Reviews - Beauty Collection Blog

Battle of the Fragrances: Kai & Leila Lou

January 4, 2012 By Kathleen N. Leave a Comment

I don’t know about you, but I have been hearing an awful lot about Kai and Leila Lou. For years, I have seen these brands in the press, read numerous articles in glossy magazines penned by beauty editors raving over them and have heard celebrities using the word “obsessed” to describe their devotion to these two wildly popular brands. Look them up on Beauty Collection’s website and you will see that both Kai and Leila Lou’s perfume oils have five star ratings and dozens of comments left by happy customers singing their praises.

I am going to dissect these two brands for you. Let me put them head to head, through numerous tests and judge them on multiple factors. I will describe the fragrances in detail, chronicle every pro and con about the formulas, and track performance of each product. Afterwards, you can take my data and use it to help you decide if one of these (or both!) fragrances is right for you. This all sounds super scientific doesn’t it?!

So for each brand I reviewed the perfume oil and a bath and body product. For Kai that was the Bathing Bubbles and for Leila Lou it was the Body Lotion. Let’s do this!

Kai

Kai creator Gaye Straza struggled for years to find a perfume that agreed with her, After a lot of frustration, Straza decided to make her own fragrance. Kai Perfume was inspired by her frequent vacations to the tropics in her youth, and the white exotic flowers she discovered and fell in love with during these trips. Kai’s delicate scent is intensely floral yet simple and elegant.

Kai Perfume Oil

I was super excited to get my hands on this perfume. For years I have been curious about it because of how popular it is. When you smell it in the bottle it smells so floral. Definitely not in a Grandma way though.This is a modern floral that starts with Gardenia but ends with a tropical smell. I can’t place it though. It just reminds me of the beach. The air and the sand, plants and sea. It’s all there. The tiny glass bottle is a has a roller ball applicator making it a cinch to apply and highly portable for touch ups. After application, it dried down into a creamy floral, and some Tuberose leaked out. The fragrance lasted throughout the day and when I went to bed at night, I could still smell it on my wrists.

The thing that I find most interesting about this fragrance is that even though it is a floral it is never overpowering. I have never met a floral perfume that I liked. I always felt like it entered the room before me and left way after I did. Plus I always felt like it was in my mouth or my husband was coughing and gagging, swiftly evacuating the bedroom after I sprayed myself. But not with Kai. Delicate is a great word for it. Delicate, floral and creamy

Kai Bathing Bubbles

Kai’s nourishing bubble bath is packed with moisturizing Vitamin E rich Argan Oil and naturally cleansing coconut and sugar derivatives which will leave your skin soft, supple and glowing. Your bath and skin will be fragranced with the same floral scent as Kai’s perfume oil. Personally, I loved the Bathing Bubbles. I actually used it as both a bubble bath and a shower gel. The formula did leave my skin feeling extremely smooth and hydrated and the scent was gorgeous. Not too strong but just enough so that the scent lingered on my skin throughout the day. The bottle is fairly large (16oz) and will last for some time.

Leila Lou

This irresistible fragrance was created by Rosie Jane Cosmetics. The light perfume oil is made with 100% essential oils. Leila Lou was meant to capture the alluring scent of freshness and innocence. With notes of Pear Blossom, fresh cut grass and Tangerine, the scent is unique, modern and clean.

Leila Lou Perfume Oil

I am new to this brand but have heard loads of positive things about tit since I started blogging for Beauty Collection. According to Leila Lou’s website, there are only three stores that carry the line in my state and I don’t frequent any of them, so I am not surprised I have never seen it. The glass bottle is slightly larger than Kai’s, but it’s the same roller ball style. When you smell Leila Lou straight out of the bottle you smell a clean scent that is mixed with a fruitiness. It smells really good! Once applied, it dries down and becomes more complex. You can smell floral behind the clean fruit smell. It’s a beautiful mix of fruit, floral and a soapy clean. The only thing that really bothered me about this oil was that it didn’t last long enough. Kai definitely beat Leila Lou in terms of performance but the brilliant thing is that the bottle is totally portable making it easy to reapply when needed.

Leila Lou Body Lotion

Leila Lou’s light body lotion contains 100% essential oils and naturally hydrating ingredients. Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil, Jojoba and Coconut Oil moisturize your skin while the scent of Leila Lou’s perfume oil fragrances your skin. Even though this was a very light formula, I loved the lotion. I used it all over my whole body and it kept me moisturized throughout the day. Layering the lotion with the perfume oil did help with the staying power of the fragrance.

Overall I am in love with both fragrances. They both have their own special qualities. The thing the I found unique about their coordinating bath and body products was that the fragrance translated well and the formulas were phenomenal. Too many times I have been disappointed by a perfume’s matching lotion or shower gel. Either the fragrance isn’t the same as the perfume or the formula is terrible. Drying lotions is the number one problem I find with perfumed body products. These did not disappoint though. I would highly recommend both brands and feel like they are universal scents. If floral based fragrances scare you, give Kai a try. It’s a fantastic perfume to ease into floral scents. Leila Lou was my favorite of the two. The clean scent is as perfect for day as it is for a night out.

So….have you tried either of these brands? What did you think? Do you have a favorite?

I hope all of my sweet readers have a happy and safe New Year! Thank you for your support in 2011, stay tuned to see what Beauty Collection brings you in 2012. It’s going to be beautiful!

Product: Kai Perfume Oil

Price: $49.00

Purchase: All Beauty Collection locations as well as beautycollection.com

Product: Kai Bathing Bubbles

Price: $36.00

Purchase: All Beauty Collection locations as well as beautycollection.com

Product: Leila Lou Perfume Oil

Price: $38.00

Purchase: All Beauty Collection locations as well as beautycollection.com

Product: Leila Lou Body Lotion

Price: $28.00

Purchase: All Beauty Collection locations as well as beautycollection.com

Filed Under: Bath & Body, Fragrance, Quotes We Heart, Reviews

[Review] LaLicious Sugar Souffle Scrub & Body Butter

December 8, 2011 By Claudia C. Leave a Comment

If you haven’t heard of Lalicious already, then grab your cup of cocoa and read on. LaLicious is an all-natural (paraben & sulfate-free) bath and body line, created by Jessica Kernochan. In 2002, Jessica had an idea to make body care gifts for friends (at home) for Christmas, which has developed into a 5500 sq.ft eco-friendly facility just to keep up with the demand from customers! Her ultra-moisturizing creations which include Whipped Body Soap, Body Oil, Sugar Souffle Scrub, and Body Butter come in a variety of scents, such as Tahitian Flower, Lily Mango, and Peppermint. Each product in the line helps in maintaining youthful, hydrated skin with deeply penetrating, nourishing oils such as coconut, almond, and Vitamin E Oil.

[Review]

I was lucky enough to try the Sugar Souffle Scrub and Body Butter in Sugar Kiss, a warm vanilla (almost frosting-like) scent. I had tried it out once before at a Beauty Collection in-store charity event and had put it on my must-try-more list! Needless to say, when my package arrived I ripped open the box and couldn’t wait to crack these babies open and take a sniff. Ahhh……a little bit of heaven, I’m telling you.

LaLicious Sugar Souffle Body Scrub – 16oz – $32

First off, this scrub is amazing, no joke. I am an exfoliation freak and have grown very picky on what I like. I love that this scrub is sugar based instead of salt, that means no stinging and less scratchy-ness. Because the winter has completely sucked the moisture out of my legs, I was in need of something that exfoliated, but at the same time moisturized. I used the scrub all over my body, but noticed how well it kept my legs moisturized after the shower–you can even use this stuff as a shave oil after the sugar crystals rinse off. I loved how I could just pat dry most of my body and off I could go. A perfect gift for someone who wants to stick with all-natural, paraben & sulfate-free products, or who loves scented body products. Sugar Kiss leaves behind a light vanilla sugar scent and can be intensified with the use of the body butter.

LaLicious Body Butter – 8oz. – $25

Lalicious Body Butter is super-thick, but spreads nicely and is non-greasy. Being able to take a scoop out and cover myself head to toe was wonderful! I’ve gotten so many compliments on how nice I smell in my office building, I only wish I had a travel body spray to keep in my car! (hint,hint LaLicious) Not to mention, boyfriend-approved. The shea butter and aloe made my winter legs feel like they can come out of hiding for while, due to the beautiful sheen they have now. This body butter is a true treat for pretty much anyone who comes in contact with it. You don’t need severely dry skin to enjoy this– you can enjoy this when you give yourself a manicure and pedicure (like I did) or even a mini-spa treat for yourself at home?

I’ve used both products for a couple days straight now and I will say that its not necessary to get everything–but with one sniff I know your going to want the entire line, because I do! I’ve already got my eye on some other scents (and for those of you concerned with overpowering scents, the coffee bean scrub rinses off right down the drain*) I “need” to buy, and plan to restock once I run out of one or the other. Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes. A Co-worker? Yes. Let’s just say I put LaLicious on my wish list for this holiday, and if Santa doesn’t bring it this year, someones making a trip out to the store.

Filed Under: Bath & Body, Gift Ideas, Reviews Tagged With: body butter, body moisturizers, coconut oil, lalicious, paraben-free, sulfate-free

[Review] philosophy: Lasting Hope Instant Refreshing Moisture Mask

October 27, 2011 By Chelsea R. 1 Comment

Cold winter weather dries out skin no longer, thanks to another wonderful creation by Philosophy. Created in 1996 by Cristina Carline, the Philosophy brand was introduced to the market. Knowing that not all can go to the dermatologist to pick up the latest creams and potions available, Cristina wanted to design a skincare line that was accessible, and effective for all. Bridging the gap between typical retail and medical grade products, philosophy is a brand that approaches personal care from a skincare point of view, while celebrating the beauty of the human spirit. Even the packaging follows the theme of simplicity and child-like creativeness with lower-case lettering and pictures that remind us to enjoy life and believe in miracles.

Hope in a jar is one of their most popular moisturizing collections, starting with the original product that started it all, hope in a jar . A really lightweight facial whip (yes, were talking an airy feel to it) that works heavy duty on dry skin (but also caters to normal and oily types as well). With the continuing success of hope in a jar, Philosophy knew they needed to add one more product to the line, a moisturizing mask. Lucky me, I was asked to review philosophy’s Lasting Hope Instant Moisture Mask (to be in Beauty Collection stores soon) and was looking forward to try it out.

REVIEW

Above is a picture of the actual product I received. I was very excited to try something that might help my dry but sensitive skin. To give you an idea of how dry my skin gets, lets just say that no matter what moisturizer I use, I always end up with dry,peeling skin mid-afternoon. I love how each of Philosophy’s product include a short quote to inspire us (daily)! The tube of Lasting Hope says,

“Hope is optimism. Let it fill your cup, and suddenly, even the dulls days seem a bit brighter.”

The directions indicate that you are supposed to use this mask once to twice a week. Sounds good to me–so for a couple of weeks I used it every three days–maybe a day early if my skin felt like it was lacking moisture. When I popped the lid open I instantly picked up the scent of lavender. I was pleased to find the mask had not only moisturizing affects, but would be calming with the lavender also. So after a long day at work I grabbed a glass of wine, a book, and made sure my face was squeaky clean. The tube says to apply a generous amount so I pushed out a large quarter sized blob and applied it into my skin.

The texture is unlike any other mask I have ever used. Being a semi-transparent gel, the mask goes on clear (hence no picture of it on) and feels very light and smooth. Since I usually look for intense moisturization, I’m used to very thick sticky masks. So I relaxed with my book, and waited ten minutes to wash it off. My skin felt soft, but not much different….at first. I realized this was a product that had cumulative results with ongoing use, and could feel my skin improve after every night I used it. I am very proud to say that I no longer have ANY peeling skin, and I’ve even gotten praises on how great my skin looks (and at the end of the day to boot!). If you have skin that stresses out in the middle of the week (or day like me), this is the mask you need to drench your skin with; replenishing it with the moisture that the harsh winter takes away.

Product: Philosophy’s Lasting Hope Instant Refreshing Moisture Mask

Price: $25.00

Purchase: Available soon at all Beauty Collection Store locations.

Filed Under: Reviews Tagged With: dehydration and skin, hydrating face mask, moisturizing face mask, Philosophy hope in a jar, Philosophy Lasting Hope, product review

[Review] Kerastase Nutritive Oleo-Relax Serum

October 19, 2011 By Candy D. Leave a Comment

Say good bye to bad hair days with Kerastase Nutritive Oleo-Relax Anti-Frizz Serum. Since 1964, Keratase has been making luxury haircare products designed to enhance your hair’s natural beauty. Known for their high quality haircare line, it is no surprise that Keratase prides itself on their work that is based on four values: performance, expertise, personalization, and beauty. Within the brand are different hair care collections, each that target specific hair types. The Kerastase Nutritive Oleo-Relax is part of the Nutritive line for dry, rebellious hair that needs to relax. Kerastase Oleo-Relax is a leave-in serum that replenishes and smoothes even the most dry and unmanageable hair by taming frizz, and locking out humidity. Your hair will be silky, shiny and softly under control.

REVIEW

Lightweight and hydrating are two words that come to mind with this serum. I like that it works in a couple of different ways, such as damp clean hair, dry second day hair, or anytime you are in need of a touch of shine. It also functions as a great de-tangling product. It detangles hair with cationic polymers, that condition and soften hair while Shorea and Palm Oils restore the hairs natural moisture level. After just one use,I was hooked on the glossy, frizz free shine!

A little goes a long way! 1-2 pumps is plenty. One thing to remind yourself is go easy on the application. As much as we all love shiny hair, serums are not meant to be applied from root to ends, in fact, it can create a greasy weighed down look! So remind yourself (as with any hair serum) to apply to the middle and ends of your hair,only–and avoid your roots. Although, different rules apply when used in styling or smoothing a sleek ponytail, a serum such as this can help tame shorter hairs at the hairline while keeping the pony sleek and flawless looking.

Keratase highlighted the use of two ingredients specifically; Palm Oil Extracts and Robusta Seed butter. I figured they must be something special to be included in such a effective product, so I looked them up. Palm Oil Extracts and Robusta Seed Butter do make this serum special, and it is very popular for people who have thick, dry, or curly hair. After using this amazing serum, I’m not sure how I will ever be able to leave home without it! It leaves your hair shiny, and even in the extreme humidity, it is able to tame frizz and flyaways like no other! It offers the perfect finishing touch for hair styling, providing a long lasting shine.

Product: Kerastase Nutrititive Oleo Relax Serum

Price: $38.00

Purchase: At all Beauty Collection Stores and www.beautycollection.com

Filed Under: Hair Care, Reviews Tagged With: Anti-Frizz, best hair serum, kerastase oleo relax, Palm Oil, Robusta Seed Butter, smoothing hair serum

[Review] Voluspa Santagio Huckleberry Gift Set

October 10, 2011 By Jazzy 1 Comment

Fueled by a love for art, fragrance and elegant illumination, Troy and Traci Arntsen created their first scented candle in their kitchen in 1999- the beginning point for Voluspa. Combining Traci’s expert nose, and knowledge of botany with Troy’s engineering technical background, the duo is credited with developing clean burning, fragrant candles that have created a whirlwind of interest within the industry. Voluspa’s creamy coconut wax blend enhances fragrance dispersion, burns ultra clean, and delights consumers world wide.

Voluspa created their own niche in the candle and home fragrance market with their striking packaging and extraordinary scents. Their home fragrance products have become a staple in the homes of Hollywood’s elite such as Demi Moore, Victoria Beckham, and Steven Spielberg. Regularly featured in editorial articles written for beauty, fashion and home magazines, Voluspa has become a household name.

This Santiago Huckleberry Gift Set includes: a fragrant oil diffuser (3.3 oz), travel candle (4.5 oz), and room spray (3.5 oz). Knowing what a treat I had coming in the mail, I sat anxiously awaiting the knock of the FedEx delivery man. When he delivered my package I was surprised at how large it was. I was so excited that I yelled “YAY!” when I opened the door, at which the man just looked confusedly at me. Feeling no embarrassment, I quickly shut the door and ran to my kitchen to grab a knife and unveil my new beautiful Voluspa home fragrance Set. Voluspa’s Santiago Huckleberry is a combination scent of rare Huckleberry mixed with vanilla pods and sweet sugar cane for a delicious and inviting scent.

I opened up the box and waved away the popcorn stuffing to see the most gorgeous, luxurious packaging of any home decor item I have ever owned. I was amazed at the intricate detail of the embossed black and lavender lace pattern across the box. In metallic silver lettering read:

“Designed By

VOLUSPA

Handmade Fragrant Indulgences for Home & Body“

I opened the box which safely housed a fragrant oil diffuser made of glass with the same beautiful embossed pattern as the packaging it was contained in. The box also beautifully displayed the matching candle, and large aromatic room mist. Of course, the first thing I did was open up the candle and inhale the heavenly scent of Huckleberry. Ahhh… It was everything I imagined it would be– and more!

After catching a whiff of candle, I was reassured (and happy) knowing that this would be a scent my husband would love as well. I uncorked the oil diffuser and made it the centerpiece on my dining room table;the main attraction of the room. Lastly, I took my room spray and finely misted the furniture and carpets. The scent filled my house and added that extra luxe to my everyday living.

Every time I have friends or family over I am showered with compliments, not only on the intoxicating scent filling the rooms, but the lovely design of my newest table center piece. Even when the oil has run out, the glass jar is something that I will continue to keep as a decoration. At such an affordable price of just $48 and free shipping, I would highly suggest this to anyone looking to add a touch of luxurious beauty, or anyone looking for a universally acceptable (and did I mention, wonderful) scent that everyone in the household will love.

Product: Voluspa Santiago Huckleberry

Price: $48.00

Purchase: Available in store and online at BeautyCollection.com

Filed Under: BC@HOME, Gift Ideas, Reviews Tagged With: candle scents, fragrance gift set, home fragrance, huckleberry santiago, voluspa, voluspa candles, voluspa diffuser

Battle of the Fragrances: Kai & Leila Lou

[Review] LaLicious Sugar Souffle Scrub & Body Butter

[Review]

[Review] philosophy: Lasting Hope Instant Refreshing Moisture Mask

REVIEW

[Review] Kerastase Nutritive Oleo-Relax Serum

REVIEW

[Review] Voluspa Santagio Huckleberry Gift Set

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