Andre Lorent: Daily Rehydrating and Anti-aging Sunscreen with SUNDRISOL7™ #Review #AndreLorent

Sunscreen is a year round product I use on a daily basis. I have tried practically every brand from organic, natural ingredients based and every SPF number you can think of. I have been burned and not just by the sun when it has come to sunscreen products. Some protect from the sun very well but do nothing for my skin’s health. I end up with clogged pores and sometimes even breakouts. I don’t believe in this day and age that I need to settle for a product and it seems Andre Lorent believes the same!

Andre Lorent is a beauty company, which offers products for skincare, to hair and even beauty application items like brushes. They carry a little bit of everything! I was sent a bottle of their Daily Rehydrating and Anti-Aging sunscreen. The first difference I noticed, was that this product is a multi-tasker, serving as protection but also nourishing your skin.

Ingredients (as listed on the website):
Key Ingredients include– Sundrisol7, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Seaweed Extract, Algae Extract and Orchid Extract.

Active ingredients– Octinoxate 7.5%, Homosalate 6%, Octisalate 5%, Avobenzone 3%, and Zinc Oxide 10%

Verdict:

I used the product for a total period of 3 weeks. It was my go-to sunscreen and I used it on my face, neck and decolletage. I also wanted to see how well Andre Lorent’s daily rehydrating sunscreen worked with my skin’s needs, so I forwent any use of primers. I wanted to really test how the product performed on it’s own and if it caused any skin blemishes or problems, something that a primer could block from happening or could be a contributor, so I went with just the Andre Lorent’s product and make-up for the days I went out.

I can state the product protects very well with it’s SPF 30 rating. The SPF amount was perfect for the delicate areas and the formula did not leave a white visible film that is both unappealing to the eye and tends to rub off on anything you touch. I applied, distributed the product evenly and the formula just disappeared, but I was still left with breathable skin. On the days I applied cosmetics, I did not experience any interactions with my foundation, such as peeling or beading up that tends to happen if you even perspire just a bit. Everything remained just as I left it and that is really a sign of a sunscreen that has a base that is not only welcoming to your skin, but can play well with other products like make-up. As long as I did not get wet or over perspire, I was satisfied with not getting burned, so the Andre Lorent sunscreen passed the protection phase and exceeded my expectations.

Retail Price Point: $24.95 via Amazon and $27.95 via the website, however they are sold-out on the website.

Next, came the skin health factor. My skin still felt comfortable and not suffocated by a nasty film like so many other sunscreens tend to do. The formula felt lightweight and I did not experience any pore blockage when I used it on a daily basis. After washing my face, the product did not leave any residue and calling a rehydrating formula is spot-on. My skin did not feel over dry after washing and remained healthy. The Sundrisol7 is a proprietary ingredient and it’s suppose to aid with your skin’s anti-aging needs that are caused by damage from the sun. The blend blocks UVA and UVB rays that are the leading cause to wrinkles, sun spots, pigmentation, and so forth. I felt my skin was protected and did not even get lobster red cheeks when I used the sunscreen, so it does work at protecting you from sun damage. I think with continued use, the user would be able to receive sufficient protection from aging caused by sun exposure. With the formula’s hydrating qualities, you also will visibly see nourished skin that remains soft when touched and glowing from being healthy, versus a sun burn!

Connect with Andre Lorent and their products at:

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• #AndreLorent

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Andre Lorent.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

 

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Sacar Stationary: 100 Kraft Tags with 10 ml Jute Twine #Review #SacarStationery

 

I have been in a crafting mode that started in Spring and seems to be going into Fall and beyond. I’m always about changing your surroundings because as much as familiarity is welcoming, it can grow dull. I don’t want to look at the same rooms and walls and day after day they remain the same. Sprucing up your surroundings should be given the same energy you would dedicate when gifting someone. So, why not gift yourself too?

I love “raw materials” that bring in the natural aspect and can easily become accent pieces. Love the burlap with printed images that take the dull and makes it all your own creation. Sacar Stationary was kind enough to offer me 100 of their Kraft tags for review. They come in a cute package and even with twine. I think these little guys are more than tags and can easily serve multi-purpose uses. I love that they have no holiday or season attached to them, you just make them your own and they apply to any project all year round. I decided to time myself and in 20 minutes I was able to make a seasonal banner. I figure you know how they say in magazines how a gal can put on their make-up successfully in 20 minutes? Well, I’m putting on “make-up” on my surroundings and this is my homage of saying goodbye to Summer, which was beautiful but too hot and start welcoming in Autumn. I always save clip art or images, so I have them ready to use. Printed them in the fast and the economic setting to give them an aged look, some color pencils, on some of the tags edges I just used those scissors that cut with a patter and Voila’! I was done. Oh’ don’t forget the all mighty glue stick that makes the magic happen and 18 minutes later I was finished. I can’t wait to make fall leaves and even tag gifts with self-made personalized tags. Better than any tag out there and what I love about Sacar Stationary, they keep the price economical too!

Retail Price Point: $9.95 and free shipping with Prime via Amazon for 100 tags that comes with 10m of Jute Twine.

Size of Product: 9 x 5.4cm (3.54 x 2.12in approx.) Tags and 10m (32ft approx.) of Natural Jute Twine.

The stock of the paper is nice and thick, so I will be buying damask pattern stamps and will also be stamping some images on these beauties. You just can’t go wrong with the quantity and quality of these Sacar Stationary Kraft Tags!

Connect with Sacar Stationary at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• #SacarStationery

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Sacar Stationary.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

 

Trilane: Retinol + Vitamin C Anti-Aging Moisturizer #Review #Trilane

Trilane is part of Healthy Directions LLC., which has an extensive line of serums, moisturizers to battle all your anti-aging needs.

I was sent a bottle of their 100% Natural Retinol and Vitamin C moisturizer. The Trilane line reflects several acting agents and the ones that stood the most, was Olive Squalane and Jojoba Esters. The rest of the ingredients are familiar from Pomegranate, Cucumber, Licorice and so forth.

• Olive Squalane-
  Upon researching what makes this ingredient different and more powerful, I discovered that it is really just an emollient. It is also a Vegan friendly alternative as Shark Squalane is derived from their liver. I’m not a vegetarian, but the latter is not exactly something I want to purchase and much less apply to my skin…..no matter the claims. Olive Squalane provides a lightly formulated oil like substance that is rich in lipids. Much like olive oil when it comes to the beneficial properties, but you have some differences that can be felt in how the final product feels and applies. It’s thinner and provides a rich barrier, something you want to seek out because you want a moisturizer that applies thin and absorbs quickly, but leaves no oily slick behind. I tried seeing if Squalane as an individual source differed greatly when it came to nutritional properties, like is it more potent (percentage wise) but could not allocate any clinical information stating so. After pages and pages, I could only find that it penetrates (absorbs) into the skin quickly at a rate of 2MM per second when the agent is used singularly (by itself). So, it gives you an idea on why it was added to this moisturizer!

 

• Jojoba Esters-
  Jojoba is always identified as an oil and it’s really technically a wax, but still an emollient. You have a wax that has been boiled down to produce a purer and more intensified solution. Jojoba is rich in fatty acids, so you not only get improvement in how a product applies but a richer and more nutritional formula. Due to Jojoba being close to the properties found in human sebum, you can see why it’s so “skin friendly”.

Retail Price Point: $42.53 via Amazon, but make sure to scroll down and use the code to get a discount!  The product retails for $44.99 (with Auto-ship) via the website.

Verdict:
The Trilane Retinol + Vitamin C anti-aging moisturizer, is simple when it comes to the properties that make-it up, so I was looking forward in trying a product that can cause less interactions, but still provide results. I tried the product for a period of 2 weeks and stopped using any alternate Vitamin C and Retinol product. I figure this was a 2-in-1 product, so let us see how it does on it’s own. While I was very happy with the moisturizer and how well it applied, distributed and absorbed, I did find I was not satisfied with the Retinol level. I have been using OTC products with 2.5% and none was declared on the package from Healthy Directions, but I did feel I needed to amp it up and decided to incorporate back my serum (containing Retinol) back by the 2.5 week point. Then I did get what I felt a better edge on keeping any fine lines at bay and I can say the Trilane line does deliver a lot of moisture and I say this again, because it put up with the weather swings we have been experiencing in Southern California. It’s been cloudy and in the 60’s to then the 80’s three days later! Trilane kept my skin’s temperaments at bay because it likes to misbehave when the weather swings like this.

Connect with Trilane and their products at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Save 20% off your first purchase of Trilane Retinol + Vitamin C sold by Healthy Directions on Amazon.com. Promotion code (SAVERETC) expires 12/31/15
• Facebook
• Twitter
• YouTube
• #Trilane

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Trilane (Healthy Directions).  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

 

 

Milagrous Beauty: Natural Exfoliating Facial Massage Konjac Sponge #Review #Milagrous

I have been very eager to try new Konjac sponges from several different companies because trying is really the only way to know what’s the difference with all the infused additions like charcoal, green tea and so forth. I also get to learn what to look for in quality because you see some sponges ranging from $10 to $18. They all claim to do the same and let’s be honest, they look the same via the computer screen.

Konjac Charcoal sponges are usually formulated for oily complexions, acne prone to combination skin. The sponge is still like the original versions, made from the Konjac root, which is a vegetable. The vegetable’s fibers are perfect for gentle exfoliation and detoxifying the skin. The addition of charcoal helps clean out impurities that cause your typical skin problems like blackheads, clogged pores, blemishes to even controlling the oil (sebum) your skin may be susceptible to producing. Due to the product being natural and gentle to the skin’s surface, if you suffer from sensitive skin, this form of washing and exfoliating will not cause further irritation but actually calm your skin. You should see improvements in as little as 2 weeks with daily use.

I notice the Sponge is not formed well (dented)

Lighter in color and texture than other Charcoal Konjac Sponges

I have tried the original/plain Konjac sponges, Charcoal and also a Green Tea versions prior to using the Charcoal sponge from Milagrous Beauty. I first noticed this is the first sponge that arrived in a bag versus a box like most others. The sponge is also not pre-wrapped in a plastic wrap….just sort of dancing in the bag. I notice this sponge feels lighter in weight and density (in dry form) from my other Charcoal based Konjac sponges from different manufactures. I wet the sponge and begin gently exfoliating, using a circular motion and applying light pressure. I notice that the sponge has at the center a more dense portion that feels almost like a knot but 75% of the remainder of the sponge, is not very dense at all. The bathroom’s light reflects through much easily than with other charcoal sponges I have used and this one is more a gray in color as it furthers away from that middle knot I referred to before.

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Results:
My skin does not feel too clean, so I tried a second use and notice the sponge is leaving an almost jelly like residue. I understand the charcoal and root leave a residue but I have never experienced a jelly/sticky film. I have to be super delicate in how I hold the sponge because like any wet product, it becomes softer but this one dimples and collapses badly that I am afraid to poke a nail through and shorten the life span of the sponge.

Retail Price Point: $10.00 via Amazon

You can see here the fray ithe sponge came with

Once wet the fray becomes worse

I used a hook supplied from another Manufacture for proper drying

The product states a shelf life of 3 years on the packaging, which lists Qingdao Fujiale Cosmetic Products Co., Ltd as the manufacture and states to refer to the “sealing” for the date it was made. None was listed or written anywhere on the packaging. Like with all my Konjac sponges, they need to dry and air out to stay clean and reduce any bacteria from producing, so most manufactures include hooks. None was included. Bacteria is bad enough for anyone’s skin and can be worse if you suffer from acne, where you may have open skin caused by pimples…….so maybe using such packaging is not the safest for the product or even user. You add that no hook is supplied and I’m willing to even make the leap that this is a refill as I use the hook I already was supplied by another company.  I was just not too satisfied seeing sponge dust at the bottom of the bag, the sponge is not well shaped/formed, and you have dead links when it comes to the companies Facebook, Twitter to the Website page they supplied as contact information.  The product did not perform like any other Konjac sponge I have used prior to this one and that is even trying to ignore the jelly like residue left on my skin.  You then take into account the price point that is identical to other manufactures where the sponges outperformed this one, so I can’t even say you pay 1/2 and get 1/2 the performance.  You still pay $10 and end up with what I call a sponge.  I just can’t recommend a product that is not consistent to what I have seen and used on the market.  Milagrous Beauty does offer a 100% Money-Back Guarantee, so this may be something to consider if you wish to try their products.

 

Connect with Milagrous Beauty when they are up and running at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• #Milagrous

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Milagrous Beauty.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

 

InstaNatural: Cellulite Cream #Review #InstaNatural

InstaNatural is a company which features a large array of beauty products that range from serums, masks to products that target problem areas that suffer from stretch marks, scars to cellulite. You can get all your beauty needs satisfied with InstaNatural, as they have hair products to even supplements! If you sign-up on their site for the Club Discount, you get an instant 15% off. Need to save more? Order $25 worth of beauty products that are guaranteed to work, as they all covered by the InstaNatural 100% Lifetime Satisfaction Money Back Guarantee and get free shipping. Nothing to lose than some fine lines, blemishes and better skin for 2015!

InstaNatural: Cellulite Cream

This product is part of their Body Creams collection and helps with everything from the cellulite to the dimples a person may suffer from. You get a boost from:

• Caffeine- Derived from green tea, which provides you with instant firming and lifting results
• Retinol- allows the skin to resurface at a quicker pace, lessening the appearance of the cellulite/dimples
• Cocoa Butter- softens and also helps keep the skin looking beautiful
• Shea Butter- allows the “newer” skin to get a healthy amount of nutrients and moisture
• Vitamin C- helps your skin hold more moisture and gives it a healthy glow (brightens)
• Vitamin B5- helps to keep skin soft and healthy, but also provides a smoother look
• All products at InstaNatural are made in the USA and never animal tested

Retail Price Point: $23.75 for a 5 ounce bottle with a pump top

Ingredients list (as posted on the site): Deionized Water, Organic Aloe Vera, Glyceryl Stearate (Plant Derived), Cetearyl Alcohol (Plant Derived), Safflower Seed Oil, Witch Hazel, Bladderwrack (Fescues Vesiculosus), Caffeine, Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Castor Seed Oil, Fragrance, Stearic Acid (Plant Derived), Sunflower Seed Oil, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Green Tea, Sage Extract (Salvia Officinale), Cinnamon Extract (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum C. Cassia), Retinol, Vitamin B5 (Panthenol), Vitamin E (d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate), Evening Primrose Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Organic Hempseed Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Bayberry (Myrica Cerifera), Bugleweed (Lycopus Virginicus), Butcher’s Broom (Ruscus Aceleatus), Cayenne (Capsicum Annum), Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum Procumbens), Dong Quai (Angelica Sinensis), Elder Flower (Sambucus Spp), Ginger (Zingiber Officinale), Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis), Hawthorn (Crataegus Oxycantha), Shea Butter, Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate), Wildcrafted Horsetail (Equisetum Arvense), Organic Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica), Algae Extract, Japanese Green Tea Leaf Extract, Palm Oil, Decyl Glucoside (plant derived), Glyceryl Caprylate (Natural Preservative), Sodium Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide (pH Modifier), Tocopherol (Antioxidant), Ethylhexylglycerin (Preservative), Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Extract (Natural Preservative)

Application- The product works best when applied twice a day, just like a facial skincare regimen. You apply the cream to skin that is clean and dry. You simply pump out the amount needed and apply to your thighs, stomach, legs, and anywhere you wish to address! Use a healthy amount of motion to make sure the cream penetrates and the caffeine hits those targeted areas. I went with a deep massage and allowed the cream to fully dry before dressing.

What to Expect- Cellulite is one of those attributes you hear everyone has but that does not make you love it, or much less accept it. While over-the-counter products will not fully remove the appearance of the skin, it certainly can diminish it. I’m all for zapping it any way I can and InstaNatural’s Cellulite cream does aid with this pesky little problem. Thank the healthy amount of Caffeine in the product because it not only minimizes the appearance but provides you with instant results. You get to see a difference on the first day but it does not stop there. The cream has a nice amount of moisturizers like Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter, which penetrate and soften the appearance of the cellulite and surrounding skin. Then comes the Retinol punch that helps in not only repairing but rejuvenation, and by this I mean, it helps the “turn-over” process of shedding our “damaged” looking skin quicker.  The Retinol helps produce a less marked skin in less time than if not used! The cellulite/dimple mark will still be present but with continual use, you can achieve a minimizing look and the finer lines will be less visible, along with the dimples. I found the cream to not only help moisturize and produce softer and a more supple skin’s surface, but it also produced a more firmer appearance that was visible to the eye and touch. I am all for the instant results and especially as the days get warmer and the bikini is due to come out!

Connect with InstaNatural and their large array of Beauty products at:

• Online
• Product’s Link
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Google+

I received the above product(s) free of charge from InstaNatural. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Grazia: Premium Bakeware Silicone Baking Cups, 24 count #Review #graziabaking

The last silicone cups you will need to buy! When silicone cups and “pans” came on the market, I was excited to see how the material would work with my baking mixes. I went from being optimistic to then using a pan with 6-cupcake molds that I literally used once and tossed away. First, the thing was flimsy and you had to be careful filling it with batter as a collapse was eminent and lastly, it did not perform well leaving me with uneven baked cupcakes that were dry. Easily clean-up made me rethink what was easy in my book was not at all easy in theirs. I had to soak the wanna-be pan and in 1 years time, the pan became sticky to the touch like the silicone was breaking down by just being exposed to air because I never used it again. Hardest 6 cupcakes, which I later tossed, that I ever had to bake! I swore off silicone and just baked in parchment cups.

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In comes Grazia with the heaviest silicone cups I have ever felt. To give you an idea, the container of 24 cups weighs close to 9 ounces (unfilled). Sturdy and the happiest colors that fit with any celebration. The silicone material that Grazia uses is:

• Oven Safe
• Microwave Safe, meaning you can make “one-cup” servings to satisfy any craving
• Can be used in the Freezer, so you can have ready-to-bake batches ready to go
• Dishwasher Safe for easy clean-ups
• The product has a non-stick finish too, so no need for baking sprays with harsh chemicals
• Most importantly, also BPA-Free and Grazia uses a silicone material that is FDA&LFGB approved (food-grade silicone)
• Temperature Safe from -40 degrees (for freezer use) to 440 degrees (for oven use)
• Each cup holds 2.5 ounces of batter, filling, anything you want to create! You can make savory treats too by using Puff Pastry combined with cheeses and meats.  Great way to welcome in 2015 with little mess to clean-up.

Grazia Bakeware is not like any other silicone baking cup I have felt on the market. No collapsing when pouring can occur because the cups are engineered with “real-life” baking in mind, meaning the cups stay put and are easily moved on-to a baking pan and again easily transferred without worrying of spilling or even crushing a cupcake if you happen to touch/move the cup. I can just bake as I always do minus wasting money and parchment paper with the cups I would buy or make before. You just pop-out your creations and start munching or easily make a basket of goodies to give-away.

Easy to fill and use!

24-Cups in 4 beautiful and bright colors!

Sturdy cups that keep their shape and form!

 

Retail Price Point: $11.99 on Amazon and Grazia stands by their products by providing a Life-time Gurantee

 

Grazia also supplies you with 24 cups to use in 4 different colors. You can use as many as you need and not have to clean-up an entire pan even if some cups were not used. You simply soak in warm soapy water after using and I let mine air dry on the rack before storing them away in the same plastic cylinder holder provided.  So easy to clean that I felt I did not even need to use the dishwasher!

Connect with Grazia Baking products at:

• Amazon
• On-line
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• YouTube
• #GraziaBaking

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Grazia.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Gurin: Touch Professional Digital Kitchen Scale KS-100 #Review #DigitalKitchenScale

Anyone who reads my blog knows I do a bit of baking. And a bit of cooking. Maybe a touch of kitchen activities here and there. So when Gurin offered me a chance to test a kitchen scale, I jumped at it with both feet. I’ve tried a few cheap-o kitchen scales, some really nice ones, and once I even bought one from a national kitchen and bath retailer. I was happy with a few, disappointed in most. When your recipe calls for exact measurements, “close enough” isn’t good enough. Accuracy counts.

This Gurin Model KS-100 Kitchen Scale is accurate to the gram thanks to 4 high precision GFX sensors. It will also max out at over 12lbs, which is insane. I hope and pray I never bake so much as to max out this little guy! But it’s still a really, really nice feature. And the stylish tempered glass face means no flour or sugar or particles of any sort get lost in seams or cracks. It’s no-good rubber feet keep it solidly anchored in place, and it’s touch screen controls mean you can switch units or tare with a knuckle, when one is sporting the dreaded “club finger” from mixing or mashing or shaping. Hallelujah! The scale sports a back-lit screen with large, easy to read numbers that can be seen from any angle. Such a nice little feature when one has to glance across a kitchen from computer screen to recipe book, because let’s be honest, it’s easy to lose track with several things going at once.

If I were forced to point out some negatives, I would initially point to the CR2032 lithium button cell batteries, as you can’t just grab those from anywhere. And the fact that the tempted glass surface is black, which means every speck and fingerprint shows. It’s so nice to look at, one can’t help but be a little OCD with cleaning it.

Retail Price Point: $19.95 via Amazon

The pluses here highly outweigh the niggling little minuses. It came securely packaged, and with batteries too. I so do not miss the old “batteries not included” days! At just $19.99 I would say that you might find a scale a little cheaper, but with a satisfaction guarantee and free shipping, I can safely say you probably won’t find one better. I’d label this one a “buy”, with no regrets.

Connect with Gurin and their products at:

• Amazon
• On-line
• #DigitalKitchenScale

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Gurin.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Body Merry: Hyaluronic Acid Serum #Review #BodyMerry

 

Last week, I reviewed the Retinol serum by Body Merry and this week I will be reviewing their Hyaluronic Acid. This is a combination serum that is boosted with other ingredients like:

• Vitamin C
• Green Tea
• Aloe Vera
• Jojoba Oil
• And Vitamin E

All ingredients are Natural or Organic. Free from harsh chemicals such as Parabens, Sulfates and Phthalates. Also, no fragrances or alcohol are ever used and the product is produced in the USA.

Ingredients (as listed on their site):

• The Hard Hitters: Plant Derived Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C + Wildcrafted Green Tea
• The Organic Ones: Aloe + Jojoba Oil
• Just Some of the Others: Witch Hazel + MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) + Geranium Essential Oil + Vitamin E

Price Point: $14.99 for a 1 fluid ounce bottle that comes with a dropper top. Backed by a 100% Money Back Guarantee too!

Hyaluronic Acids help boost the amount of moisture your skin cells can hold. You get a plump and smoother look on the surface, so while you are quenching the skin, why not add other nutritional ingredients to improve its health? Body Merry does just that and even if you are prone to clogged pores, blemishes, acne, blackheads, this is a non-clogging formula. My T-Zone should be called my pimple zone because I can be prone to breakouts.  I admit I sometimes just dab and pretend to moisturize these areas but always lightly. I was able to apply a thin layer of the Body Merry’s Hyaluronic Acid serum and woke up the next day without any skin issues. You will notice as the weeks go by and with continued use, the serum has lasting results. Due to its plumping nature and how well it drives moisture to the areas applied, I went for it and I applied it on my lips. I usually use whatever is left on my finger tips after applying to my face and neck area, which is usually more than enough. Chapped lips/Winter lips are now not an issue and I follow up with a nourishing balm enriched with Coconut oil. Another great product by Body Merry that is affordable, performs well and with regular use, rewards you with better looking skin. I figure I will start my 2015 looking better than years before!

Get your Body Merry fix at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• #BodyMerry

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Body Merry.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Dr. Song: 50% Lactic Acid Gel Peel (Professional) #Review #drsong

I love peels and I admit I’m an exfoliation addict, so you bet I was thrilled when I was able to review Dr. Song’s Lactic Acid peel in 50%.  Before I go into the review, below is a little information on the acid and my non-professional steps when I do my own peels.

What is Latic Acid:

You have heard of products containing “AHA”, well this is the product, alpha hydroxy acids.  Available in several percentages from a mild 20% to higher ones like 50% to 70%.  The acid is derived from milk and considered to be mild when it comes to irritations and used in “peel/mask” form by many, and especially first-time users.

Why use Lactic Acid:

There are many benefits in a peel of this form because it provides a deeper exfoliation.  Great for resurfacing of the skin, cleaning out debris from pores and especially beneficial for mature/aging skin.  The acid helps with acne scars, fading of dark circles, and even hyper-pigmentation.  You get skin that is smoother, younger looking, and firmer in tone.  Great for fading finer lines and improving overall the look of your skin.  You will notice improvements in tone and even a glow.

How-to-Use:

Since we are dealing with an acid, you will need to first do a “spot test”, to get an idea how your skin will react.  Next, comes choosing a time and it may seem small but for first-time users, it’s best to start with 30 seconds and slowly progress next time depending on your skin’s reaction.   If you know you have sensitive skin/spots or areas, decreasing to a lesser time span is suggested.  No longer than 5 minutes as you work up and adjust to how the peel reacts over time, but always spot check first!.  Always avoid the eyes, lips, nostrils and areas of that kind. The longer the lactic acid is in it’s active state, the deeper it will clean and resurface but like with any product, you can cause severe irritation and/or damage (i.e. burns) to your skin.  This is not one of those times you want to get a peel a day before a big event! Lastly, comes the neutralizing phase; removal and making sure the acid is “deactivated”.  Some people use toners, Witch Hazel, just water, mild soap, to even a baking soda rinse.  The rinse is something crucial and you must make sure to get all the acid off and a good 45 seconds to a minute rinsing is suggested.

What to Expect:

Like with any beauty product, time and regular use will yield the best results.  The first peel you may see little results and this is why the time of how long the lactic acid peel stays on increases, as you get to know what your skin can tolerate.  With time and regular use, you should start seeing positive changes but taking it slow is best to avoid any negative reactions.  I would start with a every 2 weeks schedule if you experience positive results, then see how once a week does.

After Care:

Always wear sunscreen (if going out) and protect (moisturizer) your skin as you just had a peel.  Your skin may be red/pink in color, so this is why I never do a peel prior to a big event.  I have used Aloe Vera gel to just a mild lotion to make sure I heal well.  I usually give myself a peel a week prior to any event, to make sure I look my best! Always consult with a doctor/dermatologist first because what works for one person, may not for you.

Dr Song 50% Lactic Acid Gel Peel (Professional)

 

Dr. Song’s Lactic Acid comes in gel form and I find that beneficial, as you don’t want to be chasing the acid around when applying.  I first did a “spot test”  and after 45 seconds, I felt that was my good start point.  I let a day lapse to make sure my spot did not have a negative reaction.  I applied with a cotton ball all over my face, avoiding the sensitive areas like my eyes, lips, and nostrils.  Set the timer and I then used a mild facial wash to deactivate the acid.

Ingredients (as listed on the site):
Lactic acid, purfied water, sodium carboxylmethylcellulose, propylene glycol

Retail Price Point: 24.99 for a 4 ounce bottle on Amazon  (15-20 full facial peels)

Results:

My first peel let me know I can increase the time to one minute and I did just that and started seeing results with my second peel, which were more noticeable.  Dr. Song’s Lactic Acid peel provided the deep exfoliation in a milder way for me.  I could never get these results with my facial brush and sometimes I tend to over focus in one area and cause irritation.  This was a simple peel that does all the work, all treated areas at one time, and you just wash it off.  Like with any acid peel, as long as you read the directions and follow them carefully, you should be happy with the results.  My only con is that the directions are not included with the product and are e-mailed, also available on their website.  You could accidentally delete an e-mail, so I suggest printing them and sticking them in the box with the product.

Dr. Song offers several products to fit your beauty needs:

• Amazon
• On-line

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Dr. Song.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

 

Forlan: Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin A, C, D, and E #Review #ForlanHyaluronicAcidSerum

Forlan offers a Hyaluronic Acid that is not your typical blend. The serum contains a healthy mixture of Vitamin A, C, D and also Vitamin E. This anti aging moisturizer comes in a nice bottle with a pump action top, so oxidation is kept at a minimum with zero light and minimal air exposure.

Hyaluronic Acid, is found in greater quantity in younger skin’s cells and is attributed to that smooth, elastic and beautiful skin. HA provides moisture to the cells, almost a drowning effect that allows the surface to hold up to 1000 times it’s water weight, so you get a nice plump that smooths out fine lines and wrinkles. See it as your skin getting it’s 8 glasses of water a day but on the surface!

Vitamin A- A retnoid that helps boost collagen and aids in resurfacing of the skin, meaning you plump the layers below and quicken the turn-over process. Your older layer is shed but you are left with smoother looking skin that appears more flawless than before. It takes time and regular use to see greater results.

Vitamin C– Please refer to this post for a comprehensive break-down of it’s benefits.

Vitamin E– An antioxidant and a very rich moisturizer. The oil tends to remain on the skin longer, thus providing longer protection. Studies have shown that Vitamin E combined with Vitamin C, may give the skin a level of “sun protection”. Vitamin E also defends against free-radicals and helps with inflammation.

Ingredients (as listed on the site):
Deionized Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Juice, Phenoxyethanol, Witch Hazel Extract, Acrylates/C 10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, MSM, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E), Sodium Hydroxide,Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C), Lavender Oil, L-Arginine, Retinyl Palmitate (vitamin A), Cholecalciferol (vitamin D).

Price Point: $19.95 for a 2.0 ounce bottle from Amazon

Results:
I applied the Forlan Hyaluronic Acid Serum for a period of 3 weeks; twice a day, both day and at night. I washed my face and this was the second step of my daily skincare routine. I followed up with make-up and on the weekends with just sunscreen. I discontinued used of all other products and this included my retinols. I will say the simplification process was appreciated because this is an all-in-one product. You can follow-up with a moisturizer but 80% of time, I felt that the serum was enough for me. It satisfied my skin’s needs by keeping it moisturized and protected. I did not experience any blemish or acne breakouts, or even clogged pores, so that also convinced me to keep using the serum as-is without adding anything else. My routine was cut in half and I found myself sort of feeling like I was forgetting to put something else on my face but by week two, I was liking this short-cut. The formula may be a short-cut in steps but not when it comes to delivering results. I had a nice glow that made me stop using my highlighter powder and a girl likes it when she can glow all on her own. My cheeks were smooth and I did encourage the resurfacing process by exfoliating twice a week. I was hesitant about the Vitamin E because the oil can be heavy at times and cause irritation but I did not experience any adverse effects. I think as the days get colder and Winter is upon us, the Vitamin is E is more welcoming than anything. I was very satisfied with the results and how well this all-in-one product performed!

Get your Forlan Advanced Skincare experience at:

• On-line 
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Forlan Advanced Skincare.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.