Valentia Beauty: Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum #Review #ValentiaBeauty

I have reviewed for Valentia before and this year, the company has extended their beauty line by adding new products, which cover a multitude of skin problems. Valentia uses a mix of both natural and organic ingredients to create their serums/creams, and most are multi-taskers, so you reap a lot of benefits from using just one of their products. I have said it before, the less time I can spend on my beauty regimen and still have it be effective, is the more time I can spend doing other things like getting my Spring gardening done!

Valentia’s new product is called the Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum. The new serum replaces several of your products by covering such areas as:

• An anti-aging serum, which combats fine lines. Both a prevention and a treatment when it comes to aging skin issues.

• Even though the product is a light serum formula, the user still benefits from deep hydration and moisturizing properties.

• This deep hydration helps replenish loss of moisture, which helps aid with the “plumping effect”. Your skin achieves a tighter appearance by addressing tone and texture issues you may be experiencing, to elasticity.

• You also get benefits from antioxidants rich ingredients and a combination of extracts that aid with achieving a youthful and more brighter appearance. Think of a healthy glow and this serum will help with evening out any pigmentation problems that come from acne scars, sun damage, and so forth.

Ingredients (as listed on the bottle):
Citrus Aurantium (Orange Hydrosol), Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera), HamamelisVirginiana (Witch Hazel), Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide (botanical hyaluronic acid), GlobulariaCordifolia Callus Culture Extract (plant stem cells), Sodium Lactate, UndariaPinnatifida Cell Culture Extract, Organic SimmondsiaChinensis (Jojoba Oil), d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Organic GlycyrrhizaGlabra (Licorice), Wildcrafted Arnica Montana (Arnica), Organic ArganiaSpinosa (Argan Oil), Proprietary Silk Protein Amino AcidBlend, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, (2s)-2-Amino-5-guanidinopentanoic Acid, Citrus ClementiaHortext Tan (Clementine Essential Oil), Camellia Oil, Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehip Seed Oil), Organic CentellaAsiatica (Gotu Kola), Wildcrafted Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail), WildcraftedTaraxacumOfficinale (Dandelion), Wildcrafted Geranium Maculatum (Wild Geranium), Alcohol, Lecithin, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol

Retail Price Point: The serum costs $35.00 for a 1.18 ounce bottle. You can find the product on Valentia’s website and on Amazon.  If you are an Amazon Prime member, shipping is also free.

Verdict:

I tried the new Clear Lift Revitalizing serum from Valentia for 3 weeks. The serum is very light when applied and just a thin coat is needed upon application. The first thing I noticed, was the serum is quickly absorbed. I lightly rubbed after to see if any residue would peel up like with other serums, but no residue was detected. This means I can use the serum before applying my foundation primer and not expect little rolled up balls of serum after. My make-up also did not separate hours later after application, so that is a plus when you can add a new product that does not effect the ones you already use. My skin remained hydrated and plump, which was the first change I noticed. My fine lines did not increase but because the serum gives my skin a nice glow and smoothing effect, it made that area of my skin appear smoother. I never experienced any break-out or blemishes, such as clogged pores either. By week two, the healthy glow remained after washing my face and the smoothing effect was both felt and seen. I had softer skin. I have light colored freckles on the top of my cheeks, which did not lighten but I am only within 3 weeks of treatment. I have not noticed any color changes on the one acne scar I have but not even retinol works this quick either, at least with the OTC products. I usually see color changes with 4 to 5 weeks, unless the product is heavy on “cell turnover accelerators”, which can sometimes cause redness, so I prefer the slow and sure thing when it comes to this process, which Valentia’s new Clear Lift Revitalizing serum seems to provide. My biggest positive change has been being able to drop two products, like my Vitamin C serum and the Lactic Acic in the serum helps renew my skin quickly. Simple to use and affordable when you start adding up the products that equate what this one serum can provide. I save money and time by using this multi-tasker!

 

Connect with Valentia at:

• On-line
• Product link
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Instagram
• #ValentiaBeauty

 

 

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

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Elba Naturals: N.2 Anti-Acne/Blemish Gel Treatment #Review #ElbaNaturals

When I was in High School, I rarely had any breakouts, so I thought if I got through this stage acne free, I would be safe for life. Wrong! Around my mid 20’s, I started to get breakouts and some pretty bad ones. I changed my diet, drank more water and nothing seemed to do the trick. I then changed my make-up, washed my face more often and even changed my skin care routine and the pimples were just laughing at me. I noticed my acne breakouts fluctuated with stress and some were even connected to medications I was taking. I seized taking certain prescriptions and that help alleviate some of the worse almost cystic-like acne, but I still got breakouts here and there, so I started looking for acne treatments that could help. That ended up being a trip down the longest rabbit hole I have ever encountered! Some spot treatments actually caused more pore blockage while others were so harsh, that I would peel around any healthy skin and the pimple itself would sometimes bleed, so I graduated from having a bump to now having a bump with a scab. Scabby face is not my idea of winning especially when you get one that likes to ooze. Here I was in my mid 20s and had a face of a 13 year old. Not my idea of fun, so I started really reading ingredients and found that 25% of the OTC products work, while 75% my pimples got the last laugh.

Remarkably, the natural route was the one I never planned on taking but when you are desperate, you will try not only homemade concoctions in addition to anything that resembles them. I found that many of the more natural products that depend on tree oils to extracts derived from plants, tended to work as a prevention measure. I could apply the product and nip most breakouts before they happened.

Elba Naturals is a company that offers a small array of skin care products that is focused on targeting problem areas from aging skin, acne treatment, to eye creams and micro-abrasion. Elba Naturals main goal is finding natural and organic ingredients that are kinder and more gentle to the skin but remain effective. Like the N.2 Anti-acne and blemish solution, which is made up of just 13 ingredients!

Ingredients (as listed on the website):
(98% Naturally Derived/72% Organic) Ingredients: Deionized Aqua (Water), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Carbomer, Arginine, Wildcrafted Salix Lucida (Salicylic Acid/Willow Bark), Colloidal Silver, Eugenia Caryophyllata (Clove Essential Oil), Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Organic Aloe Barbardensis Leaf (Aloe Vera Extract), Organic Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola Extract), Organic Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail Plant Extract), Organic Pelagonium Gravoleons (Geranium Extract), Organic Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion Extract).

Retail Price Point: Currently sold-out on Amazon, but when in stock one 1 ounce bottle retails for $35.00.

Verdict:

The directions state to apply the product twice a day for best results, so I substituted the Elba Naturals N.2 Acne product as my spot and prevention treatment. I used nothing else to fight my acne, like no washes with salicylic acid or anything else that would sway the results. When I used the product in the day time, I also tested to see how it works under make-up because this is where I usually find I am more vulnerable when it comes to breaking out. Sunscreens tend to be that friend that comes with a temperament because as much as it is needed to protect my skin, it tends to be the offender when it comes to causing my skin to get clogged pores. I won’t go out without sunscreen, so I have to deal with the results. I applied my skin care products and the Elba Naturals Acne gel treatment to areas I am prone to breakouts, the chin, side of my face and above my eyebrows. I then applied all my skin care products and cosmetics like usual. No issues with application were experienced and my foundation applied without any beading up problems or anything. Through out the day, everything stayed as it did and I was happy that the Elba Natural N.2 acne product was easy to incorporate into my beauty routine. I experienced zero breakouts in my problem areas days after and I continued to use it. I found the Elba Naturals Acne gel treatment to work as well (and even nicer) than my chemical filled counterparts. What I found to be a welcoming sight, was zero peeling of the skin, both from any pimple to the healthy skin around it. It just did not dehydrate my skin like some of the spot treatments on the market tend to do so. The product may be higher in price, as mine is around $10 for a spot treatment but the gel applies smoothly and a very thin film is all that is needed, meaning this product will last longer than a tube of equal size. The gel comes in a brown tinted bottle to help keep the key ingredients effective and because it’s a gel that dries clear, I am not highlighting my acne blemishes with a white cream that even though says dries transparent on the tube…..it never really does. So, Elba Naturals not only was kinder and effective, but it actually works really well at preventing and I prefer avoiding a pimple than trying to just find a solution at treating every bump. I’m all about having the bumps not happen in the first place!

Connect with Elba Naturals at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Pinterest
• #ElbaNaturals

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

Dr. Bronner’s: Organic Baby Unscented Pure-Castle Liquid Soap, Bar of Soap and Sanitizer #Review #DrBronner

Going green or trying to simplify your beauty and hygiene routine is something we all should consider. Why? I never knew how many toxins and irritants were in beauty products until I experienced a negative reaction and unfortunately, it takes that for some us to take notice. I now adhere by the 80/20 ideology when it comes to my beauty routine. Eighty percent of products that are natural and nice to my skin and body, and twenty percent of the naughty stuff. So, my mascara and eyeliner fit in the latter category, but I have even cleaned up my nail polishes and face washes. My skin actually appreciates me being nicer to it!

I have used the Dr. Bronner’s soap collections before but not in this formulation. I was sent a nice array of products from Dr. Bronner’s:

• Unscented Pure-Castle Liquid Soap
• Lavender Organic Hand Sanitizer
• Lavender Pure-Castile Bar Soap

I love the smell of clean and this means just the freshness, minus the chemical storm I use to create. The parcel from Dr. Bronner’s had a glorious scent that was clean and just in an instant made me feel relaxed and tranquil…..and I’m high strong! I blame the lavender for trying to subdue me in the middle of the afternoon, but I enjoyed every second of emptying out that box!

Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 liquid soaps are hemp derived and I’m already on the hemp bandwagon when it comes to beauty products and solutions. I use a lip balm that saved my forever chapped lips and the miracle ingredient was simply hemp. The soaps are not only friendly to you but also the environment because they are 100% biodegradable. The Baby Unscented Pure-Castle soap is also Organic, Non-GMO certified and to add to the goodness list, Fair Trade Certified.

Ingredients (as listed on the website)-
Water, Organic Coconut Oil*, Potassium Hydroxide**, Organic Palm Kernel Oil*, Organic Olive Oil*, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Citric Acid, Tocopherol.  *CERTIFIED FAIR TRADE INGREDIENTS
** None remains after saponifying oils into soap & glycerin

Retail Price Point: $15.29 Special Price for the 32 ounce bottle on the website. $4.49 for for the 4 ounce bottle.  Via Amazon, the 32 ounce bottle is $16.89 and free shipping for Prime members.

Verdict:
Everything is great on the outside but does the Baby Unscented Pure Castle liquid soap deliver? Yes!!!! A little goes a long way and the soap cleans but does not strip away your skin’s moisture. It actually enhances it because the product contains Olive oil and Coconut oil……two of my favorite oils that are inexpensive but packed with nutrients. The soap is unscented but we all still pick up a smell from such products and this just smells nice and clean. Think of how freshness and a clean spring morning smells and this little bottle captured it. I have caught myself giving in to a few extra sniffs when using it. The liquid soap also has many applications beyond a face and body wash. I have used the soap for:

• Washing Fruit and Vegetables
• Giving the Dog a bath and especially after her surgery where she has an incision on her belly
• Washing bird baths and because it’s gentle and kind to the surrounding, don’t mistaken that for lack of cleaning power.
• Washing down the feeders where the squirrels and raccoon come to dine.
• To even treating my roses for aphids because there is no way I would spray 40 rose bushes if I did not trust the brand.

The uses are endless and I feel safe and comfortable using the soap, so that makes me a big fan of Dr. Bronner’s products. I saw the big bottle being sold at Costco and I definitely have already picked up two and you can easily find where you can purchase their wonderful products here.

Now, for the Lavender Sanitizer. Thank you for making a sanitizer that does not dehydrate my skin or nails. I have been experiencing dryness in excess from over use and because I try not to apply lotion to my hands when I’m out shopping (don’t want dirt and grime to have a welcoming surface), my hands have gone a dusty white in color from the over dryness. Yeah, the dryness that makes even closing your hands hurt but after using only Dr. Bronner’s Lavender Sanitizer spray, all that is gone. I finally found a formula of sanitizer that is kind to me but unkind to germs!

Ingredients (as listed on the website)-
Organic Fair Trade Ethyl Alcohol (62%)*, Water, Organic Glycerin, Organic Lavender Oil *CERTIFIED FAIR TRADE INGREDIENTS

Retail Price Point: $4.99 for a 2 ounce spay bottle.

Last but not least, the Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castle Bar of Soap in Lavender scent. Let me just rename this my make-up brush cleaner. I simply shave a piece off and added it to a candle votive holder made of glass. The holder allows for easy cleaning of my brushes because I can make little circles while the soap foams and the cosmetic residue, and whatever else stuck on there, just washes off. I simply then rinse the brushes and allow them to air dry before storing. My brushes both natural and synthetic have perfect bristles that are now clean and soft. This bar will also yield many washes because it is large and the lavender scent is calming…..something a girl desires when applying make-up!

Ingredients (as listed on the website)- Organic Coconut Oil*, Organic Palm Oil*, Sodium Hydroxide**, Water, Organic Olive Oil*, Lavandin Extract, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Lavender Extract, Sea Salt, Citric Acid, Tocopherol *CERTIFIED FAIR TRADE INGREDIENTS
** None remains after saponifying oils into soap & glycerin.

Retail Price Point: $4.69 for a 5 ounce bar.

I highly recommend trying anything from the Dr. Bronner’s line of products because I am confident you will be satisfied as I am with their products.  I actually plan to try one product in each line due to how well the items I received performed.  The products may be simple in what makes them but not simple when it comes to cleaning!

Connect with Dr. Bronner and their line of products at:

• On-line (free shipping when you spend $35 or more and check-out the 15% off Monthly Specials section)
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• Instagram
• YouTube
• #DrBronner #MomsMeet #AllOne

 

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

 

 

 

SAPO: Organic Bamboo Charcoal Bar Soap #Review #SapoSoap

Beauty facial washes and soaps are a plenty, but most that are suppose to help with problem skin, end up containing fragrances and ingredients that cause build-up versus clearing up! I have 3 brands of soaps that I have ever found that deliver simple ingredients that help not only at cleaning your skin, but also improving it. Sapo Soap is that third brand!

Sapo Soaps are hand-made using organic ingredients. This bar is so simple when it comes to the ingredients:

Activated Bamboo Charcoal, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Sunflower Oil, Safflower Oil, Shea Butter, Sea Salt, Oatmeal Powder, and Grapefruit Essential Oil.

The soap has a light lather but foams up enough to clean and safely clean the surface of your skin. The scent is just like sniffing a ruby red grapefruit with an earthy scent lingering in the background. Very welcoming and a perfect way to start and end my day when it comes to how it smells. Many charcoal and bamboo based products have a pungent scent that reminds me of clay and even mushrooms at times but this soap had none of that.

Retail Price Point: $10.99 and free shipping is available with Amazon Prime. The retailer also offers a 100% Guarantee when it comes to satisfaction with the product. I also noticed they offer a “VOLUME DISCOUNT” where you buy 2 and get $4.99 OFF ($8.49 each).

Verdict:
I used the soap for 2 weeks and was very happy with how well it cleaned because many oil based soaps tend to leave a film or give your skin that feels like you never washed it. Sapo’s soap did none of that. My skin remained hydrated and even though the soap’s price point may seem higher than others, the bar did not shrink much after use. I allowed it to air dry and used it by the sink, as I find this method versus leaving it in the shower in a soap box, works better. The soap dries quickly and keeps it’s shape nicely, plus this bar is larger than my Ivory bar. Sapo Soaps is made in the USA and when it came to performance, it delivered the same results as my tree oil based soap bar, which costs close to the same price and is smaller in size/weight. My previous bar kept my skin nice and clean but I found it would dissolve and shrink quickly. Yes, it lasted me a month’s time but Sapo’s Soap at this size and dissolving rate will last me longer. That alone with the results makes it a must buy for me. I love the convenience of a bar lasting longer and who doesn’t love clear skin? You can use this on your back and chest, and especially when sunscreen tends to clog my pores but Sapo makes up for it!

Connect with Sapo Soaps at:

• Amazon
• #SapoSoap

 

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

 

Foxbrim: Vitamin A + Antioxidants, Advanced 1% Retinol Complex #Foxbrim #Review

Foxbrim is a company I was not too familiar with in the beauty world, however they offer a small line of products that range from moisturizers to some with anti-again properties. Their focus is about keeping it simple but using potent ingredients that are organic and all-natural. Combining premium products that work and if they don’t, they stand behind them with a 90-Day Money Back Guarantee!

I was sent a bottle of their Vitamin A + Antioxidants, Advanced Retinol Complex. The product comes with a declared 1% Retinol potency, which is something I now look for in ant-aging products of this kind. I already like the bottle with a pump because this is the best way to preserve and slow down the oxidation of the vitamin. The product’s claims are simple:

• Restore
• Renew
• Refresh

Ingredients (as listed on their site):

Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera), Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower Oil), Isopropyl Palmitate (Palm Oil), Pentylene Glycol, Phospholipids, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Phosphate, Tocopheryl (Vitamin E), CassiaAngustifolia Seed Polysaccharide, Glyceryl Stearate,Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Oil), Wildcrafted Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea), Wildcrafted Resina Propoli (Propolis), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid.

Price Point: $17.95 for a generous 1 fluid ounce bottle

Directions:
Apply all over face, neck and decolette. Can be used morning and/or night. Apply after washing, toning and then a serum. Can be used under cosmetics.

Results:
I tried the formula for a period of 3 weeks, since I am already a retinol user, I did not experience the redness and/or flaking associated with first-time users. My goal was to focus on what I call the “triple R” results. The product did help restore moisture and I did not experience a decline in the results I had achieved from previous retinol based products. What my skin achieved remained and that is what you want to see when it comes to formulas of this kind, so the 1% potency is present. Foxbrim’s complex also kept my problem areas at bay by renewing the skin’s surface and speeding up the “turnover” process. I continued to exfoliate to insure the retinol was able to always have a new surface of skin to work on. My fine lines did not disappear but remained with a diminished appearance. My skin did feel moisturized and protected, plus refreshed. I never appeared tired or experienced any skin problems from the product. The moisturizer is simple but that is sometimes what we need after everything we tend to put on our faces. I do feel Foxbrim nourishes your skin and I hope in the future they release a moisturizer with an increase in retinol because I would jump on using it like I did this one.

Connect with Foxbrim at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Pinterest

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

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

Tropical Tradition’s: Virgin Coconut Oil, Gold Label USDA Organic

I have enjoyed coconut as a child from the fruit to the water, and became more curious about the oil when I purchased a product (spread) that contained Coconut oil and real Butter. I thought I would get a strong flavor that went with the fruit and while this is a plus for me, it is not for my anti-coconut husband, but he enjoyed the product after trying it. I started seeing the oil pop up in markets like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and even your standard everyday superstores but the jars were not all created equal. So much separation and so many color changes in brands that I did not know where to start when it came to making an actual purchase. Then I started investigating what makes one better than the other, because nowadays making a bad buy not only fills you with regret, but who needs a ding in the pocket book?

The things I learned are that like everything else, the cost of the product does not equate quality. You want an oil that is derived from a good, trusted source and a product that has not been exposed to light or variances in temperature. coconut oil does not go rancid as quickly as other oils and while it’s more forgiving in that department, you still don’t want an abused jar that could have lasted longer if the manufacturer had cared. I have used coconut oil for beauty purposes and found it wonderful for the skin above my eyes that is more delicate. After going through an allergic reaction from an eye primer, coconut oil mixed with vitamin E oil is what helped my skin come back to normal, so I am a believer of it can do for the skin’s health and it’s restoring powers!

Now, you all know I love baking, but also cooking savory foods so with this product test, I just jumped in and went with what I had in hand. I marinated two large chicken breasts (cut into strips) over night with cayenne pepper, smoked sea salt, parsley, mustard powder, a dash of smoked paprika, oregano, three pepper blend from the mill and then added one cup of buttermilk, plus one bay leaf. You can use coconut milk in place of the buttermilk if you want a more “tropical” flavor. This is my recipe for fried chicken but I was making both fried and roasted this time. After everything marinated, you will notice that the buttermilk/coconut milk will be well absorbed by the meat and this also aids with tenderizing. I then made 2 batches, one coated with (seasoned) flour for the deep fried portion and the other went in the oven as-is (on parchment paper) and I cooked it for 15 minutes at 400 degrees. These are chicken strips and cook rather easy but I was not done with the roasted chicken yet!

(Above) Just out from the oven and not browned with Tropical Tradition’s Virgin Coconut Oil

I then placed the strips in a pan with the Tropical Virgin coconut oil. I used just about 1/2 tablespoon and the oil melts clear and beautifully. Coconut oil has a smoke point of 350 degrees so I kept this in mind when browning. You will notice in the pan that because the chicken went in the oven with no oils/fats, it did not brown nicely but this is when the magic happens. I sauteed the chicken and it browns quickly and nicely. The top layer was so crisp that you would swear I coated it with some kind of batter. The meat remains juicy and tender, plus I noticed this oil was not quickly absorbed like other oils I have used. After I was done, I had at least 1/4 of it left in the pan and I like when fats don’t oil log foods.

(Above) Browned and resting after cooking with Tropical Tradition’s Virgin Coconut Oil

I allowed the chicken to rest and then sliced it to serve over a salad. My salad contained 5 different lettuces, plus some cabbage and kale. I boiled a small egg and also added a whole small avocado. Sprinkled some poppy seeds, smoked paprika on the eggs and pepper medley over the entire salad. I placed the chicken on top and had a meal that was not only filling but delicious and nutritious. My husband had a bite of the chicken and he could pick up a hint of the sweetness but not the coconut notes he dislikes. Let’s say you smell the coconut fruit in the pan while you cook but you do not taste it on the meat. I like my greens how they taste so I opted for a dressing I make that is just a plain vinaigrette (smoked sea salt, pepper medley, red wine vinegar and any oil of your choice). I will definitely be purchasing my coconut oil from a trusted source like Tropical Traditions because it is the best I have ever had!

You smell the coconut’s sweetness but even when you taste it from the jar, the product has more of a nutty like flavor versus what you expect taste wise from the coconut’s fruit. I also like how clean and non-oily it tastes. You do not get that unwanted oily film feeling that covers your mouth like with other oils. Try it today and from Tropical Tradition’s because they have a 100% Money Back Guarantee on 16 oz. trial size!

Guarantee as stated from their site:
Order Risk-FREE!

“We are so convinced that you will love this oil, that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on our 16 oz. trial size. If for any reason you are not 100% satisfied with your trial size in the first 30 days, get a full refund – no questions asked!” So try it today and start enjoying this wonderful oil!

Tropical Traditions has a large array of products and you can check them out at:

• Their Website
• Buy Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil
• Watch a video on Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil!
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I received the above product free of charge from Tropical Traditions. 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.

Montagne Jeunesse, 7th Heaven Argile de Detoxification

This holiday season I have experienced a cold that turned into a flu, plus with the added stress…..well, my skin showed everything I had been going through. I want my skin to look great all year round but with meeting up with friends and family, this is the time of year the camera comes out and I really do not want to remember 2013’s holiday season along with the havoc my skin has gone through. Oh yeah, I remember that pimple on my cheek where I never get it until two days into December! I was ready to turn things around and hopefully 7th Heaven will be my salvation!  ***Giveaway will be launched soon, so stay tuned***

I was sent three masques to try and I quickly reached out for what I felt explained perfectly what I need, the Argile De Detoxification Deep Pore Cleaning Masque. In 15 to 20 minutes, I have a chance to change my skin and it’s appearance and you bet I am taking it!

This Masque is part of the “Detox Mud” collection and I already like how 7th Heaven carries lines that can be paired up with your skin’s needs to the results you desire. Yes, make it easy for me because at this point with all the glitter everywhere, I am wondering if that is clogging my skin (yes, I walk out like a cat lady with cat hairs, but my evidence is glitter-rama). You know you have hit your glitter quota when you look in your mailbox and yes…..there was glitter even in there so now it’s even getting delivered! Your Argile de (aka:glitter) Detoxification starts with Glacial Mud, which is rich in minerals that help get rid of dead skin cells while at the same time softening and purifying your skin. You think of mud and dryness may come to mind but that is not the case with Glacial Mud, the mud hydrates by actually attracting water! You then have Organic White Tea, which I have mentioned before I absolutely love. You have zero adverse effects with a product like White Tea because it’s gentle but rich in antioxidants….the stuff that attacks those free radicals that love to ruin the day, and your skin. Free radicals can be blamed for pretty much everything from damaging your skin, accelerating aging and causing not only problems to your outward appearance but your overall well being. Probably even the holes in the ozone layer. Okay, maybe not that.

Flavonoids, a class of antioxidants, inhibits the growth of cancer cells and prevent the development of new ones so if I could bathe in tea, I would! The good stuff continues with Organic With Hazel, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Ginseng, to Organic Cucumber. Another ingredient is Quillaja (aka: Soapbark tree), which is usually used in place of Xanthan Gum (emulsifier) but Quillaja has added benefits. Current studies have seen benefits in acne to even dandruff problems. Quillaja is not only was safe for sensitive skin but provided less oil production and allowed your pores to look smaller. I also liked that the study found a reduction in acne lesions……please, oh please annihilate that cheek pimple that is right where my dimple is so I love how when I smile it likes to move up and down!

Let the discovery of the new me begin:

I applied the masque in the shower because I was short on time but I also like how mud/clay masks perform by using this wet and dry method. I felt a cooling effect that opened up my pores and I thank the peppermint oil present in the masque for that wake-up call. I made sure to apply the masque knowing I would be out in 10 minutes. I then made sure to remember to not dry my face and walked out with the masque still on. I like using my time wisely when I pretend I am having a mini spa day, so the last 10 minutes I did things like put more lotion on my feet to those forgotten elbows. After 20 minutes, the masque had changed colors and had dried, so I washed my face and softly patted with a towel. I applied my creams, serums and magic potions and then headed off to bed. The next day, I awoke and my cheek pimple was no longer pudgy and pink. I had a thin scab but no hardness in the center like it had for 2 long days. The thing had finally dried out and was now healing versus playing the game of I may burst today if I feel like it but then there is tomorrow. I looked in the mirror and my skin had a glow but that imbalance issue I was experiencing while sick was now gone. For some reason when I get the flu, my forehead likes to get oily along with my chin. My nose then gets enlarged pores and starts pretending to look like Rudolph, so I was glad to drop the red nose act that I blame my overuse of tissue on. Thankfully, the pain I felt in the corner of my nose was gone and I was so glad because I hate those “blind pimples” that hurt and enlarge the area but never come out to play (get popped). The masque had definitely kicked the no face pimple out. I applied my make-up and went Christmas shopping!

Final Verdict:

I would buy this masque again and again and even use it as a spot treatment for acne and blemishes, even though that is not what the product was made for. I apply make-up more frequently in December and sometimes even go wash my face to change to a evening look, so my skin gets dry to even producing more oil in my “t-zone” area because I have stripped the good oils too. If I felt an area where a blemish may be trying to come through, I would sleep with a dot of something over the area and the next day the pimple would be dry or it would decide to wreak havoc on someone else. No matter what…..it skipped me! I want to be skipped with the yuck stuff wants to attack my skin! Get this mask because not only does it help get your skin back on the healthy track when you were ill, but it also helps keep it there.

Visit Montagne Jeunesse, 7th Heaven on:

• Their Facebook
• Their Twitter
• Their Pinterest
• Their Web Store  *Right now they have a sale where you buy one for $1.99 and get a second one for $0.99!!
• Also, Their Website
  

I received this product free of charge from 7th Heaven. 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 or brand, which may differ from yours.