Sugar Creek Candles Company: Monkey Nuts Natural Soy Wax Candle #SoyCandles

I have been a fan of soy based candles because they tend to burn cleaner and the amount of scent or how strong they are, is not affected by the soy base. Lately, I have been using a warmer and another one with a fan feature. We burn candles or melt wax on a daily basis. It keeps the house that cooks and bakes on a daily basis from smelling like food. Foods smells are great when they come from a baked treat like a cake, but a lobster tail that was grilled and then finished in the oven……well, not so great the next morning!

In comes Sugar Creek Candles with a decent array of scents to satisfy every taste out there. I opted for the Monkey Nuts variety, which has a tropical scent that is more like a coconut and pineapple blend, versus banana like the name may suggest.  I pretty much enjoy every scent out there from Clean Linens to the Spring floral blends because change is welcoming when you burn candles like we do.

Retail Price Point: $14.99 for one candle and free shipping if you are an Amazon Prime member.

Verdict:
I receive the glass jar, which also has a glass lid for when not in use. The candle is white in color and the scent was faint when I opened the jar to get an idea how it smelled. I figured some candles are soft when it comes to the fragrance notes they release and especially lighter scents, but they can still do their job of covering odors or just adding a nice smell to the air. This was not the case for Sugar Creek Candles. I burned the candle after dinner and I made Asian that evening. The candle burned for 4 hours straight and you could only smell it a few feet away. We have a high cathedral style ceiling in the family room, so I just moved it to the kitchen itself, which has a shorter ceiling. No difference and this was one weak candle. I blamed the food I made. Maybe the oils, chilies and everything combined was too big of a job for a jarred candle. The next day there was no residue left of the scent, so I again burn the candle for 2 hours. I stopped when I realized that as long as you are over the candle, you could smell it. Like so on top that you better not burn your nose (kind of close). I go outside to make sure I have not acclimated to the aroma and when I return inside, I realize this candle is just sadly a fail for size and price. It’s weak…..way too weak in scent and unless you want to burn a candle for ambient light, that is the only positive I could find. The jar is nothing special and the wax is white in color, so it’s not even a beautiful hue to look at but if it smelled like it should, I would have enjoyed and especially with the days warming up and now that we are in May, the tropical fragrance would have been perfect.

Connect with Sugar Creek Candles at:

• Online
• Amazon
• Product Link
• Facebook
• Twitter 
• #SoyCandles #SugarCreekCandles

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Sugar Creek Candles. 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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Mighty Leaf Tea : TeaTop Brew Mug and Vanilla Bean, Organic African Nectar and Green Tea Tropical #Review and #Giveaway

I have a coffee travel mug and even a tea mug, but I have never tried a TeaTop Brew Mug until now. Like with coffee, I feel a fresh cup of tea is as desirable and even though tea holds it’s flavors and quality better than it’s counterpart, I still would like the option to brew as I go. The Mighty Leaf Tea Company not only makes this happen but the mug works perfectly with no mess or fuss. The tea bag hangs freely but you won’t lose the string, as there is a nice notch that holds it in place. When you have achieved the strength desired in your cup of tea, you simply just pull the tea bag up and the cup does the rest.  You even have a place to rest the bag away from your ready to drink tea. The insulated cup allows you to just sip and enjoy!.

Retail Price Point: $16.95 for a cup that let’s you make sure ever cup steeps perfectly every time, plus it’s snazzy looking.

When it comes to enjoyment, Mighty Leaf Tea sent a trio for me to try:

Mighty Leaf Taste of the Tropics Gift Sampler-

• Vanilla Bean
  A black tea base with a deep infusion of Vanilla Beans from Madagascar. This tea tastes as good as it smells and even though vanilla has warm notes, this tea’s flavor is so clean that you get a light and almost crisp notes. As much as I love Vanilla, it can overpower if not used wisely but that is something that Mighty Leaf tea was able to balance out with true perfection. Simple but left me craving for a second cup in no time!

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• Organic African Nectar
  This variety is tropical and almost fruity in flavor. You get nice herbal notes and a kiss of sweetness that makes you believe there is honey in your cup already. This tea uses a blend of rooibos leaves, organic hibiscus and dried blossoms. I enjoyed this blend cold by brewing a cup, allowing it to cool, and then letting it rest in the fridge to get ice cold. It went well with dinner and because it’s caffeine free, I did not have to worry on those late dinner nights either.

• Green Tea Tropical
  You have a green tea base that is accompanied by dried fruits and flowers. The blossoms are marigold petals and cornflowers.  The fruits are also not your usual citrus mixes like with other teas. Think pineapple sweetness with even notes of guava. This variety pushed all my other green teas a notch down and became my favorite. I love adding just a touch of honey to not take anything away from it but most times I just enjoy it as-is.

Retail Price Point: The above trio retails for $30.00 and you get a generous amount of tea bags. Each box has 15 whole leaf pouches…..that’s 45 cups of happiness!

Like what you saw?

Well, it’s GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

One lucky winner will be able to win the above items and Mighty Leaf Tea will send them directly to your home. It’s their nice way to share and play Santa for us! All you have to do is:

1. Sign-up to their Newsletter and you already are rewarded with a 15% off coupon towards their artisan teas
2. Follow them on Twitter
3. Follow “Like” them on Facebook
4. and please leave a comment on this blog post below

Four easy steps and it could be yours. #Giveaway starts today 12/01 and ends on 12/14. I will announce the winner on the 15th and then ask for your information, which I will forward to the company. Good Luck!!!

Connect with Mighty Leaf Tea and find your favorite tea at:

• On-line
• FaceBook
• Twitter
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Pinterest

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Mighty Leaf Tea.  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 Giveaway prize will be supplied by the manufacture and items/product package may change if items above are out of stock.

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!

Grab Bags of Goodness from Gourmet Nut #Review

 

A while back I got the opportunity to take a few Gourmet Nut’s products for a test drive, and boy howdy were they the belle of the ball. Great flavors in their salts and sugars that brought out the best of whatever dish they were added to. But Gourmet Nut wasn’t finished by a long shot. There was also the little matter of their “Gourmet on the Go” line of snack packs. I got to try 4 different varieties, some more than others thanks to the snarfing of a certain hubby who shall remain nameless.

I’ll start with the mix that went “poof” first, the Cajun Hot Mix. A combination of sesame sticks, peanuts, cajun corn sticks, almonds, and tasty chili bits, this one was a tasty little number that had the added benefit of just a touch of heat. Fans of this blog know that in my house, the hotter the better. And while this mix some heat, it wasn’t so hot as to discourage the chilie-challenged among us from diving in, either. It wasn’t loaded with sodium either, like so many other savory snack packs from other “bigger” brands. All while being trans-fat free, cholesterol-free, and vegan. Not too shabby! This generous 8 oz. bag was gone, baby, gone within a calendar week thanks to Mr. Snack Vacuum over here, but the little bit I got, I loved.

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Next on the hit parade was Gourmet Nut’s “Body Boosting Antioxidant Mix”. Bursting with flavor from raisins, cranberries, blueberries, dark chocolate, pecans and walnuts, this all natural, gluten free treat went over like gangbusters here. Fruit, nuts, and chocolate? Yes, please! Also boasting 5 grams of protein per 1 ounce serving, and just 150 calories, this 6 once bag didn’t last kissing time either. At least I got more than a token handful this time. And every little bit was fresh, full and bursting with flavor. Not a bag full of broken bits and powder, either. Just a Bag of win.

 

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Number three is one that I’m sure will do well, Gourmet Nut’s “Energize Me” Protein Mix. 8 ounces filled to brim with dried cherries, raisins, almonds, cashews, peanuts and pumpkin seeds. All natural, vegan and gluten free, this is a satisfying mouthful for just about anyone. Hubby, usually in  staunch opposition to nuts of almost any kind, even grabbed a handful or three. The dried fruit isn’t overly sweet, and the nuts roasty, not salty. Each one ounce serving gives you a whopping 7 grams of protein, 3 grams of dietary fiber, and only 150 calories. A crunchy little snack like this goes well with this household, especially since we don’t eat lunch but can get “munchy” between breakfast and dinner. This plugs that hole perfectly.

 

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Last on the hit parade is Gourmet Nut’s Nature’s Mix. This one I loved, with raisins, cranberries, peanuts, pineapple, papaya, almonds, and cashews. It has everything but my name. All natural, gluten free, and vegan. This 8 ounce bag is only 120 calories per serving, and is another excellent mid day snack. It’s also cholesterol free, and trans-fat free. Hubby isn’t crazy about papaya and pineapple, so it didn’t get squirreled away and an empty bag just appear like some of the other varieties. So I got to take my time with the one and really enjoy it. And believe me, I enjoyed the heck out of it.

 

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Gourmet Nut has many more varieties in their “Gourmet on the Go” line,  like Veggie Chips, Mega Omega Mix, Almond Cranberry Crunch, and much more. With prices running as little as $3 and change per bag, up to around $4.50 or so (they’re sold in packs of 6), there’s a snack sack for every budget. Along with the salts and spice rubs I’ve reviewed for them, they also offer Health Seeds and Power Up Snack bags. And there is nothing in their line I’ve tried that isn’t quality. The salts are up there with some of my favorites, and the prices for everything are very reasonable. Too often snack mixes are loaded with salt, sugar, and fillers that leave you hungrier than before you dug in, and then filled with regret when you step on the scale. That’s just not the case here. What you see is what you get. You see pictures of fruit and nuts, and you get a   bag full of fruits and nuts. Very refreshing nowadays. Thank you, Gourmet Nut.

I’m so tempted to throw a handful of some of these into a quickbread dough and see what happens. Power loaf, perhaps? But that’s a post for another day. Assuming I can hide these from that roaming muncher I married.

Connect with Gourmet Nut:

• Online
• On Facebook
• On Twitter
• On Instagram
• On Pinterest
• On their Blog

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

Klout Perk: VitaFrute Cocktails by VeeV #abetterwaytodrink Acai Spirit #Review #Klout

Another great perk from Klout and this one was one I have never heard of, Acai based spirits. The company VeeV has this great line of drinks that they call VitaFrute. The superfruit cocktails come in:

• Margarita
• Lemonade
• Cosmopolitan
• and with Coconut Colada joining the trio soon

The cocktails are organic and made with the finest ingredients. One serving is just 125 calories and these all natural drinks are considered to be made by the World’s first Acai Spirit Company, VeeV.

What is Acai?

I have been drinking Acai based juices and blends for some time now but not with an alcohol base. The Acai berry or fruit is derived from the Acai Palm tree. These dark colored berries are full of juice, which is considered part of the super foods and super fruits we are encouraged to be consuming. The fruit is usually cultivated from the Amazon and located where lots of water is available (i.e. swamps). The fruit is filled with antioxidants and many consume it for the claims attached to them. I do because I enjoy how it tastes and was rally curious about alcohol derived from it.

I purchased the 2 bottles using the coupon from Klout and because they were on sale at my local Von’s, I was able to score them for free! I looked and hunted for the Coconut Colada variety since it would have been my first choice but I could not locate it but I did find the Lemonade and Cosmopolitan varieties.

• Lemonade– The flavor is perfect on a hot Summer day (or night) and I enjoyed the nice counter balance of alcohol and lemon. The combo was perfect and no mixing required. On my second glass, I added a little tart Cherry Juice and it was like a Pink Lemonade that was icy cool and delicious.

• Cosmopolitan– I have not enjoyed one of these in years and it’s almost the forgotten cocktail for me. I know I like them but never get around to ordering. I pour the Cosmo over ice and you can instantly pick-up the citrus and fruity notes. Delivers the same as it smells to your palette and definitely was my favorite of the two.

VitFrute by VeeV contains 15% ALC/VOL (30 proof) and the bottle must be refrigerated once it’s opened. The taste is nice and clean, plus Agave is the only sweetener you will find in this drink. Fillers it has not! I enjoyed it so much that I will be making a Lemon Tart with the Lemonade version!  I shall get my hands on the Coconut Colada one day and when I do, I will post.  I have plans for that one!  The site has great recipe ideas to even a store locator so can enjoy a glass of cold VitaFrute too.

 

Connect with VitaFrute by VeeV on:

• On-line– http://veevlife.com/vitafrute/
• Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/VEEV
• Twitter– https://twitter.com/VeeV
• Instagram– http://instagram.com/veev
• #abetterwaytodrink
• #kloutperk

 

I received the above product free of charge from VeeV and Klout.  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.

 

 

Smiley360: Centrum Flavor Burst Multivitamin/Multiminerals Chews Review

Being a Smiley360 member has it’s perks and one is being able to try new products. I was recently sent the Centrum Flavor Burst Vitamin and Mineral Chews, in Pineapple and Wild Grape flavors. I’m always about finding new ways to nourish the body because quite frankly, I get bored doing the same thing day after day. Variety is really what I seek and I have taken the gummy vitamins in the past, but not liking the idea of having gummy pieces stuck to my teeth right after I brushed them in the morning.

What a product is made of and how it tastes matters, especially if you will be taking something daily or several times through out the day. I do think in today’s market of supplements, just settling is not something you have to do anymore. There are so many products from drinks, chews, pills, to even infused chocolates….so I was eager to see what Centrum had to offer in this world of Vitamin and Minerals.

Centrum Flavor Burst Chews come in several flavors and range in cost from $9.97 at Amazon for a bottle of 120 chews to Walmart’s price point of $7.97 for a 60 count bottle. The highest price point was at CVS for $12.49 for 120 chews, followed closely by Walgreens at $11.79 for the same count, so I suggest price matching and seeking the lowest cost before you buy because they vary greatly.

I brought up the count because the suggested serving amount for an adult is 4 chews daily…sort of makes the bottle not last as long when most chews of this kind are formulated for 2 a day. The bottle will be disappearing at a fast rate but you can also adjust your intake by your needs and even adjust through out the day.

A Centrum Flavor Burst adult serving has the following daily values (4 Chews Count):

• Vitamin A 2000 IU, providing 40% of your Daily Value
• Vitamin C 60 mg, 100% DV
• Vitamin D 800 IU, 200% DV
• Vitamin E40 IU, 133% DV
• Vitamin B6 2mg, 100% DV
• Folic Acid 400 mcg, 100% DV
• Vitamin B12 10mcg, 167% DV
• Biotin 150 mcg, 50% DV
• Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, 100% DV
• Iodine 80 mcg, 53% DV
• Zinc 5 mg, 33% DV

DV based on a 2,000 caloric diet

You can see with the above values that with most you meet or exceed the 100% suggested daily intake, so this is why I opted to adjust my serving by my nutritional needs and Centrum does facilitate that by breaking up the serving by 4 a day.

Wild Grape Flavor:
This was my least favorite flavor because I picked up more of the vitamin taste and the aftertaste was just not pleasant. I also looked at the ingredient list and this particular flavor has Blue 2 Lake food coloring, while the other flavor I tested did not, so that turned me off on top of it being the worst tasting. I tried by day 3 chewing another and I met my limit with what this flavor had to offer…so not wild about it!

Pineapple:
The Pineapple has a nice tropical taste and does not list any artificial food dyes. The dyes listed are derived from Annatto, which is a food dye derived from the seeds of the achiote tree and Beta-Carotene. Keeping it natural is what I seek so I liked this, plus like I mentioned the flavor is pleasant.

Quick Note on the Pros: No water needed and you can adjust your intake on a daily basis because the adult serving is broken up into 4 chews. Pineapple was good tasting and the percentages on a daily values scale was not unfavorable. It’s more like a “Skittle’s” candy when it comes to texture, so no candy or gummy residue is left on your teeth after you chew.

Quick Note on the Cons: Both flavors I tasted contain Corn Syrup, Maltodextrin and Sucrose. I know Maltodextrin can be derived from barley and wheat, so this can be an issue for Celiac disease suffers. The Grape contains an artificial dye, plus it’s taste was unpleasant. Watch where you buy because the price fluctuates greatly and keep note of the count per bottle when comparing price points.

I do have a coupon to share that saves you $2.00, so that is always a great start:

• Save $2.00 Coupon– https://www.centrum.com/couponsinc-register-form/334/#2014

If you would like further information on Centrum Flavor Burst Multivitamin Chews, please visit them at:

• On-line- http://www.centrum.com/centrum-flavor-burst-chews#chews
• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Centrum

I received the above product free of charge from Smiley360 and Centrum. 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 Botanical Peeling Gel

And the hits just keep on comin’!

Eslor offers two exfoliants in their extensive beauty line. At first I thought why not keep it simple, like the face wash, by offering one product. However, each resurfaces differently. Let me explain:

The Eslor Botanical Peeling Gel aids with the reduction of unwanted shine, refines/shrinks pores, and also serves as a skin brightener. Since the product is a gel and a peel, it makes the removal of dead skin cells easy and after application you are left with a smooth surface that will appear and also feel softer. The Botanical Peeling Gel is for Combination, Dry and Sensitive skin. I have used chemical peels and microdermabrasion in the past to achieve exfoliation. I feel this Botanical Peeling Gel is everything you want minus the harsh chemicals, and uses the botanical properties present in the formula to resurface in a more “skin friendly” manner.

Instructions for Use: The instructions indicate use of this product once or twice a week. You apply the gel all over your skin when the skin is dry. Avoid your eye area since the skin is more sensitive there. You leave the peel on for 5 to 10 minutes and the peel tends to almost melt or thin out as it’s exposed to the air and warmth from your skin. You do not drip the product off but it does liquefy as the application period passes. Your final step is then to just use your fingers and rub (gently) in a circular motion and then rinse with warm water.

Ingredients: Being that the product is botanical in nature, you see in the list of ingredients Aloe Vera as a gel base and listed first. Aloe Vera has a multitude of benefits and in my opinion there is no reason it should not be used in place of the H2O we seem to pay for in beauty products. Extracts are present that are derived from Chamomile, Papaya, to Pineapple. Chamomile has calming effects, while Papaya and Pineapple have proteins that do help with the resurfacing process. Papaya is rich in BHAs (beta hydroxyl acids) and the fruit’s benefits range from lightening dark spots (pigmentation) to evening skin tone. Pineapple like Papaya help with anti-aging and the acids assist with the rejuvenation process we all so desire. Carbomer is also on the list and this helps with the solution of the beauty product, meaning how it emulsifies (thickens) and spreads out. Think about what makes a toothpaste formula stay whipped and not separate in the tube, so it is harmless and a product really created for the beauty and health industry. Sea Buckthorn oil is also listed in the peel and this aids with anti-aging due to it’s richness in tocopherols, tocotrienols and plant sterols. To give you an idea, Sea Buckthorn oil is used on skin burns so it does wonders when used in beauty products! Triethanolamine is another ingredient and this serves as a pH balancer.

Results: I have mashed Papaya and Pineapple in the past to create a mask but because individual fruit does differ in acid percentages and even nourishment, I like that Eslor has done the “lab work” for me, and I don’t have to guess how long to keep this peel on by how it feels. Not good when feeling “burny”, since means this Pineapple had kick and you left the mask on too long (Ouch!). The other ingredients help counteract the redness you may get when exfoliating, and you get to benefit from calming agents that we do not all readily have at hand. My skin has been feeling soft and I like that this peel also purified my pores by cleaning out the junk, so this means less break-outs and better looking skin. Less make-up is another benefit and that means I not only see savings in that arena, but I also just like how the peel makes my skin look without make-up. I got away with using it once a week and this was just determined by the lasting effects I felt and saw. It took a week to lose the best glow I have had with a skin product and by then I was again using the peel. Shiny!

Price Point with Product Details: The product retails for $38.00 for a 2 Fluid Ounce Bottle. I used a small amount that ranged a little under a nickel’s worth in size. I made sure to avoid eye areas and if I plucked my eyebrows that day, I skipped this task to avoid irritation.

Visit Eslor and their beauty collection at:

• Their Website
• Their Contact Page
• Their Twitter
• Their Facebook Page
• & Their Pinterest Page

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

Peeled Snacks: Paradise Found Fruit

As a few of you may recall, I tried the Peeled Fruit Mango Snacks and wrote a not too favorable review. I felt bad because going by everything the company advertised, the product was below my expectations and obviously not the common experience, so my guilt made me reach out when I launched my review.

Just like I expected the Mango to taste, is just like how the people at Peeled Snacks treated me, NICE! I received a very kind response and they sent a beautiful array of snacks for me to share with you.

You will notice that Peeled Snacks keep things simple and I like that. The less you mess with my food, the better it will taste to me and I seek these types of foods for my family. These fruits are described as “gently dried”, so you don’t get that dried fruit like I recall when I was a child, drenched in a sugar bath and gummy. Peeled snacks take a step further and are USDA Organic certified, Non Genetically Modified, All Natural and Gluten Free. You can see why I was lured by Peeled Snacks because the idea of food like this just tends to draw me in!

Let’s get started…..

Paradise Found

The Paradise Found features a mix blend of Organic Bananas, Organic Mango and Organic Pineapple. You look at the ingredient list and it matches the contents, just the fruit and NO SUGAR added. You can see by the picture below that the fruit slices and pieces have a pleasant look and resemble exactly what they are with no artificial anything. I call it Naked Fruit!

Taste and Texture: First, you do smell a nice fruity scent that can be described as tropical so it is properly named Paradise. The banana slices are just delicious and not mushy in texture or leathery, just soft and when you chew, the taste does satisfy the craving. Great in yogurt to even cereal. I liked the bananas so much and felt they were better than the dehydrated type you usually find in markets as “cereal toppers”, so I was glad with the large amount provided in the mix.

Next comes the Pineapple and one thing that always got to me with Pineapple in this manner, was that because it is a fibrous fruit, when they would dry and sugar them, you got this horrible crystallization crunch that drowned any pineapple that was left from the over-processing. Not with Peeled Snacks! The pineapple tastes and varies just like it does in nature. One bite may be sweeter and the other may have more of the bitter notes and I like that variety in my fruit.

The Mango is much better in this mix and I enjoyed how each fruit tastes like it’s own even though they share a bag, they don’t blend in flavors. The Mango is peeled pieces and tender when you bite. Sweet and completes the tropical blend perfectly and this is coming from someone who is not a Mango lover but more a liker:)

Stay tuned for my Peeled Snacks Apple Clusters in Cinnamon Crunch coming very soon, plus much more from this great company!

In the meantime please check out Peeled Snacks at:

• Available at you favorite retailer, from Amazon.com to Starbuck’s, so you can get your Peeled fix at anytime
• Save 10% on your first order if you sign-up for their Newsletter, so you can keep up with Peeled Snacks adventures (also savings); http://peeledsnacks.com/
• The Fruits at Peeled Snacks also tweet, so check them out on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PeeledSnacks
• Very social fruit and even have a Facebook Page at: https://www.facebook.com/Peeled
• Maybe you are into pictures and Peeled Snacks are not shy, so check them out on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/peeledsnacks/

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

Chobani BITE Caramel with Pineapple Chunks

 

Taking a Chobani Flip break and now we venture into Hawaii with Chobani’s Caramel with Pineapple Chunks. Aloha!! Sounds more like dessert but for me, I think of those days when I would melt caramel and dip fruits. This is an all-in-one so no fire required!

The bite takes a chomp at providing you with 8 grams of protein and nibbles at your waist at just 100 calories. I had to look twice because I don’t think Caramel and yummy at just 100 little calories but I get where the Bite has it’s place. Better than a cookie or an empty calorie snack.

The product is full of goodness too and not just pretending to be good. Chobani uses all natural flavors, sweeteners, and even dairy derived from cows that have not been treated with rBST. No preservatives, so the product tastes more like nature intended it to be and that is just perfect. You also get 3 types of Probiotics and live and active cultures.

Let’s Analyze the Cup-
I peel the cup and notice the yogurt has a soft caramel color, not too deep in hue and when you bring a spoon up from the deepness of the Bite, you see an avalanche of small bits that are Pineapple. No skimping on what the product states it is, so I like how this is starting.

The Flavor-
You smell Caramel and a little tartness from the yogurt and at first bite, you feel a warmth in your mouth from the caramel hitting your palette. It is distinguishable in flavor and even though it’s pre-mixed, the fruit kept it’s Pineapple bite. This yogurt is one I have found I like to freeze. I put the cup whole in the freezer and just when it gets to a “soft serve” texture (20 minutes in our freezer), I peel my cup and enjoy a nice walk in the garden. It has that caramel and the freezer changes the texture by hardening the fruit a little but also taking the warmth away from the caramel. I see it as I went to a frozen yogurt shop that is located in my freezer. I saved gas!

Ingredients-
Lowfat Yogurt (cultured Pasteurized Nonfat Milk, Cream, Live And Active Cultures: S. Thermophilus, L. Bulgaricus, L. Acidophilus, Bifidus And L. Casei), Evaporated Cane Juice, Pineapple, Caramelized Sugar Syrup, Pectin, Caramel Color, Natural Flavor, Locust Bean Gum.

• Visit this Chobani Bite at: http://chobani.com/products/bite-caramel-with-pineapple/
• Save your wallet from getting bit (coupons): http://chobani.com/coupons/
• Say “Hello” to Chobani on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chobani
• Say “Hi” in Greek, “Yassou (YAH-su) on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chobani
• See Chobani show it’s Cups on Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/chobani/
• Follow Chobani via Google+: https://plus.google.com/105549919806722403002/posts
• Hashtag anyone: #tastereal
• The yogurt cup even Blogs: http://chobani.com/community/blog/

 

I received the above product free of charge from Chobani. I have no obligation in providing a favorable/positive review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and brand, which may differ from yours.