Zakia’s Morocco: Moroccan Black Soap & Moroccan Ghassoul Clay Powder Reviews & Giveaway #ZakiasMorocco

I received two products from Zakia’s Morocco and when I was accepted into the campaign, I decided to check out their website…….I was stunned at all the products and how well presented the site is. You have a skin issue, they have the products for you. Even though I was unfamiliar with some of the active ingredients, I quickly was able to educate myself and gain some knowledge about what an ingredient provides, application to long term benefits. I like companies that have an “open book” policy and allow the consumer to learn because I appreciate that, versus just being told, “here is a special potion in a jar and just apply it”. The latter always has no evidence supporting the ingredients and is usually a costly lesson to your skin and your wallet. So, I admit I started liking Zakia’s Morocco before anything had even arrived.

Zakia’s Morocco, Moroccan Black Soap with Argan Oil-

I looked at the jar and it’s a dark colored solution that is more a very dark brown but the hue is maybe 2 shades lighter before black. Not the hue you associate with soap and then I thought about charcoal and again I was wrong! I open the jar and the scent is earthy but not unpleasant. I then realize after reading that the product is made with an olive pulp that is sometimes called “olive pumice”. The pulp is classified as a by-product, meaning it’s the left-over from production and on most times it’s olive oil. Now, the color makes sense! When you produce olive oil, the pulp left is about 50 to 70 percent and some manufactures will then produce a lesser quality oil on the second press or find a second use elsewhere. The olive pulp is rich in antioxidants and nutrients (lipids, oleic acid to Vitamin E), so it’s not in any way just trying to find a use for left-overs. These left-overs will not only feed your skin but are gentle enough to be used for all skin types. I can see why the pulp is used and makes for a great emollient and for exfoliating applications. Zakia’s Morocco then takes this rich ingredient and adds Argan oil and a little salt and it’s really simply created but beneficial.

Ingredients (as listed on the website): Potassium Olivate, Aqua, Sodium, Potassium Hydroxyde, and Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil)

Retail Price Point: $24.99 for a jar that has a net weight of 8.82 ounces.

Verdict:
I used the soap two times a week for a period of 3.5 weeks. It’s gentle and feels good on the skin once you add a little bit of water and you work the lather up between your hands, before applying it to your skin. The Moroccan Black Soap by Zakia’s Morocco can be applied to your face and body, so great for the back and chest area. The soap did not ever over dry or cause patchy areas, it remains gentle but effective because my skin was soft and clean. My feet start getting dry being in sandals during warmer weather and the pool’s chlorine water tends to exasperate it but once I started using the soap on my feet, it not only felt nice but left my skin soft and helped it retain moisture. Even my nail’s cuticle improved. You use small amounts and it’s really a nicer soap for your skin that enriches it but also cleanses it.

 

Zakia’s Morocco, Moroccan Ghassoul Clay Powder-

The Atlas Mountain produces a clay that you have probably heard of called Ghassoul or Rhassoul. The clay is rich in minerals that help with skin’s circulation, texture to cleansing but without pulling moisture. The clay actually encourages moisture to build and this is why you see it in many facial masks. The Ghassoul Clay from Zakia’s Morocco, comes in powder form, which I love. I adore this form of application because I don’t have to worry about the product drying out and I can add it to other ingredients and make my own customized mask. The clay powder is not limited to the face, but you can spot treat blemishes to even areas of the body. Ghassoul Clay helps rejuvenate the skin and I always like how gentle it is at removing dead skin cells to build-up, and it’s irritation free. You can also treat your hair by making a loose putty consistency and it will help you regain luster back and also re-balance your scalps health. Things like an over-dry scalp to dandruff tend to correct themselves to even over production of oil, with Ghassoul Clay powder.

Ingredients (as listed on the website): Moroccan Lava clay

Retail Price Point: $19.99 for an 8 ounce jar.

Verdict-
Oh, I love it! Let me just get that out of the way because I already loved this clay before but you are giving it to me in powder form? So, I pay for the lava clay and that is it? I’m so there and I was able to use the clay to make my own facial masks to even giving my hands a little rejuvenation treatment. Being able to add other ingredients like oils to boost up the moisture for hands and feet (I even added a little to an avocado to produce a mask) is not something that can be done with other products.  I could use this one product to help my skin’s needs and to suit my “going on right now” issues like a blemish on my nose!  You rarely find the clay in powder form and I see it like when you buy herbs/spices for your kitchen, the pure product alone will always beat any (all salt) mix that is advertised as an all-in-one product. No fillers or anything else with Zakia’s Morocco Ghassoul Clay powder and finally being able to make my own masks to fit my needs no matter the problem, weather, stress level, is something I seek!  You can use it as a spot treatment too for pimples, blackheads, or any surprises you wake up!

!!!Giveaway Alert!!!

Win a gift card to Zakia’s Morocco for $50 by clicking here .  Then click below and start making a list!  Good luck!!

 

Find the time and please visit Zakia’s Morocco and you will love all the products they have to offer:

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I received the above product(s) free of charge from Zakia’s Morocco.  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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Petunia Skincare: Derma Roller, 540 needles 1.5mm #Review #PetuniaSkincare

 

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!

 

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!

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.

 

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

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.

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:

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• #petuniaskincare

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.

 

 

NutriGold: Organic, Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil Gold Review #CoconutOil #NutriGold

NutriGold is a supplement company, which offers an extensive line of products to fit your nutritional needs. Most products you will find are organic and also Non-GMO certified. Your options are endless with NutriGold, as they offer anything from multi-vitamins to herbal and dietary supplements, and simple ingredients like the Coconut Gold oil I was able to review.

Coconut oil comes in many forms from fractionated, Virgin, Refined, Extra-Virgin, to Cold Pressed and others. The clear distinction here is that you want to sort on quality and also take into consideration what you will be using it for. You don’t want to spend on a high grade quality oil if all you will be doing is filling a jar with essential oils and only need a “filler” oil, and this is where fractionated oil found it’s place. When you will be applying the product to your skin and/or consuming the oil, this is where being picky and smart really comes into play, so doing your homework will insure you get what you pay for. I always resort in seeking out a trusted source first and then narrow down what they have to offer. Anyone can claim anything so this is key!

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This is where NutriGold comes into the picture because they offer a Coconut oil that is sourced from the Philippines and is unrefined. You get 100% Extra Virgin Coconut oil that meets the standard and practices to not only be classified as Organic, but also Non-GMO certified. In the coconut oil world, it is not like the olive one where extra virgin and virgin have clear definitions/standards but a “virgin” oil is commonly known to come from the first press. You have the flesh of the coconut that is in it’s fresh form, pressed to extract coconut milk first, and then comes the water and the oil. The oil from that first press is what you get in every NutriGold bottle.

Retail Price Point: $10.99 for one pound or two pounds for $19.99

The benefits come in droves when it comes to uses of Coconut oil. You start on the outside and you have a plethora of applications that fall under the beauty category, from softening and nourishing hair to your skin. I use it to nourish and replenish my eyelashes after wearing a waterproof mascara, that can be very drying to the follicle and surrounding skin. You can’t find anything more safe and natural than NutriGold’s Coconut oil and it works, plus my lashes grow beautifully since I started this practice. I have used it also as a nail oil in place of those little cuticle oil bottles that always cost more than meat at the market for a small little bottle! I use the same form of application but save money too. No hangnails to report and because it works, I continue my weekly regimen. Go into the Cooking category and you have an oil that has a decent smoke point for being virgin and produces a crisp on meats to vegetables that made me rethink the fats I use. Coconut oil does not leave a fruit flavor, so you can really use it in different cuisines. It has a light finish, so anything you cook leaves you tasting what you made, versus what you cooked with. No refrigeration is required once opening, so it’s not an oil that needs to take up space in the fridge to avoid it going rancid.

I was very happy with the one pound bottle from NutriGold that when this one runs out, I will be seeking out the two pounder!

Connect with NutriGold and their array of products at:

• On-line
• Product Link
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• #CoconutOil
• #NutriGold

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

The Japanese Konjac Sponge: Green Tea Puff Review #KonjacSponge

I’m still on my Konjac sponge binge because they really perform so well. My skin has improved dramatically and I attribute it to being able to achieve gentle exfoliation on a daily basis, with zero irritations or adverse effects. Not all natural items agree with us, however the Konjac root really is so gentle and kind to the surface of my skin, that I can report less blemishes and just overall a better glowing complexion.

I learned this past week that not all sponges are created equal and a few days back had to unfortunately give negative remarks to a charcoal one that did not seem it was derived from what was noted. Not this time! I can easily report that I think I found the company to stick with. You know! The company that actually uses and makes a great product that is still 100% natural……that company is, The Japanese Konjac Sponge.

First, you will see just by how the product is made, stored and shipped to the consumer that this puff is on a whole other level. The Konjac sponge is nicely crafted and larger in circumference from the other brands I have tried. I have also learned through observation on how the “milling/grinding” of the vegetable root is done really makes the difference. Those air bubbles on this sponge are small and tight, just like I want the pores on my face to be! The Japanese Konjac Sponge company also has a huge array of sponges that are infused again with 100% natural ingredients to fit your needs:

• Bamboo Charcoal
• Cherry Blossom
• Green Tea
• Pure White
• Wild Mint
• Citrus Fruits
• All the above selections are also available in larger sizes for the Body.

I wish I found this company before because I was so happy with my first Konjac sponge, which I tried several months ago and that “Konjac High” started to fade when I noticed that respecting what you produce and make is not something everyone takes seriously. I started to feel the sponge was being treated as a fad and not really what it is, a product that works without gimmicks. You may see infusions to optimize performance but the base product has to be solid and The Japanese Konjac Sponge company produces one solid and great quality product that as of today, has outperformed all other brands I have tried.

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Retail Price Point: $11.65 for facial sponges and just $13.90 for the Body puffs via their website.  Visit Amazon and score this awesome sponge for $11.00!

Results:

I was kindly given the green tea version that is suitable for oily and combination skin types. My T-Zone has been acting up as the days warm up and my routinely normal skin areas have actually been more towards the dry side. On my first use, my skin is immediately evened out. The sponge feels solid in weight and balances nicely in my hand because of how well the vegetable root is packed and shaped. It’s soft on my skin and when I rinse my face, I notice I have an even skin tone and the green tea balanced my skin beautifully. I pat dry with a towel and 5 minutes later, my skin air drys and does not feel ultra-dry and stretched out, but just normal. Still soft to the touch and a nice glow but I can’t get pass the even complexion it left. I’m not blotchy and I remain like this for hours because I went with zero moisturizers to see if the green tea would dry me out. It did not!

Ingredients: 100% Konjac Glucomannan, Japanese Green Tea Extract, and Green Clay. The product is also handmade in Japan.

Final Verdict:

All these sponges orbit the $10 price point and some fluctuate up towards $12, with $18 being the highest I have seen. As most are $10, let me tell you that your face and safety of what you are using is worth the extra $1.65 here! The Japanese Konjac Sponge company takes care in production, they have a website that is full of information that is well written and easy for the consumer to learn how and what Konjac sponge will fit their needs. They have a web presence and coming from the girl that has tested all these 100% natural products, they are truly not all 100% equal so go with the best I have found so far, The Japanese Konjac Sponge Company.

Find the Konjac Sponge that fits your needs at:

• On-line
• Green Tea Konjac Sponge Link
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Amazon
• Instagram
• Pinterest
• Google+
• YouTube

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from The Japanese Konjac Company.  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.

Naturalico: Organic and Natural Vitamin C & Vitamin E Serum Review #vitamincserum

 

 

As you may know, I have been using Vitamin C serums and/or creams back to back. This allows me to know if a product is effective by easily seeing improvements (i.e. better potency), or a decline (i.e. not as advertised). Sometimes I stay as-is and this to me means that the product was as effective as the one before. I’m a believer at finding the best value when it comes to anything and this includes beauty products. Why pay more for the same ingredients? Vitamin C is not expensive or a limited source, so I look for absorbency rates and what makes this bottle the go-to one.

Naturalico, is company that makes two products and based in the U.S. Their products are a combination of natural and organic ingredients. I received a bottle of their Vitamin C 20% and Vitamin E serum to try for a period of 4-weeks.

I noticed at first that the product contains one of the longer list of ingredients associated with the Vitamin C (20%) serums now on the market. Everyone is punching up the percentages and/or combination of vitamins to anti-aging ingredients, to distinguish themselves from the rest and Naturalico is no different.

Ingredients:

• Key Ingredients- 20% VITAMIN C, ORGANIC ROSEHIP OIL, ORGANIC SEA BUCKTHORN OIL, RESISTEM (PLANT STEM CELLS), HYALURONIC ACID(BOTANICAL), GREEN TEA EXTRACT

 

• Herbal Infusion Ingredients- Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Gotu Kola, Organic Horsetail, Organic Geranium, Organic Dandelion

 

The formula is complex and I did experience hydration benefits, as Vitamin C is suppose to do. The Vitamin E is light in texture and not at all like you would experience from a capsule. I get hesitant when I see Vitamin E in a product and it’s not for disliking the vitamin’s benefits, but the oil can be clogging to my pores and cause a little bit of irritation. I did not experience any congested pores from Naturalico’s product. The dropper easily distributes the amount needed and like with ingredients that oxidize, a amber toned bottle was used to minimize and slow down the loss (in potency) that occurs. I used the product under my eyes and any areas of the skin that ranged from ultra-sensitive to just normal, never experienced peeling or redness……just that good old moisturizing punch you get from these ingredients.

Retail Price Point: $18.88 for a 1 fluid ounce bottle via Amazon

Naturalico, guarantees the product and wants the user of their products to be satisfied, so I did see a 100% Money-Back guarantee in the listing. I used the serum under make-up and my foundation did not ripple or suffer hours later from having used it. Some serums and creams can increase oil production but this formula did not, and actually kept mine in check.

 

 

Connect with Naturalico at:

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• #VitaminSerum

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

InstaNatural: Cellulite Cream #Review #InstaNatural

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

InstaNatural: Cellulite Cream

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pure Sol: The Original Konjac Facial Sponge #Review #konjacsponge

In a beauty world that is consumed with chemicals, it is nice to find a company that takes the natural approach and especially when it comes to cleaning the very thing you are trying to keep looking it’s best, your skin!

What exactly is a Konjac Sponge-

The Konjac Sponge is made from 100 percent preservative-free konjac root. This is a root-based vegetable, which in Asia has been cultivated for it’s fibers. The root’s fibers are a perfect detoxifying and purifying agent. The fibers calm and exfoliate, creating a sponge that is delicate to sensitive skin. The Konjac root material is natural in alkaline and balances the acidity of your skin by removing impurities and oils, such as build-up from congested pores. Blackheads and acne issues are easily corrected and managed because the fiber of the root provides gentle exfoliation. No chemicals here to encourage redness, irritations, or more skin problems!

The root is naturally enriched with many minerals and vitamins but remains gentle enough for the sensitive skin suffers. The Konjac sponge provides deep-cleansing, leaving you with a natural PH balanced surface.

Pure Sol offers a large array of Konjac sponges, with each variety addressing different needs. I was able to review the Original sponge from their product line. Their Original Konjac sponge provides the following benefits:

• Deep Cleaning
• Detoxifying
• Hydrating
• Naturally PH balances your skin and it’s safe to use on your face, neck and most sensitive areas
• Exfoliation
• Natural glow and softening to the skin
• Free of Parabens, Sulfates and any chemicals

Ingredients: 100% Pure Konjac Root Fiber and the product is handmade in China.

Retail Price Point: $10.00 for 1 sponge and 1 hook that features a suction cup

Longevity: The Original Konjac sponge provides 2 to 3 months of use and is compost friendly after use.  Pure Sol also offers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee with their products.

Directions- You simply wet the sponge until it becomes soft and gently massage in a circular motion and keeping in mind you want to apply light pressure to the skin’s surface. You want to clean and gently exfoliate your skin. You can opt to use a facial cleanser or use the sponge as-is. After use, you simply rinse and gently press the water out, then hang on the hook supplied. Make sure your sponge has proper ventilation to dry properly.

Results- I have had issues lately with make-up removers in wipe form causing irritation, so this was been getting in the way of being able to use masks or even exfoliate properly. It seems the chemicals left behind by the wipes do not play nice with this cold Winter weather, which is causing redness and even peeling around the sensitive skin near my eyes . I have been washing my face now to remove the make-up and then using the Original Konjac sponge after and once my face is cosmetic free. No issues so far and I am at the 1 1/2 month period of using this product. It’s easy to use and I love not having an excuse to not wash my face as I should, especially those days I am staying in and doing chores. I can get tunnel vision and brush my teeth but not wash my face and just splashing water doesn’t cut it! Using the sponge in this method allows me to use my masks as I need to and be worry-free if any chemicals are going to give me lizard eyes. I also found the next cheapest Konjac sponge out there for $15, so using the Pure Sol products saves me $5 without missing out on a facial sponge.

Connect with Pure Sol and their sponges at:

• On-line
• Facebook
• Amazon Link to The Original Konjac Sponge
• Amazon Link to The Charcoal Konjac Sponge
• #konjacsponge

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

InstaNatural: Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer #Review #InstaNatural

The next couple of weeks, I will featuring several products from InstaNatural. Starting today will be their Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer.

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

InstaNatural: Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer

This product is part of the moisturizers InstaNatural has to offer. You get a powerful combination of ingredients:

• Aloe Vera Base (no H20 fillers here)
• 2.5% Retinol
• Vitamin C, Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Organic Jojoba Oil
• Shea Butter
• Green Tea
• All products at InstaNatural are made in the USA and never animal tested

Retail Price Point: $23.75 for a quantity of 3.4 ounces via their site or on Amazon

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Application- Due to how well the Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer distributes, a little goes a long way. You use a small amount and gently distribute with your finger-tips using a circular motion. Apply to face and neck area and allow the product to be absorbed in full. I used the moisturizer following up any serums or thinner like products I applied before. Can be used under cosmetics and if you have sensitive skin, I would only use it at night. Due to the retinol in the product at a generous 2.5%, also remember to use sunscreen to avoid irritation. It’s something you should already be doing but sometimes we think we can skip it in the Winter months (major no-no).

What to Expect- I tested the product for 2 weeks. I like that the moisturizer comes in a pump to avoid air diminishing the quality of the retinol and is also not see through. Easy to pump out and apply. The product does deliver moisture and I did not experience any adverse reactions. The Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer kept my fine lines from deepening and I experienced within a week’s time, a firmer texture to my skin and mostly in the neck and chin area. Due to how little I need to use and how well the product worked, this is a must buy because I did price comparing and could not find such a healthy mix of ingredients in one product for the price point that InstaNatural offers. Most product do not even declare retinol percentages and I was using a 1% strength prior to trying this moisturizer. I experienced slight redness that went away over night, so I can state that the product does at least carry a higher strength than the former product I was using.  With continued use, I do expect to use this moisturizer as a prevention (i.e. to welcoming fine lines and the sort) due to how satisfied I am with the results.

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

• Online
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Google+

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

Valentia: Even Glow Serum, Antioxidant Skin Treatment – 20% Organic Vitamin C #Review

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 second product to review in my tour de Vitamin C, is a product distributed by Valentia. They have their propitiatory blend that is different from other serums, so this time I get the 20% concentrate Vitamin C boost among other key ingredients.

What does Valentia Even Glow Serum offer:

• Sea Buckthorn Oil– The oil is derived from the pulp and the seeds, which is rich in fatty acids. The oil has been used topically to treat burns, inflammation and help with recovery of the skin.

 

• Rose Hip Seed Oil– This oil is derived from wild roses by pressing the seeds. The oil is rich in vitamin C, essential fatty acids and omega-6 and omega-3. This oil has been used in many applications and especially to aid with “turn-over” and promote healing (scar reduction). If you suffer from acne scars, burns, to eczema, Rose hip seed oil can help improve your skin and because it leaves a protective layer, think of it as a prevention method. Great for fine lines too because how well it hydrates.

 

• Resistem– A patent anti-aging ingredient derived from plant cell cultures. Being natural, the patent states the ingredient helps soothe the skin, reduce redness, improve the evenness of the complexion and restore its natural glow.

 

• Hylauronic Acid- Think of this ingredient as a lubricant for your skin. Used on the skin for healing wounds, ulcers, burns, scars to just providing moisture. The acid promotes healing and may protect against free radical damage to cells.

 

• Green Tea– Rich in catechins, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Protects the skin by preventing free radicals and reducing inflammation. Topical green tea polyphenols can help slow down the signs of aging, plus the natural occurring caffeine may give a temporary lift to your skin.

 

• and also Organic Vitamin C– Please refer to aforementioned link for a detailed look into this vitamin.

Ingredients (as listed on Amazon):
KEY INGREDIENTS – 1.18OZ -MADE IN USA // 20% VITAMIN C, ORGANIC ROSEHIP OIL, ORGANIC SEA BUCKTHORN OIL, RESISTEM (PLANT STEM CELLS), HYALURONIC ACID(BOTANICAL), GREEN TEA EXTRACT

Usage:
I used the Valentia’s Even Glow for about 3 weeks. Upon first use, this Vitamin C serum had a citrus like color that was followed with a like kind scent. I thought I was just imagining it because the hue of the serum is yellow and almost gold in color, but I did smell orange and lemons even though no fragrance is listed in the ingredients. The serum is thicker than most and almost has a gel like feeling, which I welcomed because that means I’m not chasing after oil droplets. The dropper allowed me to measure the correct amount and about 3 to 4 drops is all I needed for my face and neck.

Retail Price Point: $35.00 on Amazon for a 1.18 ounce glass bottle

Results:
I noticed softer skin within the first week and I did not think my skin could get any smoother with all the other serums I have been using. I got a glow that was not caused by the color of the serum because after washing my face, I just had a natural and healthy glow. My fine lines did not increase or decrease but I had a smoothness in both texture and tone that was just fantastic. I did experience a few break-out on my “t-zone” the first week, however my skin was clear by the 8th day and remained that way. I did in part like that I got a few blemishes because I did notice my skin recovered quickly with Valentia’s Even Glow and I had zero scarring. My skin regenerated quicker and the final product (newer layer of skin) was better than what I had before, so I did not mind the 7 days of having a few small blemishes. I love using Valentia’s Even Glow as a primer because I need less coverage when it comes to foundation/make-up too.  Being happy with your skin means less make-up!

Valentia has a Lifetime Guarantee listed, so it’s a no risk purchase that may be what your skin needs!

Visit Valentia and see what their products can do for you:

• On-line
• Amazon

 

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

Swaggable: Alive Reef Safe Sunscreen from Sea Kind #Review

Sea Kind makes several products for the face and body, from sunscreens to bath salts. I received a tube of the Alive Reef Safe Sunscreen and liked that the product is advertised as being 100% natural. It’s a good start for my skin and especially with this summer being in the pool a little more than usual. The formula provides 20% Zinc Oxide and is broad-spectrum, protecting your skin from UVA/UVB rays. The tube came with zero information when it came to contents and oddly the product had no marker when it came to SPF. I know! A sunscreen tube that does not reflect the coverage of SPF was a first for me but this is why we have google 🙂

I seek and I find that Sea Kind makes only one sunscreen formula and it comes in SPF 30. You won’t see the number in the description on the product’s page and ready for ordering, but if you put your mouse over the bottle’s image….viola!

• Naturally Derived Ingredients (from the website):
  ZINC OXIDE 20%, PURIFIED WATER, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE, COCONUT OIL, CAPRIC CAPRYLIC TRIGLYCERIDES, SORBITAN SESQUIOLEATE, CASTOR OIL, POLYGLYCEROL-10 LAURATE, MAGNESIUM SULFATE, SUNFLOWER OIL, JOJOBA OIL, TOCOPHEROLS, ACOPHYLLUM NODOSUM. HYALURONIC ACID, IRON OXIDES, PHENOXYETHANOL, ETHYL HEXYL GLYCERIN, PROPRIETARY BLEND OF FRUIT, HERB AND FLOWER ESSENTIAL OILS COMPLYING WITH THE ISO 9235 NATURAL STANDARD.

NO OXYBENZONE. NO PARABENS, PHTHALATES OR SULFATES. NO SYNTHETIC COLORS, DYES OR FRAGRANCE. NON-GMO, CRUELTY FREE

• Price Point: $24.95 and again you have to put your mouse over the bottle’s image to see that it’s for a bottle that supplies 3.0 fluid ounces.

Results:

Being a Southern California native, I have tried mostly every brand and formula readily available. I look for a product that does not clog my pores, is long lasting and simply works. I always found the first two features present but working on my fair skin was always the issue. I can start tanning rather quickly with SPF 50 on me but not all are created equal. Looking lobster red is not cute no matter the bikini you just bought and let’s not get into how bad it is health wise and much less how it feels that evening and the following days. I was weary of trusting a SPF 30 product to protect me enough. I have even given up on being tint/oily free and found peace having a white film as long as I could swim and stroll without looking like a sea creature but I decided to test this out. You will notice the “Non-Nano” on the bottle and this means the product will not absorb into your skin. As stated on the site, “The 200 namometer size particles avoids the risk of absorption in the body caused by smaller nano particles”. The formula also says water resistant and I used the every 80 minutes rule when it came to reapplication because again this was not stated on the product or site.

Verdict:

I can state that the product is light, leaves a slight oil shimmer but not even close to calling it oily. It just looks like you applied a light lotion and my face remained protected with zero clogs or blemishes, so zero penalties for trying not to burn. I tanned but no redness so protection was there and this was being in the pool and surviving 3 tidal waves that my wonderful Husband claims 2 were pure accident but since I had already assigned blame, the third one was “just because” he was already getting the evil eye from me.

Final Verdict:

I like the product and wish I could have tried it longer but my test tube really satisfied 2 face applications. I like the formula and it’s claims. Being 100% natural is rare and working is rarer for me. I just leave it in your hands when it comes to paying almost $25 for 3.0 ounces. My application was light on the second reapply, and that equated to using .33 fluid ounces for 160 minutes of pool time and just on my face. I would purchase this to be seriously blemish and irritant free on the face but can’t suggest taking the plunge for total body application unless you don’t see the sun much and can make the tube stretch.

Checkout the entire line of Face and Body Products from Sea Kind:

• On-line– http://sea-kind.com/sea-kind-ultra-sunscreen
• Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/pages/SEA-KIND/424252987638160
• Twitter– https://twitter.com/SeaKind
• Google+– https://plus.google.com/106139072276040110862/about
• Pinterest– http://www.pinterest.com/seakindpinteres/

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Swaggable and Sea Kind. 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.