Tony Moly K- Spa Exfoliating Glove Review

I'm dealing with a real case of Jet Lag. Since I've flown back I've had multiple days where I have been up for well over 36 hours. And I have not done one thing productive. I had a nice long vacation though, it was so long I was nervous about coming back to work- like I would just forget my whole job. One of the highlights of my trip- I finally flew in business class. It was on my bucket list...I got it at the last minute so it was definitely discounted. Not worth full price but certainly worth the price I paid. This was the first flight I got off the plane feeling refreshed. The lie flat seat on international flights was definitely worth it. Also the real dishes/silverware and slightly better food. At the end of the day it was still airplane food so you could definitely still tell it was just reheated but I still loved every second. The larger/screen, better headset. Hopefully that happens again on my next trip to/from the states. 

Anyway...back to blogging. Hopefully regularly. I was planning to review these gloves before I left but I took a lot of brain power sitting around thinking/planning to pack etc instead of actually getting it done. I packed last minute and I could tell.

Tony Moly claims:

Reveal your smoothest, glowiest skin with the Plum Bum Exfoliating Glove—a spa-quality exfoliating mitt designed to buff away dead skin, impurities, and rough patches while boosting circulation. Inspired by the iconic Korean body scrub experience, this 100% biodegradable glove delivers a deep yet gentle exfoliation.

Transform your shower routine with the Exfoliating Glove, inspired by the iconic Korean scrub experience. Designed to lift away dull, dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin, these gloves enhance your skin's natural radiance and prepare it to absorb moisturizers and serums for that spa-fresh glow. For best results, use with our Plum Bum Gentle Daily Exfoliating Body Bar and finish with Plum Bum Tightening Peptide Serum to leave your skin irresistibly soft and firm.

100% Biodegradable Viscose – Naturally derived and gentle on skin, this fabric softens in warm water to provide optimal exfoliation without irritation.

Lymphatic-Boosting Texture – Helps stimulate circulation and promote detoxification, leaving skin looking refreshed and sculpted.

Exfoliating gloves. It's been a minute since I've owned a pair. I had forgotten how much I like them. I haven't bought any in years- mainly because they are usually made of plastic and I try to watch the amount/types of plastic I am purchasing. These are different because they are not plastic- and they are 100% biodegradable. I don't know how long it take to biodegrade but at least it eventually will.

These definitely smell a bit off. They are made of viscose. I don't know if it's the process they go through but I didn't really like the smell of the gloves.

I do love how exfoliating they are- while still feeling quite gentle. It feels really nice to scrub down with them. 

They are  purple. And they look like mittens. They dry quickly and are easy to clean. They are also quite a bit thinner than most other gloves I have used before

The only other problem I had was that one of the gloves developed a hole in it the second day of use. I have still been able to keep using them with no issue. But I wasn't thrilled to see the hole.

Overall, I really like them and would consider buying them again if I can't find another biodegradable option. I also bought the Plum soap- which I should be reviewing soon.

Gente The Ipanema Scrub Review

I'm seriously contemplating watching all of Bridgerton Season 4 again even though I just watched it. I love it that much. I want to pay more attention to the Mondrich family. They have always been a favorite of mine but I feel like in this last season even more so. I just don't want Lady Danbury to have to take a step back in order to let them shine. But let me stop chattering on about Bridgerton and let's talk scrubs.

It's been a little while since I have bought a standalone scrub. Although this is more a soap/scrub hybrid.

Gente claims:

Gentle exfoliation meets deep nourishment for radiant, revitalized skin

Expertly crafted to provide a perfect blend of gentle exfoliation and deep nourishment, leaving your skin smooth, glowing, and revitalized.

Key Benefits:

• Rice Exfoliator: Harness the natural power of rice exfoliation to gently slough away dead skin cells, revealing soft, smooth, and radiant skin without stripping your skin's natural oils.
• Cocoa-Rich Formula: Infused with nourishing cocoa, this soap hydrates and moisturizes, leaving your skin feeling silky and refreshed after every wash.
• Seaweed Extract: Enriched with seaweed extract to help reduce the appearance of skin bumps and smooth uneven texture, giving your skin a flawless, even look.
• Lymphatic Drainage Support: The gentle exfoliation stimulates lymphatic circulation, promoting a healthier appearance and boosting skin vitality.
• Made in Brazil: Carefully crafted with love in Brazil, this soap brings a touch of luxury to your daily skincare routine.
• Minimizes Dryness: Our hydrating formula locks in moisture, reducing dryness and leaving your skin feeling soft, supple, and nourished.
• All-Natural Formula: Made with all-natural ingredients, free from harsh chemicals, and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

This is a new to me brand. With the popularity of the Sol De Janeiro line (not made in Brazil), I really wanted to try out a brand that was. But most aren't easily accessible. Until I saw this on sale at Nordstrom. I bought it for around $12. Which is still pricey but not as high as some of the brands they typically sell. The only other product I have tried beside the Sol line that was inspired by Brazil was the Lush Sandstone soap.  So I was happy to see this.

We'll talk the name first- every time I see it I hear this song in my head. 

You are only supposed to use it a few times a week. It is pretty gentle as a scrub. The scrubby bits are pretty fine. I think it gives a decent scrub- nothing too harsh. It's also a soap so it lathers up nicely. I don't think it makes your skin as hydrated and smooth as a traditional scrub with the oils and butters- it can actually leave my skin a bit parched actually but that's nothing a little oil or lotion can't solve. 

One of my favorite things about it- a scrub with no plastic packaging. The only other brand I've tried that makes plastic free scrubs is Lush. This particular product even reminds me a bit of Lush Buffy-if Buffy were a soap scrub type- especially as far as scent goes. If you are looking a really hydrating scrub I would recommend that. I think this might be better for oily skin or people that hate an oily scrub. 

It is a very nice scent. It makes me think of an outdoor shower with a view of a bright, sunshine, breezy beach. Makes me wish that's where I was instead of just in my boring bathroom.  I really enjoy the scent.

It rinses clean and I don't find bits of scrub lingering in crevices like some other scrubs tend to do. 

Ingredients:

Sodium Palmate, Sodium Stearate, Sodium Palm Kernelate, Sodium Chloride, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Parfum/Fragrance, Silica (From Rice Husk / Oryza Sativa L), Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Pca, Hypnea MusciformisExtract, Ci 77891, Tocopherol, Linalool, D-Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Salicylate, Benzyl Benzoate, Citronellol, Sargassum Filipendula Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Botryocladia Occidentalis Extract, Sorbitol, Potassium Sorbate.

Overall, I like it. Glad I got to try a new brand and I'm glad it's a Brazilian brand- actually made in Brazil! 

First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Review

I just booked my flight back to the states for the Holidays (some of them). I can't wait....I love looking forward to a vacation. In the meantime ...time to do a blog post. I think I only have one more use of this and I need to cut it open so definitely time to review it. I've tried a few things from this brand- and I'm also pretty sure I had a tiny sample of this scrub but I think it was before I reviewed samples.

First Aid Beauty claims:

Exfoliate bumps and chicken skin associated with keratosis pilaris

Works Best For

Normal Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin, Oily Skin

Solutions For

Dryness, Dullness, Uneven Texture

A body scrub that sweeps away dry, rough bumps associated with KP, strawberry skin and booty bumps to reveal healthier looking skin that feels exceptionally smooth.

• Safe for sensitive skin
• Fast-acting body scrub uses Glycolic & Lactic acids, at a combined level of 10% AHAs, to help resurface skin’s top layer + Pumice to physically exfoliate
• Helps improve skin’s texture and smooth away bumps, roughness, and scaly areas, also known as chicken skin + buttne
• Allergen-Free, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free, Nut-Free, Nano-Free, Parthenolide-Free

• Sunburn Alert: This product contains Glycolic and Lactic Acids that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.  

First things first- I don't have KP. But I heard this scrub can get rid of "strawberry" skin. And even though my strawberry skin legs don't bother me I thought I would give it a go because I was in disbelief. IDK if it's because I only had the small size but it doesn't get rid of strawberry skin.

It has both a chemical exfoliant and a physical one in the form of pumice. I do like a pumice scrub because unlike sugar or salt it does not dissolve so you can scrub as long as you wish. I also like pumice because it's not scratchy but does feel like it's exfoliating. The chemical exfoliants are Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid. 

It is really nice and scrubby. And my skin does feel slightly smoother for about an hour after. Lotion goes on smoother and sinks in quicker. But I really feel the smoothness is temporary. I think I was expecting more. 

You do have to be careful to really rinse it- otherwise you will find it stuck in random places.

I bought the 2 ounce size for about $8.00. I like that First Aid Beauty offers small sizes and so many sampler kits so you can really test the smaller sizes before committing to a larger one.

Ingredients: 

Ingredient Highlights

• Pumice Buffing Beads: Natural exfoliating particles that mechanically remove dead cells on skin's surface to reveal brighter & smoother skin.
• Glycolic & Lactic Acids: Alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate skin and help it appear brighter and improve texture.
• Bisabolol: A botanical extract that helps soothe and calm skin.
• Vitamin E: A vitamin rich in antioxidants that helps condition and soothe skin and stave off environmental aggressors.

Full Ingredients

Pumice, Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Lactic Acid,  Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Palmitic Acid, Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Sorbitol, Colloidal Oatmeal, Tocopherol, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract,  Bisabolol, Hydrogenated Coconut Acid, Xanthan Gum, Steareth-20, Steareth-21, Myristic Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, EDTA 

                               Overall, it's ok. I can't really see myself repurchasing but glad I got to try out.

Tweezerman Sole Smoother Antibacterial Callus Stone Review

 Have a  quick review for today so I can hit relax mode. I bought this stone last summer and realized I need to review it. I usually just use a pumice stone but this seemed to be a bit more convenient and easy to use than those...so I thought I would give it a try.

Tweezerman claims:

Our bestselling foot exfoliator and smoothing tool is infused with silver for protection from bacteria and germs. Premium quality, this antibacterial callus removal stone is a German-made, fully waterproof ceramic stone with an ergonomic handle.

1. Soak feet to prep and help soften hard skin. 
2. While skin is still soft and damp, use the coarse side to exfoliate especially rough or callused spots. 
3. Use the opposite side to smooth bottoms of feet and around toes. CAUTION: Not for use for diabetics, hemophiliacs or those with circulatory problems.

KEY BENEFITS 

• Effectively removes calluses and smooths feet 
• Ceramic stone and plastic handle infused with silver for enhanced hygiene 
• Fully waterproof to use in the shower or tub 
• Ergonomic and durable, the high-quality Sole Smoother is comfortable to hold, easy to use and long lasting

One of the other reasons I bought this is because I was just casually browsing the store and and picking up random things when I noticed these were Made in Germany. I thought that was pretty cool so I ended up buying it. 

And I really like it. The handle really does make it so much easier to use since you don't have to bend down as far to use it. No more crazy shower maneuvering. I try to use it weekly- but I probably don't use it that often. Just whenever I remember it. 

This is different than a pumice stone because I felt like using a pumice stone is work and never really felt that nice. I tend to use both sides whenever I do use it and one side feels very nice to use. I mean...really nice. I'm just buffing the dead skin off and grinning. I can see why people enjoy pedicures so much when I do use that side.

It does work to remove dead skin- but you do have to follow up with a moisturizing cream, shea butter, or foot lotion to get everything as smooth as it can be. If you just use this without the follow up oil, things can get kinda rough. 

When mine wears out, I am getting another one. I will repurchase this without hesitation. It is on the pricey side and has gone up since I bought mine but I would say it was worth it. 

Tatcha The Rice Polish Classic Review

 I like having something a little fancier in my skincare routine, makes me feel ike I'm taking better care of my skin and kinda acts like a treat. I'm not  likely to go get a facial- I'm too lazy. And I know the price would quickly build up. So for now, I will stick to splurging on skincare every once in a while. I ordered this from the Tatcha site-with a discount since it was my very first purchase from them. It comes in a mini try it size but I went ahead and decided to just give the larger size a go. 

Tatcha claims:

A water-activated exfoliant of nourishing Japanese rice bran and silk protein that transforms to a creamy foam for a smooth polish and healthy glow.

Our Journey to You

Women in Japan care for their skin with a beauty ritual that is as elegant as it is simple. Delicately polishing skin to a jewel-like luster is at the heart of their daily practice. For centuries, Japanese women have used the milky water from the first wash of rice to prepare a perfectly smooth complexion. The Rice Polish Collection brings this timeless secret to the modern skincare lover.

About Our Packaging

Inspired by kaizen, the philosophy of continuous improvement and learning, we are on a journey toward sustainability. The Rice Polish is packaged in a mono material jar of 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic for easy recycling. It features a new, easy-to-pour spout made with greater accessibility in mind. This push-to-open spout also better prevents water from getting into the jar, making for a more shower-friendly experience.

The Rice Polish gives your skin a new beginning through non-abrasive exfoliation and pure Japanese ingredients delivered in a cloud-like foam. Finely ground rice bran and papaya enzymes promote natural skin turnover to instantly reveal a smooth, makeup-ready canvas. The pH neutral, amino acid base formula provides effective cleansing without stripping skin of essential moisture or breaking the skin’s barrier function, leaving skin baby-soft and supple. Hadasei-3™, a trio of fermented Japanese superfoods - green tea, rice and algae - helps restore healthy-looking radiance. Ideal for combination to dry skin, The Rice Polish: Classic features silk protein to condition and nourish.

Recommended for: Combo to Dry, Dullness, Uneven Texture, Pores

I've been using this since May and I think I'm finally about at the half way mark. This stuff lasts forever. Which means at least you are getting your value for money. I only use it 1-2 time per week though, I know they recommend it as a daily exfoliant but I don't like the idea of using an exfoliating product that often, no matter how gentle it is. 

I find Tatcha an interesting brand- it's inspired by Japanese culture. And this Rice Polish is Made in Japan. The founder is Asian American. I've read some articles/opinions that mention they think this brand exploits Japanese beauty rituals. I'm not sure I know enough to have an opinion either way so it's not a brand I feel I should boycott at this point. I don't really see that the brand uses any particular imaging to market this product, but I haven't really looked too hard.

I did find This article covers more on the brand. I didn't know the brand was owned by Unilever so that's news to me. I liked thinking I was purchasing from a smaller brand but that's not so anymore. Bummer.

Back to the Rice polish. You get 60 grams- price without a sale is $68. That's pretty pricey. It has a lot to live up to when you consider the price.

The product itself is a fine powder, you add a little water and it foams up. "Wash" your face with it for 60 seconds. Wash off. That's it. 

It's a very easy product to use.

So what have I noticed? The first time I used it, I felt a noticeable difference in the softness of my skin. But I haven't noticed it since that first time using.

I feel this product helps with dullness, it really helps the skin look brighter and I feel like my skin has a noticeable glow on the days I use it. 

I do notice it helps with uneven texture. For awhile I had one really textured cheek. IDK why. I had found chemical exfoliants really help with that. And this is no different. I haven't noticed the texture coming back since I've started using chemical exfoliants regularly. But while this helps, you can get something like The Ordinary peel solution that will help with that too and it won't hurt the pocket so much. The Ordinary stuff is a very strong chemical exfoliant though and this is definitely more gentle. But there are  more gentle ones out there, I just haven't tried enough at this point. 

As for pores- I don't have too many issues with pores..so I couldn't say if it really helps or not.

I was hoping the exfoliating would help with scarring I have on my chin. Not so much. I haven't really found any of the chemical exfoliants to make a noticeable difference though. 

The packaging is nice. It uses some recycled plastic and is supposed to be recyclable. It comes in a really nice box. Mine came with a handwritten note which is always a nice touch. It's easy to pour out (the first time I poured too much so be careful). The packaging is nice and unique-ultimately it's still housed in a ton of plastic.

Is it worth the price? 

Probably now. I like it. I think it would be worth about $30 to me. I could pay that. That's still pricey. But nearly $70 is just too much especially since I don't think it does anything that a cheaper chemical exfoliant  can't. I am very curious to just try rice water. I make and soak rice and so I have Rice Water. I typically throw it out but maybe I should try it on my skin and hair? 

Ingredients: 

MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) POWDER, SODIUM LAURYL PHOSPHATE, SODIUM LAUROYL GLUTAMATE, SODIUM STEAROYL GLUTAMATE, SODIUM COCOYL GLUTAMATE, LAURYL BETAINE, SODIUM LAUROYL METHYLAMINOPROPIONATE, SACCHAROMYCES/CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF/CLADOSIPHON OKAMURANUS/RICE FERMENT FILTRATE*, PAPAIN, ORYZA SATIVA (RICE) BRAN EXTRACT, SERICIN, HYDROLYZED SILK, HYDROLYZED CONCHIOLIN PROTEIN, PROPANEDIOL, DEXTRIN, PHYTOSTERYL/OCTYLDODECYL LAUROYL GLUTAMATE, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, PHENOXYETHANOL

I will enjoy the rest- and must admit I am curious about a few of the other products in the line but it's not a must have. More of a nice to try once and then move on type of purchase. 

Lush Buffy Body Butter Review

 I'm mostly through my Lush stash which means I am ready for the Christmas sale, all I have left is a little body powder, a Karma soap, and two massage bars. Oh..and a face soap. But compared to what I had at the last Christmas sale..I've used up quite a bit. Except I completely forgot I had this body scrub until I was looking through everything and discovered it again.

Lush claims:

The OG skin softening slayer

What can we say about this classic Lush exfoliating body scrub? Natural exfoliation from ground rice, almonds and aduki beans will polish while the blend of butters and oils will moisturise, leaving you with the softest skin. All this and completely packaging-free. 

Buffy the Body Slayer..Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I remember seeing so many commercials for that show growing up and wanting to watch it...but never did. And probably won't now. 

Anyway I did use this a few times before I put it away and forgot about it. I think I put it away because at the time I as using a lot of soaps that were exfoliating and didn't need to double exfoliate.  I'm actually surprised none of the oils in the body butter went rancid. Some of the scent disappeared but as I started using it again, I could smell it. It's sort a pleasant scent, a little hard to describe. I really like the way it smells though. 

As for scrubbiness- it is the perfect scrubbiness. It's not too rough and not too gentle. Rice, almond ,and adzuki bean are the winning combo.

At the same time this is scrubbing and polishing up your skin, it's also acting as a body butter and providing the best hydration ever. I had a dry patch that had been bother me a little...after using this? Gone! No need to lotion up after your shower either. 

I see why this is such a classic product. 

I think my favorite thing about this product is not only does it exfoliate and moisturize and do it well, it's also plastic free! What other company is making such an excellent scrub and making it plastic free? 

It also lasts quite a bit longer than I originally thought it would, I know I've used it more than six times and still have a few more uses left. 

Also..the ingredients are excellent. Scrubs are one of the easiest to find with a cleaner ingredient list, this one is clean with fair trade ingredients.

Ingredients:

Fair Trade Cocoa Butter, Fair Trade Shea Butter, Ground Rice, Ground Almonds, Ground Organic Adzuki Beans, Perfume, Lavender Oil, Lemon Oil, Citral, Limonene, Linalool

I love this scrub, I can see why it's a Lush Favorite. It's one of my favorites too! Now I'm anxious to try out Scrubee....

Lush Pumice Power Foot Soap Review

I have the next five days of work off...yay for me! I don't have any particular plans except for trying to stay cool and maybe do a few posts. Starting with some old Lush stuff that's just been sitting and growing older. Idk why this took me so long to pull out and use...but here we are. I had to basically stop buying new Lush so I could use the old stuff.

Lush claims:

Pumice powder and blend of skin-softening oils help revive soles and leave them feeling refreshed.

This scrubby soapy bar will break down that tough second skin. Pumice powder exfoliates away dry, dead skin and brightening sweet orange oil refreshes and rejuvenates from heels to toes. It's simple to use; soap and scrub in one simple motion, then rinse for wonderfully soft, refreshed feet. We pumice you'll notice the difference!

I feel like this was cheaper when I bought it, maybe 5 pounds? I do remember getting it off the UK site. It's $7.50 on the US site. But is it worth it? You can buy a pumice stone and it's a much better deal. And do you really need a dedicated foot soap? IDK. A bit more work in the shower for sure, and usually it's something I have to make sure to grab and bring in the shower with me, otherwise the steam seems to melt it.

Maybe not. I don't think this really softens and smooths as much as I hoped. It does a little something, something but I think overall it's too gentle for what I want. Maybe a touch up or in between the real scrubbing type of product. I just want something scratchier. It is scratchy on your regular skin but on the soles of feet? Not so much.

It does smell really nice though. And doesn't melt as fast as I thought, but it does melt fast for how much you are using.

I love the shape, love the color, and love the bright citrus smell. Usually foot products smell like peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree.....I like it though.

Ingredients are better than some, but there are even better all natural body scrubs I've used that I think are comparable.

Ingredients:

Pumice powder, Water, Rapeseed Oil, Coconut Oil, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Organic Sweet Orange Oil, Limonene, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Stearate EDTA,Tetrasodium Etidronate, Sodium Hydroxide,  Perfume, Colour

Overall, it was OK. Not a must have, and I'm not certain I would purchase again. I like the concept better than I like it in use.

Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Scrub Review

 Clean and Clear and under control. 

I have no idea if they still have those commercials but its engrained in my head forever. The marketing must have been great back then because I had the face wash when I was in high school. I don't remember if I liked it but I never repurchased it.

Clean and Clear claims:

Specially formulated to reveal softer, more radiant skin, this scrub contains a blend of effective cleansers, vitamin C, ginseng, and Bursting Beads® that gently remove dull, tired-looking skin. Add into your morning routine 2-3 times per week for smoother-looking skin.

Made in Canada

It smells exactly like I remember it…which is unfortunate because I don't like the smell. It is a very fake wanna be citrus scent, I was expecting something zesty and uplifting. This is just very artificial and meh smelling. 

But there is more to a scrub than scent. Its a hybrid gel cleanser/scrub. The scrubby bits are not plentiful but I guess they are doing the job because my skin feels smooth but it isn't something I noticed immediately. 

I have oily skin but I haven’t really noticed my skin feeling oily. It just feels normal. Great for oily skin.

The website says to use the scrub 3-5 times a week, but the bottle says you can use daily so I have been using it every morning. My skin has been really clear and problem free. 

The scrub itself says that it is plastic free…but I still can’t find more information on what the scrubby bits are and if they are safe to go down the drain. 

As for ingredients, I don't see anything great that I am happy to put on my skin.

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Microcrystalline Wax, Lauryl Glucoside, Cellulose, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Microcrystalline cellulose,  Phenoxyethanol,Fragrance, Methylparaben, Sodium Hydroxide, Menthyl Lactate, Disodium EDTA, Mannitol, Cellulose, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Acrylates Ammonium methacrylate,copolymer, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, triethyl citrate, talc, yellow, red, iron oxides, mica titanium dioxide, 

Overall, not a bad scrub…but not one I would go out of my way to repurchase. At least until I knew more about what the scrub is made from.

Alba Botanica Hawaiin Sea Salt Body Scrub Review

I've seen the Alba brand in health food stores as well as Target and a few drugstores. I don't think I've tried anything from them before (maybe a lip balm?), they aren't as natural as I like my products to be which is why.  I was ordering something off of Amazon and I wanted to meet the minimum to have it qualify for free shipping and it had been awhile since I've bought a scrub, so into the cart it went. 

Alba Bontanica claims:

Wake up bright delight with this purifying scrub. Revitalizing Pacific sea salts deeply detox and exfoliate while a burst of citrus awakens and renews. A medley of jojoba, macadamia, avocado and sweet almond oils lavish moisture to soften and hydrate

Hypo-allergic

Deeply Detox and Exfoliate Skin

Vegetarian 

Natural Ingredients

No Artificial Colors, No Plastic Micro- Beads, No Synthetic Fragrance 

I'll start off with the scent, it's juicy and bright and citrusy. Exactly how I want a scrub to smell. I really like the scent and it's all natural essential oils according to the ingredients. Grapefruit, Lemongrass, Lime and Orange. Unfortunately, that is about all I like about the scrub. 

I first tested a little bit when it came in the mail. I used it on dry skin and ended up with two cuts on my hands. It uses the larger granule of salt and I prefer a much smaller granule, as it is much more effective and not as harsh. Because of that-you have to be extra gentle, but then when I am too gentle most of the scrub seems to fall right off my skin and onto the shower floor. But on the other hand if you scrub too hard it feels like it is cutting the skin! 

Another thing I noticed when I first opened is it was full of oil. Because of that, you really have dig to get the scrub and it wasn't scrubby at all. Most of the oil drained out of mine, I had it sitting in the shower upside down, and just couldn't be bothered to pick it up because I really didn't like it anyway.

It's much better (but still sucks) now that a lot of the oil has drained out of it. 

Another thing I've noticed is that it makes my skin itch in some places. I'll scrub it on and then want to rinse it immediately because it feels like it is causing a reaction on my skin. Not good! 

I almost forgot to talk about how it leaves my skin feeling. I can skip moisturizing. And my skin feels slightly smoother, but nothing spectacular. 

It is all natural. That makes the 2nd thing I like about I guess.

Ingredients:

Sea Salt, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil(1), Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil(1), Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil(1), Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Tocopherol, Citral, Limonene, Linalool.
(1)Certified Organic Ingredient

Overall, I really didn't like this scrub and wouldn't recommend it. I should have bought another of the Deep Steep scrubs instead! 

Body Bloom Original Coffee Scrub Review

Another find from the Clearance rack at Globus. I found this for the bargain price of two euro. I've only just now looked it up and see they retail for 16.50. Which is pretty pricy! When I saw this I immediately thought of the Frank body scrub that I had heard raves about a couple years ago. 

Body Bloom claims:

I'm POLISH scrub created especially for you with the best coffee and many natural ingredients. My touch does wonders - I fight cellulite and stretch marks, moisturize, smoothen and firm your body. Let me take you in my arms only once, and I will make your skin looking better than ever before. I've got everything that works best for you, and all of my treasures have been selected specifically for your needs. Sometimes I tend to be rough, but give me one minute and I'll become the most sweet and mysterious guy you'll ever meet! There is no better way to start or end the day than a shared bath. Have you already fell in love with me? I'll be your new greatest love. Let's not waste a second and have a shower together!

Coffee scrubs are easy enough to make...it's just I never have. I can be pretty lazy when it comes to making scrubs. It's actually been quite awhile since I bought one though. For awhile I was hooked on the Deep Steep scrubs but they are no longer as easy for me to get and certainly not at the bargain prices I was finding them before. 

So I snapped this up when I saw the great price. It really does smell like coffee. But an almost fermented coffee smell. I like it. Of course, you would have to like the smell of coffee to like this. You can really smell the coffee too. 

It's pretty scrubby and does a great job of getting dead skin off. After rinsing my skin is smooth and hydrated. And so soft! But not oily or greasy at all. 

I don't know about the claims to fight cellulite. Maybe it helps? Maybe it does nothing. I didn't really pay attention to the results beyond it removing dead skin cells and smoothing out my skin. 

The only problem is that it can be messy. Coffee gets everywhere....but it's nothing a quick clean can't take care off. It's just surprising to see how messy it is and how it get's everywhere each time, but I like the scrub enough to not care too much!

I've used my bag two times so far and I think I have at least two uses to go. For the price I got it at, I'm thrilled. But if I had to pay full price? Making my own seems to be a great option. It's vey pricy, especially considering the amount you get and the packaging. The packaging is cool, easily recycled but cheap! 

Overall, I like it...and I'm thinking it will be on my end of the year favorite list! 

Have you tried any coffee beauty products? Did you like it? Have any faves you would recommend? Let me know in the comments! 

Deep Steep Snowflake Argan Oil Scrub

These are basically the only scrubs I've reviewed in the last year. And for good reason! I love them. They all basically do the same thing they just smell a little different. Oh, and some have Argan Oil. 

Deep Steep claims:

Deep Steep's moisturizing argan oil sugar scrub gently exfoliates dead skin cells, , leaving smooth, radiant, polished skin.

So snowflake doesn't really tell you much about the scent. I had no idea what it smelled like until I opened it outside the store. It basically smells like Lemon Sugar Cookies. And I love anything that smells like Lemon Sugar Cookies. It was part of the holiday collection, but I think this one should be part of the permanent line.

The scrub is the same as all the others. It's not the most scrubby scrub. You can kind of adjust it by having your skin more dry or damp when you use it Dry skin means more scrub, while damp makes it more gentle. Also the sugar crystals dissolve a little slower on dryer skin. I like a lot of scrub action so I tend to use it on dryer skin. Although I wish it was a bit more scrubby still.

It almost functions as an in shower body lotion since it leaves an oil coating on the skin. Some people probably won't like it, but I love it! I just towel dry and my skin is super hydrated and soft. The oil eventually sinks in and leaves you with smooth skin. 

The jar usually lasts me about 3-4 uses. But I'm kind of heavy handed with it. Your mileage might vary.

It leaves a subtle scent on your skin too!

Sometimes I even use them as a lip scrub and on my face. I don't think it's supposed to be used on the face...but oh well. 

As always it's vegan, cruelty free, all natural, made in the USA, gluten free, non-gmo. etc 

Ingredients:

Sugar, Lemon Extract, Organic Vanilla Fruit Extract, Argan Oil, Shea Butter, Organic Coconut Oil, Aroma, Rosemary Leaf Extract

I bought it for around $6 at TJ's. The retail price on them is around $10-11. I wouldn't mind paying full price for them, but why do that when I can get them for less. I'm kind of sad though because this is the last in my stash and I haven't spotted any new ones in TJ's! 

This is definitely in the top 5 scents of the ones I've tried. It doesn't quite beat the vanilla peppermint, but it's good enough that I wish it were permanent.

Have you tried anything from Deep Steep? Any recommendations? Let me know in the comments?

Now I kind of want some Lemon Sugar Cookies.....

Deep Steep Sugar Candy Apple Argan Oil Scrub Review

I've used up about eight of these scrubs, all in different scents. I love them. I'm not sure if it was my switch to natural soaps or these scrubs but my skin is a lot smoother than it used to be. And that's without lotion. It's probably a combination of the two though, to be honest. Anyway, I got this for $3 on clearance at TJ Maxx. The best price I have ever seen for them.

Deep Steep claims:

Deep Steep's moisturizing Argan Oil Sugar Scrub gently exfoliates dead skin cells, leaving smooth, radiant, polished skin.

This particular scent is part of their holiday collection. I believe they release the same scents every year but don't quote me on that. The scent reminds of me the sugary apple scents that you find in Bath and Body Works. It's a sweet apple scent with just a hint of tart to it. It almost smells like the old school Herbal Essence Shower Gel I used to go crazy for. If you love apple scents or even just really fruity scents this is definitely one to try out. I really like the scent. And it sticks to you. I usually catch a  whiff of it throughout the day when I use it. 

Like all Deep Steep scrubs, it is extremely moisturizing. It leaves behind an oily coating after you rinse that allows you just towel dry and go. It feels as though you applied moisturizer! Almost like a two in one.

As for scrubbiness, it can be very gentle. I like something a little rougher so I use it on dryer skin. If you need something a bit gentler just use it on wetter skin. It does dissolve a little quicker using it that way though.

It's not recommended but I have even tried it as a gentle face and lip scrub. My skin is always extra hydrated the rest of the day and my lips are super smooth.

It's all natural, cruelty free, non-gmo, vegan, and made in the USA. 

Ingredients: 

Sugar, Sugar Cane Extract,  Apple Extract, Argan Oil, Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Aroma, Rosemary Extract

I love it because the scent really reminds me of Herbal Essence shower gel. I remember buying a bottle back in the 6th grade. It was m first "fancy" shower gel and all my own. I rationed that stuff out like a crazy person to make it last longer because I loved the scent. Definitely a favorite out of all the scents I have tried from Deep Steep. They really should consider making it permanent- this and the peppermint!

Do you have a favorite scrub? Let me know in the comments!