anti-aging – Page 27 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Protect Your Skin This Spring and Summer With New SPF Products

I have been getting ready for the upcoming sunny seasons by making sure I am stocked up with SPF — in my facial care, lip care and body care. I am even stockpiling products that help after a day in the sun. Here are my new faves:

Coola Liplux SPF 15 Vanilla Peppermint

Coola Sport Continuous Spray SPF 50 Unscented

Coola Environmental Repair Plus Calm Glow Eye Gel

Coola is one of my favorite sunscreen brands. If you like scented sunscreen, the scents are amazing, but if you need unscented products they have them as well. The three products above are amazing! The Liplux SPF 15 Vanilla Peppermint ($12 USD) is really refreshing and protects lips from the sun. With the unscented Sport spray ($36 USD) I can run around all day and not worry about burning, plus it has skincare benefits. The Environmental Repair Plus Eye Gel will soothe burnt eyelids and repair, too! Available at http://www.coolasuncare.com

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Range is very affordable and effective. Renowned for its Cocoa Butter chops for decades, Palmer’s has harnessed all of the incredible skin care benefits of this super ingredient (in prime-pressed, unrefined form) into a five-piece collection of suncare products that effectively protects skin, keeping it free from discoloration and spots associated with UV exposure. All of the products are formulated with Palmer’s proprietary Cocoaplex™ Technology, which optimizes the skin-friendly properties of Cocoa Butter all while enhancing the sunscreen emulsification. The products are:

SPF 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion – Retails for $7
SPF 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray – Retails for $9
SPF 15 Moisturizing Sunscreen Balm – Retails for $6
SPF 45 Moisturizing Sunscreen for Face – Retails for $7
SPF 50 Sunscreen Stick – Retails for $4

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Range is Available Exclusively at Wal-Mart Stores Nationwide.

NO-AD Sport Body & Face Sunscreen Stick ($6.99 USD) — Convenient wide-format stick keeps hands clean and ready for any sport or outdoor activity. Ultra-lightweight formula goes on clear with no white mess. Great for the body, yet gentle and light enough for the face. Fragrance-free, nonirritating formula is great for sensitive skin. Same quantity as national brands for a value price. This is a clear, light balm that is easy to apply and contains SPF 50. I light to use a spray sunscreen, then layer this on the areas that burn easily like my shoulders, tops of legs and nose. Available at Wal-Mart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Rite-Aid, Kroger, Publix, Winn-Dixie, HEB, BI-LO, www.wal-mart.com, www.drugstore.com, and other retail and online stores throughout the USA.

Safe Harbor Sunscreen ($9.99 USD): An advanced range of sun care products for adults and children complete with a mineral zinc oxide-based formula that naturally protects skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. With a focus on providing the most natural, effective and chemical-free suncare, the products also include titanium dioxide for an additional level of sun protection and a rich blend of ingredients such as red algae, green tea, sea buckthorn, and jojoba for added antioxidant benefits.

I tested the 30 Mineral SPF Sensitive Lotion. As I applied it, I noticed that it feels like a luxe skincare lotion, not SPF. It applies clear and absorbs instantly. I do have sensitive skin and it did not irritate my skin at all.

Purchase at Walmart stores.

Avon ANEW Vitale Day Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 25

Don’t forget the facial sunscreen! Avon ANEW combines SPF and skincare Vitale Day Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 25 ($28 USD) — Introducing Anew Vitale, powered by VitaToneComplex. Revive tired-looking skin after just one use. Now you can visibly reduce dullness, improve clarity and restore the well-rested look of a full-night’s sleep. I like that it is not greasy and that it instantly smooths the skin and gives an even skin tone. The SPF 25 protects while the cream treats tired skin. Available at http://www.avon.com Readers, please leave a comment and let me know what sunscreens you are using.

Innovative New Skincare To Improve Your Complexion This Spring

In the summer, it gets so hot in Kansas City that I don’t wear a lot of makeup. Because of this, I like my skincare to be in tip-top shape by summer.

I have been using the luxe skincare products below for a couple of weeks and my skin looks better than it has in a while! With all of these products, my pores are looking much smaller, my skin is clear and has an even tone, it is so soft and my little wrinkles are almost gone. These products may be a bit costly, but they are worth it!

Babor Reversive Anti-Aging Cream Rich ($185 50ml) — ReVersive is unique, as it contains a high-performance formula with four active ingredients that interact in perfect synergy. Designed as a complete anti-aging system, ReVersive restores youthful radiance and luminosity, leaving the complexion looking firmer and smoother with a beautifully even appearance. This slightly richer, soft-textured cream is ideal for dry skin, and can also be used as night cream to pamper the skin.

What I think: This is a rich cream that is not greasy at all! It absorbs into the skin leaving it so soft. I love using this at night over a potent serum to lock in moisture and make skin smooth and hydrated by morning.

Available in the world’s finest spas and at www.babor.com.

Intraceuticals The Opulence Collection provides powerful ingredients to dually target existing hyperpigmentation and prevent the formation of future spots, all while keeping the overall health of the skin in mind. Vitamin A gently promotes cell turnover and natural exfoliation to diminish the appearance of dark stops. Vitamin C works alongside Vitamin A to promote brightening benefits, while also providing super antioxidant benefits. Nonapeptide-1, the latest and greatest tyrosinase inhibitor available, assists in the long term defense of unwanted discoloration and control of brown spots and overall skin tone. All this while 3 layers of hyaluronic acid visibly hydrate and plump the skin for a healthier, more youthful appearance.

The new Intraceuticals Opulence collection, which includes the Opulence Daily Serum ($149 USD), sulfate free Brightening Cleanser ($49 USD), Hydration Gel ($89 USD), Moisture Binding Cream ($69 USD) and Brightening Wand ($49 USD) are available now at http://intraceuticals.com/.

What I think: I do have some brown spots on my face and so I was excited to try this line! My favorite products are the Hydration Gel and the Brightening Wand, because they both are such unique products. I use the Hydration Gel after serum and it really helps hydrate and even out my skin tone. I have been using the Brightening Wand on brown spots and have seen a bit of a lightening effect, which I hope will lighten even more as I continue using it.

Nassif MD Bio-Bundle Clock AM, Clock PM and Dawn to Dusk

Nassif MD Bio-Bundle Clock AM, Clock PM & Dawn to Dusk ($225 USD) — You can either purchase these three products separately or in a bundle. They are:

Clock AM Day Serum ($95 USD) synchronizes with the skin’s daytime biorhythms and defends the skin from environmental assault, including the newest types of UV radiation (cell phones, tablets and laptops) known as HEV (High Energy Visible) light. The key benefits of Clock AM include shielding the skin against hidden causes of premature aging, elasticity loss and wrinkles. It noticeably boosts skin hydration as well as helps firm the skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines.

Clock PM Night Serum ($95 USD) is full of beneficial mega-complexes for the rejuvenation, detoxification and recovery of skin during our rest phase. In only a few hours, liposome-delivered Roxisomes™ dive deep to help support the skin’s natural repair of damage from oxygen free radicals that occurs during the day. When combined with the nighttime biorhythm’s reparative mode, the skin is genuinely restored to preserve its youthful glow. The hero ingredient Astaxanthin acts as a potent antioxidant bolstering cellular resistance to environmental toxins. Matrixyl Synthe-6, a fortifying peptide, helps stimulate collagen production, contributing to firm, smooth skin. During sleep, recovering cells and the epidermal matrix are infused with essential sustenance for skin regeneration, restoration and renewal.

Dawn To Dusk Exfoliating Cleaner ($35 USD) is the perfect start to our skincare system. The jojoba and ivory palm seed spheres instantly rid the skin of dead cells and surface impurities, revealing a glowing and radiant skin that’s primed for intense nourishment and treatment. The main ingredients are Ivory Palm Seed, Jojoba, Pomegranate, Panethenol and Allantoin.

What I think: I have been using these three products for a couple of weeks and I love them. The cleanser is extremely gentle, and makes my skin so soft and clean without irritating it at all. Both serums instantly smooth and soften my skin.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.nassifmdskincare.com/products.

Patchology FlashPatch Eye Gels

Patchology FlashPatch Eye Gels ($50 USD) — When time isn’t on your side FlashPatch™ Eye Gels revive tired, fatigued eyes in just 5 minutes. Hydrogel patch technology provides deep hydration and eye revitalization in a way that topical creams or serums cannot.

Highly advanced cooling and refreshing translucent hydrogel patches accelerate the delivery of essential ingredients Caffeine and Hydrolyzed Collagen. Stay-put patches ensure you get the ingredients where you need them most. The result is a smoother, brighter, more youthful appearance. Included: 30 Pairs of FlashPatch Eye Gels

What I think: These are so cool (LOL, they literally cool the skin around your eyes)! They feel amazing when applied and really de-puff eyes. Plus you get a bunch — 30 pairs is a lot!

Available at http://www.neimanmarcus.com.

My Beauty Faves Week of April 27-May 03, 2015

It is getting warmer in Kansas City and the pollen count is very high, which means I am in the middle of allergy season! Yuck! And although I can’t wear eye makeup for a while (red, itchy eyes) I still want to look as good as possible.

This week, I am loving a good-for-you nail polish, a beautiful BB cream, a moisturizing lip crayon and a fun lip balm/sneaker collaboration.

What are you loving this week? Leave a comment and let me know!

Dr.’s Remedy Mindful Mulberry Nail Polish ($17 USD) — Think of the awakening and blossoming that comes with warmer temperatures. This renewed juicy berry shade is stylishly tart and playful yet sweet and classic. A perfect feminine neutral. Podiatrist formulated advanced nail enamel. Long lasting, brilliant color. Enriched with Garlic Bulb Extract, Tea Tree Oil, Wheat Protein and Vitamins C and E.

What I think: This is a beautiful color — it looks great on fingernails or on toenails, now that sandal season is here! This does last a few days without chipping and is so good for the nails! Love!

Available at http://www.remedynails.com

L’Occitane Immortelle Precious BB Cream SPF30 ($45 USD) — This multi-purpose formula with its smooth texture helps to conceal uneven skin tone and to blemish and brighten dull skin; signs of stress and fatigue appear softened and helps to protect skin against damaging effects of photo-aging, thanks to its UV filters.

What I think: I love that this BB Cream is a combination of skincare and makeup. Not only does it cover imperfections it protects and treats my skin. It gives medium coverage and the fair color is a good match to my skin tone without being orangey.

Available at http://www.usa.loccitane.com.

butter LONDON Bloody Brilliant Lip Crayons ($20 USD) — Precise and easy to use, this high-shine, long-wear LIPPY Bloody Brilliant Lip Crayon will make you fall in love with crayons all over again. The eight sumptuously pigmented colours provide antioxidant protection while delivering full coverage and creamy hydration like that of a lipstick while delivering the intense shine and smoothness of a gloss. Mango Seed Oil and Marula Oil help to improve lip moisturization and Niacinamide, maintains the skin barrier for smoother, more even lip tone. The best bit – each Lip Crayon comes complete with a built-in sharpener, so you can keep the slimline applicator sharp, even on-the-go.

What I think: This lip crayon is very soft and moisturizing. There is a built-in sharpener in the lid, which means you can sharpen your crayon on the go! I love the color Teddy Boy. It’s a nude-mauve color and is very pretty for a polished look.

eos x Keds Collection This spring, fashion and beauty comes together like never before! Millennial-loved brands eos and Keds partner together to bring you a Limited Edition eos x Keds Collection that has you covered head to toe featuring three new shoe designs inspired by flavors from the wildly popular eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm collection! Keds’ iconic sneakers are reimagined in bright solids and an eos sphere-inspired print that adds just the right amount of whimsy to warm-weather style.

This capsule collection contains three “flavor” styles in coordinating bright colors that are the perfect accessory to spring and summer style. The eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balms in Passion Fruit, Blueberry Acai and Pomegranate Raspberry are the inspiration behind the collection, with each Keds shoe matching the color and flavor of the corresponding eos Lip Balm. Finishing touches such as glitter laces and a striped sole accented with a lips icon are an added delight for the sunny season.

What I think: Although I don’t have a pair of the shoes, I do love the eos lip balms and think the colors for the balms and the sneakers are fresh and pretty for spring.

The limited edition styles are available exclusively at Shoe Carnival now retailing for $50 – $55.

Last Minute Mother’s Day Skincare Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day is just a week away! Have you purchased something for Mom yet? I think skincare is a great idea for her and for any woman that you want to pamper this month. Not only is it nice to try something new, this is a gift that will make her feel better inside and out!

Below are products and sets that may be perfect for a special lady this Mother’s Day:

Marula Pure Beauty Oil ($15 for 0.23 oz, $58 for 1 oz, $78 for 1.69 oz) — Specially formulated for the face and neck, premium Marula Oil is a naturally soothing treatment that provides intense hydration, protection, and rejuvenation to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for soft, radiant skin. It is suitable for all skin types and contains a high content of fatty acids, resulting in fast absorption to leave skin smooth with a matte finish. Clinically proven to contain a great deal of antioxidants and omega acids, it can be used alone as a highly effective anti-aging moisturizer, added to other facial products to boost their efficacy, soothe skin after facial treatments or sunburn, or used as a perfect makeup primer. The deliciously fresh scent that stems from a one percent essential oil blend and provides a total sensory experience upon application, then dissipates so it won’t fight your fragrance.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

Skin Inc Hydrate ‘Em Custom-Blended Serum Mother’s Day Set ($90 USD, a $145 value) — Deeply hydrate dry skin and plump up fine lines with this custom-blend of Ceramides, Coenzyme Q10 and Hyaluronic Acid, formulated with Skin Inc’s patented encapsulation technology that releases ingredients only upon application.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.iloveskininc.com.

Dr Jart+ The Original BB Set ($34 USD) — Busy mom? Treat her to an all-in-one beauty fix. Each set contains four of Dr. Jart+’s hero BB’s to help her tackle skincare problems while still providing great coverage.

Learn more at http://www.sephora.com

Le Mieux Skin Perfecter ($189 USD) — The Skin Perfecter uses ultrasonic technology (28,000 ultrasonic vibrations per second) to deeply cleanse pores. The ultrasonic waves create a sudden formation and collapse of bubbles in a liquid form called cavitation. This formation creates a micro-jet like current that increases the permeability of the cell walls, allowing molecules to be more easily transported through the outermost layer of the skin. This in turn pushes out any impurities and cellular debris.

Purchase at www.skinperfecter.com

My Beauty Faves Week of April 20-26, 2015

Spring is such a crazy season! It can be rainy one day, then sunny and warm the other. And don’t get me started on seasonal allergies…which is my least favorite part of spring!

I have been trying lots of different types of beauty products this week and thought I would review a random sample of my favorites. The one common denominator is that they are all fairly affordable and easy to find.

Below, you’ll find foaming shower gel, an affordable anti-aging skincare collection, beauty tools, fun eyelashes and

Rituals Zensation Foaming Shower Gel ($15 USD) — Zensation combines Organic Rice Milk, a natural ingredient that nourishes the skin and leaves it silky soft, with Cherry Blossom, the Japanese symbol of purity. Squeeze a small amount of gel into your hand – contact with water transforms the gel into a rich, relaxing foam.

What I think: I love this scent — it smells fresh and sweet, perfect for spring! It foams up in the shower and leaves the skin smelling amazing! I am obsessing over all of the Rituals scents I have tried!

Available at us.rituals.com.

For affordable and effective skincare, try the NEW Skin+Pharmacy Anti-Aging Collection. This clinically-tested line features time-release and UV-protective technology to target the visible signs of aging, and includes retinol day and night moisturizers, retinol eye creams, glycolic cream cleansers, and glycolic day moisturizer ($12-$20).

What I think: So far, my favorite product from this line is the Skin + Pharmacy Advanced Anti-Aging Therapy Glycolic Peel Pads ($20 USD). They are very easy to use — wipe clean face thoroughly with pad, leave product on for 10 minutes (less if your skin is sensitive) then wash off. Skin is smooth and glowing and pores look so much smaller! Love these and really love the price (20 for $20).

Learn more and purchase at http://www.cvs.com and CVS stores near you.

Beauty 360 Ergo Buffer ($5.99 USD) — Is a part of a new, premium beauty tools line available at CVS stores. This a 3-in-1 tool that shapes, smoothes, and shines nails, this 75-piece line delivers the ultimate in quality, precision and convenience!

What I think: This is so easy to get shaped and smoothed nails. It take a little time to get used to the design, but one you do, it’s a lot of fun! You can shape on one side, smooth on the other, and the inside is the shine buffer. I like to keep mine in my purse for nail emergencies.

Purchase and learn more about the line at http://www.cvs.com

A heritage brand 65 years in the making, Eylure is widely respected. From creating Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra look to collaborating with Katy Perry, the brand offers an elegant range of quality lash categories to cater to the individual consumer. As the first lash brand to come to market in 1947, the lash experts at Eylure present a collection with a concise range of eight categories that encompass every lash occasion. The eight categories, cover both strip, individual, and pre glued lashes.

What I think: These are so affordable! From $3.49 for the Katy Perry lashes to $9.99 for multiple lash packs, you can change your lash look whenever you wish! They are very easy to apply and include lash glue.

Available at Target, Ulta and Kohl’s.

An improved formula delivers extended wear and enhanced shine — still with the one stroke, one coat convenience that has made Sally Hansen Insta-Dri a cult favorite since 2009. Insta-Dri’s three-in-one formula combines base coat, color, and top coat in one bottle, making it even easier to have a glossy manicure in a minute. It dries in just 60 seconds, creating full-coverage color and shine without the wait.

The new spring shades are Re-teal Therapy, Plummet, In Nude-tral, Cherry Fast, Navy Fleet, Show Steel-er, Making Mauves, Leapin’ Lilac, Black to Black, Ablazing!, Quick Fire, Set Sail, Cocoa A Go Go, and Orange Zest.

What I think: I love how easy this is to apply and how fast it dries. Remember though, more coats means more drying time! I have been enjoying the softer colors like In Nude-tral and Making Mauves. But, the brighter colors are really nice on toe nails as sandal-season approaches.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

NYC New York Color 24 HR Waterproof Eye Shadow ($2.99 USD) This retractable chubby has a unique, pigment-packed formula for 24-hour waterproof wear. Color glides on smooth and stays crease-proof all day and all night. Try using it as a liner, or smudge with your finger for a smoky effect. Available shades: Wall Street Bronze, Brooklyn Mocha, Tribeca Taupe, 5th Ave Gold Rush, Murray Hill Champagne, Rockefeller Center Snowflakes, Empire State Building, New York At Night, Central Park Tulips, East River Romance and Madison Square Park.

What I think: If you like cream eyes shadows, these are affordable and easy to use. Plus, there is an array of pretty, natural shades for every day wear. The only thing is that they don’t spread very easily and need some working with to cover well. But for $2.99 each, grab a few and play!

Available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

What products are you loving this week? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Faves Week of April 13-19, 2015

We are experiencing rain and storms in Kansas City (April’s showers), but it is fairly warm and everything is green. I’m really starting to take care of my skin to get it ready for the warmer weather ahead!

This week I have been loving innovative skincare. From spa-like treatments to a luxe serum to a spray on primer, I have tried fab products this week that have really changed my skin!

Radical Skincare Instant Revitalizing Mask

Radical Skincare Age Defying Exfoliating Pads

Radical Skincare Skin Perfecting Screen SPF 30

Radical Skincare Instant Revitalizing Mask ($65 USD) — is a spa treatment in a bottle. This foaming mask for all skin types restores, stimulates and boosts skin’s radiance. Apply like a serum and wait- it will start to bubble (like champagne on the skin!). The mask works by release nutrients into the skin- you’ll see more activity in the areas where your skin needs it most. A unique formula helps maintain optimal oxygen levels, distribution and consumption to stimulate the skin’s energy production so it can function at its best.

Radical Skincare Age Defying Exfoliating Pads ($75 USD) — use AHA and BHA to gently exfoliate and support natural cell turnover, working to tighten and firm skin, reduce the appearance of pore size and lines, and preserve skin’s hydration and nourishment. Excess sebum is also removed while leaving the good oils to nourish and hydrate the skin. Enriched with chamomile for soothing and calming, it is perfect for sensitive skin.

Radical Skincare Skin Perfecting Screen SPF 30 ($55 USD) — With 100% non-chemical SPF 30 protection, the perfect texture and crushed diamond powder for a soft reflective property, you’ll want put this SPF on every time the sun comes out. Light diffusing pigments reduce the appearance of wrinkles and imperfections, antioxidants fight aging and the ultra-light texture makes it easy to apply and use with any type of makeup.

What I think: All three of these products are so different than anything I have used before! The mask is fun to use and leave my skin really soft, as do the exfoliating pads. Both products can be used a couple of times a week for really smooth skin. The skin perfecting screen gives SPF along with brightening the skin!

These products are available at http://www.sephora.com and Sephora stores.

VENeffect Firming Phyto-Lift Serum ($195 USD) — This potent, highly effective anti-aging treatment serum dramatically enhances skin tone and firmness. The unique formula is packed with 100% natural oat extract to firm the skin, while the exclusive phytoestrogen technology brightens, enhances skin tone, and dramatically boosts elasticity. Free of silicone, alcohol or fragrance, this serum is a highly active first step in the treatment regimen, working in synergy with VENeffect Anti-Aging Moisturizer for longer lasting moisture and firmer skin.

What I think: I have tested a sample of this and really like how it sunk into my skin and gave me an instant glow. I would have to use it more to see if it firms, but I could tell it was a very luxe product!

Purchase at http://www.veneffect.com

Skindinavia The Makeup Primer Spray ($35 for 4 oz) — Pore-clogging silicone primers have no place on your face! Get perfect makeup now and a virtually poreless, more even-toned complexion later. This lightweight, silicone-free primer mist delivers a smooth canvas for impeccable, long-wear makeup application, and offers long-term skin benefits you’ll love as well! Available in Original and Oil-Control formulations for dry/combination and oily skin types.

What I think: This primer is easy to use and really evens out my skintone! I also find that my makeup lasts longer when I apply before my foundation.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.skindinavia.com

What new skincare products are you loving this week? Leave a comment and let me know!

Fab Natural Beauty Products Perfect For Earth Day!

Earth Day is this Wednesday, April 22nd. One thing I love to do for Earth Day is to try natural and organic products and products that have earth-friendly packaging.

Below are great natural skincare and cosmetics, plus a fabulous bath wash duo that includes a refill pouch.

What natural products do you like to use? Leave a comment and let me know!

Sibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil ($15.95) — Sea buckthorn seed oil has long been used as a traditional beauty treatment to preserve youthful skin tone and texture. It is a secret remedy to fight wrinkles and age spots so you may (or may not) want to share it with your friends. This therapeutic grade seed oil will help restore damaged skin to its natural beautiful state.

Quick acting/readily absorbed
For all skin-types
Helps diminish wrinkles/age-spots
Promotes skin recovery and healing
10 ml bottle w/ dropper tip

100% therapeutic-grade Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil for topical use on ailments. Available at http://www.sibubeauty.com.

Tammy Fender Quintessential Serum

Tammy Fender Epi-Peel

Tammy Fender Antioxidant Crème Neroli and Orange

All of Tammy Fender Holistic Skin Care’s formulas are Pure Living Energy® for the skin – a collection of pure, organic custom blended skin care products. The products are created from the energy of the earth, plant oils and beneficial vitamins and nutrients.

Tammy Fender Quintessential Serum: This cult classic was the first of its kind, containing only quintessential forms of natural ingredients which work together to fight the signs of aging, keep skin moisturized and strengthen skin cells. With nutrient oils and pure essential oils such as Rose Hip Seed Oil, Avocado Oil and Bulgarian Rose Oil, this serum strengthens collagen, reduces wrinkles and protects the skin from UV rays. ($175)
Tammy Fender Epi-Peel: For a smooth complexion, simply coat and dry your skin with this clay mask and peel it off five minutes later. Enriched with hibiscus and grape seed oils, this peel relieves irritation, promotes circulation and removes toxins from the skin. ($80)
Tammy Fender Antioxidant Crème Neroli & Orange: This multi-vitamin-in-a-jar is prized for its nourishing, anti-oxidant and collagen-stimulating benefits. Neroli helps heal scar tissue, improve elasticity and balance overactive sebum. Calming and grounding, sweet orange enhances the skins immunity and hydration while plant butters moisturize and naturally filter UV light. ($95)

Purchase at www.tammyfender.com.

L’Occitane Almond Shower Refill Duo ($87.50 USD) — Refill your Almond Shower Oil whenever you need to thanks to this duo! Reduce, Reuse, and Refill. The Almond Shower Oil transforms, when in contact with water, into a delicate foam that gently cleanses the body. Enriched with almond oil, it respects the hydrolipidic film and leaves a subtle and mouth-watering scent of fresh almond, for a delightful skin!

This duo includes:
– Almond Shower Oil 16.9 fl.oz
– Almond Shower Oil Refill 16.9 fl.oz

Available at usa.loccitane.com

Physician's Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin BB Bigger! Better! Lashes Mascara — Physician’s Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin BB Bigger! Better! Lashes Mascara

Physician’s Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin BB Bigger! Better! Lashes ($9.95 USD) Revolutionary 100% Natural Origin multi-tasking BB formula builds Bigger, Better Lashes so you do not have to sacrifice volume for length or definition for drama. 24 hour wear. 2-in-1 multi-tasking brush. 100% Natural Origin. 70% Organic. 100% Natural color pigments. 100% Natural preservatives.

Learn more at http://www.physiciansformula.com.

New Skincare For Spring From Aroma Actives, Orico London, Joanna Vargas, and LovelySkin

As the weather becomes warmer, it is important to keep skin clean, refreshed and hydrated. Treating skin well will keep it soft and smooth during the warm seasons ahead.

I have been loving the following cleansers, scrubs and serums:

Aroma Actives Cleansing and Soothing Milk ($12 USD) — A gentle and effective cleanser designed to lift impurities and gently remove make-up. A light, non-greasy formula infused with the soothing and softening properties of Aloe Vera, Cucumber, Milk Thistle and Chamomile, leaving skin calm, supple and clean. Suitable for all skin types, particularly dry, sensitive skin.

What I think: This is a gentle cleanser that is nice for every day. And even though it is gentle, it removes make-up well! I is creamy and has a mild herbal scent.

Available at http://www.aromaactives.com.

Orico London Micellar Water ($24 USD) — Aromatherapy skin detox. New 3-in-1 purifying micellar water to instantly cleanse away toxins, eliminate impurities and make-up for radiant, clear and younger looking skin. Antioxidant Vitamin C stimulates collagen production and strengthens the skin’s barrier whilst soothing Calendula Flower Extract and Amino Acids help boost cell regeneration, hydrate and smooth. An invigorating blend of natural Tangerine & Orange essential oils helps boost skin circulation and detoxify skin.

What I think: LOVE! It has a fresh citrus scent and is so refreshing. I like to use it at night on a cotton pad. It removes my makeup and leaves skin clean and toned! Plus, it doesn’t dry at all. This is a really neat idea for a multi-tasking product!

Learn more and purchase at http://www.oricolondon.com

Joanna Vargas Vitamin C Face Wash

Joanna Vargas Daily Serum

Joanna Vargas Vitamin C Face Wash ($65 4 fl. oz.) — With loads of antioxidants, natural citrus oils, to combat daily pollutants and everyday grime while leaving your skin balanced. This bright and cheery purifying wash will also help in minimizing the look of pores. And give you the glowiest, clearest skin you have ever seen. The gentle fresh smell of citrus is also invigorating, specially in the morning when you are trying to get up and go.

Joanna Vargas Daily Serum ($85 for 1 fl. oz.) — The Joanna Vargas Daily Serum is an ideal combination of skin brightening elements, rich antioxidants and vitamins required for younger-looking skin. This lightweight serum moisturizes perfectly and improves firmness and elasticity so it bounces back.

What I thin: The face wash has a wonderful citrus scent and is so refreshing! It cleanses my skin without drying it out.

The serum is very light and sinks right into my skin. It leaves my skin glowing and soft. After using it for a couple of weeks I have noticed that my skin is smoother and a bit tighter. I am excited to continue using it to see what results I will see.

Available at http://www.joannavargas.com

LovelySkin Pore Refining Pumpkin Mask

LovelySkin C-Stem 7 Solutions Serum

LovelySkin Pore Refining Pumpkin Mask ($40 USD) — This nourishing mask has a self-warming formula that deeply cleanses skin with minerals, enzymes and vitamins. It also helps to reduce pore size, moisturize skin and improve its appearance.

LovelySkin C-Stem 7 Solutions Serum ($110 USD) — C-Stem is an exceptional rejuvenating vitamin C serum that contains Lilac Stem Cells. C-Stem combats signs of visible skin aging, diminishes the appearance of nose to mouth creases, and brightens skin tone. The formula reactivates 14 genes that are responsible for the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, and helps to reduce the accelerated aging protein Progerin.

What I think: The mask is amazing. You massage it in to dry skin and it gets very warm. Then add a little water, lather it and rinse. It gets rid of the surface dry skin and all of the junk hiding in your pores. So good!

The serum absorbs right into the skin and leaves it soft and glowing. I’ve noticed that my fine lines seem less noticeable and my skin tone is more even. I have only used it for a few weeks at night, so I will keep using it in hopes to see even more great results!

Purchase at http://www.lovelyskin.com where you can purchase the brand and more great skincare brands.

My Beauty Faves Week of March 30-April 5, 2015 Part 2

Happy Easter! I hope you all had a wonderful day with family and friends!

This is part 2 of my weekly favorite products review. You can read part 1 here. I have been testing and loving so many great products this week that I had to add a second post!

I have been loving a gentle shampoo, fresh bath and body products, a renewing skincare collection, and great new brow products!

Philip B. Lavender Hair and Body Shampoo ($30 USD, 7.4 fl. oz) — Gentle, sulfate-free cleanser protects and preserves hair color, while your skin soaks up moisture and softness. Mild blend of botanical cleansers creates a dense, luxurious lather—gentle enough for the whole family. Exclusive L-Amino Acid complex strengthens hair and magnifies shine, for healthy, gleaming color and soft, glowing skin. Pure Lavender Oil light, fresh, naturally calming scent. Paraben & sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) free; color & keratin- treatment safe.

What I think: This is a mild, soothing shampoo that is good for all the hair in my family, from my 11-year-old daughter’s long hair to my aging 40+ hair! And it leaves it soft and doesn’t strip it. It also works well as a body wash.

Available at http://www.philipb.com.

RITUALS Wu Wei Calming Cream Bath

RITUALS Mei Dao Rich Nourishing Body Cream

Freshly scented and richly moisturized RITUALS bath and body works will pamper skin this spring!

Wu Wei Calming Cream Bath ($19 USD) — Experience a sense of ultimate relaxation in this soft, fluffy foaming cream bath. Your skin will feel nourished and silky soft. Enriched with calming White Lotus and Green Tea, the symbols of purity and spiritual growth.

Mei Dao Rich Nourishing Body Cream ($29 USD) –Rich, creamy moisturizer for nourishing the skin. Leaves the skin feeling silky soft. Combines the gentle fragrance of White Lotus with the nourishing properties of Yi Yi Ren, traditionally used in Chinese medicine.

What I think: Both of these products smell amazing! So fresh, I love the scent of white lotus. The cream bath gives lots of foamy bubbles and is really fun to use and I like to use the body cream after my bath because it locks in the moisture.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.us.rituals.com.

Burt’s Bees Renewal Collection — Wrinkle-smoothing White Hibiscus and intensively hydrating Apple take center stage in our Hibiscus and Apple Rejuvenating Complex. In our Renewal Face Care line, this remarkable interaction plumps up cells to help reduce the look of lines and wrinkles, improve firmness, and make skin appear smoother and more hydrated.

· Renewal Refining Cleanser ($9.99)

· Renewal Intensive Firming Serum ($19.99)

· Renewal Firming Day Lotion with SPF 30 ($19.99)

· Renewal Firming Night Cream ($19.99)

· Renewal Smoothing Eye Cream ($19.99)

What I think: I have been testing the cleanser. It is a gentle way to clean the face morning or night and I don’t have to worry about my skin drying out when I use it. I love that it has natural ingredients and is so good for my skin.

Learn more at http://www.burtsbees.com

BRETT BROW Duo-Shade Brow Powder

BRETT BROW Dual-Sided Eyebrow Brush

BRETT BROW Duo–Shade Brow Powder in Dark Brunette ($18 USD) — Can be used dry or with a damp brush to create a perfectly blended brow shade for maximum definition.

BRETT BROW Dual–Sided Eyebrow Brush ($18 USD) — Part angled brush to fill in sparse brows and part blending spoolie to feather brows, creating the ultimate brow tool.

What I think: I was happy to receive these new products for review. I found that the brow powder was the perfect color for me and covered really well. The angled side of the brush laid the pigment down very well and the spoolie blended the product perfectly!

These will be available at Sephora stores in April 2015.

Do you know of any great new products I should review or ones that you are loving now? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Faves Week of March 16-22, 2015

It’s spring! It has been beautiful in Kansas City. Well, sunny and warm, but we are still waiting for rain to turn the brown grass green. It’s been such a dry winter for us.

I am still inspired to change-up my beauty routine for the new season. I’m loving a luxe new skincare potion, a multi-tasking tinted moisturizer, a fresh fragrance, pretty and affordable spring makeup and a fruity lip balm duo!

PHYTO-C SIGNATURE ($240 USD) — This is an anti-aging, anti-wrinkle product that works well for all types of skin. Stimulates cell–cell interactions, and accelerates cell renewal. Helps to preserve cellular energy, assists the formulation of collagen and strengthens in structural proteins. Combats fine lines, wrinkles and skin imperfections. Regenerates skin’s ability to retain moisture, enhances skin elasticity, tightens and firms skin. Brightens and improves skin tone and enhances skin smoothness and radiance. Active Ingredients are IMPA™ Complex, Aleosin, Mandelic Acid, and Vitamin B12. Apply twice daily.

What I think: The texture of this is lightweight and feels almost like a smoothing primer. I have been using it under my moisturizer like a serum at night, and over my SPF day moisturizer. It makes my skin silky and smooth.

Available at http://www.myphyto-c.us

glō therapeutics Moisturizing Tint SPF 30+ ($38) provides broad spectrum UVA & UVB protection with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide while Sodium Hyaluronate attracts and maintains hydration, holding 1,000 times its weight in water. Designed to feel like second skin, this lightweight tinted physical sunscreen goes on smooth and even for flawless all-day coverage and a natural looking, healthy glow.

What I think: For days that I am in a hurry, I love that this product gives moisture, SPF and covers, too! It has a nice medium coverage and is buildable.

Available at www.gloprofessional.com

GUESS Dare Limited Edition ($52.0050ML, $40.00 30ML) — Give yourself a sexy scent this spring with a fragrance that will steal your man’s heart – GUESS Dare Limited Edition. Floral, fruity and woody, this scent will leave you feeling desirable and sexy with an aroma that captivates every room.This tempting scent opens with juicy grapefruit and crunchy lady apple. Middle notes of pink jasmine and pear blossom balance out the bottom woody notes of sheer cedarwood, white musk and a touch of vanilla.

What I think: This is a light, fruity scent that is perfect for spring.

Available at http://www.guess.com

Essence cosmetics is excited to launch a bright, new variety of products to kick off a fresh start to spring! Whether you’re giving your lashes the royal treatment with new mascara, perfecting an easy day-to-night smokey eye or testing new shades of classic favorites, the essence cosmetics new collection includes over 30 new products to amp up your beauty routine this spring and summer.

The new products in the above photo left to right are:

Lash Princess Volume Mascara ($4.99 USD) — presented in a fantastical evening gown design and has a unique wand applicator designed for extra control to reach every lash. The prestige inspired cobra brush is specially shaped to lift, separate, and cover each individual lash for the most majestic volume.

Longlasting Lipstick ($2.99 USD) — Longlasting love! This rich and creamy lasting lipstick is moisturizing with intense color that lasts for hours. Available in 13 beautiful, cream and matte shades.

3D Eyeshadow ($3.49 USD) — 3D eyeshadows provide a smoother and silkier texture that is easy to blend. The new color-duos range from neutrals to jewel tones with high pigmentation. Apply with a damp brush for more intensity and maximum impact. Available in 6 irresistible shade duos in satin, metallic, and shimmering finishes. Available in 8 irresistible shade duos in satin, metallic, and shimmering finishes.

Available at Ulta, Shoppers Drug Mart and Fred Meyer

Spring Limited Edition Softlips Cube 2-pack ($6.49 USD) — The 2-pack features the popular Pomegranate Blueberry flavor and a brand new, limited edition flavor Peach Mango. As always, Softlips Cube delivers five lip-loving benefits with Lip Perfecting Technology to hydrate, replenish, smooth, protect with SPF 15 and add a shine to your lips.

What I think: I have tried this in the Fresh Mint flavor before and really liked the application and minty flavor. I was so happy to try these flavors, especially the new Peach Mango. It’s very yummy and reminds me of summer (yay)! The Pomegranate Blueberry is also very seasonal and they both moisturize well and are easy to apply.

Available at a mass market retailer near you.

What new products are you loving this spring? Leave a comment and let me know.