New Natural: Crystal Deodorant

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I must admit I was a bit skeptical to try a “natural” form of deodorant. I am very loyal to my chemically-enhanced version and admit to a slight phobia of body odor. However, after testing Crystal Body Deodorant, my feelings have changed.

Crystal is the world’s leading natural mineral salt deodorant. Made from natural mineral salts, these deodorants form an invisible layer on the skin that creates an unfriendly environment for bacteria. While most deodorants mask odor with heavy scents or fragrances, Crystal deodorants neutralize the bacteria that causes the odor.

I have been using these deodorants for a couple weeks and am shocked by their effectivness. My first thought was to use the Crystal deodorants at night and use my regular deodorant when I am more active. However, I found it worked just as well as my regular deodorant.

The original Crystal Body Deodorant is unscented and available in a stick, roll-on, spray, original Rock, and Towelette. Now available in a variety of scents like Lavender & White Tea and Pomegranate that smell lovely and clean, there is no reason not to try it out.

Tell me what you think!

Dabbling in Depilatories: Veet In-Shower Hair Removal Cream

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VEET In-Shower Hair Removal Cream

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.

Holy Grail: Kiehl’s Creme de Corps

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Kiehls Creme de Corps

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.

Long-Weekend Travel Essentials

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After a long weekend away, here are some of my newly discovered traveling essentials.

CLEAN Anti-Bacterial Moisturizing Hand Cream: As a germaphobe, this moisturizing hand cream promises to protect for a continuous four hours. Unscented, so perfect for in-flight application.

Dior Capture Totale Instant Eye Rescue: Sleep in a tube! The palladium applicator massages and cools the skin to instantly reduce puffiness and awaken the eye area.

MAC Virgin Isle Cream Colour Base: This bright coral blush gives an instant glow to the face with the tiniest amount of product. It can be used on the cheeks and lips and is easy to apply.

Alterna Bamboo Smooth Anti-Humidity Hair Spray: This felxible-hold hairspray protected my hair from the intense humidity. With a quick all-over spray, it locks out frizz all day.

Supergoop! SPF 30+ Save Face Serum: All-in-one SPF. Protect/Moisturize/Repair