The Beauty Of Sun Protection - Hawaiian Tropic Products For 2013

Hi ladies! It is no secret I am already in love with Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Sunscreen Lotions, but now, there is even more to love from this great sun care brand - Hawaiian Tropic now offers a range of products to help achieve your perfect summer glow!

Now you can have beautiful, radiant skin on the cloudiest of days, thanks to new Hawaiian Tropic Island Radiance Self Tanning Lotion ($10.99). Available in both medium and medium dark shades, Island Radiance lotion is a rich crème blend with a light tropical fragrance that provides 12 hours of moisture and flawless, natural-looking colour for summer and beyond. Whether you are looking to achieve a sun-kissed look without exposure to the sun's rays, or you would like to enhance your already existing summer glow, new Island Radiance self tanner provides your skin with that touch of color that is perfect for you.

Also new for 2013, the Silk Hydration product line has added Silk Hydration After Sun Moisturizer ($9.99) to its popular line of SPF 30 and 50 Sunscreens Lotions. Infused with mango and shea butter, Silk Hydration sun care's distinctive dual ribbon formula combines rich, ultra-moisturizing lotion with the cooling and soothing effects of aloe, pampering skin after a day spent in the sun.

I recently suffered from a monstruous allergic reaction to I still don't know what and I was recommended to apply aloe to soothe the itchy red patches but this was the only thing close to aloe that I had on hands, so I gave it a shot. I really appreciated the cooling effect that imediately calmed the itchiness an I actually enjoyed re-applying this through the day!

Whether you are looking for sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection, after sun moisture, or a self tanner, the range of products from Hawaiian Tropic sun care allows Canadian to look and feel their best while staying true to their unique summer style.

The range of Hawaiian Tropic sun care products are now available at most major retailer accross Canada. prices range from $9.99 to $11.99.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Summer Essentials

I know, I'm a bit late on this, but I really wanted to share with you ladies the products I reached for the most this summer because some are really little gems!

I have always overlooked after-sun lotions because I'm lazy and I figured out that a normal body moisturizer would work just as well but Burt's Bees Aloe & Linden Flower After Sun Soother completely changed my mind! It was not until I got a really bad sunburn on my chest, arms and belly - I forgot to re-apply sunscreen after going swimming - that I realized how this product was a miracle worker - my sunburn was completely gone within only two days and my skin never showed signs of sun damages! I was expecting this lotion to be liquid and runny but no, it's more on the thick side but still, it sinks right into the sin and it feels so refreshing, and I like the light pleasant herbal scent.

I recently introduced you ladies to my new blog series, Project Farewell Casper, in which I share with you my fake tan adventures, and St Moriz Dark Instant Self Tanning Mousse was the second self tanner that I featured. It was tons of trouble to find a UK seller willing to ship to Canada but all of this hassle was really worth it in the end as this self tanner provides a gorgeous natural deep brown tan, exactly what I was looking for! I hate how it barely lasts three days on me even if I make sure to moisturize twice a day but I guess you get what you pay for.

I recently ordered XEN-TAN Deluxe Tanning Mitt from Apothica because I hated how streaky and patchy St Moriz applied when I used gloves, and as much as I love it because it allows the self tanner to go on soooo smoothly and it makes the whole process a lot easier and quicker, I was a bit disappointed at how cheap the mitt looked... I was expecting it to look like this but mine  does not have the writting and it's not very velvety...

The main reason why I was never keen on depilatory creams or lotions is because of the scent - isn't it awful? If you are able to forget that smell for about 3 minutes, you might actually really enjoy Veet Hydro' Restor Hair Removal Cream*. I absolutely fell in love with the thick texture that was easy to apply on the skin, and the spatula really comes in handy to quickly remove the product without mess. I was actually very surprised to see that the smoothness really lasts longer than shaving - I could see the hair slowly growing back on the third day. I'm also very happy with the results because my legs were soooo smooth and the hair removal cream absolutely didn't dry them. I didn't even feel the need to use moisturizing lotion after! 

With my super straight hair, I was a bit sceptical about Marc Anthony Beach Spray at first but I must say the results are actually pretty decent. This product does add body and texture to my straight hair while also extra definition to my layers. I was surprised to be left with manageable and touchable beach hair after using the Beach Spray.

I'm really happy with Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration sunscreen lotion product because, having dry and eczema-prone skin, being outdoors in the summer sun can really dry out and irritate my skin even more, but the new product line brings sun protection to a whole new level, with the luxurious hydrating ribbons that leave my skin feeling silky soft. I love how this sunscreen lotion goes on clear, light and non-greasy. Oh, and let's not forget that delicious signature coconut fragrance!

Let's not forget about sunglasses, of course! These are my super old aviator sunglasses that I got at my local flea market a looooooong time ago - I think I was in high school! I wore them to death as you can see, they went with me on all my trips, from Wildwood to Quebec, and I think I'm actually due for a new pair as they barely stand straight anymore! Should I get some other aviator sunglasses? This pink silver mirror shaded pair is so cute, although these black Ray Ban are a classic. Maybe I should consider some Ray Ban? My boyfriend has a pair that looks like this one but I really like the "prints" on the frame of this Ray Ban RB4105 Folding Wayfarer 710/51 - which brings me to Wayfarer, hmmm... Have you seen something as cool as these
Spy HELM KEN BLOCK EDITION HHCU131? OK, not really my style... I prefer these Tom Ford, which have a little retro vibe.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N2 Iridescent Beige and N19 Iridescent Icy Pink

My first foray into MAKE UP FOR EVER products were the new Rouge Artist Natural lipsticks and let me tell you that it did not take much time for me to fall in love with these ultra creamy and moisturizing babies that provides light coverage with a soft, shiny finish, which is exactly what I'm looking for in a lipstick in the summer! I have found these to be quite buildable for a more intense but never overpowering look.

I kept hearing so many great things about Carmex Lip Balm Original Jar and being a lip balm junkie, I just had to try it. At $1.98 at Walmart, it was pretty hard to resist! I think I withheld for so long because I was afraid that camphor and phenol could make my lips react (what usually happen with lip-tingling formulas), but so far, I have nothing to report except that this is an amazing lipbalm that I don't have to re-apply every second and I'm so glad I finally decided to give it a try!

I have never been a fan of waterproof mascaras, but Anastasia came out a very clever solution -  Lash Genius, which is a clear waterproof topcoat. I tested this product while swimming at the beach and also under the shower. If I only blink to get the water out of my eyes, Lash Genius stays put perfectly, but if I rub and insist on the lashes, it will start to show signs of fatigue - I noticed some of my lashes stick together, but then again, nothing dramatic!

*Please note that this product is NOT cruelty-free

Disclaimer: Sponsored post

Soak Up More Than Just The Sun - What’s New From Hawaiian Tropic This Year‏

I literally jumped in happiness when I discovered the new Hawaiian Tropics products waiting at my doorstep - is it silly to get excited about sunscreens? Well, I don't think so, and please keep on reading to understand why!

Luxurious moisture or sun protection? It doesn’t have to be either or, thanks to the most recent Hawaiian Tropic product innovation to hit shelves this season. The new Silk Hydration sunscreen lotions, available in SPF 10 ($9.99), 30 and 50 ($10.99), is the first and only sunscreen with hydrating ribbons for continuous in-sun moisture, while protecting skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The lightweight lotions provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and up to 12 hours of moisturization.

This is the new Hawaiian Tropic product I was the most excited about because, having dry and eczema-prone skin, being outdoors in the summer sun can really dry out and irritate my skin even more, but the new product line brings sun protection to a whole new level, with the luxurious hydrating ribbons that leave my skin feeling silky soft. 

The Silk Hydration lotions infused with silk protein and shea butter replenishes moisture, allowing you to pamper your skin while providing protection from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. I love how this sunscreen lotion goes on clear, light and non-greasy. Oh, and let's not forget that delicious signature coconut fragrance!

Also new for 2012, Hawaiian Tropic has introduced Shimmer Effect SPF 30 ($10.99), which uses mica mineral shimmer to highlight skin tone. I must say I was sceptical at first - who wants to look like a giant disco ball at the beach? - but I was surprised by how this sunscreen actually subtly beautifies my skin.

L - R: without flash and with flash

The mica minerals in this sunscreen give your skin instant radiance, but have no fear, I am really talking about subtle shimmers to highlight your tan and infuse your skin with a healthy glow. Containing moisturizing antioxidants, this sunscreen is non-greasy and goes on sheer.

For the sun lover and outdoor enthusiast who is looking for more sun protection, the new Sheer Touch SPF 85 sunscreen ($11.99) is a photostable sunscreen which provides sustained UVA and UVB protection. Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 85 sunscreen provides high protection in a lightweight lotion with the signature tropical fragrance.

I was sceptical about this product because last year, I found the Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen SPF 45 at my local Dollarama and I was a bit disappointed because it was hard to apply and rub on the skin, but now I realize why - the new formula is labelled "lightweight feel", and it really is. With an SPF as high as 85, I'm not afraid of sunburns anymore!

The new Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care products are available at most major retailers across Canada and also at Well.ca (with free shipping!). Prices range from $9.99 to $11.99.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Shopping: Apothica, Wal-Mart, La Senza & Dollarama

Too Faced Leopard Love Complexion Perfection Kit ($29.70) I've been debating a loooong time wether I should get it or not because most of the reviews I read about this product agreed on one point: the shades are too sheer. I decided to order it anyway because I couldn't resist the leopard print designs. I plan to review this kit in another post so I don't want to talk too much about it here, but I still want to say that yes, the leopards are all very sheer.

L - R: Peach Leopard, Candy Leopard, Pink Leopard

Avène Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream ($23.00) I have been struggling with dry and chapped lips all my life and nothing seems to heal them completely. I think it's due to eczema, but even if I use steroid creams and the irritation goes away, it comes back within a week and it makes me sick! I was discussing this issue with my friend Ariane who is a sale assistant in a drugstore and she recommended me this product as it's meant to restore the skin barrier and minimizes cutaneous irritation. I really hope this cream will help!

XEN-TAN Deep Bronze Instant Self-Tan (on sale for $19.28) I was very eager to try something from XEN-TAN but I always thought their products were too pricey. I finally decided to take the plunge when I saw this one on sale (it was originally $26). I was looking for a deep dark tan but I had no idea which self tanner to choose, there's so many to choose from! I read reviews on blogs and I finally decided to try the Deep Bronze Instant Self-Tan.

With every Apothica order you make come some samples. This time I received a sample of The Art of Shaving Pre-Shave Oil and some band-aids in a very handy little Avène packaging to keep in my handbag.

I'm very impressed at how fast my Apothica order was delivered - I made my order on July 6, it was shipped on July 7 and I received it the next Monday, July 11! How great is that?

Oh and if you plan to order from Apothica, use the coupon code PACK10 for 10% off (:

Leopard print heels (on sale for $5) Everytime I'm in Wal-Mart, I just have to have a look at the shoes section, and I remember lusting over those heels for some times now, but they were a little too pricey for me and they didn't have my size anyway. You can imagine my surprise when I saw them in the sale section last week and decided to try on one of the last two pairs left just for fun... and it fit! Come on, $5 for some fierce leopard print heels? OMG!

Clairol Natural Instincts Vibrant in Dark Brown (on sale for $5.97) I knew about the original Natural Instinct range but never actually tried it because the color is claimed to last only up to 28 shampoos, but when the new Natural Instincts Vibrant range came out, I knew I had to try it! What makes these hair dyes even more interesting is that in each box is included Clairol's first ever Week 2 Color Refresher, which is a nourishing crème formula that deposits color pigments 15 days after coloring, replenishing key tones that color loses over ime. How genius is that?

Cottonelle Fresh Flushable Moist Wipes (free) I had a coupon for a free tub of these wipes, yey! Moist wipes always come in handy for those early morning when I'm in a rush before school.

Panties from La Senza (on sale 10 for $30) I was in Montreal with my mother when we walked by La Senza and noticed the huge sign indicating the 10 for $30 sale... Who could resist new panties at such a nice price? We must have spent half an hour picking five panties each LOL

Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen SPF 45 ($2) The second I smelled this, I knew I had to have it! I have never tried Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen products before but I've heard a lot about them - especially about their scent - so for only $2, I thought, why not? I can't help it but when I'm in Dollarama, I always wonder why this or that product ended up there, and I've been told that most of the time it's simply because of the packaging (the color has been changed - even for the slightest - or the packaging has been completely redesigned). In the case of this product, I have looked up the website and I can't find the SPF 45 sunscreen in the list of products, so maybe it has been discontinued?