Skincare – Page 40 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of November 3 — November 9, 2014

Today was a beautiful day in Kansas City, in the 6o’s. But it will really start feeling like November this week with highs in the 30’s…brrr!

I am really thinking about giving extra moisture to my skin and getting ready for winter.

I have been loving a very moisturizing CC Cream, a thickening hair collection, eye serum, fab makeup wipes, fun makeup and ingrown hair inhibitor wipes:

Nordic Beauty Broad Spectrum SPF 30 CC Cream ($130 4 oz) — an easy to apply non-greasy, anti-aging, natural coverage, matte Broad Spectrum SPF 30 CC Cream which helps to protect skin from UVA & UVB rays utilizing the safest and most natural form of zinc oxide available without using synthetic sunscreens.

What I think: This is a very luxe, thick cream. It seems like a tinted moisturizer for dry skin more than a makeup to me. It would be perfect for someone who wants a heavier day cream with SPF. It does sink into the skin and leaves a pretty glow.

Available at http://nordicbeauty.com/

Kerastase Densifique 3-Step Regimen — ($143.50 USD) — a new collection that
counters the loss of density, shine and resilience for women who are
battling the effects of ‘life stressed hair.’ This can mean physical side
effects of divorce, a stressful career or a multitude of health and
hormonal shifts which occur as women age. Unlike prescriptions or
over-the-counter remedies aimed at hair loss, Densifique’s in-salon or
at-home regimen is suitable for anyone. The at-home collection includes
Densifique Bain Densité, Densifique Masque Densité and Densifique
Densimorphose Mousse, a decadent, skin-care inspired rich mousse instantly
transforms the hair, fiber by fiber for visible voluminous results.

What I think: This is a great system for women who find that their hair is thinning with age. I have been using it for a couple of weeks, and although my hair isn’t thicker yet, the mousse does help it appear fuller! I am hoping to see more results in the next few weeks. I do notice that my hair looks healthier and shinier, which I love!

Available at http://www.kerastase-usa.com/densifique-1

AHAVA Dead Sea Osmoter Eye Concentrate Youth & Cellular Energizing Serum ($50 USD) — Silk-textured and lightweight, this clinically tested* re-energizing eye serum illuminates, smoothes and beautifies the delicate eye zone. Infused with Persian Silk & Siegesbeckia Orientalis Extracts this formula will help to strengthen the dermal structure, fight signs of fatigue/stress and reduce dark circles. The Cucumber and Aloe Vera will help to calm the skin and reduce puffiness, while the Bird of Paradise Extract corrects discolorations and restores luminosity, promoting radiance for a more rested, youthful appearance. In a series of independent studies on 36 women over the course of 4 weeks, 81% reported the eye area looked refreshed and agreed the serum visibly improved the eye area.

What I think: This lovely eye serum is so soothing on! I have noticed that my eyes look fresher and smoother after using this product. I have only been using it for about a week, so I do not see improvement in my dark circles yet, but I’m hopeful.

Available at AHAVAUS.com

butter LONDON Scrubbers Makeup Remover Wipes ($15 for 15 wipes) — Gently cleanse and wipe away dirt, oil and makeup with Scrubbers Makeup Remover Wipes. Luxourious and ultra-soft, these double-sided wipes contain natural botanical extracts of rice, sunflower and rosemary to cleanse and soothe even the most sensitive skin. Lightly quilted on one side, these wipes scrub away even the most stubborn shades, while the smooth side cleanses and soothes. These individually-wrapped world travelers will become the superstars of your cosmetic bag.

What I think: Loving these! Although these have natural ingredients (which sometimes irritate my skin) and scrubbers on one side, these are so refreshing and calming at the same time. Plus with the scrubbers, they remove all of my makeup, which is rare with makeup removing wipes. I will be purchasing these again.

Available at http://www.butterlondon.com

Mary Kay Mineral Eye Color in Sterling

Mary Kay At Play Eye Crayon in Purple Smoke

Mary Kay At Play Jelly Lip Gloss in Teddy Bare

Mary Kay Mineral Eye Color ($7 USD) — This long-lasting, fade-resistant, mineral-based formula delivers weightless, high-impact color in one swipe with a natural, luminous finish that looks gorgeous on any skin tone.

Mary Kay At Play Eye Crayon ($10 USD) — Lightweight, ultra creamy texture glides on smoothly for intense, true-color payoff that doesn’t fade.

Mary Kay At Play Jelly Lip Gloss ($10 USD) — Lip sync to full-on glossy goodness with a fun jelly texture.

What I think: All three of these products together make a fun fall or holiday look. The silver shadow can be a soft wash of color or layered for more sparkle. Rim your eyes with the eye crayon for a smoky look, or all over for more drama. I love the lip gloss for a great everyday lippy. It is a little bit sticky, but has really good color.

Available at http://www.marykay.com

Whish Flawless Swipes ($7 (8pk) / $22 (30pk)) — Our amazingly effective and popular Flawless Ingrown Hair Serum in a new and easy to use delivery system. Perfect for your entire body or spot treating affected areas, you will easily banish the curse of ingrown hairs and bumps. This deliciously fresh smelling formula uses clinically proven active ingredients that restore your skin’s suppleness and weakens hair follicles, inhibiting future growth. You won’t need to kiss a frog to break the “bump” cures. Just a swipe of Flawless to restore smooth skin.

What I think: These lightly cucumber-scented gel-wipes are so cool. You smooth them over any red bumps or ingrown hairs in areas that you shave (bikini areas, thighs) and skin is smoother! I have used these a couple of times and have noticed that the bumps are less noticeable.

Available at www.ulta.com

What have you been trying this week?

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of October 27 – November 2, 2014

Can you believe that Halloween is over and it’s November? Plus, Daylight Savings Time? This year has flown by!

I have received so many fantastic products to test that it’s hard to keep up with all of them! This week, I am loving fabulous skincare, hair care, makeup and a fabulous natural SPF brand. What are you loving this week? Leave a comment and let me know!

NIA24 Treatment Catalyst ($71 USD) — A nourishing face oil that fortifies skin and acts as a performance-enhancing catalyst to accelerate the results of other skincare products. 5% Pro-Niacin® along with essential vitamins and fatty acids fortify the skin barrier and improve the health and condition of the skin. This product delivers an immediate dose of moisture and radiance while accelerating the performance of any skincare regimen. Use in the morning and at night. Apply 2-3 drops directly to cleansed skin or mix with your preferred serum or moisturizer.

What I think: This is a really easy way to add some amazing skincare ingredients to your beauty regimen. This non-greasy face oil can be used after cleanser on it’s own or mixed with a favorite serum or moisturizer. I mix it with my serum and I like how soft and moisturized my skin is after use. I also like that my skin is basically receiving vital nutrients and vitamins in just a few drops!

Available at NIA24.com

StriVectinLABS Anti-Wrinkle Hydra Gel Treatment ($69 USD) — This two-step wrinkle-smoothing system helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The Anti-Wrinkle Precision Patches are designed to release the ingredients at an optimal rate while providing a soothing, cooling treatment. Left on the face for a 15-minute period, these hydra gel patches help to address laugh lines, frown lines, brow lines, lip lines and crow’s feet. The second step is the Anti-Wrinkle Smoothing Balm, a daily wrinkle smoothing treatment with the NIA-114™ technology and Hyaluronic Acid to help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles and deliver an instant boost of moisture to the skin.

What I think: This is a fun product to use! The gel patches instantly de-puff my eyes and cool the area. The balm is so moisturizing as well. I really see a difference is the skin around my eyes, too. It is smoother. LOVE!

Available at StriVectin.com

Carol’s Daughter’s Marula Curl Therapy Collection

The Marula Curl Therapy Collection is formulated to deeply rejuvenate each curl so they are trained to always be what you want them to be: soft, shiny and beautifully free. The products are:

· Marula Gentle Cream Cleanser ($18.00): Manage your curls by pampering them with this rich, gentle cream cleanser.

· Marula Oil Softening Serum ($18.00): With the star ingredient of Marula Oil, curls will transform into glossy, spiral curls making it easy to soothe and shine on instant.

· Marula Softening Hair Mask ($24.00): Rejuvenate your hair with this Marula Oil based mask, this rehydrates every strand and gives the extra moisture you need.

· Marula Diffusing & Styling Lotion ($20.00): Conditioning Marula Oil and moisture-enhancing Almond Oil leave hair hydrated, healthy, and super shiny.

What I think: My hair isn’t the right texture for these products, it is wavy not curly. But I have been testing the oil and I love how it moisturizes my hair. I just need to use a few drops and my waves are smooth and silky.

Available at www.carolsdaughter.com

Merle Norman Cosmetics was founded in Los Angeles in 1931, and is a longstanding leading brand of premium skincare, foundations and color cosmetic products. Its founder, Merle Nethercutt Norman, was one of the first women in cosmetics and a true innovator. In addition to creating breakthrough products, she empowered other women to begin their own business selling her cosmetic products. Today, Merle Norman Studios are located throughout the United States, Canada and in seven countries internationally. Today, Merle Norman’s vision carries on. The Merle Norman line includes hundreds of tried-and-true products, addressing the full spectrum of skin care and color needs for all women.

Merle Norman Hero Products Include:

Liquid Lipcolor ($15): This innovative lip product is stunning from application to finish. The ultra-plush applicator deposits just the right amount of smooth, stay-true color onto lips. Its unique whipped texture makes the product easy to apply and a multi-hydration technology system of DL Plum Oil French, which comes only from plums grown in the South-West of France, Argan Oil and Meadowestolide makes it very comfortable to wear. It also includes a lip-plumping ingredient that helps lips appear smoother (without the usual tingling feel).
Pro Pen Eyeliner ($14): This easy-to-use liquid liner pen makes lining your eyes as simple as signing your name. Its slim felt-tipped applicator acts like a fine-point marker, while its ergonomic grip lets you control the effect. The harder you press, the bolder the line it creates — so easy! Best yet, its long-wearing formula won’t smudge or budge for up to 14 hours! Water-resistant and ophthalmologist tested.
CC Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($28): A multi-benefit product that’s formulated to combine the powers of a skin care product and a sun protector with the complexion evening benefits of a light coverage foundation all in one product! The lightweight formula imparts a light amount of coverage to even out skin tone, but can be easily layered for buildable coverage as desired. The blendable formula also pairs easily with foundation primers, concealers, foundations and powders so you can achieve the exact look you want.

What I think: These are all gorgeous products. My favorite is the CC Cream. It is a medium coverage foundation and applies very smoothly. I have noticed while trying a lot of BB and CC creams that they can have an orange cast to them and are almost balm-like, but this one is light and easy to blend. The color is great, too!

Available at www.MerleNorman.com

Osmotics Blue Copper 5 Prime Sleep Tight Mask ($85 USD) — Healthier, younger skin – while you sleep with the power of copper peptide technology. The breakthrough formula features intense levels of hyaluronic acid (20%) to promote deep hydration, while easing stress and dryness. Fine lines and wrinkles are plumped and filled and skin is lifted and tightened to reveal perfect facial contours.

What I think: I apply this mask like a night cream. But when I wake up in the morning, my skin is so smooth and soft! I use it a couple of times a week and like the results I see. My skin seems smoother and the texture seems more even. Since it’s been colder lately, I have been getting dry patches on my forehead. These go away after using this mask,

Available at select Nordstrom, Dillard’s and Soft Surroundings store locations, as well as independent boutiques and spas or at www.osmotics.com

Formulated with ingredients like plankton, red algae, and red raspberry seed oil, COOLA’s reformulated Classic line of sunscreens also incorporates a patented plant-derived ingredient that is both certified organic and eco-certified and enables the brand to cut their active levels by 80%! That’s just another way that COOLA is leading the charge to create the healthiest sunscreens on the market.

What I think: I love The Face SPF 30 Cucumber Matte Finish to protect my face without leaving it oily and the Sort SPF 50 Fresh Mango moisturizer for the body to keep my skin soft and smelling great! All of the COOLA products I have tried are such luxurious, natural SPF skincare and I love using them!

COOLA Suncare is available at ULTA Beauty, ULTA.com and coolasuncare.com, as well as the finest Resorts, Spas and Specialty Boutiques.

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of October 20-26, 2014

It’s Fall…I guess. It’s 85 degrees in Kansas City today. Hot! It is supposed to cool down in a couple of days. I hope so, I’d love to be wearing my fall clothes.

Lately, I have been sent so many fabulous products to test. Below are 5 of my favorites — A refreshing toner, an excellent body butter, a firming neck cream, a natural deodorant and a very cool curling tool.

Korres Pomegranate Toner ($22 USD) — This toner gently exfoliates to remove excess oil and dirt from skin, imparting a tighter, smoother, and more matte finish while helping to reduce redness. Pomegranate extract, rich in tannins and polyphenols, helps tighten pores and rejuvenate the look of skin. Alpine willowherb and witch hazel extract help refine the appearance of pores and provide a matte look to the skin. Formulated with natural skin conditioners, this refreshing toner leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.

What I think: Very refreshing and makes my skin smoother. I have noticed that my pores appear smaller. Plus, my skin feels cleaner but not dry after I use it.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

L’Occitane Shea Butter Whipped Body Cream ($20 USD) — The Shea Butter Whipped Body Cream combines the nourishing properties of a balm with the lightness of a mousse, to help nourish and protect the skin. This whipped formula, made with 10% shea butter, gently melts into the skin when applied, leaving skin supple and comfortable.

What I think: Easily my favorite body cream or lotion at the moment. The texture is light and fluffy like whipped cream, but when I apply it, it sinks right into my skin and leaves it so soft! Plus, it’s not greasy at all. The scent is very clean. LOVE! The whipped shea collection also includes a foaming body was ($20 USD) and a travel sized hand cream ($12 USD).

Available at usa.loccitane.com.

StriVectin TL Advanced Tightening Neck Cream

StriVectin TL Advance Tightening Neck Cream ($95 USD) — This high-performance neck cream includes exclusive Gravitite-CF Lifting Complex, designed to help rebuild the elastin fiber architecture so critical to tightening and lifting the neck and décolletage area, and to improving resistance to gravity over time. The surface of the skin is instantly hydrated, feeling tighter, smoother and more supple. Over time, the visible effects of aging appear reversed for even more refined, toned definition and sculpted silhouette. With even more effective results than the original, 86% of panelists agreed it’s the best neck cream they’ve ever tried.

What I think: I have been testing this neck cream for a few weeks now. It’s extremely moisturizing without being greasy. I have noticed that my skin does seem a bit tighter and smoother. As I have been aging, my skin has been getting a little looser. I will continue using this to see if I get any further results.

Available at http://www.strivectin.com

The Healthy Deodorant in Vanilla Lavender ($14 USD) — Essential oils of Spanish lavender and soft vanilla give a light and powdery fresh sensation. This All-Natural, freshly scented deodorant provides superior, long-lasting odor protection. Soothing essential oils blend with powerful anti-oxidants and beta glucan technology for daily defense and nourishment. Clinically Tested. Dermatologist Recommended. No Aluminum. No Paraben. No Propylene Glycol. No Harsh Chemicals.

What I think: I really like the scent of this natural deodorant. While it isn’t strong enough for me (I use the clinical strength deodorants), it’s great for my teenage daughters. And I love that they are using something that is healthy for their skin.

Purchase at http://www.lavanila.com

Infiniti Pro by Conair Curl Secret ($99 USD) — In an industry where secrets are everything, the Curl Secret will be your weapon on how to get perfect curls each and every time. Regular curling irons don’t always produce the desired results, but being the fixers they are, the pros at Infiniti Pro by Conair designed this device to draw hair in and release consistently beautiful curls.

What I think: I have been wanting to try this since it came out! It looked so cool. And it really is! I have used it on my shoulder-length hair and my daughter’s long hair and it works really well. It take a little practice to position it correctly and to use the correct amount of hair, but once I got it, it was fast and easy! And the curls looked great!

Available at http://www.curlsecret.com

What have you been loving this week?

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of October 6-12, 2014

It is truly fall now in Kansas City! It’s definitely sweater weather — in the 50’s and 60’s. And, I know it’s only going to get cooler in the next weeks and months.

This week, my fave products are items to help thicken stressed hair, plus moisturize body and facial skin to get ready for cooler weather.

Alterna Haircare Caviar Clinical Daily Densifying Foam ($36 USD) — This lightweight densifying foam thickens and strengthens each strand while helping to prevent hair loss and breakage. Formulated with non-sticky polymers to build volume and create long-lasting body as well as Red Clover Growth Complex, this foam is clinically proven to save 1,300 strands per month. Free Of: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Synthetic Color, Paraffins, Gluten, DEA/TEA, Phthalates, Mineral Oil & Petrolatum

What I think: As a lady with thinning hair, I love a good thickening product. I use this on damp hair, and after I dry it, it does seem thicker. Perfect for giving my hair body every day!

Available in October at AlternaHaircare.com

Rogaine Women’s Hair Regrowth Treatment, Once-a-Day Foam ($31.99 USD) — Regrow thicker, fuller, beautiful hair with Women’s ROGAINE Hair Regrowth Treatment, Once-a-Day Foam. Containing 5% minoxidil, this foam reactivates hair follicles to regrow hair. The only once-daily hair regrowth treatment for women approved by the FDA, this formula is clinically proven to regrow hair in 81 percent* of women. New hair comes in up to 48 percent** thicker than before, with clinical results in as little as 12 weeks and visible results with continuous daily use after 24 weeks. From the number-one dermatologist recommended brand, the once-a-day applied foam can fit into your regular beauty routine. This package of Women’s ROGAINE Foam includes one 60-gram can, a two-month supply.

What I think: I have just started using this, and its very easy to use. A capful a day massaged into hair is all you need. I am hoping to see results soon!

Available at http://www.cvs.com

Suave’s Professional Body Care Suave® Professionals Body Care is sharing the secret to recreating the ultimate, luxurious spa experience at home. Every day Women are encouraged to share their beauty tips, tricks and #SuaveSpaSecrets from their at- home spa staycation with Suave Professionals Body Care.

Suave® Professionals introduces new spa-quality Body Care products infused with precious ingredients. The new products are:

NEW Suave® Professionals Moroccan Infusion Body Wash ($2.99 USD) – infused with Moroccan argan oil
NEW Suave® Professionals Natural Infusion Awapuhi Ginger Body Wash ($2.99 USD) – infused with Awapuhi Ginger and Honeysuckle
Suave® Professionals Moroccan Infusion Body Lotion ($4.99 USD) with authentic Moroccan argan oil to leave your skin beautifully silky and stunningly radiant
Suave® Professionals Moroccan Infusion Dry Body Oil Spray ($5.99 USD) has a non-greasy formula that absorbs instantly

What I think: Loving all of these products! Both body washes smell great and clean and moisturize my skin. The dry oil spray is perfect to use after a shower. Leaves skin so soft! The product that was my least favorite is the body lotion, as I’m not a fan of the scent. It’s very soapy, and if you love a clean, soapy scent it might be perfect for you.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Essence of Beauty Forbidden Orchid Body & Hand Cream ($6.99 USD) — Condition your skin with the lasting, indulgent moisture of this luscious cream. Our exclusive, ultra-rich formula combines softening sunflower and avocado oils with nourishing passionflower seed and rice bran oils. It absorbs quickly to leave you with noticeably softer skin. Massage into dry areas like hands, elbows, knees and heels to restore moisture and leave skin lightly scented.

The heart of Forbidden Orchard is rooted in the allure of an enchanted path, ripe with luscious crimson apples and sweet, dark berries – forbidden but irresistible. A captivating blend of crisp red apple, sweet nectarine and black currant combines with notes of dewy fig and delicate orchid to create this enticing, unforgettable fragrance.

What I think: This smells amazing, as does another new scent I tried called Vanilla Whisper. The scents are rich for the fall. I like to keep these lotions at my desk to use on my hands and body.

Available at http://www.cvs.com

Orogold 24K Deep Day Moisturizer Cream ($128 USD) — This moisturizer is designed to help reduce the appearance of expression lines, relax wrinkles and restore softness, smoothness, and radiance. This unique moisturizer melts into your skin on contact, and helps Dry areas disappear without that greasy feeling. This powerful and rejuvenating combination gives your skin a rested and youthful look. It contains pure 24K Gold along with ingredients such as; Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Green Tea.

What I think: Such an amazing cream! It is very light, yet so moisturizing. I can use it in the day or at night for light moisturizing. After application, my skin glows! And I have noticed after using it for a couple of weeks that my skin does appear younger.

Available at http://www.orogold.com

Vine Vera Resveratrol Shiraz Instentic Facelift ($400 USD) — This formula is a non-surgical solution to achieving a youthful, lifted appearance. The combination of Dimethylamonoethanol Tartrate, Collagen and Resveratrol acts as an effective blend to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, resulting in lifted appearance. Apply to clean face. Leave on for 15-20 minutes then rinse thoroughly. Use once every two weeks.

What I think: This face lift in a jar, is obviously a luxe product that is a splurge for most people. It is so fantastic for an instant lift and youthful look for your face. My wrinkles seem less apparent and my skin is smoother and tighter. LOVE!

Purchase at http://www.vinevera.com

What new products are you using this week? Please leave a comment and let me know! I would also love to know if you have tried any of the products I have featured.

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of September 22, 2014

It has been warm this week, in the 80’s every day. I’m kind of sick of it and am dreaming of cooler weather so that I can wear fall clothes!

I’ve been super busy this week! My friend Lauren is getting married next week and I have been asked to do hers and her fiancé Stephanie’s makeup for the big day. So much fun! (Next week I may do a bridal related favorite things on Saturday and I will be busy on Sunday, wedding day).

So, I just have three fave things this week, but they are all fantastic — a lovely pressed powder, unscented body oil and some great hair products for damaged hair:

Osmosis Pressed Base ($34 USD) — Formulated for all skin types, the Osmosis Colour Pressed Base provides a flawless and seamless, semi-matte finish with long-lasting coverage. Natural broad-spectrum UV protection shields skin from UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent premature aging and hyperpigmentation. It applies quickly and easily with no mess and is packaged in a stylish mirrored compact.

What I think: I have been testing this in Golden Light. It is a nice match with my skin tone. I apply it with a powder brush and get really good coverage. It works as a finishing powder as well.

Find retail locations at http://www.osmosisskincare.com

Sublime Beauty Daily Body Oil ($21.99) — Nourish and feed skin to its best state. Sweet almond oil, sesame, aloe, argan and jojoba sooth, heal, and hydrate the skin. Containing natural anti-inflammatories, vitamins and nutrients, this all natural oil leaves skin feeling fresh and soft.

What I think: This oil is unscented, which is good for people who do not like their products scented. I actually am a fan of at least a little fragrance in my oils and lotions. It feels more luxurious that way. But, I do find that the oil is nice, especially after a shower. It locks in the moisture.

Available at www.sublimebeautyshop.com.

Infusium23 Moisture Replenisher Collectiona — Infusium23 Moisture Replenisher Collection

Infusium 23 Moisture Replenisher Collection ($6.99 each product) — features Avocado & Olive Oil blends nourishing vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to maximize hydration and deliver moisture transformation, for silky-soft, healthy hair. It includes shampoo, conditioner and leave-in treatment.

What I think: I have been enjoying this collection, as well as the Infusium 23 Repair & Renew with Keratin & Argan Oil. All of these Infusium 23 products have very nice fresh scent. After use of the shampoo, conditioner and leave-in treatment, my hair is so soft and seems much more healthy. It’s so important to take care of your hair when you heat style it.

Products are available at major retailers nationwide.

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

Enjoy!

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of September 15, 2014

September sure is going by quickly! Fall is this Tuesday! I thought I would let you know what I am enjoying this week while I drink my iced Pumpkin Spice Latte. It’s almost fall, but it’s still pretty warm outside.

This week, I have been loving a facial mask with wine antioxidants, new shavers, a hydrating hair mask and a new natural bath and body line.

Pur Minerals Wine Exfoliating Mask ($29 USD) — Pür’s Wine Exfoliating Mask gently buffs away rough, dull skin with natural peach stones (seeds) as it fights signs of premature aging with red wine antioxidants from Bordeaux’s finest vineyards. Watch lines, dark spots and uneven skin fade from sight as Farm to Jar™ ingredients work to reveal a visibly more youthful glow. Paraben-free. Gluten-free.

What I think: This mask smells like a delicious glass of red wine! It can be used as a scrub or a mask and either way, leaves my skin smooth. I have noticed my skin is more even toned as well.

Available at http://www.purminerals.com

BIC Soleil Glow Razor ($7.49 USD for a three pack) — Get a super close shave and dare to bare all. These razors effortlessly glides for a silky-smooth finish. The innovative COMFORT SHIELD™ head evenly distributes pressure and helps protect skin from irritation. Lubricating strips with Vitamin E and Aloe pamper skin while the pivoting head and rubber grip handle deliver a flawlessly smooth shave.

What I think: I was pleasantly surprised by this razor. It is rare to get a close shave by a razor that has moisturizers on it. But, this razor left my legs and underarms so smooth. I definitely recommend these!

Available at a mass market retailer near you.

Carol’s Daughter Tui Color Care Hydrating Mask ($20.00, on sale now for $14): To instantly fix dull, color-treated hair so it can have all the softness, shine and vibrancy you want. Enriched with Cacao Butter and Olive and Maurita Fruit Oils to rescue and deeply condition your hair.

What I think: Carol’s Daughter’s products always smell fantastic, and this one is no exception. I apply this mask to wet hair and leave on for about 5 minutes and rinse. I get super-soft and moisturized hair.

Available at http://www.carolsdaugther.com

Essence of Beauty Naturally Indulgent Bath & Body Collection

I’m excited to let you know that Essence of Beauty, CVS/pharmacy’s #1 best-selling fragrance and body care line, is launching the NEW Naturally Indulgent Bath & Body Collection this month, exclusively at CVS/pharmacy and online at www.CVS.com!

The exclusive line ($5.99-$9.99) is infused with nourishing, aromatic botanical ingredients and essential oils to bring the benefits of botanicals into your everyday body care regimen, with products to fulfill each part of the bath ritual, available in the following scents:

Lemon Verbena with Olive Oil – Energizing lemon verbena and soothing olive oil refresh and stimulate your senses
Eucalyptus with Mint Oil – Soothing eucalyptus and spearmint oil cool and refresh your body
Lavender with Rosemary Oil – Soft, calming lavender and rejuvenating rosemary oil relax your mind and body

Each scent includes seven naturally-inspired bath and body products: Hand Cream, Body Butter, Sugar Scrub, Botanical Body Wash, Foaming Bath Soak, Nourishing Body Oil and Shea Butter Bar Soap. The formulas contain plant extracts and essential oils, and the line is free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum and gluten.

What I think: I have tried the Foaming Bath Soak and Body Wash in the Lavender and the Body Wash and Hand Cream in the Lemon Verbena. Both scents are wonderful — the Lavender is very soothing and the Lemon Verbena is invigorating! All products are very nice!

Available at http://www.cvs.com and CVS pharmacy’s

What have you been loving this week? Please leave a comment and let me know!

Seeing Wrinkles? Try La Roche-Posay’s Redermic [C] Eyes

I was recently chosen as La Roche-Posay’s Blogger of the Month For September. How exciting!

La Roche-Posay asked me to chose an item to review and I chose Redermic [C] Eyes ($44.99). As a lady in my forties, taking care of my eye area is so important. Not only are the eyes the windows to your soul, they give people a peek into your age!

The claim for Redermic [C] Eyes is that it plumps, fills* and visibly reduces crow’s feet wrinkles. Suitable for sensitive skin. The benefits are:

With 0.1% fragmented hyaluronic acid to visibly plump skin
Non-greasy, velvety texture
Use as a daily moisturizer to treat crow’s feet wrinkles and improve firmness
Immediate blurring effect on uneven skin tone
Suitable for sensitive skin

What I think: This is a really special eye cream. Right after applying around my eye area, the skin look smoother, glowing and much younger. I pat it in under my eye, around the side and under the brow bone. As I have been using it for a few weeks, I really do notice an improvement of the texture of my skin. No crows feet, yay!

I highly recommend this eye cream and the La Roche-Posay brand! Check out their Facebook page and their website http://www.laroche-posay.us.

Product Round-Up — My Fave Beauty Things Week of September 8, 2014!

We are a couple of weeks into September and it is cooling down and feeling like fall. I am into pumpkin spice lattes, candy corn and… tropical fragrances! I guess I’m not yet ready to let go of summer.

This week I am loving a mini makeup applicator, a quick skin smoothing facial, yummy bath and fragrance products that smell like coconut, a tropical scented perfume and a fresh facial mist.

beautyblender micro.mini ($17.95 for two) — This makeup blender lets you perfect makeup application in the inner eye corners, brow bones, sides of nose, cheeks, and more. Designed with exclusive beautyblender® material and one fourth the size of the original sponge, these non-disposable micro.mini sponges are the perfect tool for concealing small areas. Simply wet them so that they increase in size so that you can highlight and contour your face and ensure less makeup waste.

What I think: I love my regular sized beautyblender. I use it for primer and foundation each day. These micro.minis make applying concealer and highlighter so easy. And they are too cute!

Available at http://www.sephora.com

REN Flash Rinse 1 Minute Facial ($48 USD) — Formulated with potent water-activated vitamin C, this one-minute facial gives immediate spa facial results, leaving skin firm, toned, and smoothed. It reduces signs of fatigue, photo-aging, and skin imperfections, and skin instantly glows with renewed health and radiance.

What I think: This is so easy to use. Just apply it to a dry face, massage it in, add water that will activate the Vitamin C in the gel. Leave it on a minute and rinse off. Skin is so soft and firm! I think I will use this once a week for younger looking skin.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

Pacifica Indian Coconut Nectar Take Me There

Desert Essence Coconut Travel Kit

Pacifica Indian Coconut Nectar Take Me There ($18 USD, $26 value) –Pacifica Take Me There Sets are the ideal gift for everyone. Perfectly portable products that are easy to carry with fragrances that will carry you away! Each Take Me There Set contains the purse-ready 2.5oz Body Butter, .33oz Perfume Roll-on and delicious NEW Color Quench Natural Moisture Lip Tint.

Desert Essence Coconut Travel Kit – ($8.24 USD) — Four of our most popular Coconut products come together in travel-friendly sizes so you can take your natural favorites wherever you go. Ultra-hydrating Coconut Oil and natural moisturizers like Shea Butter and Jojoba leave skin and hair nourished and gently cleansed. Each 1.5-oz tube comes individually packaged—no pouch or box included—to more easily fit into your getaway.

What I think: I know it’s almost fall, but I am still loving the scent of coconut! I love to use coconut scented lotion all year-long. The Pacifica kit lets you layer your coconut scent and the Desert Essence set is perfect for fall getaways. Both smell amazing!

The Pacifica set is available at http://www.pacificabeauty.com and the Desert Essence set is available at http://www.desertessence.com.

Lavanila The Healthy Roller-Ball in Vanilla Summer ($19 USD) –Tropical mango, juicy pineapple, creamy coconut milk, and island sugar cane are steeped in base of warm Madagascar vanilla for the ultimate summer scent. Breathtaking sunsets meet the sounds of lapping waves in this limited-edition must-have fragrance.

What I think: I know, I know, another summer scent and it is almost fall. I can’t help it, though, it smells fantastic. It’s really sweet and tangy, like a pina colada. Love!

Available at http://www.lavanila.com

Amarte Aqua Mist ($68 USD) — Aqua Mist® provides an uplifting citrus spritz for an instant complexion boost. This antioxidant spray mist toner contains a uniquely elegant formulation of arbutin, elemental sulfur, and six botanical extracts to clarify, brighten, and soften skin.

What I think: What a luxe face mist! The scent is so refreshing and when I spray it on, it feels amazing! I find that my skin is soft and bright, and ready for my creams and makeup once I spritz it on. A really fun splurge!

Available at http://www.amarteskincare.com

What are you loving this week? Are you trying any fun new products. Please leave a comment and let me know.

New Fall Offerings From L’Occitane!

I have recently received a wonderful package of new fall L’Occitane products for my honest review. As a fan of L’Occitane, I was so excited!

L’Occitane has introduced a face oil to their luxurious Divine collection, fresh body gels and other soaps to their Bonne Mine Collection and a new bath and body collection called Aromachologie.

I really enjoyed testing these products as they contain natural ingredients that I feel good about applying to my skin.

L'Occitane Divine Oil — L’Occitane Divine Oil

L’Occitane Divine Youth Oil ($96 USD) — This ‘liquid gold’ formula features seven unique plant oils to enhance skin’s overall texture and radiance. To be used both day and night; this luxurious lightweight oil ($96) will give skin a much-needed surge of moisture.

What I think: Love this luxurious oil. I have been using it in place of my night time serum. It is so moisturizing, and once it sinks it, it is not greasy at all. In the morning, my skin is so soft and hydrated.

L'Occitane Bonne Mere Lemon Shower Gel — L’Occitane Bonne Mere Lemon Shower Gel

L’Occitane Bonne Mere Collection: In honor of the original Marseille Soap, we celebrate our Provencal heritage by introducing the newest additions to the Bonne Mere family. This collection includes our emblematic Marseille cube Soap ($14), a Marseille Liquid Soap ($20), and stackable Shower Gels ($14) in five yummy Peach, Honey, Lemon, Rosemary & Olive.

I have been enjoying the Bonne Mere Lemon Shower Gel ($14 USD) — Enriched with lemon essential oil, this shower gel gently cleanses the body and perfumes it with a zesty and sunny fragrance, transporting you to an early morning stroll through the market of Menton, Provence. Tested under dermatological control.

What I think: This shower gel has such a lovely fresh scent. I have been using it also as a shave gel, and it works really well. Plus, the scent of lemon lingers on my skin. I would love to try it in the other scents, too. The containers are stackable (there is a square indentation on the bottom of the bottle), so you can have a few in your shower and they won’t take up too much space.

L'Occitane Revitalizing Ritual Duo — L’Occitane Revitalizing Ritual Duo

Aromachologie Relaxing & Revitalizing Body Collection (launching today!): Consisting of two aromatic ranges, this duo collection is the much needed solution to a long, tiresome work day. Use the Relaxing products for a moment of escape, and the Revitalizing ones to recharge your energy, invigorating the mind, body & soul. From Body Oil ($34), to Body Scrub ($34), to Bath Salts ($24), and Shower Gels ($20), we have something for everyone!

L’Occintane Revitalizing Ritual Duo ($45, if purchased separately, $54) — This duo includes:
-Aromachologie Revitalizing Shower Gel 8.4 fl.oz — Made with essential oils, this invigorating shower gel revitalizes and gently cleanses the skin without drying. Its 100% natural fresh scent has proven energizing effectiveness*, providing a boost to start your day.
-Aromachologie Revitalizing Body Scrub 7 .oz — This reinvigorating body scrub contains sugar crystals to slough away dead skin cells and reveal radiant skin. Its 100% natural scent offers proven energizing effectiveness.

What I think: I believe the scent of these are citrus and mint, it is so refreshing! After using both products in the bath (love baths!) — My dry skin was so soft and smelled amazing!

I loved all of the new L’Occitane products I sampled — are you going to try any of these fab products? Leave a comment and let me know!

It’s Time For ULTA Beauty’s 21 Days of Beauty For Fall 2014!

Two times each year, ULTA Beauty hosts 21 Days of Beauty – a three-week celebration featuring special offers, expert beauty tips, and brand focus days.

Each day, for 21 days, ULTA Beauty features one “Beauty Steal” and one “Beauty Focus Day” — Beauty Steals are special offers on top beauty products, and Beauty Focus Days feature demonstrations like customized makeup lessons, expert beauty tips, and one-on-one appointments with beauty authorities for all categories. 21 Days of Beauty participants include top cosmetic and skin care brands, including: Urban Decay, Tarte, IT Cosmetics, Bare Minerals, Butter LONDON, Philosophy and more.

This beauty extravaganza is celebrated in all ULTA Beauty stores nationwide with special offers also available on ulta.com.

bareMinerals Lash Domination Volumizing Mascara

Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash

Today’s deals are any bareMinerals mascara 50% off and Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash 8oz size on sale for only $15 (normally $27)!

So, visit ULTA Beauty today and http://www.ulta.com and the following 20 days for great deals! Also, follow my blog for a great Ulta giveaway announcement soon!