May 2026 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

I managed to finish up 9 products in the month of May, and only one was travel size bottle. I should state that all of these products, except for the hand soap, had been open for some time, and all of them were quite well-used before I pulled them to finish them up in the month of May. In an effort not to waste products, I routinely check expiration dates and target products that are more than half empty. Wasting products bothers me a lot, and therefore I really try to avoid tossing things out because they expired and I simply didn't get around to using them before they turn bad.  

ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil Mild ($20.00 for 6.75 oz. from Ulta, Stylevana, Target, Walmart and Anua's Amazon Store): The Mild version is non-comedogenic and it only contains only 11 ingredients, and ANUA increased the amount of heartleaf extract (20,000ppb) to soothe the skin. This cleansing oil is appropriate for all skin types, including very sensitive skin. It emulsifies when in contact with water, and if effectively removes dirt, makeup and it helps to eliminate blackheads and whiteheads. This is a really effective cleansing oil that really does what it claims, and it is nice that it is formulated to address the needs of sensitive skin. Purchase Again? I just opened a different one of their cleansing oils.

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum ($72.00 for 1.01 oz. from Vitabrid C¹² and Amazon): This wonderful antioxidant-rich serum offers skin incredible hydration and protection from free-radical damage. It boasts a blend of novel peptides that help boost collagen production, and the result is the appearance of firmer skin and plumped fine lines. Their antioxidant formula, which is infused with Niacinamide, Bisabolol and Citric Acid, helps to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation. The serum is mid-weight, fast absorbing, non-sticky and fragrance-free, and it leaves my skin soft, supple, smooth and incredibly luminous. Purchase Again? I just opened another bottle.

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Cream ($70.00 for 1.69 oz. from Vitabrid and Amazon): This is a mid-weight rich cream that melts into the skin, and the Shea Butter delivers serious moisture. Stabilized Vitamin C helps to even skin tone and lighten hyperpigmentation, and the novel peptides help plump fine lines leaving the skin smoother looking in appearance. This ultra-luxe, and velvety-textured, cream is such a pleasure to use and it makes skin look and feel exquisite. While I do not have wrinkles, I do have some fine expression lines, and this cream has definitely softened their appearance. There is no fragrance, and therefore people who are sensitive to fragrant skincare products will not have any problems with this cream in that regard. Purchase Again? I just opened another jar!

Vichy Normaderm 3-in-1 Micellar Solution ($19.99 for 6.76 oz. from Amazon, Ulta, CVS and Dermstore): Discontinued, but Pureté Thermale 3-in-1 Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin is even more impressive. It actually feels the same to me, and thankfully this gentle micellar water is widely available. It gently removes makeup and dirt and leaves skin soft and clean. Purchase Again? I will continually repurchase the Pureté Thermale 3-in-1 Micellar Water!

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

milk_shake cool brunette shampoo ($28.00 for 10.1 oz, $10.00 for 1.7oz. from milk_shake, Beauty Plus Salon and Amazon): If you have brown hair and need to neutralize red & orange tones to maintain cool brown hair, then this dark blue pigmented shampoo will reduce that unwanted warmth and brassiness. Purchase Again? I would definitely get this again, but I have another brand to finish first.

Saints & Sinners Velvet Divine Daily Conditioner ($38.50 for 8.5 oz from Amazon): First I have to say that the aroma of this conditioner is delectable, and if I had to describe it I would say that the jasmine and tuberose are the most legible of the scents.  The aroma does linger for a while before fading altogether. This mid-weight conditioner is very emollient and moisturizing without weighing hair down or leaving behind a greasy film. It effectively fights frizz and fly-aways, moisturizes dry hair and leaves it shiny and manageable. It is a wonderfully effective conditioner for my color treated naturally curly hair. Purchase Again? I would love to use this again, but I have many bottles of conditioner to use first.

Trader Joe's Bergamot & Vetiver Scented Hand Soap, ($3.99 for 12 oz. from Trader Joe's):  What an absolute delight this is. In fact, I went back to buy 3 more bottles. This beautiful citrusy floral scent is such a treat to the senses, and rather than drying out my hands, they are left lightly moisturized. The last time that I went to the same Trader Joe's they didn't have any left, but I plan to try again to get a few more bottles before they are gone altogether. I hope that there is enough demand for this lovely liquid hand soap that Trader Joe's considers making it part of their regular collection of hand soaps! A+ Purchase Again? In a heartbeat! I check to see if there are any bottles left every single time that I go to TJ's, and I think that they are gone for good.

Goldfaden MD Body Surge Hydrating & Restoring Body Moisturizer ($65.00 for 5 oz. from Goldfaden MD Amazon Store, IPSY and eCosmetics): This ultra-luxe, creamy moisturizer is mid-weight, and yet it melts into the skin immediately. It leaves skin deeply moisturized, soft, supple and luminous without a greasy residue. Skin looks restored and dry and parched skin is healed and hydrated. It has a light and refreshing citrus aroma, but it is neither imposing, nor long-lasting. Furthermore, it is cruelty-free, silicone-free, gluten-free, mineral oil-free, paraben-free and alcohol-free. Purchase Again? I have lots of open bottles and tubes of body lotions and creams that I need to use first, but I would very happily use this ultra-luxe moisturizer again!

Overall Assessment: I really liked all of these products a lot, and would happily use each of them again. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in May? Any great discoveries, or over-hyped duds to report?

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

Copyright © 2026 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

September 2025 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

I am rather surprised that I managed to finish up 11 items in the month of September, though admittedly many of them had very little left in their containers. Therefore, it required little effort to finish up many of them. Of the 11 products, only one was a travel size, and the rest were full-size.

Trader Joe's Lavender Chamomile Hand Soap ($3.99 for 17 oz. from Trader Joe's):

If you are sensitive to aromatic hand products, and prefer unscented or fragrance-free, then you will want to skip these. However, if the thought of a lovely and refreshing citrus or lavender scent sounds perfect for you, then Trader Joe's Lavender Chamomile Hand Soap is definitely worthy of your consideration. It produces a satisfying lather, and yet it neither strips, nor dries out the hands. It doesn't overpower with the potential pungency of lavender because it is tempered by the chamomile, and it is uplifting, pleasant and delightful. Hands are left soft, nourished and lightly hydrated. Purchase Again? On my next trip to Trader Joe's!

Bisous de Provence Lemon Verbena Triple Milled Soap ($3.99 for 7 oz. bar from Trader Joe's): If you love high quality French milled soaps, and you don't want to spend a fortune, then you really must try this beautiful soap from Trader Joe's. This luxurious, and delectably scented soap, which is made in France, costs a mere $3.99 for a 7 oz. bar. It boasts a wonderful rich lather, it smells utterly divine and it makes an overall excellent hand soap or body bar. If you shop at Trader Joe's, I highly recommend trying this wonderful bar! Purchase Again? On my next trip to Trader Joe's!

Spongellé Hand Cream in French Lavender ($21.00 for 2 oz. from Spongellé):  Spongellé Hand Creams are the perfect antidote for dry hands, and I have used their hand creams for quite a few years now. Spongellé Hand Creams are available in 8 delightfully fragrant scents, and they offer serious hydration. They feature ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Argan Oil and Macademia Seed Oil that deeply moisturize and heal chapped hands, and the Hyaluronic Acid retains moisture and plumps fine lines. After using these hand creams, my poor chapped hands are left soft, smooth, nourished, hydrated and luminous! French Lavender notes: Top: Hesperides. Middle: Tea Rose, Amber. Base: Lavender Tea, Spicy, Woody. Purchase Again? I have other scents from them, but I would definitely buy this again in the future.

Herbatint Permanent Haircolor Gel in Light Golden Chestnut 5D ($17.49 from Herbatint, Amazon, iHerb, Walmart and Swanson):  For many years I used drugstore brand at-home hair dyes, but the last couple of times that I did I noticed that my scalp became dry and irritated. I decided to try something a little different, and I kept seeing Herbatint Permanent Hair Color Gel, and I decided to try it. This Italian brand, founded in 1970, is cruelty-free, vegan and it has a wide range of colors from which to choose. I have naturally curly dark brown hair that naturally lightens up in the summer, and therefore during the cooler months I tried their Light Chestnut 5N, and for the summer I tried their Light Golden Chestnut 5D, and both are stunning shades.

I mixed the hair color gel and the developer until it became a thick gel that was uniform in color. I carefully brushed it from roots to tips and then left it on for 40 minutes. This formula was tested on sensitive skin, and it definitely did not irritate, burn or tingle my scalp. I rinsed it out after 40 minutes and then applied their wonderful Royal Cream Conditioner– which comes with the hair color. This conditioner is lightweight and yet incredibly emollient and moisturizing. When I was done my hair was uniformly a gorgeous chestnut shade, but it was darker than on the box since my hair was quite dark to start with. 

This formula neither dries out my scalp, nor my hair, and the color lasts for a few months before I need a touch up.

Herbatint encourages mixing shades to customize your hair color, and they also suggest that you can mix up just a small amount if you only need to do root-touch up. Whether you have any grey hair you seek to cover, or just roots that differ from the rest of your color, then just doing a root touch-up makes a lot of sense. I don't have much grey hair, but there are some strands here and there, and this does an excellent job of covering them. Purchase Again? I have two more boxes, but will definitely purchase it again!

Kérastase Paris Discipline Fondant Fluidealiste ($50.00 for 6.8 oz. from Kérastase Paris, Amazon, Sephora): Smooth-in-motion conditioner makes hair extremely soft to the touch. This is a fantastic daily conditioner that leaves hair moisturized, soft, smooth, shiny and manageable. It fights frizz, nourishes the hair and gives it a lovely shine! Purchase Again? This is one of my all-time favorite conditioners, and I will eventually buy it again, but right now I have too many open conditioners to buy another one.

JR Liggett’s Original Formula Conditioner Bar ($14.99 for 1.75 oz. from JR Liggett's, Amazon, iHerb): This bar conditioner is moisturizing and frizz-fighting, but it doesn't weigh down hair or leave behind an oily residue. Hair is left soft, smooth and manageable, and it has a wonderful natural herbal aroma that is thoroughly pleasant and uplifting. Purchase Again? I would definitely use this conditioner again, but as I said above, I have far too many open conditioners to buy any for quite a long time.

OUAI Wave Spray ($30.00 for 6 oz. and $16.00 for 3 oz. and $28.00 for 4.9 oz. from OUAI, Sephora and Ulta): This is a wonderful non-sticky spray for effortless looking beachy waves. It has a weightless texture, it doesn't flake or make hair crunchy, s I run out.and it is suitable for all types of hair. While I have curly hair, this wonderful spray offers my hair touchable hold and enhances my curls. Purchase Again? YES, I  will definitely purchase a full size bottle!

Y'OUR Skin Night Cream (Available from Y'OUR Skincare and their Amazon Store): If you looking for a personalized skincare routine, then it is worth becoming acquainted with Y'OUR Skincare. I tried their custom skincare several years ago, and since that time they have reformulated their products. While thick and emollient, this night cream is remarkably lightweight and fast absorbing. It has a lovely texture that melts into the skin without leaving behind a greasy and unpleasant residue. After use, my skin is immediately soft, smooth, supple and ultra-moisturized. It is fragrance-free and it has no detectable aroma, whatsoever. Purchase Again? I have far too many open creams and lotions to justify purchasing more, but I really like this night cream a lot.

Y'OUR Skin Day Cream with SPF (Available from Y'OUR Skincare and their Amazon Store): This daytime face cream is lightweight, emollient and fast absorbing. It nourishes and moisturizes my skin all day long, and it leaves behind no greasy residue. It is fragrance-free and has no detectable aroma, and it leaves my skin soft, smooth and supple. Since it contains a sunscreen, I can skip an additional sunscreen. Though I still carry a sunscreen with me to reapply throughout the day. Purchase Again? I have far too many open creams and lotions to justify purchasing more, but I really like this day cream a lot.

Olivia Umma Glass Skin Strawberry & Tangerine Serum ($48.00 for 1.35 oz. from Olivia Umma, Amazon and Urban Outfitters):  is a Vitamin C serum that is made from strawberries and tangerines, and therefore it is rich in vitamins A, B and E. This serum is formulated to brighten and revitalize the skin, and therefore to help improve your skin tone. The serum has a lightweight gel-like texture that immediately melts into the skin without leaving behind a sticky or greasy residue. It has a very faint  fruity aroma, but it is neither assertive, nor long lasting. It leaves my skin brightened, luminous and hydrated. Purchase Again? I loved using this, and would happily use it again, but I need to use more of my open serums first!

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum ($72.00 for 1.01 oz. from Vitabrid C¹² and Amazon): This wonderful antioxidant-rich serum offers skin incredible hydration and protection from free-radical damage. It boasts a blend of novel peptides that help boost collagen production, and the result is the appearance of firmer skin and plumped fine lines. Their antioxidant formula, which is infused with Niacinamide, Bisabolol and Citric Acid, helps to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation. The serum is mid-weight, fast absorbing, non-sticky and fragrance-free, and it leaves my skin soft, supple, smooth and incredibly luminous. Purchase Again? I just opened a new bottle, it really is that good!

Overall Assessment: I somehow doubt that I will be able to use up this many products in October because I am currently using lots of products that are quite full, but who knows! What dod you use up, toss out, give away or return in September? Any serious discoveries or duds to report?

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links). Available all views expressed are categorically my own.

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

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum & Wrinkle Cream: A Beautiful and Mighty Pair

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

While there isn't a magic elixir that will turn back the hands of time and transform you from 40 to 20 again, there are nice serums and creams that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Two such products, from Vitabrid C¹², definitely help, and while they reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, they simultaneously nourish, moisturize and protect the skin against free-radical damage. For me, this wonderful K-Beauty brand is tried and true, and I reach for their effective products every single day! Each of these products can be used separately, but they are even more effective when used together.

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum ($72.00 for 1.01 oz. from Vitabrid C¹² and Amazon): This wonderful antioxidant-rich serum offers skin incredible hydration and protection from free-radical damage. It boasts a blend of novel peptides that help boost collagen production, and the result is the appearance of firmer skin and plumped fine lines. Their antioxidant formula, which is infused with Niacinamide, Bisabolol and Citric Acid, helps to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation. The serum is mid-weight, fast absorbing, non-sticky and fragrance-free, and it leaves my skin soft, supple, smooth and incredibly luminous.

According to  Vitabrid C¹²,

This exclusively developed weightless, highly effective serum is powered by our unique formulation Secret Code P-151™ designed to ensure ingredients are optimized for achieving optimum absorption with skin rejuvenating and advanced aging care.

This Wrinkle Serum is clinically proven to help target fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin discoloration and smooth skin texture while refining pores for firmer, resilient looking skin.

Directions: Dispense 2–3 pumps. Gently tap into your face and neck until absorbed.

Ingredients: Water, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, Niacinamide, Sorbitan Stearate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Sorbityl Laurate, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Bisabolol, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Glutathione, Copper Tripeptide-1, Zinc Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate.

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Cream ($70.00 for 1.69 oz. from Vitabrid and Amazon): This is a mid-weight rich cream that melts into the skin, and the Shea Butter delivers serious moisture. Stabilized Vitamin C helps to even skin tone and lighten hyperpigmentation, and the novel peptides help plump fine lines leaving the skin smoother looking in appearance. This ultra-luxe, and velvety-textured, cream is such a pleasure to use and it makes skin look and feel exquisite. While I do not have wrinkles, I do have some fine expression lines, and this cream has definitely softened their appearance. There is no fragrance, and therefore people who are sensitive to fragrant skincare products will not have any problems with this cream in that regard. 

According to Vitabrid C¹²,

A wrinkle cream that helps reduce the appearance of deep lines and creases. It contains Secret Code P-151, Vitabrid C12's unique blend that helps enhance the delivery of novel peptides to boost collagen production, imparting firmer, plumper-looking skin. It melts in easily to provide lasting moisture, and is specially formulated with a biomimetic emulsifier that provides long-lasting hydration benefits, while gentle preservative ingredients make the formula safe to use on every skin type. Infused with Shea Butter and Pentavitin®, this cream easily melts into skin to provide lasting moisture. Safe, non-fragrance formula. 

Directions: Apply an appropriate amount onto your face and neck. Gently tap into skin until absorbed.

Paraben-free | sulfate-free | phthalate-free | silicone-free | fragrance-free 

Ingredients: Vitabrid CG® (Active & Stablized Vitamin C) - L-Ascorbic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Glyceryl Monostearate, Peptide Complex (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-1, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Copper Tripeptide-1,. Niacinamide (Vitamin B), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Shea Butter (100% Naturally Derived), Pentavitin® (Cosmos Certified, 99% Naturally Derived).

Overall Assessment: Wonderful separately, but better together!

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

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

Vitabrid C¹² & dearcloud Picks to Treat Hyperpigmentation & Acne

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

If hyperpigmentation (such as sun spots from sun damage) or acne breakouts, and the scarring that can occur as a result, are conditions for which you might be seeking products, then Vitabrid C¹² and dearcloud have some solutions to ponder. When using products that help fade hyperpigmentation, it is very important to use a high SPF sunscreen daily since it will protect the skin and help to prevent hypopigmentation. While I am not a medical doctor, I always consult with my physician and have her evaluate any moles, spots and anything else that looks like it could potentially be cancerous or pre-cancerous– since treating those spots is the last thing that I want to do if they may require medical treatment. My doctor and dermatologist long ago told me never to go outside without wearing a high SPF sunscreen, and I routinely have my doctor evaluate the ingredients of some of the products that I use. It gives me peace of mind, and it is a proactive way for me to guard my health.

Vitabrid C¹² 12 Hour Vitamin C Soothing Serum ($32.00 from Vitabrid C¹² and Amazon): is a serum that is formulated to heal and treat sensitive blemish-prone skin. I tested it out when I had an unusual breakout– likely a reaction to a new skincare product– and not only did it calm the red inflamed skin, but it healed the pimples very quickly and effectively. What was perhaps the most interesting discovery is the fact that it healed a red and irritated patch of skin– unrelated to the breakout– and it left my skin hydrated and soft, with pronounced clarity and luminosity. This is a wonderful brightening serum in addition to a nourishing and healing treatment for sensitive skin. In addition to brightening the skin, it helps to fade hyperpigmentation.

According to Vitabrid,

Our new12 Hour Vitamin C Soothing Serum is specially formulated for sensitive, blemish-prone skin.

Powered by our key ingredient Vitabrid CG that keeps vitamin C stable and effectively delivers it into the skin for 12 hours, this gentle, innovative formula tackles visible signs of redness, helps improve the appearance of blemishes and reduces the look and feel of excess sebum while maintaining clearer, healthy-looking skin. This clinically proven, non-comedogenic formula is also proven to diminish the visibility of pores and improve the moisture barrier.

Features:

• Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oils, PEGs, petrolatum, silicone/dimethicone, salicylic acid, alcohol.
• Noncomedogenic
• For sensitive skin

Includes:

• Powder 0.04 oz. (1.2g) x 1
• Serum 1.01 fl. oz. (30mL) x 1

Directions: 1. Remove the rubber packing of the Soothing Powder and install the cone nozzle cap. 2. Dispense 2-3 pumps of Soothing Serum onto your hand. 3. Press the nozzle 1-2 times to dispense the powder. 4. Mix the serum and powder together and smooth onto clean face and neck.

Tips: After moisturizing, dab the mixture directly on the spot and leave it overnight.

Key Ingredients: 

• Vitabrid CG (Scientifically advanced vitamin C): Delivers vitamin C for 12 hours, promoting collagen production while providing skin brightening benefit.
• Copper Tripeptide: Promotes collagen production and calms inflammation.
• Niacinamide: Helps minimize redness and blemishes while tightening pores.
• Madecassoside: Soothes and calms irritated skin.

Full List of Ingredients:

Soothing Powder: Ascorbic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Glyceryl Stearate, Acetyl Glucosamine, Betaine, Niacinamide, Serine, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Adenosine, Water, Allantoin, Madecassoside, Glutathione, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Copper Tripeptide-1

Soothing Serum: Water, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glycerin, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sodium Gluconate, Squalane, Sorbitan Isostearate, Saccharide Isomerate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Sucrose, Plankton Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Lecithin, Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum, Xanthan Gum, Fructooligosaccharides, Phytic Acid, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Madecassoside, Glutathione, Bioflavonoids, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycoproteins, Zinc Oxide, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Ceramide NP, Citronellol, Geraniol, Linalool.

dearcloud Perfectly Pure Hydrocolloid Blemish Patches & Compact Case  ($15.00-$17.00 for sets with the Compact Case and $8.00 for packets of 12 from dearcloud, Ulta, Urban Outfitters and Amazon): This is such a charming way to fight blemishes! These charming Hydrocolloid Blemish Patches effectively, and whimsically, cover up and treat blemishes and dark spots! Each patch is infused with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide that are formulated to target stubborn spots. Once you finish the 12 infused patches, you will definitely want to keep the charming, and sturdy, or you can simply purchase the packets of 12. 

According to dearcloud,

Cover up and treat blemishes and dark spots! dearcloud's Purrfectly Pure Hydrocolloid Blemish Patches are infused with Salicylic Acid and Tea Tree to help target stubborn spots. Unlike standard acne patches, our Hydrocolloid Blemish Patches are infused with acne-fighting ingredients to help clarify and brighten.

Benefits:

• Extract impurities
• Brighten dark spots
• Conceal and protect
• Cruelty-Free, Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free
• Made in Korea

Key Ingredients:

• Salicylic Acid: A clarifying BHA that alleviates clogged pores.
• Tea Tree: Helps clarify stubborn blemishes.

Directions: To Use: Apply on clean, bare skin. Do not use moisturizer or treatments under patch. Wear for 6 hours or overnight.

Overall Assessment: These Vitabrid C¹² and dearcloud products are worthy of your consideration if you are fighting breakouts or dark spots (hyperpigmentation), but as noted above you will want to make sure to use a high SPF sunscreen, and should consult with your doctor to evaluate your skin. Sometimes dark spots can be precancerous or cancerous, and you don't want to apply active ingredients to what could be more than just some discoloration from something like sun damage.

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

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

April 2025 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

I think what perhaps surprised me the most in April was the fact that I was able to finish up both bottles of Renpure Body Wash! They were both in use for a little over a year, but I didn't expect to finish them up in the same month. Overall, I used more body products than anything else, and I would happily use all of these products again! I used up a total of 11 products, and only one of them was a travel size.

Renpure Coconut Milk & Vitamin E Moisturizing Body Wash ($7.48 for 24 oz. from Walmart): This body wash has such a warm and creamy aroma that is calming and delectable. It boasts a rich and satisfying lather that is so pleasing to the senses. In fact, when I am in the hot shower, and my nose starts to unclog, its creamy toasted coconut aroma is a visceral pleasure, and it is just so comforting. While I love this body wash all year round, it is perfection this time of year, and it has made my cold a bit more tolerable! Purchase Again? Without question! This is my all-time favorite body wash!

Renpure Pomegranate & Mango Exfoliating Body Wash ($7.48 for 24oz. From Walmart): This delectably aromatic body wash, which is a beautiful blend of pomegranate and mango, is uplifting and incredibly pleasant for the senses. It gently and thoroughly cleans and exfoliates the skin, but it does so without stripping or leaving it dry or uncomfortable. Purchase Again? Absolutely!

Dove White Beauty Bar ($4.89-$11.99 for 2-14 bar packs from Target, Walgreens): This gentle, creamy cleansing bar contains ¼ moisturizing cream that leaves skin soft smooth and very clean. I have used it for many years, and absolutely love it! Purchase Again? I already have!

MyKirei Onsen Therapy Soothing Mineral Soak ($15.00 for a 5 pack from MyKirei by Kai and Amazon): This is a very soothing mineral soak that is perfect after a vigorous workout, or a long day at work. It relieves muscle aches and pains and it relieves stress. The Japanese Hinoki fragrance boasts a calming woodsy aroma that is a delight to the senses, while the mineral-rich tablet relieves the tension in sore muscles. A soak before going to bed helps one achieve a calm and deep sleep. Purchase Again? YES!

ellixi beauty Limoncello Body Scrub ($19.00 for 4 oz. from ellixi beauty): This is a delectably limoncello-scented scrub that only contains 5 ingredients. Gently massaging a small amount into damp skin releases the beautiful aroma, and the sugar and salt particles work wonders in their ability to exfoliate dead skin cells. The oils (coconut oil and the essential oils of lemon and vanilla) offer skin vital moisture, but they do so without leaving behind a greasy mess. Skin is left soft, smooth, supply and hydrated. It is truly such a pleasure using this body scrub, and the sensory experience is truly outstanding. Purchase Again? YES!

milk_shake Leave-In Conditioner ($24.00 for 11.8 oz. from milk_shake and their Amazon Store): is revelation in haircare that I first discussed over a year ago, and I have used it ever since. In fact, this is one of my true can't-live-without haircare products. I am a huge fan of their curly hair range of products, that I have been using for quite a while, but this leave-in conditioner is my all-time favorite product from them! Made for all types of hair, this conditioner offers hair tremendous manageability and moisture without weighing it down or leaving an unpleasant oily residue. It fights frizz and fly-aways, detangles, nourishes and protects the hair shaft and hair. Additionally, it offers UV protection, is color-safe and it smells utterly delectable. In fact, the sweet and creamy vanilla aroma smells so good. This is a truly covet-worthy leave-in conditioner! I will use this as long as they make it! I apply it to wet freshly washed hair, since it is a great detangler, but I also use it on dry hair to help style, revive my hair and fight frizz. Purchase Again? YES, for as long as they make it!

milk_shake lifestyling dry shampoo ($26.00 for 4.7 oz. from Amazon): This is a powder-based dry shampoo, with a delectable clean semi-floral aroma, that absorbs sebum, refreshes the scalp and hair and feels weightless. It's a great solution on the days that you don't shampoo your hair with water. If you love a good dry shampoo, this is definitely one to try! Purchase Again? I have other dry shampoos to use before I even think about getting another one, but I would happily use this again!

Cure Natural Aqua Gel ($39.00 for 8.5 oz. from Amazon): This is a very fun exfoliant to use because after you massage it into your skin for a short amount of time it transforms into a rather milky gel that causes dead skin cells to pill on the skin. The next step is to simply rinse the gel and dead skin cells off of your face or body, and you will be delighted by the extent to which your skin is left soft, smooth, supple and luminous. I routinely use it on my hands and feet, and am thrilled by the results. Furthermore, it is fragrance-free, free of harmful chemicals and so satisfying to use! Purchase Again? I just opened a brand-new bottle!

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum ($72.00 for 1.01 oz. from Vitabrid C¹² and Amazon): This wonderful antioxidant-rich serum offers skin incredible hydration and protection from free-radical damage. It boasts a blend of novel peptides that help boost collagen production, and the result is the appearance of firmer skin and plumped fine lines. Their antioxidant formula, which is infused with Niacinamide, Bisabolol and Citric Acid, helps to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation. The serum is mid-weight, fast absorbing, non-sticky and fragrance-free, and it leaves my skin soft, supple, smooth and incredibly luminous. Purchase Again? I just opened a brand new bottle!

Atelier Bloem 1614 Eau de Parfume ($69.00-$71.74 for 3.4oz. from Amazon and Walmart): This fragrance has a clean, fresh and delicate aroma that is punctuated by the detectable scents of citrus, Bergamot, Sambac Jasmine and Orange Blossom. Once it dries down the notes of Teakwood, Sandalwood and Musk warm the edges of the citrus. The end result is a fresh and dewy aroma that sits close to the skin, rather than hanging in the air, and delights the senses. Purchase Again? I would happily wear this again, but for now I am not purchasing any new perfumes because I have so many already.

Victoria Beckham Eye Kohl in Bronze ($34.00 each from Victoria Beckham Beauty, bluemercury, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman): In my opinion, the formula is absolutely superior to everything else on the market. They are creamy to the touch, ultra-pigmented, and once they set they do not budge. They are waterproof without being harsh, and they glide across the skin effortlessly, deposit color evenly and they do not bleed or feather. There is a sponge-tip applicator on each liner that allows you to smudge effortlessly, and you have enough time to smudge before the liners set. On me, these liners stay put until I remove them at the end of the day. 

Victoria Beckham Beauty is a cruelty-free brand, and these 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. I like to wear several of them at the same time. For instance, I like to first line my upper and lower lids with a color such as Bronze, and then I smudge Black into my lash line to intensify the effect, but also to frame my eyes using a darker color in my lash line for a more stunning visual effect. Purchase Again? I already opened another one in Bronze!

Overall Assessment: I really enjoyed using all of these products, and there isn't a single one tat I wouldn't happily use again. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in April? Any amazing finds, or terrible disappointments?

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

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

Vitabrid C¹²: The Mighty Serums that are Even Better Together

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I started using Vitabrid C¹² skin and haircare products quite a few years ago, and I have been consistently impressed by the efficacy of their products. Two of my favorite products are the Vitabrid C¹² Dual Drop Serum and the Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum, and what I discovered was that while they were fantastic on their own that they were nothing short of extraordinary when used together. 

I have found that applying the Vitabrid C¹² Dual Drop Serum first, followed by the Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum delivers remarkable results. The former, which is lightweight and fast absorbing offers deep hydration, light plumping and an ethereal glow. Ingredients, such as Hyaluonic Acid, offer effective hydration with lasting effects, while the thicker antioxidant-rich Wrinkle Serum smooths the skin and evens skin tone while fading hyperpigmentation over time.

Vitabrid C¹² Dual Drop Serum ($62.00 for 1.02 oz. from Vitabrid and Amazon): This powerhouse of a serum has been conceived to help reduce the signs of aging by increasing collagen production, brightening the skin, refining the appearance of fine lines and providing profound hydration. Not only will it hydrate skin year round, but it leaves the complexion glowing and even in tone. Furthermore, this wondrous serum is lightweight, ultra fast absorbing and it leaves behind no greasy or sticky residue. I would not characterize this serum as fragrant, but there is the slightest clean aroma that vanishes once it sinks in– which is immediate.

According to Vitabrid C¹²,

A highly concentrated antioxidant serum that helps provide lasting hydration and reduce fine lines and wrinkles for a firmer-looking complexion.

This hydrating serum features a blend of proprietary peptide and vitamin C, and potent age-defying ingredients that helps diminish the appearance of sun spots and mouth lines for a more youthful-looking appearance.

It helps deliver a synergistic effect by combining skin-firming and face-brightening benefits with lasting hydration. Infused with Peptide Complex and six layers of moisture-binding Hyaluronic Acid Complex help lock in moisture promoting the look and feel of firmer, brighter, and deeply hydrated skin without leaving a greasy residue.

Directions: Apply an appropriate amount to your face and neck. Gently tap into the skin until it is well absorbed.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Glycereth-26, Beta-Glucan, Methyl Gluceth-20, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Adenosine, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Adenium Obesum Leaf Cell Extract, Leontopodium Alpinum Callus Culture Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Zinc Oxide, Glutathione, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Resveratrol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Caprylyl Glycol, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4.

Vitabrid C¹² Wrinkle Serum ($72.00 for 1.01 oz. from Vitabrid C¹² and Amazon): This wonderful antioxidant-rich serum offers skin incredible hydration and protection from free-radical damage. It boasts a blend of novel peptides that help boost collagen production, and the result is the appearance of firmer skin and plumped fine lines. Their antioxidant formula, which is infused with Niacinamide, Bisabolol and Citric Acid, helps to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation. The serum is mid-weight, fast absorbing, non-sticky and fragrance-free, and it leaves my skin soft, supple, smooth and incredibly luminous.

According to  Vitabrid C¹²,

This exclusively developed weightless, highly effective serum is powered by our unique formulation Secret Code P-151™ designed to ensure ingredients are optimized for achieving optimum absorption with skin rejuvenating and advanced aging care.

This Wrinkle Serum is clinically proven to help target fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin discoloration and smooth skin texture while refining pores for firmer, resilient looking skin.

Directions: Dispense 2–3 pumps. Gently tap into your face and neck until absorbed.

Ingredients: Water, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, Niacinamide, Sorbitan Stearate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Sorbityl Laurate, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Bisabolol, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Glutathione, Copper Tripeptide-1, Zinc Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate.

 

Overall Assessment: While these two serums are wonderful when used separately, I find that they are even better together. A+

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

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