Suave Skin Solutions: Smoothing with Cocoa Butter and Shea #Review #BeautyByMe

I was able to score a VoxBox from Influenster and part of the Fiesta VoxBox included a Suave Smoothing lotion bottle. The scent was so intense, that it permeated the box and it’s content. This would be a bad thing but this lotion smells divine, so it turned into a good thing. As much as I love scents, many perfumes and the such tend to aggravate my skin but so far all Suave branded products have been kind to me from hair to lotions, and even the leave-in serums.

Retail Price Point: $2.29 for a generous 10 ounce bottle

Verdict:
We established the scent factor is strong with this one but so is the moisture the lotion provides. The formula is very silky and smooth, so it tends to distribute a good barrier that is both nourishing to your skin and you notice a visual change immediately. I was concerned about feeling like their was an oily film and thankfully my skin seemed to welcome the lotion so much, which it absorbed every last drop but still left me with a soft touch when felt. I applied it after shaving and experienced zero issues when it came to things like clogged pores and/or irritation. The price for the amount of product is also fair and with Fall being here, that means I need to start preparing my skin in case we have a very cold Winter season. I will not only love how my skin feels, but that scent is just intoxicating…….but in good way!

 

Connect with Suave at:

• On-line
• FaceBook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Pinterest
• #BeautyByMe #Influenster #FiestaVoxBox

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Suave via the Influenster Fiesta VoxBox.  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.

Advertisement

Sano: Vitamin C Serum+ Daily Skin Revitalizer and Vitamin C Eye Gel+ with Silk Peptides #Review #SanoSerum

I have been wanting to incorporate Vitamin C into my skin care regimen after doing some research.  In the following weeks, I will be reviewing products that will focus around brands that deliver to your skin the maximum Vitamin C and hoping to see positive results. You can read my post on my research at- Topical Vitamin C use in Beauty Products Research and Information

My first to test and review is by a brand named Sano Naturals.  I liked from the get-go that they back-up their beauty products.  If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase and skin care experience, they will refund your entire purchase price, no questions asked.  They also include a bonus item with purchase and that is always a positive!

 

Sano Vitamin C Serum+:

On the bottle it states the product is of high potency and a Daily Skin Revitalizer. The bottle is a beautiful cobalt blue in color and the dark hue aids with preserving the product, which is rated at 20% concentration. I next looked at the ingredient list and you have an Organic Herbal Infusion, Aloe, and then Vitamin C. So far I am happy that water is not the delivery agent and other good quality binding ingredients were used along with the vitamin. The list goes on but everything is recognizable and friendly, not something I am use to in the “beauty world”. You get Hyaluronic Acid, which helps with inflammation (puffiness) and dry skin. It’s an ingredient you see for treating Eczema. Sano also uses kosher Vegetable Glycerin to Organic Jojoba oil. Jojoba has many good properties from being used as a fungicide and preventing mildew growth, to being able to deliver moisture without leaving an oily residue.

Results-

Even though most studies for Vitamin C ranged from a month to 12 weeks, I used the product for a period of 2 weeks. I eat a pretty balanced diet that is rich in greens, vegetables and fruit but I have those days that I wish I could say I ate bad, but it’s mostly that time gets in between meals and I eat late. Inconsistency happens! I noticed when I apply the Sano Vitamin C Serum+, my skin quickly absorbs it. It was so quick that my skin felt soft but with no product residue. I even tested one side of my face by applying just simple H2o and even water does not get absorbed at this rate. It usually would roll off but not this serum. So far I was happy with my first application and in not getting an oily appearance and/or feeling. I continued use and by day 4 saw what appeared as smoothness. Let me add no blemishes, pimples, blackheads or any skin occlusions. This serum is friendly when it comes to any acne suffers and even though people say mine is in the mild range, I myself is the one that deals with it so I rate it moderate at times to those moments that you get the monster bump that never comes up. My pores appear smaller just because my skin looks smoother and plumped up but in a good way! I continued use and noticed less was needed as I continued to use the product. My skin was hydrated enough that where I used 2 to 3 drops in one area, then changed to only needing one drop. The one drop then glided better when applied because my skin did experience positive changes. I don’t feel I have lost “years” when it comes to aging but I definitely look better. I look like I slept well, drank all my 8 glasses of water, and even ate well……even though that is not always the case. I was definitely happy with the results!

Retail Price Point: $18.95

Sano Vitamin C Eye Gel+:

This is a bonus item with purchase.  You again have a cobalt blue colored jar and I love that the product comes with a safety seal that you peel, so no air or anything that can damage or eat up the Vitamin C benefits while in storage. Easy to store and even pack in an overnight bag.

Results-

I never thought a gel could deliver moisture I was happy with but this one did the trick. Being that it’s a gel, the product goes on cold and instantly starts working on my morning’s puffy eyes. The Aloe in the product is very gentle to the skin in that area and I love how my make-up glides on after. Some eye creams would roll up sometimes due to the residue left behind and I had to then try to collect these little eye cream left-overs while at the same time not messing up my make-up. Not with the Sano’s Vitamin C Eye gel+. The product is rich in Peptides to Hyaluronic Acid. Do not be fooled, this gel does moisturize but the area is left with a supple and replenished look. I had zero eye irritations and found the gel friendly to my allergy suffering eyes. A little goes a long way, I used what I could as lightly dab out of the container, maybe the size of two rice grains per eye. The instant results alone of reducing puffiness is hard to beat and I used it with the Sano Vitamin C Serum +, just to get that extra help in my problem areas. My only small con is the product coming in jar form. I prefer bottles with pumps or that have an applicator like a dropper. I’m just not a fan of dabbing into a jar due to bacteria/germs, but due to the performance of the product, it would not deter me from buying it.

Check-out the products provided by Sano Naturals at:

• Purchase on Amazon
• Online Site
• #SanoSerum

 

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

 

Topical Vitamin C use in #Beauty Products Research and Information

I have been researching and doing my homework on the effects of Vitamin C at the dermis level because even though I have tried products that contain trace amounts, I have never tried a beauty item that it’s main focus was delivering Vitamin C.

How does Vitamin C benefit our Skin:
Upon reading and even finding “home-remedies” for DIY serums to putty like creams, I decided to leave my Vitamin C manufacturing to the professionals.

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a collagen builder. Collagen is a protein that helps in the growth of blood vessels, to cells (and yes, the skin kind too). Your body needs collagen to be able to rebuild and to even creating scar tissue, as this is a form of “rebuilding”. Collagen is what also gives our skin firmness and that supple look we all want due to it’s smooth looking effects. We all want to look vibrant and younger, so this where the antioxidants also play a part, something that Vitamin C contains. Antioxidants aid with everything from inflammation to neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals is what causes damage to our DNA and it’s results is aging, so may see early signs like fine lines, wrinkles, just plain old cell damage that comes from products, to the environment (oxidative damage) and sun exposure/burns. The vitamin is used for dry skin, healing wounds, helping with reduction of fine lines/wrinkles to elasticity.

The research is still limited to the total effects and benefits from Vitamin C via topical application, however I did read that the pH of our skin does effect how much we can absorb, thus benefit from the vitamin. Topical application of ascorbic acid will cross the epidermis into the underlying dermal layers, but you want the higher percentage (concentrate) to be able achieve maximum benefits.

What to look for in Vitamin C beauty products:
Like with most vitamins and my experience with Vitamin A (retinol), oxidation is a factor in deterioration of a skin product that contains Vitamin C. Just exposure to sun, air, light will start the degrading process, so look for products that come in dark colored bottles to make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck. Many of the better products will add other antioxidant rich ingredients to boost and also slow the rate of deterioration and conserve the ascorbic acid properties.

What can you expect by using Vitamin C:
I read studies both in humans and animals. Mostly noted was a high potency of Vitamin C levels being used and in combination with other binding ingredients but the main impact came from the 5 to 10% concentrations used in those studies. This may be why a high potency level will give best results. People reported elasticity changes to reduction of fine lines/wrinkles to a supple and smoother appearance. The impact is greater in people who may not consume diets rich in Vitamin C but even those that did have such a rich diet, noticed positive changes just not as apparent as those that did not. Topical Vitamin C may also have skin lightening effects in a mild form, which are caused by reductions in melanin production and melanin oxidation.

I hope the above helps when making decisions to include Vitamin C as part of your beauty routine!

Waxelene: All Natural Petroleum Jelly Alternative #Review

I have walked by it so many times, passed the Waxelene on the shelf at Bed, Bath & Beyond….that I think the little buzzing bee on their packaging teases me at this point. Thankfully, Waxelene took pity on me, that or the bee reported me for stalking, but nonetheless……I have my own Waxelene tube now.

What is it?
Waxelene is a blend of Organic Soy oil, Beeswax, Natural Vitamin E oil and Organic Rosemary oil. Pretty simple but sometimes the simplest things are the best.

Let’s talk about the day I receive the tube via mail:

I somehow burned my arm taking a bundt pan out of the oven. I would love to say it was when I was pulling the pan out and the mitt was too short but this was plainly me not paying attention. I was using a toothpick to check for doneness and rested my arm against the pan’s edge. I did not feel it until it was too late, and it left a nice slash shaped mark on my arm. I tried ignoring it, but the burn turned into an itch that hurt when scratched. The following day my scar looked like a cat got the best of me! Being that it was where my skin’s arm is the brightest white in color….I was not only upset by my lack of attention so that I was now sporting this boo-boo, but the scar just stood out. For some reason this burn dehydrated my skin in that area so the scar and surrounding tissue had a nice leather skin pattern…..I went from looking like a cat beat me up to then turning 1% lizard. I finally heard the bee from Waxelene buzzing from the box!

I try it and feel relief and realize I’m at day 5 now from my bundt attack. The itch is no longer there and I look less crusty when the Waxelene is applied. You still see the darkness but I left my lizard-like ways in the past. I shower and notice that my lizard-ness is really openings that are cracks, and bleeding a little. Bundt 1, and Me 0! I continue applying the Waxelene and notice a little goes a long way. No residue or odor left behind and it looks matte when rubbed in. By day 9 I am 0% lizard but have a scar that is lifting. I peel like a snake and underneath is a pinkish colored scar but light in color. I apply for 1 week and a half in total and by the last day, I have a very faint mark that just looks like I leaned against something…..very faint in color and barely visible.

I would love to say this was my first time having an oven “oopsie” but let’s say sometimes things attack….like that jumping salmon fillet when my cookie pan (which I no longer own) decided to jump and twist without even being touched. I thought I was a fish catcher and learned that fish fillet pieces are better left where they land than trying to catch to save who knows what. Wish I had Waxelene then. The tube came with a card that lists dozens of uses like-

For:

• Dry Skin
• Chapped lips
• Anti-Chafe
• Make-Up
• Diapers (for rashes or as a diaper cream)
• After-Shave
• After-Sun
• Eczema
• Dry Spots
• Lengthens Perfume life
• Hair dye (barrier)
• Nail polish (barrier) and also un-stick nail polish bottles
• Tattoos (barrier)
• Pets (from paws to hot spots)
• Stops Rust
• Control wild eyebrows
• and let’s not forget the new one, “Bundt Pan Attacks”.

Waxelene is also Cruelty-free, made in the U.S.A., free of Hydrogenated oils, free of Sulfates, free of Mineral oils and parabens. An all-natural product that is simple and works. Not greasy and colorless, so you are not left with a shiny residue that you spread around. The Waxelene bee is kind and I recommend you pick up a tube today! You never know when pans jump and attack 🙂

Stalk…..I mean visit the Waxelene Bee at:

• On-line- https://waxelene.com/
• Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/waxelene
• Twitter– https://twitter.com/waxelene

You can also find Waxelene at many retailers like Bed, Bath & Beyond, CVS, Whole Foods to Sprout’s Markets and many more.

I received the above product free of charge from Waxelene.  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

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.

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 “.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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:

• Online
• Their Contact Page
  
• Their Twitter
  
• Their Facebook
  
• and on Pinterest
  
• Make sure to check out the new Trial kits that make trying products a cinch. Use code KIT15 to receive your discount

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.

Influenster: Vaseline 24-Hour Men Spray Lotion #MenSpray

The hits keep on coming with Influenster. Next up: Vaseline has come out with a line dedicated just for Men with non-floral scents and formulas that have “man-staying power”, like 24 hours moisture protection. You have lotions that dry in seconds but hydrate, leaving your skin feeling non-greasy, but still soft. I know many men skip on lotions but no lady wants to see or feel cracked skin……so here comes Vaseline with it’s fast-drying formulas, giving you zero excuses on why a man should skip on skincare!

Finally, a product that is not for me or the pup! Yes, I blog and I try to find products I can share or even just geared towards men but they are really hard to come by. I would so try a hammer and many times would even find it as a stress relieving tool, but I have yet to find the company that sets this lady up with such a tool and I would even take a mallet at this point! So, I may not be able to start hitting things but I can at least help in the skin department. Men sometimes act like toddlers when a lotion bottle is brought up. I hear claims of it smelling “girly” or the ever popular that the skin will feel “icky”. Ummmm, dry and cracked skin is icky and I have seen some guys with let’s say ashy knees and elbows!

Test Results:

In comes Vaseline to save the real icky skin with a light formula. We spray a leg and give it a try. Husband states it feels light and wet but quickly drys, leaving your skin feeling like nothing bad happened. I never knew applying lotion was so traumatizing but I’m thinking some Hubbies add drama to the mix! I noticed the skin color changed (it’s alive!) but remain mum about how his skin now looks nourished and just focus on how it feels……like nothing happened. Hubby uses the 24 hour spray after showering and I hear everyday the spray going after he turns the water off. It goes on and on, day after day,  until I notice it on my shopping list, which hangs on the side of the fridge the words written, “Vas lotion MEN”. This is a guy that tells me he is out of something when I ask to be told when he is low on stuff! I still have to make “emergency trips” to the store to pick-up deodorant because he swore he had an extra one that then disappears. I blame the invisible funk gnome that must be one clean smelling guy for the stash of extra deodorants, floss, to even shampoos that just go poof. In the end, I am glad for the hygiene help and finally a lotion that is “non-icky” and feels like nothing happened, but thankfully is working 🙂

Price Point: $7.99 for a 6.5 ounce can

Ingredients (as listed on the site): Water (Aqua), Isopropyl Myristate, Glycerin, Sorbitan Isostearate, Dimethicone, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Tapioca Starch, Fragrance (Parfum), Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Ammonium, Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Stearic Acid, Dihydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA.

You can find the Vaseline Men Spray Lotion and other items in the line at:

• Vaseline Men Spray Line on-line– http://www.vaseline.us/products/vaseline-spray-go/fast-absorbing/default.aspx
• Connect via Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/VaselineUS?brand_redir=1
• Connect via Twitter– https://twitter.com/VaselineBrand
• #MenSpray

I received the above product free of charge from Influenster & Vaseline. 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

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…..

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.

• Visit H20 Plus at- http://www.h2oplus.com #h2oplususa

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.

• Visit Nubar at- http://www.bunubar.com #bynubar

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.

• Visit Swissco at- http://www.swisscollc.com #swisscollc

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!

• Talking about coupons, get a $1.00 off here- http://www.jergens.com/promotions/default.aspx
• Visit Jergens at- http://www.jergens.com #jergensus

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

**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.

• Movie Trailer- http://www.thatawkwardmomentmovie.tumblr.com

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:

• On-line: http://www.beautybox5.com/
• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/BeautyBox5
• Twitter- https://twitter.com/BeautyBox5
• Pinterest-  http://www.pinterest.com/beautybox5/
• YouTube- http://www.youtube.com/beautybox5

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.

Eslor: The Art of Beauty Skin Care, Replenishing Scrub

So the year is refreshed, started anew, full of promise and fresh looks. Speaking of fresh looks, isn’t it time to replenish your face too? Enter Eslor, stage left.

I’ve covered a couple of their products recently, and there’s plenty more coming, but today it all about Eslor’s Replenishing Scrub.

You’ll remember Eslor and their HTP System, using natural plant extracts and vitamins. They eschew the toxic chemicals prevalent to many products designed to improve our skin’s health. The Replenishing Scrub is no different. Simple ingredients like aloe vera, whole wheat flour, almond meal, corn meal, oatmeal, and honey. Wow. It’s almost good enough to eat! (Please, for the love of Pete, don’t eat it) It’s effective, my face felt fresh and renewed, and my skin had a healthy glow. I liked that I didn’t have to worry about this chemical interacting with that chemical. I only wish my makeup was this hassle free.

However, as fantastic as this product is, as much as I love this scrub, I’m hesitant to give it an unfettered “would-buy” rating. Not because I’m not in love with it, but because it’s pricey. Very much so. And again, while it works, works very well in fact, it doesn’t do anything a less expensive scrub could do almost as well. It becomes a game of inches: How much more would you pay for incremental gains?

Ingredient list as listed on the site:

Active Ingredients– Almond Paste, Honey, Apricot Kernel Powder, and Peach Kernel Powder.

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

Price Point: For a 1.7 fluid ounce container, the cost is $28.00 and this why I felt that the product is great but for the price point you can find a lower cost product, which would deliver the same results.

Lastly, let me just say as someone who is very sensitive to fragrances and perfumes, this one has both in spades. While it didn’t irritate me per se, I can see that it might over time. So this one, while great in the results department, has some drawbacks that left me wanting. Let’s see if Eslor has a return to it’s heretofore flawless performance in it’s next product, it’s Comforting Mask.

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

• On-line: http://shop.eslor.com/products/replenishing-scrub
• Contact Page: http://shop.eslor.com/pages/contact-us
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/eslorskin
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eslorskincare
• and on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/eslorskin/
• Make sure to check out the new Trial kits that make trying products a cinch.  Use code KIT15 to receive your discount

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.

 

Swaggable: Sia Botanics Desert Aloe and Jojoba Cream

I’m always game to try any new moisturizer because even though I have many, I like and use on a daily basis, I am chasing that dragon, the one that is going to take me to the new and better moisturizer! You bet when Swaggable offered me this opportunity, I snapped it up in a heart beat.

Sia Botanics is company which produces several nature-based products, with “natural” as their approach to skin care. I like that they have several collections that target your needs, whether they are age related, to problems that stem from dryness, even to combination skin. Each line creates a regimen that is right for you, so there is not a “one size fits all” mentality at Sia Botanics. The cream I received is from the Desert Aloe and Jojoba collection.

The Desert Aloe and Jojoba collection features:

• Desert Aloe & Jojoba Cream Cleanser for $16.00
• Desert Aloe & Jojoba Moisture Mask for 19.00
• Desert Aloe & Jojoba Scrub for $18.00
• Desert Aloe & Jojoba Cream for $18.00
• You may also purchase the set above for the Desert Aloe & Jojoba Dry Skin Collection at $71.00
• or the Travel set that is a great way to test a brand for $19.00

The Desert Aloe and Jojoba cream takes aloe and amps up it’s benefits. The cream is for mature skin that is dry to severely dry. I know as we age we do not produce enough moisture, but I can see this cream being good at any age if you have dry spots or areas you wish to add more moisture to. I tried the cream on my face and liked that it dries to a matte finish and left no residue or oily shine for others to see. I did not find the formula to be heavy. I did like that though it was light, it did keep my under eye are soft and supple. I applied foundation 30 minutes later and did not have any issues resulting from the cream during application or hours later.

I am a fan of Aloe and use it both in gel form to naturally derived from the succulent itself. I find that it never irritates my skin and always provides enough moisture to quench a sunburn, or just those areas you want moisture minus the grease. I’m always happy and satisfied with the results and the Sia Botanics cream delivered in moisture and not just oiliness that my skin never absorbs. The cream also contains Jojoba Esther, Desert Aloe, Evening Primrose Oil and Vitamin E. I use Vitamin E around my eye area and it always responds well so this is a cream that I would use to target certain areas of my face, however it would not be moisturizer that I would apply all over. I was satisfied with the results!

Find the Sia Botanics Collection that suits you best at: http://www.siabotanics.com/default.asp

I received the above product free of charge from Swaggable. I am not obligated in providing a positive/favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product, which may differ from yours.

Tree Hut Exfoliating Foot Scrub in Peppermint and Sugar

I rarely pitch companies but after experiencing their last product, I was hooked so I sent a line over and asked Tree Hut if they would kindly send me something from their line to test. They were very generous and sent me a second bottle of the renewing hand cream in Moroccan Rose, which I reviewed prior.  I also received two new products and below is the first one.  They are a duo, so make sure to catch the second review shortly!

Peppermint & Sugar Exfoliating Foot Scrub-

First, this is could be considered aromatherapy along with exfoliation. The scent wakes you right up but in a pleasant way….no jolts here as it does smell nice and yes, also delicious. Think spa with a crisp mint scent that just evokes the word, “clean” when you smell it. The product is clear in color with beautiful sugar crystals throughout, it just glistens when you squeeze the scrub out. I love that the product dispenses so easily from the bottle because not only is it more sanitary versus a jar, it keeps the product fresher. You have certified Organic Shea Butter and 100% Real Sugar, with Natural Peppermint Oil.

What you feel with the scrub when it hits your tired feet, is a slight warm feeling as you exfoliate. It’s gentle but most important, is how well it performs. My skin was left soft and renewed, no lotion has ever been able to penetrate and produce the results this scrub alone did. I always focus too much on exfoliating my face but tend to neglect or just not think of passing that same method to other parts of my body. My feet looked and felt new! I know the description stated it would leave the skin on my feet smoothed to silky perfection but I thought it was just a play on words because it is more difficult to better the condition of your feet so rapidly. Tree Hut meant what they said. I thought I felt the “silkiness” because I used my hands to exfoliate my feet, so I was unsure who was silkier here. I had my Husband verify and the claims are true…..my feet were extra smooth and nice. As an added bonus, so were my hands. The peppermint also relaxes you, so you get to workout some of that everyday tension that our feet feel from wearing heels to just standing and walking. Great product that I will be repurchasing when I’m half out because I don’t want to run out. I used under a teaspoon per foot, so my little tootsies will be getting the spa treatment for a while out of just one bottle.

• Retails for about $4.98 for an 8 ounce bottle

Benefits as listed from Tree Hut:

• Certified Organic Shea Butter: skin repairing & moisturizing, anti-aging, promotes elasticity
• Real Sugar: Natural sugar exfoliates skin smooth
• Peppermint Oil: Moisurizes skin
• Paraben Free and No DMDM
• Made in the USA
• Do not test on animals

Visit Tree Hut’s website!

Tree Hut is also on Facebook!

Tree Hut via Twitter!   #TreeHut

Even on Pinterest!

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