Posh Beauty Blog’s favorite beauty products for July 2014
By Carla Snuggs

When I first started Posh Beauty Blog, I decided I was only going to blog about the things I LOVE – to introduce readers to things that will beautify their lives. However, so many products and ideas come across my desk throughout the month and unfortunately, I don’t have enough time to give kudos and praise and to highlight all of them.

Going forward Posh Beauty Blog will feature a monthly roundup of the some of the BEST products tried by myself (or contributors) throughout the month in the categories of beauty, health and lifestyle. Here are some favorites for July 2014.

BioElixia® BodyShaper Radiance Body Cleanser and BioElixia® BodyShaper Firming Toning Body Lotion

BioElixia® is an Australian made and owned brand and their products are free from parabens, formaldehydes, sulphates, phthalates, paraffins, artificial colors and dyes, SLS and SLEs and DEAs. I use BioElixia’s Stretch Mark Diminishing Cream religiously. Recently, I tried the BodyShaper Radiance Body Cleanser ($20.50, BioElixia.com) and the BodyShaper Firming Toning Body Lotion ($25.50, BioElixia.com). The cleanser is gentle and hydrating; it contains fruit enzymes and skin conditioning minerals that exfoliate the skin, so it’s a great way to exfoliate without a loofah. The body lotion helps firm and tighten problem areas (try it on your thighs). So, it’s great for the summer when you’re showing lots of skin! 

Block Island Organics Natural Organic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 15

For safe, effective and lovable sun care products, you must try Natural Organic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 15 Why? Block Island Organics’s philosophy is to actively enjoy the outdoors and their motto is "Play Smart. Play Safe.  Non-Toxic Suncare." It’s vegan, paraben-free, phthalate -free, fragrance free and it’s not tested on animals. This sunscreen feels very light and non-greasy on the skin so that means it won’t clog your pores. And best of all, Posh Beauty Blog readers can enjoy 20% off from now until August 6, 2014. Use code: poshbeauty ($24.99, Blockislandorganics.com). 

Sublime Beauty Ageless Line Smoother with Hyacare Filler

Diminish fine lines and get flawless skin with Sublime Beauty Ageless Line Smoother with Hyacare Filler. The formulation utilizes Matrixyl, a powerful peptide that encourages the production collagen and keeps skin supple and youthful. It also uses a compound based on the essential hyaluronic acid, which plumps the skin and makes you look more youthful, and Argireline (known as the natural botox), which helps smooth wrinkles and fine lines. This is definitely an anti-aging essential ($45, Amazon.com and Sublimebeautyshop.com).

Altchek MD Collection

Earlier this month Posh Beauty Blog wrote about treatments to correct dark spots and uneven skin tones. I wish we’d added this product to the list: Altchek MD’s Brightening Serum - Skin Tone Corrector.  The complete Altchek MD collection is sold exclusively at ULTA Beauty stores nationwide and contains alpha hydroxy acids, resveratrol, Vitamin C and formulas rich in anti-oxidants to reduce the signs of aging.

I use Altchek MD Brightening Serum (29.99, Ulta.com) during the day under my moisturizer to even my skin tone and brighten my skin. At night, I use Altcheck MD Night Treatment - Restorative Serum ($29.99, Ulta.com), which encourages overnight renewal, firms, hydrates and improves my skintone. They’re both paraben-free and fragrance-free! 

Amarte Aqua Line

Amarte, the prestige Korean skin care brand, launched a new Aqua Line with four light, fresh skin care focused on natural antioxidant brightening and hydration. Amarte was previously highlighted here. I’m a fan of the Amarte Aqua Lotion® ($75, AmarteSkinCare.com) and Amarte Aqua Cream® ($93, AmarteSkinCare.com). 

The Aqua Lotion is one of my new favorite facial moisturizers; It’s so luxe! It’s rich in antioxidants (which brightens) and it contains natural arbutin and retinol to smooth and soften. Amarte Aqua Lotion is water-based so it’s very hydrating and lightweight. Aqua Cream is a hydration serum that controls oil, so it’s perfect for summer. This 1% retinol cream softens, hydrates and evens skin tones. If you’re looking for splurge, this is it! #treatyourself

Comodynes Radiant Glow Body: Instant Body Bronzing Gel

Last month I discussed how I use bronzers to enhance my skintone. I am so glad I discovered Comodynes Radiant Glow Body: Instant Body Bronzing Gel. It’s paraben-free and ultra-moisturizing. I love it because it my skin looks healthy and sun-kissed without the stickiness of some gels and it doesn’t stain your clothing ($23, Comodynes.net). 

Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant

Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant is an all-natural deodorant that neutralizes underarm odor and eliminates wetness - without the use of harmful chemicals like aluminum, propylene glycol, and phthalates. The Lavender + Sage, smells heavenly and is my absolute favorite but you can also try the fragrance-free if that’s your thing. Tested the deodorant at the gym and it kept me fresh and dry ($9, Schmidtsdeodorant.com),

MRI Surge

Whenever I use a workout supplement, I look for one that tastes great, is stimulant free and is low in calories. MRI Surge Pre-Training supplement is the perfect pre-workout supplement for both men and women. It’s just 10 calories per serving. Simply mix 1/2 of a scoop daily with water 0-30 minutes before training. MRI Surge gives you the energy to go the extra mile and you won’t crash because it’s stimulant-free. It supports optimal blood flow, energy, stamina, focus and reduced muscle damage. MRI Surge comes in both Mixed Berry and Lemonade flavors. Love the Lemonade ($39.99, Mri-performance.com).

Angelo David VOL Volumizing Spray

Volumize your hair and support a good cause! Angelo David's VOL Volumizing Spray transforms fine, limp hair while adding incredible fullness. It’s lightweight, so you get volume without the stiffness. VOL Volumizing Spray’s formulation conditions with silk and wheat proteins, Panthenol, Evening Primrose and avocado for extra strength, hydration and protection. This means your color will stay vibrant and your hair will look lush and healthy. Plus, $1.00 of every purchase is donated to Lupus.org ($18.50, Angelo David Salon or Angelodavid.com).

SoCal Curls Hair Curling Tie

SoCal Curls Hair Curling Tie makes it easy to create gorgeous, beachy waves. It only takes a minute to wrap, 20-30 minutes to set, and you’ll look cute while you’re wearing it! I love to take this with me while I’m traveling because I can spend the day at the beach or pool and later, when I remove the curling tie, I have perfect curls for a night out. Pack less and leave your flat iron and curling iron at home!  Check out the video above for more info ($18.99, Socalcurls.com)

Some products received for editorial consideration // All opinions are my own

What extraordinary beauty products did you try during the month of July? Leave your comments below!