The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Week in Review

Marsha from Marsha in the Middle shops online frequently and hates returning clothing that either doesn’t fit or that is poorly made. She relies on well-written reviews, and in this feature she discusses what makes a good review.

Do you take yourself seriously as a fashion/style/beauty blogger? Nancy says "I do, although...my style is certainly not everyone's cup of tea... and I know it...that is why I have fun sharing my bloopers, on Nancy's Fashion Style...."

milk_shake Incredible Oil is an obsession-worthy hair oil that fights frizz and offers hair hydration, shine and it smells divine. Lola's Secret Beauty Blog highly recommends this extraordinary haircare gem!

Want to dress up a bit for Mother’s Day? Shimmery clothes for day is a popular way to add cheer to your wardrobe. Angie from Your True Self Blog shares ideas on how to wear the special pieces in your closet, and make them more useful.

Have you tried retinAL instead of retinOL as part of your skincare routine? If you haven’t taken the plunge yet, read Allison from Never Say Die Beauty’s post on why you should. Also, check out her comparison of three different retinal serum brands.

Pamela from Style Yourself Confident asks: ever considered color analysis? Did you know that some colors make you look tired but just a change of shade can bring you to life like Dana who regained her spark!

If you're planning for a summer getaway, don't forget your fun summer vacation nails. Barbie’s Beauty Bits shares fruit-inspired designs and tropical nail art ideas as the perfect way to add a splash of personality to your look.

Credo Beauty Free $25.00 Gift Card with Any $100.00+ Purchase

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Receive a $25.00 Credo gift card with your purchase of $100.00+ on any purchase, now until 5/11/25. Available online and in-stores. Gift card will be mailed to you after your purchase.

Visit: www.credobeauty.com

CocoLash Lashes and Kits Extraordinaire

Press Sample (Unaffiliated Links)

CocoLash celebrates the extraordinary in everyone, embracing beauty beyond traditional standards. Committed to supporting and uplifting individuals, the brand offers premium, high-quality lashes designed to boost confidence and enhance any beauty routine. Each product, from the Super Lash Bond to Precision Tweezers, is meticulously crafted to ensure superior performance and ease of use. Engineered for long-lasting wear, CocoLash lashes provide up to seven days of effortless glamour. With a focus on empowerment and self-expression, CocoLash redefines beauty as a feeling that lasts.

About CocoLash,

Guided by the introspective yet curious nature of our founder, Faith McCoy Scriven, we bridge the worlds of artistry and entrepreneurship to create something truly special for every shade of beauty.

CocoLash began as a product for a savvy stylista and has grown into a catalyst for connection. We aren’t just a lash solution, but a vibrant network of lash-lovers who chat about fashion finds, upcoming events, and meaningful moments in their lives. What started with a simple idea to create easy-to-apply, comfortable, and stunning lashes has evolved into a community-driven brand that celebrates the unique beauty of every individual.

As a brand led by an African American woman who relates to clientele authentically, natural empathy for customers and a commitment to improving the customer experience are at our core. CocoLash celebrates individuality, embracing different preferences depending on mood and celebrating the many shades of beautiful. We believe in raising the bar for self-expression every day and discovering how it feels to embrace your inner beauty for the external world. With us, your individuality shines, your beauty is beyond beautiful, and your confidence glows from the inside out.

According to CocoLash,

Transform your lash routine with the CocoLash Kit, featuring everything you need for

flawless lashes. Our kit is designed to help you create stunning lashes that last up to 7 days.

Each CocoLash Kit includes everything that you need to create gorgeous lashes at home.

However, if you don't need the whole kit, you can purchase your favorite lashes separately. 

CocoLash also lets you create your own custom bundle HERE.

Application Tips: Use our Super Lash Bond for a secure hold. Apply a thin layer along the lash line and place lashes with the Precision Tweezers or Lash Applicator. Removal: Use our gentle Lash Remover to carefully remove the lashes.

Overall Assessment: Whether you want to create gorgeous lashes for a special occasion, or if you treat every single day as a special occasion, CocoLash has many beautiful choices from which to choose.

Prices from $12.00-$14.00 for lashes, $50.00-$60.00 for CocoLash Kit (Unaffiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

ANUA PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Serum Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

ANUA PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a deeply hydrating serum that is formulated to give skin sustained hydration, to plump fine lines and to help maintain the skin's moisture barrier. It offers skin a dewy luminosity, but it is lightweight, fast-absorbing and it leaves behind no oily or sticky residue. It has a very watery texture, and is quite concentrated. Therefore, I recommend a less-is-more approach, and add more as needed. It works quite well on my normal/combination skin, and I think that most skin types would benefit from the hydration this serum imparts. Additionally, it has no aroma whatsoever, and fragrance is not listed among its ingredients.

According to ANUA,

Infused with 100ppm PDRN and Smart Capsule Technology, this daily facial serum enhances the delivery of hydration, leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

Combining PDRN, Hyaluronic Acid, and Collagen for this formula helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier for hydration and a luminous appearance. Enhances skin’s natural radiance with a moisture plumping action for a healthier look. Emerald-toned and fast-absorbing serum leaves skin feeling soft and looking refreshed, ideal for all seasons.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Glyceryl Oleate, Lauryl Glucoside, Myristyl Glucoside, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glutathione, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Sodium Hyaluronate, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Adenosine, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Sodium DNA, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Sodium Citrate, Pentylene Glycol.

Directions: Use after toner as a lightweight serum, layer 2-3 times at night for a skin feel smooth and refreshed after use, or blend into foundation for a glass skin. Apply a few drops to affected areas and gently pat in with your fingertips. Use morning and night before applying oils or moisturizers. When used during the day, be sure to use with SPF 30 or higher.

Overall Assessment: I am a fan of ANUA skincare products, and this Korean beauty brand is affordable and effective. 

$28.00 for 1.01 oz. from ANUA, their Amazon Store, YesStyle and Olive Young (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm is a really lovely cleansing balm in every way conceivable, in my humble opinion. I am a big fan of double cleansing, and therefore I routinely use cleansing oils and cleansing balms before I use my regular cleanser. This step removes all traces of makeup and dirt and it does not strip the skin. This cleansing balm is lightweight and very emollient, and it has no detectable scent whatsoever (and fragrance is not listed among its ingredients). Simply massage a small amount into dry skin (with dry hands), and then add a bit of warm water. It immediately transforms into a light, milky emulsion that cleans every bit of makeup, sunscreen and dirt. It rinses completely clean and leaves behind no oily residue. In fact, skin is left soft, smooth and lightly hydrated. It is just my type of cleansing balm because it does not leave behind a greasy residue that can sometimes require a triple cleanse to remove.

According to TIRTIR,

Achieve clean, hydrated, and radiant skin with the TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm, a luxurious, mineral oil-free cleansing balm that effortlessly removes makeup, impurities, and sunscreen. Infused with the patented Rice Enziotics Complex and active enzymes, this balm gently exfoliates, hydrates, and brightens for a smooth, poreless complexion.

The TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Balm stands out as a multitasking skincare essential that cleanses, hydrates, and exfoliates in one easy step. Its unique formulation combines the patented Rice Enziotics Complex with probiotics and hydrating ingredients to leave your skin feeling refreshed, moisturized, and glowing. Perfect for those seeking a deep cleanse without stripping the skin, this balm is a must-have for your daily routine.

Key Features and Benefits:

Powerful Cleansing Action: Effectively removes 99.21% of waterproof makeup and 99.1% of sunscreen in one use.

Hydrating and Brightening Formula: Enriched with Rice Extract, Niacinamide, and Rice Bran Oil for deep hydration and enhanced skin radiance.

Gentle Exfoliation with Patented Rice Enziotics Complex: Active enzymes and rice-derived ingredients gently exfoliate, clearing away dead skin cells and smoothing rough patches.

Restores Balance with Five Probiotics: Supports a healthy skin microbiome for improved resilience and moisture retention.

Improves Skin Texture and Pore Care: Clinically proven to reduce blackheads by 15.18% and whiteheads by 38.51% while tightening pores and evening skin tone.

Hypoallergenic and Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Dermatologically tested to ensure it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin types.

Directions: Take an appropriate amount with dry hands and gently massage onto your dry face to melt away makeup and residue. Gradually add water while massaging to emulsify, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Overall Assessment: I continue to marvel at the quality, efficacy and affordability of TIRTIR products. If you are among the many people who are obsessed with Korean skincare products, then you do not want to miss out on this amazing brand! If you are new to K-Beauty, TIRTIR is a great brand to try!

$25.00 for 1.69 oz. from TIRTIR, Amazon, YesStyle and Olive Young (Affiliated Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

TIRTIR Niacinamide 20% Serum Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

TIRTIR Niacinimide 20% Serum is a serum that is formulated to treat hyperpigmentation, diminish the appearance of blemishes and leave skin decidedly smooth and radiant. Furthermore, the Hyaluronic Acid deeply hydrates the skin and plumps fine lines and the Retinol reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The 20% Niacinimide works hard to fade hyperpigmentation leaving the complexion more even in tone. TIRTIR, which is made in Korea, is known for their effective and affordable products, and this serum definitely underscores that point. While my skin seldom has blemishes, I do need hydration and I do have some sun damage (hyperpigmentation), and this serum is slowly fading those spots. Since this does include ingredients such as Retinol, it is extremely important to use a high SPF sunscreen daily since you can cause more damage if you don't. It is also very important to consult with your doctor about your skin, and have them evaluate any moles, spots of discoloration, or anything that could potentially be melanoma, skin cancer, or pre-cancerous spots. The last thing that one should do is use active ingredients on those spots. As I have noted many times before, I regularly have my doctor evaluate my skin for any potentially suspicious spots and moles, and the ingredients in the products that I am considering.

According to TIRTIR,

Discover the transformative power of the TIRTIR Niacinamide 20% Serum, a high-performance skincare solution designed to fade blemishes, reduce hyperpigmentation, and minimize enlarged pores. Enriched with 20% niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, and glutathione, this serum delivers powerful brightening and anti-aging benefits for a luminous, youthful complexion.

The TIRTIR Niacinamide 20% Serum is a powerhouse formula tailored for those seeking brighter, smoother, and healthier-looking skin. Combining the brightening power of niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, and glutathione with the hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid and the anti-aging care of retinol, this serum provides a comprehensive solution to multiple skin concerns. It’s the perfect addition to your skincare routine for achieving a radiant, youthful complexion.

Key Features and Claims:

20% Niacinamide for Brightening and Pore Minimization: Visibly reduces blemishes and hyperpigmentation while tightening pores for a smooth, even complexion.

Advanced Brightening Ingredients: Alpha-Arbutin and Glutathione enhance radiance and diminish dark spots, promoting a brighter, more youthful glow.

Hydrating and Skin Barrier Strengthening: Multiple types of hyaluronic acid deeply hydrate and lock in moisture, improving elasticity and resilience.

Anti-Aging Care with Retinol and Zinc PCA: Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while soothing irritation and maintaining skin balance.

Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing Formula: Absorbs effortlessly into the skin, leaving it refreshed and ready for additional skincare layers.

Dermatologically Tested for Visible Results: Proven to improve skin tone and texture, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Overall Assessment: I like this serum a lot, and I find it quite effective.

$25.00 for 1.01 oz. from TIRTIR, Amazon, YesStyle and Olive Young (Affiliate Link). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

CHI Tea Tree Oil Top Picks for Happy Hair & Scalp

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If you periodically need to deeply cleanse and condition your scalp and hair, then the CHI Tea Tree Oil Collection is worth your consideration. The Tea Tree and Peppermint Oils effectively remove product build-up and dirt while balancing moisture levels. It is also very helpful if you have an irritated scalp since Tea Tree Oil has anti-fungal properties, and therefore many people find it very useful in treating fungal scalp conditions, such as dandruff.

CHI Tea Tree Oil Shampoo ($22.22 for 11.5 oz. from CHI & CHI Amazon Store): This is a refreshing and invigorating shampoo that does a very efficient job cleansing the scalp and hair, and effectively removes all traces of product buildup. For me, since I have naturally curly hair, it functions as an efficient clarifying shampoo when I need to remove product buildup, but it is the type of shampoo that I would only use once every few weeks. My husband, who surfs all of the time, finds it very efficient at removing salt, sand and dirt from surfing, but also reaches for it to remove product buildup. He uses it every few weeks, and says that more than that would be unnecessary.

CHI Tea Tree Oil Shampoo offers the invigorating and soothing benefits of tea tree oil and peppermint oil which work together to remove impurities and excess scalp build up, balance scalp oils, and maintain ideal moisture levels.

Key ingredients:

• Tea tree oil
• Peppermint oil
• Silk and chamomile

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Propanediol, Acrylates Copolymer, Hydrolyzed Silk, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Glycol Distearate, Steareth-4, Glycolic Acid, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Methylisothiazolinone, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides.

CHI Tea Tree Oil Conditioner ($22.22 for 11.5 oz. from CHI & CHI Amazon Store): This is a lightweight and refreshing conditioner that offers relief for dry, itchy scalp, and will help to treat dandruff. Since I do not have any of these particular issues, I simply use it whenever I use the shampoo since they work so well in tandem. The Tea Tree and Peppermint Oils refresh and invigorate the scalp and awaken the senses, and for this reason this conditioner is especially refreshing when used in a morning shower.

According to CHI,

The Tea Tree Oil Conditioner is a refreshing lightweight conditioner that provides a refreshing and awakening sensation while helping to normalize and balance scalp oils to relieve dry scalp. The conditioners blend of tea tree oil and peppermint oil work together to remove impurities and excess scalp build up, balance scalp oils, and maintain ideal moisture levels promoting optimal hair health.

Key ingredients:

• Tea tree oil
• Peppermint oil
• Silk and chamomile

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dicetyldimonium Chloride, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Propanediol, Polysorbate 60, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Hydrolyzed Silk, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, C12-16 Pareth-9, C11-15 Pareth-7, Trimethylsiloxyamodimethicone, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Amodimethicone, Cetrimonium Chloride, Trideceth-8, Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Polyquaternium-37, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, PPG-1 Trideceth-6.

CHI Tea Tree Oil Soothing Scalp Spray ($20.40 for 3 oz. from CHI & CHI Amazon Store): This is a very refreshing and nourishing spray that smoothes hair, soothes and moisturizes dry, itchy scalps and gives hair a luscious shine.

According to CHI,

Refreshes your scalp and hair with nourishing moisture. Using a combination of tea tree and peppermint oil, this spray works to balance your natural, and necessary, hair oils while delivering a boost of hydration. This soothing spray also instantly relieves itching, irritation and dryness.

Features:

• Refreshes and nourishes
• Balances natural hair oils
• Delivers moisture
• Relieves itching, irritation and dryness
• Formulated with tea tree and peppermint oil

Spray CHI Tea Tree Soothing Scalp Spray directly on to the scalp where needed to soothe itching and irritation. Do not rinse.

Key Ingredients & Benefits:
• Tea Tree Oil – Natural antioxidant unclogs pores and removes build up while replenishing moisture to soothe and condition the scalp.
• Peppermint Oil – Provides a refreshing and awakening sensation while helping to normalize and balance scalp oils to relieve dry scalp.
• Silk – Replenishes moisture while adding strength and shine.
• Chamomile – Protects and maintains hair’s strength and resilience, building a natural layer of resistance to damaged.

Overall Assessment: This is a great range to cleanse the scalp, remove product buildup, and to provide thermal protection. If you have dandruff, then this may be a good option for you as well.

Press Sample (Affiliate Links). All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2025 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

The Beauty & Style Spotlight Team Welcomes May

Want to know which products are worth purchasing? Then Check out Lola's Secret Beauty Blog's Empties post from April 2025! All of these products are definitely worthy of your attention!

In April, Allison from Never Say Die Beauty had an opportunity to select a Sephora VIB member’s birthday gift. From several options, she chose a lip duo from Makeup by Mario. Check out her choice and see what you think!

It’s fun to dress up to go out for Mexican food and drink on Cinco de Mayo. Angie from Your True Self Blog has collected the style elements here to help you create your own Cinco de Mayo-style outfit for your fiesta!

Marsha from Marsha in the Middle isn’t one to set goals, make resolutions, or even bucket lists. But, a reverse bucket list is another thing entirely. Check it out here.

Barbie’s Beauty Bits discusses an all-on-4 implants that offers a secure, full-smile solution using just four implants.

Credo Beauty 20% Off Sale Sitewide!

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Credo Beauty is having a wonderful 20% Off Sitewide Sale now through Sunday, May 4. No code is required. Free Shipping on orders over $35.00. Available to all US residents through Sunday, May 4 at 11:59PM PT.

Visit: www.credobeauty.com

Bergdorf Goodman Beauty Gift with Purchase: Woven Cosmetic Bag Filled with Goodies

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Bergdorf Goodman Woven Delight Beauty Gift with Purchase, from April 27th- May 11th, receive this complimentary gift* with any beauty purchase of $295 or more.

Includes assorted samples from the following brands:

111Skin, Augustinus Bader, Chantecaille, Dr. Barbara Sturm, Ex Nihilo, Finest Accessories, Guerlain, Hermès, La Mer, Marc-Antoine Barrois, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Natura Bissé, Oribe, Retrouvé, ReVive, Sisley-Paris, Sulwhasoo.

*Your gift with any qualifying beauty purchase of $295 or more, while supplies last. Offer ends 5/11/25 10 PM CST. Quantities limited. Offer online and in-store. Online offer may vary. Qualifying items will be designated on the site; some exclusions apply. For online orders, a gift will be automatically added at checkout if available and shipped at the time of your order; one gift per order, per customer, while supplies last. The value of your beauty order must total $295 before shipping & tax. Does not apply to previous purchases.

Visit: www.bergdorfgoodman.com