Category: bath and body

Kiehl’s introduces Aromatic Blends: a fragrant, inspirational journey

Kiehl’s just does it right. I have always admired the brand, but as I have been on this beauty blogging journey, I’ve come to respect Kiehl’s more and more. They have a pulse on exactly what we are looking for, due to their commitment to listening to their customers. This time, it is a scent collection that is balanced, nourishing and beautiful all at the same time.

They have launched four scents that suggest four locales:

These scents also reflect Kiehl’s commitment to unique ingredients, efficacious products, sustainable sourcing and natural ingredients. For this collection, they used an on-site extraction method using only steamed water to capture essential oils directly after harvesting the ingredients, while they deliver their freshest and strongest aromas. Oils are harvested from sustainable farms that provide ongoing local community support. Each scent offers a Fragrance, Skin-Softening Cleanser, and Skin-Softening Lotion.

While this sounds like a perfume collection, it actually has some distinctions. The products are formulated with fewer ingredients than traditional fragrances, allowing the true scent to shine through. The cleanser and lotion are high-performance skin care products. The lotion is actually inspired by the iconic Crème de Corps – giving the same hydration, but with a more blendable formula in my opinion. This botanical blend of Avocado, Olive Fruit, Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel and Sesame Seed oils is used in both the cleanser and lotion. Note: This lotion has immediately become an all-time favorite of mine.

Please read below for further fragrance notes:

Orange Flower & Lychee 

When Kiehl’s was sourcing the world over to find natural, yet efficacious ingredients, the team was introduced to a unique orange blossom essence. This blend was so special and exceptionally fragrant because it was formulated using three different parts of the Bitter Orange tree vs. the typical single orange essence. The Bitter Orange tree is known to produce oranges that deliver a more potent “orange” aroma. By incorporating the stem, leaf and flower in developing our orange flower aroma, we ensure the purest scent expression.

Mr. Suffit describes this fragrance blend, “The Orange Flower and Lychee recreates the atmosphere of late afternoon in a Moroccan garden. The Orange Tree absorbs the warmth of the sun during the day then exudes its strong distinctive essences as the air begins to cool in the evening, while the lychee lends a soft and sweet aroma reminiscent of the roses growing nearby.”

Vanilla & Cedarwood

When sourcing ingredients for its high quality preparations, Kiehl’s aims for fair-trade and sustainable sourcing, when possible. In its sourcing efforts for Aromatic BlendsTM, through its suppliers, Kiehl’s was introduced to a special location in Uganda, a community producing a superior natural vanilla oil. Kiehl’s suppliers work with this community to cultivate high quality vanilla and through a fair-trade program help to institute social change across 6500 vanilla farms. This sustainable sourcing program provides on-going social assistance for the vanilla farmers including the installation of drinking water wells, fair trade pricing and establishment of a financial banking system. Kiehl’s goal to always use the finest ingredients led the company to select this very special natural vanilla from this Uganda community. This Ugandan vanilla with its smooth, nearly smoky aroma is so distinctive and rare and is a direct contrast to commonly and commercially used vanilla extract, which is more sweet and floral.

“The Vanilla & Cedarwood scent is a delicate balance of ying & yang, one part feminine from the Uganda Vanilla, smooth, smoky and just slightly sweet; one part masculine from the Virginia Cedarwood, raw and earthy. Together they blend to form a fragrance that is dynamically simple and irresistibly universal” shares Mr. Suffit.

Nashi Blossom & Pink Grapefruit

Kiehl’s research showed that some of the most alluring scents around the world are derived from the most delicate ingredients. Kiehl’s fell in love with the Nashi Blossom and Pink Grapefruit scents for their unique and distinctive qualities. Kiehl’s was able to use natural extraction for the Pink Grapefruit, however, Nashi Blossom was far too delicate for a typical extraction. This unmistakable scent required an advanced aromatic reproduction. Kiehl’s utilized a unique extraction technology where odorous molecules can be extracted at room temperature but under precise pressure conditions.

“The Nashi Blossom is too fragile to undergo any form of processing. We used a unique extraction technology with a more durable ingredient, ginger, whose aromas helped to strengthen the reproduction of the Nashi Blossom, making it an absolutely pure interpretation of the bloom,” states Mr. Suffit, “the resulting scent is enchanting and joyful as Pink Grapefruit mingles with petally flowers.”

Fig Leaf & Sage 

In search of the purest scent expression, Kiehl’s was looking to capture not only an ingredient’s original scent, but the impact that ingredient had on the surrounding environment. To achieve this, Kiehl’s found a perfumer who spent his childhood in Provence. This fragrance captured the aroma of Provence and is intended to evoke or even create a memory for each Kiehl’s patron.

“The Fig Leaf & Sage unique scent is best described as spring in Provence, reminiscent of the French countryside. The scent expression is not merely that of a fig, but is a combination of the scent of the air beneath the fig trees and the delicate aromas of the herbs in the surrounding fields,” shares Mr. Suffit.

Bvlgari Omnia Coral Eau de Toilette

I’m taking solace in a new summer fragrance to handle the extreme heat. A week of 100+ days has me sweltering, especially after being spoiled with gorgeous weather last weekend in Napa. For days like these, you want a scent that is refreshing, light-weight and cheerful.

Omnia Coral Eau de Toilette is the newest scent from Bvlgari, inspired by the coastal feel and rich jewel color of coral. Goji berries give a citrus punch. Hibiscus flower is a balanced fruitiness with just a bit of floral. And Pomegranate adds a bit of a bite, still highlighting the fruitier feel. The effect, on me, is a tropical and juicy sweetness with pepper. The iconic Bvlgari packaging with interlocking circles always looks glam on the vanity.

I’ve welcomed the compliments: “You smell great!”. Certainly better than the alternative 🙂

Available at Neiman Marcus.

Willa Natural Skincare

Willa Natural Skincare is designed specifically for pre-teen and teenaged skin, but don’t think about stop reading if you don’t fall into those categories.  Because, Willa makes some products that I find compelling and fabulous for my more mature and drier skin. And I am not alone – beauty editors from Lucky, Refinery 29 and Daily Candy agree.

Willa, a pre-teen herself, and her mother have been working for over three years to develop the line. Willa perceptively asked why she has to use her little sister’s “babyish” soap one evening. After an unsuccessful search for an age-appropriate alternative, Willa Natural Skincare was born. Willa’s mother, Christy Prunier, knew developing an early routine to prevent acne and sun damage was crucial.

The packaging is adorable – feminine and fun without being juvenile. I applaud the various SPF products. The color collection is so age appropriate but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to wear it all myself! Perfect subtle color for hot summer days. Some of my personal favorites from the line (all under $11):

  • be brillant natural body lotion contains aloe and chamomile, healing my skin without being tacky or sticky. It absorbs super fast and has a clean, refreshing scent.
  • start fresh foaming face wash has that voluminous, airy foam that makes my skin feel so very clean. But it is gentle, preventing the tight and dry feel. It contains anti-oxidant green tea leaf extract and hydrating Glycerin.
  • smile shine lip gloss is super moisturizing, packed with vitamins C & E, giving lips a sheer ultra-shine. I love the clever clip… no more searching a huge handbag when in desperate need of lip hydration.

The whole line has a conscious formula: Paraben and sulfate free, DEA and phthalate free and Not tested on animals. Made in the USA.  Willa Natural Skincare is available at Target.

Omorovicza The Gold Body Set

Want to whip your skin into summer shape in the most luxurious way? Look no further than the Omorovicza The Gold Body Set. I’d like to say this would make a great present, but I couldn’t possibly part with it and kept it all for myself. I mean, the products contain GOLD! All three products are amazing used in conjunction, but you can also get them a la carte.

First: Gold Sugar Scrub. This is a very granulated scrub that does a great job getting my skin beach ready. It doesn’t irritate but it is an active, physical exfoliator with fair trade golden cane sugar. I love the gentle, spa-like scent – same for all three products. I never knew that gold was an anti-inflammatory and can repair sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles. The scrub also softens the skin with oils and Capsicum peptide, made from peppers, promotes a healthy glow.

Second: Body Cream. Incredibly rich, this cream really softens skin. My skin looks healthier than it ever has before. Maybe because I can’t stop using this stuff? It also can tighten and revitalize skin. Plum almond oil, Rice germ oil and Jojoba oil moisturize and soothe.

Third: Gold Shimmer Oil. My favorite among the collection, this luminous oil really nourishes my skin. I used to use it in the shower and then decided I didn’t want to waste one bit. I now put it on over the Body Cream and it is almost like it seals in the moisture. Calendula oil helps heal and repair the skin. Anti-oxidants act as a defense as you head out into the world. If you don’t want to indulge in the whole set, I urge you to pick up this oil. The gold shimmer is stunning, especially with a summer glow. The flecks are visible but it looks tastefully “blinged out”.

A little more about Omorovicza: In 2006, Margaret and Stephen de Heinrich de Omorovicza began using this ancient healing resource in their skin care system. Their products harness the curitive properties that have been found in Hungary’s thermal baths for 2,000 years. And their packaging is elegant and harkens a glamourous age. Some of my other favorite Omorovicza products:

Self-Tanning Winners (Lotions, Sprays and Mousses)

A few weeks ago, I reviewed my favorite Self-tanning Towelettes. Towelettes are my new favorite way to tan because they give an easy, even color and are great for travelling. But I understand that towelettes aren’t for everyone. Many of you were skeptical about streaking. For those who want a lotion or spray, here are my favorites:

  1. Beautisol Summer Glow™: This stuff is a blogger favorite. The creamy lotion blends beautifully and gives a natural bronze color. It is tinted (which I prefer), so you know where you stand as far as blending and coverage. Also, it works great if you need some immediate color. And I literally cannot detect a scent with their Innovative Pure Scent odor eliminating fragrance technology. The pump bottle makes managing application and breeze. And the detailed application guide is tremendously helpful – it directs you how much product to use for each body part.
  2. Victoria’s Secret Beach Sexy Tinted Self-tan Body Spray: As much as it reminds me of being 14 years old, Victoria’s Secret Bath and Body products have come a long way. Spray dispensers are fabulous for getting to those hard to reach places. And this formula gives deep, rich color. Achieving even application with spray product is easier, but I still highly highly suggest blending with gloved hands (see tip below) after spraying on the body.
  3. Xen-Tan Deep Bronzer Luxe: Okay, I know I sound like a broken record because I am ALWAYS talking about Xen-tan, but it really is a fabulous product. You can use this on the face and body. It has a instant color so you can see where you have blended and applied. The final tan is natural looking and olive-based. And the vanilla scent is yummy. The formula hydrates and smooths with shea butter, Vitamin E, green tea and antioxidants.
  4. St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse: If you are looking for something long-lasting, I think this might be the ticket. Plus, there are loads of benefits to a mousse. The lightweight formula makes it easy to get even, streak-free color. And it dries immediately. I haven’t had any issues with transfer. The scent is slightly more detectable than the other products I’ve mentioned, but it still doesn’t bother me. The color is a lighter, bronzy glow that looks incredibly natural.

And a new tip that basically changed my self-tanning world. Why didn’t I think of this earlier? I have to credit the beautiful Sinead Norenius, founder of Beautisol. She suggested latex gloves for application. This allows you to blend thoroughly and layer without fear of yellow hands. You can also use a mitt (this one by Xen-tan), but I prefer gloved hands as they can get in between toes and underarms easier. When you are finished, just wipe the back of your hands as you remove your gloves and toss!

Laura Mercier’s Almond Coconut Milk Collection

I’m a sucker for those sweet, savory scents. The carmel vanilla scent of Le Métier de Beauté’s lip creams and Tom Ford’s vanilla lip glosses get me every time. And Laura Mercier’s bath and body collections always feature such delicious scents like Crème de Pistache and Crème Brûlée. But her latest collection might be my favorite sweet, tropical scent yet.

Laura Mercier recreated a tropic island ambiance with a mixture of almond and coconut milk. The fragrance is lightweight and clean – perfect for summer. And ideal if you just need a little virtual escape to the tropics.

The following bath & body products are available:

Now through June 10th at NeimanMarcus.com Camp Gorgeous: Free NM Exclusive tote & samples with purchase. Get free shipping with code JUNEFS.