Saturday, July 31, 2021

The Beauty Spotlight Team's End of July Weekly Roundup

I love to game-up my summer sipping with lighter in alcohol, healthier options. Read more about The Culinary Cures favorite summer sips that dial down the sugar and dial up the flavor. 

One of this summer’s trends is chain jewelry. Chains can be light and minimal on hot days, they can be layered, they can give edge to an outfit and they go with everything. Angie at Your True Self Blog explores how simple chains add instant flair to your outfits.

After her beautiful soaps melted away in the shower and made a mess on the sink, Allison from Never Say Die Beauty swears by the game-changing SoapStandle. You gotta check out this efficacious, affordable, clever, and low profile device! 

Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog recently discovered the MERIT Brush No. 1 Tapered Blending Brush, and absolutely loves it. This brush buffs and blends liquid, cream and powder products to perfection, and its cruelty-free synthetic bristles are densely packed and incredibly soft. This is an affordable and effective brush that is truly covet-worthy!

The cosmetic world is loaded with wonderful serums but sometimes one stands out above the rest. For Cindy of Prime Beauty that one is The A Method Vitamin C Serum Antioxidant Gel 20%. Even in a short time she’s seen the difference that this serum can make in brightening her skin.

You spent all summer running around with the kids, but summer is almost over, and they’ll be back to school. This means you can finally get some alone time! It’s time to spoil yourself with Barbie’s Beauty Bits' pampering beauty tips for moms. 

Friday, July 30, 2021

July 2021 Empties Galore!

Press Sample & Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I am a little surprised that I was able to finish up so many largely used up products in July, and I am so satisfied knowing that I was able to recycle so many bottles and jars. I thoroughly enjoyed using each and every product, and feel satisfied knowing that they didn't turn before I had the chance to finish them. I used up products that I really liked a lot, rather than products that I found mediocre just to finish them, but since I have so many remaining products to use before I make any new purchases, it is unlikely that I will replace any of these items in the near future.
VENeffect Anti-Aging Intensive Moisturizer ($185.00 for 1.7 oz. from VENeffect): is an extremely hydrating, yet incredibly lightweight and fast absorbing facial cream. It has a silky-smooth ultra luxurious texture that is rich enough to impart high levels of moisture, but it is also non-comedogenic and works beautifully on my normal to combination skin without ever causing any breakouts. Purchase Again? I would definitely consider it, but I will not need to invest in another face cream for a very long time!

Herbivore Phoenix Facial Oil ($88.00 for 1.7 oz. from NordstromCredo BeautySephoraDermstore and Revolve): Formulated for mature and sensitive skin, this delectable lightweight and fast absorbing skin effortlessly melts into the skin and immediately hydrates, calms and nourishes  the skin. Skin feels indescribably soft, smooth, moisturized and pampered. It is a wonderful soothing and calming elixir for irritable and inflamed skin, and is a wonderful post-peel choice to help heal the skin. This antioxidant-rich formula, which uses Jojoba Oil as its carrier oil, offers deep moisture without any residual greasiness, but instead leaves the skin with a distinct luminous glow. After prolonged use, it softens the appearance of fine lines and helps to heal and repair damaged tissue. It has a lovely light rose aroma that is a treat to the senses. Purchase Again? I will definitely consider it, but I have lots of open face oils that I need to use before they go bad.

Tata Harper Beautifying Facial Oil (This seems to have been discontinued): This is a very lightweight and fast absorbing nourishing oil that leaves skin very soft, smooth, supple, luminous and hydrated. I apply it to slightly damp, freshly washed skin, and I often add another drop or two to my foundation for a dewy finish, and the benefits are immediately seen. It has a warm aroma from the essential oils blend, but I find that it fades soon upon absorption. Purchase Again if I could? I would, but it appears to have been discontinued.

Vichy Mineral 89 ($29.50 for 1.69 oz. from UltaAmazonDermstore and Walgreens): is described as a "new generation face moisturizer." It features 89% of Vichy's iconic Mineralizing Thermal Water that is further enhanced by Hyaluronic Acid to deeply boost hydration and fortify the skin. The consistency is that of a lightweight gel-like serum that sinks into the skin immediately leaving it hydrated with a luminous, ethereal glow. Dehydrated and dull skin gives way to comfortable, refreshed and moisturized skin without any greasy residue or stickiness. Furthermore, this fragrance-free moisturizer plumps fine lines, nourishes the skin and leaves skin soft, smooth and supple. It offers my normal/combination skin enough moisture and hydration during the warmer months that I can forgo a regular moisturizer altogether, and it pairs beautifully with my favorite serums and face oils, but during the rest of the year I layer it with richer moisturizers. Purchase Again? More than likely, but I have lots of open products to use first.
Rodin Olio Lusso Facial Cleansing Powder (This product is no longer avalable, and Estee Lauder has discontinued the brand): is a wonderful cleansing powder that effectively, and thoroughly, cleans the skin without ever stripping it. It is formulated so that one can customize their cleansing routine based upon the needs of the skin and personal preference. For instance, if one seeks an exfoliating cleanser, then simply add less water to preserve the granular texture which lends itself to efficient exfoliation. If, instead, one prefers a creamier consistency, then simply add more water and mix for a smooth texture. Once water is introduced, a lovely creamy lather, punctuated by the aroma of jasmine oil, soothes the skin and the senses. Skin is left silky smooth, thoroughly cleansed and lightly hydrated. Purchase again, if I could? I definitely would, and I am very sad that Linda Rodin's beautiful products have all been discontinued, and the brand is no longer.

Vasanti Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator ($34.00 for 4.23 oz. from Vasanti and Amazon): This is gentle, effective, non-stripping, and it has enough fine grit that it feels like an at-home microdermabrasion treatment. There is an abundance of fine, and uniform, exfoliating particles that do not leave my skin feeling irritated or scratched up. Instead, my skin is left incredibly soft, silky-smooth and luminous. The results are immediate, and after a single use this became one of my favorite exfoliants because of its efficacy. I should note that it has no discernible aroma, and therefore it should not bother people who avoid skincare products that are fragranced. Purchase Again? Probably not because it will be a long time before I need a new exfoliant. I did, however, love using this exfoliant!

Tatcha Camellia Cleansing Oil ($48.00 for 5 oz. from Tatcha, Sephora and Violet Grey): This cleansing oil is a true thing of beauty. The consistency is very light in weight, and is closer to the fluidity of water than one expects from an oil. It isn't too runny, but remains more fluid than viscous. In fact, I would suggest that for a cleansing oil it has the perfect consistency that lends itself to emulsifying beautifully.

It is a colorless (clear) oil that has a remarkably pleasant scent that resides somewhere between an herbal and a floral, but it is light and unassuming. The texture itself is sublime- it is a smooth silky elixir that feels simply amazing on the skin.

It is quite concentrated- you simply apply a small amount to your face, massage it in and then add water. Once water is introduced, and it begins to emulsify, the oil turns into a milky white magical potion. Not only is it unbelievably gentle on the skin, but it is likewise unbelievably effective at removing every single trace of makeup- including the most stubborn waterproof makeup. In order to remove every trace of makeup, I tend to use a Q-Tip to remove the last bits of makeup from my lash line, but I have not found it necessary to use an additional eye makeup remover. Purchase Again? I have at least 6 full-sized cleansing oils to use, and several deluxe samples of this to use first, but I would definitely repurchase this once I need another cleansing oil.

Lumene Sisu Defend & Replenish Antioxidant Mist ($14.99 for 3.4 oz. from Amazon): This refreshing and hydrating antioxidant mist can be used any time of the day when your skin needs a little boost, but it can also be used to set your makeup. I prefer to store it in the refrigerator when I use it during the warmer weather because it gives the skin such relief during the summer. It leaves skin hydrated, soft, smooth and luminous. It has a light fruity aroma, but it is very pleasant and it isn't long-lasting. Purchase Again? At some point when I don't have so many like-products, but this one was definitely a joy to use.
Derma E UPLIFT Skin Beneficial Mist ($18.95 for 1 oz. from Derma E): is a gorgeous blend of citrus tempered by chamomile and lavender, and the end result is a slightly spicy citrus that is as uplifting and invigorating as the name suggests! It awakens the senses and it smells utterly delectable. Purchase Again? Maybe when I finish up my back up bottle of Create.

Derma E CALM Skin Beneficial Mist ($18.95 for 1 oz. from Derma E): is a very relaxing and calming blend of  Lemon, Eucalyptus, Sage and Rosemary, and a single deep breath of this essence slows a busy mind, calms a tense body and leaves the spirit soothed. Purchase Again? I will definitely consider purchasing this one again once I finish my last bottle of Create.

Derma E CREATE Skin Beneficial Mist ($18.95-$18.99 for 1 oz. from Derma E): is a wonderfully refreshing and stimulating blend of Rosemary, Ginger, Spearmint– an inspiring amalgam of essential oils that are a pleasure to the senses. A touch of Cardamom, which helps promote focus and clarity, comes through in the base notes, and it adds a touch of spice to this beautiful blend. Purchase Again? I just opened a new bottle! 
Baylis & Harding Oud, Cedar & Amber Natural Hand Soap ($5.99 for 16.9 oz. from Target): is a rich, creamy and warm blend that is so luxe that it is hard to believe that it could be as affordable as it actually is. It is absolutely breathtakingly beautiful. Purchase Again? Without question! This is amazing hand soap from an extraordinary brand! A+

Spongellé Hand Defense Hand Wash Infused Buffer ($14.00 each or $56.00 for a 4-pack from Spongellé): This is a wonderful new addition to the Spongellé line, and this launch offers a perfect way to thoroughly wash hands during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, you won't mind how often that you need to wash your hands given that these soap infused sponges thoroughly clean and exfoliate, plus they get into every hard to reach spot. Additionally, they don't strip the skin, but instead they leave it hydrated, soft and smooth. The four available scents are delicious, and the creamy lather is incredibly satisfying to the touch. Spongellé suggests that each sponge offers 40+ washes, but I always find that I get more washes out of all of their products than they suggest. Purchase Again? I still have one left!

Spongellé Let's Celebrate Butterfly Holiday Gift Set ($20.00 for a set of 2 from Spongellé): I have such love for Spongellé Body Buffers, they are so easy and convenient to use, they are incredibly effective, and they smell delicious! You simply dampen the Spongellé Body Wash Infused Buffers with water to activate the lather to effortlessly clean and exfoliate the skin. Each gift set sponge is filled with enough body wash for a minimum of 5+ washes, but I am able to get closer to 10 washes per sponge. 

Once you have used up all of the body wash, the sponge itself is still quite intact, and therefore all you need to do is use it in conjunction with your favorite liquid or bar soaps. The hanging ribbon allows the buffer to dry out easily, but I recommend hanging it outside of the moist environment of the shower to avoid bacterial growth.

These sponges not only effectively remove dead skin cells, but they also leave the skin deliciously baby soft, smooth, supple and moisturized.  Body wash infused body buffers are such a treat to use, and the Spongellé Body Wash Infused Buffers really excel in their ability to clean and exfoliate the skin while delighting the senses with their delightful aromas. Purchase Again? I still have one left from this fantastic set!

Revitalash Thickening Shampoo ($36.00 for 8.5 oz. from Revitalash and Amazon): When I wash my hair with this shampoo, and after I massage it into my scalp and work it though the length of my hair, I allow it to sit for a few minutes to optimize its efficacy. When I rinse it out, I immediately note that my hair is clean, but not stripped. Purchase Again? I have lots of shampoo to use before buying any more.

Revitalash Thickening Conditioner ($37.00 for 8.5 oz. from Revitalash and Amazon): This wonderfully nourishing, and ultra-hydrating, conditioner leaves my scalp comfortable, my hair shiny and silky-smooth, and in conjunction with their shampoo there is decidedly less hair in the drain of my shower. My hair has more volume, it feels thicker and it is definitely more hydrated, manageable and healthy. Purchase Again? Not likely, simply because I have a ridiculous number of bottles of conditioner to use up first. However, this is really good conditioner, and I was sad when I finished the bottle!

Tom Ford Cheek Color in Frantic Pink ($67.00 from Nordstrom): Frantic Pink (discussed here and here) is a pinky peach shade with warm multicolor pearl, and it was my favorite go-to daily blush for a very long time. I think that the color and formula changed slightly, and it looks as though most places are sold out– therefore, I am not sure if they are out of stock or if something new is replacing it. I still have a couple of Tom Ford Cheek Color compacts left, in other colors, but I really did love this blush and used every last bit. Purchase Again? Probably not because I have lots of blushes to use, and I am gravitating toward other brands these days.This was one gorgeous blush!
Overall Assessment: There you have it! I am extremely happy that I was able to finish up this many products in July. I should say, however, that it is less impressive than it seems because they were all nearly empty to begin with. Nonetheless, I managed to finish them up and recycle or repurpose their containers. What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in July? Do tell!

Purchased and Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Thursday, July 29, 2021

MERIT Brush No. 1 Tapered Blending Brush Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

MERIT Brush No. 1 Tapered Blending Brush is a brush that I had neither seen in person, nor had I sought out reviews when I began contemplating its purchase. Instead, I noticed it on the Sephora website a while ago, and was drawn to the size and shape. This is the type of brush that I love to use a lot, and I thought that I would give it a try. I most certainly didn't need it, but I was able to earn triple points at Sephora, and therefore I had some incentive to purchase it.

MERIT Brush No. 1 Tapered Blending Brush is a densely packed brush with delightfully soft synthetic cruelty-free bristles that feel heavenly against the skin. The bristles are soft, but not so soft as to lack efficacy. It is perfect for applying and blending foundations, concealers, and any powder, liquid and cream products that you want to blend and buff for a seamless finish. The handle is lightweight, and yet well-balanced, and appears to be made of plastic. It is also quite compact, and it measures less than 4 1/2" long– therefore, it is small enough for traveling or keeping in your makeup bag for periodic touchups. 

According to MERIT,

A brush that blends your complexion products so well, you won't be able to tell where your skin and your makeup meet. Meet the next number-one tool in your kit. This high-performance foundation brush seamlessly blends The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Foundation and Concealer Stick (sold separately) into the skin, softly blurring imperfections for an almost-airbrushed, natural-looking finish. The densely packed, synthetic bristles work with any complexion formula to create a smooth, glowing look

Features:

- Densely packed bristles make blending easy

- Extra soft, vegan bristles are gentle on reactive skin

- This brush is vegan, cruelty-free, and comes in recyclable packaging.

Directions: Use this brush to apply and blend foundation and concealer. Use the brush to buff the product into your skin, using light pressure and moving in circles.
Note the densely packed bristles!
I have washed this brush multiple tims, and it still has not shed a single bristle.
This brush has a wide enough base that it stands up on its own, and it is less than 4 1/2" long.
Overall Assessment: I am very happy with my purchase, and have been getting lots and lots of use from this hardworking little blending brush!

$30.00 from MERIT and Sephora (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

Typology 7-Ingredient Micellar Water Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Typology 7-Ingredient Micellar Water is a fragrance-free, vegan and cruelty-free micellar water that is gentle enough for all skin types– even sensitive skin. I simply apply a small amount to a cotton ball or pad, and cleanse face until makeup and dirt disappears completely. The result: it leaves my face soft, clean and hydrated. Typology also asserts that you can add a small amount of 7-Ingredient Micellar Water to your hands to massage your face. I haven't yet tried this, but I do plan to since that sounds wonderful.

This beautiful French brand is cruelty-free, elegantly minimalist and they make extraordinary products that are a true pleasure to use. 
According to Typology,

Our micellar water's minimalist, fragrance-free formula is even suitable for sensitive skin.

Dermatologically tested | 96% naturally-derived | Made in France | Fragrance-free | Vegan | Cruelty-Free | Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin | 

Directions: Apply to a cotton pad and cleanse face until makeup disappears completely. You can also add a small amount of micellar water to your hands to massage face.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Poloxamer 184, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Cetrimonium Bromide, Sodium Hydroxide.

Ingredient Attributes:

1. Purified water: This serves as a natural solvent to mix together the other ingredients. It’s been purified to remove all traces of bacteria.

2. Glycerin: derived from rapeseed and sunflower, it moisturizes the superficial layers of the skin.

3. Poloxamer 184: a surfactant that removes makeup particles from the face.

4. Pentylene glycol: derived from cane sugar, it stabilises the formula and moisturizes the skin.

5. Citric acid: derived from corn, regulates the pH of the micellar water so as not to irritate the epidermis.

6. Sodium hydroxide: to avoid any risk of irritation or burns, a cosmetic product must have a pH close to that of the skin. This soda makes the micellar water less acidic and therefore better tolerated by the skin.

7. Cetrimonium bromide: a preservative that blocks the proliferation of bacteria in the water, thus preventing the risk of skin infections.

Overall Assessment: If you are looking for a wonderful micellar water, then I highly recommend this one! A+

$15.80 for 200ml. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Typology Tinted Serum Review

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

I have been gleefully testing out numerous products from Typology, and you really must try this first rate cruelty-free French brand. Typology Tinted Serum is a wonderful lightweight tinted serum that is filled with skincare ingredients that pamper and nourish the skin while providing light coverage and a gorgeous natural finish. If you love the no makeup look with a polished dewy finish that enhances, rather than conceals, your skin– then you will absolutely LOVE this tinted serum. This serum is enriched with vitamin C, plant-based squalane and aloe vera, and therefore it hydrates and nourishes the skin while leaving it beautifully radiant. It is suitable for all types of skin.

The Typology Tinted Serum comes in 6 shades, and they even help you pick your shade HERE. If your complexion is between shades, and you need to mix two, then Typology will give you 50% off on your second shade.

I have Type 2: Light which is recommended for light skin with pink or yellow undertones that tans gradually and is prone to sunburns. It blends away and disappears, and leaves my skin looking enhanced and radiant. I actually think that Type 1: Fair is a better match for my skin since it is decidedly cooler in tone, but I think that my perfect shade would be mixing Light and Fair.

According to Typology,

A silicon-free, non-clogging tinted serum for light coverage and a natural no-makeup finish. Formulated with vitamin C for radiance and squalane & aloe vera for deep, long-lasting hydration.

Each tinted serum can offer light coverage for a wide spectrum of skin tones. Our six shades were developed using the Fitzpatrick phototype scale which takes into account factors like skin tone and reactions to sun exposure.

A tinted serum may appear too light or too dark immediately upon application. Wait for it to dry fully to ensure that the shade matches your skin tone. Think of our six shades as a guide. The serum offers light coverage so each shade will in fact work for several different undertones.

Tips for Selecting the Proper Shade:

TYPE 1: Fair with cool undertones. This is for fair skin with freckles that doesn't tan and becomes red in the sun.

TYPE 2 (This is the shade that I have): Light. Recommended for light skin with pink or yellow undertones that tans gradually and is prone to sunburns.

TYPE 3: Medium. This shade is for medium-toned skin with warm or olive undertones, which tans easily but sometimes burns.

TYPE 4: Tan. For dark skin with predominantly bronze undertones that occasionally sunburns.

TYPE 5: Medium dark. This is for light brown skin that rarely gets sunburned and easily tans in the sun.

TYPE 6: Dark. The shade for dark brown skin with naturally cold undertones that rarely sunburns.

Directions: To apply your tinted serum, simply remove the dropper from the vial and press the bulb to withdraw air. Then dip it into the vial, still squeezing the bulb and fully release it to fill it up with the serum. Using a brush or fingers, apply 3 to 4 drops of tinted serum to the skin. Evenly cover the face and neck, starting from the center of your face and moving outwards to avoid any lines. In the evening, remove the tinted serum with our makeup removing oil or micellar water and reusable makeup removal pads.

Typology products are cruelty-free and free from Parabens, Phenoxyethanol, Paraffin Oil and Sulphates.
Overall Assessment: The more Typology products that I try, the deeper I fall in love with this chic brand.

$34.90 for 30ml / 1 fl.oz. from Typology (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Monday, July 26, 2021

SoapStandle Soap Stand and Handle is Just What You Didn't Know You Needed!

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

SoapStandle is a two-in-one, and perfectly ingenious, soap stand and handle that extends the life of your bar soap, prevents soaps from becoming a slimy mess in your soap dish, and makes soap very easy to grip. You simply press your bar soap (including bar shampoo) into the SoapStandle teeth, and the soap is elevated from the surface of the dish that allows it to dry because air circulates under the soap. This simple step will save up to 30% of your soap, and is perfect for use at home or while traveling. 
According to SoapStandle,

SoapStandle allows bar soap to ‘shed’ water and dry, so “goo” never develops. Avoiding the goo is important beyond that it’s messy. When goo develops soap deteriorates faster, and instead of cleaning it goes down the drain. In short, the SoapStandle helps you get more soap-bang for your buck.

It’s simple to use. Just press your soap bar down firmly onto SoapStandle’s rounded points — it attaches to, and stays with, the bar. Your soap will last longer and it won’t slip from your hand. When you’re ready, move your reusable SoapStandle to a new bar.

We’ve switched SoapStandle production from recyclable PolyC to 100% post-consumer recycled material (also referred to as PCR). PCR gives used plastic multiple lives so we rely less on new plastic and introduce no new plastic into the world. Yay for positive environmental impacts! This change is effective for the entire SoapStandle line, as well as any additional versions released in the coming months. Here's to growth, change, and all-around earthly goodness!

Features:

Easy to use, easy to hold! Dampen the bar just enough for the first few layers to become soft. Push the SoapStandle in until the tines are submerged. Circulating air dries soap out faster, meaning no goo, no sludge, no slurry. No mesh lift sponge to soak and wring out. A pretty decorative shell soapdish on the bathroom countertop next to the sink quickly become a sea of scum. Even a plastic caddy attached to the tile wall with suction cups won't stop your bathtub turning into a soupy mess.

The SoapStandle will save you up to 30% of your bar of soap just by raising it up off the porcelain, and up to 15% by keeping it off a lift pad. Throw out your natural wooden, bamboo, ceramic and stainless steel trays, inserts, dishes, holders, and drainers with holes. The SoapStandle will become the favorite soap accessory in the bath and kitchen. This slim saver puts money back in your pocket and cuts back on the elbow grease needed to keep enamelware sinks clean from squishy soap waste.

No more dropped soap! Even the biggest, broadest hands get an extra grip, so men can spend more time washing and less time hunting around in a slippery shower stall. It's the best assist for kids' hands to make tub time fun. This unbreakable modern option doesn't slide around as they splash about in the water like fish. No matter what kind of bar, large plain rectangular or small circular rosemary mint shaving bar, this is an essential drying dispenser alternative.

This travel-friendly draining miracle device packs away easily into any carry on bag. Even better, keeping the soap dry means you don't have to open a fresh bar every time. Just pack whatever you need and go! Hardy enough it won't break in your suitcase, and it doesn't need special storage or a niche protector to go on in the hotel. Just a bit of space on the counter edge, and this portable option will drain away the grey sludge you loathe.

Designed, patented, and manufactured in the USA, so you're supporting American workers with every purchase. Made from quality materials means it is reusable and will last you through countless bars of soap. This cool, contemporary design is better at drip drying your soap than minimalist gray metal or wood alternatives with rubber feet. You also avoid the slippery bulk of soap in a bottle, which isn't as great a saver as you'd think, and doesn't stop soft scum that sticks to a kitchen sink top.

Made from recyclable PolyC to 100% post-consumer recycled material.
Overall Assessment: What brilliant simplicity, and extraordinary efficacy! A+

$6.99 each and $12.99 for a 2-pack from SoapStandle and Amazon (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Saturday, July 24, 2021

The Beauty Spotlight Team Summer Week in Review

Erno Laszlo Phormula 3-9 Repair Cream is an ultra-luxe cream that is loaded with Niacinamide and Panthnol to keep skin deeply hydrated. It is soothing, healing and perfect post peel and exfoliation, and Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog can’t say enough good things about it! 

With the summers getting hotter, harem pants are a go-to item for Angie at Your True Self Blog. They are cool and comfortable, yet extremely versatile and usable all year round. Check out how to enjoy the ease of harem pants!

Fashion and beauty combine with the Hot Girls Pearls Chicklet Bracelet that Prime Beauty is crazy about. Just what you need for this summer weather. 

In the mood to try something new? Allison from Never Say Die Beauty shares her favorite beauty products from the first half of 2021! 

Did you know that the US government doesn’t require a surgeon to have training in the services they offer? If you are considering cosmetic procedures, then Barbie’s Beauty Bits shares how you can find the best reconstructive plastic surgeon to meet your needs and goals.

Friday, July 23, 2021

My Loulou Shampoo Bars

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

If you are looking to reduce waste, and your carbon footprint, then you may already have tried switching from liquid shampoos and conditioners to highly concentrated bars instead. If that is the case, or this is something that you are contemplating, then the My Loulou Shampoo Bars that I have been testing are worthy of your consideration. Furthermore, My Loulou is a cruelty-free company that makes their beautiful creations by hand, and they only use high quality natural ingredients.

According to My Loulou,

This mild and moisturizing shampoo keep your hair shiny and beautiful. Shampoo contains chamomile extract that has softening, moisturizing and skin- relaxing effect. Beauty vitamins (provitamin B5 or D-panthenol) increase hair elasticity. Cacao butter softens and moisturizes hair and head skin. One single 2 oz bar is Good for up to 80 washes.

Available for: normal hair, oily hair, dry hair, brittle hair, for children, for delicate hair, for men, and they also make a conditioner.

Features:

- Good for up to 80 washes

- Shampoo bars are great for travel

- Shampoo bars are space savers

- Shampoo bars offer a low carbon footprint!

- Does not contain: silicones, parabens, GMOs, or SLS.

- Shampoo bars are multi-purpose!

My Loulou Bath & Body Shampooing Bar for Dry Hair ($7.99 for 2 oz. from My Loulou): This bar is emollient and wonderfully moisturizing for dry hair and dry skin. It forms a satisfying lather, but it never strips the skin or hair. It is made with an ultra-rich blend of ingredients, and it leaves hair shiny and soft. It is very concentrated, and offers up to 80 washes (depending on the length and thickness of your hair). I should note that there is only a very faint aroma, bit it is pleasant and fades immediately.

My Loulou Bath & Body Shampoo Bar for Normal Hair ($7.99 for 2 oz. from My Loulou): This green bar is formulated for normal hair, and it forms a wonderfully satisfying lather, just like the bar for dry hair. I actually found it quite moisturizing for my hair and body, and it also is formulated to last up to 80 washes. It neither strips the hair, nor the skin, and it does not leave behind a greasy residue. This bar also has a very faint aroma, but it is pleasant and fades immediately. 

My Loulou Traveling Tin Can ($1.99 from My Loulou): This handy soap tin is great for travel, or as a soap dish in your shower. Made of aluminium.

Overall Assessment: If you are trying to save space, reduce your carbon footprint, and have fewer plastic bottles to recycle, then bar shampoos are worth trying. I am quite pleased with the My Loulou Shampoo Bars, and will definitely consider purchasing them once I finish the three that I have.

Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own (Unaffiliated Links). Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Thursday, July 22, 2021

Nordstrom Rack Sale: Up to 75% Off with an Extra 25% Off Clearance

(Affiliate Links)

Nordstrom Rack is having a huge Clearance Sale for a total of up to 75% Off. This includes an Extra 25% Off Clearance items. If you are looking to refresh your wardrobe, or shopping for back-to-school specials, then it is definitely worth checking out this huge sale.

*Offer is available online on clearance items only at nordstromrack.com until 11:59pm PT on July 25, 2021, and in Nordstrom Rack stores from July 22, 2021, to July 25, 2021 (hours may vary). Online prices as marked; in-store markdowns taken at register. Price adjustments cannot be made to prior purchases. Savings of up to 75% based on items’ original prices at retailers, which may have been reported to us by manufacturers.

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Erno Laszlo Phormula 3-9 Repair Balm Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

Erno Laszlo Phormula 3-9 Repair Balm is a great product to use when you have irritated skin. If you have a break out, a sunburn, or red and irritated skin that requires something gentle, nourishing and healing, then this mighty balm really helps. It makes this a perfect choice post-peel and post-exfoliation for that very reason. I recently had a bad allergic reaction to a product that I was testing, and it left an irritated patch of skin on my face that was dry, red and peeling, and nothing seemed to help it heal. 

Thankfully, I already had this balm, and while I had little hope that it would help, I decided to try it anyway. Much to my surprise the flaking, peeling, itching, redness and irritation went away after a couple of days of use. It is very concentrated, and only requires a tiny, tiny bit. It is very easy to overdo it and use far more balm than necessary, and therefore I start out with very little and add more as needed. Not only is it calming, but it is also incredibly hydrating and it leaves the skin very soft, smooth and supple. It is definitely a luxury product with a luxury price tag, but it is so concentrated that it will last a very long time. It contains no fragrance, Phthalates, Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Urea, or colorants. 

According to Erno Laszlo,

A nourishing, soothing balm to rescue sunburned, irritated or scar-prone skin and minor nicks and wounds or blemishes on the mend.

A nourishing blend of botanical oils, plant and marine bio-actives creates a protective healing barrier at the surface as it absorbs deeply to heal damage and hydrate skin. As moisture and oxygen levels are increased, cell renewal and repair are stimulated thanks to a cushioning mix of complexion-smoothing ingredients. Tamanu oil, a traditional Indonesian therapy for skin, speeds healing while soothing inflammation and irritation; dromiceius oil, also prized in ancient healing traditions, deeply replenishes moisture while stimulating cell renewal; and marine extracts (called glycosaminoglycans) help skin retain vital moisture via their powerful water-attracting abilities, leaving your complexion smoother, suppler and more youthful.

Directions: Use after toning and serums or following your moisturizer. Dab on skin and massage into face and neck. Can also be used on other troubled areas of skin throughout the body. Formulated for all skin types.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua/Eau), Petrolatum, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dromiceius Oil (Emu Oil), Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Sorbitol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cera Microcristallina (Microcrystalline Wax/Cire Microcristalline), Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, PEG-40 Castor Oil, Polysorbate 60, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Taraktogenos Kurzii Seed Oil, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Brassica Campestris/Aleurites Fordi Oil Copolymer, Calophyllum Tacamahaca Seed Oil, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Allantoin, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Glycosaminoglycans, Saccharomyces Lysate Extract. Formulated without: Phthalates, Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Urea, Colorants and Fragrance.
Overall Assessment: If you have irritated skin, or want an effective balm for the times that you do, then this is a wonderful choice. I sometimes use it at night because it does such an effective job of hydrating and soothing my skin, and I definitely see a big difference when I wake up the following day. It really is remarkable post-peel and post exfoliation, as well!

$280.00 for: 50mL / 1.7 fl.oz. from Erno Laszlo and Nordstrom (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2021 www.lolassecretbeautybog.com All Rights Reserved.

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