Dynamic Innovation Labs: Dynamic Sonic Instant Eye Lift #Review #DynamicSonic #EyeLift

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When it comes to anti aging products, we have a lot to choose from. You can go the slow and patient route by using a product like retinol that takes time to see results. With retinol the results are permanent only if you continue to use the product with the idea as you age, you will need to up the percentage and most times end up using a prescription grade formula. Then comes the instant changers, like I like to refer to them. Products that do not work on a long term basis that provide the changes that stay, but more like formulas that give you that pep (think what energy drinks do) and give you that “lifted” look instantaneously. The last options revolve around appointments, doctors, fillers, to surgeries and that is just not a route I am ready to literally face with my face. My solution is combo driven. Meaning I use acids and retinols to work on my face for more permanent results but I also use the instant type for when my face is sending out an SOS. You just can’t fake a goodnight’s sleep without the instant products there to save you!

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Dynamic Innovation Labs, is a company that provides OTC products that address both a instant and/or longer term solution towards aging skin. This is a company that is serious about skin care and no longer using the everyday formulas that just make fine lines and wrinkles giggle. Dynamic Innovation Labs is about annihilating any fine lines and wrinkles, including those we get from smiling and laughing too much. Yes, even being super happy comes at a cost! Hey, I prefer working on a overly happy face versus a moody one. Once you visit the site, the price points can be scary. Again, Dynamic Innovation Labs is not playing games and is producing formulas as a last resort before or even if you are considering any surgical enhancement procedures. Everything comes in these surgical looking vials that resemble a injector but minus the needle. They stand behind their products by even offering a free sample ($5.99 for shipping and handling) of their Instant Eye Lift . So, you can try before buying the full size tube.

 

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Ingredients (as posted on the website): Purified Water (Aqua), Sodium Silicate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, CI 77489 (Iron Oxide), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin

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Verdict:

Price of a product never equates quality and/or results. This runs so true in the beauty world of products that most times many products out there have just found a fancy way to sell us water or a cheap oil for more than it’s worth! This angers me but anger causes wrinkles, so I try not to think about it 🙂 . When Dynamic Innovation Labs offered to send me their Dynamic Sonic Instant Eye Lift to try out…..I of course was excited. I want instant results and the Dynamic Sonic Instant Eye Lift has a rating of lasting 6 to 8 hours. That’s a lot of lifting for a few drops of product and I was not convinced. I receive the vial and use is simple, you just apply a few drops and watch the effects. Make sure not to rub the product in and the idea is to get a thin film on while holding a face with no expression. Yeah, act like a statue! Okay, it made me laugh but I had to hold it in to not be left looking like I am cackling 6 to 8 hours. Once the product dries, you can then apply make-up as you would any day but keep in mind in not messing (rubbing in too much) in the areas treated. I did just that and the formula did not interfere with my make-up. I actually skipped on a concealer!  Now, the results. I was surprised on how you watch your face sort of lose that tired look within seconds as the Dynamic Sonic Instant Eye Lift starts…..well, lifting. It does not take a lot of time for the solution to dry and you do see results. I look like I sleep well and my life is perfect if you see me! I like that. I don’t want to look like I feel sometimes and especially on days where 4 hours of real sleep is all I obtained. No other product in the instant category has ever lifted and worked like this one from Dynamic Innovation Labs. This is why I rarely ever review any instant anything on my blog, due to the high failure rate. No fails here. Yes, the product costs $395.00 or $375.25 with subscribe and save, but it 100% works. I have overspent more on products combined that failed in the instant and even the long term effects categories. You know how it feels waiting 7 to 10 weeks to see results and sticking to a beauty regimen that long and then seeing zilch occur. You then add time wasted and money……well, don’t get me angry because remember…..it causes wrinkles. At least order the sample and see for yourself the younger you again!

Get 25% OFF with this exclusive coupon code D888D

Visit Dynamic Innovation Labs at:

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Dynamic Innovation Labs. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. I received no other compensation in exchange for my review. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

 

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EXUVIANCE® : Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish Review #Exuviance

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Exuviance, is a company that I have heard of but never had been able to try their products. I am always game in trying a new anti-aging product and must admit that exfoliating really changed my skin, so the Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish was exactly what I am always looking for.

As a kid, we would always reserve the uneaten portions of a papaya that we would use to make fruit salads with and smoothies. The papaya’s flesh that was close to the skin would be wrapped in saran wrap and then left in the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes, then quickly applied to the skin. We would look like sea creatures but I always loved how my skin felt after. I seriously thought this little beauty regimen was just something you did and as much as I loved how my skin felt afterwards, I just stopped doing it after I got married. No one else eats papaya here and it’s a large fruit so my papaya facial went the way of the Dodo! I still do egg white facials but I must admit they are not the same.

Exuviance took what was a proven ingredient and amped it up into making a professional product that is effective and brilliant. No worries if your home is a papaya free-zone anymore! The enzymes in papaya help dissolve the “yuck stuff” your pores are filled with. It’s done in a gentle manner but with the other ingredients that Exuviance added, like the Glycolic Acid and the fine crystals, that you are guaranteed to resurface gorgeous skin. It’s also faster than the old fashion way mentioned above. It would take me 30 minutes to get some results and let’s be honest, we did not consume papaya daily, so this was a weekend regimen at best. With Exuviance no limitations and the product can be used once to twice a week and takes a simple two minutes from start to finish.  One minute if you have sensitive skin.

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Not your everyday Scrub:
This product like listed on their site is a polish for your skin and not your everyday scrub. You are using fine grains to gently exfoliate and brighten your skin, not at all like I would describe a scrub that originates from fruit pits or even plastic micro-beads. The texture from the Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish felt what I would describe like fine sand. The kind of sand you use for decorative purposes not the type you dump in a play box! It’s not only great for skincare but safer for the environment.  Exuviance calls the base “Professional Grade Crystals” and I do agree there is a huge difference in how this product feels and works from a drug-store brand.

Ingredients (as listed on the website):
Aqua (Water), Glycolic Acid, Alumina, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Isononyl Isononanoate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Ammonium Hydroxide, Arginine, Butylene Glycol, Stearyl Alcohol, Polyacrylate-1 Crosspolymer, PEG-100 Stearate, Lactobionic Acid, Papain, Cetyl Alcohol, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, PEG-75 Stearate, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Ceteth-20, Steareth-20, Carbomer, Algin, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Parfum (Fragrance), CI 19140 (Yellow 5), CI 14700 (Red 4).

Retail Price Point: 2.6 oz bottle for $72.00 via their website or you can visit your local Ulta on-line or in-store to check out the entire line.

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Final Verdict:

I always think brand oriented events are cool and wish I could attend them but then back out.  This time even though Exuviance did not require I attend, I did visit the Glendora, CA Ulta and finally made it to such event.  I wish I had not and it’s because I fell in love with the brand.  The Exuviance crew was attentive and left my skin feeling and looking gorgeous.  Everyone was buying products and I am the first to pass judgement on a price point because the product has to justify it, and not only in flashy packaging.  I had a head start with the Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish in achieving better looking skin before the 4/18 event at Ulta, but when paired with the Collagen Triple Boost serum and all the other products in Exuviance’s anti-aging line……ooh-la-la.  I know now why some companies are highly regarded for their entire product lines and Exuviance is one I put up there.  By week one, I had used the product only twice and saw the difference in texture.  My skin was not just smooth to the touch but smooth when it came to how the surface looked.  By week two, I know now why people chase after products that shrink your pores and I admit it, it looks good.  My clear pores helped give that smaller pore appearance and this again leaves you with an ultra-smooth surface.  Make-up, creams, anything you apply glides on and performs better when you start with better looking skin!  I use less foundation and skip on any concealer use, to the point that if I don’t need or use the concealer soon, I am okay with letting go of it 🙂 .  You will be happy with the results and I warn you, you will get addicted to better looking skin and Exuviance’s products.  I can’t wait to try more!

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Satisfy your skin’s need and visit Exuviance products at:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Exuviance.  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: Retinol Surge Moisturizer #Review #BodyMerry

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Body Merry has been a guest over here in the past and always welcomed! Like you don’t need to call before you arrive type of guest 🙂 and it’s because I really enjoy using their products. They work and who doesn’t like using stuff that shows results because my beauty regimen is not just for fun……I’m sort of on the run from the tick-tock clock of time. I enjoy the memories with people and experiences, just don’t wrinkle me!

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I was sent Body Merry’s Retinol Surge Moisturizer. It’s an all-in-one product that can be used by itself as a last layer application or you can amp your routine by using a serum and then a thin layer of Body Merry’s Surge Moisturizer. The product offers:

  • 2.5% Retinol in a cream form
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Vitamin E
  • Vitamin B5
  • Green Tea

Ingredients (as listed on website): Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Sunflower Oil, Palm Oil, Pentylene Glycol, Phospholipids, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Phosphate, Tocopheryl (Vitamin E), Plant Derived Hyaluronic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Jojoba Oil, Wildcrafted Green Tea, Wildcrafted Propolis, Shea Butter, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid.

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The moisturizer really covers everything from giving you an instant boost from the green tea, uses Aloe Vera versus water as it’s base and you have nourishing agents like Shea Butter, Jojoba oil and Vitamin E. Body Merry goes one step further by making sure their Hyaluronic acid is derived from plants and let us not forget the major player here, the 2.5% percentage of retinol. The product is all packed in a pump action bottle, so no air, light or even bacteria can easily come in contact. That to me is insurance on your purchase!

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Application:
A one pump serving was enough for me to cover the areas I wanted to treat on my face because I have combination skin and that means some areas get more moisturizer than others. I then had enough to treat my neck and chest area because people tend to over focus on the face when the rest of your body can also show aging. I applied the product under make-up and never had issues of my foundation not looking right hours later or even problems with blending. The acids in the moisturizer keep everything in check. Make sure to use SPF (even though you should already be) because retinol products may make skin sensitive to the sun, plus why damage the skin you are trying to take care of.

Retail Price Point: $23.49 via Amazon or $24.99 via their website for a generous 3.4 fluid ounce bottle.

Verdict:
Like with all of Body Merry’s products so far, I am happy with the results and the price point. I got tired of OTC products not declaring the percentage of retinol in their products and just taking their word that there was even a significant amount to make a difference. I might as well squeeze a bottle down the sink if it’s not going to work! With Body Merry products, everything is forthcoming and no proprietary blends to hide behind. Body Merry tells you what you are getting, how it’s going to work and what to expect, plus goes beyond and adds a satisfaction guarantee. No hassles and I like exchanges like that because the beauty world should not be complicated. We all want to look our best, we all can’t afford and/or don’t want to undergo surgery, so we just want stuff that works. Body Merry’s stuff works and that is something I (and my skin) truly appreciates.

Connect with Body Merry at:

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.

Aria Starr Beauty: Super Retinol Advanced Anti-Aging Serum; 2.5% Retinol #Review #AriaStarrBeauty

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Read the fashion magazines to the beauty newsletters,, and everyone is always pushing a retinol product with a very huge price tag. Not all vitamin A products are created equal but that does not mean that retinol product is not going to cost an arm and a leg. One thing I learned, is that Vitamin A should not be as costly and it’s effectiveness will come from what the formulation yields. You then get into the source and potency of the product and that is where I come to see if the bottle has what it says it does. The skin does not lie! 🙂

Aria Starr Beauty is a young company, which originates in Corona, California and with only a few products currently on the market. They offer Argan oil, a Vitamin C serum and the Super Retinol serum they kindly sent me to try out. The company name’s is the same as the founder, and they provide their beauty aids currently only via the Amazon’s Marketplace and other sites. Getting noticed is hard in the beauty world, so I don’t always discount if a company has little social media traffic or even a limited selection. Everything starts somewhere and some start small but as long as you do it right, I prefer to know I can count on a brand for this product versus just having a large selection of beauty items that do not work…..we all have sort of been there at one time or another!

I’m always on a retinol product as it is, and currently the OTC brands are only allowed to distribute a maximum of 2.5% without a prescription. This also means you get a softer potency that is sometimes better because delicate areas like your eyes can’t tolerate higher doses. You would need a script for retinol, which contains Tretinoin and comes in both topical and even pill form (i.e. Accutane). I don’t feel I’m there yet when it comes to my skin’s needs both in appearance and let’s admit it, in cost. I stick to 2.5% retinol for now until the time the fine lines start fighting back harder.

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Aria Starr Super Retinol is labeled as a advanced anti-aging serum. You get a combination of main ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E and Organic Aloe. I like that the product comes in a glass colored bottle to avoid oxidation caused by light, plus it’s a gorgeous cobalt blue in color. Aria Starr took one step further and opted for a pump action top versus the glass droppers you see with some products, so again protecting the potency of the retinol by limiting oxygen/air from diluting it’s contents. I also like pump tops because I think they are more sanitary. You don’t have to worry if you need to rest a dropper’s top on the counter and picking up whatever to not only affect your skin, but the contents of the product, and it’s future applications. I’m just not into spreading germs with my beauty routine!

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Ingredients (as listed on Amazon): Organic Herbal Infusion, Organic Aloe, Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, Witch Hazel, Pentylene Glycol, Phospholipids, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Phosphate, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Carrageenan Gum, Organic Jojoba Oil, Triticum Vulgare, Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate), Organic Green Tea, Wildcrafted Resina Propoli, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin

Retail Price Point: $16.95 for a 2.0 fluid ounce bottle. The label has a printed on expiration date, which I like. It makes the consumer aware of manufacture date (11/17/2014) and expiration date (11/16/2016). Aria Starr’s products are manufactured in the USA and lot/batch numbers are also recorded on the label.  Covered by a 1-year Satisfaction Guarantee.

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Results:
As I stated I use retinol, so I am passed the “sensitive period” where peeling and/or redness may occur. Aria Starr’s serum is the same potency as the brand I was currently using, so I simply just jumped from one brand to another. I used the product for 3.5 weeks to see if the serum continued with my skin’s upkeep and if I saw any improvements or worse, any fine lines coming back. I used the product twice a day but in the A.M., I tend to go lighter with application and always follow-up with a SPF moisturizer. The serum does have retinol present, as my past achievements of ditching fine lines continued. I did not have any adverse reactions and this serum seems to leave a little more of a moisture barrier and this may be because of the additional beneficial properties added (i.e. vitamin oils and enriching oils).

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Verdict:
You can’t beat the price point for a product where 1 to 2 pumps is needed. I still have more than 1/2 left because I needed 1 pump at night and a 1/2 a pump in the day.  A little goes a long way with serums and especially retinol infused ones.  I did not see any diminished gains that I had previously achieved and the product does work well with my skin.  No break-outs, blemishes, or anything negative I could attribute to the serum.  The product also absorbs quickly and gave me zero issues when used under make-up.

 

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I received the above product(s) free of charge from Aria Starr 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.

Petunia Skincare: Derma Roller, 540 needles 1.5mm #Review #PetuniaSkincare

 

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I have come to the conclusion that not everything for skincare today comes out of a jar. Yes, you get results but not the maximum you can achieve from an at-home beauty regimen. Something is always missing and because I’m a D-I-Y gal, I try to find options that fit with my schedule and no appointments required.  So, if I have time at midnight to take care of my skin……so be it!

Petunia Skincare provides several beauty products that fit anyone’s needs from cosmetic brushes, serums, to the Derma roller they sent me. I have used at-home laser treatments that really helped to facial skin simulators, which helped me clear up my nasal passages from the vibrations more than it ever did anything for my skin, so it was great for my seasonal allergies! I never actually have used needles (except to annihilate a pimple that declared war and that is a needle) on my face. Petunia’s Skincare Derma roller is 540 needles that are ultra thin at just 1.5 mm!

 

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What do Derma Rollers Deliver:

The idea is to stimulate the skin with multiple micro-sized needles. The stimulation is deeper than a product you would just apply to the surface, so you wake-up (i.e. amp up) your production of collagen. Collagen is what we lose with time when it comes to the amount we produce, so the effect of aging accelerates. No one wants that! You won’t get rid of deep wrinkles but you can soften their appearance with time and start working at producing a skin surface that is smoother and softer. Works wonders on fine lines that are not so deep!  The stimulation also aids with circulation, which again aids with the rejuvenation process. It’s about making that clock for once speed up on how we shed old skin to produce new skin that is better looking than what we had. I’m game!

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How you Use it Matters:

It’s needles and common sense applies. You don’t roll it around like it’s a pie crust here! Think more of pasta dough and you need to follow a pattern, so you are not over rolling in certain areas and neglecting others. The Derma roller can be used on your face and body, however you avoid sensitive skin like under your eyes, lids, and so forth. After using the Derma roller, it is recommended to “feed your skin”, so this is when you use serums, creams and anything that provides a good dose of nourishment to the areas you treated. It’s easy when it comes to the regimen aspect because you only use the roller once every 3 to 4 weeks for the face and 2 to 3 weeks on the body. Petunia Skincare provides a nice illustration and detailed directions when it comes to patterns and use, so you are not going into it blind when you purchase a Derma Roller from them. If you have open skin from acne or other causes, avoid treating that area or if you develop a negative reaction. Redness will occur and I compare the redness I got to what I get from retinol, so it fades away overnight.

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Retail Price Point: $18.77 via Petunia Skincare’s website or via Amazon.  The product also comes with a Satisfaction Guarantee.

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Cleaning keeps the skin Healthy:

Like our skin, the Derma roller should be kept clean and sterile to avoid any issues. Petunia Skincare recommends a hot water rinse before every use and an alcohol/bleach disinfection after 3 to 4 sessions of use. I opted to keep things ultra-clean by using alcohol every time. Takes so little time and my skin is worth it! I did use the (diluted) bleach method after using the roller twice and when you look at the schedule for treatments, it broke down to once every 2 months for the bleach method and that was already ahead of the 3 to 4 sessions recommended by the manufacture. Be careful to not damage the needles by bending or pressing on them when cleaning the Derma roller.

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Results:

I’m 2 sessions in when using the roller and have noticed a quicker turnaround. The product’s box states the roller aids with cellulite reduction, however I have just used the product on my face and can’t report if it helps with this skin problem. I figure I start using it on my problem areas (on my body) this month. Being able to accelerate the “turn-over process” has drastically reduced my punishment regarding acne scarring, which has always gone away with me but what took maybe 2 months to diminish, now takes 3 to 4 weeks and the last week is really just a shadow (pigment color difference) that you can barely notice. So far 2015 has been kind to me when it comes to my breakouts, so unsure if that is due to the roller or my skin just decided to be nice (nah, it’s out of character) to me. You will notice firmer texture after 2 sessions if this was not a huge issue. Start early when it comes to beauty treatments has always been my motto and this is coming from a girl that never has seen a dermatologist for anti-aging anything. It pays off because I don’t mind needles but I am sort of wary of filled needles because of the adverse effects fillers and botox may have. Plus, I save money and my wallet and myself sort of prefer walking around looking a little younger minus less money!

Connect with Petunia Skincare and their beauty products at:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from .  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.

 

 

Cassani Fogless Shower Mirror #Review #Amazon

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I recently had the chance to try the Cassani Fogless Shower Mirror thanks to the folks at Cassani. I got it through Amazon.com, and it was here a couple of days after ordering thanks to Amazon Prime. Using patented nanotechnology infused directly into the reflective surface of the mirror, it purports to let you focus on the shave and not the mirror. While at first that was the case, I’ll admit that by use 2 it was a gummy mess. The nanotechnology is actually a coating that when wet turns kind of, well…slimey. While the stainless steel hook looks pretty snazzy, and when left to air dry the mirror does too, at $15 I’m not too sure I’d buy it. Especially when you consider it’s not glass, it’s plastic.

Therein lies the second problem. I’m certain it was just the one shipped to us, but the one we received was slightly “warped”, leaving it not optically correct and closer to a fun house mirror. Which hubby pronounced to be quite distracting during his shave. So while the upside is that a glass mirror would most certainly have been shattered, the downside is, plastic bends instead of breaking.

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So, fogless? Check! Shatterproof? Check! It is large, mostly clear, and comes with mountable brushed steel hooks for the mirror and your razor. And hubby has decided shaving in the shower is better, cleaner and quicker than shaving in the sink. The downside is it gets wet in the shower, turns gummy, and is kind of expensive for a piece of oval plastic. I’ll let you decide if the convenience is worth the potential drawbacks.  I do like that the company stands by their products and offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee.  You just don’t get that from companies anymore!

Retail Price Point: $14.99

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You can connect with Cassani at:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Cassani.  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.

No offense, Defense is the best! Defense Soap #Review

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A while back, I was doing some gardening in my front “succulent garden” in our courtyard. We have no “outside” pets, just a dog who acts allergic to sunlight. So, since we use good organic dirt and have (had?) nothing to fear, I was gardening bare handed. Little did I know some neighbor and their “outside” cat had decided my front door garden was also suitable as a litterbox. Truly, truly a disgusting find. I washed my hands almost immediately, but as anyone who gardens will tell you, little scrapes and scratches happen. I started to get what our Google-fu told us was ringworm. Double ew. Luckily for me, hubby had been in contact via The Underground forums with Guy Sako of Defense Soap. I started washing with his bar and shower gel poste-haste. In a matter of about a week, I was itch and worry free. Huzzah!

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Now you may be wondering what all this has to do with my usual posts of beauty, health, and food. See, hubby uses this soap fairly regularly after exercise or especially after doing yard work, because again, for some reason, inconsiderate people think a cat’s dirty business belongs in our yard. I liked how it smelled, and a little added bonus was that he stopped getting really bad blemishes or breakouts from sunscreen and grime. So I thought I’d give it a try on my face. And have I been ever so pleased with the results.

 

 

 

IMAG1393Defense Soap uses simple, natural disinfectants like the highest quality 100% natural Tea Tree and Eucalyptus oils. No petrochemicals or triclosan. No sodium lauryl sulfate either. It helps balance your skins natural pH and bacteria, and not be so harsh as to cause redness, irritation or cracked skin. And lo and behold, within a week’s time, I noticed that my skin started clearing. No breakouts after a long, hot day wearing make-up. No over-dried feelings that made me afraid to smile or laugh. Best of all, no micro-beads that made me leave my little electric face scrubber in the drawer. Just clean.

IMAG1392Defense Soap’s unique blend of essential oils manage to devastating to harmful bacteria, virus and fungus but are gentle enough to your helpful bacteria that your skin is recolonized in just a few hours.

 

Can I talk to you about your makeup brushes, as long as I’ve got you here? How many of you wash your brushes regularly? Because you really should. We spend a pretty penny on our brushes (or even get really good ones on sale, cheap!), and using harsh soap on natural brush bristles? Can we really be that cruel? I was. Until hubby shared his Defense soap gel. A little drop in some hot water…boom; Clean, disinfected brushes on my clean, disinfected face. Especially you there on the couch, you know who you are. The one that reapplies your makeup in the bathroom on lunch? YOUR BRUSH IS DIRTY! Because your brush has all those germs from that bathroom festering in your compact, in your makeup pouch, in your purse. Yuck. You NEED Defense soap. Today. Right now. Go ahead. I’ll wait.

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This little discovery has been great, and as anyone who reads my blog with any regularity will tell you, I like to champion the little guy. And Guy Sako has been doing this labor of love with very little support outside of the combat sports community. It’s time I did my part and tried to spread his sphere of influence far and wide, because here is an American company doing all the right things for all the right reasons. You might have even seen Defense Soap at your gym before, and thought nothing of it. I’m here to tell you you should. Not just for the gym either! (because there’s nothing skeevier than the floor of your gym’s shower.) Not only will it keep funk and grime off your significant other keeping them healthy and happy, but will also make your skin healthy and happy too. Sharing is caring after all.

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Oh, gym clothes got a serious case of the “YUK”? Defense Soap has you covered there. Don’t feel like a shower after the gym or workout? Again, covered. Want to add some healthy, natural disinfectant to your every day body wash? Defense already thought of that. His shoes giving his feets the itch? Spray the ick away. Got a scratch you don’t want to itch? A little dab‘ll do ya.

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So, in the end, while on the surface it might seem Defense Soap isn’t for you, you have to remember that every day is a fight us. Against germs. Against viruses. Against breakouts. Against all the yuck the world tries to throw at us every day. The world isn’t fighting fair, either, bringing all it’s weapons to bear. Better bring a weapon of your own. This good Defense is the best offense.

 

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I received the above product(s) free of charge from Guy Sako and Defense Soap. 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.

Eslor #Beauty Line #Review: Rejuvenating Day Cream, Firming Collagen Day Cream, Active Night Cream, Soothing Cream, Herbal Soothing Gel, Brightening Activator and Firming Eye Cream

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I tried to be a good girl. I really did. I tried to go one at a time, review each Eslor product on it’s own. Eslor was so good to me, they sent their entire product line. But much like that forbidden treat that you binge on when no one’s looking, I went and dove into Eslor’s entire line, using it together. There’s so many brands that make so many claims, I have my “Drawer of Broken Promises”©. You know the one. Where all those fancy boutique brands go to their final rest. You won’t toss ’em, because they cost so much, but they just don’t work, so you don’t use them. I’m here to tell you Eslor’s keeps their promises, and won’t break your bank doing it.

So it’s time to dive, face first (pun intended), into the final batch of Eslor’s awesomeness. Starting with the Healthy Aging Collection. You see, Eslor has collections that target specific needs or wants in you skin care routine. There’s something for everyone, starting with the Rejuvenating Day Cream.

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A simple day cream that manages to feel rich and luxurious, and formulated to hydrate and firm you skin all at once. Without all the harsh chemicals and parabens, it re-plumps tired skin and leaves your complexion radiant with nothing but the finest natural ingredients. It gives your face a nice matte finish, so I can use this as a makeup base too. Talk about win-win.

Active Ingredients: Aloe Vera Gel, Squaline and Sweet Almond Oil, Vitamin E, Pentapeptides, Horsetail, Arnica and Hops Extracts.

100% Free of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES).

 

Next, in the line is the Firming Collagen Day Cream, for the days you feel your face needs that little extra “oomph “.

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Recommended for normal or dry skin, this cream keeps your face soft, supple, and will help keeps those pesky wrinkles at bay a little longer. Using only the finest Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen and other natural oils and extracts, this cream is the ultimate age defense cream, and I love it. It made my face look firmer almost immediately.

Active Ingredients: Lactic Acid, Ginseng Extract, Aloe Vera Gel, Avocado Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, Sesame Oil, Avocado Butter, Olive Butter and Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen.

100% Free of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES).

Rounding out this line is Eslor’s Active Night Cream.

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I thought I was set in this department, using one popular brand for years. Eslor just supplanted them. Price and performance met my old cream on the battlefield, and kicked some serious butt. A true biological stimulator, it significantly increased my skin’s elasticity, while leaving my skin nourished, soft, and refreshed. It’s keeping that youthful glow and keeping those fine lines away, too. One of my favorites, by far.

Active Ingredients: Hydrolyzed Soy Milk Protein, Pentapeptides, Ginseng Extract, Sea Buckthorn Oil, Aloe Vera Gel, Sweet Kernel Oil, Squalene, Peach Kernel Oil, Mango Butter, Almond Butter, Glycerin and Carrot Oil.

100% Free of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES).

Now we move on to the Sensitive Skin Collection. Specifically formulated for the minimizing of inflammation and with a emphasis on restoration, I’ve covered two of the products already here and here, but let’s get right to the final one, shall we? May I present Eslor’s Soothing Cream.

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Here’s an example where a simple name is not just a simple product. This cream features superoxide dismutase, the bane of free radicals everywhere. With a host of natural oils and extracts scientifically matched to restore your skins natural balance and vitality. It goes to work almost instantly, and I can say as a fair-skinned, fairly sensitive faced girl, I appreciate that it’s effective, yet gentle.

Active Ingredients: Live Yeast Extract, Ginkgo Biloba, Aloe Vera Gel, Avocado Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, Hazelnut Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitamin E, Vitamin Complex and Pentapeptides.

100% Free of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES).

Onward we go now to Eslor’s Targeted Collection. Specific products to meet specific needs. And there’s none better to start with than Eslor’s Herbal Soothing Gel.

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Ever have those days where you spent a little too long is the sun? Where the wind made your cheeks feel flushed and prickly all day? ME too. More than I’d care to admit. Thankfully, I have Eslor’s Herbal Soothing Gel on hand to help repair my “oopsies”. Oil-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free… The only thing it’s not free of is results. This would have to be the BEST after-sun treatment ever! And we’re not talking just treating the symptoms, we’re talking repairing the damage. No more dry, chapped skin just looking for a reason to wrinkle and age. Loaded with natural extracts, this targeted gel is something no gal should be without.

Active Ingredients: Aloe Vera Gel, St. John’s Blossoms Extract, Arnica Blossoms Extract, Calendula Blossoms Extract and Chlorophyll.

How can you prevent some of this, you ask? Let me answer with Eslor’s Brightening Activator.

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Loaded with anti-oxidents, this is a patented blend designed to optimize protection from harsh elements, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and age spots. While a goodnight sunscreen is recommended for prolonged sun exposure, no sunscreen will do for your skin what this serum can. I do wish it came with some form of UVA/UVB protection, because let’s face it: this planet is only getting sunnier lately. At this price point, I feel it really should, but I understand how hard it can be to add those things and stay true to the “natural” part of their passion.

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and pure Essential oils of Lemon, Orange and Mandarin.

100% Free of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulphate (SLES).

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Let’s be honest, we don’t take care of our eyes like we should. Especially the skin around them. Nothing can make a girl look older than tired, ringed eyes. Thankfully, Eslor’s Firming Eye Cream rides to our rescue. Nourishing your skin, reinforcing your skins natural strength and barriers, your see less puff, less circles, and brighter, healthier skin under your eyes in no time at all. I’ve had no small amount of hell with the skin around my eyes (I’m looking at you, Urban Decay), but thankfully I’ve had Eslor and their Firming Eye Cream to help reverse the damage. It’s gentle on my skin while producing measurable results. I’m thankful for this cream, truly.

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So there you have it. That’s the entire line of Eslor’s passion for better skin. This company has turned this into a labor of love, and when they say “The Art of Beauty”, they have certainly made good on it. Their HTP system (Hydrate, Protect, Treat) is a complete system that puts the health of your skin at the forefront while avoiding the science experiments we’ve all tried putting on our faces. Made in the USA, forgoing toxic chemicals, parabens and sulphates, they have created synergy between natural products and good skin health. I am truly fortunate to have been able to try this line, and I hope by sharing it with you, you feel empowered to go out and try it for yourself. You owe it to yourself.

With collections, samples and trial kits to fit any budget, you should add Eslor to your e-shopping basket.

To learn more about Eslor and their great beauty lines, please visit them at:

I received the above product free of charge from Eslor.  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.

BeautyBox5: Monthly Subscription Beauty Box 5 Review ; Beauty in a Box

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I have been interested in subscription box programs and have committed to some from Allure and especially their seasonal (quarterly) boxes. I wanted to try something on a smaller scale because that also means a smaller price point, which is welcoming on a monthly basis.

BeautyBox5 costs just $12 and that includes shipping. No surprises or fluctuating price points, just $12! I already love this part because it takes a bit of the fear away from committing.  You also get added perks, like exclusive discounts from the brands featured, so if you like an item….you will be able to purchase it at a special price. That again falls in the “love-it” category!

So let’s get started in opening this already pretty on the outside turquoise colored box…..

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Item #1: H2O+ Plus, Spa Sea Lotus Body Wash

I received a generous sample of 1 fluid ounces making this a nice deluxe sized bottle. The scent is Sea Spa Lotus and advertised as uni-sex. I quickly get my guinea pig (hubby) and ask him to test it out with me because very few products come to this house that I can share. The product’s fragrance is strong but welcoming because it has a pleasant scent. I washed my hands and notice as my Husband did, you are left with a nice scent but most of all, you do not lose your skin’s moisture like you do with hand soaps. Lathers up nicely and no film is felt on the body and hands. Definitely an item I would purchase and the standard bottle from H2O Plus, retails for just $17.00 for a 12.5 fluid ounce size.

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Item #2: Nubar Cuticle & Nail Oil

Included is a green colored bottle measuring 0.25 ounces and you know nail and cuticle oils tend to go far. I am glad I received this because I am not happy with my current brand. I tend to dehydrate my nails by using acetone to remove those glitter based polishes and my cuticles…….well, I pretend I don’t have any so I do not have to address their issues 🙂 My denial is not working out. Now even sleeping with lotion drenched hands in cotton gloves is not fixing my dilemma overnight. I also have been informed that sleeping with a “mime” is not something my husband appreciates. At-home manicures are something I do not want to skimp on and especially after Santa brought me so many nail polishes, so I give Nubar a try. The elixir is advertised as having Jojoba oil, Vitamins A, D and E, so I am liking the natural approach already. My green colored bottle is labeled as Green Apple and you get a very faint smell of the fruit, but mostly the oil just smells clean/fresh. The brush is on the stiff side, which is smart because I can apply oil to target areas without wasting or making a mess. The oil is thin but stays where you apply, no dripping off or travelling anywhere. I treat both my cuticle and nails by just applying small amounts and I like that the brush does not even waste a drop when it travels from the bottle to my nail, and back and forth….sort of makes me wonder how easy this is and why I did not do it sooner. One of the reasons has been that my former oil was messy and left a residue on my actual nail. Nubar has more than just oils and gorgeous nail colors, so I definitely added them to the “buy list” because I’m loving this cuticle and nail oil! A 0.5 fluid ounce bottle retails for $10.00 and they have other scents like Vanilla, Passion Fruit & Grape.

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Item #3: Swissco Bath and Body Shower Exfoliating Gloves

These are pink in color so I can’t be called a mime in the shower! The gloves are easy on the skin while making the job of removing dead skin cells a breeze. I love that you can target areas like the ankles easily and because my fingers curve better than my shower poof, I can exfoliate between my toes!!! They also stay on and I find I use less shower gel than I did with the mesh poof, so I waste less! I make sure to rinse them off well, hang them, and they are dry and ready to use the next time I shower. Swissco, has so many products from these gloves to beauty items so get ready to spend some time on their site. I also like the price point of just $5.00 for a pair.

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Item #4: Jergens Daily Moisturizer

Jergens is a brand that we always have in the home from their body moisturizers to their specialty lines, like products for dry skin to target areas like hands and feet. Included was a 1 fluid ounce bottle of their Daily Moisture lotion for dry skin. My skin tends to not retain moisture in the colder months, so I go through lotion quicker and especially if it’s not formulated to fit my needs. I used the Jergens Daily Moisture and found the formula lasted very close to the 24-hour hydration they advertise. The moisturizer soothed my skin and calmed irritations well after shaving, plus it costs less than my current brand. The scent is light and undetectable once applied and this bottle is the perfect size to have by the sink. Jergens retails the lotion at $6.99 for a 21 fluid ounce bottle. Add a coupon and you are golden!

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Item #5: Epic Blend Hemp Coconut Lip Balm

I love coconut and I have owned hemp based products in the past but have never tried a lip balm. First, I must share that when I opened it, the balm smells like coconut but not the type they use like in car fresheners…..real coconut. I wanted to bite it! Now that I got that part out of my system and I applied the lip balm, it goes on silky and smooth and yes, I smell that coco-licious scent that is heavenly. I would say I miss the sun if I did not live in California! The product covers well but feels light, so you do not feel like your lips can’t breathe. It works and nicely moisturized my lips and when it wore down, my lips remained soft and replenished. Epic Blend labels this as an organic balm and that’s important with all the unhealthy stuff we tend to put on our lips for beauty’s sake. It’s nice to be able to treat my lips nice for once! It get’s better, petroleum free, non-GMO, gluten free and they are even kind to bunny rabbits…..not tested on animals. The product retails at a friendly price too of $3.99 for .15 ounces of balm.

  • Save here- By using Code BB5 before 03/31/2014, to get 25% off sitewide
  • Visit Epic Blends at- http://www.epicblend.com #epicblend

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**Bonus** Item #6: That Awkward Moment Compact Mirror

I know I said 5 items but then BeautyBox5 added more so I am not complaining!  The compact encourages you to check out the movie trailer for, That Awkward Moment Movie.

I highly recommend BeautyBox5 because I rarely find subscription boxes a positive experience when it comes to item selections, but you can see that this one not only included new products, but products that work well.  Yes, I have lip balms, lotions and nail products but I can say that I found new items to buy because they performed better than what I currently use.  BeautyBox5, helps broadens your brand experience because tunnel vision with anything is not such a good thing to have, so give them a try today!  It’s just $12.00 and that includes shipping….no funny stuff with them!

Connect and Subscribe with BeautyBox5 at:

I received the above product free of charge from BeautyBox5.  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.

BzzAgent: Schick Hydro Silk Sensitive Care Razor & Skintimate Shaving Gel

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One of my most recent BzzAgent’s campaigns has been the Schick Hydro Silk razor and Skintimate Shaving Gel. The kit came with the razor to try, coupons to share and a free coupon to pick-up a Skintimate shaving gel of my choice. I purchased my shaving gel at Target and opted for the Skin Therapy formula that aids with moisturizing and hydrating, plus includes Vitamin E.

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Schick Hydro Silk razor is formulated for “Sensitive Care” and not only provides a close shave for smoother results, but has added benefits:

  • Hypoallergenic Serum to Protect against irritation (with Shea Butter)
  • 5 Curve sensing Blades
  • Moisturizes up to 2 hours after Shaving
  • Dermatologist Tested
  • Unique Skin Guards on each blade for added protection
  • Even a Soft-Touch Handle to make shaving a breeze

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I have been blessed with not having sensitive skin on my face but my legs are another story. After I shave, I get itchy legs no matter the blade’s age, so I usually resort to shaving aids like shaving gels/lotions to lessen it. I then have to make sure I hurry up and apply body lotion because if I don’t, I’ll pay for it and trying to do your make-up with itchy legs……well, the results are not pretty. I used the new Schick Hydro Silk razor and I noticed after rinsing, my legs did not even start feeling that tickle that then turns to an itch. I was able to get out of the shower like a normal person, dry and still no itch. I then applied body lotion but this time taking my time versus hurrying up to calm down the irritations. No razor bumps or even redness! I attribute the results to a combination of the sensitive skin formula but let’s not forget the moisture I was able to get from Skintimate’s Shaving Gel. The gel made it easier to shave and allowed me to get a close shave without dehydrating and stressing my skin’s surface. I thank the Vitamin E oil for that because I have used it in the past with wonderful results. The duo works so I will be purchasing this combo in the future!

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Visit Schick and Skintimate On-line to view their latest products and pick-up Money Saving Coupons:

  • Schick On-line– http://www.schick.com/us/hydro-silk.shtml
  • Schick on Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/SchickHydroSilk
  • Skintimate On-line– http://skintimate.ca/
  • Skintimate on Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/Skintimate

I received the above product free of charge from BzzAgent’s, Schick and Skintimate. 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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