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Cosmetics

Strategic merger positions Brazilian brands Skala and Lola from Rio for global expansion

by Lina Clémence June 19, 2025
written by Lina Clémence



Brazil’s beauty and personal care market is projected to generate a revenue of $28.16 billion in 2025, with an anticipated annual growth rate of 4.86% between now and 2023, according to market research firm Statista.

Within this landscape, Skala has emerged as a category leader in hair treatment creams, while sustainable hair care brand Lola From Rio has built a loyal following with its creative marketing and vegan product formulations.

With backing from private equity firm Advent International, the two brands are strategically aligning their operations to boost scale, expand distribution, and accelerate innovation, while maintaining their individual brand identities and respective clean beauty mindsets.

Domestic and international growth strategy

The strategy behind the merger is to align each brand’s complementary capabilities in both the domestic and international personal care product markets.

“Domestically, the integration with Lola From Rio provides highly complementary sales channels, allowing us to optimize market reach and penetration for both brands,” Rafael Patury, Chairman of the Board of the group, told CosmeticsDesign US.

In the international personal care landscape, he continued, the brands’ plan is to focus on leveraging their respective growth trajectories to “implement [their] extensive experience, infrastructure sharing, and benchmarking initiatives, further accelerat[ing] global expansion and market leadership.”

Infrastructure and logistics optimization

With a new production facility in Uberaba and a US-based distribution center set to come online, Advent is focused on unlocking operational efficiencies at scale.

“We are prioritizing the optimization of our integrated logistics network,” said Patury. As a result of the merger, Skala’s four global distribution centers will be combined with two additional facilities currently utilized by Lola, he confirmed.

Through this larger distribution network, he continued, “we aim to be able to enhance our supply chain efficiency to serve our customers more effectively and support the new group’s substantial scale gains.”

With Skala’s products already distributed in 82 countries and Lola in 40, the integration also opens new opportunities for international growth.

“Leveraging Skala’s established presence in 82 countries… presents a significant opportunity for accelerated global market penetration,” Patury said.

“Our key target markets for expansion include the US, Europe, and Latin America,” he confirmed, “where we will adapt our product offerings and marketing strategies to meet specific regional consumer expectations.”

Balancing innovation with brand autonomy

The combined company plans to pursue innovation through collaboration while maintaining brand distinctiveness.

“While commercial and marketing operations for both brands will maintain a degree of strategic autonomy to preserve their distinct market positioning, we anticipate significant cross-functional knowledge transfer and collaborative experience sharing,” Patury explained.

“This approach will foster synergistic innovation opportunities within our product development pipeline,” he added, “allowing each brand to boost its productivity and market responsiveness while leveraging collective insights.”

Preserving each brand’s creative DNA

Known for its irreverent tone and bold formulations, Lola From Rio will continue to operate with creative independence under the new structure.

“Lola’s unique voice and agility will be preserved through operational independence, particularly within our commercial and marketing functions,” said Patury.

“The existing leadership team that has driven Lola’s success will continue to lead the brand within the combined group, and Lola’s founders will remain involved and significant shareholders,” he explained, adding that “this commitment to continuity ensures the brand’s core essence and creative spirit remain intact.”

Sustainability is a central element of the group’s innovation and branding strategy, as both brands are recognized for their ethical ethos.

“Lola’s leadership in conscious beauty will significantly influence the new group’s shared innovation and brand strategies by fostering a unified commitment to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing,” Patury said.

“Both Lola and Skala share a fundamental commitment to vegan and cruelty-free principles,” he concluded, “along with a focus on leveraging Brazilian heritage in product development to deliver high-quality solutions.”

Following the merger, Luis Delfim, current President of Skala, will serve as CEO of the new group, and Pedro Taguchi, COO of Lola From Rio, will continue to lead the Lola brand, Advent International‘s press release confirmed.


June 19, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

SHEET MASK | Teaology Matcha Tea Superfood Firming and Blemish Tea Glow AHA Sheet Mask | Cosmetic Proof

by Lina Clémence June 18, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


Press samples

I have been enjoying a much needed day off today as I just was not in the mood to work yesterday. And by that, I just mean that I wasn’t finding tasks that I normally enjoy as fun as usual. I always like to stay busy regardless of how I feel as standing/sitting around on my phone makes me feel mentally and physically worse so if I don’t feel like doing a mentally exhaustive task, I will switch to visual merchandising or organizing repairs or just flat out cleaning! I got up relatively early (thanks to Bustyboo) and ended up having breakfast and going for a 5km walk before noon! I have really been trying hard to get at least 10K steps/day and so far, I have been able to keep it up for a over a month! My Apple watch has been telling me what a good job I have been doing LOL!

I have reviewed Teaology sheet masks before back in 2021 (here) and it looks like things have improved since then so let’s dive right in!

FIRMING | Matcha Tea Superfood Mask*

Teaology Matcha Tea Superfood Firming Sheet Mask

What makes this mask special? Firstly, there is the face AND neck aspect which makes the Teaology series of sheet masks special as ALL of their sheet masks include both of these areas. The mask is also made of 100% biodegradable elastic cotton fibres. The essence contains actual matcha tea, which is full of antioxidants, as well as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide with all water coming from Teaology’s trademark tea infusion.

Teaology Sheet Mask Review

Ingredients: WATER(*), GLYCERIN, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 EICOSANEDIOATE/TETRADECANEDIOATE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL,TETRASODIUM GLUTAMATE DIACETATE, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, SODIUM HYALURONATE,CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF(MATCHA TEA)(*), NIACINAMIDE, CITRIC ACID, JUGLANS REGIA LEAF EXTRACT, JUGLANS REGIA SHELL EXTRACT, LECITHIN, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, PYRUS GERMANICA EXTRACT, TREHALOSE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, PALMITOYL TRIPEPTIDE-5, BETA-GLUCAN, HORDEUM VULGARE SEED EXTRACT. (*)TEA INFUSION

Teaology Face and Neck Sheet Mask

The fabric of the mask was very stretchy so pulling the two sets of ear loops over the ears was not a struggle. The print/weave was fun and reminded me of very fancy Charmin toilet paper! The only thing was disappointing was how dry the mask seemed as it did not seem to hold onto essence and there also wasn’t much essence left in the package for me to put on top. Granted, the results were positive so maybe I don’t need the mask to be soaking in essence? I think I am just spoiled by Asian sheet masks!

I will say that compared to the last set of Teaology sheet masks I reviewed, the fit felt more comfortable as the previous mask material was VERY thick and wasn’t the most comfortable to wear especially around the ears.

Teaology Face and Neck Sheet Mask

Mask Summary:

Price: $7.50 CDN

What it does: Tones, firms and regenerates skin

Scent: Slightly sweet, but otherwise very subtle

Essence Type: Clear, slightly viscous

Duration: 20 minutes

Thickness: Fairly thin and stretchy

Mask Fit: Plenty of coverage with some mask on the sides going well into my hair. I do feel like it may have fit better if the fibers absorbed more essence.

Tackiness: None

Hydration: Quite nice! I did not need any moisturizer and my skin had a very slight tack to it as if I HAD applied moisturizer! 

Other notes: N/A 

BLEMISH | Tea Glow AHA Sheet Mask*

Teaology Green Tea Niacinamide Blemish Sheet Mask

What makes this mask special? This has both BHA (salicylic acid from willow bark) and AHA from pineapple, lemon and blueberry extracts. It also contains Teaology’s signature white tea infusion.

Teaology Green Tea Niacinamide Blemish Sheet Mask

INGREDIENTS: AQUA/WATER/EAU(*), GLYCERIN, NIACINAMIDE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 EICOSANEDIOATE/TETRADECANEDIOATE, TETRASODIUM GLUTAMATE DIACETATE, VACCINIUM MYRTILLUS FRUIT EXTRACT, SALIX NIGRA BARK EXTRACT, ANANAS SATIVUS FRUIT JUICE, SACCHARUM OFFICINARUM EXTRACT, SODIUM HYALURONATE, CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS FRUIT EXTRACT, CITRUS LIMON FRUIT EXTRACT, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, ACER SACCHARUM EXTRACT, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF(GREEN TEA)(*), CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT. (*)TEA INFUSION

Teaology Green Tea Niacinamide Blemish Sheet Mask

Mask Summary:

Price: $7.50 CDN

What it does: Regulate sebum production, minimize the appearance of pores, improve skin texture

Scent: Slightly sweet, but otherwise very subtle

Essence Type: Clear, slightly viscous, but again not very much left in the packet

Duration: 20 minutes

Thickness: Fairly thin and stretchy

Mask Fit: Plenty of coverage with some mask on the sides going well into my hair. I do feel like it may have fit better if the fibers absorbed more essence.

Tackiness: None

Hydration: Decent though with this mask I did feel like I needed a bit of moisturizer on top.

Other notes: The ear loops felt a bit looser than the previous mask and looked almost like they were disintegrating? I also felt a teensy bit more sensitive towards the end of the 20 minutes so I think all of this has to do with the presence of AHAs. 

Teaology Sheet Mask Review

Final verdict: I definitely enjoyed the results more with the new upgraded masks and though I was doubtful of the masks at first because of how little essence there was, I was very happy with the results and would love to try the other masks available especially the one for glow! 

You can find the Teaology Sheet Masks at London Drugs or teaologyskincare.ca!


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June 18, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

Sagging Skin? Wrinkles? Best Firming Creams & Skincare Products

by Lina Clémence June 17, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


How to treat sagging skin

If you’re past age 30, perhaps firming creams have been on your mind. It’s a fact of life that everything changes with time, including our skin. While most of us got used to a dewy, healthy glow and plump, toned complexion in our teens and 20s, everything changes as we approach our 30s and beyond. 

One of the most challenging aspects of the aging process is when taut skin starts to sag. While there’s no such thing as a miracle product that can reverse the loss of tone, there are skin tightening creams on the market that can help improve skin laxity. 

Not sure what to look for in a firming face cream? No worries. Here at the Derm Review, we’ve reviewed hundreds of products with a scientific lens to ensure you’re creating a skincare regimen that’s safe and effective. Ahead, 11 of the best skin firming creams and face tightening creams to help you restore a more youthful-looking complexion.

Best Firming Creams for Sagging Skin: The List

BEST OVERALL

BEST TREATMENT: Carrot & Stick Repair Serum, $80

BEST CREAM: Carrot & Stick The Moisturizer, $60

 

FULL LIST

Formulyst Lifting and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream, $80

Chanel Le Lift Cream, $165

Estee Lauder Resilience Lift, $99

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter, $162

La Prairie Anti-Aging Night Cream, $255

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Hydra-Firm Night Cream, $40

Clarins Extra-Firming Wrinkle Control Firming Day Cream SPF 15, $88

Dior Capture Totale Multi-Perfection Creme, $70-$110

StriVectin -AR Advanced Retinol Intensive Night Moisturizer, $79

The Science Behind Firming Creams

Firming the skin comes down to stimulating collagen production. Starting around the age of 25, collagen production declines at a rate of approximately 1% each year. Since collagen is the component that gives the skin structure, it progressively becomes less firm and saggier as we get older. 

When we reach our early 50s, collagen production ceases, and any existing collagen that remains gradually breaks down and becomes weaker, exacerbating skin laxity. There’s also elastin to consider because it gives the skin its elasticity — or bounce. It’s around a thousand times more flexible than collagen. Together, collagen and elastin are the main structural protein components of the skin.

The best firming creams have something in common: ingredients that can help stimulate collagen and elastin production — although some products suitably deliver these compounds into the skin better than others. Even so, don’t expect your skin to go back to what it used to look like in the past.

Best Skin Tightening Cream Ingredients

  • Retinol: When it comes to the best firming face cream over-the-counter, vitamin A (retinol) is the most effective (OTC) ingredient for stimulating collagen production to firm up the skin because it directly stimulates our skin cells. 
  • Peptides: These messengers help keep the firm and smooth by communicating with your skin cells to do a specific job. The first peptide to be developed stimulates collagen, so they are often found in firming creams to improve elasticity and firmness while strengthening the skin. 
  • Antioxidants: Certain antioxidants like B3 (niacinamide), E, and coenzyme Q10 neutralize free radicals (sun exposure, pollution, cigarette smoke) that can lead to the breakdown in collagen, while vitamin C may stimulate it. 
  • Alpha-Hydroxy Acids: AHAs stimulate collagen production and firm the skin, among several other benefits.

What to Expect from a Firming Face Cream

Creating new collagen doesn’t magically happen by applying a topical cream, so don’t expect miracles. Even the best face moisturizer or firming face cream in the world can give you the same results as a cosmetic procedure. However, with consistent, daily use, a face tightening cream can provide a temporary tightening effect to help make sagginess less noticeable.

 

Woman with firm skin smiling

Best Firming Creams for Sagging Skin

Best firming face cream for sagging skin? You may already have a lot of the best skincare products, but we’ve got 11 top picks to address laxity.

BEST OVERALL

Carrot and Stick Repair Serum, $80
Apply this anti-aging serum daily to keep skin hydrated and protected from free radical damage. The Repair Serum by Carrot & Stick helps lift, tighten and firm the look of skin thanks to seven plant-based neuropeptides, while synthesized growth factors help keep skin looking radiant. It’s the best anti-aging serum for 30s — and beyond.

Carrot & Stick The Moisturizer, $60
Say goodbye to lax skin with the plant-powered The Moisturizer. It helps to hydrate, firm, and revitalize the skin. Suitable for all skin types, The Moisturizer from Carrot & Stick is formulated with plant proteins, vitamins, peptides and amino-collagen. A caffeine boost helps perk up lax skin, while five distinct coconut elements help with cell renewal and overall conditioning. We recommend using Carrot & Stick Repair Serum as the first step in your skin tightening routine. Serums penetrate deeper and contain a higher concentration of active ingredients. 

 

FULL LIST

Formulyst Lifting and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream
Wrinkles and sagging skin are no match for Formulyst’s Lifting and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream. The rich cream is formulated with a powerful blend of botanicals and lipids to help keep the signs of aging at bay. Moringa seed oil delivers intense hydration, while evodia ruteacarpa fruit extract brightens and refines the complexion. Rounding out the ingredients list is peony extract which helps leave the skin looking smoother and firmer.

Chanel Le Lift Cream
This key ingredient in this firming face cream is dicaffeoylquinic acid, or 3.5-DA, derived from the Edulis morning glory. Chanel researchers labored for 12 years to isolate this potent extract that promotes collagen synthesis to improve skin elasticity. 

Estee Lauder Resilience Lift
This lightweight anti-aging moisturizer sculpts, contours, plumps, and lifts, thanks to Estee Lauder’s advanced Photo-Activated Lift Complex. Plankton extract and Thermus thermophilus ferment strengthen the skin, provide deep hydration, and protect fibroblasts — the cells that produce collagen — against free radicals. 

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter
SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter seeks to reduce damage from advanced glycation end products, or AGEs, resulting from excess sugar that negatively impacts collagen and elastin, causing the skin to sag. 

This firming cream helps counteract collagen and elastin loss with potent ingredients like proxylane, blueberry extract, and phytosphingosine. Pro Xylane helps support the skin’s glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis. GAGs like hyaluronic acid keep skin plump, firm, and hydrated. 

La Prairie Anti-Aging Night Cream,
La Prairie is known for its luxurious formulations, and this firming face cream is no exception. The main ingredients that address the loss of tone are peptides. Hexanoyl dipeptide-3 norleucine acetate is a synthetic peptide that helps overall skin renewal, accelerating the speed at which cells renew to reveal a more refined complexion. Palmitoyl tripeptide-8 soothes by reducing inflammation, while acetyl decapeptide-3 stimulates collagen and elastin to firm, tighten, and sculpt the skin. 

StriVectin-AR Advanced Retinol Intensive Night Moisturizer, $79
Retinol is one of the best ingredients to help improve elasticity, tone, and texture. However, it can cause the skin to be irritated — especially those who are sensitive. The good news is this firming cream is formulated with StriVectin’s patented NIA-114 technology to help lessen any potential irritation associated with retinol. Thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid, copper tripeptides, and plant lipids, you’ll wake up with a more radiant, supple, and toned complexion.

Best Lifting and Firming Face Cream: The Bottom Line

Use a serum as part of your anti-aging routine. Serums penetrate deeper and contain a higher concentration of active ingredients. We recommend Carrot & Stick Repair Serum. Followed by Carrot & Stick The Moisturizer. We recommend Carrot & Stick’s Lift & Smooth routine as it contains both products.

A caffeine boost, peptides, and amino-collagen help perk up lax skin, while five distinct coconut elements help with cell renewal and overall conditioning.

Firming the skin comes down to stimulating collagen production. Starting around the age of 25, collagen production declines at a rate of approximately 1% each year. Since collagen is the component that gives the skin structure, it progressively becomes less firm and saggier as we get older. 

When we reach our early 50s, collagen production ceases, and any existing collagen that remains gradually breaks down and becomes weaker, exacerbating skin laxity. The best firming creams have something in common: ingredients like retinol, peptides, antioxidants, and alpha-hydroxy acids that can help stimulate collagen and elastin production.

What’s the best firming face cream, in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below!

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about firming creams.

 

FAQs

While the natural aging process is responsible for collagen loss, the sun is one of the biggest culprits of sagging skin. Over time, prolonged exposure to the sun’s damaging rays breaks down the elastin in the skin and weakens it. Think of it as a rubber band that has lost its bounce-back quality and has started to sag and droop.

Also, as we get older, our skin loses its ability to retain moisture, so it becomes drier. Significant weight loss and medications such as steroids can also lead to crepey-looking skin. Environmental and lifestyle factors also wreak havoc on the skin. The degradation of elastin is also accelerated by a poor diet, alcohol consumption, inadequate sleep, and smoking.

As the saying goes, necks don’t lie. Loss of firmness is often seen on the neck and décolletage first, as the skin is thinner.

Gravity doesn’t help either, especially as most of us spend hours hunched over screens, which can also lead to “tech neck.” The neck also contains fewer oil glands than other parts of the body, which means it doesn’t get as much moisture naturally.

The best firming and tightening creams take a multi-prong approach. First and foremost, they are powerful moisturizers because adding a good dollop of moisture to the skin gives the skin a plumper, fuller look. The added hydration makes fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable.
Some firming creams contain caffeine to restrict or tighten the skin, which gives it a temporary “lift.” Other products rely on skin exfoliators to create a smoother-looking surface and minimize the appearance of fine lines.
Some firming creams are packaged in tubes with roller ball massage applicators to help stimulate circulation and boost skin smoothing effects.

Retinol is the gold standard ingredient for tightening the skin from the outside in. It’s the most potent over-the-counter ingredient that helps build collagen and elastin, resulting in tighter, smoother skin.

A well-formulated firming cream can make noticeable improvements. However, the reality is, even the best firming face cream or skin tightening cream will not provide the same results that can be achieved from medical procedures such as lasers, chemical peels, IPL (intense light therapy), radiofrequency, or thermal skin tightening.

Laser resurfacing is the most effective procedure for tightening loose skin. However, it requires 5-7 days of downtime, unlike other laser treatments. Laser resurfacing also provides the fastest results.

Some DIY home mask recipes for skin tightening include pure aloe vera gel, egg whites and honey, ground coffee and coconut oil, and rosemary oil mixed with cucumber paste.

Just because you’re using a topical firming face cream doesn’t mean you can’t work on your skin from the inside out. To help tighten loose skin, including vitamin C- and zinc-rich foods, garlic, tomatoes, bell peppers, and egg whites.

Sources:
“Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin,” US National Library of Medicine National Center for Biology.
“An anti-aging skincare system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin,” US National Library of Medicine National Center for Biology.
“Photoaging: What You Need to Know About the Other Kind of Aging,” Skincancer.org.




June 17, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

Yay or Nay? Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Serum

by Lina Clémence June 16, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


You’ll have to excuse me – I meant to post about this weeks ago, but the thing is… I have a system. I test a product, I write about it, I stop using it so I can start testing the next shiny serum in my lineup – rinse, repeat, glow (or not).

But then Shiseido Ultimune came along and totally messed with my skincare commitment issues. I didn’t want to stop using it, so I just… didn’t post. No post, no reason to move on, right? (Think like: “If I don’t define the relationship, I can still text my ex.”)

 

Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Serum – 50ml – $150, 75ml – $195, 75ml refill – $172 – This powerhouse boosts your skin’s resilience against aging and environmental damage, while serving up hydration, glow, and smoothness like it’s hosting its own Canada’s Got Talent variety show. 

 

The silky-smooth formula is basically a botanical Avengers team-up with high-tech backup, featuring:

Fermented camellia flower extract – bringing over 14 amino acids to the party to power up skin regeneration like it’s chugging collagen lattes for breakfast; Camellia seed oil – the moisturizing MVP; Camellia leaf extract – helps suppress inflammation like a therapist with a skincare license; Heart leaf extract – sounds cute, works hard, boosts skin immunity and restores rhythm (Beyoncé would approve); and of course, the brand’s own ULTIMUNE complex – like a bodyguard for your skin, slowing the aging cycle and leaving your face looking healthy, happy and suspiciously well-rested.

 

Now listen, I try a lot of serums. For most of them, I talk about texture, scent, and what they say they’re supposed to do, because I’m usually on to the next one faster than a Love Island contestant in week 2 (who are we kidding, DAY 2). But Ultimune had me locked in. I kept using it longer than I typically do, but – plot twist – I didn’t even have to, I actually saw results within a couple of weeks: more radiance, smoother texture, deeply hydrated skin and dare I say it, the fine lines around my nose? Practically ghosted me! 

 

So is it a Yay or Nay? 

 

It’s a Hallelujah, take my money YAY!

 

Bonus round: when I’m ready for a top-up, I don’t have to rebuy the whole fancy bottle. There’s a refill that saves money and the planet – and if that’s not self-care-meets-sustainability, I don’t know what is! 

 

 

– Lisamarie – 




June 16, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

Product Review: Londontown Nail Polish

by Lina Clémence June 15, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


Hi framily, I’m baaaack with a beauty product review! This time around I’m sharing my thoughts on Londontown Lakur nail polish.  This was my first time learning about Londontown products, so I was excited when they sent me some products to review. 

I try my best to use clean beauty products when possible, so it was refreshing to learn that Londontown nail polish in 9-Free, which means they dont contain: Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, TPHP, Acetone, Ethyl Tosylamide, Xylene, DBP, Toulene,  and Camphor Vegan. So we’re keeping our beauty products like our circle of friends… toxin-free! These products are actually certified by PETA–yasss!

Londontown Kur Gel Genius Top Coat  & Base Coat

londontown-kur-gel-base-coat-gel-top-coat-product-review-nail-polish-9-free-vegan-beauty-black-yoga-mom

The  Londontown Kur Gel Genius Base Coat only needs one layer before applying the lakur colour and is a great way to extend your manicure . The Kur Gel Genius Top Coat is activated by natural light, so no need for UV lighting and it gives a high-shine, glossy finish.  It’s also fast-drying, which is a major bonus.

Londontown Lakur Enhanced Colour in the Shade Iconic 

 londontown-lakur-iconic-product-review-nail-polish-9-free-vegan-beauty-black-yoga-mom 

The Londontwon nail polish shade, Iconic, was an instant favorite of mine. Let me tell you–this nail polish color is definitely appropriately named because it stands out in a crown and is gorgeous!  It’s a vibrant, electric blue shade that is perfect for summer.  It looks fantastic against my darker complexion and has been my go-to summer shade (which is a big deal since I usually keep it simple with white on my toes!).

Londontown Lakur Enhanced Colour in the Shade Vendetta 

londontown-lakur-vendetta-product-review-nail-polish-9-free-vegan-beauty-black-yoga-mom

I felt like a full-fledged diva wearing the Londontown nail polish shade, Vendetta. It’ a poppy red that’s an instant summer banger when it comes to poppin’ nail colors and it will definitely be in heavy rotation for summer pedis.

Final Thoughts on Londontown 

londontown-product-review-9-free-vegan

I’m usually an in-salon gel mani kinda girl, but I think this is a great option for those in-between times.  I did experience some chipping on my toenails after about 4 days,  not sure if it’s because of my strenuous yoga and HIIT workouts or what, but it was easy to touchup. 

You can shop all of these products here. 

Have you tried Londontown nail products? What are you favorite shades? 

Ciao Bellas, 


June 15, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

Full Body Reset with the CurrentBody Infrared PEMF Mat

by Lina Clémence June 14, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


This post is sponsored by CurrentBody

I first became curious about PEMF therapy after learning about the effects it can have on muscle recovery. While I am not an athlete of any kind, I do work a physical job on my feet.

As a 41 year old full time makeup artist, I stand for many hours at a time, often on hard floors, and by the end of a long day, as much as I love my job, my body hurts. As I look to the future, I hope to do this job for another 20 years if I can.

I have struggled with tendonitis in my right wrist and overall fatigue, feeling pretty wiped out after a large wedding party or a long 10 hour commercial shoot day.

As I often worry that my physical body won’t keep up as long as I want it to, I’ve started looking for ways to keep myself in the game, both mentally and physically.

I recently got to try out a PEMF mat thanks to CurrentBody, my go to source for any type of beauty device.

CurrentBody Wellness Infrared PEMF Mat

What is PEMF Therapy?

PEMF stands for pulsed electromagnetic field therapy. This is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that uses pulses of electric current at a low frequency to energize the body’s cells.

The PEMF current can increase blood flow, increase oxygen delivery to cells, promote healing, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and can even assist with bone healing.

Simply put, these are like messages that tell your cells to do what they need to do.

PEMF therapy has been used both in humans and animals, particularly horses.

Alternating rows of amethyst and obsidian stones

CurrentBody Infrared PEMF Mat

The CurrentBody Wellness Infrared PEMF Mat contains 6 electromagnetic coils that deliver 9 PEMF intensity levels, 1-30 Hz, plus infrared heat 95-167˚F.

It also contains thousands of Amethyst and Obsidian stones to help with relaxation, circulation and heat retention.

PEMF Levels

Level 1-3: Relaxation, stress relief, and improving sleep.
Level 4-6: Muscle recovery, improved circulation, and mild pain relief.
Level 7-9: Deep tissue healing, joint pain relief, reduces inflammation.

PEMF Therapy Safety

While safe for most people, there are some individuals who should not partake in PEMF. 

Do not use a PEMF mat if you:

  • Have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
  • Are pregnant
  • Have cancer
  • Suffer from epilepsy 

How to Use the PEMF Mat

Unfold your mat where you plan to use it. It’s very heavy so you’ll want to make sure you have enough room before spreading it out.

Select your desired time (shown in hours), heat level shown in celsius and PEMF setting, ranging from 1-9.

Lay down, close your eyes and relax. You might choose to meditate or even fall asleep. I almost always end up falling asleep, even if I don’t plan to.

Of course you might prefer to do some reading, watch a show or scroll on your phone.

When you are done, wait until your mat is cooled down then fold it up.

My PEMF Mat Experience

I’ve been trying out this mat for the last 3 weeks, using it on a near daily basis. Here’s what I’ve noticed from my experience. 

I’ve mostly been using it after work, using my time on the PEMF mat to reset and recharge before dinner. I’ve been using the mat on settings 1 through 5 as I don’t currently need any extreme muscle repair.

On levels 1 through 3, I experienced the refreshing effects of a long nap in a much shorter time.

I’m not super proud to admit it, but I used to be a daily napper, and my naps were almost always 2 hours. After about 45 minutes of snoozing on the PEMF mat, I felt just as refreshed as I would from a nap, without the confusion or grogginess.

This is helping me save time, obviously, but also just feeling more reset and truly refreshed. Instead of feeling slow and out of it, I feel ready to take on a few additional hours of work or enjoyment. 

I feel warmth and relaxation while using it and haven’t experienced any tingling, dizziness or pain of any kind.

PEMF Mat Tips

Likely due to the amount of crystals and stones embedded into the mat, the CurrentBody Wellness Infrared PEMF Mat is quite heavy. For this reason, and to protect your back, I recommend storing somewhere low, like under a bed, so you can just slide it out when you’re ready to use it.

I suggest storing it in the room you’re most likely to use it. For some, that may be your bedroom, for others, perhaps a home gym for post workout recovery.

Because of the trifold nature of the mat, you can fold it into a seated position and still get the benefits while sitting upright. This could be nice for more active relaxation like watching a show or reading a book.

For even more active PEMF therapy, you can do yoga poses or stretches while on your mat. 

A small pillow is nice if you plan on taking a PEMF nap. There’s room for it at the top of the mat where the logo is, without covering any of the mat’s main area.

Practice the concept of “habit stacking” by doubling up on your device. I often start out my PEMF mat therapy wearing my CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask.

Habit stacking with my CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask

Will I Continue PEMF Mat Therapy?

Being that I am only beginning my prime wedding season as a makeup artist, you bet I will. I have a feeling I’m going to be looking extra forward to my PEMF naps after every Saturday wedding. 

Those types of jobs require me to get up super early, talk the entire time and be high energy for 4-6 hours at a time. The older I get, the more it wipes me out and now I have a tool to help combat it. 

CurrentBody Discount Code

If you feel like you could also benefit from a PEMF mat, CurrentBody has given us a generous discount. Use code IVYPEMF to save $120 off.

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June 14, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

Treating Dry Feet & Brittle Nails in Winter – Vanitynoapologies

by Lina Clémence June 13, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


Review, Price and Buy Online Moha Foot And Nail Cream

At this point I might start sounding like a broken record but I can’t stop saying it..I love winters! The weather is cozy, you get all your favourite festivals around this time, your home looks pretty and everything feels so much better. While I love everything about Winter, there is this teeny tiny problem of skin issues you get with the slight chill in the air. Well..not so teeny tiny but it’s quite manageable with the right skin care routine. And who are we, if not skin care experts! So I’m here to discuss dry hands and feet problems and how you can take care of it with just a little attention. I’m talking about this new brand I have been trying out for the last few months and loving the great results –  Moha. And Moha Herbal foot Cream and Nail Care Cream has been such a huge help.

moha-foot-nail-cream-review-price-buy-online

Product Claims:

Moha Foot Care Cream:

A herbal solution for beautiful feet. Moha: Herbal Foot Care cream softens, soothes and protects foot skin from getting damaged, from cracked heels and dry feet. It deeply nourishes, moisturizes and repairs skin in just 5-days.

  • Foot care cream enriched with aloe vera, papaya and peppermint
  • Specially formulated to give you smoother softer feet from 1st usage
  • Natural ingredients present provides intense hydration and protection
  • Unisex product, can be used by both, men and women

Moha Nail Care Cream:

  • Discover shiny, nourished and strong nails with moha: Nail Care Cream, powered with the goodness of Flaxseed oil and Almond oil
  • Almond oil, rich in Vitamin A & E softens and nourishes the cuticles, promoting nail health and nourishment to dry hands.
  • Flaxseed oil, full of essential nutrients like protein, iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium helps nourish & strengthen dry or brittle nails, thus preventing them from cracking. And also promotes healthy nail growth.
  • Creamy, Paraben-Free, Phthalate Free & Cruelty Free formula, perfect for manicure looking nails and hands.
  • Heals nail’s health from the damages caused by detergent, color etc. chemicals
  • Promotes healthy strength and growth

moha-foot-nail-cream-review-price-buy-online

Moha foot cream comes in a tube packaging with a flip-top cap. It is pale yellow in colour with a thick creamy consistency which is expected out of foot creams. The scent is exactly what it says on the packaging, a mix of minty and herbs. The scent can be a personal thing but if you have a thing for strong herbal scents then you will like it.

How I use Moha Foot Care Cream is I apply a thick layer on my feet and massage, till absorbed. Then I wear my socks and go to bed. I repeat it daily as my night routine. Within 2-3 days your feet will started feeling soft and nice. The peeling of skin which I always get around this time of the year was treated! It works wonders for your feet and treats even cracked and dry heels.

moha-foot-nail-cream-review-price-buy-online

Coming to Moha Nail Care Cream, the packaging caught my attention first. The labels and colouring looks like a cute painting, full points on that. The cream has a white colour with a thick creamy consistency. You only need a pea sized amount so it lasts long too. My nails are brittle and I often get sharp and dry cuticles. I started using this twice a day and it has helped quite a lot with healing the dryness.

moha-foot-nail-cream-review-price-buy-online

I use it as a hand cream too because let’s be honest, who has time to keep tabs on different products. It makes my hand very soft the next minute of application. If you get angry, dry and sore cuticles then you will like this cream a lot.

Overall the duo has made my life a lot easier. I don’t have to deal with pesky dry hands and feet now.

moha-foot-nail-cream-review-price-buy-online

Where to Buy it Online in India: www.moha.co.in  and all e-comm portals like Amazon, Nykaa, Flipkart, Smytten etc.

Price in India:

Foot Cream: Rs.140 for 50gm, Rs.250 for 100gm Here

Nail Cream: Rs.200 for 100gm Here

Have you used Moha foot and nail cream? Let us know your experience


June 13, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

Top Exercise Apps to Smash Your Fitness Goals

by Lina Clémence June 12, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


Top Exercise Apps to Smash Your Fitness Goals

















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Finding time for the gym isn’t always easy, but that doesn’t mean your fitness journey has to hit a roadblock. With the top exercise apps at your fingertips, you can bring the gym to you, offering a range of classes from yoga to HIIT, strength training, and more.

Whether you’re tracking your progress or squeezing in a quick 10-minute ab blast at home, these apps offer convenience and flexibility. While some come with free subscription, there are plenty of free-trial options to begin with that fitness buffs will adore.

Although you may not become a gymnast overnight (though there’s an app for mastering splits!) dedicating just a little time each day to realistic goals can make exercise a rewarding part of your life. You can bid adieu to gym pressure and hello to intuitive movement! When you set your own pace, you’re always leading the pack. With their tailored workouts, handy reminders, and virtual high-fives, they’re the secret weapon you’ve been searching for to turn your fitness aspirations into reality.

From audio-guide workouts to running-themed apps and relaxing yoga sessions, there’s something for everyone. Remember, fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choose workouts that excite you and align with your goals. After all, the best exercise is the one you enjoy!

Image via Alo Moves

SEE NEXT PAGE:
Finding Your Perfect Exercise App



 

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June 12, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

GIFT-ABLE BEAUTY THAT DOESN’T FEEL CRINGE TO GIVE

by Lina Clémence June 11, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


Giving beauty items can sometimes seem a little odd. But trust me — these are three  beauty and wellness gifts that won’t feel weird to give:

QURE LED

Everybody’s doing it (LED) so gifting your bestie the BEST LED MASK in the game makes perfect sense

QURE LED Light Therapy Mask is THEE comprehensive LED solution because it features 5 light colors: infrared, deep red, red, amber, blue — extending beyond just circulation and collagen production, BUT ALSO wrinkle reduction, collagen boosting, firming, hyperpigmentation correction and acne reduction.  QURE also pairs with an app that allows you to customize treatment. 

QURE LED Mask is my go-to for at-home, hands-free, anti-aging treatment. It’s a totally comprehensive LED solution: I’m talking wrinkle reduction, collagen boosting, firming, hyperpigmentation correction and acne reduction. 

With QURE LED Mask, in a 3-minute session, I can treat acne, fade hyperpigmentation, soften fine lines and boost collagen — all while I binge my favorite show, or cook, finish getting dressed, whatever!

This mask is the one they want!

SOLAWAVE

The girls who get it get it and the girls definitely want this. 

Solawave delivers smoother, more radiant, more lifted skin. 

The device features :

red light therapy to promote radiant skin, reduce the look of wrinkles, and dark marks

blue light — to prevent breakouts & fade blemishes  

galvanic current — a safe, noninvasive form of energy used to help boost the absorption of serums and creams 

facial massage — to decrease skin bloat and enhance glow

therapeutic warmth — to aid in product penetration, boost glow, soften lines and increase firmness 

I’ve been using Solawave for over a year and I WISH someone had gifted me one soon!

SAUNA BLANKET

I own two and have loaned out my spare so many times. For this reason, a sauna blanket feels perfectly not weird to give as a holiday gift. If you know someone who suffers with aches, pains, poor muscle recovery — this blanket is phenomenal. In a 45 minute session you detox seven times more than traditional sweating. The blanket puts your body in a parasympathetic state (rest and digest), burns calories, increases blood flow and circulation, reduces inflammation, releases happy chemicals and leaves you feeling euphoric, helps with sleep, melts away stress, leaves skin soft and glowing and aids muscle recovery!


June 11, 2025 0 comments
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Cosmetics

Mother’s Day Gift Guide – The Small Things Blog

by Lina Clémence June 10, 2025
written by Lina Clémence


One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Eight. Nine. Ten. Eleven. Twelve. Thirteen. Fourteen. Fifteen. Sixteen.

When I think of Mother’s Day, I think about giving gifts that are less practical and more indulgent! From beautiful jewelry that makes her feel special to a matching pajama set, moms deserve to feel taken care of for all the love and energy they pour out for their families!

Discount Codes:

Maya Brenner: Discount code KATE20 for 20% off select bracelet styles + free Limited Edition Maya x Kate Travel Case with the purchase of orders of $350+  

Miranda Frye: Use code “Smallthings10” to get 10% off and free shipping

Rifle Paper Co: SMALLTHINGS20 for 20% off sitewide through May 17, 2025. The code excludes bedding, loungewear, bundles, gift cards, samples, sale items, and cannot be combined with other promotions.

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