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A box of chocolates might be a delicious—OK, really delicious—Valentine’s Day gift, but can it protect your skin and combat environmental damage? What about preventing water loss in skin and increasing collagen production? Turns out that cocoa butter—a main ingredient in chocolate and a natural aphrodisiac—can when topically applied. This Valentine’s Day, profess your love with these skin and beauty products that contain pulse-pumping aphrodisiacs to get you in the mood, while also working wonders on skin.
Shea Terra White Chocolate Whipped Shea Butter, $22
The Aphrodisiac: Notoriously sensual chocolate contains feel-good chemicals phenylethylamine and serotonin which are released by our brains when we’re happy or feeling loving and passionate.
The Product: Made with 30 percent organic cocoa butter, this ultra-rich and luxurious body cream reinforces the skin’s lipid barrier to keep it soft and hydrated, while nourishing Shea Butter softens the skin.
Manuka Doctor ApiNourish Rejuvenating Skin Cream, $53
The Aphrodisiac: Vitamin B-rich honey isn’t just sweet; it also contains boron, which helps the body regulate estrogen and testosterone levels. An age-old symbol of fertility and love, honey is the original aphrodisiac. In fact, the term “honeymoon” came from mead, an alcoholic beverage made from honey drunk by newlyweds in ancient Persia.
The Product: This facial moisturizer contains anti-aging, purified bee venom as well as supremely moisturizing Manuka honey and firming royal jelly. Independent clinical trial results prove that it leaves skin looking and feeling improved in just four weeks.
C.O. Bigelow Vanilla Perfume Oil, $15
The Aphrodisiac: Sexy and sensual, the scent of vanilla stimulates emotions and memories, while also triggering a euphoric effect for an electrifying February 14th.
The Product: Apply a drop of this sensuous perfume oil to pulse points and enjoy the intoxicating scent of vanilla. Easily added to body moisturizer, or enjoyed on its own, this decadent fragrance makes for an intimate, romantic treat for both the gift-giver and receiver.
Beecology Java Soappuccino Coffee Soap, $6
The Aphrodisiac: Caffeine gets your heart fluttering and increases your adrenaline levels—just like your Valentine. Studies have also revealed that a cup of joe can increase levels of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with the pleasure system of the brain.
The Product: An all-natural soap that’s infused with both coffee and cocoa powder, this Beecology favorite packs two aphrodisiacs in one product. The scent deodorizes while the coffee granules exfoliate the skin, and natural moisturizers leave skin soft and smooth.
Recipe for Men Facial Cleanser, $25
The Aphrodisiac: With its spicy, distinct smell, ginger awakens the olfactory glands and its warming properties stimulate the circulatory system, getting blood flowing.
The Product: A deep-cleansing detoxifier, this men’s facial cleanser is designed to remove excess sebum and prevent unwanted shine. It contains soothing aloe, firming brown algae, bacteria-fighting cucumber and antioxidative and anti-inflammatory ginger.
