it is bum bum time
Foreword
Body care is my favorite topic. After all, the skin is the largest organ and it deserves all the TLC in the World. This leads me to today's guest star, a little friend from Brazil that needs no introduction. Are the rumors about its greatness true though?
Curious? Then please keep on scrolling
My Skin: dry, sensitive
About the Product
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream (48 USD; Made in USA) - is an award-winning nourishing body cream that tightens, firms, and moisturizes the skin in one go.
Packaging: iconic at this point, the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream comes in a weighty plastic jar with a big lid and a curvy bottom. In it, you get a protective second lid that prevents the product from drying out or spilling. Currently, you can choose from two sizes including small (75 ml/ 2.5 oz) and big (240 ml/ 8.1 oz). Refills are available for big jars and cost four dollars less. Sol de Janeiro often launch limited edition jumbo- or medium-sized creams, so it is worth keeping an eye out.
Recyclable ♻️
Formula: the cream is essentially a water-based product rich in Phenyl Trimethicone (silicone, occlusive layer), Dodecane (hydrocarbon, prevents moisture loss), and Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration).
😊 PROS
Coconut Oil (nourishment), Açaí Oil (antioxidant, source of Vitamin C), Cupuaçu Butter (combats free radicals, deeply nourishes), Brazil Nut Seed Oil (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory), Carrot Seed Oil (anti-aging properties), Guaraná Seed Extract (antioxidant, protects from sun damage), and many more skin-loving natural ingredients.
☹️ CONS
This is a fragranced product. Parfum is listed high on the ingredient list, which might not be good news for those, whose skin is intolerant to it. My skin is very sensitive, however, I have not had an adverse reaction to the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream. There is also a small amount of Mica here, merely to add a subtle hint of shimmer. It is pretty inoffensive and barely noticeable. If you want a shimmer-free alternative, you could opt for any other cream from the Sol de Janeiro line.
Vegan🌱 Cruelty-free🐇
Texture: silky-smooth, creamy consistency that spreads and absorbs with ease. Neither sticky nor greasy.
Scent: a delicious gourmand blend of Salted Caramel, Pistachio, and Vanilla. This scent is warm and one to remember as it is long-lasting. It is the brand's iconic Cheirosa 62. You can read more about this and other Sol de Janeiro fragrances in a separate review here.
Application: even though the name hints at "bum bum", do not get confused. You can easily use the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream all over your body. Massage it in a circular motion for ultimate absorption. Of course, be mindful of how much you use. I would say less is more.
first impression
Skin feels instantly soft and hydrated. There is a subtle glow.
long-term use
Skin is noticeably smoother. It looks and feels great to the touch. I can't vouch for firmness though, given my young age, but I will say that long-lasting hydration and care is this formula's strongest suit.
Wear: the sensation of well-moisturized skin prevails. So does the scent. Want to make a statement? Layer the Cheirosa 62 on top of the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream.
Verdict
Tropical vacation, caramel ice cream, warm sun, kisses under the starry night. This product evokes so many memories you have yet to experience. There is some sweet nostalgia to the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and besides the scent, this product is one of the most nourishing body cream formulations available at Sephora. If you have dry skin and want something that does not just smell delicious, but also nourishes and protects, look this way. I can't begin to tell you how many jars of this cream I have gone through over the years and it still hits the mark. A++
More online:
sephora.com (US)
cultbeauty.com (Global)
Purchased product; full disclaimer here