Cake and Scrapes: Shea Terra Organics Cape Aloe Topical Healing Gel (review)

Today my nemesis is…a cake. A great big cake with tons of frosting and fancy writing. It’s my nemesis because I have to deliver it unharmed to an event that’s 60 miles away tonight. And it’s hot outside. And there’s no room in the work refrigerator to store it. So it’s going to be slightly gooey during the hour-plus drive.

And. And. And.

I know…I’m kind of cranky. Hot weather is not my friend, and we’ve had several days of it. Now I know why everyone gets mad at me in the winter when I get all cheerful about the snow while they’re shoveling out their cars.

The bright side (and there are several) is that I’m going to a fun event with a whole bunch of my friends. The other bright side is that if I’m successful, I’ll get to have...cake! And…before either of those things happen, I get to talk about a fine product. From Shea Terra Organics.

Cape Aloe Topical Healing Gel

Blurb: 99.5% Pure & Natural. Heal acne, burns, razor burns, nicks, cuts, wounds, bites and more all at amazing speed. Rare Cape Aloe is known to be the world's most active aloe. Off beaten paths, along bumpy, rocky roads in the Cape of South Africa grows the wonderous, succulent plant. Kept under the watchful eyes as a protected species, the outer leaves of this wonder plant are harvested to extract the healing jelly within. Made up of over 130 active chemicals, Cape Aloe's amazing healing properties is due to its high saponin, sterol, vitamin, mineral and amino acid content just to name a few. Once applied to skin Cape Aloe immediately goes to work to help cells build a protective barrier and aid them with the nutrients that they need to repair skin at an amazingly accelerated rate.

My other nemesis this week was a bad scrape on my hand. This scrape was caused by my mishandling of a cute tortoiseshell barrette. (Don’t let barrettes fool you – they look all innocent and stylish; but they can turn mean.) Of course cake can go a long way towards making any scrape feel better; but since I can’t actually eat any until after it’s delivered, I needed to try something else. So I tried this Gel.

I really love this product! Lots of people grow Aloe plants so they can run out and snip off a piece whenever they need it. Not me. I definitely prefer a handy pump bottle. It’s way more convenient. The healing properties of aloe make it great for just about anything that makes your skin unhappy. You can use it for sunburns, shaving cuts and even ragged cuticles. It helped my hand heal faster, and there was no snipping involved!

The website is currently in progress, but you can still browse the many fine products they have and sign up for VIP specials. Eventually, you’ll be able to visit the Explore Africa, and shea terra tv sections too.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Happy Other People: CLEAN Moisture-Absorbent Deodorant (review)

Oh. Em. (Eff.) Gee.

It is freakishly hot this week. Again. Last night I slept on the sofa (again!); and I’m pretty sure I’ll be sleeping there every night this week.

What a perfect time to review this product. From CLEAN.

Original Scent Moisture-Absorbent Deodorant

Blurb: An aluminum-free deodorant with Clean's original scent. This product's breakthrough formula goes above and beyond typical deodorant performance. The Exclusive Cotton Vantage™ technology helps to absorb moisture naturally, without aluminum. Reminiscent of pure soap, the time-released CLEAN fragrance has that just-out-of-the-shower fresh smell. It's everything you need and nothing you don't!

Normally I would say “run, don’t walk” and pick up one of these – but since it’s several million degrees outside, walking is probably the wiser choice.

First…Omigod it smells good! I mean really, really good. And not overpowering – just...good. If you’re looking for an aluminum-free product, this is a stellar item. It contolled wetness really well, and also kept odor at bay. I probably wouldn’t run a marathon in this; but on a hot day with a lot of errands, it did the job. It was also completely non-irritating (a huge plus for me), and it didn’t leave any white residue.

And did I mention it smells really good?

CLEAN is currently overhauling their website, but you can still shop all of their products at Sephora.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

It’s A Tuesday Kind of Day: Lierac Sensorielle Multi-Use Oil (review)

Meaning…"It’s only Tuesday?"

It was so hot last night that I had to sleep on the sofa. The regular AC in my bedroom just wasn’t enough to cool things off. So I moved to the living room. The thermostat on my industrial strength living room AC no longer works – which causes a continuous, chilling, arctic blast. It’s awesome.

For all of my friends who still live in San Francisco: ”AC” stands for “Air Conditioner” - something I never owned until I moved east. San Francisco is freezing cold in July. Tonight, it’s about 87 degrees here in the Philly ‘burbs. Tonight’s temperature in San Francisco is a right and proper 52 degrees…sigh.

Anyway…everyone here has been all draggy and droopy for the last couple of days and the week seems endless. So maybe instead of being all whiny, I should talk about something nice and pretty. Perhaps something that smells good and makes my skin feel soft and smooth. Perhaps something from Lierac Paris.

Sensorielle Multi-Use Oil for Face, Body & Hair


Blurb: This luxurious polysensory oil provides 24-hour hydration that nourishes and softens the skin and hair with a combination of jasmine, camellia, gardenia and four precious botanical oils: argan, hazelnut, sweet almond, and grape seed.

Here’s another fine product for summer. I was worried that this would be too heavy for the hot weather; but it’s a perfect weight. This oil has a light consistency, and absorbs very quickly into both skin and hair. It also has a very subtle, lovely fragrance (a nice balance of earthy and floral). And the multi-use aspect is fabulous for long days when you don’t want to lug a bunch of products around with you.

By multi-use, I really mean multi-use. I patted some on my hair in the afternoon, and it tamed my midday frizz and flyaways. I also rubbed a little bit more in my hair before I went into the pool to help protect it from the chlorine. As a quick hydrator for my face, it also worked very well.

My favorite use for this, though, was as a body oil. Even though it absorbed quickly (my hands were “slip-free”); it softened for hours. It was a soothing, fragrant bath oil, and an excellent pampering after-bath moisturizer.

Browse all the fab products on the website. See what's new, check out the promotions page and use the store locator. Lierac is also available in European Skincare Centers (at select CVS/pharmacy and Duane Reade locations), Beauty.com, and Skinstore.com.

To balance out yesterday’s ramped-up mod Monday experience; here’s a thoughtful (perhaps...moody?) Tuesday kind of thing…



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Slowly Returning To Calm and Sanity: Schick® Intuition® Naturals Sensitive Care™ Razor (review)

Very slowly. Thanks to all of you who have been patient – and for all the cute notes. This summer is full of fabulous activitivies, and awesome self-discovery, and there just doesn’t seem to be enough time to discover everything. Plus, people keep visiting. Which means I have to clean stuff. It turns out that cleaning also cuts way into discovery and blogging time.

I took on far too many things this summer, and it looks like I need to sit down and figure out how to shave some time off all my obligations. But today...I finally have enough peace, quiet and relative sanity to write a beauty review. And speaking of shaving (heh!), here’s something for your pretty summer legs. From Schick.

Intuition Naturals Sensitive Care


Blurb: Schick® Intuition® Naturals Sensitive Care™ razor has a Skin Conditioning Solid™ that contains 100% natural Aloe with Vitamin E, and is fragrance free and hypo-allergenic so it's gentle on your skin and helps reduce irritation. Now gentler on the environment with 100% recyclable packaging made with recycled materials!

Somehow Schick keeps managing to hit home runs with their products. I’m a huge fan of the Quattro for Women razors, and I was really eager to try this. And because of the design, I thought it would be perfect for traveling. It was!

The first bit of genius is that I don’t need to use any shaving cream. The Skin Conditioning Solid™ that surrounds the blades lathers up while shaving. I not only appreciated not having to bring along an extra bath product; but the convenience of having the shave cream already in the razor also meant I didn't have to find a spot for the shave cream in the teensy hotel shower. The Aloe and Vitamin E also did a nice job of moisturizing.

The razor has an easy-to-grip rubber handle, and a pivoting head. It also comes with a shower hanger and cap. It's unbelievably convenient and portable. Gym bag, overnight trips, long vacations – you name it.

And…I got an excellent, close shave! Awesome!

Take a look at the website. There are some other great looking products as well. Schick products are sold in grocery stores, drugstores and places like Ulta, Walgreens, CVS, duane reade, and drugstore.com.

And…since I’ve been gone MIA for so long…here’s a nice video. Some 1960’s mod angst. The video sequence is a little strange, but this version had the best sound. And it might help wake you up if you have the Monday blahs…Enjoy!



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Happy Pretend Thursday! Olay Purely Pristine™ Body Wash, Bar Soap and Body Lotion (review)

I know…Thursday was a few days ago. I wrote my Thursday and Friday reviews last week; but then things got so hectic and crazy that I never had a chance to actually post them. I could have written “Happy Pristine Thursday” if I had been on time with my postings. But instead…last Thursday is being brought to you now. Along with some fine items from Olay.

Cleansing Body Wash and Moisturizing Body Wash

Blurb: Discover the clarifying crispness and pristine beauty of the Nordic region while you refresh and cleanse to purify your skin with this oxygen-rich lather infused with mineral crystals and seaweed extract.

Massaging Bar Soap

Blurb: Refresh and cleanse your skin with minerals crystals and seaweed extract using this body bar with a massaging design.

Body Lotion

Blurb: Discover the clarifying crispness and pristine beauty of the Nordic region while you invigorate your senses and nourish your skin with this rich moisturizing lotion infused with minerals and seaweed extract.

This line features refreshing spa-like fragrances, and soothing formulas that feel lovely and pampering. The Body Washes had a wonderful, crisp scent, cleaned well and left my skin soft and smelling pretty. The body bar had a textured side, that not only cleaned, but gave my tired muscles a gentle massage. The lotion felt soothing, softened my skin and had a slightly warmer version of the Body Wash/Bar fragrances.

I really enjoyed this line (and each of these items is somewhere in the neighborhood of $5 each). Fabulous value!

Check out the website for more information. You can also browse the new products and offers. Olay products are sold in drug stores, grocery stores, Walmart, Target and ULTA.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

For Dad’s Day: LUSH Dirty Collection - Body Spray, Springwash Shower Gel & Shaving Cream (review)

Many many things need to get done this week. You may know something about that. In addition to my regular goings on, there’s also Father’s Day business at hand. For those of you that are still wondering what to get the Dad (or Dads) in your life; here’s a nifty collection. From LUSH.

Dirty Body Spray

Blurb: Squirt our Dirty spray over your body, day or night, for portable deodorizing when you're on the move. Dirty spray is a deep and powerful freshener any time that you feel rushed off your feet; sandalwood helps to combat unwanted odours and that famous Dirty scent of tarragon, lavender and subtle spearmint will fool even the bloodhounds. Complete your layers with the deeper levels of Dirty. Get guys to ‘can' their aerosol body sprays and start using this freshly fragranced one instead. Plus it's made with real fragrance that will last a lot longer.

Dirty Springwash Shower Gel

Blurb: Like a dip in a mountain spring. After a dirty night on the tiles, jolt yourself back to reality with our tingly spearmint shower gel. Springwash is like a dip in a mountain spring, just in time for the weather getting warmer; spearmint and menthol crystals will make your skin feel cool in a hot shower and give it a sweeter scent than peppermint. Your bits will feel fresher in no time. Mo invented this refreshing and tingly shower gel, adding sodium bicarbonate to soften the water and deodorize the skin, making it absolutely perfect for 'Dirty' guys. There's also glycerine and sea salt in the recipe to soften the skin and hair as you're washing with it.

Dirty Shaving Cream

Blurb: Chin up! Slather, shave and soothe your face with a generous helping of Dirty shaving cream. Calming oat milk, shea butter and honey are great for calming irritations and red marks on sensitive chins. No one enjoys smooching when there's a hairy, scratchy beard face to contend with! Dirty boys should use this softening shaving cream to help the razor glide over the skin and leave their chins looking sharp. Scented with lavender and sandalwood, it's another layer to the Dirty fragrance blend. Not only should the men in your life being using Dirty shaving cream for a slick, fresh face, ladies can also enjoy the feeling of silky smooth, hair free skin on their legs and under their arms with a good dollop of this softening cream.

I love this line! I love to give beauty gifts, but generally the guys aren’t always as eager to “feel pretty.” This line pretty much satisfies everyone. The packaging is straightforward, modern, and has a “no frills” look while still remaining stylish and giftable.

And the products are excellent. Now I have to admit that I was the only one who tried the Shaving Cream. I kept it all for myself, and I loved the scent. I did have an actual guy try out the Body Spray and Shower Gel, though. He thoroughly loved both of them. The peppermint/sandalwood/tarragon combo is fresh and botanical without being girly. Not only did he enjoy the Body Spray, but I enjoyed it on him. We both gave the Shower Gel a try (he showered with it, and I used it as a bubble bath). It was heavenly and refreshing. The mint was more noticeable, and I felt incredibly clean and fresh afterwards.

The website has the entire collection, and there’s also very nice Get Dirty Gift set.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Sunday Edition: LUSH Retro Favorites

Check out the fab retro fab favorites that LUSH has brought back for the summer…

Ask [LUSH] And Ye Shall Receive...

Here at LUSH it’s all about innovation and keeping things fresh. This exciting modernization also means having to say goodbye to some products to make room for the new ones. But what about those loyal fans who can’t live without X, Y or Z and like to tell us so? Don’t worry we’ve got them covered with our Retro line of re-released discontinued products that are available exclusively online at www.lushusa.com. Here are just a few of the fan favorites that are making resurgence in the LUSH line-up this summer:

In the Nude Bath Melt: Get in the nude this summer! This naked bath melt is small and discreet, yet it’s rich in moisturizing cocoa butter and scented with the divine combination of almond oil, lavender oil, rose absolute and chamomile oil.

Shave The Planet Shaving Cream: The antioxidants and vitamin-rich ingredients soothe and reduce redness while repairing and softening skin. Fair trade organic shea butter and cupuacu butter condition skin as the rose absolute and bamboo infusion soothe it. Vitamin-rich pumpkinseed and cold pressed rosehip oils make for a smooth shave and calm skin. LUSH’s 100% PCR packaging make sure that as you shave you save the planet.

Milky Bar Soap: This creamy, comforting soap smells like hot milk, which is nice to wash your body with just before going to bed. Milky Bar Soap is made with nourishing soya milk (so it's vegan!) and toning sweet orange and patchouli oils. Give a chunk to all the sweet people you know for glowing, touchable skin to slip into the sheets for a good night’s rest. (Vegan)

Smitten Hand Cream: LUSH customers asked very politely (but persistently) for a lighter, daytime hand cream scented with the same deliciously mouth-watering almond fragrance as our Snowcake soap. LUSH founder and product creator extraordinaire, Mark Constantine, created Smitten in response. Smitten is a fast-acting, deliciously scented, chamomile and coconut butter hand protector enriched with wheat germ to make your hands feel soft and luxurious while smelling like delicious almond frosting.

Sunday Edition: Perfect Brows with Parissa

Check it out – mini wax strips for perfect brows!

Warm Weather Is...Afoot: AHAVA Dermud Intensive Foot Cream (review)

The heat has definitely arrived! Record-breaking temperatures! Yuck.

First I want to send a shout out to all my friends at Americade who are camping (you heard me right…camping) in the heat. I wish you safe travels, plenty of shade, and big bottles of water (and/or beer).

Here at home, I’m spending the day barricaded in my air conditioned apartment and doing things like coloring my hair, cleaning, and later on giving myself a mani/pedi. One of the fine things I’ll be using to make my feet pretty is something nice from AHAVA.

Dermud Intensive Foot Cream

Blurb: This soothing cream is a real difference maker for my dry feet. It's hydrating Dead Sea mineral mud formula relieves itchiness, redness and scaling. It leaves my feet feeling remarkably soft, supple and comfortable. Aloe Vera and Shea Butter extracts soften and smooth very dry and sensitive skin. Coconut and Jojoba oils helps to lock in moisture for all day comfort. Provitamin B5 and Vitamin E protects and rejuvenates.

I like to wear as little footwear as possible (except for the occasional pair of cute high heels). I only own about 4 pair of socks because that’s how rarely my feet are covered. That means my tootsies are visible to the elements (and the general public) most of the time. Even more in the spring and summer. So I know from foot cream.

This particular Foot Cream is excellent! It’s a very thick, soothing cream; and it also absorbs very quickly. It makes my feet look softer and better immediately. My feet also feel great – even the roughest parts. What I especially love is that there’s no stickiness or greasiness - which is aweseome when I don’t feel like sliding around in my sandals.

The website is full of wonderful things for your skin. Orders over $50 ship for free, and you get free samples with each order. You can also find Ahava at drugstore.com. And…this Friday (June 10); tune into HSN (8am to 10am) to learn about the Foot Renewal Treatment Duo and Bath Salts Trio.

And now here's something kind of bikery for my motorcycle riding friends. Kind of. My sister and I were crazy about this song when we were kids. I remember singing our own version of it with our little neighbor friend. Imagine 7 and 9-year-olds singing “you’ll see the world from my Harley.” Kinda cute (and slightly alarming). This youtube version features tv clips instead of the band (I have no idea why).



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Aaaaand…We’re Back! Thymes Agave Nectar Body Wash (review)

As I mentioned earlier, last week was a giant, hectic, crazed festival of stress. I had an amazing Memorial Day weekend; but then had to hit the ground running Tuesday morning. And I kept running. Then I ran some more. By the time I stopped it was the weekend again.

But once I did stop? Beauty treats to soothe my spirit. Starting with this gorgeously scented body wash. From Thymes.

Agave Nectar Body Wash

Blurb: Whether used as a shower gel or body cleanser, awaken your ability to thrive with skin-quenching lather blooming with fresh fragrance. Glycerin attracts moisture and softens skin while agave extract helps soothe. Agave Nectar is an oasis for your skin, tapping the resilience of the desert. Agave nectar, cocooned within the quenching agave plant, forms a warm, honeyed base note. Above, layers of ruby red grapefruit, delicate lemon blossom and tangy guava pulse with refreshing citrus, radiating a bright, cheerful optimism. And soothing aloe leaf and subtle crystalline musk deliver a clean, fresh finish.

After last week was over, I seriously needed some pampering, refreshment and rejuvenation; and this Body Wash was more than up to the task. I got loads of soft, bubbly lather, and my skin was clean, balanced and soft. I love citrus fragrances, and this one is a standout. It’s a heavenly balance of tart and sweet with a bit of warmth and softness. It’s an excellent pick me up. I immediately felt a whole lot better.

Check out the website, and take a look at the Complete Agave Nectar Collection. There’s also a beautiful gift section, and a handy store locator. Thymes is sold in fine independent specialty stores across the United States and Canada (and in certain international markets).

Here’s to smooth sailing this week!

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

While I’m Away: LUSH Graduation Gifts & NEW Dirty Collection

Oh LUSH! How you tempt me with your…tempting…temptations!

Ahem. Okay, just check out the gorgeous stuff…

Graduation Gifts from LUSH!

Shower Me With LUSH: College dorms do not come equipped with baths, so give her this beautiful reusable hat box (great for storage when empty) filled with 10 shower power products.

Celebrate: Celebrate is a bright 'n bouncy bunch of reviving body treats to help her celebrate whatever needs celebrating and recover afterwards. It's got an uplifting grapefruit shower gel, zesty soaps to perk her up and a massage bar to give her a really good boost of vitamins (and a bit of sunshine).

Happy Gift: Get happy with a septuplet of cheery products embedded with good mood potential - scented of grapefruit, mandarin, lemon and bergamot which are all shown to improve mood naturally. If she’s feeling down about the big changes ahead, this will wash her cares away!

Sweet & Dreamy: Our Sweet and Dreamy Gift has a plethora of the creamiest and dreamiest of bath treats, soaps, moisturizers and massage bars to soak, scrub, slather and stroke her anxiety away with blends of calming lavender, honey, chamomile and vanilla.

You’re a Star: Everyone from Halle Berry and Angelina Jolie to Lindsay Lohan and Madonna has admitted to loving LUSH! Every item in the box has been selected by an A-list celebrity, You're A Star box is a collection of their choices to help her feel like the star she is!

LUSH Legends: Show her your pride by giving her this shiny gold hat box filled with LUSH’s best-selling products. Face, feet, hands and everything in between, this gift will have her beauty needs covered from head to toe.

Get Dirty with LUSH!

For people who care about their appearance but can’t be bothered with too much paraphernalia in the mornings, the NEW “Dirty” collection is a no-nonsense fragrance that hits you with intensely crisp spearmint, thyme and tarragon, and the subtle smell of calm seas.

Dirty takes the common idea of ‘layering’ with beauty products a little bit further. Normally, grooming products will all have a different scent. However, this new concept of layering means you can shower in invigorating spearmint and thyme, shave with soothing lavender and sandalwood, and style hair with tarragon and oak moss. Once all of these products with their individual fragrances have been used, the combined scent will be that of Dirty, and can be topped off with the body spray, which contains all those main notes.

Dirty Spring Wash Shower: Don’t be a dirty rotten scoundrel. Recreate your very own mountain spring and wash with this tingly, softening, minty shower gel that contains spearmint, thyme, and sea salt.

Dirty Shaving Cream: Shave it all off using our ultra-softening oats and benzoin shaving cream. There’s also lavender and sandalwood in there to soothe any irritations.

Dirty Hair Gel: Refresh your coif with our conditioning and softening, firm hold styling product. Made with fair trade coconut oil, linseed gel and balm herb infusion for the perfect just-got-out-of bed style.

Dirty Body Spray: If you don’t have the time for a full-on Dirty routine in the morning, take a quickie instead and spritz yourself liberally with this body spray before you head out the door. No one will ever know.

While I’m Away: New! Lierac Multi-Use Sensorielle Oil

Check out the newest launch from Lierac Paris. A new multi-use oil for hair, face and body…

A Memorial Day Must-Have!
New! Multi-Use Sensorielle Oil With Gardenia, Jasmine, Camellia

As we gear up for the long weekend, there's only one new product we're packing in our tote bag! New! Lierac Paris Sensorielle Oil is formulated with gardenia, jasmine and camellia PLUS 4 botanical oils: argan, sweet almond oil, grapeseed and hazelnut. This multi-use oil may be used on the hair, face and body. Apply it anytime for 24-HOUR hydration.

Lierac Tip!
Apply oil to the body before taking a bath for added protection. OR add to bath water to create a delicious, aromatic bath water.

Available now at http://www.lierac-usa.com, Select Healthy Skincare Centers at: CVS/pharmacy, and Look Boutiques at Duane Reade pharmacy. Also available online at http://www.beauty.com, and http://www.skinstore.com.

While I’m Away: NEW Schick Intuition Limited Edition Handles

They have arrived! Adorable (limited edition) handles on the newly designed razors. So pretty! Take a look…

The New Schick® Intuition® Limited Edition Handles Are Here!

Introducing the newly designed, Schick® Intuition ® Limited Edition Razor, featuring decorative handles to personalize your beauty routine and add fun to your shower. The first and only razor that lathers, shaves and moisturizes in one easy step leaving your skin noticeably softer. Now with a redesigned moisture-rich conditioner with shea butter, aloe and Vitamin E, and a fourth blade to give you an even closer shave. It is the ultimate beauty accessory!

Schick® Intuition ® Limited Edition Razor Benefits:

Four-Blade Enhancement
Keeps skin safer from nicks and cuts
Allows for a precise shave, with a pivoting head that follows the contours
Makes it easier to experience a flawlessly smooth shave

Enhanced Skin Moisturizing Solid

o Eliminates the need for shave gel, soap, or body wash

o Contains shea butter, Vitamin E and aloe to soothe and moisturize skin as you shave

One-of-a-kind Ergonomic Handle *In three “Limited Edition” design styles

o Slim design fits comfortably into the hand

o No-slip rubber grip on sides allow for precise control

Available in three varieties of razor handles:

o Intuition® Moisturizing Care Pack Duo

o Intuition® Pomegranate Extract

o NEW Intuition® Naturals for Sensitive Skin with Aloe and Vitamin E

Smoothing Out My Tuesday: Satin Smooth RES-Q™ Ingrown Hair Treatment Mousse (review)

Rough morning.

Rocky day.

Sheesh.

Time to salvage the evening with talk about something smooth. From Satin Smooth.

RES-Q™ Ingrown Hair Treatment Mousse

Blurb: Sensitive areas need special care. Satin Smooth® Res-Q™ Ingrown Hair Mousse delivers ultimate comfort, healing razor burn, irritated skin due to waxing, electrolysis, lasers or shaving. Patented mousse formula penetrates skin quickly. Enriched with antioxidants and calming extracts. Restores skins pH level leaving your skin beautifully soft as silk. Confidence Never Looked So Beautiful!

I have tried just about everything I can think of in the area of hair removal. And when spring and summer roll around, I start looking for anything that will help the cause. Recently I started epilating my underarm area, and I’m really happy with the results. So much less upkeep! But I was still getting ingrown hairs. Sigh.

I’m happy to report that this product has helped a lot. It’s definitely kind and soothing to sensitive skin (make sure to wait 24 hours after hair removal before using). And after using it for two weeks, there’s a significant improvement. I found that applying it after my shower and before bed seemed to work best. I also tried it on my bikini area and noticed that there were a lot fewer bumps. Excellent!

Visit the website to read the testimonials or find a salon. I also found Satin Smooth at folica.com.
(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Getting Started: Remington’s NEW Smooth & Silky Collection

Check out three more ways to stay smooth this summer…

Wave Hello to Smooth
Featuring the Remington Smooth & Silky Collection

The summer waves are almost upon us and Remington is getting ready for smooth sailing with three new electric shavers from the Smooth & Silky collection. Featuring dual foils for closer skin contact, a revolutionary hypoallergenic cutting system to combat irritation, and Curve Flex Technology – a contour following trimmer system with a protective guard that effectively trims long hairs and reduces skin irritation – these new shavers are the bare necessities for a flawless, beach-ready body.

Battery-Operated Shaver ($14.99)

Rechargeable Electric Shaver ($19.99)

Smooth-Trim Electric Shaver ($39.99)

The Remington Smooth & Silky collection is available for purchase at Walmart and on Remingtonproducts.com

Visit our Facebook pages – Remington Hair Care & Grooming and Remington Red Chair Ready – and our Twitter pages – @RemHairCare and @RemRedChair

Getting Started: Schick Quattro for Women Disposable Razors Mobile Tour & Sweepstakes

Hi Everyone! I’m getting all caught up on the great beauty news that’s in my inbox! I’m a little late with this one, but I wanted to pass on the info about the Mobile Tour that’s happening. The Schick Quattro for Women Disposable Razors Raspberry Rain “Shower Your Senses” Mobile Tour kicked off on Saturday, April 30. Check out the info, and the schedule of cities.

And don’t forget to visit the Facebook page and enter the sweepstakes!

Schick Quattro for Women Disposable Razors Raspberry Rain “Shower Your Senses” Mobile Tour and Sweepstakes!

Schick® Quattro for Women® Disposables announces the “Shower Your Senses” mobile tour to introduce the new Schick Quattro for Women Disposables handle scented with Skintimate® Signature Scent™ Raspberry Rain, the first collaboration between Quattro for Women® Disposable Razors and the #1 Skintimate® Signature Scent™ Raspberry Rain to offer a delicious shave experience with results so smooth you could skip a day or two.

Tthe “Shower Your Senses” tour will visit fifteen cities across America, bringing a stimulating shower experience to life by letting you immerse your senses through fun, sensorial engagements at each location: enjoy the scent of raspberry wafting through the air, relax with a touching hand massage, listen to soothing sounds of rain, taste delicious raspberry candy, and see yourself in our shower photo booth.

Those of you who “LIKE” Schick® Quattro for Women® can enter the “Shower Your Senses” Sweepstakes through Facebook for a chance to win a full sensorial spa get-away at the JW Marriot Desert Ridge Resort in Phoenix, AZ. You’ll also have a chance to win weekly spa themed gift packs or fashionable rain gear to stay looking smooth.

Visit Facebook.com/schickquattroforwomen and @QuattroforWomen on Twitter to follow the “Shower Your Senses” bus as it travels across America, through July, and get the chance to win random prizes, view photos from each event, and get insider news.

Schedule:

May 22: Dallas, TX (Six Flags Over Texas)
May 28: Cincinnati, OH (Taste of Cincinnati)
June 4: Atlanta, GA (Summerfest)
June 10: Miami, FL
June 16: St. Louis, MO
June 19: Chicago, IL (Navy Pier)
June 25: Minneapolis, MN (Mall of America)
July 3: Boston, MA
July 9: New York, NY
July 15: Washington DC

I Feel…Procrastinatey: Dickinson’s Oil Controlling Towelettes (review)

Yes, I’m making up words again. A sure sign that things are back to normal. Yesterday’s chaos and crankiness are gone, and I’m all cheerful again. So cheerful that I have been cheerfully doing all kinds of fun little things, and not getting much real work done. But I’m having fun not doing it.

One of the things I usually do when I’m in for the night is wash off my makeup. But guess, what? I haven’t done it yet. Which brings me to one of my favorite new things. From Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel.

Oil Controlling Towelettes

Blurb: The soothing blend of Witch Hazel and aloe in our facial wipes rejuvenates your skin by gently lifting dirt, oil and impurities from your pores while nourishing even the most sensitive skin. The result is a clean, refreshed and blemish-free complexion – naturally! Individually wrapped cleansing wraps. Perfectly clean and naturally balanced skin – even when you are on the go.

Go get these.

When I was a kid, we always had a bottle of witch hazel in the bathroom cabinet. I’d put it on a cotton ball, and swipe it across my face for a quick clean up. I didn’t know that it was a botanical extract with soothing and healing properties. Or that it was a natural skin care solution. I just knew that it was a quick way to freshen up.

Well now that I’m a grown up (sort of), I actually care about things like soothing and healing properties; and terms like “natural” and “botanical extract” get me all happy. And what really gets me happy is that I didn’t feel like washing my face when I got home; so I took one of these handy little towelettes out of a handy little packet and swiped it across my face. I still have to finish later; but I did my skin a big favor by letting it breathe for an extra 4-5 hours.

In addition to helping lazy people like me, these towelettes have a ton of uses. They’re great for the beach, (and for removing sunscreen afterwards), and good for cooling off and re-balancing your skin after a workout. I’ve used them to gently blot afternoon oiliness, and for a quick clean slate when switching from day to evening makeup. Witch hazel removes everyday dirt and oil without overdrying - it actually soothes and conditions. On a hot day, they’re good for a quick freshening up all over. I can even use them on my really sensitive neck area. I also keep a few in my bag for an emergency hand “wash.”

The website has a whole lot of facts about witch hazel. There’s also some good information about care for oily skin, as well as other skin types. Dickinson’s is available at grocery stores, drugstores, and online at sites like drugstore.com.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Doubles Wednesday #1: eos Everyday Cucumber Hand Lotion (review)

I’ve had tons of energy all day (which is kind of mysterious since I had trouble sleeping). All that extra energy came in very handy at the gym, though. I was not in the mood to go; but I have some wonderful support. So I got there, and now I feel refreshed...and still fairly perky.

None of this has anything whatsoever to do with beauty products – except for my cheesy tie-in to a refreshing new item from eos (evolution of smooth).

NEW Everyday Hand Lotion - Cucumber Scent (Refresh)

Blurb: Leave your skin feeling touchably soft for hours with this natural, fast-absorbing hand lotion. Designed to fit in your purse, your pocket, or on your desk, eos looks as good as it feels on your skin. Infused with moisturizing shea butter, oat extract, and a generous helping of antioxidants and vitamins C and E, eos hand lotion will leave your skin feeling soft, supple and radiantly healthy long after you apply it.

eos products are designed to pretty, stylish, fun and effective; and they absolutely succeed. The packaging is so fabulous, it almost deserves its own review. It’s slim, lightweight, flips open easily, closes securely, fits just about anywhere, and looks adorable. I love taking this out of my purse!

The formula is also excellent. The cucumber fragrance is fresh and pretty, and the (97% natural, paraben-free, phthalate-free, hypoallergenic, etc.) lotion felt wonderful going on, absorbed right away and kept my hands smooth and soft for hours.

And just look at it!

Ahem…you can look at a whole slew of adorable/effective items by visiting the website. If you want to see them up close, take a look at the where to buy section. eos is available at drugstores, grocery stores and drugstore.com.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Doubles Monday #1: New Clean & Clear® Morning Burst® Body Wash (review)

Hi everyone! After being thoroughly lazy all weekend, I've got my energy back; so I thought I’d post double reviews this week. Let’s get started. Here’s something energizing from Clean & Clear.

New Morning Burst® body wash

BOOST: Mango & Papaya

CHARGE: Pomegranate & Orange Zest

SPLASH: Wildberry & Guava

Blurb: Get Clean! Get energized! Get Going! Designed to help stimulate your senses and energize you all over. Morning Burst® is the only body wash infused with Bursting Beads® that are suspended with exotic fruit extracts. Feel the BOOST of mango & papaya fill your shower as the bubbly formula leaves your skin clean and refreshed. Feel the CHARGE of pomegranate & orange zest fill your shower as the bubbly formula leaves your skin clean and refreshed. Feel the SPLASH of wildberry & guava fill your shower as the bubbly formula leaves your skin clean and refreshed.

This is another fun, fabulous product that’s also an excellent value (16oz. for $5.99). These body washes are fresh, fruity; and the little beads add a bit of extra scrub as well as a fragrance zing. They lathered and cleaned very well, and made my bathroom smell good too. I loved using all three, but “SPLASH” was my favorite. I liked it so much, I even tried it as a bubble bath!

Check out the website for more info (and other products). You can also visit their Facebook and enter their Burst a Move Contest. Clean and Clear is also available at grocery stores, drugstores and drugstore.com.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

May Monday Marvelousness: LUSH Tiny Hands

Once again, LUSH is tempting me…

Get a hand from Tiny Hands!

Spring is finally here, which means it’s time to clean out our closets, plant some seeds and start enjoying the outdoors!

If your hands are still showing signs of the frigid winter weather, not to worry LUSH is offering a helping hand with our innovative NEW! Tiny Hands Solid Serum. Featuring unique ingredients such as velvety argan oil, soothing marigold petals and ethically sourced shea butter, this solid hand serum will heal the roughest of hands. True to LUSH’s eco-friendly fashion, Tiny Hands requires no packaging and can be stored in a reusable tin, which is perfect for traveling.

Tiny Hands Solid Serum is now available in all LUSH stores and LUSH.com.