Holiday Gift Guides 2015: Last Minute Beauty Gifts

Are you still wondering what to get that awesome lady in your life?  Well, I don’t mean to be a brat, but you’re running out of time!

Below are some wonderful beauty gift ideas.  Some you can find in stores, but if you want to order online, I think deadlines are coming up!

Caswell-Massey Sandalwood Foaming Bath Gel ($20 USD) — This invigorating Sandalwood bath gel will foam into an opulent lather. It is mild enough for everyday use. Splendid in the bath, equally marvelous as a body cleanser in the shower.

Caswell-Massey Sandalwood Body Lotion ($22 USD) — This luxuriously nourishing Sandalwood body lotion will leave your skin velvety-smooth. Its exceptional scent makes moisturizing a gratifying experience.

When I saw these I though Sandalwood?  Too spicy!  But these smell amazing!  And they would be nice to have in a his and hers bathroom as the shower gel would work for men or ladies!

Purchase at http://www.caswellmassey.com

Japonesque Pixelated Color Kit $28) preps skin with the Radiance Primer, illuminates skin with Liquid Light, and perfects with the Pixelated Color Finishing Powder for a glowing complexion all night long.

 The Japonesque Pixelated Color Eye Defining Pencil Set ($23) in 4 new bold shades, the color pencils combine an exquisite gliding texture with saturated prismatic color to create a stunning multitude of looks.

Both of these kits are perfect for the beauty junkie that you’re not sure what to give. The first is an amazing highlighting set, perfect for holiday photos.  The second are gorgeous eyeliners in a black, gray, blue and plum.  No brown?  That’s fine with me, I have a TON of brown eyeliners!

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

XSense Deluxe Sample Pack
XSense Deluxe Sample Pack

XSense Deluxe Sample Pack ($14 USD) — A perfect way to try each scent in your own day. The deluxe sample pack has 2 doses of each scent to help you at work, play and rest. It’s a perfect introduction to the power of natural, scientifically backed ingredients. You get a sample of each of these containing ingredients which could help significantly:

WorkSense—helping learning, retention, memory, and accuracy;
PlaySense—helping speed and endurance;
RestSense—helping reduce stress and improve relaxation.

  • Made with a proprietary mix of natural and pure ingredients
  • Results may vary
  • Carefully formulated, with special versions for men and women
  • Not a drug, not habit forming
  • 100% Money back guarantee
  • FREE Ground shipping on all domestic orders

This all kinds of smell the same to me, very strong and herbal.  I am not sure how they work, but they do wake me up and are a neat idea for the lady who likes aromatherapy.

Purchase at xsenseworld.com

Key West Aloe Tropical Escapes Key Lime Essentials
Key West Aloe Tropical Escapes Key Lime Essentials

Key West Aloe Tropical Escapes Key Lime Essentials ($55 USD) Feel refreshed from head to toe with Key Lime hair and skin products – complete with travel bag.

Set includes:

Key Lime Shampoo, 8 oz.

Key Lime Conditioner, 8 oz.

Key Lime Bath & Shower Gel, 8 oz.

Key Lime Lotion, 6 oz.

I haven’t tried this scent, but it sounds amazing!  I have been using a lot of winter scents lately and this sounds refreshing.  I have tried Key West Aloe and really enjoy it.

Available at  www.keywestaloe.com

Too Faced Le Petite Maison
Too Faced Le Petite Maison

Too Faced Le Petite Maison ($39 USD) —  exclusive to Ulta Beauty this holiday season and gives you everything you need to embrace elegant beauty. The kit features 12 soft, blendable eye shadows, and Deluxe Better Than Sex Mascara for party-perfect eyes housed in a cozy French apartment.

I haven’t tried this yet, but I love Too Faced.  Their eye shadows are amazing!  I think this would be an amazing give for your makeup obsessed friend!

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

New Skincare: Get Your Skin Ready For The Cold November Air!

The cooler weather ahead means drier skin.  And I have begun to feel those effects.  My face, especially, is getting drier and is crying out for hydration!

Below are new products that I have been sent for my honest review.  I have incorporated them into my skincare routine to bring much-needed moisture:

 

Mineral Fusion Skin-Balancing Facial Moisturizer
Mineral Fusion Skin-Balancing Facial Moisturizer

Mineral Fusion Skin-Balancing Facial Moisturizer ($22.99 USD) — Lightweight Rosehip Oil and nutrient-replenishing Mineral Water provide ideal hydration for normal skin types. Natural antioxidants, revitalizing iron, and our wrinkle fighting, clinically tested, collagen-boosting peptide help firm and restore skin for a more youthful appearance. Provides perfectly balanced hydration for softer, smoother skin that’s ideal for flawless makeup application. Gluten Free, 100% Vegan, Paraben Free, Cruelty Free, Artificial Color Free, Phthalate Free and Hypo-allergenic.

What I think: I love this as my day cream. It sinks right into my skin, smoothing it out and getting it ready for my makeup.  I also like that it tones down my redness, which is something that has happened as I age. I also love the natural ingredients.  It is nice to know that the products that I am using on my face are safe.

Available at Whole Foods Markets nationwide, as well as other fine health food stores and MineralFusion.com

Kalologie Envison Eye Cream
Kalologie Envison Eye Cream

Kalologie Envison Eye Cream ($90 USD) — Envision addresses the full range of eye area concerns. Haloxyl dissipates dark circles, while caffeine treats puffiness. Peptides, antioxidants and hydrators and smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, preserving the delicate eye area.

What I think: I have been using this eye cream for about a week now, day and night.  I am enjoying how it instantly hydrates the eye area.  That of course makes the fine lines less noticeable.  My dark circles do look a little less obvious, but I will keep using it longer hoping to see even more changes.

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

Key West Aloe Optimal Results
Key West Aloe Optimal Results

Key West Aloe Optimal Results ($48 USD) — Restore moisture and improve skin texture with our super-hydrating formula Optimal Results, an intensive fine line cream made with 60% Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid.

  • Diminishes Fine Lines and Wrinkles
  • Restores Depleted Hydration and Moisture
  • Improves Skin Texture

What I think: I have been using this as my night cream.  It is soothing as well as hydrating, thanks to the aloe vera.  It does not leave my skin greasy, which is a plus!  The scent is a bit medicinal, but that is fine for a night cream. In the morning, my skin is moisturized and very smooth!

Available at http://www.keywestaloe.com

Burt’s Bees Mint Cocoa Moisturizing Lip Balm
Burt’s Bees Mint Cocoa Moisturizing Lip Balm

Burt’s Bees Mint Cocoa Moisturizing Lip Balm ($3.30 USD) — Nothing warms the heart like a steaming mug of hot cocoa. That’s why our lips fell in love with the rich cocoa flavor and kiss of mint that this moisturizing lip balm serves up. For a limited time only!

• Hydrates and moisturizes dry lips, leaving them soft and smooth
• 100% natural
• Softens with Coconut Oil and Shea Butter
• A delicious touch of Cocoa Fruit Powder

What I think: I like to have multiple Burt’s Bees lip balms around at all times, they are one of my favorites!  I have been keeping the Mint Cocoa one at my desk to keep my lips hydrated while I work and blog. It is really yummy, it tastes like fresh mint and rich chocolate.  Plus, it keeps my lips soft and hydrated.  And, it is extremely affordable!
Learn more and purchase at http://www.burtsbees.com
Have you been changing up your skincare lately?  Let me know what you have been using, I might test it out!

 

Try New Natural Bath And Body Products

Natural products are everywhere these days, and I think it’s wonderful!  The fact that there are products that work so well and are organic and natural is as good for the environment as it is for us!

Below are three new (to me) brands that feel and smell amazing!  What are your favorite natural products.  Leave a comment and let me know.  Maybe I’ll try them next!

Aloethera Intensive Body Moisturizer
Key West Aloe Aloethera Intensive Body Moisturizer

Key West Aloe Aloethera Intensive Body Moisturizer ($27 for 16oz) — Rich and creamy, natural shea and cocoa butters give lasting moisture and hydration. Infused with sunflower, avocado, and coconut oils to replenish thirsty skin.

What I think: This is a fantastic smelling moisturizer that heals and moisturizes dry skin.  It is intensive, but it sinks right into the skin and isn’t heavy or greasy.  It is perfect for heals, elbows and other very dry areas of your body.

Available at www.keywestaloe.com.

L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Exfoliating Shower Gel
L’Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Exfoliating Shower Gel

L’Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Exfoliating Shower Gel ($20 USD 8.4 fl. oz.) — This exfoliating shower gel, made with purifying essential oils, helps to revive the skin. Its scent is 100% natural.  Discover the rebalancing ritual to awaken your senses and bring well-being and harmony to body and mind.

What I think:  This is a very aromatic shower gel, very herbal.  It’s really nice for exfoliating dry skin or getting skin ready for self-tanning.  It is important to exfoliate at least once a week.  This is a refreshing and natural way to do so.

Purchase at usa.loccitane.com

Purity of Elements Hydrating Body Wash ($22, 6.8 fl. oz) — Gently cleanses, hydrates and moisturizes skin leaving it feeling clean, soft and supple. Performance ingredients include; Vitamin E Oil to help to protect and repair while Jojoba Oil and Safflower Seed Oil nourish and condition skin

Purity of Elements Nourishing Hand Cream ($15, 3 fl. oz.) — Provides instant soothing comfort and ultra hydration leaving hands feeling delicately scented and silky soft. Performance ingredients; Aloe Vera to soothe, Vitamin E Oil to protect and repair and Licorice Root Extract to brighten and help reduce appearance of dark spots.

Purity of Elements Restorative Body Lotion ($25, 6.8 fl. oz) — Works to hydrate and nourish leaving skin feeling silky soft and smooth
Performance ingredients include: Aloe Vera to soothe, Monoi and Jojoba Oils drench skin with moisture and re-balance skin.

What I think: The scent of these products is called Santa Fe Sun, Ginger Lime and Sunflower.  It smells delicious — fruity and bright!  It is so good.  The body wash is very creamy and hydrating.  I follow it up with the body lotion which is moisturizing without being greasy. And the hand cream is light and perfect to carry in my purse.  Plus it is so good for the skin!

Purchase at http://www.qvc.com

miniOrganics Enriched Moisturizer ($49 USD) — This luxurious moisturizer is essential for nourishing, conditioning and supporting the skin during pregnancy, leaving it wonderfully hydrated, incredibly soft and supple. A perfect blend of the finest certified organic butters and anti-oxidant rich oils infused with miniOrganic’s unique blend of essential oils, all chosen for their regenerative, healing and restorative properties to help promote elasticity, keep pregnant skin soft and supple and assist in the reduction in the appearance of stretch marks.

miniOrganics Nourishing Body Oil ($49 USD) — A unique blend of Certified Organic, antioxidant-rich camellia tea, avocado, jojoba and rosehip oils combined with an infusion of safe essential oils, all known for their soothing, rejuvenating and restorative properties. This oil promotes elasticity and keeps pregnant skin soft and supple. It may also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

miniOrganics Infant Moisturizer ($26 USD) — The perfect all-purpose, all-natural, gentle moisturizer that helps soothe, hydrate and protect delicate young skin. A super-light, non-greasy formulation, rich in certified organic oils and infused with soothing organic lavender and calming chamomile makes it ideal for babies, young children and anyone with sensitive skin.

What I think:  This organic body care line has products that are perfect for mom and baby. My babies are older now, but I think this line is for women of all ages.  The oil smells amazing and is so hydrating.  The moisturizers are both very gentle and softly scented.  I love that since it is a brand that makes products safe for babies, I’m confident on how good it is for my skin.

Available online via www.miniorganics.com