Smiley360: Nutrition Now™ MultiVites; Women’s Gummy Vitamins #Review

I am always looking to improve my health and nutrition needs. Being able to pop a gummy and then go about my day not only is easy, but sort of hard to forget. So many supplements in the market are made to fit the needs of both males and females, even though their needs differ greatly. Men require more caloric intake than a female would, so we already eat differently! Why take the same vitamins? I prefer always having to choose something that is tailored to me and will help when it comes to my hair’s appearance and nails…..something most guys don’t have at the forefront of their mind 🙂

Nutrition Now MultiVites not only come in gummy form and I’m not oppose to taking a pill, but why not take something that I can enjoy too. Their dietary supplement provides a blend of essential vitamins and minerals, that may help improve your hair, nails and skin’s health. You also get energy and metabolism support. What’s not to love? You add supporting bone health and great berry flavor combinations, that it makes having an excuse to not take your vitamins on a daily basis non-existent.

Retail Price Point: $7.39 via Amazon was the best price point I could locate, however the vitamins are carried at Vitamin Shoppe and other retailers like Walgreens too.

Ingredients: Glucose Syrup , Sucrose , Gelatin , Natural Flavors , ColorsPurple Carrot Juice Concentrate, Blueberry & Carrot Concentrate , Citric Acid , Lactic Acid , Fractionated Coconut Oil , Beeswax

Verdict:
I took the gummy vitamins by Nutrition Now on a daily basis for 25 days. The indications are for two gummy bites a day and one bottle comes with 70 gummy vitamins, so you get a little over a month’s worth. Nutrition Now made sure to give you a little cushion when it comes to those extra few days in case you forget when you need to buy more and I always appreciate that versus other companies that like to play the game of only giving you 28 days worth of product. Each gummy is only 15 calories and I can’t think of a better way in getting 30 calories a day packed with all your nutritional needs. I never had an upset stomach or an awful aftertaste. It was sort of too good to be true and I liked that if I had a sweet tooth that day, the gummy aided in nipping it…..so it was sort of like a treat. I did not notice significant changes because I do try to eat as clean as possible and at the same time get more than the amount of required vegetables and fruit in a day, but I did not break a nail! I always chip a nail at least once a month with all my crafts and baking, however I did not and you know it was not because I was careful. I think Nutrition Now is the better tasting when it comes to the gummy world of vitamins and for once it’s called berry flavor and actually contains blueberry. The product is gluten free and also free of dyes/artificial coloring because they use real ingredients like purple carrot juice as coloring. Easy to take and actually enjoy, so I would at least give Nutrition Now gummy vitamins a consideration because they are full of the “good stuff” and have none of the “bad stuff” that I usually have to look up to even know what is.

Connect with Nutrition Now:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• #NutritionNow

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Nutrition Now and Smiley360.  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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Aria Starr Beauty: Super Retinol Advanced Anti-Aging Serum; 2.5% Retinol #Review #AriaStarrBeauty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Connect with Aria Starr on:

• Amazon
• On-line (website under construction)
• Google+
• YouTube
• #retinol #AriaStarrBeauty

 

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

Sari Foods Company: Nutritional Yeast Flakes, Vitamin C from Acerola Cherries and Spirulina Powder #Review

It’s not just because I told myself in 2014 that in 2015 I want to eat better, a la New Year’s resolution, but I have been looking for ways to add nutrition to my diet via super foods. The only way to know if the “buzz” is real, is to get out there and try it.

Super Foods and what makes them super duper is really in the eye of the beholder, however the general rule is a product that is naturally fortified with an enormous amount of vitamins, minerals, omegas, and/or antioxidants, and so forth. As I ventured down the super foods rabbit hole, I literally realized that I needed to go beyond the Goji and Acai berries I was so comfortable with already eating and drinking. I needed to go old school and give Spirulina powder a try, to the ultimate cherries called Acerolas. Yeast flakes is new to me and when the package stated it tastes like cheese, I know I love cheeses but unsure if a yeast flake had the “moo flavor” I was looking for. Time to get out of my comfort zone!

Spirulina Powder– Sari Food’s provides you with a 100% purely organic powder, so that is a positive beginning. Spirulina is not new to the world of super foods that even the Aztecs consumed such a gem. The plant grows and thrives in water beds/lakes and is magical on it’s own, where it even creates it’s own feed so it can thrive. I was already intrigued by the idea of something creating nutrients for itself and to me that was like have an endless supply of energy bars in your purse! The protein level is insane when you look at the amount of product that delivers such a high content. Sarii Food’s Spirulina has 6.5 grams of protein for every 10 grams of servings, that equates to one heaping tablespoon, and it does not stop there:

You have Iron and 6.0 mg, which is 33% of your D.V.
Vitamin A 27 mg, so you get 1800% of your D.V. and we are still on 1 tablespoon’s worth.
Vitamin B12 15mcg., giving you 250% of your D.V.
Vitamin B2 comes at 450 mcg., and 28% of your D.V.
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is 350 mcg., and provides 25% of your D.V.
Niacin, known as Vitamin B3 is 3 mg and 15% of your D.V,
Magnesium is 48 mg, and 12% of your D.V.
Vitamin K is 40 mg and a generous 50% of your D.V,
Folic Acid is an astonishing 450 mcg, and comes to 113% of your D.V.
Plus, Total Carotenoids at 30 mg
Chlorophyll at 60 mg
Phycocyanin at 800 mg
Gamma-Linolenic Acid
DHA at 70 mg (Docosahexaenoic acid) which helps with brain function and is an Omega-3 fatty acid, comes at 70 mg

Retail Price Point: $23.95 via Amazon for a 16 ounce package, which provides 45 servings .

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That is a lot in just 1 heaping tablespoon. I tried the product by adding it to smoothies and to my morning power breakfast, which is mixed with fruit, yogurt and granola. The taste did not affect my breakfast in a negative way and by week one, I did notice I felt better but I did not stop taking my daily supplements, so Sari Foods’s Spirulina really filled the void that was missing and/or needed in my daily nutrition intake. The protein is plant based and is even rated better than what you get from legumes and without the bloating effects or feeling too full from eating beans. Studies wise I found very little when it came to having a negative impact from Spirulina and because I can’t beat the boost of energy I have been experiencing, I am addicted to feeling better so will continue it’s use.

Vitamin C powder from Acerola Cherries– Sari Food’s again provides us with a 100% USDA certified, Organic product. The package states that just 1 Acerola Cherry gives you the vitamin C of 65 oranges. Okay, you got my attention! The Acerola cherry tree is found in many regions like Brazil, where so many super foods derive from to California, Florida, Texas and certain regions in South America. The fruit tends to deteriorate quickly once ripe, so cultivation and process is key in making sure you get the most out of every red little gem the tree produces. When I stated quickly deteriorating, think of when you cut into an apple or potato and the Acerola cherry comes near that. Within 4 hours from just harvesting, a negative impact in appearance and in texture is already visible. That is one delicate little cherry but not when it comes to nutrition:

I mentioned the orange versus acerola statement above but to put it into perspective, this cherry juice gives you 13 times more Vitamin C than one glass of O.J.  Sari Food’s has made the impact even better by just 1 teaspoon giving you 500 mg, that is 833% of your D.V. The only other ingredient in their powder is organic and non-gmo Maltodextrin, so nothing gets between you and your Vitamin C!

Retail Price Point: $29.95 via Amazon for a 6 ounce package, which provides you with 58 servings.

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I found many benefits on-line upon reading and we already know what Vitamin C does for the body and protecting our immune system.  Some studies suggested aid with asthma, allergies, regulating blood sugar, shortening colds, helping with the aging impact of free radicals, to reducing cholesterol and heart disease.  The claims were broad and some with clinical back-up and some just anecdotal.  I gave the powder a try for 3.5  weeks and the one thing I was able to attribute to it’s intake, was better skin.  The month of February was the best looking clear skin I have had.  The powder is tart to sour like you would expect from a Vitamin C powder but the package suggested just a touch of coconut sugar would help if that was an issue.  I went with nectarines and once chopped, I added the powder and it actually improved the taste of my fruit versus needing to fix anything with the powder.  I will be taking this when stress is coming my way, which in my world is on a weekly basis!

Nutritional Yeast Flakes– Sari Food’s gives you a Vegan product that is Non-GMO and Gluten Free.  Yeast flakes provide everything from Potassium, Iron and a multitude of vitamins and minerals.  You have also a great amount of fiber, so it fills you up without the guilt!  Yeast is consumed for many reasons and used to amp up a dish’s nutritional value to some people who enjoy the flavor the product provides.

Retail Price Point: $12.95 via Amazon for a 8 ounce package, which provides 14 servings.

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The yeast flake product from Sari Food’s in non-fortified, meaning you get a natural product that is nourished from natural sources.  No fake vitamins or anything created in a lab to increase what is derived naturally!  The yeast has a whopping 18 amino acids and everything from Biotin, which helps with hair and nail growth to 352.0% of your D.V. of B5 Vitamin.  You just take 2 heaping tablespoons and add it to “almost” any dish.  I will say the scent of the product really in my opinion is more geared towards savory dishes.  The only yogurt based spread I could think of that would be pleasurable in taste, was when I made Gyros and combined the yeast flakes with Feta cheese.  We liked the change and especially on potatoes.  It really does amp up the protein content to 8.32 grams, which breaks down to 16.6% of your D.V., so I kept this in mind when cooking with proteins.  I know protein and especially clean protein is good for you but I also want only so much of it.  The fiber content makes digesting easy and especially if you are attempting to lose or just maintain a healthy weight.  This product may have limited me towards the savory dishes but then again everything else is geared towards sweetness in the diet and nutrition world, that I found it welcoming to have something I could add with most dinners.  The Yeast flakes in salads was another boost of flavor I was able to enjoy and especially on avocados!

Get acquainted with the above products and with Sari Foods Company at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Google+

 

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

 

Body Merry: Hyaluronic Acid Serum #Review #BodyMerry

 

Last week, I reviewed the Retinol serum by Body Merry and this week I will be reviewing their Hyaluronic Acid. This is a combination serum that is boosted with other ingredients like:

• Vitamin C
• Green Tea
• Aloe Vera
• Jojoba Oil
• And Vitamin E

All ingredients are Natural or Organic. Free from harsh chemicals such as Parabens, Sulfates and Phthalates. Also, no fragrances or alcohol are ever used and the product is produced in the USA.

Ingredients (as listed on their site):

• The Hard Hitters: Plant Derived Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C + Wildcrafted Green Tea
• The Organic Ones: Aloe + Jojoba Oil
• Just Some of the Others: Witch Hazel + MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) + Geranium Essential Oil + Vitamin E

Price Point: $14.99 for a 1 fluid ounce bottle that comes with a dropper top. Backed by a 100% Money Back Guarantee too!

Hyaluronic Acids help boost the amount of moisture your skin cells can hold. You get a plump and smoother look on the surface, so while you are quenching the skin, why not add other nutritional ingredients to improve its health? Body Merry does just that and even if you are prone to clogged pores, blemishes, acne, blackheads, this is a non-clogging formula. My T-Zone should be called my pimple zone because I can be prone to breakouts.  I admit I sometimes just dab and pretend to moisturize these areas but always lightly. I was able to apply a thin layer of the Body Merry’s Hyaluronic Acid serum and woke up the next day without any skin issues. You will notice as the weeks go by and with continued use, the serum has lasting results. Due to its plumping nature and how well it drives moisture to the areas applied, I went for it and I applied it on my lips. I usually use whatever is left on my finger tips after applying to my face and neck area, which is usually more than enough. Chapped lips/Winter lips are now not an issue and I follow up with a nourishing balm enriched with Coconut oil. Another great product by Body Merry that is affordable, performs well and with regular use, rewards you with better looking skin. I figure I will start my 2015 looking better than years before!

Get your Body Merry fix at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• #BodyMerry

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

Forlan: Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin A, C, D, and E #Review #ForlanHyaluronicAcidSerum

Forlan offers a Hyaluronic Acid that is not your typical blend. The serum contains a healthy mixture of Vitamin A, C, D and also Vitamin E. This anti aging moisturizer comes in a nice bottle with a pump action top, so oxidation is kept at a minimum with zero light and minimal air exposure.

Hyaluronic Acid, is found in greater quantity in younger skin’s cells and is attributed to that smooth, elastic and beautiful skin. HA provides moisture to the cells, almost a drowning effect that allows the surface to hold up to 1000 times it’s water weight, so you get a nice plump that smooths out fine lines and wrinkles. See it as your skin getting it’s 8 glasses of water a day but on the surface!

Vitamin A- A retnoid that helps boost collagen and aids in resurfacing of the skin, meaning you plump the layers below and quicken the turn-over process. Your older layer is shed but you are left with smoother looking skin that appears more flawless than before. It takes time and regular use to see greater results.

Vitamin C– Please refer to this post for a comprehensive break-down of it’s benefits.

Vitamin E– An antioxidant and a very rich moisturizer. The oil tends to remain on the skin longer, thus providing longer protection. Studies have shown that Vitamin E combined with Vitamin C, may give the skin a level of “sun protection”. Vitamin E also defends against free-radicals and helps with inflammation.

Ingredients (as listed on the site):
Deionized Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Juice, Phenoxyethanol, Witch Hazel Extract, Acrylates/C 10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, MSM, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E), Sodium Hydroxide,Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C), Lavender Oil, L-Arginine, Retinyl Palmitate (vitamin A), Cholecalciferol (vitamin D).

Price Point: $19.95 for a 2.0 ounce bottle from Amazon

Results:
I applied the Forlan Hyaluronic Acid Serum for a period of 3 weeks; twice a day, both day and at night. I washed my face and this was the second step of my daily skincare routine. I followed up with make-up and on the weekends with just sunscreen. I discontinued used of all other products and this included my retinols. I will say the simplification process was appreciated because this is an all-in-one product. You can follow-up with a moisturizer but 80% of time, I felt that the serum was enough for me. It satisfied my skin’s needs by keeping it moisturized and protected. I did not experience any blemish or acne breakouts, or even clogged pores, so that also convinced me to keep using the serum as-is without adding anything else. My routine was cut in half and I found myself sort of feeling like I was forgetting to put something else on my face but by week two, I was liking this short-cut. The formula may be a short-cut in steps but not when it comes to delivering results. I had a nice glow that made me stop using my highlighter powder and a girl likes it when she can glow all on her own. My cheeks were smooth and I did encourage the resurfacing process by exfoliating twice a week. I was hesitant about the Vitamin E because the oil can be heavy at times and cause irritation but I did not experience any adverse effects. I think as the days get colder and Winter is upon us, the Vitamin is E is more welcoming than anything. I was very satisfied with the results and how well this all-in-one product performed!

Get your Forlan Advanced Skincare experience at:

• On-line 
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter 

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

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.

Body Merry: Pro-A Serum 2.5% Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid and Green Tea #Review #BodyMerry

I ran out of my OTC retinol and quite frankly, I don’t think my former brand had the retinol kick it had before. I first thought maybe I needed to move up and use a higher strength, so I buy for deep wrinkles versus fine lines. I try to use more product because maybe I’m just being too cheap! I I come to my senses and just need to drop the brand like a RoC-K because it just was not cutting it.

I’m on my last week where my retinol tube is spurting out a yellow colored and nicely oxidized solution, Body Merry then offers to send me a bottle of their product! Don’t you love it when things just come together like that?

It get’s here and I try the Pro-A Serum for 3 weeks :

• Week One- On day one, I expected to feel that tingle that in my head means it’s working. I get a slight pink color but that is mostly from me tapping on my skin (lightly). The solution is a perfect gel that has a slight tint and is easily portioned out by the dropper. Three drops covers the “problem areas” where I have 5 fine lines in total and also covers what I somehow know will be “future problem areas”. Hey, I like to eat Turkey…..not look like one. I continue use and by day #3, I’m thinking this is just gelatin-ized water Yes, my skin absorbs it, feels nice but no voodoo is happening. I continue use because I’m going to ride this pony out or maybe just rubbing my fine lines in a routine basis will just erase them (don’t I wish).

 

• Week Two- Still on the pony and I notice on day #8, my skin overall looks better. Like the type of skin you think looks nice and wish you could obtain. I look less…..well, flustered because my frown line between my brows is un-frowning (finally got the memo that me no likey it). I think it’s just a good day and continue my ride. Yee-haw!

 

• Week Three- I have consecutive “good days”, so I shine off the results and just think it was a good week now. Continue on the this horsey and I notice things like my chin has 2 mini white heads and I have to get like super close to the mirror….you know when your nose fogs it up to even see them. The acne areas are just not getting angry anymore, so the Body Merry Pro-A Serum is sort of like a happy pill for my face. I realize what you don’t want to jinx because somehow if you acknowledge it, my face will revolt and avenge this goodness. Overall I get one pimple over my eyebrow and one bug bite on the neck. The latter obviously only a fly swatter could have saved me! I don’t hate saying it but my face looks good….feels good….and I sort of am starting to like it (don’t let it go to your head).

 

Ingredients (as listed on their website):

The wildness of Retinol is tamed by Plant Derived Hyaluronic Acid, which locks in moisture to effectively minimize dryness or irritation. Because of their high antioxidant content, Green Tea and Vitamin E work beautifully together to prevent and diminish the signs of aging.

The formula does not contain any parabens, sulfates, phthalates, fragrances or alcohol. The KEY ingredients are:
The Hard Hitters: 2.5% Retinol + Plant Derived Hyaluronic Acid
The Organic Ones: Green Tea + Aloe + Jojoba Oil
Just Some of the Others: Vitamin E + Witch Hazel + Wheat Germ Oil + Wildcrafted Propolis

I can easily state that I was paying more for a product that did a whole lot less. I don’t like when that happens because I spend my time researching and when a product changes it’s formulation and you find out after the fact, well they not only slapped my pocket book but also me.

Price Point: $27.99 on Amazon with 90-Day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee on all products. Hassle free money back, with no need to return the bottle! Made in the USA and Cruelty Free too.

Body Merry’s Pro-A serum gave me everything it advertised. It minimized my fine lines to the point I don’t focus on them and just made my skin happier. My acne prone areas diminished and just got off that cycle of two great weeks followed by “you thought I was gone” pimples that just makes you wonder why you bother washing off make-up like it’s the plague when you get home. Yes, my pimples were small and just clogged pores but nonetheless, in my world they were not allowed to be there with all the care I take, the 8 glasses of water, not touching my face, and so forth. My pimples broke the rules but Body Merry’s Pro-A Serum let them know who’s the boss!

I will continue using Body Merry’s Pro-A Serum and have started using their Hyaluronic Dew Serum . I’m doing the Hyaluronic Dew Serum in the morning and at PM, the Pro-A serum because now I’m aiming super high when it comes to results. I see now what my face can really do 🙂

Get a Happier Face and visit Body Merry and their products at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• FaceBook
• Twitter
• #BodyMerry

 

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

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.

BzzAgent: Purina Beyond Natural and Grain Free Dog Food in Adventure, Tuna and Egg Recipe #Review

My dog eats like a cat!

No, not cat food but loves things that cat’s like when it comes to foods and even toys. I still don’t walk into the Pet Store where she found joy with that feather toy made for cats because to see a 55 pound dog playing with it made her the only thing people were staring at when all I did was come in for treats.

She also loves Salmon, Sword Fish and shrimps to crab so when this dog food, which was sent as part of BzzAgent campaign said Tuna and Egg…..it was made for her. She loves it and I love that she is happy and no feathers were hurt 🙂 The food is reasonably priced for being a “no grain” variety and that makes me love it more. I find she goes potty less, less gas, and just more pure energy that sometimes I miss the dog that thinks everyday is a lounge day. She plays more and that is worth it in my book, when you see results!

What is in this no-grain Dog Food:

 

The Three No-Nos that keep Purina Beyond Dog Food above the rest:

 

I believe a picture speaks for itself and this dog at 11 + years of age is not slowing down one bit!

 

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The Guaranteed Analysis, so you know what your pet is getting:

 

How Much to feed when it comes to to a no-grain food:

 

Actual Results:

I witnessed our dog getting a shiner coat that is not oily like with other feeds that have added fats that deliver shine, but leaves your poor pet so greasy that you cringe petting them.  Our dog did get a slight fishy breath after eating her meal but not so bad and it did lessen as time passes.  I noticed the energy level went up and we actually had to slow her down in these hot Summer days we have been experiencing but that usually means a dip in the pool for her.  No stomach problems and eating grass is a thing she does not engage in as often as before, so I think her meals settle better.  I recommend trying one bag for yourself and see the difference for yourself!  A version for cats is also made so the kitties did not get left out on the fun 🙂

 

Available In:

• Dry Dog Foods
• Dry & Wet Cat Foods
• Grain-Free Recipes
• Superfood Blends

 

 

Connect with Purina and see what the new Beyond feed can do for your pet:

• On-line– https://www.purina.com/products/beyond
• Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/BeyondPetFood
• Twitter– https://twitter.com/BeyondPetFood
• Coupons from Purina- https://www.purina.com/coupons

 

 

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

 

Green Mountain Creamery: Yo Yummy Yogurt Pouches #Review and Cake #Recipe

It should be no secret by now I’m a fan of yogurt. Big time. Going with my yogurt obsession, I recently received a wonderful parcel from Green Mountain Creamery. It was boxes filled with their Yo Yummy pouches, a product geared primarily towards kids. That does not mean an adult can’t indulge. We don’t have kids, and I have tried to like yogurt that comes in squeeze containers but most brands are watery, almost slimy in texture and then loaded with sugar. The last thing you taste is the fruit and I can see why some kids prefer these types of products in a frozen state. You at least can try to get past the texture problem but then again are left with a cube of frozen sugar and colors. Not Yo Yummy!

Yo Yummy, is finally a yogurt “pouch” product that can be squeezed out and still resembles what is suppose to be: delicious, creamy yogurt. Not filled with sugars and dyes, just flavorful yogurt.

Yo Yummy actually has 10% less sugar than the national leading brands and many benefits that separate this brand from others:

• Gluten-Free
• Added Vitamin A and Vitamin D
• No Artificial Colors/dyes
• No Artificial Flavors
• No Preservatives
• Good Source of Calcium
• Kosher
• Milk derived from Non-RBST treated cows
• Made in Vermont, U.S.A.
• and packed in a BPA free pouch

It’s R-E-A-L yogurt for everyone!

I looked into Green Mountain Creamery when I saw their yogurt cups at Sprout’s Market. The flavors were tempting and after I had just one cup of their Maple flavor….I was hooked!

Yo Yummy comes in 4 flavors for you to fall in love with and all are only 90 calories:

Mixed Berry– A blend of actual real berries and not just a touch of it. You taste the full berry explosion of raspberry, blueberry, and Ssrawberry. The ingredients list these as purees and you really get that when you eat Yo Yummy. It’s a texture of yogurt where you still see the fruit, so each bite (or squeeze in this case) can taste different. We enjoyed this one greatly and I liked that I was left satisfied with just one pouch!

Strawberry Banana– My Husband is not a banana eater (I know, how sad) but I squeezed this flavor until I ran out of pouches! I enjoyed it every morning over granola and when I found strawberries on sale, added banana slices to my granola…..oh my! I was in a Straw-nana heaven with this yogurt. This Yo Yummy blend is just like the others where they use real fruit purees and you taste it until you are squeezing every last drop out. I got good with my technique by day 3, in not letting one squeeze go to waste 🙂

Strawberry– All I can say it tastes like you took fresh strawberries and just pureed them. That is the other thing, the freshness in their flavors have no match to what is on the market today. Yo Yummy uses premium products and fruit at their peak of freshness and taste because it transfers so well to your taste buds. Just like if you bit into a strawberry and yogurt parfait! Yes, you must make this one into a parfait. My Husband and I voted this flavor #1 and I admit I did not dive heavily into it because I wanted to leave it for him to enjoy. He enjoyed a pouch every morning until it was gone.

Cotton Candy– I was skeptical because I like (not love) cotton candy but never had the flavor in yogurt form. Being that Green Mountain Creamery is wholesome and fills their yogurt cups and pouches with real fruit…..I wondered if there was a cotton candy bush I had no idea existed. I did not question the cotton candy’s bush existence after I had one taste of this pouch. Think of a sweet cream and almost a touch of strawberry when eating this flavor. There is a hint of sweetness but it does not overwhelm your palette so I decided to take this flavor a notch up by making a cake!  Yo Yummy will also be coming out soon with grape and sour cherry flavors. I can’t wait!

Yup, let’s have fun and with this Spring weather, a happy cake can be made with the cotton candy flavor or any of the Yo Yummy pouches. Just 25-30 minutes in the oven and each pouch fills one ramekin. Only three ingredients needed, so let’s get started-

Yo Yummy Cotton Candy Speckled Cake (think confetti)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Get one small (individual size) ramekin (greased- you can use cooking spray or even Coconut Oil)

Ingredients:

• 1 Yo Yummy Cotton Candy pouch
• 1/8 of a cup of all-purpose flour (you can use Rice Flour if you wish)
• 1 teaspoon of confetti sprinkles
• 1 strawberry (if desired) and a dash of powder sugar for decor purposes 🙂

Take the Yo Yummy pouch and empty it into a bowl

Add the flour and if you wish a fluffier cake, add a dash of baking soda (1/4 teaspoon)

Mix

Once incorporated, add the confetti sprinkles and mix quickly and then fill the greased ramekin.

Put ramekin in oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check cake if done with toothpick and it will be dense like a pudding cake but a toothpick should come out clean when checking.

Allow cake to cool (if you have patience) and you can personalize these as you wish. You can eat it as is or add a scoop of ice cream. I found fresh strawberries on sale an added one on top with a dusting of powder sugar. It’s a happy cake and each person can make their own to suit their taste buds. Try it with the other Yo Yummy flavors and even your own mix-ins. Enjoy!

Visit Green Mountain Creamery and Yo Yummy at:

• Green Mountain Creamery- http://greenmountaincreamery.com/
• Yo Yummy- http://yoyummykids.com/
• On FaceBook- https://www.facebook.com/GreenMountainCreamery
• On Twitter- https://twitter.com/grnmtncreamery
• Via Pinterest- http://www.pinterest.com/gmcyoyummy/

Also, save with these generous coupons:

• Easy to print savings- http://yoyummykids.com/coupons-and-offers

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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