bath products – Page 20 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of August 12th!

My kids went back to school this week! My daughter Olivia is in 5th grade and my daughter Abby is a freshman in high school! Time goes by so quickly!

During this fun, but emotional week, I have been loving a luxe new mascara, tropical lime-scented body products, a dark-circle buster, waterproof bright eyeliner, and a light skincare line.

What new products have you tried this week? Leave a comment and let me know!

Lancôme Paris Grandiose Mascara ($32 USD) — Professional makeup artists bend mascara stems to coat every lash. With Grandiôse, Lancôme brings this expert application technique to women everywhere thanks to the world’s first Swan-Neck^TMWand. Curved at a 25 degree angle, the Swan-Neck^TMWand mimics the curves of your face, grabbing lashes at the base to fan them out and avoid any unnecessary smudging.

The result? Ultimate Coverage – from corner to corner and root to tip. One more detail: the wand’s three dimensional curve seals air into the bottle and automatically mixes the formula in from the sides every time you open the bottle, so it always stays fresh.

What I think: I was so excited to try this mascara. The design of the bottle and brush are so different, but really easy to use. The short, rubber brush catches all of the lashes. I thought it might give me a dramatic look, but it is more of a natural, everyday mascara. Maybe, with more practice it will lengthen and thicken my short lashes!

Available at Lancome.com and Lancôme counters nationwide.

Whish Key Lime Collection — Treat your skin to a big slice of moisture with Whish’s Key Lime summer range. Including all their most loved products: Shave Crave, Body Wash, Sugar Scrub, Body Butter and Shave Savour Hair Inhibiting Gel, the Key Lime range will leave you feeling fresh, smelling delicious, and ready to take on that beach party with confidence!

Extremely dry skin needs an extremely efficient solution; Whish products contain organic ingredients such as Shea Butter, Coconut Milk and Aloe to soothe skin while active ingredients such as Chapparel Extract and Panthenol create dramatic, long lasting results. Beautifying yourself should always be a luxurious experience — and now it can be with Whish!

What I think: I have been testing the Sugar Scrub ($38 12oz) and the Three Whishes Body Butter ($24 5oz). I love the tangy, lime scent. It really smells like key lime pie! The sugar scrub erases all dry skin and the yummy body butter leaves it so smooth. I also love that Whish uses natural and organic ingredients.

Available at http://www.nordstrom.com

ANEW Clinical Absolute Even Dark Circle Corrector ($34 USD) — Instantly transform your eye area to banish the look of dark circles. The scientists at Avon have developed the Avon ANEW Clinical Absolute Even Dark Circle Corrector to help brighten the look of dark circles. A lightweight formula that visibly brightens under-eye shadows, the ANEW Clinical Absolute Even Dark Circle Corrector is a game-changing powerful new eye treatment that offers both instant brightening effects and improvement in the look of dark circles over time. The potent corrector is so effective, it’s clinically shown to improve dark circles by 31% while reducing the look of dark circles by one grade. It visibly brightens even the darkest under eye shadows.

What I think: This is such a cool product! I have been using it for a couple of weeks. When I apply it, it imparts a lightening effect and my dark circles look instantly better. I have also noticed that my under eye circles aren’t as dark as they were. I’m going to continue using this and hope to see even more improvement.

Available exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit www.avon.com.

EM Michelle Phan Waterliner in Teal Tease ($18 USD) — this richly pigmented liner grabs everywhere, including your waterline—without budging or smudging.

What I think: This is such a fun summer color! I have been enjoying using it in the heat and humidity because it doesn’t budge! I would definitely love to try darker colors for fall.

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

Amarte, the prestige Korean skin care brand, has just launched their new Aqua Line, a four-piece collection of light, fresh skin care focused on natural antioxidant brightening and hydration. Ideal for updating your summer skin care regimen, the new Amarte lineup features gel-like formulas and refreshing citrus scents to lighten any beauty routine without compromising visible results.

The Aqua Line consists of a cooling toner, a pure hydration serum, a light nutrient-dense lotion and a concentrated 1% retinol cream that soften and hydrate skin while evening tone and visibly brightening even the most sensitive complexions. The scientific skin care system elegantly blends antioxidants including ginko and chamomile with brightening agents including arbutin and purified elemental sulfur.

What I think: I have been testing the toner and lotion. I love the light scents and formulas. Perfect for the hot summer and going into the fall. I have been using toners a lot this summer, and this one smells fantastic and is very cooling. The lotion is perfect for morning and night — it is so moisturizing, but not greasy at all.

Available at http://www.amarteskincare.com

Get Your Beauty Routine Ready For Summer, Part 2

Part two of my summer prep spectacular brings body care and hair care! Time to moisturize that parched skin and hair!

In this post, I review body skin care from NeriumFirm, SeabuckWonders, Teadora, and L’Occitane plus hair care from John Frieda and Phlip B.

NeriumFirm Body Contouring Cream ($98 USD) –NeriumFirm is formulated to reduce the appearance of cellulite and dimpling to help smooth, tighten and firm loose skin and to help restore the appearance of youthful contour, tone and texture – perfect to get beach body ready!

What I think: My body definitely needs firming and contouring so I have been using this for a few weeks now. I have noticed that my skin on my thighs seem smoother and my waist seems a little tighter — nice! I will definitely continue to use this!

Available at www.mynerium.com

Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion ($14.97 USD for 6 fl. oz.) — Intensely moisturizing, Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion rejuvenates and replenishes the skin’s natural balance, softening and nourishing for silky, touchable skin. Its high concentration of sea buckthorn oil allows for superior moisture retention while protecting the skin from signs of aging and the effects of exposure to the sun.

What I think: This is so moisturizing without being greasy at all. It also soothes my dry skin. Our air conditioner wasn’t working for the last couple of days and as I work from home, I was stuck in front of a computer in 85 degrees. Well, my skin dried out, and this made it much softer. After my shower, I smoothed this lotion on and my skin went “aaaah”! Love! The only downside is that is smells kind of like hay. Not very fragrant, but good for my skin!

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

Teadora Nourishing Body Butter ($45 for 8 oz.) — has a unique blend of Brazilian ingredients protects and helps repair your skin’s moisture barrier—to keep skin smooth and supple 24 hours a day. We use stem cells from the Argan tree—one of the oldest species on earth—to help rejuvenate your skin’s middle layer, where wrinkles start.

Teadora comes in two scents so that everyone can find a product that suits them. Rainforest at Dawn is vibrant & woodsy—yet floral—it awakens your senses and readies you for the day ahead. Rainforest at Dusk is flowery & smooth—with a hint of fruit—it soothes and revitalizes your senses after a long day.

What I think: I have been using this all over at night, especially on my dry elbows and knees, and I have found that in the morning, my skin is so much softer. Both scents are extremely woodsy. I like the Rainforest at Dusk the best. I wouldn’t call it flowery, more herbal and spicy. I don’t care for the Rainforest at Dusk because it smells a bit like soil, very foresty, though.

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

L’OCCITANE Mer & Mistral Body Milk ($20 USD, 6 fl. oz.) — This energizing gel moisturizes and refreshes the skin, leaving behind the aquatic and aromatic scent of the Mer & Mistral fragrance. Enriched with shea butter, skin is left smooth, supple and perfumed with the aromatic chord of cypress, pine and rosemary.

What I think: This is a very light gel lotion and smells fantastic, really fresh and clean. It is a unisex scent, either for women or men, and I can see why. And it’s light enough for that guy who doesn’t like greasy lotions.

Available at usa.loccitane.com.

Philip B. Katira Hair Masque ($40 for 6 oz)– a versatile rejuvenator is for all hair types. The clear-gel formula sinks right in to plump up fine, limp strands or calm and smooth course, hard-to-manage hair. Think of it as an amped-up, squeaky-clean version of a deep-conditioning treatment. A high-tech L-Amino Acid Complex infuses your hair with a perfect dose of moisture and nourishing proteins for enhanced control and elasticity. Coat clean, wet or dry hair with the masque comb it through from roots to ends evenly. Leave on until dry or overnight. Rinse well after use!

What I think: I think that this is a cool hair mask. You can leave it in as long as you like. Once you rinse it out,

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

John Frieda Styling Tools by Conair Satin Finish Flat Iron ($54.99 USD) — John Frieda Sleek Finish 1 1/2″ Flat Iron offers extra-long straightening plates with advanced ionic conditioning and true ceramic heater. Plus, it has ceramic titanium-coated plates that take only 15-seconds to heat up to 455 degrees Fahrenheit.

What I think: Love this flat iron! It works very well on my wavy hair. Plus it straightens and shines! I think this is an affordable way to really straighten hair and not damage it.

Available at beauty stores such as http://www.ulta.com

Enjoy!

Bath and Body Products To Keep You Fresh This Summer!

Did you have a great Memorial Day weekend? I did! Even though it rained a lot, I got to enjoy some sun. So I’ve decided to review some of the summer products that I have been loving.

Below are reviews of sunscreen, moisturizers and a natural deodorant. These products are perfect for this time of year.

I hope you enjoy these reviews and maybe find a great summer product you’ll love!

L’Occitane Jenipapo Body Jelly Milk ($30 USD) — With a light jelly cream texture and SPF 20, this protective body milk enriched with vegetal ingredients helps prevent sunburns while moisturizing the skin with a non-greasy protective film. Containing a jenipapo extract from the Cerrado region of Brazil, this body jelly milk leaves skin delicately fragranced with a green, fruity floral scent.

What I think: This is such a great, fragranced lotion that is so light for every day use. I love to put this on in the morning knowing that I have sun protection and great moisturization in one step. And it smells fantastic!

Available at www.usa.loccitane.com.

Korres Body Butter in White Grape ($29 USD) — This soothing body cream will transport you and your sense to the Greek island of Santorini. Smoothing and moisturizing body cream, ideal for dry elbows, heels and knees. Shea butter and Quince extract have softening, moisturizing and restructuring properties. Sunflower, Almond and Avocado oils nourishes the skin, thus restoring its elasticity and smoothness. The body butter offers a distinct, naturally sweet aroma, influenced by the volcanic soil and the sea air. Also, the scent has notes of green apple, floral, citrus and peach for the ultimate Greek Summer sensorial experience!

What I think: This is a perfect after-sun lotion. It is thick, but not greasy at all. Plus it really soothes skin after being out in the sun. It has a rich, fresh scent. Love!

Where to Purchase: HSN.com

Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Body Butter in Fresh Vanilla Lemon ($19 USD) — Fresh Vanilla Lemon: The Bright and Clean Scent. A refreshing blend of juicy lemon, watery fruits and pure vanilla softly scents skin. Instant Hydration. This super soft, all-natural body butter absorbs instantly for deeply hydrated, luxuriously soft skin. 100% pure Shea & Cocoa Butters blend with powerful antioxidants and essential oils for long-lasting hydration. With super soft scents and a non-greasy formula, prepare for the ultimate indulgence.

What I think: I love the scent of lemon, and this is so good! It has the bright lemon scent with warm vanilla notes. And it is really moisturizing. I love to keep this one at work, because the fresh scent doesn’t offend anyone.

Purchase at www.lavanila.com

Schmidt’s Deodorant ($9 USD) –By eliminating underarm odor and wetness without the use of harmful chemicals, Schmidt’s offers a no-guilt alternative to conventional brands. Free of aluminum, propylene glycol, parabens & phthalates.

What I think: I like this deodorant, it works so much better for me than I thought it might. I usually need the heavy-duty clinical strength deodorant. This keeps me dry, which is amazing, but my natural odor does start to mingle with the deodorant after a few hours. Which isn’t bad, but I don’t like to smell at all. I can see using this on the weekends when I want to take a break from the clinical deodorant.

Available at http://www.schmidtsdeodorant.com

Enjoy the start of summer!

Mother’s Day Beauty Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day is a little over a week away, time to get Mom a great gift! I usually send my mom a package of beauty products for Mother’s Day and I know she loves trying something new.

Below are a few great beauty products to give that special lady on Mother’s Day.

L’Occitane Néroli and Orchidée Collector’s Set (85 USD, a $113 value) — A tantalizing and lovely fragrance, Néroli & Orchidée blends the scents of two precious white flowers in a beautiful harmony. A heart of radiant neroli essence from the Mediterranean is blended with caressing white orchid absolute from Madagascar.

This set includes:
-Néroli & Orchidée Eau de Toilette 2.5 fl.oz
-Néroli & Orchidée Shower Gel 6 fl.oz
-Néroli & Orchidée Body Milk 6 fl.oz

Available at usa.loccitane.com.

Laura Mercier Verbena Infusion Gel Body Moisture

Inspired by her hometown of Provence, Laura Mercier’s new Eau Fraiche: Verbena Infusion Collection captures the crisp freshness of Verbena. Take your mom on a journey to the French countryside with one of these three refreshing formulas: Gel Body Moisture ($45 USD), Crème Body Cleanse ($30 USD), Eau de Toilette ($55 USD).

Available at http://www.lauramercier.com

Aveda’s stress-fix™ Home Spa Experience ($73.50 USD) — With Mother’s Day less than two weeks away, give mom the gift she wants and needs – less stress! For under $75 pamper mom with Aveda’s stress-fix™ Home Spa Experience. The proven stress-relieving stress-fix™ aroma blends calming organic French lavender with uplifting, blues-chasing organic clary sage (a Mediterranean herb) and relaxing, mood-enhancing organic lavindin (a hybrid of true and spike lavender) for an extra-aromatic experience.

Each set includes:

stress-fix™ body lotion 200 ml – a richly moisturizing lotion with organic aloe, organic shea butter and organic sunflower oil designed to relax the mind and lavish skin
travel size stress-fix™ soaking salts 6 oz – mineral rich salts to soften skin while easing anxiety formulated with organic sugar and organic sunflower oil
stress-fix™ concentrate 7 ml – a potent essential oil blend that includes antioxidant vitamin E and skin conditioning organic sunflower and olive oils

The stress-fix™ Home Spa Experience gift set come pre-wrapped and ready for giving… which hopefully helps reduce your stress too!

Availability: Aveda.com

Thymes Aqua Coralline Body Scrub ($$22 USD): An energizing body scrub full of rich humectants and jojoba beads to hydrate and exfoliate. Mineral-rich kelp extract and sea buckthorn transform and protect, providing care and moisture for thirsty skin.

Available at www.thymes.com.

KriglerExtraordinaire Camelia ²09 ($255 1.7oz, $345 3.4 oz): Created in 2009 to celebrate Krigler’s 105^th anniversary, Extraordinaire Camelia ²09 gathers two sorts of Camellias flowers, corsican lemon, pink peppercorn from Florida, Indian cardamom, Bourbon Vanilla, Musk de Baur, Cedar and Chinese Tea. Camellia symbolizes excellence, pride, abnegation and modesty.

Availible at www.Krigler.com.

Fresh Spring Bath And Body Care From Caress, Whish, Curel, Osmotics and Orico London

I find that now that I am wearing short-sleeved shirts and capri’s and showing more skin, I really want it looking and feeling it’s best. So I have been using more moisturizing and fresh-smelling products than in winter.

The following products not only make your skin smell and feel great, but look good, too. Now all I need is a little self tanner and I will be ready for summer!

Whish Body Oil in Blueberry ($28 USD) — Whish Body Oil works to restore your skin’s natural luminance, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and soothing inflamed skin while providing you with long-lasting moisture. Its blend of sesame and sunflower seed oils moisturize, olive leaf extract and jojoba oil soothe and Dermaxyl is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles and fine lines while enhancing your skin’s overall luminance.

What I think: I love this oil because it sinks into the skin and doesn’t leave it greasy. It is perfect to use after a shower when skin is still damp because it locks in the moisture and skin is soft all day. The blueberry scent is nice, but it also comes in Almond, Coconut, Lavender, Lemongrass and Pomegranate.

Available at shop.nordstrom.com/s/whish-body-oil.

Curel Daily Moisture Lotion ($7.99 USD) — As you make the transition into warmer weather this spring, make sure to give your skin the everyday therapy it needs! Daily Moisture Lotion from Curél® Skincare is your once a day solution to continuously moisturized skin. This lotion is formulated with time released moisturizers and mimics the skin’s natural function, replenishing its essential protection mechanism – ceramides – to lock moisture for a full 24 hours. Daily Moisture Lotion is dermatologist tested, non greasy and quickly absorbent, leaving your skin smooth, hydrated and satisfied.

What I think: This lotion really keeps my skin soft all day, and I love that it isn’t greasy. Perfect for every day use and for people who need a little extra moisture.

Available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

Caress Body Wash ($3.50 USD) — Caress has recently released 3 new body washes in fantastic spring scents. They are from left to right in the photo above:

Aqua Sparkle — infused with lilac blossoms and aquamarine essence to invigorate the senses.

Emerald Rush –infused with lush gardenia and white tea essence to revitalize the senses.

Juicy Escape — infused with sun-kissed lily and pink grapefruit essence to uplift the senses.

Kelly Rowland is the new Caress ambassador. She is excited to inspire women to enjoy every day experiences in a fresh way. She knows how important it is to start every morning feeling fabulous, which is why she uses the new Caress Fresh Body Wash Collection (her favorite being the Emerald Rush.)

What I think: I love Emerald Rush too, but I think Juicy Escape is my favorite. They all smell fantastic! I like using them as a bubble bath.

You can join the talk about these great products on twitter #caressme and you can purchase them at a mass market retailer near you.

Orico Jazzy Moisturizing Body Wash ($19 USD)– is filled with the delicious fruity aromas of orange and mandarin essential oils. Natural moisturizers and antioxidants will gently cleanse and refresh your skin while also helping to regenerate cells, boost elasticity and revitalize and tone your skin with the help of Kigelia and Hibiscus.

What I think: This moisturizing wash is perfect for the summer time. The fragrance is light and clean and my skin is so soft after using this. This is perfect when you want a little luxury in the bath or shower.

Available at OricoLondon.com

Osmotics Sugar Scrub Body Polish ($38 USD) — will polish your skin to perfection even leaving the driest skin soft and silky smooth. Sugar is an excellent, yet gentle exfoliator that encourages the production of natural moisturizing factors in the skin. This luxurious body treatment is bound to leave your skin feeling smooth without any trace of oily residue.

What I think: I always stock up on scrubs in the summer. It helps get rid of dry skin from sun exposure and it is needed to prep skin for self-tanning. This one does not leave my skin greasy and I love it!

Available at Osmotics.com

Enjoy!

Liven Up Your Bath or Shower With Fresh New Bath Products This Spring

Lately I have been sent some fab bath and body products for my honest review. And I love it! The scents this spring are so refreshing, florals mixed with fruit is a big trend as are tropical notes.

Below are some great suggestions if you are looking for spring-y bath and body products to get you ready for the wonderful warm weather coming (80 degrees in KC tomorrow, what?!?):

Caldrea Essentials Collection Mango Lily Body Wash

Caldrea Essential Collection is excited to debut their first ever Personal Care Collection. The line-up will include a range of 5 products perfect for getting your body iand mind nto shape this spring/summer – Body Oil, Body Lotion, Body Wash, Hand Balm and Exfoliating Scrub – retailing from $6.99-$12.99 in the following three fragrances:

Apple Mint – Add a spring in your step with natural essential oils of Spearmint and Cedarwood

Ginger Honey – Natural Essential oils of Ginger and Nutmeg offer a mix of a zing of good clean health with a deliciously awake sensation

Mango Lily – Juicy tropical notes find white freshness in the clean and floral notes of lily, with this mix of natural essential oils of Orange and Vanilla

My favorite is the Mango Lily, because I am loving mango scented products right now, but they are all wonderful! This collection is exclusively created for/sold at Target.

Make your bath work for you! There is no better combo than relaxation paired with anti-aging benefits, right? Toss your current suds for the newly launched Aqua Spa ($9.99 USD for each product), a trio of bath and body collections designed with a hydrating cocktail of deep sea minerals to transform a traditional bath into a spa inspired experience.

Combining the power of aromatherapy and its Marine Youth Complex, an exclusive anti-aging formulation, Aqua Spa invites you to mix and match the Energize, Relax and Soothe collections to alter your current mood. The three available scents include:

Energize- a fusion of citrus and ginger that sharpens the senses
Relax- a mixture of lavender and chamomile for calming relief
Soothe- a combination of eucalyptus and mint

Quench your skin and help to diminish the signs of aging with Aqua Spa Bath Soaks, Bath Oils, Body Cleansers and Body Crèmes, all available at Walmart stores and online at http://www.amazon.com. I have tried the bath soak and body cleanser in Energize and really enjoy the crisp scent.

Fairway Market Castile Soap — Introducing Fairway’s veggie-based and all-natural Castile Soap. Originating in Castile, Spain, this multi-purpose and olive-oil based soap is gentle but tough, and can be used as an everyday body wash, shampoo, bubble bath, facial cleanser and hand soap.

Fairway’s newest product is sold at all Fairway locations and in six different varieties including: Almond, Baby Unscented Mild, Black Soap w/ Vitamin E, Eucalyptus, Lavender and Peppermint.

Fairway’s Peppermint Castile Soap is sold for $8.99 and all other varieties are sold for $9.99. in all Fairway Markets. The Castile Soap can also be purchased online for $7.99 – http://www.fairwaymarket.com/shop/fairway-castile-soap/

I think the fact that this is a multi-use soap is brilliant. I am using it as a hand soap in my kitchen and have used it to clean my face and body. I have it in Almond, which is one of my favorite bath scent.

re day dreaming of sparkling blue seas and sunny destinations, transport your basic shower into a Greek escape with Korres Natural Products Showergels ($19.50 USD). beautifully scented, rich showergels provide a moisturizing effect and help maintain the natural moisture level of the skin. They contain emollients and humectants that provide a lasting moisturizing effect and help to maintain the natural moisture level of the skin.

Available in Basil Lemon, Guava, Fig, Jasmine, Japanase Rose, Vanilla Guava for at Sephora.com. This April, Korres is introducing its newest scent White Grape from the Vineyards of Santorini on HSN.com.

And for the kids…Get wildly excited for the new exclusive Avon’s Naturals Kids Rio 2 collection, developed just in time for the highly anticipated movie in theaters April 11, 2014. Colorfully decorated with the vivacious and memorable Amazonian animal characters from Rio 2, Blu, Jewel, Gabi, Pedro, Nico, Luiz and Rafael, this limited edition collection includes deliciously scented hair and body care items designed specifically for kids ages 3 and up. With gentle formulas for young, sensitive skin, the fun and irresistible collection will delight young fans of the movie and keep parents worry-free with its dermatologist tested formulas.

Magnificent Mango Body Wash & Bubble Bath ($5): Make bath time your little one’s favorite time of day with this tropical mango-scented formula that doubles as a cleansing body wash and a fun bubble bath. The hypoallergenic formula works into a rich lather and is ophthalmologist tested, helping you avoid a single tear.

Crazy Coconut Shampoo & Conditioner ($5): This gentle, tear free formula turns a daily bath into a tropical getaway while keeping hair happy, smooth, and shiny. The 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner is ophthalmologist tested and hypoallergenic, perfect for children’s hair and scalps.

All Avon products are available exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit www.avon.com.

Magnificent Mango Hair Detangling Spray ($5): Formulated specifically for your children’s hair, this hydrating spray instantly detangles hair while leaving it ultra-shiny and free of flyaways and frizzies. Safely keep delicate young hair smooth and soft with the ophthalmologist tested, tear free formula.

Rio 2 Detangling Comb ($3): The comb is perfect combination with the detangling spray making hair prep stress free.

Magnificent Mango Lip Balm ($.99): This mild and gentle moisturizing lip balm glides onto little lips and provides immediate hydration.

Crazy Coconut Body Paint ($1.99): Add exciting color to your children’s day with this gentle body paint. Roll the hypoallergenic formula over the body for quick designs and then easily rinse the paint off with water. No mess for you, and tons of smiles for little ones.

My daughter has been using these products. She loves them! And I have noticed that since she has been using the Mango detangling spray, her hair always smells amazing! And I love that the products are natural, so important for kids products.

Fragrances And Bath Products to Transition to Spring

Spring is almost here! Time to put heavy fragrances away and to take care of your skin!

Below are some great fragrance and bath products that will get you ready for spring. Exotic fragrances, a soothing bath soak, shaving oil and mango bath products will update your beauty cabinets for the new, warmer season ahead!

Lavanila Vanilla Coconut ($58 1.7 oz) — This exotic blend of young coconut, Tahitian tiare flower, and warm Madagascar vanilla is created by master natural perfumers who use only the finest pure essential oils. Carefree and tropical, escape to the island of healthy delights.

What I think: This scent makes me think of summer and warm, tropical breezes. I love Lavanila, because the fragrances are natural and they smell fantastic!

Available at www.lavanila.com

RISE Beyoncé ($44.00 1.7 fl. oz.) To create this exciting new scent Beyoncé partnered with Loc Dong, a perfumer at IFF, to design a melodic mélange of accords that leave a lasting impression. RISE is a rich and intoxicating luminous floral with beautiful top notes of Italian Bergamot, Golden Apricot and Iced Basil Sorbet; Luscious middle notes of Gold Symphony Orchid, Freesia Blossom and Natural Jasmine Sambac and sensual bottom notes that include Autumn Woods Accord, Cashmere Musk and Vetiver Extract.

Gold is also featured prominently in the RISE bottle designed by Ken Hirst. The gold juice is encased in a tall, elegant glass bottle that emulates the trajectory of Beyoncé’s ability, and will, to rise above it all.

What I think — loving this new one by Beyoncé. This is fresh and floral, perfect for spring and the hot summer months.

Available at mass market retailers.

güd by Burt’s Bees Mango Moonbreeze Collection ($6.99 each product) –Think tropical island getaway on a moonlit starry night. This amazing new collection is available in shampoo, conditioner, body lotion and body wash. Infused with all natural ingredients including lemon, bergamot, and plum, these products will help you fight dry hair and skin from head to toe with a burst of much-needed moisture.

What I think: I am a big mango fan, so these products were right up my alley! I love coordinating products, hair and bath that use the same fragrance. And these are natural and so good for my skin and hair! Affordable, too.

Available at Target stores and Target.com

Mio Liquid Yoga ($40): A perfect-milky moisturizing blend of essential oils, mineral salts (including EPSOM salts!) and therapeutic herbs. Liquid Yoga is your personal masseuse in a bottle; helping with muscle fatigue, relaxing tight, stressed shoulders and soothing tired, achy bodies whilst detoxifying and re-energizing. Non-foaming, SLS free.

What I think: Have you been working out? Or just working (job, being a mom, etc…)? This soak makes sore muscles feel so much better! It has a nice herbal scent and totally relaxes me. I highly recommend this product if you love baths like I do!

Purchase at mioskincare.com/shop-mio/liquid-yoga

Somersets Extra Sensitive Shaving Oil for Women ($6.99 USD) — Packaged in a tiny bullet-shaped container, one 15ml bottle yields up to a month of shaves! Just four to five drops per leg enables women to get a close, smooth shave without nicks, cuts or razor burn. Somersets Extra Sensitive Shaving Oil for Women is formulated with a proprietary blend of organic essential oils such as Lavender, Tea Tree and Rosemary, which help to create a lubricating barrier between the skin and the razor, providing more glide for a truly comfortable shave.

What I think: I think this is such a unique idea, a shaving oil. It works well, after you get use to not having foam or a cream. Make sure that you use enough, because it is a thin oil.

Somersets Shaving Oils for Women are available online at www.somersetsusa.com and www.drugstore.com as well as select food/drug stores nationwide.

Enjoy the new season!

National Bubble Bath Day — and a Neutrogena Giveaway!

Bubble Bath Day is here! Today, Wednesday, January 8^th is National Bubble Bath Day! I favor baths over showers, so I was excited to learn this!

And to my joy, I received samples of Neutrogena Rainbath® Refreshing Shower and Bath Gel ($7.99 for 8.5 oz) for my honest review.

Available in Original, Pear & Green Tea and Grapefruit, Rainbath® creates a rich, conditioning lather with ingredients that leave skin feeling irresistibly clean, smooth and refreshed. Rainbath® can even be applied as a skin-softening shaving gel for legs, helping save time and money on unnecessary products.

I have just taken my bath with the Pear & Green Tea Rainbath® and I’m in love! I have always wanted to try this product and it is just as great as I had thought it would be. The scent is amazingly fresh (I also love the spicy original) and it left my skin soft and clean!

You can learn more and purchase at www.neutrogena.com/product/rainbath. Also available at mass market retailers.

If you’d like to try out Neutrogena Rainbath®, I’m giving away 2 bottles — 1 bottle each to two lucky readers!. Just leave a comment below, and I’ll select a winner at random.

The scents will vary, so it will be a surprise when you receive it! You may enter until Thursday, January 23rd. I will announce 2 winners on Friday, January 24th and will also email the winners. Good Luck!

Holiday Bath and Body Gift Guide Part 2

Holiday bath and body gift sets are the perfect gift for ladies who are hard to buy for. I will be using some of these sets below as gifts for teachers, co-workers and relatives.

Receiving one of these gifts is lovely because it is such a treat to try new bath products.

Osmotics Spa Connoisseur Collection ($85 USD) — We all have that special woman in our lives who deserves only the best. For the holidays, give her the Osmotics Spa Connoisseur Collection. The gorgeous gift box is filled with luxuriously fragrant and soothing products, perfect for relaxing and feeling pampered.

MOISTURE LOCK Body Wash (4 OZ) – Treat her skin to the ultimate bathing experience! This sulfate free, moisturizing formula is perfect for all skin types and contains aloe vera, glycerin and soothing botanicals to gently cleanse and hydrate leaving skin silky smooth and soft.
SUGAR SCRUB Body Polish (5 OZ) – This fragrant concoction of natural sugar, exotic oils and skin pampering vitamins polishes to perfection, leaving even the driest skin, soft and silky smooth – perfect for relieving the skin from the effects of the dry winter air!
MOISTURE REPAIR Body Shimmer (4 OZ) – Enjoy glowing, smooth, beautiful skin with our luxurious body treatment. A combination of naturally fragrant oils, antioxidant vitamins and soothing botanicals moisturize, repair, and protect skin. A hint of shimmer erases imperfections and enhances skin tone to reveal a healthy, radiant glow.

Available at HenriBendel.com

Don’t sacrifice luxury for hydrated and healthy skin this winter. With Lisa Hoffman Beauty’s sumptuous collection of body products you can deeply hydrate skin while indulging in two of Lisa’s most popular scents, Japanese Agarwood and Madagascar Orchid. Perfect for treating yourself or gifting this holiday season, the Spa Bath & Body collection is a sublime way to wear fragrance your way! Body Lotion: This super lightweight formula absorbs instantly, leaving skin satiny smooth and bathed in an earthy, sophisticated fragrance. Price: $16-$34 Body Wash: Lightly fragranced with the essence of precious, rare woods, this renewing body wash leaves skin hydrated and refreshed. Price: $16-$28 Key Ingredients: Collagen-boosting Ginkgo Biloba leaf extract; Bamboo Leaf & Stem extract, abundant in antioxidants and vitamins; and skin softening Aloe Leaf juice.

Available at www.lisahoffmanbeauty.com

VMV Hypoallergenics My VMVery Favorite Things ($35 USD) — a brown paper package tied up with string, full of your favorite VMV things! As smile-inducing as a box of chocolate samplers sans the calories.

Seven of their greatest hits, sized for on-the-“glow” portability. From basics to powerful protection, moisture to multi-tasking therapy, these popular pickings are guaranteed to keep those at the top of your list skin the pink of health all year long. The items included are:

Re-Everything Face-Hand-Body Lotion

Head-to-toe anti-aging glow! 30 mL (1 Fl Oz).

Id Sweat Acne and Overall Anti-bacterial Gel

Our multitasker: treats bumps, disinfects, keeps skin cool, fresh + matte. 50 mL (1.69 Fl Oz).

Armada Sport SPF 70

A wait-in-line-for-it fave for its skincredibly light feel + powerful protection. 15 g (0.53 Oz).

SuperSkin Care Creammmy Rich Intensive Moisture Milk for Dry Skin

A skinfully-rich, custardy cream for the most drying of times. 30 mL (1.01 Fl Oz).

Know-It-Oil

Clinically-validated, USDA-certified organic virgin coconut oil. Almost too many benefits + uses to count! 50 mL (1.69 Fl Oz).

Grandma Minnie’s Mommycoddling All-Over Lotion

A sublimel head-to-toe favorite of babes of all ages. 75mL (2.5 Fl Oz).

Essence Skin-Saving Superwash Hair and Body Milk Shampoo

A uniquely-gentle, non-drying bath experience. Over 20 years of popularity. 50 mL (1.69 Fl. Oz). www.vmvhypoallergenics.com

Shu Uemura 6 Princess Cleansing Oil — Shu Uemura 6 Hearts Princess Cleansing Oil

Shu Uemura 6 Hearts Princess Cleansing Oil — Anti/Oxi skin refining anti-dullness cleansing oil 450ml The ever-popular anti-pollution cleansing oil comes in festive packaging designed by Takashi Murakami. When the spell is lifted, your skin will be enwrapped with imperial comfort.

Purchase at www.shuuemura-usa.com

L’Occitane Shea Embrace ($68 USD) — Since the 1980’s L’OCCITANE has created sustainable, fair trade partnerships with the Shea-producing women of Burkina Faso. For a gift that gives back, choose this luxurious body care set, infused with protective and nourishing Shea. The kit includes Shea Hand Cream, Shea Foot Cream, Shea Body Cream, Shea Soap Milk, and Shea Ultra Rich Shower Cream.

Where to Purchase: usa.loccitane.com

H2O Plus All The Pretty Brights – Bath Basics Favorites

H2O Plus Merry Raspberry Bath Basics Duo ($10 USD) — The perfect stocking stuffer, this bath duo doubles as a tree ornament and comes with a moisture-rich shower gel and body balm in an exotic Raspberry Guava scent for a sensory-awakening bath experience. The formula blends luscious berry and tropical guava essences with highly emollient shea butter to help heal and protect winter-ravaged skin.

Available at Ulta, www.Ulta.com & www.H2OPlus.com

Enjoy

Beauty Stocking Stuffers

Looking for the perfect stocking stuffers for the ladies in your life? Here are some really fun beauty products that are fabulous and under $25!

ChapStick® Holiday Tins ($4.99 USD) in new colorful and fashionable designs are available for a limited time. Plaid and Snowflake tins containing Strawberry, Cherry and Spearmint Classic ChapStick® varieties and the Diagonal Candy Cane Stripe tin containing limited-edition Candy Cane are available exclusively at Walmart for the SRP of $4.99 each

The ChapStick® product and information have been provided by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare for my honest review. I think these are a great value and a really great gift!

bliss mistletoe must-haves ($12 , a $24 value) – This mega-moisturizing duo for lips and hands includes the fabulips softening lip balm and 1 oz. high intensity hand cream.

Available at BlissWorld.com, Sephora, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom

Violent Lips The Red Snowflake (9.99 for a set of three) and are available in the snowflake print above as well as fun holiday glitter prints! Just apply like a temporary tattoo.

Available Online at www.Violentlips.com

tarte thoughtful treasures best-sellers set ($19 USD) — A limited-edition, deluxe-sized collection of tarte’s best-selling favorites. The limited-edition set features:

• deluxe maracuja oil

• deluxe Amazonian clay 12-hour blush in limited edition thankful (golden pink)

• deluxe LipSurgence™ skintuitive lip tint in energy

Tarte has taken the guesswork out of giving with a handpicked collection of their favorites that’s simply the best. These charming deluxe sizes of best-selling maracuja oil, Amazonian clay 12-hour blush and LipSurgence™ skintuitive lip tint deliver a radiant and rested appearance even on the fly.

Available at http://www.tartecosmetics.com

The perfect stocking stuffer or 12 days of Christmas present, Goody offers ornaments, gift wrap, and bows that double as hair accessories. Dress up the tree or an adorable package with a headwrap, elastics, or clips that are also a festive accessory to wear to parties. $3.99-$5.99, Target, Walmart, Kmart, and CVS.

Yes to Cucumbers On-The-Go Facial Towelettes ($2.99 for 10) Our famed facial towelettes in mini! These all-natural and hypoallergenic Towelettes and made with soothing ingredients like cucumbers, green tea, and aloe. They fit right into your purse, gym bag or even your TSA size clear plastic bag! Regardless of where you are (let’s imagine Hawaii) your skin will feel gorgeous, hydrated, smooth and most of all refreshed!

Available at www.yestocarrots.com and mass market retailers near you.

Gifts for your girlfriends are always tough. You don’t want to overspend, but you want it to be meaningful. Bodycology offers fantastic sets at Walmart and Target under $20 including Soothing Body Scrubs and Body Butters, Travel Cases, a Sock Set, and an adorable Scrubbing Mitt with hand and body lotion.

Blowpro textstyle, mini dry texture spray ($9.50 USD) — Versatile formula allows you to set textured styles in just seconds. Quick-dry dispense provides dramatic definition that works to not only build desired texture, but controls grease and oil buildup. Our brushable blend of ingredients and Lasting-flex® technology with built in memory allows you to re-create your style the next day.

Available at www.shop.blowpro.com.

Hope these ideas help! Have fun stuffing stockings!