Klorane Nourishing Dry Hair Oil with Mango Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Klorane Nourishing Dry Hair Oil with Mango is a bi-phase oil, from the Klorane Mango Hair Collection, that is absolute perfection for people with dry hair. I simply shake it vigorously to incorporate all of the ingredients, and then I spritz it into my freshly washed and towel-dried hair, or my dry hair. It is lightweight, delectably scented and it leaves my hair soft, manageable, hydrated, frizz-free and shiny. Additionally, it neither weighs hair down, nor does it leave behind a greasy residue. It is absolutely heavenly and so effective for my curly dry hair.

According to Klorane,

This lightweight, bi-phase oil provides instant and lasting nourishment and hydration without weighing hair down. The plant-based spray fortifies hair with a finishing seal that locks-in moisture for hair that's soft and radiant. Perfect for those who have naturally dry, dehydrated hair, have split ends or hair that needs extra nourishment and hydration. Gentle enough for all hair types and ages 3+. Safe for color-treated hair.

Features:

• Provides instant and long-lasting nourishment.
• Daily treatment protects hair against dryness, harmful effects of the sun and external stresses.
• Hair is soft to the touch with moisture locked-in.
• Adds radiance, shine and hydration for easier detangling and styling.
• Lightweight bi-phase spray does not weigh hair down.
• 97% natural origin ingredients.
• Vegan. Dermatologist tested.
• 100% recycled and recyclable bottle.

Directions: Shake well. Apply to towel dried or dry hair spraying evenly 8 inches away from hair or 3-4 sprays into the palm of your hand and apply to hair lengths and ends.

Select Ingredients and Their Attributes:

• MANGO: Nourishes the hair.
• AQUEOUS PHASE: Holds concentrated mango extract for in-depth nourishment.
• PLANT-OIL PHASE: Adds a boost of extra moisture.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua)*. Coco-Caprylate/Caprate*. Ethylhexyl Palmitate*. Pongamia Glabra Seed Oil*. C9-12 Alkane*. Pentylene Glycol*. Sodium Chloride*. Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter (Mangifera Indica Seed Butter)*. Fragrance (Parfum). Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil)*. Lactic Acid*. Sodium Benzoate. Tocopherol *natural origin ingredients. Free of: Sulfates, Parabens, Alcohol.

Overall Assessment: I am obsessed with Klorane's Mango Collection, and this is one of my favorite products! A+

$18.00 for 3.3 oz. from Klorane, Ulta and Macy's (Affiliate Links). Press Sample, All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautybog.com All Rights Reserved.

BEAUTY PRODUCT EMPTIES FOR MARCH 2022

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It's hard to believe that March 2022 has already come and gone, but now it is springtime! I didn't use as many skincare products as I thought that I might, but I still manages to work my way through the remainder of 9 full-size products. Here is what I finished up in March: 

Potager Soap Co. Natural Secret Garden Soap ($8.98 for 4.5 oz. from Potager Soap Co.): Secret Garden is a wonderful amalgam of lavender, patchouli, geranium and rose petals. The notable pungency of the patchouli is tempered by the rose, geranium and lavender and the result is a warm, rich and creamy aroma that is an utter delight to the senses. The rich lather rinses clean, but never strips the skin. Purchase Again? YES! I already started using another soap from this wonderful company!

Baylis & Harding Rose & Geranium Natural Hand Wash ($5.99 each for 16.9 oz. from Target): is the perfect pick if you love the aroma of freshly cut roses with a slight twist of geranium. Their hand soaps are affordable and sustainable luxury washes that are a joy to use and they smell utterly delectable. Furthermore, they leave your hands soft and moisturized, rather than dry and stripped. Purchase Again? YES! I already opened another bottle!

AHAVA Mineral Botanic Velvet Cream Wash in Lotus & Chestnut: This body wash gently cleanses the skin without stopping it, or leaving it taut. It soothes and moisturizes the skin with macadamia oil, organic plant extracts and Dead Sea Minerals– leaving skin silky smooth. It has a delicious nutty, fruity aroma that I find intoxicatingly good! Purchase Again? I would, but they appear to have discontinued this scent!

African Botanics Marula Botanical Hand Cream ($55.00 for 2 oz. from African Botanics, Net-A-Porter, Bluemercury and Revolve): The ultra-emollient luxury oil-infused cream boasts a refreshingly creamy lightweight texture that sinks into the skin immediately and doesn't leave hands in the least bit greasy. If you adhere to the belief that one needs to use thick and greasy hand creams in order to stave-off and heal dry and chapped hands, then you will be astonished by the efficacy of this ingenious hand cream. In fact, I think that it is more accurate to classify Marula Botanical Hand Cream as a cutting-edge antioxidant-rich anti-aging serum/cream hybrid that protects, nourishes, hydrates, soothes, brightens and repairs the skin with great efficacy.

Not only are my hands soft, supple and ultra moisturized, but they are left with the type of pronounced luminosity that I have only ever experienced in luxurious serums and beauty oils for the face. The delectable warm and earthy scent heightens the sensory experience of using this luxe hand cream, but it does fade soon upon application, and therefore won't pose a problem for those among you who prefer scent-free products.

It is noteworthy that the formula is very concentrated, and the effects are very long-lasting– therefore a single tube goes a very very long way.  If you treat yourself to one new body product this season, then African Botanics Marula Botanical Hand Cream should be at the top of your list. I kid you not, this hand cream is that extraordinary. Purchase Again? YES! This is a truly amazing hand cream!

Shu Uemura Art of Hair Murato Volume Hydro-Texturing Mist ($42.00 for 3.3 oz. from Shu Uemura Art of Hair and Sephora): This texturizing spray adds volume to hair, and is perfect for making beachy waves. It has the same light aroma as the other products from this collection, but the scent dissipates very quickly. Purchase Again? DEFINITELY! I already miss it!

Briogeo Don't Despair Repair Deep Conditioning Mask ($38.00 for 8.2 oz. from Space NK, Sephora and Nordstrom): That I have naturally curly hair means that I must deeply condition it, and I must do so frequently. I need a deep conditioner that really hydrates my hair, but doesn't weigh it down, and that tames frizz and fly-aways. This mask is cruelty-free, as is Briogeo in general, and it contains 98% natural ingredients. There are no silicones to weigh down my hair, and it does not contain parabens, phthalates or artificial dyes. Additionally, it is safe for color treated and otherwise chemically processed hair. It deeply nourishes and hydrates my hair, gives it a glossy shine and leaves it unbelievably soft and manageable. Furthermore, it effectively detangles hair, and banishes frizz and flyaways. The rich and thick mask is concentrated, therefore you don't have to use a lot, and it has a delectable non-lingering aroma. I generally leave it on for about 10 minutes, but when I really want to take it to the next level I leave it on for 30-45 minutes. Purchase Again? It's at the top of my list once I finish a few more of my open hair masks. 

LOVINAH Copper Peptide & EGF Pro-Aging Collagen Ampoules with Sea Kelp Bioferment ($125.00 for 4 x 5ml ampoules from LOVINAH, and Macy's): This is a "watery, supercharged serum with Copper Peptides and vegan Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF). Copper peptides are potent skin regeneration actives that improve the appearance of skin, helping to increase skin thickness & reducing the appearance of wrinkles. EGF has a multitude of benefits including the acceleration of skin healing, skin renewal & the slowing down of the thinning of skin. It helps to boost collagen & elastin in the skin." Note: This serum is like a booster serum and doesn't contain any lipid components. You can either layer under another water-based serum (and then oil on top) or directly under an oil. You can also add it like a booster to your moisturizer or serums (that do not contain acids) The only restriction is that it cannot be layered with vitamin C - L-Ascorbic acid, or added to any serum with vitamin C (oil soluble vitamin C esters are ok). Purchase Again? At some point, definitely.

May Lindstrom The Blue Cocoon Solid Oil Facial Concentrate ($180.00 for 1.69 oz. from goop): Aptly named, one immediately wants to be completely enveloped by this wondrous melting balm. While this balm evokes the color of the Adriatic Sea, this glistening gem melts into an irresistible oil serum upon being greeted by the warmth of the skin. This delectable anti-inflammatory multipurpose balm deeply nourished and hydrates the skin, eradicates redness and skin irritations and makes skin soft, supple, balanced, healed and luminous. 

I cannot sufficiently underscore the extent to which this is a truly special skincare treat. This magical balm is unlike anything else that I have tried, and not only does it nourish and treat the skin, but it also creates the most heavenly sensory experience. I begin by slowly and deeply inhaling its aroma directly from the jar, and then I remove a tiny amount from the jar and warm it between my fingers before massaging it into my freshly cleansed and damp face, neck and décolleté. The botanical aroma is a warm and earthy amalgam of its ingredients from which slight traces of Vanilla Planifolia and Lavender emerge. The scent essentially defies a lucid description because it has an otherworldly aroma, and is unlike anything else that I have experienced. 

Once this balm, which boasts the efficacy of the finest serums and beauty oils, sinks into the skin one immediately notices that their skin becomes ultra-hydrated, soft, supple and nourished. Furthermore, this ultra-luxe balm immediately calms sensitive skin that is reactive and easily irritated. It soothes and treats inflammation of all sorts, and is a wonderful choice for rosacea, eczema and acne-prone skin. The Blue Cocoon Beauty Balm Concentrate is also a great post-treatment, post-peel and post exfoliation product choice since its potent anti-inflammatory ingredients boast an efficacy that is seldom found in a single product. 

This potent, antioxidant-rich balm is also the perfect choice if you seek ultra-effective anti-aging skincare products that are healthy and effective. It should also be mentioned that this multipurpose healing and nourishing balm can be used to spot treat irritated skin, and that it works extraordinarily well as an eye cream and lip balm.  Additionally, if you have dry skin, or dry patches you will be astonished by the speed with which these conditions will be reversed. The Blue Cocoon Beauty Balm Concentrate activates the senses, elevates the mood and transforms the skin. It is, indeed, a magical unicorn that is filled with healthy, potent actives that together perform miracles for the skin and the spirit. Purchase Again? It's on my list!

Spongellé Botanics Candle in Rose ($38.00 for 8 oz. from Spongellé): I love aromatic rose fragrances, and this one is particularly special. The Turkish Rose comes through in all of its glory, but the bottom notes add a creamy woodsy aroma and the top citrus note adds a touch of zing. It is one of my all-time favorite permutations of the perfected rose. Features: 100% Soy Wax | Hand-poured in the US | Special flickering wooden wick | Burns up to 50 hours | Purchase Again? I still have three of their candles left to use first, but this is definitely worth buying! Plus the rose aroma is utter perfection!

Overall Assessment: I should be finishing up a few more skincare products next month since I have nearly finished up a few more things this month, but we will see! What did you use up, toss out, give away or return in March? Do you have any duds or winners to report?

Press Samples (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Sephora Spring Savings Event April 1-11: 20% Off Rouge, 15% Off VIB, 10% Off Insiders

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Sephora Spring Savings Event Details (4/1 - 4/11)

Visit: www.sephora.com

• Rouge (4/1 - 4/11)
  • Sephora Rouge Members, The Spring Savings Event is here!
  • You have FIRST ACCESS to shop, with 20% off your favorite Sephora products. Shop NOW before anyone else through 4/4!
  • Rouge Members can use their 20% discount as many times as they want from 4/1-4/11. In store and online.
    • Use code SAVESPRING to redeem online
    • Also! 30% of All Sephora Collection through 4/11.

• Disclaimer: Discount is available for multi-use online and multi-use in-stores. Discount does not apply to taxes, shipping, or other fees. Some limitations apply. See store for details. Available in the US and CA.
• Additional disclaimer included where SC offer is featured. *Exclusions/terms apply. Beauty Insider only except at Sephora at Kohl’s or on kohls.com.

• VIB (4/5 - 4/11)
  • Sephora VIB Members, The Spring Savings Event is here!
  • VIB members can use their 15% discount as many times as they want from 4/5 – 4/11 In store and online.
    • Use code SAVESPRING to redeem online
    • Also! 30% of All Sephora Collection starting from 4/1- 4/11
  • Disclaimer: Discount is available for multi-use online and multi-use in-stores. Discount does not apply to taxes, shipping, or other fees. Some limitations apply. See store for details. Available in the US and CA.
  • Additional disclaimer included where SC offer is featured. *Exclusions/terms apply. Beauty Insider only except at Sephora at Kohl’s or on kohls.com.

• Insiders/All Tiers (4/7 - 4/11)
• Sephora Beauty Insiders, The Spring Savings Event is here!
• Insiders can use their 10% discount as many times as they want from 4/7-4/11. In store and online.
  • Use code SAVESPRING to redeem online
  • Also! 30% of All Sephora Collection starting from 4/1 - 4/11
• Disclaimer: Discount is available for multi-use online and multi-use in-stores. Discount does not apply to taxes, shipping, or other fees. Some limitations apply. See store for details. Available in the US and CA.
• Additional disclaimer included where SC offer is featured. *Exclusions/terms apply. Beauty Insider only except at Sephora at Kohl’s or on kohls.com

Klorane Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner with Mango Butter

 

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If you have naturally dry hair, or hair that is dry because of chemical treatments and heat styling tools, then the Klorane Nourishing Mango Hair Collection is made with you in mind. I have naturally curly hair, and therefore I am no stranger to hair that tends to be on the dry side, and thus this collection is perfect for me. The Klorane Nourishing Shampoo with Mango Butter and Klorane Nourishing Conditioner with Mango Butter are perfect for dry hair, and not only are they very effective, but the delectable mango aroma is uplifting and utterly delightful.

Klorane Nourishing Shampoo with Mango Butter ($10.00-$12.00 for 3.3 oz.-13.5oz from Klorane, bluemercury, Ulta and Macy's): This is a very rich lathering shampoo that nourishes and hydrates dry hair, and it thoroughly cleans the without ever stripping. It rinses clean without weighing hair down or leaving behind an undesirable residue. This is currently my very favorite shampoo.

According to Klorane,

A moisture-rich, plant-based shampoo that gently cleanses, nourishes and restores lasting hydration to dry, dehydrated hair. Hair becomes soft, silky and full of shine. Perfect for those who have naturally dry, dehydrated hair, have split ends or hair that needs extra nourishment and hydration. Gentle enough for all hair types and ages 3+. Safe for color-treated hair.

Features:

• Nourishes hair without weighing it down
• Restores lasting hydration and moisture to hair
• Helps protect against breakage
• Hair is easier to manage, soft and radiant
• 86% natural origin ingredients
• Biodegradable. Vegan. Dermatologist tested
• 100% recycled and recyclable bottle

Ingredients: Water (Aqua)*. Decyl Glucoside*. Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate. Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate. Glycerin*. Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate. Acrylates Copolymer. Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter (Mangifera Indica Seed Butter)*. Tocopherol. Caprylyl Glycol. Ceteareth-60 Myristyl Glycol. Citric Acid*. Coco-Glucoside*. Coconut Acid*. Fragrance (Parfum). Glyceryl Oleate*. Glycol Stearate*. Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate*. Laureth-3. Maleic Acid. Polyquaternium-22. Sodium Benzoate. Sodium Chloride. Sodium Hydroxide*. Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate. Yellow 5 (Ci 19140). Yellow 6 (Ci 15985) *natural origin ingredients. Free of: Sulfates, Parabens, Silicones, Mineral Oils, Essential Oils.

Klorane Nourishing Conditioner with Mango Butter ($10.00-$20.00 for 1.6 oz.-6.7 oz from Klorane, bluemercury, Ulta and Macy's): This is a very nourishing and hydrating conditioner that is extraordinarily effective for dry hair. It leaves dehydrated locks soft, smooth and shiny without weighing it down or leaving it greasy. The delectable mango aroma lasts for a while before it fades away.

According to Klorane,

Nourish hair naturally. This plant-based weightless moisturizing conditioner restores much needed hydration and softness back to dry, dehydrated hair. Hair is left feeling silky, smooth and full of shine. Perfect for those who have naturally dry, dehydrated hair, have split ends or hair that needs extra nourishment and hydration. Gentle enough for all hair types and ages 3+. Safe for color-treated hair.

Features:

• Provides instant and long-lasting nourishment and hydration to hair
• Hair's ability to lock-in moisture is strengthened
• Can be used as a cleansing conditioner for very dry hair
• Hair is easier to manage, soft and radiant
• 96% natural origin ingredients
• Biodegradable. Vegan. Dermatologist tested
• 50% recycled plastic tube

Directions: Apply after Shampoo with Mango on hair lengths and ends. Leave on for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse. For the driest hair, can be used as a cleansing conditioner instead of your regular shampoo.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua)*. Cetyl Alcohol*. Ethylhexyl Palmitate*. Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine*. Dicaprylyl Carbonate*. Cetearyl Alcohol*. 1,2-Hexanediol. Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter (Mangifera Indica Seed Butter)*. Benzoic Acid. Cetearyl Glucoside*. Fragrance (Parfum). Lactic Acid*. Sclerotium Gum. Tocopherol*. Yellow 5 (Ci 19140). Yellow 6 (Ci 15985) *natural origin ingredients. Free of: Sulfates, Parabens, MIT, Silicones, Mineral Oils, Essential Oils.

Overall Assessment: If you have dry hair and love the aromatic mango haircare, then you will likely love this shampoo and conditioner as much as I do. These are a true delight to use.

Press Sample (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Rayhome Colorful Polymer Plastic Hummingbird Feeder

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I have a lot of hummingbird feeders and birdseed feeders in my yard to keep the local birds happy, and therefore I was happy to try the Rayhome Colorful Polymer Plastic Hummingbird Feeder. This hummingbird feeder may look like heavy handblown glass, but it is actually a very lightweight polymer plastic instead. It was discovered by the hummingbirds the day that I hung it in the tree, and they visit it every single day. If you want a glass feeder, then this isn't for you. However, if you want a plastic feeder that is attractive and easy to clean, then this is a good choice.

Features:

• Bright colors that attract hummingbirds.
• Leak-proof design because of the tight-fitting silicone gasket.
• Made from environmentally friendly polymer materials that are heat-resistant. 
• Easy to fill and clean. The wide mouth ensures easy cleaning and filling. The base of the feeder is detachable, and therefore all parts are easily accessed for cleaning.
• There are 4 perches for the hummingbirds to sit while they drink the nectar.
• Includes: an ant moat, hanging hook, cotton rope and a cleaning brush.
• Holds 26 oz. of nectar 
• It measures 8.78 x 5.28 x 5.28 inches.

Overall Assessment: The birds approve!

$16.99 from Amazon (Affiliate Links) Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

The Beauty Spotlight Team First Week of Spring in Review

Westman Atelier Lip Suede in Les Nudes is a gorgeous customizable nude lip palette that is nourishing and moisturizing. The shades range from warm rose and mulled wine to the lighter shades peony and café crème, and Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog is bewitched by the colors and formula.

 

Angie at Your True Self Blog has a simple way that she likes to use every year to transition her wardrobe from winter to spring. She shares this technique with you in her post How to Clean Out Your Closet for Spring in 6 Easy Steps.

 

Allison from Never Say Die Beauty announces City Beauty’s 20th Anniversary Sale, 40% off everything, now through March 31. Click here for the code and details.

 

Barbie’s Beauty Bits shares her tips on how to transition your makeup from winter to spring.

 

What do you consider a toy – makeup-wise that is? Marcia introduces you to the fun Alleyoop Multi-Tasker brush on Never Say Die Beauty.

Klorane Revitalizing Water Sleeping Mask with Cornflower Review

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Klorane Revitalizing Water Sleeping Mask with Cornflower is a wonderfully nourishing and hydrating overnight mask that is actually a multipurpose hydrator. It can be used on the face, eye area, neck and décolleté, and you can also use a thin layer in lieu of an evening moisturizer. It is incredibly comforting and effective, and a pleasure to use. Furthermore, it reduces under eye puffiness and dark circles as effectively as top quality eye patches, and it leaves skin soft smooth and supple. Additionally, this antioxidant-rich mask also plumps fine lines and gives skin a dewy glow. It has a wonderful gel texture that melts into the skin, and it has no detectable aroma.

According to Klorane,

Visibly reduce the appearance of puffy eyes and face, pillow marks and dark circles. Naturally awaken your skin with this Water Sleeping Mask that quickly absorbs into skin to hydrate, renew and reeneregize for a radiantly fresh complexion.

Perfect for all skin types, even the most sensitive, especially those with stressed, dull, dehydrated and tired skin.

Directions: After cleansing, apply a generous layer to the face, neck and eye contour area 1-2x per week following the massage ritual. Leave on overnight. Can also be used nightly in a thin layer in place of a moisturizer.

Massage Ritual: 

1. PREP: With your hands flat on your neck, perform small circular movements moving up towards the ears and back towards the center of your neck.

2. VISIBLY DEPUFF: Using two fingers, perform small circular movements starting at your nose, moving down to your jaw, up to the lips and finishing by your temples. 

3. SMOOTH: With your hands flat on your cheeks, apply pressure while moving your palms from the center of the face outwards.

Key Ingredients:

• CORNFLOWER WATER: Pure floral water that provides soothing and softening properties and visibly reduces puffiness to the skin,
• PLANT-BASED HYALURONIC ACID: Capable of holding 1000x its weight in water and diffusing it into the skin. Instensely moisturizes to leave skin feeling soft, supple and plump.
• DEXTRAN SULFATE: Visibly reduces puffiness and tones the skin.
• ORGANIC EDELWEISS: Powerful antioxidant that protects against external aggressors.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Sclerotium Gum, Betaine, Sodium Dextran Sulfate, Sodium Hyaluronate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Blue 1 (Ci 42090), C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, C14-22 Alcohols, C9-12 Alkane, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cyanocobalamin, Fragrance (Parfum), Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, Leontopodium Alpinum Flower / Leaf Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Citrate. No Parabens, Silicones, Phenoxyethanol.

Overall Assessment: This is a lovely, and effective, multi-purpose sleep mask, and I highly recommend trying it!

$32.00 for 1.6 oz. from Klorane, bluemercury, Revolve, Amazon and Dermstore (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Vasanti Cosmetics Liquid Cover Up & Vasanti Lotus Brightening Powder: The Cure for Dark Circles

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Vasanti Liquid Cover Up & Vasanti Lotus Brightening Powder are perfect picks for people who have dark circles (periodically or all of the time). In order to find your perfect color match, you simply take Vasanti's Dark Circle Eraser Quiz (HERE).

I took the quiz and it determined that my best shade for the Liquid Cover Up is V1 (Fair to Light) and the Lotus Brightening Powder in 100 Volts (Fair to Light), and as soon as I opened them I agreed with the quiz results. I do not have dark circles all of the time, but I definitely get them when I don't get enough sleep and when I spend too many hours a day staring at a computer screen. I either use Liquid Cover Up by itself, but sometimes I set it with Lotus Brightening Powder, and the combination of the two is miraculous! They last all day long, they never cake or settle into fine lines, and they do not dry out the delicate eye area.

Vasanti Cosmetics Liquid Cover Up Foundation & Concealer in 1 ($27.00 for .54 oz from Vasanti Cosmetics and their Amazon Store): The color that was selected for me from the quiz results was Color: V1 - Fair to Light. This lightweight and creamy concealer offers buildable coverage and it feels wonderful on the skin. It covers dark circles without looking unnatural and its refined finish looks like your skin rather than a heavy concealer. It can also be used on hyperpigmentation, blemishes and anything else that you want to cover.

According to Vasanti Cosmetics,

A liquid concealer + foundation in one. Provides incredible coverage with a featherlight finish - you won't be able to tell you have it on. Will blend into your skin without leaving a trace, and will even out your skintone while disguising under eye circles and camouflaging blemishes.

Directions: Using the applicator brush, apply Liquid Cover Up on well-moisturized skin. Then, using a foundation brush, makeup sponge, or your fingertips, blend the foundation out to achieve a natural, flawless look. Start with a light application and build as needed.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua / Eau), Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Talc, PEG-12 Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Phenyl Trimethicone, Isononyl Isononanoate, Stearyl Dimethicone, Sodium Chloride, Sorbitan Olivate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, C30-45 Alkyl Methicone, C30-45 Olefin, Dimethicone, Methicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol.+/- (MAY CONTAIN): Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499).

Vasanti Cosmetics Lotus Brightening Powder ($40.00 for 0.19 oz. and currently on sale for $25.00 from Vasanti Cosmetics and their Amazon Store): This loose powder effectively sets the concealer and it offers a wonderful brightening effect. Most notable is the fact that it simultaneously blurs and brightens while feeling light on the skin. It neither dries out the delicate skin, nor does it cake and settle into fine lines. N.B.: Currently Vasanti is offering an Oh Sponge gift with your purchase of Lotus Brightening Powder (shown below).

According to Vasanti Cosmetics,

A soft loose powder made to brighten the skin underneath your eyes and blur the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles.  

Features:

• Instantly brightens underneath the eyes 
• Minimize appearance of fine lines/wrinkles 
• Prolongs makeup wear 
• Sets makeup for a flawless finish 
• Absorbs excess oils 
• Will not crease! 
• Non-ashy 

Direction: Apply a layer of Lotus Brightening Powder underneath eyes after colour correcting/concealing, let it sit for 10 seconds and blend out.  

Shade Recommendations:

100 Volts - Very Fair to Light Skin Tones

200 Volts - Light to Medium Skin Tones

300 Volts - Medium to Golden Skin Tones

400 Volts - Golden to Deep Skin Tones

Ingredients: Silica, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Mica, Zinc Stearate, Nelumbium Speciosum (Lotus) Flower Extract Phenoxyethanol. May Contain (+/-) Iron Oxides (CI77491, 77492,77499).

Top to Bottom: Vasanti Lotus Brightening Powder in 100 Volts and Vasanti Cosmetics Liquid Cover Up in V1.

Vasanti Cosmetics Liquid Cover Up in V1 and Vasanti Lotus Brightening Powder in 100 Volts together.

Overall Assessment: Vasanti Liquid Cover Up is the nicest concealer that I have used in many years, and it is quickly becoming a Holy Grail product for my daily use. I don't always feel the need to set it with the Lotus Brightening Powder, but I love the results when I do. These are A+ products from a wonderful cruelty-free brand.

Press Sample (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

I exclusively tested Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream for more than a month, and I was very pleased with my results. Professor Bader suggests using his cream for 27+ days since that is the amount of time it takes for a full cycle of skin cell turnover. Therefore, for optimal results one should initially test this cream alone and avoid all other products except for your daily cleanser, and obviously your sunscreen. That is precisely what I did, and it was definitely worth following his advice.

As previously noted, this product has received a lot of hype since it launched, but I was honestly more interested in trying it after reading about the creator of this line. Augustinus Bader is a physician and biomedical scientist who created his products after more than 30 years of research and innovation in his field. He tracked the results  in test subjects over a 27 day period, and HERE are his results.

About Augustinus Bader:

Professor Augustinus Bader is a globally recognized biomedical scientist and physician and one of the foremost experts in the field of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine.

In a career that has spanned the globe, the German-born Professor has spent over 30 years researching and developing technologies that activate and harness the human body's capacity to heal, with a focus on the reawakening of cells that become dormant due to aging or trauma. In 2008 he developed a groundbreaking Wound Gel that heals severe skin traumas without the need for surgery or skin grafts. It is this revolutionary technique that inspired Augustinus Bader skincare.

Professor Bader is currently the director of Cell Techniques and Applied Stem Cell Biology at The University of Leipzig, in Leipzig, Germany where he lives with his family. 

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream is a very rich and emollient cream that is deceptively thin in texture, and yet its richness becomes evident as you massage it into the skin. The texture is heavier than expected, but it melts into the skin in such a satisfying and luxurious way. You can really feel the richness imparted by the presence of the nourishing Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, and Shea Butter. Therefore, it is no surprise that it is aptly called The Rich Cream, and that it was formulated for normal to dry skin, more mature skin and for skin subjected to colder and drier climates. My normal/combination skin would dictate that I should have tried Augustinus Bader's The Cream, rather than The Rich Cream, but my penchant for face oils made me more interested in the ingredients used in the latter, rather than the former. 

I was also very interested to learn more about his proprietary TFC8®, or Trigger Factor Complex, which is describes as "an exclusive patented technology comprised of over 40 ingredients and inspired by over 30 years of research, innovation and clinical study."

TFC8® Claims:

1) TFC8® technology guides key nutrients and powerful natural ingredients to the skin, creating and supporting an optimal environment for cellular renewal.

2) TFC8® turns potent base formulations into smarter, adaptive skincare capable of addressing individualized concerns - such as the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, redness, hyperpigmentation, cellulite, stretch marks, and damage caused by external stressors.

3) TFC8® nourishes and protects, training the skin for the long-term. Resulting skin looks and feels healthier, firmer, stronger, and more even over time.

I used this ultra-nourishing cream twice a day and I found it intensely moisturizing, without being in the least bit greasy. My skin had a pronounced clarity, and it was vibrant, luminous, soft and supple after about a week of use. I noted that going through the full month of use, to coincide with a full skin cell turnover cycle, was a very wise choice. My skin had the same freshness and clarity that I experience when I regularly exfoliate my skin, but without exfoliating a single time in that 30+ day trial period, and that is quite remarkable to me. I also noted that my little spot of hyperpigmentation had faded considerably and my fine lines were noticeably softened.

Worthy of note: this cream is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, vegan, free of parabens, formaldehydes, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, sulfates SLS & SLES, triclocarban, triclosan.

About The Rich Cream:

Clean Science. Powered by TFC8®. An upgrade of our original award-winning daily moisturizer. Intensely luxurious, hydrating and nourishing. Supports cellular renewal to dramatically improve the complexion's appearance. Backed by 30 years of research and innovation. Powered by TFC8®. Housed in a recyclable bottle. Carton is FSC certified, carton, insert, and leaflet are 100% recyclable.

KEY BENEFITS:

• Clinically proven to reduce the signs of aging including the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation
• Deeply hydrates, conditions, and renews for soft, even, restored skin
• Promotes elasticity, supports skin barrier function, and prevents transepidermal water loss - for skin that’s supple, plump, and smooth.
• Protects against environmental aggressors
• TFC8® supports cellular renewal and guides key ingredients to the cells.

According to Augustinus Bader, in user trials:

• 97% agree skin’s tone and texture looks dramatically transformed.
• 96% agree skin looks firmer and lifted and feels more supple and elastic.
• 95% agree the appearance of fine lines/wrinkles is dramatically improved.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Squalane, Glycerin, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Ethyl Oleate, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Magnesium Sulfate, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate, Zinc PCA, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Maltodextrin, Citric Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Xanthan Gum, Alanyl Glutamine, Arginine, Oligopeptide-177, Phenylalanine, Sisymbrium Irio Seed Oil, Sodium Chloride, Dextran, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8.

Overall Assessment: While this is no doubt a very hyped product, and brand for that matter, I am very impressed by its efficacy and my results. This is an ultra-luxe face cream, with a price tag to match, but I am elated by the results and by the way it makes my skin look and feel. If you have normal to dry skin, then The Rich Cream is the right choice for you. If you have combination to oily skin, then it will likely be far too rich for you. It is definitely worth trying to get a sample, or purchasing the smallest size to try, or you could do what I did and wait for a Sephora sale since this is such a luxury splurge. I guess the biggest question is whether I like it enough to repurchase it again, or to try more Augustinus Bader products, and the answer is yes to both. However, I will definitely wait for another Sephora sale since this cream is so expensive.

$89.00 for 0.5 oz, $175.00 for 1 oz. and $280.00 for 1.75 oz. from Augustines Bader, Sephora, Nordstrom, Cult Beauty, Neiman Marcus, Violet Grey, Revolve, Net-A-Porter, Bluemercury, Bergdorf Goodman, Space NK, Saks Fifth Avenue and John Lewis. Purchased (Affiliate Links). 

All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Westman Atelier Lip Suede Les Nudes Review

Purchased (Affiliate Links)

Westman Atelier Lip Suede Les Nudes is a gorgeous sheerer-leaning lip palette that is perfect for people who love customizable nude shades the provide a truly beautiful wash of color. This is a very nourishing lip palette filled with good-for-you skincare ingredients that moisturize and condition the lips. The pigments are 100% natural and range in shades from more pigmented shades such as warm rose and mulled wine to the lighter shades peony and café crème. You can easily mix the shades to customize your perfect nude shade, but the entire palette is intentionally more sheer. You can apply these shades with a brush or with your finger for sheer to light pigmentation with a beautiful sheen. As is the case with sheer to light coverage lipsticks of this sort, they lack the longevity of richly pigmented formulas that stain the lips, but I do not find the wear time lacking. This palette is very comfortable to wear and it boasts the perfect amount of cushion. In short, it feels and looks amazing on the lips, and it offers a couple of hours of wear-time on me. This cruelty-free palette is also vegan.

This palette is of you if you are a fan of cruelty-free eco-luxe cosmetics that are filled with healthy ingredients. The texture is luxurious, and the shades are lovely, but they offer a sheer to light wash of color. Therefore, if you are seeking lipsticks with intense pigmentation and color payoff, then this palette is not for you. I love nudes and sheer to light washes of color, and that is precisely why I purchased this palette, and I am very happy with it. Westman Atelier does offer a richly pigmented palette called Les Rouges (fuschia, deep brick red, tomato red, and warm dusty rose) that may appeal to you instead.

According to Westman Atelier,

Clean, customizable, everyday lip color. This intuitively easy palette contains four nude shades. Nourishing jojoba oil and volume-boosting peptides leave lips conditioned and plumped with a sheer, hydrated finish. Ultra-flattering nudes – in warm rose, peony, café crème and mulled wine – can be worn alone or custom mixed. Sheer suede texture made with 100% natural pigments in a preservative-free and petrolatum-free base.

Top to Bottom: Mulled Wine, Café Crème, Peony and Warm Rose.

I apply this palette with a lip brush or with my finger.

The compact is very heavy and well constructed. Everything about it is luxurious. The mirror is very usable and I us it each time I apply this palette.

The color story is perfect for people who love nude lips.

This is a refillable compact, and to refill you simply push a paper clip or bobby pin through the little hole on the back of the compact to push it from its magnetic base. This type of sustainability practice is something that all cosmetics companies should adopt.

Select Ingredients:

Avocado Seed Oil: Antioxidant, emollient and soothing properties. Helps skin maintain hydration and minimize free radical damage.

Biomimetic Peptides: Boosts collagen production, lip volume, hydration, and softness.

Carnuba Wax: A vegan wax, loaded with fatty acids, that provides a smooth texture. Strengthens the moisture barrier and holds pigment in place.

Organic Jojoba Oil: Provides antioxidant protection, improves hydration, and strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier.

Plant Based Seed Oil: Imparts pillowy, juicy sensation without the stickiness

Shea Butter: Provides nourishing moisture to maintain healthy-looking lips, replacing the need for mineral oil. or petrolatum.

Vegetable-Derived Blend: Clean, plant based cushiony base replaces need for petrolatum.

Ingredients: Ricinus Communis Seed Oil/Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Prunus Avium Seed Oil/Prunus Avium (Sweet Cherry) Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Candelilla Cera/Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Copernicia Cerifera Cera/Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera/Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Lauroyl Lysine, Trihydroxystearin, Mica, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil*/Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tribehenin, Sorbitan Isostearate, Lactic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Limonene. May Contain: Ci 15850/Red 6, Red 7 Lake, Ci 19140/Yellow 5 Lake, Ci 42090/Blue 1 Lake, Ci 45410/Red 28 Lake, Ci 77491, Ci 77492/Iron Oxides, Ci 77891/Titanium Dioxide.

Left to Right: Mulled Wine, Café Crème, Peony and Warm Rose. 

Overall Assessment: I am getting so much use from this lovely palette, and I plan to refill it once I finish it! A+

$85.00 for Size 0.16 oz/ 4.8 g from Westman Atelier, Sephora, Nordstrom, Net-A-Porter, Credo Beauty, Violet Grey, Bergdorf Goodman and Liberty London (Affiliate Links). Purchased. All views expressed are categorically my own. Copyright © 2022 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.