Skincare – Page 30 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

My Beauty Favorites — Week of May 16-21, 2016

It’s getting hotter every day in Kansas City! I’m not a fan of hot weather, but I know that since it’s coming, I need to adjust my beauty routine accordingly.

This week I’m loving body makeup for smooth-looking legs, amazing argan oil to moisturize my skin and hair, makeup removing cloths for easy cleansing and moisturizing body washes:

Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs ($13.99 USD) — One of Sally Hansen’s best-selling products, Airbrush Legs^® Leg Makeup is a lightweight leg makeup that leaves legs looking smooth and sexy all day long. The formula infused with Palmaria Extract, helps cover imperfections like veins, freckles or bruises and stimulate microcirculation. This long lasting, fast drying formula is transfer and water resistant. The spray-on formula blends seamlessly into skin for gorgeous and flawless legs. It is available in six natural-looking shades with a luminous finish: Fairest Glow, Light Glow, Beige Glow, Medium Glow, Tan Glow, and Deep Glow and is also available in a Lotion form.

This spring, Sally Hansen is bringing bare-legged beauty to your fingertips. The brand is teaming up with PRIV, a popular on-demand beauty app that allows users to order their favorite beauty services right to their doors. The partnership will bring the brand’s revolutionary Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup directly to women in select markets across the country. Beginning in April through August, consumers in New York, NY, Hamptons, NY, Los Angeles, CA and Austin, TX will receive a professional application of Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup from one of PRIV’s top stylists with any beauty service ordered through the app or on PRIV.com. The coveted product will be applied right in the consumers’ own homes by an expert makeup artist, who will also teach fans how to use the spring essential with a step-by-step tutorial during application. As an added bonus, fans will also receive a complimentary bottle of Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup.

What I think: This is the first time I have tried this product. I received this in Light and Medium. I decided to try Light now, since I don’t have a tan yet. Sad news for my legs, you are even lighter than Light Airbrush Legs! It actually gave me darker color along with evening out my skin tone. It was so easy to use, too. I sprayed it on my legs, then blended it in with my hands, but the directions are to spray on hands and blend in legs. Either way, it worked, plus it dried very quickly. I am using this all summer!

Available at Drugstores nationwide

Josie Maran 100% Pure Agran Oil — Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil ($48 USD) — A bottle of only the very top-grade, 100% natural, 100% pure, and 100% organic beautifying Argan Oil. 100% Pure Argan Oil, Josie Maran’s number one, best-selling, blockbuster natural beauty solution for dry skin, hair, and nails, is still a cult favorite. Made in Morocco by local women’s co-ops and first cold-pressed to preserve quality, this “liquid gold” nourishing oil remains the go-to beauty must-have for those in the know.

What I think: I have tried samples of this oil before, but haven’t really used it every day until now. I have been using it all over — my face, neck, hair, hands, arms and legs. I love how it instantly moisturizes without leaving me greasy. It also makes my skin glow and look so healthy. This is so nice after being outside in the sun (or the cold). It brings my skin and hair back to life!

Purchase at www.josiemarancosmetics.com

Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes Pink Grapefruit — Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes Pink Grapefruit

Burt’s Bees Cleansing Towelettes ($5.99 USD) — these towelettes remove dirt, oil and make-up without rinsing. These dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested cleansing towelettes combine gentle plant-based cleansers with FSC-certified cloths for a refreshing solution to easy, convenient cleansing wherever you are. There are many varieties including Pink Grapefruit, Sensitive with cotton extract, Cucumber & Sage and Peach & Willow Bark.

What I think: I have these in Pink Grapefruit. They clean really well and have such a refreshing scent. I like that they do not leave my skin dry after use. I am taking some of these on vacation this year, quick to use and easy to pack is what I need.

Purchase at http://www.burtsbees.com

CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash

CeraVe Eczema Soothing Body Wash

CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash ($10.99 USD) — Developed with dermatologists, NEW! CeraVe® Hydrating Body Wash contains a gentle, foaming formula that cleanses and moisturizes skin. The formula contains hyaluronic acid to attract needed moisture to skin’s surface and three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help repair the skin’s protective barrier. CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash also contains emollients to moisturize and soften dry skin all day. Gentle enough for even sensitive skin, CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash is non-comedogenic, non-irritating and free of fragrance, soap, parabens and sulfates; it is ideal for dry to normal skin.

CeraVe Eczema Soothing Body Wash ($15.99 USD) — Developed with dermatologists, NEW! CeraVe® Eczema Soothing Body Wash, an ultra-gentle formula, cleanses and calms extra dry, itchy, eczema-prone skin. The formula contains hyaluronic acid to attract needed moisture to skin’s surface and three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help repair the skin’s protective barrier. CeraVe Eczema Soothing Body Wash also contains Omega oils to soothe dry, itchy, irritated skin.

What I think: The hydrating body wash is so nice for everyday use. It leaves skin soft and moisturized. It’s fragrance-free and not irritating at all. My daughter has Eczema, so we try to find products that help her skin. The Eczema Soothing wash is very calming and doesn’t irritate at all. Her Eczema looks much better after use.

Purchase at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

My Beauty Favorites — Week of May 9-15, 2016

The weather has been fluctuating in Kansas City this week. I don’t know whether to wear shorts or a sweater half of the time! But I am very glad that my kids are almost out of school (one and a half weeks and counting) and am looking forward to the summer.

This week I’m loving luxe beauty tools and products. Sometimes you just have to treat yourself! The products include an amazing airbrush foundation system, a fresh berry face peel and skincare infused with mineral water.

Luminess Air Epic 2 ($299 USD — With springtime approaching, introducing lightweight makeup into your routine is key for a dewy, effortless look. The airbrush technology found in Luminess’ Epic 2 ($299) gives you complete control over your coverage. The Epic 2 uses 10 times less makeup than traditional methods, so your makeup never looks caked-on.

The Epic 2 Advantage:

Five simple functions
Airbrush Stylus Featuring the No Mess TIP.

o Provides ultra-definition coverage resulting in the smoothest, finest application of makeup possible.

o Gives you complete control with no over-spray mess

o The specially designed nozzle head creates a narrow vortex that combines air with makeup and delivers the finest mist of coverage.

What I think: This is an amazing, high tech airbrush system. It applies makeup so smoothly. And you only use a little at a time. The system also has videos built in to help you use it the best that you can. They are very informative and fun to watch. This is a great investment!

Purchase at www.luminessair.com

Renne Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel — Renee Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel

Renee Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel ($86.50) — Triple Berry Smoothing Peel by Renée Rouleau is a professional-strength, at-home exfoliant to gently peel away dullness and reveal younger-looking skin. This contains a powerful blend of antioxidant-rich berries with five skin smoothing fruit AHAs, BHAs and enzymes to clear blemishes and clogged pores, fade post-breakout marks, lift discoloration, stimulate cellular renewal and smooth surface texture while reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. Layer by layer, you’ll remove dullness to reveal younger-looking skin that has literally been resurfaced. Triple Berry Smoothing Peel is ideal to use a night or two before a special event to reveal smooth, glowing skin. The result? Beautiful, brighter and glowing skin by Renée Rouleau.

What I think: I LOVE this peel! When I applied it, it was a dark wine color and smelled (and felt, it has seeds), like rubbing smooshed berries on my face. But you only leave it on for 7 minutes and it didn’t irritate my skin at all. I used a wet face towel to wash it off and afterwards my skin was soft, smooth and my pores did look smaller. And my face was glowing! I have only used it once, but I think I will use it once a week to resurface my skin gently! Great for sensitive skin!

Purchase at http://www.reneerouleau.com

Appriya Sheer Indulgence Collection ($349 USD) — Jet set and be beautiful with the Sheer Indulgence Collection. This collection consists of the travel size Comprehensive Mineral Day & Night Cream, Delicate Zone Mineral Serum, and Mineral Complex Serum. With the Sheer Indulgence Collection, experience ultimate hydration and energize your skin for your most youthful complexion.

Gently and evenly brush on one pump of the Delicate Zone Mineral Serum around the eyes, neck and décolleté, applying light pressure with your ring finger. Follow by applying Appriya Mineral Complex Serum in a circular motion on the face and neck during your day and night skin care regimen for a moisturized, youthful looking skin. Finish with protective Appriya Comprehensive Mineral Day & Night Cream on the face and down towards the neck and chest, allowing the skin to absorb it fully.

What I think: I love these products! They are so luxe and feel amazing on. I haven’t been using them long, but I notice that my skin looks firmer and smoother. It is also very hydrated but not greasy. The products sink right in and hydrate immediately.

What beauty splurges have you been enjoying lately? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Favorites — Week of May 2-8, 2016

Happy Mother’s Day to all the fellow moms out there! I hope you are having a fabulous day!

I have, although it has been pouring down rain for most of the day. Our weather’s been fluctuating from warm and sunny, to warm and rainy all week. Spring weather is always crazy in Kansas City!

This week, I am loving multitasking skincare — many with SPF — from DDF Skincare and fresh spring leggings from No Nonsense. I was sent the below items for my honest review:

DDF Daily Protective Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF15

DDF Protective Eye Cream with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF15

DDF Pro Retinol Complex 3 Moisturizer

DDF Daily Protective Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF15, ($43 USD) — A fragrance free, antioxidant enriched daily moisturizer that helps shield skin’s surface from UV damage and free radicals that can lead to premature aging.

DDF Protective Eye Cream with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF15 ($55 USD) — A lustrous, lightweight daytime eye treatment fortified with essential fatty acids and humectants to moisturize and help minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Broad spectrum SPF helps protect the fragile eye area from future UV damage.

DDF Pro Retinol Complex 3 Moisturizer ($65 USD) — A moisturizer that mimics an in-office laser procedure by harnessing the power of Retinol, Vitamin C and Niacinamide (B3) for a smooth, even skin tone with a healthy youthful glow.

What I think: I have been using the Daily Protective Moisturizer and the Protective Eye Cream each morning, and I really love how quickly they sink in before I apply my makeup. I always wear SPF, so it is so important that my day cream have it. I love the Pro Retinol Moisturizer at night. In the morning my skin is glowing and it looks fresh and smooth!

Purchase at ddfskincare.com and Ulta stores

Modern Length Denim Capri Leggings

Relaxed Legging

Great Shapes Cotton Shaping Leggings

No Nonsense Modern Length Denim Capri Leggings-24″ inseam ($16.99 USD) — No nonsense Modern Length Denim Capri Leggings feature lengthened inseam at 24 inches from 21 inches. Made with soft cotton/polyester blend for great stretch and easy comfort.

No Nonsense Relaxed Legging ($15.99 USD) — Style meets comfort with these Relaxed Leggings. Easy to wear, casual style that translates beautifully into today’s athleisure trend. Features relaxed legs with banded ankles.

No Nonsense Great Shapes Cotton Shaping Leggings ($15.99 USD) — Our No nonsense Great Shapes Cotton Shaping Leggings offer trend-right style with added shaping benefits. They feature a poly-spandex power-net panel to provide shaping support around tummy and hips.

What I think: No Nonsense has lots of great, affordable leggings. These are all so comfortable, and cute, too! The Great Shapes Leggings really helped shape my tummy and look great under a tunic. The Relaxed Leggings are awesome for on-trend athleisure looks, or just lazing at home (me). And the Denim Capri’s are cute with summer tops. So many choices!

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

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

My Beauty Favorites — Week of April 25-May 1, 2016

We have had a stormy, rainy week in Kansas City! It looks like this week should be a lot warmer and sunnier. You never know what type of weather you will have here!

And like our varied weather, I love to try all sorts of different types of beauty products! This week I was send a gorgeous lip oil in a fun shaker, luxe skincare and beautiful hair care to review. These are what I am loving this week:

Lancôme Juicy Shaker ($21 USD) –Shake it up with the latest innovation: Juicy Shaker’s bi-phase technology delivers the first pigmented lip oil with 2 distinct phases. The first phase is a transparent oil phase for a comfortable non-sticky shine. The second is the pigment phase for a shot of color. Shake Juicy Shaker like a cocktail shaker to mix the pigments and oil. The cushion applicator enhances application by delivering the perfect ‘shot’ of addictive non-sticky shine and a sheer tint of color to your lips that is simply irresistible.

The cocktail blend of 5 nourishing oils treats your lips like a lip balm. Peach kernel oil; a well-known emollient softens lips while Sweet Almond oil conditions and Cranberry oil provides rich anti-oxidant properties. Muscat Rose oil is rich in essential fatty acids and helps to soothe lips. So addictive, you won’t be able to resist applying it over and over.

What I think: I have been loving lip oils this year. I like how they moisturize, give shine and some color. I have few different brands, but was so excited to try this one! I received it in 300 Lemon Explosion (above), a sheer pink and 102 Apri-Cute, a pigmented coral. These are gorgeous one, great for a fun pop of color that is very good for the lips! I might have to pick up some more!

Purchase at http://www.lancome-usa.com

NASSIF MD Bio-Rhythmic Skincare CLOCK AM Daily Environmental Defense Serum ($95 USD) — This ultra-concentrated serum synchronizes with the skin’s daytime biorhythms and defends the skin from environmental assault, including the newest types of UV radiations (cell phones, flat screens, and laptops) known as HEV (High Energy Visible) light.

NASSIF MD Bio-Rhythmic Skincare Dawn to Dusk Cleanser ($35 USD) — This foaming cleanser is the perfect start to our skin care 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. Infused with: Ivory Palm Seed, Jojoba, Pomegranate, Panthenol, and Allantoin.

NASSIF MD Bio-Rhythmic Skincare CLOCK PM Night Serum ($110 USD) — In accordance with the skin’s nocturnal biorhythms, our night time serum 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. Infused with: Pomegranate, Safflower Oil, MATRIXYL SYNTHE-6, Detoxophane, Sea Whip Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Ergothioneine, Astaxanthin, Roxisomes, Sunflower Oil, and Elastomer Silicone.

What I think: These products are fantastic in fighting pollutants on our skin. The cleanser exfoliates so well, skin is soft and clear after used. The claim is that the serums sync with our biorhythms. I don’t know if that’s true, but they do sink into the skin quickly and leave it with a nice glow. Wonderful for use under your favorite moisturizers!

Purchase at http://www.macys.com

Madison Reed’s Permanent At-Home Color Kit ($24.95 USD) — A 9-piece color kit with everything you need for salon results at home—except the harsh chemicals.

The advanced color formula is enhanced with a Triple Care Complex of Argan Oil, Keratin, and Ginseng Root extract to strengthen, repair, and bring out your hair’s natural shine. The result is vibrantly colored hair that feels softer, stronger, and healthier. You’ll get rich, long-lasting, multi-tonal color without the stink, burn, or itch from common dyes.

What I think: This kit is so luxe! I loved using it, it came with everything and more I needed to color my hair — including color-safe shampoo and conditioner, a hair cap and wipes to remove color from skin. My hair was soft, shiny and gorgeous after used. I chose Napoli Brown – 5NGV. My hair is dark brown, and this had golden highlights which is so pretty. It comes in 32 shades. Do the quiz on the website and you will find an amazing color!

Purchase at http://www.madison-reed.com

Mother’s Day Beauty Gifts

There are so many wonderful Mother’s Day gifts to consider this time of year. I am a beauty blogger, so I usually give my mom and mother-in-law beauty gifts so that they can pamper themselves!

Below are some of my favorite skincare, bath and body and fragrances to give to her for Mother’s Day. She will love to receive any of them!

Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare 2-Pc. Ageless Beauty Gift Set ($69 USD) includes the Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare Uplift + IR Defense Firming Neck & Décolleté Cream, a luxurious, fast-working cream that helps firm, smooth, brighten and rejuvenate the look of the delicate skin of the neck and chest, and Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare Refocus Under Eye Treatment, a potent anti-aging serum infused with the brand’s proprietary Bio-Copper Complex that visibly reduces under-eye puffiness and dark circles.

20% of proceeds from each set sold go to Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft charity and a charity close to Christie’s heart. Smile Train is an international children’s charity with a sustainable approach to a single, solvable problem: cleft lip and palate. Smile Train provides training and funding to empower local doctors in 85+ developing countries to provide 100%-free cleft repair surgery in their own communities.

What I think: I love this brand! The products are so hydrating and efficacious. They both sink into the skin, leaving it smooth and supple. It is so important to treat eyes and neck, as both areas can really show age. This is a wonderful gift for mom, she will thank you!

Available at http://www.kohls.com

EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12 ($59 for 1.6 fl. oz. each) Pour Elle, a new female collection, will celebrate a new chapter for her with the three fragrances—Natural, Sparkling, and Elegant. Each of the three fragrances are united with a white floral heart of jasmine expertly blended with different ingredients to accentuate the different moods within the collection. The ultimate aim is to offer women a fragrance closet that allows them to match their scent to their lifestyle – whether it’s Sparkling for a night out, Elegant for a day at the tennis or Natural for a family gathering. EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12 Pour Elle is true to both the LACOSTE brand heritage and its core values of innovation.

Sparkling fragrance notes: Red Apple, mandarin, blackberries, cotton candy accord, lily of the valley, vetyver, cashmere wood, and blackberries.

Natural fragrance notes: Pineapple, raspberries, wild rose, orris, jasmine, sandalwood, ambrox, and cream coconut.

Elegant fragrance notes: Citrus complex, pink pepper, cassis bud, violet, muguet, mimosa, vetyver, vanilla, and heliotrope.

These are so fun and smell amazing! I have tried all three. Elegant is my favorite. I can really smell the citrus, violet (one of my favorite scents) and vanilla. It is so bright and pretty. Sparkling is sexy, you can pick out the blackberries and cashmere which makes it sultry. Natural is fresh and sweet. They are all amazing, Choose one for all of the special ladies in your life!

Purchase at http://www.kohls.com

Soaptopia She’s a Scentsation Gift Box ($37.50 USD) — for the woman in your life that deserves to be pampered every day. All of Soaptopia’s products are 100% JUNK-FREE, Synthetic Free and Petroleum Free and you can customize each set from their many yummy flavor families, perfectly curated just for her.

Includes:

3 – Large 6-7 oz. artisan bar of handmade soap of your choice
1 – 8 oz. Oil Slather of your choice

What I think: I love this brand! Their products smell so yummy! This gift is perfect for any mom or lady in your life, because you can choose the Oil Slather (LOVE) and all three soaps. I receive these to review for my honest opinion. I was sent the slather in Rozilla vs. Dry Skinea, which is a combo of rose geranium and vanilla. It smells incredible and is so hydrating, I love how soft and glowy it leaves my skin! It contains many wonderful oils such as grape seed, olive, coconut and sunflower.

The soaps are amazing, too. They are beautiful as well as fragrant. I received L’OATus which includes French Lavender & Oats, Beauty and the Beach Sweet Orange, Jasmine, Vanilla & Pumice Sand and Melrose-y Sunset Rose Geranium, Rosewood, Litsea, Orange Wild, Jasmine & Argan Oil. They are all natural and handmade in small batches with lots of love and only the finest ingredients. This set is perfect for the lady who loves natural beauty.

Purchase at http://www.soaptopia.com

HUGO Woman ($72 for 2.5 fl. oz.) — The HUGO Woman fragrance is for women who are independent and live their life on their own terms. A feminine, floral, fruity fragrance with an unexpected boyish twist. Notes of heady white lilies, crisp apples, subtly sweet peaches and berries are combined with black tea, creating a feeling of fresh sensuality. A hint of ocean air revitalizes the senses and strikes a perfect balance for the modern sophisticate.

What I think: I haven’t tried this one yet, but it sounds amazing. The black tea notes sound really different and I love fruity scents. This would be perfect for a modern mom and anyone who loves unique fragrances.

Purchase at http://www.hugoboss.com

Are you purchasing a beauty gift for a special lady for Mother’s Day? Leave a comment and let me know!

I’m linking up to the Midweek BeYOUty Bonanza Midweek BeYOUty Bonanza! Check it out!

Brand Review: Trufora Organic Skincare

Trufora

I was recently sent the Trufora 7 Piece Complete Anti-Aging Skincare System ($380.00 value for $228) for my honest review. The brand’s claim is that it’s dermatologist recommended & clinically proven skincare delivers a complete anti-aging regimen for visible results without irritation or harmful ingredients.

7 Piece System Includes:
• Ultimate Facial Cleanser (120 ml / 4 fl. oz.)
• Triple Action Exfoliator (60 ml / 2 fl. oz.)
• Day Serum 85 (15 ml / .5 fl. oz.) – Patent Pending
• Titanium Day Cream SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen (30 ml / 1 fl. oz.) – Patent Pending
• Night Serum 85 (15 ml / .5 fl. oz.) – Patent Pending
• Intensive Night Treatment (30 ml / 1 fl. oz.)
• Perfecting Eye Treatment (7.5 ml / .25 fl. oz.)

What I think: I have been testing these products for a couple of weeks and am really enjoying them. I love how it is a complete system that works so well together. My skin is so hydrated and smooth. It has also evened out my skin tone and my fine lines are a lot less noticeable.

One of my favorite products is the Exfoliator. It works in three ways: Chemical exfoliation from AHAs and BHAs is combined with physical exfoliation from Bamboo along with a deep, cleansing mask action from Kaolin clay. I use is a few times a week and it has really cleansed my skin and leaves it so soft! My pores look smaller, too!

I also love the Night Serum and Treatment. The serum is creamy and instantly sinks into my skin when applied. The treatment is a bit richer. Both leave my skin feeling amazing, really soft. And by the morning, my skin looks fresh and glowing.

The one product I’m still trying to figure out is the Titanium Day Cream. It’s a dark pinky-brown, which kind of shocked me when I first used it! My skin is very light and it darkened it a bit, and left it a little sparkly. If I put foundation and powder over it, it looks better. But, I don’t know if I will continue using it.

I will use all of the other products. I love that they are natural and organic. I feel like I’m feeding my skin great ingredients when I use them. I would purchase most of these products in the future!

You can purchase this set or the items separately at http://www.trufora.com

My Beauty Favorites — Week of April 11-17, 2016

My favorites this week can be found in one shopping spot — Whole Foods. But I am not talking about snacks, there are wonderful natural beauty products to be found there, too!

The next time you go to load up your cart, make sure to save some room for skin, and body care from Surya Brasil, Kensington Apothecary and Jeffrey James Botanicals:

Surya Brasil Sapien Women Shave Gel ($20.39 USD) — The eco friendly Sapien Women Shave Gel protects your skin while shaving. Its a natural and vegan product made with exotic organic Amazonian ingredients like Cupuaçu butter, Pracaxi oil*, Macadamia oil, Vitamin E to prevent drying and protect sensitive skin. Organic Aloe Vera juice and vegetable glycerin promote intense hydration.

What I think: This has an fresh, almost citrusy scent. It lathers well and gives a comfortable shave. And I love how smooth it makes my legs. The natural ingredients moisturize so well!

Available at http://www.suryabrasilproducts.com

Jeffrey James Botanicals The Crème ($45 USD) — The Creme restores and regenerates miraculously. Glycolic and Alpha Hydroxy acid boost cell renewal and collagen production. Bee propolis and royal jelly preserve and restore proteins and enzymes for anti aging action as well as amino acid protein building blocks for younger skin. Actives like Wild Indigo scavenge free radicals and superior organic plant oils and Hyaluronic Acid nourish and you then the skin.

What I think: I use this creme at night, because it is very rich. In the morning my skin is fresh and soft! I think it’s ideal for dry skin. I’ve noticed that my skin looks smoother and a bit tighter each morning. Great product for a good price!

Available at http://www.jeffreyjamesbotanicals.com

Kensington Apothecary Skin Serum #2 City Girl ($33 USD) — Attention Urban Glamoristas! Bright lights, late nights and the cocktail circuit leave their mark on your face in the form of sallowness, puffiness, rough skin texture and dark circles. What you are seeing are the destructive effects of protein glycation on your otherwise beautiful face. Fight those sugar blues with Kombucha and Silk Seed Extracts and return to the party fresh-faced and radiant.

What I think: I love this silky serum! It has the consistency of a light oil and sinks right in to the skin, leaving a glow. It has a soft scent that goes away quickly. Using it at night under moisturizer, I wake up with fresh, smooth skin. Perfect for late nights or stressful weeks!

Learn more at kensingtonapothecary.com. Plus, all of these products can be found at your local Whole Foods store.

What are you loving this week? Do you like to use natural skincare? Leave a message and let me know!

Treat Yourself With IT Cosmetics Friends and Family Sale!

Looking to buy some gorgeous Spring makeup or just wanting to find that hero foundation? Or maybe some Superhero Mascara (my FAVORITE)?

IT Cosmetics is rewarding their loyal IT Girls with exclusive access to their semi-annual friends & family sale, an event that you DEFINITELY don’t want to miss. The sale is 25% off with code FRIENDS2016. You can indulge in palettes, sets, and individual face products, in a variety of shades, formulas, and categories – there’s something for every IT Girl!

The event will run through April 16, 2016!

Besides Superhero Mascara, which is amazing (see my review here), some of my all-time IT favorites are the Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer, Bye Bye Pores powder in loose and pressed formulas, and any of their gorgeous eye shadows. One of my new favorites is the Bye Bye Makeup 3-in-1 Makeup Melting Balm which removes all makeup easily and leaves skin so clean. I want to try the Confidence in a Cream moisturizer, and now would be the perfect time!

Enjoy shopping at www.itcosmetics.com and remember to use the offer code FRIENDS2016.

Hydrating Skincare For The New Season

I try a lot of new skincare each year, and LOVE it! There are so many amazing brands and products available that can change the texture of skin and help with fine lines and wrinkles.

The products below are my current faves:

Erborian Bamboo Crème Frappée ($43 USD) — With a unique slush-like texture that melts effortlessly into skin on contact, the Bamboo Crème Frappée instantly helps revive dehydrated skin. This intensely moisturizing cream helps to energize and refresh the skin while providing comfort and hydration. Apply the fresh gel to your skin in the morning and at night, or use as a makeup base to reveal smoother and softer feeling skin.

What I think: This is a cool moisturizer. It has a slushie gel consistency that melts into skin. I like using it in the morning, since it is so refreshing, plus it softens my dry skin. Great for every day!

Purchase at http://www.sephora.com

JUARA’s Clove Flower & Turmeric Anti-Aging Serum ($65 USD) — Get glowing radiant skin! This reparative oil-free and fragrance-free serum addresses the visible signs of premature skin aging. It boosts radiance, reduces the appearance of fine lines and increases firmness using a powerful combination of turmeric, clove flower, watermelon extract, sea algae, hyaluronic acid, goji fruit and palm peptides. Clove flower and turmeric help brighten and even out the appearance of the skin. Plant Peptides, Goji Fruit and Golden Bamboo help firm and smooth skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines, while Sweet Pea naturally exfoliates. Fresh sea algae, watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid plump the look of the skin and infuse skin with immediate vitality and hydration. After only a few applications your skin will look smoother, more radiant and vibrant, while feeling firmer and more plump to the touch, results get even better with prolonged use.

What I think: I use serums twice a day, so am always looking for a great one. This serum is light and fragrance-free, which is so helpful with my sensitive skin. It helps firm and hydrate my skin. I love to apply a moisturizer over it to lock in the hydration and keep my skin smooth all day.

Purchase at http://www.juaraskincare.com

Votre Vu Tragic Magic Rescue Crème

Votre Vue Attentive Crème de Nuit

Votre Vu Tragic Magic Rescue Crème ($40 USD) — It soothes, decongests, desensitizes, rebalances and stabilizes the flush of hyper-reactive skin. That’s not all. It will also reinforce the protective barrier of your skin to ward off those pesky free radicals and save the day. Tragic Magic Rescue Crème is designed to correct the excessive sensitivity of the facial skin and restore equilibrium to the self-defending barrier of highly reactive skin. Immediately, the skin is calmed with lime, then desensitized and decongested by a blend of skin defenders. Jojoba, rose hips, calophyllum, soja and avocado insaponifiables protect and balance skin’s defenses and, with the protection of vitamin E against cell-damaging free radicals, your skin can re-hydrate to regain a balanced moisture level.

Votre Vue Attentive Crème de Nuit ($49. USD) — Designed to lavishly attend to the needs of your sensitive skin, this organic night crème is here to save face. Luscious and delicate with a soft, velvety texture, Attentive Crème de Nuit completely calms and moisturizes even the most sensitive skin all the way through to morning light. A select group of active moisturizing plant agents including borage and tamanu oils, in addition to shea butter, blended with milk proteins and algae extracts, produce a superlative essential night treatment. Instantly comforting, this crème is ideal to help skin recover and reform.

What I think: Votre Vu is a French skincare company that I haven’t tried before. Both of these creams are rich and soothing. The Tragic Magic (great name!) cream is very rich, but not greasy at all. It is nice to use at night when my sensitive skin is irritated. The Attentive Crème is lighter and so nice to use every night. I wake up in the morning and my skin hydrated, clear and ready for the day!

Purchase at http://www.votrevu.com

Talika’s Bio Enzymes Mask ($13.75) includes Chamomile and Arnica, helping to soothe and heal the skin. It has a three dimensional structure to retain a very high concentration of active ingredients which are spread evenly over the skin.

It acts like a “second skin”. With alpine herbs, sodium hyaluronate and hydrophilic sugars, it restores dry, sensitive skins. After use, the skin is perfectly mosturized*, softened, soothed and infinitely more beautiful.

What I think: This is an interesting mask. It is almost like a gel sheet. When I placed it on my skin, it molded to my face. I left it on for about 15 minutes. After I removed it, I rubbed in the excess serum. Then I let my skin dry and afterwards it was very soft. It even hydrated rough spots on my forehead. This is fabulous for dry and dull skin.

Available at http://www.talika.com and Nordstrom.com

Patchology Brand Review and 50% Off Coupon!

I was lucky to be sent wonderful face, lip and eye masks from Patchology for my honest review!

Lucky for you, I have been given a 50% of code just for you, my awesome readers! The code is FLIRTY50. The code is live for 2 weeks, so enjoy!

Patchology 5 Minute Facial Sheet Masques Pack of all three ($20 USD) — These fast-acting facial sheet masques deliver results in just 5 minutes, while traditional sheet masques can take up to 20 minutes. Simply apply, take 5 and go…no rinsing required.

Exfoliate FlashMasque gently removes dead skin cells for more even tone and texture.
Hydrate FlashMasque delivers a mega-dose of moisture for soft, silky skin.
Illuminate FlashMasque reveals fresh-faced radiance to lackluster skin.

Included: 3 FlashMasque Facial Sheets (1 each of: Exfoliate, Hydrate & Illuminate)

What I think: I love that these only take 5 minutes! I tried another mask last week that I had to leave on for 20 minutes, ugh! And, the best thing is that these really work! The Exfoliate masque is gentle to use, but really leaves my skin soft and smooth, and it was rough before! I love the Hydrate Masque for when my skin is dry and irritated. The Illuminate one is perfect right before going out, glowy, glowy skin!

Patchology FlashPatch Eye Gels ($50 for 30 pairs) — 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.

What I think: These are so nice! Again, only five minutes to hydrated and brightened eyes! Just place them under your eye and they stay put until you take them off! I like to use these before I go out. Under my eyes are smoother and firmer after use!

Patchology FlashPatch Lip Gels ($50 for 24 patches) — Soften, smooth and diminish the appearance of vertical lip lines in just 5 minutes. Hydrogel patch technology provides deep hydration and lip revitalization in a way that topical lip treatments cannot.

Highly advanced cooling and refreshing translucent hydrogel patches accelerate the delivery of Niacinamide, Peptides and Green Tea Extract. Stay-put patches ensure you get the ingredients where you need them most for softer, smoother lips. Helps diminish the appearance of vertical lip lines and enhance lip shape and volume revealing more youthful-looking, perfectly prepped lips.

What I think: These are a new idea in gel patches, and I love them! It is so important to take care of our lips as we age. As I near my fifties (yes, I said it), I am starting to see the vertical lip lines, so I moisturize. These patches really help because they sink in deep into the lips and lines around them. Lips are so smooth after use! Put on your lipstick and go!!

Don’t forget my code FLIRTY50 for 50% off your purchase at http://www.patchology.com. Enjoy, and let me know what you get!