines. In the evening, remove the tinted serum with our makeup removing oil or micellar water and reusable makeup removal pads.

Typology products are cruelty-free and free from Parabens, Phenoxyethanol, Paraffin Oil and Sulphates.

Overall Assessment: The more Typology products that I try, the deeper I fall in love with this chic brand.

$34.90 for 30ml / 1 fl.oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Typology Hydrating Cleansing Bar with Palmarosa

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I recently began testing some truly wonderful cruelty-free products from, the French brand, Typology. Their classic minimalist aesthetic coupled with their exquisite products is very appealing, and their products are inspirational, and a joy to use.

Typology Hydrating Cleansing Bar with Palmarosa is a handcrafted face and body bar that is non-stripping, nourishing and thoroughly hydrating. It achieves a very satisfying lather, and it leaves skin remarkably soft, smooth and hydrated. Therefore, it is never drying, and it will not leave skin in the least bit taut or uncomfortable. Furthermore, it has a wonderful light and refreshing Lemongrass aroma that is truly delightful.

According to Typology,

This hydrating face and body soap is suitable for all skin types, especially dehydrated skin. Our method of cold saponification to create this soap – plus its high superfats content – makes it particularly soft and nourishing. Keep soap in a dry place between uses, ideally on a well-drained soap dish.

Features:

- A hydrating face and body soap with 8% fatty acids.

- Handcrafted in France. 100% naturally-derived ingredients.

- This product is Made in France. Vegan

Warning: Avoid the eye area, in case of contact rinse thoroughly. Due to the presence of essential oils, this soap is not recommended for pregnant women or children.

Directions: For use on the face or body. First lather soap in the hands and massage skin, avoiding the eyes.

ESSENTIAL OILS:

- Organic palmarosa essential oil: promotes skin regeneration.

- Organic exotic verbena essential oil: cleanses and purifies the skin.

- Organic lemongrass essential oil: adds its fresh citrus scent.

BOTANICAL OILS AND BUTTERS:

- Organic olive oil: calms skin prone to redness.

- Organic coconut oil: soothes and nourishes dry skin.

- Organic sunflower oil: softens and nourishes.

- Organic shea butter: repairs and soothes fragile skin.

Overall Assessment:  This is a magnificent face and body bar, and I can hardly wait to introduce you to more of their wondrous products!

$16.90 for 3.53 oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.