Spring-Ready Skin with Moroccanoil Body's Latest Skincare Indulgence

 

It's May 28th and although it's rainy and quite cool today let's not forget it's Spring and I'm anticipating lots of sunshine and warmer shorts weather in the near future.

You may have already heard of Moroccanoil and it's amazing benefits for your locks but did you know they now have a new Moroccanoil Body Line with seriously decadent body products?
I am a big fan of their hair products and love what it does for my hair so I was really hoping that this body line would not disappoint.

I received their new Body Soufflé {MRSP: $52 CAN/190ml} and Body Buff {MRSP: $42 CAN / 180ml} to try out for myself and was instantly attracted to the presentation.
The containers they come in are simple yet screams indulgence. And there is a lot of product in each container! The great thing is that you do not have to use so much at every use.

I lit a few candles, got the bubble bath going, played some soothing jazz tunes and poured myself a glass of red wine. *Dream bubble pop*
I don't have much time on a typical day to pamper myself like that but that's why these products are so clever. You don't need that much time to feel like you did pamper yourself.


Made with natural orange peel exfoliator, the Body Buff is gentle enough for daily use to polish away dead skin cells and instantly transform your skin. The added benefits of argan oil blended with Vitamin E and nourishing avocado, grape seed, safflower, sesame and sweet almond oils, rejuvenate your skin with intense moisture.

Massage in a circular motion to either dry or damp skin until absorbed. Concentrate on areas prone to rough or dry patches. Then, buff and rinse off in the shower. 

At my most recent spa visit, I had a lovely salt scrub before my massage and my skin never felt better.
It wasn't until I used this product that I felt a similar feeling.

If you plan to use a body bronzer to add some colour to your skin this summer, a good body exfoliator is an absolute must. I highly recommend this product for that.

A whipped hybrid between a body milk and butter, the Moroccanoil Body Soufflé instantly drenches and penetrates skin with intense hydration leaving behind renewed softness, smoothness and resilience. The indulgent formula is rich with reparative argan oil, shea butter and aloe vera that help to stimulate skin’s cellular renewal, and work to improve skin’s natural barrier functions, health and vitality.
Suitable for all skin types, Body Soufflé is all that is needed to wrap skin in a daily, decadent moisture boost. Further stimulating the senses is the signature scent of Moroccanoil, a delightful aromatic blend of the hero ingredients.

To achieve optimum benefits and results, apply Body Soufflé daily after cleansing to lock in moisture and receive immediate skin replenishment.

I don't like strong scents on my skin. Not just because I am constantly around my little ones but also because I find it tends to irritate my nose. Body creams should not be too strong (that's why perfume is for!). They should aim at smoothing and quenching your skin first and if you prefer the scent, a nice subtle fragrance should do the trick.
This is what I loved about this cream. I smell the shea butter and argan oil yet it's not overwhelming, it's perfect!
It also settles very well into the skin. Not watery, not too thick, just the right texture.
It will definitely work well with all skin types.

Moroccanoil body products are available at luxury spas, fine salons nationwide and at Ben and Tournesol in Montreal.
Discover signature services and products through prestige spa partners, including Quartz Crystal Spa (Trump Hotel Toronto), The Spa at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Spa Vida (Sheraton Wall Center Vancouver), Victoria Park Spa (Montreal) and The Spa at the Four Seasons Toronto.

More information
To explore the full line of Moroccanoil products, visit www.moroccanoil.com.
You can also visit them online at their various social media sites:
Twitter & Instagram: @Moroccanoil
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Moroccanoil
YouTube: www.youtube.com/moroccanoil

For a daily spa-like experience without the cost, try out Moroccanoil's newest Body Line and indulge!

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Disclosure: I received sample products for this review, however all opinions expressed are my very own.

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Bring on the Sunshine with Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen {Sampling Opportunity}

My daughter (on the right) & her BFF enjoying the sunshine wearing  Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen !

Spring has finally sprung and Mr. Sun has decided to grace us with his warming presence.

My daughter is just as excited as I am of course because that means lots of outdoor play and discovery. What's even more fun is that we now have a new little addition to join us for our many Spring & Summer activities outside.

As a mother, the one thing that I get very concerned about once the sun starts radiating stronger and stronger each day within the next few weeks is my children's skin. My daughter already has very sensitive skin and now I also have to worry about the delicate skin of my baby boy.

I've tried quite a few different sunscreens for my daughters skin and most often she would react to it, from mild to strong.

I've had success with Banana Boat® products in the past and now I'm excited to try their latest product, Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen.

Whether you’re off for a day at the beach or an in-city adventure with the kids, the new Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen lotion provides the clinically proven protection mom loves, but is gentle enough for the most delicate – and sometimes finicky – skin. 

The Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen lotion provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, yet is Paraben, PABA and Oxybenzone-free, so parents can feel comfortable applying it on their kids. The pediatrician-tested sunscreen, made from 100% naturally sourced sunscreen ingredients, is also water resistant allowing for a tear- and sting-free sunscreen experience. 

The Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen is currently available at grocery, drug and mass retail outlets across Canada for approximately $11.99.

So worries no more! We are super excited to welcome the warmer months and plenty of fun outdoors thanks to Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen lotion!

Memory Lane: Summer fun at the Cottage - Ava at 18 months.

I'm looking for 25 of my readers that would like to receive a full sample of a Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen to try and then share their review with me for a chance to win a $50 Visa gift card. 
If you're interested in participating and receiving a free sample + a chance to win a $50 Visa Gift Card, simply enter via quick rafflecopter entry.
The first 25 to reply will be chosen! 

*Please note if you have applied & were chosen for this review opportunity with another Blog, I ask that you be courteous and allow for others to have a chance to participate.
Thank you! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Listen to your SKIN-tuition with The New Schick® Intuition® Pure Nourishment™ Razor Review Opportunity

Spring is just around the corner and that means we're waving buh-bye to the Winter Wardrobe and Hello to our sandals and shorts very soon! Hopefully.

If you're like me, the colder weather tends to be a time when I allow my skin to hibernate a little, in more ways than one.
Shaving is not usually on my top priority list during a bath only unless I know I'm headed out and will be showing some leg. I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one.

Another nuisance can be the whole shaving routine. I'm a busy lady! My baths/showers are usually very long but with the kids around, I've learned to master the art of quick yet efficient baths.
Now that the legs will be exposed more often this coming season, I will need to think of quicker ways to shave without the added time.

Say hello to the Schick® Intuition® Pure Nourishment™ Razor!
Stocking up on store shelves this month, this new razor gets the job done in half the time!

Made for dry skin (another issue I have), the Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment razor lathers, shaves and moisturizes during shaving—all in one easy step, with no need for shave gel, soap or body wash. 

Infused with coconut milk and almond oil, the Pure Nourishment Skin Conditioning Solid™ leaves dry skin feeling noticeably soft, and its four blades and pivoting head follow your contours for a close shave.  

Four blades and pivoting head follow your contours for a close shave.

I love the smell of Coconut and Almond!
The moment I opened my Schick Razor Package, I could smell it. Amazing!
 Coconut milk and almond oil have long been lauded for their skin-benefiting qualities. 

Here is what's included in each package.

The Razor, an extra blade and a Razor holder that you can stick onto our shower wall.

I would not, however, recommend you do this unless you can get it to stick very well as I found mine kept falling because the razor is quite heavy and the walls can get wet easily.

The new Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment razor and refills will be available starting in February 2013 at grocery, drug and mass retail outlets across Canada for approximately $11.99. 

The first 25 to email me at info@carolaucourant.com with the subject line "Schick Intuition Razor Review" will be sent over one to try for themselves!
Plus for reviewing and providing your honest review to me, you will be entered to win a $50 Visa Gift Card.

Legal Line:
Schick® will use your personal information in accordance with its Privacy Policy and as detailed in applicable contest rules.

Thanks for you interest! 

**Disclaimer: As part of participation of a product campaign with Schick, I have received samples and compensation; however the opinions expressed are my very own.

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New Nicole by OPI 2013 Collection & #Giveaway

My fellow Nail Polish Aficionado's... say HELLO to Spring/Summer 2013 from Nicole by OPI!

Since the days of cabbage patch dolls and New Kids on the Block to now, I've always had a love for nail polish.
Believe it when I tell you... I know my polishes.
See exhibit A below of just a few in my current collection.

Exhibit A

So you can imagine my excitement when I received the press release and samples of the newest Nicole by OPI 2013 Collection which includes collections from Selena Gomez and one of my absolute favourite shows ever, Modern Family.

I love Nicole by OPI because they contain no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde which is so important to me as a mom to very little ones including a baby.
Their formulas are long-lasting, fast-drying, and true salon-quality.

Those crazy dishes and hand-washed laundry got nothin' on my newly manicured Nicole by OPI nails!

I know because I tried!

I used Back in my Gloria Days... from the Modern Family Collection and added a little bit of Selena Gomez's Confetti Fun on my ring fingers.

Back in my Gloria Days... may just be one of my favourites!
Back in my Gloria Days is a lighter formula so to achieve this look I had to use 2 coats.
Only one coat was used with Confetti Fun.

The New 2013 shades feature two vibrant crème shades of bright pink and rich red and two shimmering hues of deep plum and glossy black.

Plum to Your Senses!
You KNOW this deep, dark plum is the perfect choice.

Please Red-cycle
Do the right thing and wear this apple red over and over.

Totally in the Dark
This shimmery black is completely unexpected.

Still Into Pink
Our love for hot pink will never grow cold.

SELENA GOMEZ COLLECTION

“Selena is an ideal partner for Nicole by OPI. Millions of fans love her for the
same reasons we do; she’s smart, talented, funny – and has an incredible sense of
style,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Nicole by OPI Executive VP & Artistic
Director. “She has that classic ‘girl-next-door’ appeal, but she’s also edgy and fun –
just like the Nicole consumer.

Loving all the sparkle and pinks in the Selena Gomez Collection.
But, my favourite (not to be bias because I happen to LOVE the show), just happens to be the Modern Family Collection.

MODERN FAMILY COLLECTION

“The Nicole consumer embraces the same spirit of diversity and individuality
that’s apparent on the show,” explains Weiss-Fischmann. “The colors inspired by
Modern Family offer a perfect way to express that spirit!” - Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Nicole by OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.

 
The Modern Family Collection includes:

Am I Making Myself Claire?
Make no mistake...I’m liking this lilac.

I Do De-Claire!
Let me just say how frosty cool this soft rose is!

She’s Lily Something
Pink, sparkly stars...so Daddies’ Little Girl-y!

A Like-Haley Story...
Typical teenagers (and their moms!) will love this not-so-typical fuchsia.

My Jay or the Highway!
This trendy taupe is inflexibly cool. Period.

Stand by Your Manny
Be loyal to this periwinkle blue.

Alex by the Books
Look smart in this seafoam green.

Haley Good Lookin’...
She’s cookin’ up plans for this pink super-glitter.
Basking in Gloria
This red-violet is the color of passion.

 Luke of the Draw
Chances are you’ll love this gunmetal glitter.

A Phil’s Paradise
No fooling...this pewter is the real deal.

Candid Cameron
Call this teal just like you see it...gorgeous!

Back in My Gloria Days...
This voluptuous violet has still got it goin’ on!

What’s the Mitch-uation?
This cobalt blue demands an update.

I love them all! See any you like?

The polishes retail for $10.99 each and are available for a limited time at Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart Canada, Jean Coutu, Loblaws, London Drug.

I'm giving one of my readers a chance to win the entire Modern Family Collection {ARV $154}!
Simply enter via rafflecopter below for your chance to win!
**Open to Canadians only**
Ends  2/10.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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CAC's Favourite Spring/Summer 2013 Trends

Pretty Floral Prints, vintage 20's-inspired bouffants and Poppy Reds; this year is looking bright (literally!)

I am always keeping my eyes open for what's on trend although I admit that I am not really a fashion risk-taker and will stick to what's comfortable and suits me.
I think that's the way it should be though.
Fashion is meant to bring your best out and be an expression of who you are not what you see others wearing.
What may look great on another person may not look so amazing on you.

What I always like to do when experimenting with new colours is put it close to my face at a mirror in a well-lit room, usually when I notice a glow oozing from my face, there's a match!
Let me clarify: colours that complement your natural tone should brighten the appearance of your skin and look good with your hair and eyes.
Colours which aren't so great will make you appear pale and washed-out and accentuate any dark shadows or blemishes.
You'll know when once you look in that mirror.

Deciding on the colours that are best for you is very simple. It just depends on your own colouring, which includes your eye and hair colour and skin tone.

In order to tell your skin tone you need to look at it under natural light, checking to see whether there is a hint of golden or rosiness. A hint of apricot or golden undertones means you're "warm" toned, being slightly pink or rosy makes you "cool" toned.

Cool-toned people look best in blue-based colours; warm-toned people will look best in yellow-based colours.

POINTERS:

Warm tones
Warm tones suit natural earth colours such as browns, bronzes and sage greens.
For pretty feminine summer shades try peach and apricot.
If you prefer reds, then try brick red, dark tomato or a burnt orange hue.
Earth greens like olive or jade enhance warm skin tones.
Clean ivory or oyster whites also enhance the warm skin tone type.
For your professional wardrobe, look for clothes in taupe or bright navy. Try brown and gold accessories for maximum impact.

Cool tones
Pure white is a great match for cool skin tones.
Bold raspberries, deep greens, royal blue, plum and pure black are also winners.
Cool-toned people can wear bright ruby red to great effect.
Cool skin tones can also be enhanced by soft pastel blues and pinks.

Pay attention to what you are wearing when friends compliment you on your outfit — it's likely that this colour is a good match for you.

Okay so back to my favourite trends for Spring and Summer 2013!
 
I've had long hair for most of my life (short hair just does not suit my round face!)
I love that the long & sleek hair is back on the trend watch this season. Also, we're seeing the mid-part and deep side-part taking over! Love it!

Great Gatsby! How beautiful are these 20's inspired looks?

My trend-radar is sounding off loudly and I'm not complaining -- love this look!

Coincidence that the much-anticipated (well for me that is!) The Great Gatsby movie is debuting this year? Perhaps.

On top of the hair, look out for Great Gatsby inspired hair pieces too!
 

Oh, and it's not just on trend for the ladies.  Men, we're looking at you! Check out Leonardo DiCaprio's coif -- I'm so not complaining about this one either. *wink, wink*

Now onto the makeup.
Loving these looks for the face this year.

Graphic Liner.
Graphic eyeliner, especially in the vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired hues of turquoise, jade and aqua, goes from ramp to real with ease.

Cherry Red Lips with Neutral Eyes.
I've always been rocking this look -- love it! 

Fresh-faced with Glowing Skin.
Whatever other makeup you choose, the focus this year is on supple, hydrated and healthy skin that radiates with a beautiful mother-of-pearl glow. Extra-vigilant skincare is key. May I introduce you to Mèreadesso?  But till the results kick in, try a light-reflecting primer, liquid foundation applied with a brush and a highlighter.

Now going back to the clothing, check out what I think is "haute" this coming season!
I absolutely adore the abstract and rich florals, chevron patterns, stripes and poppy red! YES!
Pretty, feminine and light.

Mango

And for the home...

 

I'm smitten by all this gorgeousness and excited for the year ahead! 

Have you got  favourite trend for this year?

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Orange You Glad I Didn't Say Orange?

I've never been afraid of colour. 

In fact, if you were to look into my closet, it would be as if you stepped into a rainbow wonderland.

That was until I became a mom, gained those extra pounds and *sigh* became acquainted with a very dear friend, Mr. Black. (not to be mistaken with Mr. Grey... that's a whole different story).

It wasn't until I realized that I can still rock flattering colour in my wardrobe without feeling like a walking Kool-aid mascot.

What a better time to incorporate some luminosity into your life than Spring & Summer?
Of course during the colder months, sparks of bright hues always brings a pleasant surprise -- leave that with the accessories (a girl's best friend).

Two of the colours that I am absolutely enchanted by are Tangerine and Coral.
Both in the same colour family and both very zesty and captivating hues that look striking on all women of all shades and colours, shapes and sizes.

A great way to incorporate bright hues such as these into your wardrobe if your a little colour-shy is to start with accessories -- chunky bracelets, necklaces, earrings, sandals.
And/or some splash of colour with nail polish, blush or lipstick (if you're not a lipstick girl, perhaps even some lip gloss).
Start slow.

Once you've decided you're brave enough to up your colourful wardrobe this summer with larger pieces, I'd say to go with tops first.
Add that colour to your life and most importantly -- have fun with it!

Cheers to a bright summer! 

What's your favourite Spring/Summer 2012 trend?

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{Thirsty Thursdays} Pina Colada Smoothie

Close your eyes and picture this: You're lying on warm white sand, nobody else around but you (and perhaps your other half), the sound of the clear blue waters as they glide from side to side crashing along the shore, the feel of the sun on your skin, the smell of the fresh air, water, sand and palm trees...

What's missing?

How about a refreshing, cool beverage?!

Today as I sit here on my patio indulging in my favourite hot-weather drink, Coconut Water, I couldn't help but let my mind slip away and imagine myself somewhere tropical like Hawaii.

When I taste coconut, I always think of the beautiful beaches and scenery of the Hawaiian Islands.

Here is an easy recipe for a virgin Pina Colada Smoothie I found on Paula Deen that you can enjoy alone or with your family & friends.  It's sure to be a hit!

Pina Colada Smoothie

Ingredients 

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks 
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk 
• 1 banana 
• 1/4 cup ice cubes 
• 2 teaspoons honey, optional 
• pineapple wedges, for garnish

Directions

In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, coconut milk, banana, ice and, if desired, honey. 

Puree until smooth. Pour into 2 large glasses. Garnish each serving with a pineapple wedge.

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Tips & Tricks: Arrange your Flowers like a Pro!

Spring is here!

Farmers markets are starting to reopen and the spring blooms are just bursting with bright and bold colors. They sweet fragrance entices you to buy a bunch. Now what? Here are some simple tips to make your fresh picked bouquet look beyond spectacular and last longer than expected.

1. Clean and Water: Remove any leaves that are going to be submerged in water. This will make your water last longer (ie. cleaner) and your flowers look look clean. Cut stems at angle and put in water immediately.
2. Cut, Refresh, Repeat: It can be tedious, but it will help prolong the life of your flowers. If you don’t have time to change the water, use an opaque vase, to disguise the murky water. Use warm water for everything. Except hydrangeas, they require hot tap water. Tulips don’t need fresh water, so no special treatment for them.
3. Special Stems: Hydrangeas or lilacs are woody and need lots of exposure to the water. Split the stems several inches up from the bottom to expose the white inner part of the stem to the water. For bulbs, tubers and iris, score the bottom of the stem. Also for tulips, use a needle and prick the throat of the tulip to prevent it from growing.
4. Same Colors: Buy flowers that are the from the same color palette for an easy and chic arrangement.
5. No Crowding Please: When using a larger vase or wide mouth bowl, it may require using a large quantity of flowers, but all you need is scotch tape. Create a grid on the top so your flowers will sit in its own section. No crowding!
6. In Your Hands: Hold the flowers in your hand. It is easier to rearrange then placing them in the vase. Once you are satisfied, tie with some string and place in your chosen vessel.
7. Wilt-free: Try not to place your flowers in front of a warm sunny window. The heat will stress your flowers and cause them to wilt.

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