Category Archives: Bath & Body
Festival Beauty Essentials
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Be prepared for hot and sticky situations with Glow-T’s Festival Beauty Essentials:
Tory Burch Double Zip Train Case: A great travel case with cool ikat design.
Supergoop! Sunscreen Swipes SPF 30 (21 count): These sunscreen wipes are individually packed, perfect for throwing in your bag. The pre-moistened towelettes are formulated to calm and soothe the skin while providing complete UV protection. Great for sensitive skin, these wipes can be used all over the body.
Coola SPF 30 Unscented Matte Finish Tint: This lightly tinted moisturizer delivers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection. Infused with antioxidants, shea butter, plankton, borage seed oil and evening primrose extract, this lotion will rejuvinate, hydrate and protect. The water-resistant formula and matte finish is great for long days in the sun.
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25: My favorite lip balm to date, this product is incrediably soothing and moisturizing – provides SPF 25 and lasts. Enriched with superior skin conditioners and antioxidants, this emollient balm relieves dry, chapped and irritated lips.
Donna Karen Cashmere Mist Deodorant: Keep dry and odor-free with Donna Karen’s Cashmere Mist Deodorant. Delicately scented with perfume, this advanced formula controls wetness and perspiration.
CleanWell All Natural Hand Sanitizing Spray: Thousands of people and porta-potties… hand sanitizer is a must. This all-natural formula is made with thyme oil that kills all germs and the portable spray makes it easy to carry everywhere.
Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo (Travel Size): Extend time between washes with a dry shampoo. This gentle formula smells nice and absorbs oil and dirt – an instant refresher. Infused with oat milk, it also nourishes the hair while creating volume and texture.
Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes: Remove makeup, dirt and oil quickly with these all-natural wipes. Formulated with aloe vera, cucumber, chamomile and vitamin E, the easy-access wipes cleanse and refresh the face and body. Bonus: When purchased, these biodegradable wipes support to protect the endangered Polar Bear.
RMS Cream Eyeshadow – Solar: Perfect for the desert princess, this cream eyeshadow reflects a sheer wash of gold. A great all-in-one eye product, it doubles as an eye cream to nourish and moisturize the eye area.
NARS Cream Blush – Cactus Flower: The name alone implies desert beauty. This bright coral/spicy pink cream blush can be used on both the cheeks and lips. A very subtle gold shimmer leaves the skin flushed, dewy and healthy.
Givenchy Phenomen’Eyes Waterproof Mascara: Waterproof mascara is a must-have. I assure you Givenchy’s will not budge or smudge. The spiked-ball wand takes a little to get used to but defines, separates and lengthens exquisitely. Tip: With your finger, smudge on the lashline for an instant liner effect that will last.
Laura Geller Balance-n-Bronze: A genius design, adding bronzer and foundation, all-in-one. The color-correcting foundation is sheer but never looks powdery. The baked bronzer is infused with layers of color to achieve the perfect sun-kissed shade. Swipe separately or swirl together to get a glowing, sun-goddess look.
Holy Grail: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil
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Say good-bye to itchy skin and razor burn with L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil. This ultra-nourishing body wash gently cleanses while doubling as a moisturizing shaving foam.
When mixed with water, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil transforms from a soothing oil into lavish foam. The unique texture leaves a satin-like softness all over the body keeping moisture locked into the skin. Rich in almond oil, grape vine, rosemary and nourishing lipids, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil is suitable for both men and women.
This shower oil is unique and like nothing I have ever tried. It is by far better than any shaving cream/gel available. A pea-sized amount is enough to use on the entire leg. It permits the closest shave possible and keeps skin soft and hydrated. It cleanses the skin without stripping it dry and the sweet almond scent will blanket the entire bathroom. L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil has graduated to my Holy Grail list of products.
Summer in a Bottle: Bobbi Brown beach
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Nothing gets me more excited for summer than Bobbi Brown’s beach Fragrance. Layered with notes of jasmine, sea spray and mandarin, it is truly summer in a bottle.
An intoxicating combination of suntan lotion, salty sea and sand, the scent is comforting and nostalgic. The full line of Bobbi Brown’s beach Fragrance include: Body Lotion, Body Oil, Body Scrub, Shower Gel and Fragrance. The products are designed to keep skin glowing and hydrated all summer long. When layered, these products will also keep the fragrance locked-in for hours.
Use these products on a particularly gloomy day when you need a little pick-me-up. The refreshing scent will instantly recall memories of warm sunny days and a calm sea breeze.
LUSH Product Review: Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner
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LUSH is a store that I can play in for hours. The all-natural varieties and the amazingly fragrant atmosphere almost hypnotize me to purchase.
Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner is an in-shower moisturizer that leaves skin insanely hydrated. Infused with argan oil, brazil nut oil, cocoa butter, almond oil and rose extract, this product replaces the need for après body lotion.
The creator of this product,”Ro,” loved the silky feel of her hair after applying conditioner and envisioned a similar conditioning product for the body. In the shower, smooth the Argan Body Conditioner all over the body. Let the cream sit on the skin for a minute or two, then rinse. When washed away, a layer of oils and moisterizers are left on the body, keeping it protected and hydrated. The sweet vanilla/rose-scented cream lingers on the skin for hours.
I would suggest to sample this product before purchase. The layer of film left on the skin is a different sensation to those who prefer a squeaky-clean feeling.
Dabbling in Depilatories: Veet In-Shower Hair Removal Cream
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Depilatory creams are topical solutions designed to remove unwanted hair from practically any area of the body. The #1 disadvantage of using these types of creams is the fragrant smell of rotten eggs. The odor is caused from the chemical ingredients in the creams. Most depilatories contain sulfur and thioglycoate, when oxygen is added, the chemical reaction releases an unpleasant scent. When shopping for depilatory products, marketing gurus promote their products as: “unscented,” “smells like roses,” “lemon-scented.” LIES! I have tried many different brands and have yet to find one that does not leave a trace of odor. Yes, they have done a great job to cover-up the scent, but it is still invariably apparent.
Advantages to using depilatory creams are… they work. A lotion that reveals smooth, hairless legs for days is the lazy-girl’s best (and cheaper) alternative to shaving.
My current favorite depilatory cream is Veet Suprem’Essence In-Shower Hair Removal Cream. The water-resistent formula lets you step into the shower while it works it’s magic and 3-5 minutes later, simply wash off. Veet products contain essential oils from plants and flowers to leave skin soft and mask the unpleasant odor. The scent is still evident but endurable. Also, using a depilatory in a warm shower will make results last longer. Hairs will be softer and more readily removed. Results can last three to five days depending on your hair-growth rate.
I use these creams in the colder months of the year for a couple reasons. After shaving, the “day-after stubble” seems to pop-up quicker when cold and during the warmer months, self-tanning products react strangely with these creams.
In conclusion, depilatories/hair removal creams have come a long way. If you want smooth skin for 3-5 days and can suffer the smell – dabble in depilatories.
Glow-T 2011: Best in Beauty
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Happy New Year! As 2012 begins, I want to recap on my favorite beauty products of 2011. These are items that I constantly reach for and will continue to use in the new year. From skincare to cosmetics, here are Glow-T’s Best of 2011 Beauty Products:
Body Lotion: Kiehls Creme de Corps
Face Cleanser: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser
Face Moisturizer: Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre
Face Moisturizer/Foundation: Origins VitaZing SPF 15
Sunscreen: NIA24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen
Eyeshadow Palette: Urban Decay Naked Palette
Foundation: Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua
Mascara: Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara
Bottom Lash Mascara: Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara
Concealer/Corrector: Giorgio Armani Master Corrector
Blush: By Terry Rose De Rose Blush Fluide
Powder: Becca Fine Loose Finishing Powder
Hair Mask: Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Hair Mask
Makeup Sponge: Beauty Blender
Hair Product: Bumble & Bumble Texture
Lip Product: Smashbox Limitless Lip Stain & Color Seal Balm
Holy Grail: Kiehl’s Creme de Corps
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Kiehl’s was founded as an old-world apothecary in New York’s East Village over 150 years ago. Their products are made with the finest ingredients in unique formulations to assure high quality skincare products. Currently a subsidiary of French cosmetics giant L’Oreal, Kiehl’s can be found in department and flagship stores worldwide.
Creme de Corps body lotion is the brand’s best-selling product. Kiehl’s produces over 1,000,000 ounces of Creme de Corps each year. Used incessantly on models backstage to create glowing skin, this body lotion leaves skin soft, smooth and beautifully moisturized. The ultra-rich formula glides on seamlessly and absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft – not greasy. The unscented body lotion is formulated with rich butters, oils and beta carotene to provide all-day hydration.
By far, the best body lotion I have ever used. No matter how many products I try and test, Kiehl’s Creme de Corps is what I reach for the most.
Tip: Purchase Kiehl’s products at flagship stores, if possible. These stores are known for their generous sample supply. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Skin Savior: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream
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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is a versatile skin conditioning balm used for dry patches, sore skin and much much more.
The formula is almost unchanged since it first appeared in the 1930s. Rumor has it, Eight Hour Cream was originally used as an emollient for Miss Arden’s racehorses’ hooves.
This deep moisturizing balm can be used on the body, face and lips. Hailed backstage, top makeup artists slick it on models lips for instant hydration, apply to the lids for a dewy sheen and use as a face mask for ultimate illumination.
The thick apricot-colored salve is similar to petroleum jelly in texture but slightly more thick and sticky. The only downfall to this product is the smell. A strong medicinal aroma that lasts even after application. The smell is not appealing but Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is worth purchasing for it’s effectiveness.
Known for it’s incredible moisturizing properties, Eight Hour Cream has been labeled as a skin-saver, after-sun soother, shine factor, eye opener, treat for feet and the holy grail product for maintaining glowing, nourished skin.
Dry Brushing: Body Shop Round Body Brush
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In past posts, I have discussed the importance and benefits of body brushing. It helps shed dead skin cells, improve skin texture, increase circulation, eliminate toxins and assist in absorbing nutrients.
The Round Body Brush by Body Shop is my current favorite. It has dense soft bristles that are tough and sturdy. The round shape provides easy control and fits comfortably in the hand.
Dry brush regularly for radiant and healthy skin. Find a brush that works for you, making sure it is not too harsh (may break tiny blood vessels or capillaries).
Gardenia Bath: Kai Bathing Bubbles
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As a bath fanatic, I am always on the hunt for luxurious bath products that nourish the skin and indulge the senses. Kai Bathing Bubbles satisfy all of my bath criteria with it’s intoxicating scent and moisturizing properties.
Kai is a fragrance created by Gaye Straza Rappaport who wanted to capture the aroma of her vacations in Hawaii. The scent is a blend of gardenia, jasmine, tuberose and lilly with gardenia being the prominent note.
When added to a hot bath, this product creates foaming bubbles that perfume the entire room. The bathing bubbles formula blend moisturizing argan oil with coconut and sugar to leave the skin hydrated, supple and glowing.
When drawing a bath, I tend to add a lot of product to produce a sufficient amount of bubbles. However, Kai Bathing Bubbles is very concentrated and a small squirt will engulf the entire tub.
Simple Sponge: Konjac Sponge
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Konjac is a natural food source that has been used in Japanese cuisine for over 1500 years. Ninety seven percent of Konjac is water and three percent is a dietary fiber. Rich in vitamins and minerals, the Japanese have been using Konjac sponges as beauty treatments for centuries.
The unique net like structure of the Konjac sponge, gently massages and stimulates blood flow and new growth of skin cells. A naturally moisture-rich plant fibre in the sponge balances the acidity of the skin and leaves it extremely clean and refreshed with no need for additional cleansers or soap.
Available in diferent ranges, according to skin type, the Konjac sponge can be infused with clays and charcoal for added benefits. Pink clay has been used for tired, devitalized skin, green clay for normal to oily skin and red clay for dry and sensitive skin. Also, available in bamboo charcoal for very oily or acne-prone skin.
To use, gently massage sponge over the face and body in a circular motion. A cleansing solution can be added, but is not necessary. If added, the smallest amount is needed as the sponge will create an immense lather. Splash with warm water to reveal squeaky clean and refreshed skin.
Each sponge lasts for around one to three months and can be found at any health-food stores. Can be used on the most delicate, sensitive skin and is even recommended for newborn babies. The Konjac sponge is simple yet effective and works on every skintype.
Benefits of Coconut Oil: Organic Fiji Virgin Coconut Oil
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Coconut has an abundance of benefits and uses. Enriched in vitamins A, B, C and E, Coconut oil is a natural anti-oxidant that nourishes and repairs the skin and hair.
Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair. It can easily penetrate into your hair restoring it’s protein content and provide incredible antioxidant properties. Coconut oil also contains a powerful antimicrobial called Lauric acid. Lauric Acid is a saturated fatty acid that fights bacteria and infection and has been used in the treatment of acne.
On the long list of benefits, Coconut oil is an amazing moisturizer. Organic Fiji Pineapple Coconut Organic Cold Press Coconut Oil for Face, Body & Hair is my favorite. This product is extremely nourishing and smells amazing. The tropical aroma of pineapple and coconut is relaxing and intoxicating. Slather it all over your hair and/or body and you will instantly be dreaming of your next vacation.
Supple Skin: L’OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate
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L’OCCITANE Almond Milk Concentrate is a whipped body moisturizer that smells divine and banishes dry skin. Rich in almond oil this creamy butter melts into the skin leaving it soft and supple.
The Almond Milk Concentrate uses almond proteins, enriched with vitamin E, to firm and nourish the skin. It also contains silicium, similar to collagen, to restore skin’s support tissue.
The sweet smell of almonds, brown sugar and whipped marshmallows lingers on the skin all day. If applied before bed, the delicious aroma clings to the sheets faintly.
The retro packaging of this body cream, heavy glass jar with silver-tin lid, is just one more reason to continue purchasing the Almond Milk Concentrate.