October 2018 Product Empties

October 30, 2018October 30, 2018 - Vicki Leave a comment

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

I really like DHC skincare & this cleanser is up there in my top 5 skincare products, I’ve used this cleansing oil for years and have found nothing removes my makeup quite as effectively. It melts away even stubborn mascara and removes lip-stains with gentle ease. I like to spend time really massaging it into my skin which is a great way to give yourself a mini at home facial (oils are so good to use as they make massaging the skin super easy). It is a good cleanser for protecting skin against environmental aggressors, is extremely gentle and leaves no greasy residue behind (which a lot of oil-based cleansers do). If you haven’t already tried this you really need to.

Olive oil – Rich in antioxidants, it helps fight damage caused by free radicals without clogging pores
Rosemary leaf oil – Extracted from the leaves of the plant, it contains invigorating properties and imparts a refreshing scent.

The Ordinary Buffet

I always feel like a scientist when I use products from DECIEM as they all come in very scientific looking bottles with intelligent sounding names & most of them have you dispensing the product using a dropper, I love it! I do use quite a lot of The Ordinary products in my skincare routine – I just love the affordable price point and I see real results in my skin. I have used up their Buffet this month and this is a serum that I really miss when I don’t have it in my skincare routine. It appears to be nothing special but let me tell you it is a wonderful serum with a multitude of benefits. This Peptide Serum is designed to tackle the signs of ageing and includes some really effective anti ageing ingredients including hyaluronic acid and Matrixyl 3000 (which is an anti-wrinkle peptide).

This serum is plumping, nourishing and will diminish those fine lines. I use this daily and love how lightweight it is on my skin. It is a great product to layer other skincare on top of and I think it is a must-have product for anyone worried about fine lines and a dull looking complexion. It is so affordable that you need to add it into your routine.

Hand Chemistry Pro Repair Skincare

I suffer terribly from dry hands and find that a lot of hand creams just put a greasy layer of cream on my hands but they never feel nourished and 10 minutes later they’re dry again. That was not true of this one from Hand Chemistry – this is so good at keeping my hands feeling supple and hydrated whilst the skin looks smooth and bright. I also like how it helps improve skin tone on your hands. It is a gem of a hand cream and I always have a 30ml one in my handbag & the 100ml one by my bedside.

Korres Black Pine Anti Wrinkle Serum

Although this serum had quite a sticky consistency and I wasn’t a big fan of that, I did like the results I saw from using it. I felt it really helped my skin look more firm, feel plump and hydrated whilst looking less tired. It contains some fantastic skin loving, anti ageing ingredients,

BLACK PINE EXTRACT & EPIGALLOCATECHIN Protects and strengthens connective tissue, firms and boosts connective tissue’s resilience, has strong anti-inflammatory properties combined with exceptional firming action as well as protecting against free radicals and collagenases.
HEXAPEPTIDE 11 THE 1ST NATURAL POLYPEPTIDE: Strong firming action, skin elasticity increase.
ACTIVE AGENT DERIVED FROM FERMENTED BLACK TEA: Restores the ‘volume’ of the skin, while providing radiance and luminosity, thus improving the overall appearance of the skin.
NATURAL OLIGOSACCHARIDES: Enhance elastin and natural hyaluronic acid synthesis and improve skin resilience.

Although I wouldn’t rush out & repurchase this serum again, I really did like it and if you’re 40+ you will really see the benefits. This product lasted me for almost a year and that was using it 3 times a week.

NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 1.00%

Another product from the DECIEM group and this is an interesting one as it is a product that really encourages your skins ongoing health and wellbeing. It promotes your skin to be the best it can be. When I use this my skin is more glowing and looks very healthy and fresh.

This CAIS helps to prevent and reverse largely all aspects of visible skin ageing, including textural damage, uneven pigmentation, loss of elasticity, lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores and general lack of a healthy radiance present in younger skin. In short, the skin will act and look younger starting within 5 days with continued improvements over time.

I don’t 100% understand all the science & ingredients included in this product but from the results I have seen I am 100% buying it again – if you want to learn more/understand what exactly goes into all the DECIEM products their website is a wealth of information and really breaks down all the percentages, active ingredients and makes the science jargon a little clearer. So I would direct you there.

Superdrug Naturally Radiant Glycolic Acid Pads

One of my favourite affordable exfoliating treatments. These pads are a godsend for lazy people like me. They already come soaked in the glycolic acid so all you need to do is sweep it across your skin as part of your skincare regime. The glycolic acid and fruit acids gently exfoliate away dead skin to reveal bright, radiant skin. You get 60 pads in a pot and they’re an affordable way of keeping your skin from becoming congested but also keeping it looking bright and refreshed. I am a huge fan of these and have repurchased them countless times.

60 pads soaked in a specially developed blend of Glycolic Acid & fruit AHA’s. Help to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin leaving it fresher. With witch hazel to help tone the skin and added Aloe & Pro Vitamin B5.

Previse Vitamin e Body Oil

This is quite a pricey product but it is a plant-based beauty brand and this range is entirely unscented, specially formulated with dermatologists, free of artificial fragrance and essential oils and is really popular amongst green beauty enthusiasts. I liked to apply this product after a shower, it comes in an easy to apply spray bottle so you can spray the oil on a targeted area. I used it mainly on my thighs and chest as that is where I have cellulite and very dry skin. It is very nourishing, smoothing and left my skin feeling soft and deeply hydrated.

Previse’s nourishing Bodymist Vitamin E Oil features silky and dry, eco-certified sunflower and botanical oil extracts for long-lasting non-greasy comfort. This plant-based body oil includes sustainably sourced oils that are naturally rich in vitamin E to promote supple, elastic skin.

nspa Expert Rejuvenating Serum

Another affordable brand that I really enjoy is nspa – they’re available exclusively in ASDA and they have a wonderful selection of skincare and body care. I really loved this Rejuvenating Serum which is part of their Expert Skincare Collection, and if you haven’t already guessed from the rest of the empty products in this post I like skincare that is for more mature skin, evens skin tone, plumps and helps my skin look radiant and this serum ticked all those boxes & for only £10 that is pretty amazing in my book.

This light-weight, effective formulation has been developed to support your skin. With a blend of anti-ageing actives including Crocus Chrysanthus Bulb extract and Millet Seed Extract, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and rejuvenate your skin. Reveal a radiant, smoother, firmer looking complexion and love your skin.

Beauty Product Empties July 2018

August 1, 2018 - Vicki 1 Comment

You can tell from my empties that July was a HOT month. I used up so many hydrating products – mostly for my face. I was trying so hard to stay cool and keep my skin hydrated. So there are quite a few products to talk about, let’s jump right into it.

Vaseline Cocoa Radiant Body Lotion

LOVED this. It is a very affordable body lotion, not heavy or greasy and sinks right into the skin. The lightweight lotion has a thin almost serum-like consistency which was really good especially in the Summer heat. It meant my skin didn’t feel sticky or like the lotion was too thick under my clothes. I would repurchase this 100%.

VICHY Idéalia Peeling

This toner is incredible for radiant skin – it is as if it just wipes away all the dullness and you wake up with a fresh, glowing complexion. I used this at least 2-3 times a week and this bottle lasted me months! This formula has a combination of 4% glycolic acid and 5% hepes, to provide an exfoliating effect whilst boosting cell turnover. So it is a great product if you find your skin is looking a little flat. This Idéalia is great and I really want to try more from it.

Superdrug Vitamin E Hydrating Face Mist

This is another warm weather must have skincare product! I have been misting it over my skin throughout the day in a bid to keep cool. You can mist on to cleansed skin before you apply makeup or you can spritz it on your skin to refresh your makeup and keep skin hydrated and refreshed. This Vitamin E Range from Superdrug is incredible value for money and I can’t recommend it enough. I love the Hot Cloth Cleanser, Oat Exfoliator and the Eye Cream – you can’t go wrong! This hydrating face mist contains soothing Aloe Vera as well as a skin conditioning multivitamin complex, comprising vitamins A, B, F and H, which, combined with horse chestnut extract, helps to care for dry skin.

Faith In Nature Deodorant

I have been using this Natural Deodorant for about 2 years now. It doesn’t stop me sweating but it neutralises the smell and contains no nasty ingredients. I hate the thought of applying a deoderant that is full of chemicals and metals right on my armpits where they’re easily absorbed into my body. This deodorant doesn’t block the sweat ducts but fights the odour & leaves my armpits feeling fresh & comfortable.

100% Natural Fragrance
With Essential Oils
Free from Parabens and SLS

Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic

How adorable is this mini bottle, I am gutted that it has run out. Over the past few (very warm) weeks I have been keeping this in my fridge so it is cool and refreshing on my skin, I have been using it in the evenings after I’ve cleansed just to refresh and calm my skin. This is the perfect refreshing Summer toner & I am going to have to purchase the full size – especially if this crazy heatwave continues.

Naturally, active ingredients include aloe vera to hydrate, calendula, chamomile and cucumber to soothe and refresh, plus antioxidant vitamin E. This revitalising toner is fragranced with an uplifting blend of pure essential oils, including rose-scented geranium, lavender and sweet orange.

Miller Harris Rose Silence (travel size) and Lumière Dorée

Over the past 3 years, Miller Harris has become my favourite luxury fragrance brand, their scents are simply stunning. no matter which of their fragrances I am wearing I always get compliments. In terms of staying power, they’re second to none – I very rarely have to spritz again throughout the day because the scent doesn’t fade. My absolute fave is Rose Silence and I have gone through so many bottles – including this travel size. I love this small size for my handbag or weekend breaks. The Lumière Dorée is a great unisex fragrance and I think it has a zesty, quite sweet scent but the musk makes it a little sensual and warm. If you are ever near a counter you must test out their range.

TOP NOTES: BERGAMOT, PETITGRAIN BIGARADIER EO, ORANGE BIGARADE
HEART NOTES: NEROLI BIGARADE MOROCCO EO, SAMBAC JASMINE, ORANGE BLOSSOM WATER
BASE NOTES: CASHMERE WOOD, VETIVER, CRISP AMBER, WHITE MUSK

Jurlique Activating Water Essence

This is that product you think you don’t need or think you don’t want to add another step to your skincare routine. Well, let me just say, you really do need it & it has become an essential step in my routine. So an Essence is not a toner, nope its used after both cleansing and toning, it can replenish moisture, balance skins PH levels and help skin look glowing. For me, it has 3 main benefits & I love to use it all year round. It is refreshing in the Summer & very hydrating in the Winter.

Hydrates – Delivers continuous hydration and lasting moisture
Conditions – Smooths skin to provide a soft, supple complexion
Revitalise – Revitalises and re-energises for healthy-looking skin

Soap & Glory Thick & Fast Mascara

This is a forever repurchase for me, it’s very affordable and I love the way it gives volume and makes my lashes look thick. You can either apply one coat for a more everyday look or really build it up, giving you more intense, bold lashes and the mascara doesn’t flake throughout the day which is epic! So many mascaras give me panda eyes.

*This post contains PR Samples

June 2018 Skincare Product Empties

June 13, 2018June 13, 2018 - Vicki Leave a comment

Garnier Nourishing Botanical Gel Wash

I bought this on a weekend break after discovering I had left all my toiletries at home, I just wanted something to get me through the weekend and that was pretty affordable as I had all my skincare at home. That being said I was actually very surprised by how much I liked this and I continued to use it when I got back home. It is good at removing makeup and as a morning cleanse. It is refreshing and considering it is a gel it doesn’t leave my skin feeling dry or tight. If you’re on a budget or see this on offer I highly recommend trying it.

Decléor Aromessence Neroli Amara Night Balm

If I had to describe this product in one sentence I would say it is the most nourishing, luxurious treat for your skin, EVER! This balm was a joy to use every night and I looked forward to this step in my skincare. It smells amazing just like an expensive spa. It melts into the skin and goes from a soft balm to a rich oil which makes it super easy to massage into the skin. It is the perfect hydrating pick me up for dull, dehydrated skin. It contains essential oils of:

Basil: purifying and healing withdrawing properties
Neroli: softening and hydrates
Camomile: preventive role in relation to the appearance of dark spots
Tonka Bean: act on the microcirculation and soften

I’m gutted it has run out and scraped every last drop out of the pot. I will for sure be treating myself to another pot ASAP.

Vichy Idealia Radiance Boosting Antioxidant Serum

This lasted me so long, I have been using it since January and I loved its lightweight hydrating formula as part of my morning skincare routine. I found it hydrated my skin and helped lock in moisture all day. It also gives the skin a protective layer to protect it against environmental aggressors.

Radiance is restored and dullness reduced
Skin texture appears smoother
Vichy Mineralising Thermal Water strengthens the skin against aggressors
Tested on sensitive skin under dermatological control
Hypoallergenic

It is such an easy product to slot into your routine and it gives great results. My skin looked healthy and felt super smooth.

B. Hydrated Hyaluronic Acid Spritz

I am a face mist/toner addict. I love how refreshing, hydrating and easy they are to use. I spritz them on to clean skin, on top of makeup to refresh my face and just sat at my desk to revive my skin throughout the day. This B. is for beautiful one from Superdrug was very affordable and I loved it. It contains Hyaluronic Acid which has become such an important ingredient in our skincare, especially if you have dry, dull skin. It helps lock in much-needed moisture.

Hyaluronic Acid – to moisturise deep down.
Boost skin’s radiance – Promotes a more healthy glow with regular use.
Soothes and relaxes – Perfect pick me up for tired, fatigued skin.

I’ve already repurchased this & I noticed they also do a vitamin version which is great for energising lacklustre skin, so I will be trying that one next. This B. is for beautiful, range is vegan and cruelty-free.

MERUMAYA Youth Preservation Moisturiser SPF20

This sample size lasted me so much longer than I thought, I took it on so many trips/weekend breaks. I don’t have many moisturisers with SPF which is a pain but this MERUMAYA one has SPF20 and that is perfect for a city break. This cream has such a rich nourishing formula without having a heavy, greasy texture. It hydrates and wears so well under makeup. It is another fab product from my favourite British Skincare brand.

Formulated with powerful, active ingredients in combination with SPF filters, that protects the skin from UV damage and dry-out. Enveloped in a luscious, beautifully textured emulsion which leaves behind a plumped, velvety softness.

• 3 molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate into deeper layers of the skin, while also preventing breakouts.
• 3 anti-oxidants – Mangosteen Extract, Baobab and Vitamin E – to provide all-day cellular protection.
• 3 sun filters, to provide SPF 20 daily sun-protection against the skin ageing effects of UVA/UVB.

If you haven’t tried MERUMAYA they make luxurious but affordable skincare that actually works. No gimmicks or fancy packaging, they are committed to delivering results. I highly recommend checking them out. Let me know if you do!

DECLÉOR Hydra Floral White Petal Skin Perfecting Concentrate

This is a great product if you suffer from pigmentation, uneven skin tone or dark spots and over time with continuous use, you really see a viable reduction. This has a tacky but fluid consistency, it’s gentle formula is so soothing and hydrating on the skin. I used it as part of my evening skincare routine and loved how luxurious and refreshing it felt. It is quite a pricey product but it targets very specific skin concerns and it actually works!

It is formulated with Sweet Orange Oil, Pea Extract and Hyaluronic Acid. to restore, hydrate and give your skin a fresh, healthy glow. It is great for reducing dark spots left over from stubborn blemishes and the soothing Chamomile and Rose Floral Waterworks to balance, and refresh your complexion.

Sanctuary Spa Body Moisture Spray

This is a nice lightweight body oil which dries down very quickly on the skin. I used it mostly on my thighs as an extra boost of hydration. It smooths the skin and leaves it feeling supple and soft. It contains a blend of moisturising jojoba, conditioning sweet almond and anti-oxidant Vitamin E. Sanctuary products have that recognisable scent which I love. I wouldn’t rush out to repurchase but I did enjoy using it.

Superdrug Raspberry & Vanilla Shower & Bath Soak

LOVE these Superdrug own brand shower gels, I have spoken about them a couple of times on my blog. They’re Vegan, Cruelty-Free and always on offer in Superdrug so I stock up whenever I am in store. They come in some the most delicious flavours, this one was sweet & fruity and left my bathroom smelling so good. I also love the Salted Caramel scent. If you have used these, let me know in the comments which is your favourite scent!

The Ordinary Advanced Retinoid 2%

Retinoids are a great ingredient to look out for in skin care especially if you want to delay the signs of ageing, address hyperpigmentation and improve texture. If you have very sensitive skin or you have irritation then you might want to apply a very small amount at first to see how you get on, also always remember to use SPF after using this! So if you have lost elasticity or have fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and uneven skin tone you might want to add this to your routine.

The Ordinary Advanced Retinoid 2% is a skin treatment serum for cell turnover and elastin production. Advanced Retinoid 2% is a stable emulsion of next-generation forms of Retinoid for anti-ageing and acne-prone skin by Deciem.

Hydroxypinacolone reinoate and pure retinol, are proven to be more effective than standard retinol formulations.

Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a lightweight, milky-textured serum that works hard to target visible signs of ageing while remaining gentle enough to avoid the irritation caused by some retinoid products.

Botanico Vida Omega Oil

This was a mini bottle which I take with me on trips, I did have the full size but used that up earlier this year. So I think it is fair to say I am a dedicated user of this body oil and have seen some great results. I love that it comes in a spray bottle, it is super convenient and means you can spray it directly on to the area you need and massage it in. It has a very lightweight texture and is very fluid which makes massaging it into your skin easy.

After using it for a few months I saw a real difference in my skin tone, texture and the softness of my skin. My stretch marks are not as dark or prominent, which is amazing! It contains a lovely blend of Omega, Vitamin and Anti Oxidant rich nutrients including,

Bioactive Sacha Inchi with 90% Omega Fatty Acids
Argan & Rosehip Oil
Avocado & Oilve Fruit Oil
Sunflower Seed & Coconut Oil
Vitamin E & Calendula
Mandarin & Grapefruit

If you suffer from scarring or stretch marks this body oil is fabulous at reducing both and I’d highly recommend trying this, I will 100% be purchasing another bottle (or two).

*This post includes PR samples

Product Empties May 2018

May 8, 2018 - Vicki 2 Comments

Even Better Clinical Clinique Dark Spot Corrector

I only used this on the areas where I have the most visible uneven skin. I have a couple of sunspots and dark patches from old blemishes so thought it was best to use this more as a target treatment on those specific areas. I wasn’t blown away with the results, I know there is only so much a serum can do but I would say this worked better on my blemish marks than on my sun spots. Maybe if I’d used this in addition to other treatments I might have seen more improvements. I did like the serum and it was great at hydrating and giving my skin a radiance but I wouldn’t rely on this to fade dark spots. Let me know if you have had success with this product, I’d love to know.

Origins Three Part Harmony Nourishing Cream

I’m so sad that I’ve used the last of this Three Point Harmony Cream (the three-point refers to Renewal, Repair and Radiance) although it felt like it lasted me for the longest time. It has quite a thick consistency which meant I only had to use a small amount each time. I made a few notes whilst using this cream because I wanted to make sure I didn’t forget just how instantly hydrating and smooth my skin felt, it was amazing. My skin felt so nourished and velvety smooth each time I applied it, I preferred to use it as part of my morning skincare routine because my makeup would apply so evenly and effortlessly on top. It leaves the skin feeling supple and instantly radiant. Post application you do notice an instant smoothness and the scent is beautifully sweet & up-lifting. It is jam packed with skin loving ingredients which help fight the signs of ageing whilst boosting radiance and evening out skin-tone. I loved using this and highly recommend if you’re 30+ and looking for a heavy but nourishing moisturiser

‘This intensely rich cream with Tazetta Lily Bulbs, White Myrtle and Japanese Knot Weed helps produce youthful supplies of natural collagen to help visibly repair skin’s structure. Fine lines and wrinkles are softened. With deeply nourishing plant butters plus Vitamin E, this luscious cream renews skin’s hydration levels. With Scutellaria, it helps reveal radiance, refine tone and brighten skin to impart a healthy, vibrant glow.’

The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% EGCG

Oh hell yes – I loved this product. LOVED LOVED LOVED. I reluctantly introduced it into my routine after having it for so long. I don’t know what took me so long to try it, maybe I just didn’t know where it would fit into my routine but I’m so glad I took a chance on it.

You apply it to around your orbital bone (around your eye area) and it helps reduce puffiness, reduce dark circles and it has actually reduced a patch of pigmentation I had to the edge of my eye.

Caffeine – Constricts blood vessels to reduce discolouration and swelling.
EGCG – Sourced from green tea, EGCG has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and is also proven to reactivate dying skin cells.

It is without a doubt one of my favourite products from The Ordinary, this solution has visibly reduced uneven skin-tone and my eyes have never looked as healthy. It is like liquid sleep. I can’t sing it’s praises enough but if you did need any more convincing to try it yourself the price tag might just sway you – this 30ml is only £5.80! Now all I ask is that you don’t buy it in bulk, leave me a bottle or two.

Duck & Dry Instant TLC Leave in Conditioner

I don’t use many hair products, I am very much low maintenance when it comes to styling my hair but this Duck & Dry Leave in Conditioner was pretty damn good. It smells like a super fancy spa and it left my hair glossy, detangled and looking very healthy indeed. A little goes a long way & you can easily apply too much & risk your hair being greasy but apart from that I thoroughly enjoyed using this

Honey, Shea Butter and Virgin Coconut Oil join forces to ensure maximum moisture levels and help prevent breakage, while Vitamin B works to repair the look of split ends and promote enhanced elasticity.

BalanceMe Super Moisturising Body Oil

I have become that person who smothers their entire body in oil (makes me feel very fancy indeed). I want my skin to remain supple, silky smooth and nourished from tip to toe for as long as possible, especially as I am 40 this year. I used to think body lotion was all I needed but I discovered just how amazing body oil left my skin feeling. This balanceme one isn’t too runny and my skin just soaks this stuff up. I like to use it after shaving my legs as it keeps them smooth and locks in moisture.

So this beautiful 100% natural, nut-free oil features a bespoke, revitalising blend of Neroli, Starflower and Rosehip oils and is designed to firm, nourish and deeply hydrate. It smells luxurious and I am now 100% converted to using body oil on a daily basis. I find it more convenient to use in the evening as I have more time & I’m not trying to get dressed whilst the oil is settling in. Let me know what your favourite body oils are.

Jurlique Rose Body Care Lotion

I always use body lotions in the morning after my shower and this Jurlique one comes in a handy pump bottle which makes applying it so much less faff. This has such a beautiful subtle rose scent that lingers on the skin which is really nice. The lotion is lightweight and easy to massage into the skin, it’s quickly absorbed which makes it a great morning body lotion so you can get dressed straight away. This bottle lasted me ages and I used it religiously every morning for a couple of months.

Its caring blend of Avocado and Macadamia Oils soften and rejuvenate without greasy residue.

Lacura Caviar Facial Cleansing Wipes

These are very affordable and I love the Caviar range from Aldi, I have tried quite a few products over the years and never been disappointed. These face wipes are handy to have & great to pack in your travel makeup bag. They’re nicely moist and remove makeup without tugging at the skin. Great if you’re in a pinch for time & need to remove makeup in a rush.

NIOD Fractionated Eye Contour Concentrate

This isn’t unlike The Ordinary Caffeine Solution but it is more specifically targeted for reducing hyper-pigmentation around the delicate eye area, targeting dark circles, puffiness and fine lines. It is like liquid sleep & the results are quite remarkable. I will be repurchasing this ASAP because I have missed having it in my routine.

‘It combines 28 clinical technologies to target many signs of under-eye and above-eye ageing in one treatment—borrowing from advanced biotechnology, polyphenol technology, next-generation cyclic peptide technologies, marine science and modern drone delivery mechanics. This single treatment is able to target visible ageing (both upper eyelids and lower eyelids) including the looks of dynamic lines, static lines, fine superficial under-eye lines, loss of elasticity (especially upper-eyelids), dark circles, puffiness and textural unevenness with positive visible results starting within 3 days and improving into 8 weeks with continued use.’

This is without a doubt the most effective eye treatment I have used and would recommend it in a heartbeat. It feels silky smooth on the skin, it’s lightweight but very hydrating. I simply love it. DECIEM have a lot of information & the science behind the 28 clinical technologies used in this product so I urge you to pop over & read all about them.

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Sanctuary Spa Body Moisture Spray

Superdrug Raspberry & Vanilla Shower & Bath Soak

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Lacura Caviar Facial Cleansing Wipes

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