October 2023 Empties for the Face, Body and Hair

Purchased & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

In the month of October I finished up 13 products– 9 of which were full-sized and the remaining 4 were deluxe samples. There was not a single dud in the bunch, and I would happily use all of them again. However, in many cases I won't replace them in the near future because I have so many open products to use up before they spoil. While it looks as though I used a lot of products in October, it is important to note that many of these bottles, jars and tubes were simply finished up, and in some cases the were nearly empty. That said, it is always my goal to practice sustainability and mindfulness, and therefore I make a concerted effort to finish up products each month so that they aren't wasted.

Here is what I finished in October 2023:

Thinksport Epsom Salt Bubble Bath ($7.99-$8.49 for 8 oz. from Thinksport and Amazon): is an effective, and cruelty-free, bubble bath that is formulated to relieve sore muscles. Whether your muscles are sore from a vigorous workout or from a long and exhausting day, this bubble bath offers the perfect peaceful soak that soothes the spirit and relieves sore muscles. Instead of a pungent therapeutic aroma, that can be cloying, this wonderful bubble bath has a lovely citrus floral scent. I was so relaxed after my first use that I slept like a baby! Purchase Again? I have more bubble bath to use first, but I would definitely purchase this again.

RITUALS Fortune Oil Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood ($14.00 for 200 ml. from Rituals): RITUALS Fortune Oil Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood from the Laughing Buddha Collection is a wonderfully moisturizing shower oil for the body that functions in precisely the same way as the many facial cleansing oils that have recently flooded the market.

You simply apply a small amount of Fortune Oil Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood to your skin and as soon as it has contact with water it emulsifies and turns from an oil consistency to a thin milky emulsion that effectively cleans the skin, and leaves it delectably soft smooth and moisturized. The scent is a warm amalgam of Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood, and it is neither too sweet, nor too woodsy. While the scent is lovely it does not linger since it is, for the most part, washed away. Purchase Again? I will definitely purchase one of their shower oils once I use up more of my shower products.

Derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub ($32.50 for 2 oz. from Ulta): This is a wonderfully effective facial scrub. This exfoliator features tiny, and densely populated, exfoliating particles suspended in a creamy base that has enough grit to sweep away dead skin cells effortlessly. The formula is gentle, effective and non-stripping. Skin is left soft, silky smooth, supple and refreshed. It is a very concentrated formula– so this 2 oz. jar should last a long time unless you are using it on your face and body. Derma e suggests that it can be used on your hands, elbows, feet, knees– or anywhere you need to exfoliate rough skin, and I definitely agree that it is quite effective on rough skin in those regions as well. Purchase Again? Most definitely!

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water ($15.00-$71.00 from Revolve, Neiman Marcus): is one of my holiest of holy grail products, and I have been using it for many years now. My eyes can be particularly sensitive when it comes to makeup and makeup removers, and I have even found many so-called gentle eye makeup removers to be very irritating for my eyes. Koh Gen Do's Cleansing Spa Water removes all traces of makeup and eye makeup without irritating sensitive eyes or skin, and it leaves the skin soft, clean and hydrated. On the nights that I am too tired to do my full skincare routine, I use this multi-tasker to clean my skin and remove all traces of makeup. Not only is it incredibly effective, but it neither strips the skin, nor does it leave behind an oily residue. Purchase Again? YES!

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Wipes ($62.00 for a 3-pack from Macy's, Amazon, Violet Grey and Neiman Marcus): My eyes can be particularly sensitive when it comes to makeup and makeup removers, and I have even found many so-called gentle eye makeup removers to be very irritating to my eyes. When I was first introduced to Koh Gen Do's Cleansing Water and Cleansing Water Cloths I assumed that I would be disappointed as I had been so many times before. However, much to my surprise these products actually lived up to the claims made (in fact exceeded them). Not only did my eyes not sting, but it removes all traces of makeup, and the surrounding skin was left feeling soft and supple. Purchase Again? Without a doubt, I love these fabulous wipes, they are by far the best that I have ever used.

Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum ($195.00 for  30 ml/ 1 oz. from Space NK, Neiman Marcus and Cult Beauty (210.00€): This lightweight and fast absorbing golden elixir boasts a delectable warm and earthy aroma from which one can detect the Rose Damascena Absolute, Jasminum Grandiflorum Flower and a fusion of the remaining essential oils. The intoxicating aromatherapeutic experience delights and calms the senses while it quiets the mind. I find that I slow down and inhale deeply as I massage in into my skin, and that any residual stress that I may have been experiencing just melts away. This ritual is utterly relaxing, and it heightens the sensory experience of using this luxe oil. This serum significantly bolsters radiance and it leaves skin silky smooth, soft and supple. I note a distinct brightening and evening of my skin tone, a lifting and softening on my fine lines, and an undeniable increase in the long term hydration of my skin. Purchase Again? I just opened a new bottle! This earns a definite A+!

GOOD FAITH Brightening Serum + Vitamin C ($28.00 for 1 oz. from GOOD FAITH): is a wonderful lightweight and fast absorbing hydrating hybrid serum that is lusciously emollient. It leaves skin very soft, silky smooth, hydrated and luminous. It softens and plumps the appearance of fine lines, and noticeably brightens the complexion.

While it is designated as fragrance-free, it does have a delicious light citrus aroma that is tempered by a clean herbal undercurrent, and the aroma is from the ingredients themselves, not added fragrance. It is formulated for all types of skin and it is vegan and cruelty-free. Purchase Again? Maybe at some point, but I currently have several Vitamin C serums to use up first.

TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream ($72.00 for 1.7 oz. from TATCHA and Sephora): It a wonderful plumping, hydrating and antioxidant rich moisturizer that leaves skin luminous and happy. It is lightweight, fast absorbing and such a joy to use! Purchase Again? Not in the near future because I have far too many open moisturizers at the moment!

Erno Laszlo Hydra-Therapy Gel Cream ($140.00 for 1.7 oz. from Erno Laszlo): is a moisture-rich, deeply hydrating and fast-absorbing gel cream that melts into the skin, leaves behind no residue whatsoever, and immediately delivers results. The antioxidant-rich cream is formulated to be utterly weightless and it does an exquisite job quenching dry and dehydrated skin. It calms and soothes inflamed skin, and leaves it soft, supple and luminous. While it contains fragrance, toward the middle of the ingredients, it doesn't have much of an aroma to speak of. Purchase Again? I thoroughly enjoyed this gel cream, and would definitely consider buying it next summer.

Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream ($75.00 for 0.50 oz. and $225.00 for 1.69 oz. from Sephora, Nordstrom and Bluemercury): I now understand why this brand, and indeed this cream, has such a cult following. Described as, " soothing anti-aging face moisturizer that targets the signs of aging, promotes skin regeneration, and is infused with power ingredient purslane to keep skin hydrated and radiant for 24 hours"– this cream is a serious contender. It melts into the skin immediately and calms, soothes and deeply hydrates the skin. Skin is left soft, smooth, supply and luminous. Purchase Again? It is at the top of my list as soon as I finish up more of my face creams!

Zion Health's Deep Cleansing Scalp & Hair Scrub Pink Grapefruit Peony ($16.31 for 4 oz. from iHerb): This low-lathering scrub contains gritty little exfoliation particles that gently remove dead skin cells, product build-up, dirt and excessive oils. It leaves scalp and hair clean and exfoliated without leaving them dry or stripped. Simply massage it into the hair and scalp to activate the light lather, then rinse thoroughly and follow with your favorite conditioner. This is a very effective formula, and I only need to use it once or twice a month, but your use may vary. The aroma, which is informed by the pink grapefruit and peony, is unsurprisingly a bright and cheery fruity floral. The scent is uplifting and pleasant, but it does not linger. Purchase Again? Probably not because I have several other scalp scrubs to use, and it will take forever to finish them, but if I didn't I would.

OUAI Wave Spray ($14.00 for 1.7 oz. and $28.00 for 4.9 oz. from 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? I have two more bottles, and will definitely purchase more as soon as I run out.

Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon Eye Shadow Pencil in Dark Pearl ($29.00 for 0.06 oz. from Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Beautylish, Cult Beauty and Selfridges): is described as a "sparkling grey eyeshadow pencil for brown eyes," but it strikes me as a bit more of a bronzy taupe shade. It has stunning shimmer that does not migrate, and the consistency is silky smooth. It glides across the skin effortlessly, depositing color evenly, and it sets after about 30 seconds, as suggested, so you want to blend it out rather quickly since I have found it budge proof after it sets. Whether you wear it as an eyeshadow, or as an eyeliner– it offers all day wear without any creasing or migrating on my eyes. I should note that I do no have particularly oily eyelids, and therefore I can wear this without a primer and it stays put until I remove it, but your wear may vary. It is also very important to avoid tightlining, or wearing this in your waterline because it "is infused with Synthetic Sapphire, a mineral gemstone" and Charlotte Tilbury suggests that you immediately, and thoroughly, rinse your eyes with water should it get into them. I have sensitive eyes, and always avoid putting liner on my waterline, but even when I used to I never put shimmering liners that close to the eye. Purchase Again? Oh yes, it's just that stunning! 

Overall Assessment: I am quite pleased that I managed to finish up 13 products in October! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in October? Any serious hits or misses to report?

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

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

Empties Galore in May 2023

 

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

It is hard to make sense of just how fast the month of May flew by, and I managed to use a good many products. I finished up 10 products, and while most of them were quite well-used, it was quite satisfying recycling those empty containers, nonetheless.

Erno Laszlo White Marble Dual Phase Vitamin C Peel ($128.00 (Step 1 Size: 50mL / 1.7 fl.oz. Step 2 Size: 20mL / 0.7 fl.oz.) from Erno Laszlo, Nordstrom, Revolve and Harrods): this is a gentle, and yet very effective, 2- part peel that exfoliates dead skin cells effortlessly, but without irritating the skin. This clarifying peel lightens hyperpigmentation through the inclusion of ingredients such as Vitamin C, and therefore it brightens the skin, and leaves it luminous. One of the features that makes this at-home-peel so wonderful to use is the fact that is easy to use, and it doesn't take a long time to do. It delivers real tangible results, and I noticed the difference after a single use. Simply apply the Step 1 orange colored, and citrus scented, scrub to the skin and gently massage it into the skin for about 3 minutes, then add a full dropper the the Step 2 liquid activator to your skin and leave it on for about a minute. Rinse thoroughly, and say hello to soft, smooth, supple, exfoliated and luminous skin. After using it for about a month (once a week), I noticed that a small area of hyperpigmentation (from sun damage) was beginning to fade ever so slightly. I look forward to seeing how much it fades after a few more months of use. Purchase Again? Without question, this is one of the finest products that I have ever used from Erno Laszlo.

Derma E Essentials Microdermabrasion Scrub ($32.50 for 2 oz. from derma e and Ulta): is a wonderfully effective facial scrub. This exfoliator features tiny, and densely populated, exfoliating particles suspended in a creamy base that has enough grit to sweep away dead skin cells effortlessly. The formula is gentle,  effective and non-stripping. Skin is left soft, silky smooth, supple and refreshed. It is a very concentrated formula– so this 2 oz. jar should last a long time unless you are using it on your face and body. Derma e suggests that it can be used on your hands, elbows, heels, knees– or anywhere you need to exfoliate rough skin, and I definitely agree that it is quite effective on rough skin in those regions as well. Purchase Again? At some point, but I have other face scrubs to use up first.

Rituals Zensation Organic Rice Milk & Cherry Blossom Foaming Shower Gel (discontinued scent): You simply apply a small amount of the shower oil to your skin and as soon as it has contact with water it emulsifies and turns from an oil consistency to a thin milky emulsion that effectively cleans the skin, and leaves it delectably soft smooth and moisturized. The scent is delightful and uplifting, but not  too sweet. While the scent is lovely it does not linger since it is, for the most part, washed away. Purchase Again? I just opened my last bottle of this marvelous scent!

Spongellé Let's Celebrate Butterfly Holiday Gift Set (on Sale for $6.00 each Spongellé): The delectable French Mimosa Body Wash Infused Buffer and Peace Sugar & Sea Salt Body Wash Infused Buffer were delightful to use. Their scents were hypnotic and otherworldly, and I absolutely love everything about the smell and its ability to thoroughly clean and exfoliate the skin. Purchase Again? I have more to use before I repurchase, but I absolutely covet their products.

Giovanni 2chic Pineapple & Ginger Ultra-Revive Conditioner ($9.99 each for 8.5 oz. from Giovanni Cosmetics and Whole Foods): If you have dry, unruly hair, or naturally curly hair that can be both dry and unruly, then Giovanni Pineapple and Ginger Ultra Revive Shampoo and Conditioner are worthy of your consideration. Both infuse hair with vital moisture, leave hair soft and silky, and do an impressive job fighting frizz and flyaways. The Sodium Lauryl and Laureth Sulfate-Free formula is gentle on the hair, it's color-safe, and it never strips or traumatizes locks. Hair is left smooth, manageable, lustrous and healthy. The aroma is best described as a delectable pineapple that lingers for a short period of time before fading away, and therefore it will not interfere with any fragrances that you might ordinarily wear. Purchase Again? Probably at some point, but I am currently swimming in conditioners that I need to use first.

LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant ($14.00 for 1.7 oz. from LAVANILA, and Ulta): Though I have occasionally used mainstream deodorants, I do prefer to avoid the chemicals. LAVANILA makes wonderful healthy deodorants that are effective and smell wonderful (though they also make an unscented variant for sensitive skin). Their Vanilla Grapefruit scent is probably my favorite because it smells utterly scrumptious, and offers long-lasting protection. This month, I managed to use up 3 of their deodorants, but they were all nearly empty, and between the three deodorants I had a total of about 2 weeks worth left to use. Purchase Again? Without question, they make one of the best natural deodorant formulas that I have ever used.

Spongellé Daily Dose Hand Cream in Coconut Verbena ($10.00 for 7 sachets from Spongellé): is a convenient and travel-friendly way to carry hand cream. Spongellé Hand Creams offer dry hands and cuticles 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 their hand creams, my poor chapped hands have been soft, smooth, nourished, hydrated and luminous! The Coconut Verbena scent is refreshing and intoxicatingly beautiful, and it embodies a warm summer breeze. Purchase Again? I have some of their other hand creams to use up first, but this is perfection for travel!

Overall Assessment: I am pleased that I managed to finish up 10 products this month, and hope that I can do that well in June. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in May? Did you discover any real gems, or were you truly disappointed by anything that you used? 

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links). 

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

Beauty Product Empties for April 2023

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I managed to use up 9 full-size products in April 2023, and I am a bit surprised that I finished 4 full-size body products, 2 full-size haircare products and 3 full-size skincare products. Here is what I finished:

Spongellé Body & Soul Detox Buffer in Eternal Mint ($28.00 each from Spongellé): is a body wash infused buffer with ashwagandha root extract, and it includes its own chakra stone for meditation and cleansing. Helping to wash away negativity, each crystal creates a new found sense of energy– based upon the 7 chakras. This collection is such a meditative way to enhance your bath and shower experience, and they also make fantastic Mother's Day gifts! Purple is Eternal Mint (Third-Eye Chakra), and it smells and feels amazing! Purchase Again? I have more of their beautiful body wash infused buffers to use before I purchase any, but I will certainly when I run out.

Rituals Sensation Organic Rice Milk & Cherry Blossom Foaming Shower Gel Sensation and Rituals Yogi Flow Indian Rose & Sweet Almond Oil Foaming Shower Gel Sensation (both are discontinued scents): I fell in love with this innovative shower gel formula from the very first moment that I used it. As I have said before, it's an extraordinary take on the ordinary, and for me it makes my bathing experience anything but mundane. Their unique gel to foam technology not only makes it immensely fun to use, but it exceeds my every expectation of what a body cleansing gel should do. It cleans beautifully, smells glorious, and leaves the skin lusciously hydrated and soft. Furthermore, the rich dense foamy texture lends itself to being one seriously amazing shaving cream that cleanses, softens, and gives a seriously close shave. My legs have been transformed into the most soft and silky skin imaginable, and this gorgeous product has quickly given the boot to all of my other shaving creams! Purchase Again? I have a couple of other scents from Rituals, and I am about to open another one! I will definitely purchase their current scents as soon as I finish my last can!

Rituals Sakura Spring Organic Rice Milk & Cherry Blossom Foaming Shower Oil (discontinued scent): You simply apply a small amount of the shower oil to your skin and as soon as it has contact with water it emulsifies and turns from an oil consistency to a thin milky emulsion that effectively cleans the skin, and leaves it delectably soft smooth and moisturized. The scent is delightful and uplifting, but not  too sweet. While the scent is lovely it does not linger since it is, for the most part, washed away. Purchase Again? I have one bottle of one of their other scents left, and once I finish that I will purchase one of their current scents.

Derma E Ultra Lift Firming DMAE Moisturizer ($23.95 for 2 oz. from Derma E and Ulta): I liked this face cream a lot. It was hydrating, not-too-rich and it left my skin soft, smooth and supple. Purchase Again? I have so many open jars of cream that it is unlikely that I will replenish this.

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Wipes ($62.00 for a 3-pack from Macy's, Amazon, Violet Grey and Neiman Marcus): My eyes can be particularly sensitive when it comes to makeup and makeup removers, and I have even found many so-called gentle eye makeup removers to be very irritating to my eyes. When I was first introduced to Koh Gen Do's Cleansing Water and Cleansing Water Cloths I assumed that I would be disappointed as I had been so many times before. However, much to my surprise these products actually lived up to the claims made (in fact exceeded them). Not only did my eyes not sting, but it removes all traces of makeup, and the surrounding skin was left feeling soft and supple. Purchase Again? Without a doubt, I love these fabulous wipes, they are by far the best that I have ever used.

Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey 2-in-1 Face Scrub & Cleanser ($15.99 for 3 oz. from Mielle Organics, Target and Walmart): Not only is Mielle a leader in superb haircare, you can also enjoy their easy-to-use skincare products! Now, you can simplify your skincare routine with this two-in-one face scrub & cleanser combo. It gently exfoliates and cleanses the pores while removing dirt, oil and impurities for skin that is smooth and soft to the touch. A little goes a long way, and with daily use, your face will be glowing and flawless. Purchase Again? I have a lot of facial scrubs to use up first, but I would definitely use this again!

Mop C-System Hydrating Conditioner ($22.00 for 8.45 oz. from Amazon): This color-safe, antioxidant-rich conditioner hydrates, and smooths my unruly curly tresses, and it does an impressive job making it frizz-free. I will definitely need to get another bottle when I finish this one up! Purchase Again? I have one bottle left!

Viori Citrus Yao Conditioner ($18.00 for 2.8 oz. from Sephora, Viori and the Viori Amazon Store): The delectable citrus aroma is extraordinarily pleasant and delightful. This nourishing conditioner leaves my hair very manageable and my scalp comfortably hydrated. It detangles hair, fights frizz and leaves hair soft, silky smooth and shiny. It does not weigh hair down or leave behind an oily residue. Purchase Again? I have their unscented bar to finish first, but yes!

Overall Assessment: I am pleased that I was able to finish 9 full-size products in April, and I didn't have to toss anything out that went bad before I was able to finish it. What did you use up, toss out, give away, or return in April? Any real winners or losers to share?

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

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

Derma E Crepey Skin Repair Treatment Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Derma E Crepey Skin Repair Treatment is an ultra thick, rich and moisturizing cream to treat crepey skin on the body and neck. I should preface this review by stating, first and foremost, that I do not have crepey skin, but this winter I had unusually dry skin as a result of the cold and wet season that we had. Therefore, I had the perfect opportunity to try this treatment on my very dry arms. It has a texture that is more like a concentrated body butter, than a cream, and it is quite concentrated. Therefore, I only use a small amount for excellent results. Simply massage this antioxidant-rich cream into the skin, and the the AHAs gently exfoliate dead skin cells while the nourishing formula moisturizes and plumps the skin. It has a light herbal aroma, but it fades quickly, and it isn't in the least bit imposing. I have only used it on my arms, but I am quite pleased by the extent to which my skin no longer looks or feels so dry.

According to Derma E,

Highly-efficacious restorative cream addresses dry, crepey skin, transforming it to visibly smoother, hydrated and firmer skin. Restore's skin health for a youthful appearance.

Benefits:

• Formulated with Derma E's unique Anti-Crepe Complex of Plum, Cranberry and Apple Extracts, Vitamins A & E, AHAs and Caffeine to reduce the look of crepey skin and restore skin health for a youthful appearance

Features:

• 100% Vegan and Cruelty-free
• Recyclable & wind energy certified
• Formulated without GMOs, gluten, or soy

Key Ingredients:

• Copper Peptides: Visibly help improve thickness and firmness
• Resveratrol: Powerful antioxidant that guards against free radicals that may degrade collagen
• Anti-Crepe Complex: Supports collagen health, hydrates and conditions skin
• Caffeine: Firms & tones skin on neck, chest and arms
• Vitamins A&E: Hydrate and condition sun damaged skin

Directions: Apply as needed to body, concentrating on crepey skin areas. For best results, first use our Crepey Skin Pre-treatment Exfoliating Scrub.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Glycerin (Vegetable Derived), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol (Plant Derived), Stearic Acid (Vegetable Derived), Glyceryl Stearate Citrate (Vegetable Derived), Glyceryl Stearate SE, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Polysorbate 20, Dimethyl MEA, Prunus Domestica (Plum) Seed Oil, Vaccinum Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Bakuchiol, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Caffeine, Retinol, Resveratrol, Copper PCA, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Polyphenols, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Allantoin, Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.

Overall Assessment: While I cannot speak to its ability to eliminate the appearance of crepey skin, I can unequivocally state that it nourished and effectively hydrated the unusually dry skin on my arms this winter. I am such a fan of Derma E, and it has long been a trusted brand in my household.

$21.50 for 6 oz. from Derma E, Ulta, Target, iHerb and Walmart (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

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

Derma E Ultra Lift DMAE Concentrated Serum Review

 

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Derma E Ultra Lift DMAE Concentrated Serum is a lightweight and fast absorbing antioxidant-rich facial serum that is formulated to visible tighten skin, and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It has thin gel-like watery texture that leaves behind no sticky or greasy residue, and it deeply hydrates the skin. The Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate), toward the top of the ingredients list, softens the appearance of fine lines by plumping them, and it retains much-needed hydration. Skin is left soft, smooth, hydrated and luminous.

According to Derma E,

Enriched with skin-firming Copper Peptides and anti-aging Resveratrol, our silky, concentrated serum protects against collagen degradation as it nourishes and moisturizes skin. Antioxidant-rich Kakadu Plum and botanical extracts fight free radical damage while DMAE, nature's firming agent, minimizes the appearance of wrinkles, leaving skin visibly tightened and toned for a younger-looking complexion.

Directions: Pump a small amount of Firming DMAE Serum onto the fingertips and apply to the entire face and neck in light upward strokes.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Glycerin (Vegetable Derived), Olive Oil Glycereth-8 Esters, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dimethyl MEA (DMAE), Resveratrol, Copper PCA, Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana (Kakadu Plum) Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Meristem Cell Culture, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Leaf Extract, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemon Grass) Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower*, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Corallina Ofcinalis Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Soamum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Prunus Domestica Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Malic Acid, Lavendula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Polysorbate 20, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin. *Certified Organic.

Overall Assessment: I have used Derma E products for quite a few years, and their products are affordable, effective and a pleasure to use.

$21.95 for oz. from Derma E, iHerb and Target (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. 

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

January 2023 Empties for the Face, Body & Hair

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

I managed to use of 7 full-size products in January, and I am pleased by this accomplishment. I liked everything enough to purchase each of them again, and I definitely enjoy using products from these brands. Here is what I finished up in January:

Derma E Vitamin C Gentle Daily Cleansing Paste ($16.95 for 4 oz. from Derma E, Ulta, Target and iHerb): is a wonderful hardworking gently exfoliating lathering cleanser that can also be used as an effective mask. As an exfoliating cleanser, you simply apply it to your face, neck and décolleté and the lovely lather and exfoliating particles effectively and gently clean the skin and remove dead skin cells without stripping or drying it out. As a mask you just apply a generous amount to the face and leave it on until it dries down (about 5 minutes), then with damp fingers gently massage to activate the exfoliating particles. then thoroughly rinse with warm water. The result is scrumptiously soft and smooth skin. There is no detectable scent, therefore if you are sensitive to aromatic skincare, you will have no issue with this cleansing paste. Purchase Again? I have another tube ready to go!

Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil ($15.00-$98.00 for 1.69 oz to 15.22 oz. Shu Uemura USA): This ultra-luxe rich and emollient cleansing oil has a luscious lightweight consistency that leaves skin soft, smooth, supple and luxuriously hydrated. While it can be used by all skin types, I suspect that it will be coveted by people with normal to dry skin. When water is introduced, this cleansing oil also transforms into a rich and creamy milky emulsion that gently removes every trace of dirt and makeup without ever stripping the skin, and it leaves skin velvety soft and smooth without leaving behind a greasy residue. It has a warm and creamy aroma that I find intoxicatingly delicious. Purchase Again? I am about to open another bottle!

Spongellé Sugar Dahlia Hand & Body Wash ($24.00 for 11 oz. from Spongellé): is an extraordinary additions to Spongellé's collection. Spongellé, a Los Angeles based company, creates beautiful products that delight the senses and the skin, and they make wonderful gifts. This is an absolutely gorgeous scent, and it cleans the skin without any stripping or drying. In fact, all of their these beautifully aromatic Hand and Body Washes leave skin soft, smooth and hydrated. Sugar Dahlia: Top: Citrus Nuances, Solar Accord. Middle: Midnight Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Freesia, Muguet, Neroli. Base: Musk. Purchase Again? I just opened another scent!

Rituals The Ritual of Sakura Caring Shower Oil ($12.50 for 6.7 oz. from Rituals): is a wonderfully moisturizing shower oil for the body that functions in precisely the same way as the many facial cleansing oils that have recently flooded the market. You simply apply a small amount of oil to your skin and as soon as it has contact with water it emulsifies and turns from an oil consistency to a thin milky emulsion that effectively cleans the skin, and leaves it delectably soft smooth and moisturized. The beautiful scent of Cherry Blossom is a delight to the senses, and fills the air with its lovely aroma. While the scent is lovely it does not linger since it is, for the most part, washed away. Skin is left clean, soft, smooth and hydrated. Purchase Again? I have more of their Shower Oils waiting to be opened!

Potager Soap Co. Minted Lemon Tea ($9.98 for 4.5 oz. from Potager Soap Co.): When Potager states that the scent of spearmint is mood elevating, they are not exaggerating. The smell of this bar puts me in a very good mood. The spearmint is tempered by a hint of lemon, and the way in which the aroma bursts forth is enough to put a smile on your face. The rich and creamy lather is very satisfying, and the moisturizing formula leaves the skin soft and supple. Purchase Again? Definitely!

Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream ($19.99 for 3.4 oz. from Ulta and Select Salons Nationwide): My sister introduced me to this styling wonder years ago, and I fell in love with it immediately. A small amount is all you need to fight frizz and fly-aways, make unmanageable hair silky smooth, shiny and absolutely gorgeous. It has a sweet aroma that is pleasant and unobtrusive. You do not have to have curly hair to benefit from it, just the desire for manageable silky smooth hair. For reference, while my hair is wildly curly, my sister's is perfectly straight, and we both use this stuff! Purchase Again? I have a lot of styling products to use, but I will definitely get this again in the future.

CRYSTAL Essence Pomegranate Mineral Deodorant Roll-On ($6.79 for 2.25 oz. from The Crystal, Walmart and Walgreens): Available in a delightful array of scents, and an unscented variety, these natural roll-on deodorants offer me all-day protection and they neither stain clothing, nor do they irritate my sensitive skin. They are not antiperspirants, and therefore will not prevent sweating. Purchase Again? YES!

Overall Assessment: I am actually a little surprised that I finished up this many full-size products in January! What did you finish, toss out, give away or return in January? Any particularly good or products to report?

Press Sample (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2023 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

November 2022 Face, Body & Hair Product Empties

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

During the month of November, I managed to finish 8 products– of which 7 were full-size and one a travel-size. Unlike last month, where I didn't finish a single face product, I managed to finish 4 of them in November. Here is what I managed to finish:

Spongellé Love Always | Bulgarian Rose Heart Buffer ($14.00 from Spongellé):  Spongelle’s Love Always Heart Buffer in Bulgarian Rose is utterly delectable. The size is perfect for home or travel, and it effectively cleanses and exfoliates the skin. Their body wash infused buffers are a treat to the skin and the senses, and their Bulgarian Rose is one of my all-time favorite scents! Purchase Again? Oh, definitely!

Fragrance Notes:

• Top: Cinnamon Sticks, Sliced Ginger, Sweet Clove, Juicy Orange
• Middle: Tuberose
• Base: Whipped Vanilla, Cozy Musk

Walton Wood Farm Warm Cranberry Shea Butter Soap ($8.99 for 3.5 oz from Walton Wood Farm): This delicious cranberry scented soap smells like the holidays! It has a wonderful lather, and rather than drying out skin the shea butter moisturizes and pampers the skin. Purchase Again? Once I finish up a few more of my bar soaps, I will definitely!

RITUALS Yogi Flow Foaming Shower Gel (Discontinued scent): This is yet another masterpiece from Rituals, and this is not an exaggeration. Their Foaming Shower Gels are decadent things of beauty, and once you try them you will be hooked. The gel formula turns into a dense and rich foam upon contact with water. It is highly concentrated so a little goes a very long way, and it not only cleanses skin effectively, but it leaves skin soft, supple and moisturized. Furthermore, it doubles as one of the most effective and emollient shaving creams that effortlessly facilitates a very close shave. The scent is a gorgeous fusion of Indian Rose and Sweet Almond Oil, and this exotic blend not only leaves the skin with a sensual veil of fragrance, but it also leaves the bathroom smelling delectable. Purchase Again? I would in a heartbeat, but they seem to have discontinued this scent.

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Wipes ($62.00 for a 3-pack from Sephora, Dermstore, Macy's, Amazon, Violet Grey and Neiman Marcus): My eyes can be particularly sensitive when it comes to makeup and makeup removers, and I have even found many so-called gentle eye makeup removers to be very irritating to my eyes. When I was first introduced to Koh Gen Do's Cleansing Water and Cleansing Water Cloths I assumed that I would be disappointed as I had been so many times before. However, much to my surprise these products actually lived up to the claims made (in fact exceeded them). Not only did my eyes not sting, but it removes all traces of makeup, and the surrounding skin was left feeling soft and supple. Purchase Again? Without a doubt, I love these fabulous wipes, they are by far the best that I have ever used.

Tatcha Polished Gentle Rice Enzyme Powder ($68.00 for 2.1 oz from Tatcha, and Sephora): I'm just so incredibly impressed by Tatcha in general, and really believe that they make some of the very finest skincare products on the market. Tatcha Polished Gentle Rice Enzyme Powder is a very effective, yet a remarkably gentle, exfoliating cleanser. I really enjoy the metamorphosis from powder to paste, and the routine itself is immensely pleasurable. There is just enough grit to the texture of this refined and silky paste to loosen and remove all debris and dirt. Purchase Again? I have a full size jar that I recently opened. This is a refillable travel size, and I will refill it for my next out-of-town trip.

Derma e Microdermabrasion Scrub ($32.50 for 2 oz. from Ulta): This is a wonderfully effective facial scrub. This exfoliator features tiny, and densely populated, exfoliating particles suspended in a creamy base that has enough grit to sweep away dead skin cells effortlessly. The formula is gentle, effective and non-stripping. Skin is left soft, silky smooth, supple and refreshed. It is a very concentrated formula– so this 2 oz. jar should last a long time unless you are using it on your face and body. Derma e suggests that it can be used on your hands, elbows, feet, knees– or anywhere you need to exfoliate rough skin, and I definitely agree that it is quite effective on rough skin in those regions as well. Purchase Again? I just opened another new jar!

Phytomer Rosée Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion ($40.00 for 8.4 oz. from Phytomer and SkinStore): This two-in-one gentle makeup remover and toner, with the lovely scent of rosewater, gently and effectively cleanses and removes makeup without drying or irritating the skin, and it doesn't leave behind an oily film. The alcohol-free formula effectively removes dirt, debris, oil and makeup without causing any skin irritation. When I use resilient waterproof makeup, however, I definitely prefer using a duo-phase eye makeup remover to breakdown and remove my makeup, but this definitely removes non-waterproof eye makeup formulas with ease. Purchase Again? At some point I will, but I already miss using it!

Royal Locks Curl Quench Conditioner ($19.50 for 12 oz. from Royal Locks): This lightweight, and ultra-emollient, conditioner is incredibly nourishing and hydrating, and it gives curly and wavy hair all of the pampering and moisture that it needs, but without ever weighing it down and leaving it feeling greasy. It fights frizz and fly-aways and leaves curls bouncy and supple. It has a light, and pleasant, aroma, but it is neither long-lasting, nor in the least bit cloying. Purchase Again? I have to go through quite a few bottles of conditioner before I need to buy another, but I will definitely consider purchasing this lovely conditioner in the future.

 

Overall Assessment: I am pleased with my progress toward using open products before they go bad! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in November? Do you have any faves or duds to report?

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

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