Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

My Beauty Faves Week of December 22-28, 2014 — Z Skin Systems, Kesh Beauty, essence, Morgan Taylor and got2b

A hope you all had a fab Christmas. New Year’s Eve is around the corner! There is so much going on, my skin has to be flawless and my make-up has to be long-wearing, plus, of course, I need gorgeous nails and hair!

The following products help with all of that!

ZSS Skincare Method NO. 1: Radiant Skin Formula ($160 USD) — Each monthly package contains a 30-day supply of 0.5oz Nutri-Serum and dietary supplements. ZZSS Skincare Method No.1 for Radiant Skin helps keep skin radiant in spite of environmental challenge, supports healthy skin with age, promotes skin hydration and reduces redness caused by the skin’s exposure to the outside world.^* This system is made from naturally sourced ingredients that engage the internal and external science of beautiful skin. Featuring our signature Nutri-Serum — to help repair damaged, dry and sensitive skin, diffuse redness, and provide skin firming and toning.

What I think: I have been testing this for a few weeks and have noticed that my skin is less red than before and is very hydrated. The serum is absorbed right into the skin, so I have been using it day and night and really like it! My skin tone also seems clearer.

Available at zss-skincare.com

Kesh Beauty Argan Oil Pure

Kesh Beauty Argan Oil with Orange Blossom Essence

Kesh Beauty Argan Oil with Rose Essence

Discover the beauty that radiates from every drop of Kesh Beauty Moroccan Argan Oil ($40 USD each). Available in Pure, Rose and Orange Blossom scents, the 100% organic cold-pressed argan oils are true multitaskers. Non-comedogenic and ideal for all skin and hair types, the unique single-dose spray dispenser delivers the perfect amount every time. Use it to nourish hair and skin from head to toe, while preventing and improving visible signs of aging.

What I think: These oils are so moisturizing and smell fantastic — my favorite is the Orange Blossom scent. I like to use it on my hair (to scent and hydrate), my cuticles and my body after a bath. So luxurious!

Purchase at http://www.keshbeauty.com

essence STAYS no matter what eye pencil and shadow in chocolate brownie

essence LASH mania reloaded waterproof

essence eyeliner pen waterproof

essence STAYS no matter what eye pencil & shadow ($2.99 USD) — This soft-textured, waterproof and long-lasting eye pencil and shadow lasts up to 16 hours – perfect for a Netflix marathon during a wintery stay-cation! The jumbo pencil-shadow-combo is blendable and easy to apply. Available in 6 colors including twinkling turquoise and chocolate brownie.

essence LASH mania reloaded waterproof ($4.99 USD) — Spread holiday cheer and laugh until you cry without worries! This innovative, elastomer, star-shaped brush accurately grips lashes, providing the ultimate faux-lash look – now in a waterproof formula!

essence eyeliner pen waterproof ($2.99 USD) — Throw away bulky jars and opt for a sleek, retractable gel eye pencil. This soft, waterproof and long-lasting formula is velvety and highly pigmented to make eyes pop when sneaking away on a tropical vay-cay. Available in a total of 6 colors to complement any look from beach bum to ski bunny.

What I think: These products are very waterproof and affordable! And since waterproof makeup is perfect all-year long (holiday tears anyone!). The eyeliners are available in lots of long-wearing shades and the mascara separates and stays on all day!

What I think: These affordable eye products can give a dramatic eye for new years and beyond! I love the range of colors and staying power of the gel eyeliners and the eyeliner pen is very easy to use. Waterproof mascara is useful year round, and this one doesn’t smudge or flake.

Available at Ulta stores and http://www.ulta.com.

This winter, dress your nails with an alluring personality by donning Morgan Taylor’s Midnight Masquerade Winter 2014 color collection ($8.50 a bottle), which features six all-new shades inspired by the mystique of an after-hours affair. Lavish hues of burgundy, natural crème and everything in between make up this range, which is sure to glam up the dull winter months.

The six brand-new limited-edition shades are:

Vixen in A Mask: Sultry Scarlet shimmer

Jest-er Kidding: Platinum multicolor glitter

Flirting With The Phantom: Natural mauve crème

Don’t Rain on My Masquerade: Bronze pink glitter

The Big Reveal: Deep emerald shimmer

My Kind of Ball Gown: Vibrant rose crème

What I think: I love Morgan Taylor polishes. The color choices are gorgeous and they last almost a week without chipping! My favorite of this collection is My Kind of Ball Gown with Jest-er Kidding over it. So pretty!

Available at http://www.morgantaylorlacquer.com

got2b glossy anti-frizz shine serum

got2b 2sexy voluptuous volume hairspray

got2b POWDER’ful volumizing styling powder

Get gorgeous hair for any occasion this holiday season with got2b! Whether you’re bouncing from party to party or planning your own glam get-together, got2b will keep you hair looking its best all the way into the new year!

For incredible shine & to fight frizz use got2b glossy anti-frizz shine serum ($5.99 USD). Loaded with conditioning agents, this alcohol-free serum will control flyaways and give hair a luxurious shine. Perfect for color treated hair, it is also formulated with UV absorbers to keep hair strong and healthy.

For ultimate volume, use got2b 2sexy voluptuous volume hairspray ($7.49 USD) to achieve and maintain big, show-stopping, sexy hair. Naturally derived rice starch gives locks instant and long-lasting body, texture, and volume. The new Studio Sized can (12 oz.) and high performance BODY 10 boosting complex will bring your hair to new heights and hold for the ultimate style statement.

For a quick pick-me-up, use got2b POWDER’ful volumizing styling powder ($5.99 USD). Formulated with virtually weightless micro-particles that help texturize the hair’s surface, you can give your hair a radical root lift in ten seconds flat!

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Last Minute Holiday Beauty Gifts!

Do you have all of your gifts yet? Beauty gifts set are perfect because they allow the recipient to try different types of items that they haven’t used before. And they are so much fun to get!

So what are you waiting for? Here are some ideas:

Spa Heroes ($39 per month) is a the new monthly beauty subscription service dedicated to spa-approved skin, sun and hair care products that are free of health-hazardous ingredients, celebrates the season with a short list of holiday treats – to gift and to get.

I received the November box (above) to test. The hero product is Spa Technologies Age Defense for Luminous Eyes (left, retails for $79). This light cream contains a cell-rejuvenating mix of organic marine algae, liquid oxygen and micronized silver. Soy and rice bran peptides actively decongest and reduce dark circles while omega-3-endowed laminaria and porphyra algae strengthen tissue. I love this eye treatment it sinks right into my skin and makes the skin around my eye area so smooth!

The box also contained a generous 2 oz sample of Spa Technologies Hydrating Laminaria Oil for dry skin on hands, elbows, etc. It smells fantastic and is very moisturizing!

Subscribe for yourself or someone deserving of good-for-you products at http://www.spaheroes.com.

Carol’s Daughter Marula Curl Therapy Collection 3-Piece Starter Kit ($24 USD) — To pamper your curls and train them to spiral into long-lasting perfection, Carol’s Daughter has used the super-softening, rich Marula oil in this new Marula Curl Therapy Collection. Experiment with the nourishing benefits of Marula Oil with this three piece starter kit, featuring the Marula Gentle Cream Cleanser, Diffusing & Styling Lotion and Softening Hair Mask.

These smell amazing and leaves hair soft and silky.

Available at www.carolsdaughter.com.

Burt’s Bees Holiday Gift Collection ($5 to $15 USD) — is full of natural, ‘no wrap needed’ personal care gift sets and stocking stuffers for everyone on your list this year. From the busy mom to the selfie obsessed teen, outdoorsy guy to your favorite teacher – we’ve got you covered.

The best part, they’re all available at your local drugstore. Besides, who doesn’t love a little natural beauty? Learn more at http://www.burtsbees.com

Big T NYC COUTURE COLLECTION Gift Set ($65 USD) — Premium loose leaf tea is HOT! Give the gift of luxury with this exclusive Couture Collection gift pack. It includes our debut collection of three Big T NYC organic teas, an infuser, and a guide to making the perfect cup of loose leaf tea. The Teas included are amazing! They are:

TELL-TALE GLOW White Tea: premium organic Bai Mudan white tea blended with Goji berries, Elderberries, and Zante currants.

UNEXPECTED FLING Green Tea: This premium, organic, Sencha green tea is infused with rose and cherry.

BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Black Tea: ultra premium loose leaf organic Vietnamese Black & Chinese Oolong tea blend, infused with maple essential oils, Indonesian vanilla & California almonds.

I have tried them all, and they are fantastic. The black tea is perfect for cold days, the green tea is floral and spring-y tasting and the white tea is fresh and bright!

Purchase at http://www.bigtnyc.com

Lady Gaga Fame Gift Set ($21.99 USD) — Out of the ordinary, like Lady Gaga herself, this fragrance is built around three main accords: dark, sensual and light. This unique scent is the first black Eau de Parfum that sprays clear and becomes invisible once airborne. Includes a 1.0 fl oz EDP, and 2.5 fl oz Shower Gel.

This fragrance is really sexy and the black fluid is so cool!

Available at Kohl’s and mass drugstores nationwide.

Skin&Co Roma The Holiday Stocking Stuffer — Here’s the kit to surprise your family and friends with Stocking Sized to stuff your Holiday Stockings! Whether they love Truffle or Sicilian Orange, here’s a kit that embraces both collections!

THE GIFT:

– 3 PCS Truffle Body Gel (2 FL OZ/ EA)
– 3 PCS Sicilian Body Gel (2 FL OZ/EA)
– 2 PCS Sicilian Body Lotion (2FL OZ/EA)
– 2 PCS Truffle Body Milk (2FL OZ/EA)
– 1 Holiday Bag

This luxe set will be a hit with bath and body lovers!

Purchase at http://www.skinandcoroma.com.

Pure Vanilla Mini Deo Duo ($14 USD) — Indulge in the freshness of vanilla with this award-winning Mini Deo Duo. Inspired by nature, soothing essential oils blend with powerful anti-oxidants and beta-glucan technology for superior, on-the-go odor protection. Set includes 2x Pure Vanilla Mini Deodorant.

This is a perfect natural stocking stuffer!

Available at http://www.lavanila.com

Last Minute Beauty Stocking Stuffers

Still stuffing stockings? I am! I have compiled a list of great stocking stuffers for the beauty conscious lady — and man — in your life! Pick your fave one, two or three and gift beautifully!

jane iredale Eye Shere Liquid Eye Shadow ($17 each) — For a festive stocking stuffer, try the smooth and luxurious Eye Shere Liquid Eye Shadow available in two new Limited Edition shimmering shades: Opal Silk, a shimmery opalescent white and Gold Silk, a shimmery sheer gold. This quick-drying liquid eye shadow has a smooth and luxurious formula that will not crease or smear, and helps to camouflage shadows and veins on the eyelid. The new shades can be used alone, beneath powder eye shadow for added intensity, for over powder eye shadow for a high shimmer effect.

These are so pretty! They are shimmery, but very wearable. I wore the gold one all over my eyelid today and it was a sheer wash of color. LOVE!

Available at http://www.janeiredale.com

L’Occitane Shea Butter Travel Treats ($24, on sale on the website for $20) — A nourishing set of Shea Butter hand and foot cream – a nice surprise to hang on the tree.

My favorite hand cream and a foot cream, too?! Awesome gift!

Available at http://www.usa.loccitane.com and fine beauty stores

VOLANTÉ Transformative Eye Crème ($85) — The endless holiday nights and late last-minute gift shopping never looked so good with this feather-light crème infused with peptides, clinically proven to help reduce dark circles. Powered by the 7 VITAE Complex, this crème improves the tone, texture and brightness of the skin around the eye.

This is a great luxury cream for someone special, or for yourself! Available at volanteskincare.com.

Burt’s Bees Natural Skin Care for Men Deodorant ($8 USD) — Go ahead and strut your stuff. Made from an odor-fighting botanical, our powerful natural deodorant harnesses energizing Citrus Oils, woodsy Cyprus and Warm Fir to keep you smelling and feeling your best. Bring on the day.

My husband’s stocking is always the hardest one for me. He is going to love this deodorant, it smells fantastic! And the line also includes bar soap, body wash, shave cream and aftershave, and a nice gift set, too!

Available at http://www.burtsbees.com and mass market retailers near you.

Beauticontrol Moisturizing Body Bar - Juicy Pear — Beauticontrol Moisturizing Body Bar – Juicy Pear

Moisturizing Body Bar Juicy Pear ($10 or $26 for all three) — A trio of tantalizingly scented body bars are perfect for all skin types. They luxuriously wash away dirt, oil and dead skin cells, leaving skin refreshed and soft. Available in three delicious scents: Exotic Beaches, Juicy Pear and Verbena Blossom.

These smell fantastic and make great gifts for moms and sisters (and friends, etc…)

Available at http://www.beauticontrol.com

Smashbox Be Legendary Lip Gloss ($20 USD) — Inspired by photo gels found on set, Smashbox created this glassy gloss with a clear, hydrating base free of traditional heavy binders for a non-sticky finish. Then they infused the formula slowly with vibrant pigments using a careful mixing process for an ultra refined pigmentation in which all of the gloss ingredients are perfectly dispersed. The result is a superlight, comfortable blend that you can hardly feel, but that still leaves a bold wash of gorgeous color—just like a photo gel.

Gorgeous gloss in an array of colors for every lady!

Available at http://www.smashbox.com and luxe beauty stores nationwide.

Makeup Gifts That Will Make Her Holiday Bright!

Makeup sets are such a fun gift to give (and to receive). The great thing about them is that there’s so many choices in different price ranges — it’s easy to find a gift for a friend, babysitter or teacher. Or mother, sister…the list is endless!

So grab a few of these great gifts below and pass out the pretty this holiday season!

Pür Minerals Let It Glow! Makeup Stick Trio ($24 USD) Give your skin a rosy glow with this limited-edition set that offers three twist-up makeup sticks that highlight your features for natural radiance. Define, contour and brighten while conditioning for smoother, softer skin.

Available at www.purminerals.com.

Lancome All Over Face Palette ($55 USD) — Take your makeup look from day to night with the ‘All Over Face’ palette that features nine new eyeshadow shades, plus two contouring essentials.

COLOR DESIGN Sensational Effects Eye Shadow X 9 — In Blizzard, Starlight, Onyx Eve, Warm Cocoa, Fox, Smolder, Cashmere, Fawn and Mink Me.

BLUSH SUBTIL Delicate Oil-Free Powder Blush in Everything Nice

STAR BRONZER Long Lasting Bronzing Powder in Cinnamon and Spice

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

Robin McGraw Revelation Pure Joy Lip Gloss Collection ($49.95 For all for or $15.95 USD) — A collection of four high-shine lip glosses with brilliant color and subtle shimmer makes a special gift for a loved one – or for yourself. A luxurious, non-sticky formula creates the perfect look for any celebration.

The set contains:

Frosty Glaze: A Champagne Shimmer

Rainbow Rose: A Sparkling Blush

Confetti Red: A True Ruby Red

Sprinkle Pink: A Bright Berry Pink

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

Avon Makeup Studio Palette ($24.99 USD) — Perfect for a girl on the go, this palette is a holiday hit. It’s sized to carry everywhere, for touch-ups, or transitioning makeup from day to night. The set includes 25 eye shadows, 12 lip glosses, 2 blushes, 2 bronzers and 3 brushes.

Available at visit Avon.com to locate a Representative or shop online.

ck one eye essentials gift set

ck one high-shine gloss trio holiday set

ck one has great gift sets for the holidays:

ck one eye essentials gift set ($25 USD) — For a great bargain, the ck one eye essentials gift set features everything needed to create a complete eye look, including volumizing mascara in black 800, powder eyeshadow in ambitious 710, and double-ended eyeliner in genius/radical 800.

ck one high-shine gloss trio holiday set ($20 USD) — A great stocking stuffer, the ck one high-shine gloss trio holiday set features three high-shine gloss tubes in wearable shades for every occasion. the line includes two existing shades, proper 300, tender 810, and one limited-edition shade, faithful 910, a sparkling, translucent shade.

Available at Ulta stores and http://www.ulta.com

Are you picking up a makeup kit for someone special this holiday season? Which one? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Faves Week of December 8-14, 2014 — Neutrogena, Colgate Enamel Health , Dermarose, Eco-Me and Little Twig

I can’t believe that it is less than two weeks until Christmas. I am not even close to being done with my shipping. So I am a bit stressed!

As I don’t want my skin to show the signes of stress, I have been loving new skincare as well as organic dish soap, baby body wash and a great new toothpaste and toothbrush!

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

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream ($20.99 USD) — Neutrogena® Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream works quickly with visible results in just one week!

By combining a unique combination of Retinol SA, Glucose Complex, and Hyaluronic Acid, Rapid Wrinkle Repair® Eye Cream moisturizes and renews the look of skin throughout the day.

Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer ($20.99 USD) — Visibly fade the look of stubborn wrinkles with our fastest Retinol formula available! So effective, 100% of women tested had noticeable results in just one week.

Featuring its unique combination of Retinol SA, Glucose Complex, and Hyaluronic Acid, Rapid Wrinkle Repair® Night Moisturizer moisturizes and renews the look of skin throughout the day, and helps to smooth wrinkles fast and diminish the look of age spots. Skin is left feeling smooth and looking younger.

What I think: I have been using these products for about a week. I have noticed that my skin is clearer and smoother.

Available at a mass market retailer near you. Learn more at http://www.neutrogena.com.

Colgate Enamel Health Whitening Toothpaste

Colgate Enamel Health Toothbrush

Colgate Enamel Health Whitening Toothpaste ($4.99 USD) — Did you know that when your hygienist polishes your teeth, it also helps smooth your enamel to help prevent germ buildup? Introducing new Colgate® Enamel Health™ toothpaste, a unique formula that helps replenish and polish for healthy enamel.

Colgate Enamel Health Toothbrush ($5.99 USD. for 2 Pack) — Want a toothbrush that effectively cleans your whole mouth, helps remove stains AND has a gentle touch? The bristles of the Colgate® 360°® Enamel Health™ Sensitive Toothbrush pack this triple punch. Its soft bristles protect gums and enamel, its cheek and tongue cleaner helps remove bacteria, and its whitening cups gently help remove surface stains.

What I think: I have been enjoying using this duo. The toothpaste and brush leave my teeth smooth and my breath fresh. And my teeth are definitely getting a little whiter!

Available at a mass market retailer near you. Learn more at www.colgateenamelhealth.com.

Dermarose Swiss Rose Stem Cell Anti-Aging Eye Serum ($135 USD) — The source of Dermarose’s highly effective formula is the Swiss Rose, a resilient flower that thrives in the most adverse environmental conditions high in the Swiss Alps. The plant’s unique stem cells never undergo an aging process and are equipped with regenerative powers that continuously self-renew. Stem cells obtained from the Swiss Rose have been shown to have the same protective and regenerative effect on human skin cells as they do on the plant’s delicate flowers. Dermarose scientists combine three powerful compounds, PhytoCellTec Alp Rose, HALOXYL and EYELISS, to create an efficient and ultra-effective serum proven to reduce dark circles, puffiness and fine lines. These combined ingredients dramatically reduce the signs of aging around the eyes.

What I think: This luxe eye serum feels fantastic when applied. It smoothes out the skin under my eyes and my darks circles do seem lighter. I will need to use it a little longer to see more results, but I am hopeful!

Purchase at www.dermaroseskincare.com and www.dermstore.com

Eco-Me Natural Plant Extract Dish Soap ($5.99 USD) — Natural sudsing Dish Soap, lemon fresh scent. Tough on grease, gentle on hands with glycerin and natural plant extracts

What I think: Love this dish soap! It smells really fresh and bright, plus it dissolves grease and leaves my dishes very clean.

Available at http://www.eco-me.com

Little Twig Calming Lavender Baby Wash ($12.50 for 8.5oz., $17.50 for 17oz., $31.99 for 34oz.) — Shower your little one in serenity with this organic blend of essential oils and mild foam. Our formula combines skin softening vitamin E with just a whisper of lavender and chamomile. Gentle enough for newborns.

What I think: I don’t have a baby, but my family has been enjoying this calming body wash. It has a soft, lavender scent and leaves our skin very soft. I love natural products for babies because you know that it is gentle on their sensitive skin.

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

Last Minute Bath, Body and Home Holiday Gift Ideas

Have you found all of your gifts yet for friends, family and teachers? Below are some great gift sets that anyone would be happy to receive!

Le Couvent des Minime Hand Cream Trio — Le Couvent des Minimes Hand Cream Trio

Le Couvent des Minimes Hand Cream Trio ($19.50, $24.00 Value) — This essential gift sets includes the brand’s best-loved hand creams. Made with treasured heritage recipes, Le Couvent des Minimes hand creams are both natural and restorative.

The trio includes:

Gardener’s Hand Cream (0.8 oz.): The award-winning, best-selling cream with Shea Butter and seven skin beneficial plant extracts.

Nourishing Hand Cream (0.8 oz.): A Honey and Shea infused cream with a delicate Honey aroma.

Soothing Night Hand Cream (0.8 oz.): A calming cream that’s perfect for bedtime with soothing Lavender and Acacia.

Available at usa.lecouventdesminimes.com

Mary Kay Winter Wishes Shimmeriffic Shower Gel and Shimmeriffic Body Lotion Gift Set ($25 USD) — For skin that shimmers with a scent that shines, it’s everything she could wish for in one perfectly packaged set. The set includes Shimmeriffic Body Lotion, Shimmeriffic Shower Gel and a decorative tin.

Features cheerful, fruity notes like snow apple and citrus sparkle.
Warms the heart with floral notes of jasmine petals and cozy musk.
Body lotion adds a subtle shimmer to skin.
Ideal for gift-giving – packaged in a festive holiday tin.

Available at http://www.marykay.com

Avon Femme Fragrance Gift Set ($30 USD) — The essence of glamour is captured in an alluring blend of rich jasmine petals, magnolia and amberwoods, all packaged in a beautiful gift box. The set includes an Eau de Parfum spray, Body Lotion and Fragrance Compact.

Available from an Avon representative and http://www.avon.com

Whish Holiday Set in Vanilla Spice ($20 USD) — Is soft skin on your list for the holidays? Luxuriate in a bath or long shower with our moisturizing body wash. Indulge your senses while you refine, polish, and pamper with our sugar scrub. Replenish and prepare for moisturized perfection with our triple antioxidant body butter. Now take that winter skin.

Holiday Set is made in the USA with Earth friendly packaging and ingredients. Tested on us, not animals.

Set includes:
Body Wash: 3 oz/265 mL
Body Butter: 3 oz/265 mL
Sugar Scrub: 3 oz/265 mL

Available at http://www.whishbody.com

Robin McGraw Revelation Light Of My Life Candles ($16.95 each or $49.95 for the set of 4) — The “Light of My Life” candles are made with a soy wax blend and 100% cotton wicks, giving you 10 hours of burn time to enjoy each unique scent.

3 oz. net. / 85 g.
No animal testing

Scents:

The Phillip: An Evening at Home

Spicy cardamom in a jasmine base is lifted by a green floral finish.
Deep and complex.

The Jay: A Day on the Ocean

Rose, lilac and jasmine are balanced by fenugreek and vanilla to conjure sunny days at the beach.
Light and refreshing.

The Jordan: A Night on the Town

Vetiver top notes are grounded by cedar, vanilla and cloves.
Clean and woodsy, but intense.

The London: Summers of Our Youth

Citrus top notes of grapefruit and bergamot paired with a mellow leather and amber accord.
Clean and sweet.

Take care. Give care. We are committing 100% of the net proceeds from the “Light Of My Life” Candles Collection to support domestic violence prevention programs through When Georgia Smiled: The Robin McGraw Revelation Foundation.

Available at http://www.robinmcgrawrevelation.com

L’Occibox — L’Occitane’s First Sampling Box

My L’Occibox arrived (I was sent it for my honest review)! What’s that, you ask? L’OcciBox (pronounced “LOX – EE – BOX”) is a $15 sampling box that will offer our shoppers mini versions of some of the latest and greatest L’Occitane products once per season. No recurring sign up is required, and each box will debut with a beautiful, pre-selected assortment of L’OCCITANE items and an exclusive gift from a special partner. Partners will change each season, and our first is ELLE magazine.

It came in the cute little box above. Here are more photos:

These are the entire contents of the box:

– Precious Cleansing Foam 1.7 fl.oz
– Shea Butter Body Milk 1.7 .oz
– Arlésienne Hand Cream 0.3 .oz
– Almond Supple Skin Oil 0.5 fl.oz
– Immortelle Sample Divine Cream 0.05 .oz x2
– L’OcciBox Box
– Shea ELLE Hand Cream 0.3 .oz
– Cherry Blossom ELLE Hand Cream 0.3 .oz
– Verbena ELLE Hand Cream 0.3 .oz
– Almond ELLE Hand Cream 0.3 .oz
– ELLE Pouch

These sweet little shea hand creams and the nail file were in the Elle bag.

The rest of the items.

I love this adorable box of goodies! It’s pretty small, but it holds a lot of good things. I have been loving the face wash and the body lotion. And the shea hand creams are one of my favorite hand creams of all time!

Purchase using this link: http://usa.loccitane.com/locciboxset. The promo code is DISCOVER (*to be entered at check out)

Please note the box is listed on the website at its full retail value ($50+), but when the code is applied, the box becomes $15. Also, it is not combinable with any other promotions.

Are you going to purchase once of these cute sets for gifts, or for yourself?

Beauty Stocking Stuffer Ideas from Soap and Paper Factory, Softlips, Skindinavia and Mary Kay

I have three daughters — so Santa has lots of stockings to stuff! Beauty gifts are always a great idea for women of all ages!

My youngest daughter (10) loves the Softlips cube, my middle daughter (15) loves how the fragrance wand smells, my eldest (19) has fun with nail polish, the soaps and candle is perfect for my mother-in-law (not saying age!), and I would love the Skindinavia!!!

Which of these fab products would you love to give – or love for yourself?

Holiday Spice Shea Butter Hand Cream

Roland Pine Pure Soy Candles

Winter Vanilla Shea Butter Soap

The Soap and Paper Factory — This company has lots of fragrant, lovely packaged products that are perfect for stocking stuffing! From soaps, hand creams, candles, plus lip butters and solid fragrances, there is something for everyone on your list!

Purchase at http://www.soapandpaperfactory.com

Softlips Cube Pomegranate Blueberry ($3.49 USD) — This glass-like, cube-shaped lip balm in a light, fresh Pomegranate Blueberry flavor provides unprecedented, 5 in 1 lip care to hydrate, replenish, smooth, protect with SPF 15 and add a subtle sheen.

Conveniently available at mass retailers, the cheerful-looking Seasonal Edition will make spirits bright for a limited time!

Skindinavia Makeup Primer Spray ($35 for 4 oz, $49 for 8 oz) Get perfect makeup now and a virtually poreless, more even-toned complexion later. Our lightweight, silicone-free primer mist delivers a smooth canvas for impeccable, long-wear makeup application, and offers long-term skin benefits you’ll love as well!

Stuff this in her stocking and she will thank you! One of the best makeup primers I have tried!

Available at http://www.skindinavia.com/products

Mary Kay At Play Hail to the Nails Mini Nail Lacquer Trio ($15 USD) — For the perfect party shades to gift or keep, this triumphant trio nailed it! Mini Nail Lacquer Trio shades include Pink Hottie, Silver Sparkle and Inky Blue. Packaged in a ribboned box that’s ideal for gift-giving.

Purchase at http://www.marykay.com

Mary Kay Winter Wishes Eau de Toilette Wand ($20 USD .25 fl. oz.) — Wishes come true with a wave of this wand – a clean, fresh fragrance that’s adorable as a stocking stuffer. Plus, it smells fantastic, just like the holidays!

Features cheerful, fruity notes like snow apple and citrus sparkle.
Warms the heart with floral notes of jasmine petals and cozy musk.
Easy on-the-go application and touch-ups.
Ideal for gift-giving – packaged in a decorative tube container.
Perfect for purses and travel bags.

Available at www.marykay.com

L’OCCITANE Launches Their First-Ever Sampling Box, L’OcciBox! Hidden Link and Code — You Can Get Yours First!!!

Pamper yourself this Holiday season with L’OcciBox, L’Occitane’s first beauty sampling box! This is a $15 sampling box that will offer our shoppers mini versions of some of the latest and greatest L’Occitane products once per season. No sign up is required, as it is not a subscription. Each box will debut with a beautiful, pre-selected assortment of L’OCCITANE items and an exclusive gift from a special partner. Partners will change each season, and the first is ELLE magazine.

Just in time for the holidays, the first L’OcciBox is wrapped as a present, and available for purchase at L’Occitane boutiques nationwide. I have a special hidden link and promo code so you, my awesome readers, can beat the lines and order online right now!

Hidden Link: http://usa.loccitane.com/locciboxset

Promo Code: ‘DISCOVER’ (*to be entered at check out)

Please note the box is listed on the website at its full retail value ($50+), but when the code is applied, the box becomes $15. Also, it is not combinable with any other promotions.

The first box includes:

Are you picking one up? It’s an amazing value! I will have one to review soon and I will share photos of all of the goodies with you!

My Beauty Faves Week of December 1-7, 2014 — Evo, Memebox, Avalon Organics, Alba Botanica and JĀSÖN

This week I have been trying to tame my flyaway hair and sooth my chapped skin as I get ready for the holidays.

I have been loving a new (to me) haircare line, a new gel mask, organic skin care, coconut oil body care, and a very moisturizing body lotion:

evo ritual salvation shampoo

evo day of grace leave-in conditioner

evo icon welder hot tool shaper

evo haircare — Using a good shampoo and conditioner to build moisture and strength in your hair is the most important step. You need to fill in the gaps in the hair’s health and then use your hot tools to seal that in. It will make your style last longer and give better shine and quality hair. Ritual Salvation Shampoo ($24 USD) and Conditioner ($24 USD) from evo have a repair and hydration factor as well as a UV/UVB factor without being heavy or greasy.

Once the hair is prepped, a good leave-in conditioner will create an even porosity and also an extra layer of moisture to counteract against the heat. Day of Grace ($24 USD) leave in conditioner spray is totally weightless and will give an extra UVA/UVB protection for all hair types.

Icon Welder ($25 USD) by evo is one of the most versatile heat protectors on the market. While giving the hair amazing protection from hot tools, it also has a hold and shine factor that will keep your style in place as well as being completely brushable. Spray over the whole head wet and dry in or spray in dry and brush in before heat styling.

What I think — First of all, I love the fresh scents of this line. It leaves hair smelling amazing! The shampoo leaves my hair soft and shiny. I like that it helps the strength of my hair. The leave in conditioner is light so it doesn’t weigh my hair down, but it does give extra moisture, which is great since my hair is so dry now. I love using a hair protector when I dry or straighten it.

Available at http://us.evohair.com.

Meme Mask ($3 each or $10 for a pack of 5) Korean sheet masks have long received global accolade for their intense moisturizing powers. In November, Memebox brings this K-beauty secret to the international arena with their one-step skin prepping must-have, Meme Mask. This gel mask harnesses the powers of hydration to rejuvenate skin, leaving it smooth and restored. More hydrating than a traditional paper sheet mask, the gel minimizes inflammation and controls sebum production, helping to soothe problem areas around the T-zone.

What I think: This is a very affordable way to add extra moisture to my parched skin. This has a very cool texture and feels amazing on. The directions said to apply for 20-40 minutes, so I used it for 30 and it left my skin very soft.

Purchase at us.memebox.com

Avalon Organics Age-Less — For radiant skin that glows with good health, Avalon® Age-Less facial care is a daily dose of vitamins and age-defying nourishment. Featuring a perfectly calibrated multivitamin complex of Vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K plus powerful antioxidants and quenching moisture, this anti-aging skin care regimen helps to improve skin’s clarity, tone and texture, fend off lines and wrinkles and restore radiance.

The products are:

· Age-less Cleansing Milk ($9.99)

· Age-less Revitalizing Cream ($15.99)

· Age-less Illuminating Serum ($19.99)

· Age-less SPF 15 Daily Moisturizer ($15.99)

What I think — I love trying organic and natural skin care and was excited to try a new skin care regimen. The line has a fresh citrus scent that I really like. All of the products are very creamy and thick, but do not leave my skin feeling greasy at all. I have only been using these products for about a week, but I do like how they quench my skin and help with the tone and texture of my skin. I will keep using them to see if they help the fine lines around my eyes.

Available at Walmart and select natural products retailers, as well as at http://www.avalonpersosonalcare.com.

JĀSÖN Smoothing Coconut Body Wash ($15.75 30oz) — This ultra-moisturizing wash gently cleans with botanical cleansers and deeply nourishes with Coconut Oil and Shea Butter. Unrefined, virgin Coconut Oil is rich in nourishing Vitamin E and antioxidants, which soak the skin with intense, skin-healthy nutrients.

JĀSÖN Smoothing Coconut Hand & Body Lotion ($9.99 8oz) — This ultra-moisturizing daily lotion delivers deep, long-lasting hydration. An intensive blend of unrefined, virgin Coconut Oil and Shea Butter instantly relieves the discomfort of extremely dry skin and softens and smooths rough patches.

JĀSÖN Smoothing Coconut 100% Organic Oil ($10.99 15oz) — The perfect, all-purpose moisturizer. Rich in nourishing Vitamin E and antioxidants, this melts-at-first-touch oil delivers unprecedented care to your skin and hair. Benefits include:

Nourishes extremely dry, chapped skin
Tames frizz and fly-aways
Helps minimize hair breakage and split ends
Smooths chapped lips
Softens nail cuticles
Soothes the drying effects from sun and wind

What I think: The coconut oil was surprising at first because it is hard, but melts into an oil. It is very moisturizing. The body wash makes an amazing shaving cream. And, I love keeping the hand and body lotion near to smooth on when my skin feels dry.

Available at natural food stores, Whole Foods Market and on the web at Jason-personalcare.com.

Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion Coconut Rescue (14.99 32 oz) — This ultra-moisturizing lotion instantly delivers potent hydration and a hearty dose of antioxidants with a unique blend of unrefined Coconut Oil, Coconut Milk and Shea Butter. While Coconut Oil is all the craze in the beauty industry, this Alba lotion is unique, as it uses only unrefined, virgin coconut oil that is cold pressed from fresh coconut meat without the use of damaging heat or potentially irritating chemicals. This process allows it to maintain more skin nourishing phytochemicals, vitamins and antioxidants that provide immediate relief to even the driest skin.

What I think: Coconut oil is such a popular ingredient these days! This is fantastic on skin right after the shower or bath. It locks in the moisture and leaves my skin so soft! It’s also a great price for the amount that you get.

Available at Whole Foods Market, Target, natural food stores, grocery stores, and on the web a http://www.albabotanica.com.

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