Viktor and Rolf Spicebomb and Spicebomb Extreme | Father's Day Gifting From Viktor And Rolf

Viktor and Rolf Spicebomb ($92; sephora.com) is an oriental, woody, spicy composition and one of the nicest men’s fragrances I have come across so far. It could be a unisex scent and isn't too overwhelmingly strong. The notes include Bergamot, Grapefruit, Pink Pepper, Paprika, Saffron, Cinnamon, Vetiver, Tobaco and Leather. The opening is very fresh, slightly spicy, but not too heady. I can actually get a whiff of the cinnamon too, but it fades pretty quickly. The dry down is very soft, just a tad leathery and quite fresh. Spicebomb is something I have personally tried on myself and have quite liked how it wore through the day and the longevity, especially. There is a newer addition to the line, Spicebomb Extreme which is a stronger, intense version of the original. Spicebomb Extreme ($120; sephora.com) is a bit more masculine, stronger with excellent longevity and more of an aromatic, lavender-tobacco-black pepper concoction that is perfect for the fall-winter.

*Spicebomb is a press sample. Spicebomb Extreme purchased by me.

Five New Sunscreen Finds To Try Out This Summer

Some new summer sunscreen finds that I have been using on rotation and perfect for dry-combination skin without the greasy, heavy feel.

Sente is a brand new to me and I am very impressed by their two new sunscreen launches - the Invisible Shield Full Physical Sunscreens ($49 each; sentelabs.com) , one in a Tinted version  with  SPF 52 and the other, a sheer, non-tinted version with SPF 49. Both have Broad Spectrum Protection and are very weightless For a full physical sunscreen, they are both very light, don't feel thick or greasy and don’t leave a white cast. The tinted one adapts to my skintone and can be worn under makeup to even out skin tone. I’d definitely recommend these two. 

The Algenist ALIVE Daily Prebiotic Balancing Moisturizer SPF 15 ($40; sephora.com) is a daily moisturizer with an SPF15. Much like everything else from Algenist, this one too is great. I use it in rotation with my other moisturizers during the day and love how it sits under makeup. It can get a tad greasy on very oily skin types, but feels perfect on my dry-combination skin. It also feels just a tad heavier and richer than some others I’ve tried which is something to keep in mind. Another great product to travel with since the tube is quite small and travel friendly. 

Australian Gold does some great botanical sunscreens for everyone. The Botanical Sunscreen Natural Spray SPF 70($16.99 ; ulta.com) is an invisible spray (combination of physical and chemical sunscreens) that is super quick and easy to use with a completely invisible feel, while the Mineral SPF 70 Sunscreen Lotion is one that I absolutely love for the body and face. There’s a slight tropical scent to these two that can feel a bit strong, but dissipates as the day goes by. I have had great luck with Australian Gold sunscreens in the past and would definitely recommend these! 

*Press Samples 

Narciso Rodriguez Pure Musc Eau de Parfum

Pure Musc Eau de Parfum by Narciso Rodriguez ($126 for 3.3oz; bloomingdales.com) is a new launch this spring, a floral-woody-musk composition with notes of musk, orange blossom, jasmine, cashmeran, amber and patchouli. I’m a big fan of the Narciso Rodriguez line of fragrances and this one is a gorgeous floral-musk concoction with a feminine, sophisticated touch. The opening is quite floral and very typical of the other NR fragrances with mostly jasmine, orange blossom and a bit of the musk. As the fragrance dries down, it settles down to a softer scent and the musky notes get stronger, while the amber and patchouli linger in the faintest way. Patchouli can be a strong note, but the floral-musk keeps it from becoming too strong and heady. The sillage and longevity from this one is excellent and I would absolutely reach for it any time of the year. Its a sophisticated, grown up scent that isn’t too sweet or playful, yet has soft, floral notes that keep it pleasant and clean. 

*Press Sample