** I received free samples in return for my honest review and promoting a giveaway. All opinions are my own. **
Tea Tree Oil has been know to be very beneficial. It well-known for its powerful antiseptic properties and ability to treat wounds. And for over seven decades, it’s been documented in numerous medical studies to kill many strains of bacteria, viruses and fungi. (Source)
It is becoming popular to help things like acne, clean your scalp, a household cleaner, and more. Era Organics has created a face cleaner and cream that is balanced, healthier and can clear your skin without harsh chemicals.
Introducing Era Organics Tea Tree Oil Cleanser made for oily, acne prone skin with 7 natural acne-fighting ingredients in one bottle.
Their pH balanced face and body wash is made for men, women and teens looking to fight pimples, back acne and oily skin with natural and organic ingredients proven to cleanse pores, reduce blemishes, soothe inflammation and reduce redness.
How It Works:
Wash away excess oils, dirt, build-up and dead skin cells while nourishing the skin.
Naturally antimicrobial to kill acne-cause bacteria.
Moisturize to the base of the skin while boosting its ability to heal and recover.
Soothe inflammation and redness while promoting healthy blood flow
Open clogged pores and shed dead skin cells to fight blackheads
Soften your skin while improving skin texture for balanced, more supple complexion.
Get Clearer, Healthier Skin You Can Be Proud Of or Your Money Back!
As a family owned company, results are everything. They take customer service and satisfaction quite seriously. That’s why they have a “Love Your Skin or Your Money Back” 60-day money back guarantee. Buy now with confidence and see what nature can do for you.
Whether You’re Fighting Acne, Oily Skin, Rosacea or Chronic Dry Skin - get healthier, smoother skin thanks to one of the most robust natural facial cleanser formulas on the market. Don’t Just Wash Your Face & Body – cleanse, soothe and nourish your skin thanks to powerful ingredients your skin will love, including: tea tree oil, goldenseal, burdock root, aloe vera, pomegranate seed oil, st. john's wort and dandelion root.
It is safe and effective. The sulfate free cleanser is made with natural and organic, food-grade ingredients. Wash with confidence without chemicals, toxins, paraben free, perfume free and SLS free. Cruelty free, made in the USA.
Fight pimples, blackheads and breakouts in minutes a day. ERA Organics Tea Tree Oil Face Cleanser moisturizing facial cleanser is made for all skin types to help balance oils, reduce redness, nourish to the base of your skin and help fight acne causing bacteria.
Extra Strength Nourishing Formula- Most acne treatments are too harsh on the skin, leading to irritation, redness or dry skin. This facial cream is formulated to soothe, nourish and hydrate oily skin, dry skin or combination skin. Perfect for men, women and teens!
It has ingredients your skin will love. They combine powerful natural and organic ingredients to nourish and balance the skin, including: St. John’s Wort, Pomegranate Seed Oil, Salicylic, Zinc, Burdock Root, Dandelion Root & Goldenseal.
The natural face moisturizer is non comedogenic, cruelty free and vegan friendly. To make sure people with sensitive skin can use it, it’s also paraben free, non-toxic, no hormone disruptors and gentle – yet effective.
You can purchase many different products from ERA Organics on Amazon. The more you buy, the more you save:
Save 20% on Qualifying items offered by Era Organics when you purchase 2 or more. Enter code ERA20VAL at checkout. Here's how (restrictions apply)
Save 25% on Qualifying items offered by Era Organics when you purchase 3 or more. Enter code ERA25VAL at checkout. Here's how (restrictions apply)
Now for the giveaway! There will be 2 winners - each winner will receive the ERA Organics Tea Tree Oil Face Cleanser and Face Cream. This giveaway is open to residents of the US only. It will end on 3/1/18 at 1159pm EST. Good Luck!
Enter below:
** This is a sponsored post and I did receive money for this post. However, all opinions are my own. I will only post sponsored posts for products, people, brands, companies, who I find trustworthy and or use myself. **
There are several reasons why you may be interested with Divatress. One of the first reasons will probably be the variety and unique styles they offer for virtually everybody! You are sure to fall in love with one or a few or more! Wigs have certainly come a long way and in a very good way.)
Most likely after seeing the selection of wigs, hair extensions, and hair pieces, you'll notice the prices. I have always expected that wigs would cost a fortune. But, after checking out almost every page on their website, if I were to purchase one for every day of the week, I would still be under $200! I wasn't expecting this and I definitely wasn't expecting to find every shade of the rainbow either!
I love bright, bold, fun colors. I've always been a sucker for the brightest blues, pinks, purples, even orange hair colors. I have med to dark brown hair so, you can imagine what some of those shades fade into. Not to mention the fact that it is insanely hard to get my brown hair to take the color as bright as I would like it too. I have now found blues and purples in shades I could never buy in a box or get at the salon for my hair! (I'm seriously contemplating grabbing a few in the shorter hair styles for myself.)
These prices are very hard to beat. Especially when you consider the possibilities! Halloween costumes, girls night out, going out with your significant other, concerts, just wanting to change your look for a day. This would be much healthier than coloring and bleaching your hair to achieve the same results. (Well, I know for me and my hair, these colors would be even more fun!) It is very hard to find hair color that stays in and doesn't fade a few days later.
If you need a human hair weave, they have those too! You can also find braids, ponytails, (Even more fun for short hair like me!) You can also find a broad selection of beauty products and a nail color to match your new wig!
** I received free samples of these products via Crowdtap, in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. **
It isn't everyday that I receive a package in the mail with beauty products...... Ok, well, that's a lie. I guess it sort of happens at least a few days a week and it's sort of an addiction I have and have had for gosh, I don't know? 25 years? I feel bad because I think my 9 year old daughter is going to have the same addiction. She is even happier than I am some days, when we open the mail and find beauty products, beauty samples, make up, nail polish, hair products, it's just ridiculous how these little bottles of scented body lotion, face masks, nail polish, lip gloss, and eye cream, make us shriek in delight! (Well, maybe not her so much with the eye cream.,. but one day...)
This post was sponsored by L’Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare as part of a sampling activation for Crowdtap. I received complimentary products to facilitate my review. I can't even think of enough adjectives to describe these fab products I recently tried!
If you ever suffer from dry, frizzy hair, straight or curly, well, this line and more importantly, this product, deserves the next few minutes of your attention.
L'Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare created some of the most intriguing products out there right now! I can't get enough of their Extraordinary Oil line!!
** I received free products thanks to Influenster and TRESemme in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. **
One thing I can not stand is having my stick straight hair that has to be sliced up with a straight razor a couple of times a month, just so I can have messy, spiky hair in the back for my favorite, over a decade, easy peasy hairstyle that I absolutely LOVE! I visit my friend's salon once per month, sometimes twice, and I often have to stand on the porch, scraping away at my hair with a straight razor just to get a little, itsy, bitsy bit of texture. Naturally, conditioner is usually out of the question because this has always only made my hair even worse. It totally weighs it down. I will use conditioner on days when I plan on staying in my pajamas and staying in the house. But, my hair is also dry and I kind of need more conditioning. So, I was super ecstatic to see the very clever and new idea from TRESemme, Reverse Your Routine!
I have used TRESemme products in the past but I was never a diehard TRESemme user. I really like their products and we do purchase them sometimes but, I haven't ever been totally brand loyal to any specific hair care brand. I have my favorites but there are a few favorites and I am just not ready to commit myself to just 1. So, anyway, I received my Voxbox in the mail and my 9 year old daughter and I tried this new invention the same evening.
I have to say that the heat and humidity here in East Central PA has been unbearable! I am anxiously counting down the days until hockey season, Halloween, and lots and lots of snow. When the humidity is this bad, my hair just gets worse and even more flat and even more annoying. I feel like shaving it all off really. I want to get a better take on these products since I feel that the odds are stacked against them at the moment. At least with my hair. I will say that they work very well for my daughter's extremely long hair and her knots haven't been as bad since using the TRESemme Pre Wash Conditioner and the Volume Shampoo.
The scent seems a bit to "perfumy" for me, but, that's just me. I prefer a clean, fresh scent or a fruity scent. But, the scent is really long lasting and this seems to be so hard to achieve with other brands. My 9 year old likes the scent because she can smell her hair and it's still there, all day. Plus, she says it smells, "pretty". (She is the princess type so, she would know!)
For volume, I would say that yes, it did seem to add quite a bit of volume to her hair. Mine, not so much. But again, this is something I must revisit in the near future. I would also like to try more TRESemme products to see how they work for our hair.
I still think this is the perfect hashtag for this brand and I love that they took something so simple, something that somebody should have thought of by now, and owned it. It reminds me of when we have breakfast for dinner, or having dessert before dinner. (Yes, I've done it and you should too!) The whole concept opens up a whole new world. Just imagine how liberating it would be to reverse everything! (Probably make you feel a little like Spongebob Squarepants!) and that my friend, is a very, very, very good thing!
** I received samples of Garnier Clearly Brighter thanks to Crowdtap and Garnier in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. **
I have been on a rampage lately with beauty products, mainly, Garnier products. I used to only use their hair care products because I really, really, really love the scents and because, they also work well. I often thought about trying their skin care products and I did ave a few samples here and there but I never really paid other attention to their skin care line. (I do wish I would have!!) I am a major beauty product addict and I am constantly trying new products and switching back and forth. Sometimes, I switch for good. I usually always finish whatever treasure I found in a beauty subscription box, or something I bought from the store, or received for a review. But, I don't always go back and buy again, unless it's something that totally WOWED me. (Is that a word?)
I started getting to know Garnier a bit better, thanks to Crowdtap. and I am SO happy I did! My only regret is that I have been missing out on Garnier products all of these years. I can't get enough of their Skin Active line and they just keep popping up with more fabulous products to add to my already overfilled bathroom cabinet and drawers. I am super psyched to try their Miracle Anti Fatigue Sleeping Cream, Eye Gel Cream, and Wake Up Hydra Gel Moisturizer too. (I am crossing my fingers for that mission in the near future.)
Not so long ago, I was fortunate to be able to try Clearly Brighter Brightening and Smoothing Daily Moisturizer and I have been using it every morning, since. Just a couple of weeks ago, I was introduced to Clearly Brighter Oil Free and I am so thrilled that the "Oil Free" part, is actually, Oil Free. I will be using this for the warmer months and I can do away with extra sunscreen since both formulas are SPF15. After looking over their website, I am going to need a loan to grab all of the products I am hoping to try! I will have to add one each month until I have a chance to try them all.
Clearly Brighter Brightening and Smoothing Daily Moisturizer acts like a primer for me and while i don't have a serious problem with oily skin, I do get the normal combination oily mess sometimes and I have yet to find a true to their word, oil free product. So far, it's working out well with this baby! I don't even have to use make up or powder before running out for errands or on lazy weekend days. I do sometimes reapply through the day but it hasn't just been a pleasantly scented, primer, brightening, smoothing, SPF15, BFF but also, OMG! I am getting rid of some dark spots, discolorations, and dullness!
I don't know how I can ever go back to any other hair color after trying Garnier Olia and Color Sensation. (Well, I do like bold, bright colors sometimes too. So, when I want a bolder color, I may have to go back to some old favorites.) But, Garnier does offer some super rad shades like, garnet! I am never really 100% exclusive to any one brand in some things. Shampoo, skin care, make up, conditioner, hair color, but, I have favorites and brands I will never stray from and some that I switch from time to time. So far, Clearly Brighter has replaced a couple of products and the same with Garnier hair color. I use a couple of different brands for hair care, Garnier has been one for a long, long time. Now, with the new Whole Blends line, I would say that we are more than 50% Garnier when it comes to hair care.
I will be updating as I try new Garnier products and little by little, I am afraid that my enormous stash of skin care products might be condensed a bit because Garnier Skin Active and hopefully the Miracle Anti Fatigue, will be replacing some products very soon. I just have to find a way to try them all! I don't think I will ever break up with Garnier because, well, everything just smells so lovely and I really see this brand as one of the top brands on the market right now. I also think they are pretty original and have the latest and best creations. (Just like me!) So, it's kind of a whirlwind romance we have here ;) I can hear my husband now... "What is this?? A Garnier factory? Oh my God!" and I will just laugh and laugh and try every single invention these geniuses come up with!
** I received this product for free in return for my honest review, thanks to Crowdtap and Amope. All opinions and statements are my own. **
I have a few obscure disorders and diseases that affect my legs, feet and ankles. This all started from having broken and sprained feet and ankles, years ago, and bartending for over 20 years and finally, failed reconstructive foot and ankle surgeries that caused severe nerve damage, drop foot, RSD/CRPS, and some other nonsense that won't heal. Due to this, I am in severe pain almost 24/7 and my skin is very sensitive and extremely dry. The only time I can remember having silky soft skin on my feet was longer then 10 years ago. I have tried several creams, files, scrubs, nothing helps and this is with daily work. I can't use the metal files and some files due to the pain they cause. I was a little worried about Amope because it looked more rough then it actually is and I just can't believe how easy this is to use or how comfortable it is!!
Amope claims this will help instantly and it really does. I am surprised to be honest and I just can't imagine not having this on hand. I am very pleased with this product, it has given me the confidence to actually not wear socks 24 hours a day!! Oh, speaking of this, I am not able to wear shoes due to my conditions so, I am always wearing slippers. As long as they don't touch the tops of my feet. I have hyper active, hyper sensitive nerves and even just the wind blowing on my legs, is painful. I also live in Pennsylvania where we actually have winter weather and of course, rain. So, being out when it's wet, in slippers, just adds to my problems. I can say that Amope has changed this aspect of my life and I just can't thank them enough.
I do use this every other day, at least and I usually just use it dry. It seems to work better dry then wet. I think the handle is perfect and it charges fairly quickly. This does have 2 speeds, which is great and it is super easy to operate. (Another plus!) I also think the price for a 2 pack of replacement heads is reasonable.
Of course, it is quite messy, which is something I find with most products like this and it is expected. I mean, you are basically sanding off dry skin and it will leave a mess which is not at fault of the product itself. It's just one of those annoying things that happens. The fact that I am not embarrassed by my heels, means much more to me then my own icky, dead skin flying around.
The only other con I can think of is the packaging. I really, really, really wish that nothing was put in these annoying plastic boxes that are such a pain to open and I know there have got to be other ways to box this up and make it look pretty at the store. (Whoever invented this crazy packaging that brands seem to think is the best choice, needs to find a new line of work!)
Other then that, I love everything about this product and I am ecstatic that I was able to try it! I haven't been bothering with new files for a while, due to so many bad investments. Oh, I also should mention that this electronic file has a safety feature that will automatically shut the file off if you are pressing to hard. I understand some people have a problem with this feature but for somebody like me, with chronic pain and other health issues, it is superb! Ok, so, I don't mean to gross anybody out but I have to include a few pictures so you can see the results!! (Don't mind my crazy dry skin. Especially since it is no longer there!! WOOHOO!)
So, the top left is my before picture. The one at the top right is an instant picture because it seriously smooths the driest of skin, in an instant, just as they say! The next 2 pictures are from a few days later and as long as I keep up with at least every couple of days, I am golden! What do you think of Amope products? Have you tried their new Pedi Perfect Wet Dry Electronic Foot File? What do you think?
** I received a free sample from ROC via Crowdtap, in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. **
I have so many skin care products and so much make up, it is literally starting to take up way to much space in my soon to be, new home office. I schedule products to try so I don't get things mixed up and also cause any sort of dilemma between 2 separate brands or types of products and then I have 2 fairly large bins. One bin is for, things I don't want and when I acquire more of it, I will give it away. The other, is my stock up of products I love and can not live without! (Trust me, there are a lot of these lol!)
This is the bottom shelf of my little cabinet in the bathroom where I put my most used and most fabulous products that I absolutely just have to have! This is different then the bins and although there is a cute, little cabinet directly above this shelf, yes, it's completely filled with so many things. Mostly, Lowen's Skin Care, samples and full size products I found on Revescent and a bunch of mismatched products that have proven to work, and work very well. I think of the shelf part of this cabinet as a "Star of the Week" remember having that when you were a kid in school? Or maybe your children have this fun week when everything is about them and they get to bring in their most prized possessions.
When a beauty product gets put on this shelf, I will relentlessly read everything there is to read during their special time when they get to pop out from behind the doors above and hang out with my all time favorite, Paris Hilton perfume. (Yes, I am a fan and I still have her books on my, "want list" and yes, I will defend her to the bitter end!) Really though, I use Paris Hilton's perfumes regularly and this one is used so often it is just always there for quick and easy access.
I don't know if it's just me but the word, "retinol" tends to remind me of a chemical peel that burns and peels and turns my face bright red for several days. I admit, I was a worried and didn't use my RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream, right away. I started reading as much as I could and found a lot of reviews on both sides. For the most part, I found excellent reviews along with some do's and don't's. I ended up keeping some notes in my notebook just so I didn't forget anything. The most important tip to me was the fact that retinol will increase sensitivity to the sun. I already slather sunscreen on my face, neck, and hands, year round. How could I apply even more?? (So far, I didn't increase my sunscreen usage. I guess maybe I already use enough to protect my skin!)
Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A. It is the #1 most recommended cosmetic age fighting ingredient, by dermatologists. Retinol works to unclog pores, boost collagen to reduce fine lines and speed cell turnover to even out discolorations and smooth your skin.
** Sunburn Alert **
RoC Deep Wrinkle Cream contains an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn.
More text on the product itself:
You may experience mild tingling or redness during use. This is normal and should be temporary until your skin adjusts.
Ok, that doesn't seem as scary as I thought. After another day of checking websites and reviews posted on other websites. Not just on the RoC website. I found similar information and then I just jumped right in!
I tried RoC's Deep Wrinkle Night Cream for a few weeks and yes, I am content and excited for the near future with this product. I can not honestly say that I noticed a HUGE difference in wrinkles, but, again, it has only been a couple of weeks. What have I noticed so far?
I noticed that yes, yes, indeed I will experience tingling and redness, but only for a couple of days, I had not 1 reaction that I would consider moderate or severe and the tingling doesn't last long at all. Just a few minutes for me. I also realized that while I may not have noticed a bunch of wrinkles disappearing overnight, I did notice a slight improvement during the first week with my skin tone. It does appear to be more even and smoother but again, it is taking time, but I did expect that!
I paired this wrinkle cream up with RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum. This product notes that after 12 weeks of use, deep wrinkles are visibly reduced. After 4 weeks, skin is more radiant, fine lines are smoothed and skin firmness is improved. 8 weeks, you should see: crow's feet are visibly reduced, and discoloration is diminished.
I will come back to update after my 4, 8, or 12 week mark and let you know of my progress! I should be documenting this with photos so maybe, I should take a break, come back and document everything from the beginning!
But, I can tell you that Retinol is NOT scary. Maybe if you have super sensitive skin even though, I do have sensitive skin but it isn't as bad as some I am sure. I like the way my skin feels after using these products. Not to tight, not itchy, not greasy, but just right. Again, I haven't been using RoC long enough to say, "OMG YES! My wrinkles disappeared! Woohoo!!" But, I do know that I am keeping these products in my arsenal.
Do you use Retinol? I would love to read your comments, suggestions, tips, experiences!
One thing I learned was that it's best to add just one Retinol product during the day, along with a product with SPF protection. Choose a serum or night cream with Retinol for nighttime when your skin is in repair mode.
This was the 2nd product I received for my 2nd review opportunity with, InstaNatural!
Age Defying Retinol Serum.
The first thing I noticed about this product was the amazingly pretty scent! I would actually wear this as perfume if I could. But, since it is a serum, I get to smell it all day long! (Yes, it actually lasts and is definitely not overpowering. It is just a very light and lovely scent.)
Ok, so, I was a bit worried about using 2 retinol products and I was wondering if they could be used together so, I decided that since retinol itself will make your skin more sensitive to the sun, I decided I would use 1 or the other. That way, I don't have to worry as much and I am still benefiting from both the retinol moisturizer and the serum. I started using the serum at night, however, I like to switch it up a bit and use it during the day. (I just can't get over how good this stuff smells!) Although, using the serum at night is also pleasant because it is a wonderful scent to fall asleep too!
This serum is so dreamy! It is a bit different than other serums I have tried in the past. Mainly because of, again, the scent. But also, the price on the Age Defying Retinol Serum is only $23.75 for an ounce! (It should cost just a little more if you ask me. ) But, like a lot of InstaNatural prices, this one is very reasonable and easy to fit any budget. It's nice because this product beats most department store brands and other similar lines and it is literally, a fraction of the price. Plus, you are getting a top quality, expensive product. (At least in my book!)
The key ingredients will probably make you want to add, Age Defying Retinol Serum, to your list of, "Things I want to try asap!" items ;)
2.5 Retinol
20% Vitamin C
10% Hyaluronic Acid
Fruit & Plant Acids
and wait, that isn't all!
There is also: pink grapefruit essential oil, dandelion, horsetail, organic jojoba oil, Willowbark and wildcrafted green tea!
I just love being able to get such super ingredients in a product!
I make some of my own beauty products but I wouldn't know where to find the ingredients in this serum to go and buy to make on my own, (I'll just stick with InstaNatural on this serum!)
Did I notice a difference? Not a whole lot just yet, but again, it is has only been a week that I have been using it and I can say that together with the Retinol Moisturizer, I definitely have noticed a change in skin tone and my skin feels much softer and plumper. I am very fair skinned and I have see through skin, lol! I often joke that I look like a ghost and I always have bruises somewhere but I never know where exactly they came from. That being said, I am more prone to discolorations and fine lines. But, I don't have a lot of either, (yet.) But, what I do have, I wouldn't mind getting rid of completely, or at least next best, help to redefine my skin and make it more firm, even and plumper.
One of my favorite ingredients that is found in Age Defying Retinol Serum is vitamin C. Vitamin C actually helps reverse the signs of aging which is something I am grateful for and I actually have noticed results with in the past.
Have you tried this luxurious product? What did you think?
One of my most favorite bonuses about this company is the personalized customer service you receive when you do make a purchase. (Even if it's on Amazon!) They will email you and explain how to use your new product, give some tips, suggestions and even offer to answer any questions you may have! (I will always go for a brand who actively tries to establish a relationship with their customers!)
** I received a free sample from InstaNatural, through, Brandbacker in
return for my honest review. All statements and opinions are my own.
Receiving a free sample or product does not change my opinions or views.
**
- See more at:
http://www.busymommylist.com/2014/12/instanatural-retinol-moisturizer-with.html#sthash.sZW1Ug7V.dpuf
** I received a free sample from InstaNatural, through, Brandbacker, in return for my honest review. All statements and opinions are my own. Receiving a free sample or product does not change my opinions or views. **
** I received a free sample from InstaNatural, through, Brandbacker in
return for my honest review. All statements and opinions are my own.
Receiving a free sample or product does not change my opinions or views.
**
- See more at:
http://www.busymommylist.com/2014/12/instanatural-retinol-moisturizer-with.html#sthash.sZW1Ug7V.dpuf
I considered myself quite the lucky girl to be accepted for yet another, InstaNatural review opportunity, thanks to, Brandbacker.
I applied for a few of them and was accepted for each one, so far. (Fingers crossed!)
You may have read my previous review of a couple very cool InstaNatural products. (Youth Express Eye Serum....) I am still using those products, by the way and I have actually noticed even more positive results with them so, I will be sticking with them for the time being!
I received a package from InstaNatural with a couple new goodies and I rushed right to the bathroom to wash my face and try them out!
The Retinol Moisturizer with Vitamin C is to be used twice per day, Once during the day and once at night. Since it is a retinol product, they do suggesy using a sunscreen afterwards, because retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you already have sensitive skin, you should probably use this product only once, at night.
This formula was very easy to use, (InstaNatural has the coolest, handiest pump contraption and it works perfectly!) The moisturizer goes on very smoothly and doesn't have an overpowering scent and doesn't feel sticky or make my skin burn like I had first thought it might. (because of the retinol.)
A small amount goes a long way. Which is another reason I love these products so much. You truly only need a tiny dab and for the extremely reasonable price, this 3.4oz bottle could last you quite a long time. ($23.75 a bottle!)
I am actually shocked at the prices of their products, since most lines I have used that have similar products, seem to cost a bit more and also have much smaller sizes.
I receive lots of samples and products, between monthly subscriptions to review opportunities and free gifts with purchase items and most other retinol products I have tried in the past, tend to leave a sticky, sometimes tight feeling on my skin. Even though they say it can be worn under make up, I usually end up waiting a bit and washing it back off or just using it at night because I don't like the feeling it leaves! (Especially under make up!)
I was surprised because this product did not have that same feeling. As long as you apply with a circular and upward motion, it actually feels quite nice! (There is a slight tingly feeling and a feeling that it will almost start feeling tight but that goes away fairly quick.)
What is retinol?
Retinol is a very powerful antioxidant derived from vitamin A. It is the safest, strongest and most trusted ingredients for anti aging skincare products. Retinol, converts into, Retinoic Acid, once it is absorbed into your skin. Retinoic Acid starts working immediately, to help restore your skin and helps to reduce the signs of aging and sun damage. Sounds like a miracle, eh?
I am 40 and a grandmother of 2, with 3 small children still at home, lol! So, I will try anything and everything at least once! But, if it has a secret power like this stuff does, I will use it and slather it on my skin as often as recommended!
Oh, by the way, that slight tingling and tightness I mentioned above? It was gone within the short time it took to read the last paragraph!
My makeup glides on perfectly with this underneath and although I have not been using it for to long yet, (it's only been a week.), my skin does feel tighter and more refined.
Oh! That's right! I almost forgot to share the special, key ingredients with you!
I was thrilled enough with the ingredients in the last batch of InstaNatural products I tried and the same thing goes for the Retinol Moisturizer with Vitamin C.
The key ingredients are:
2.5% Retinol Vitamin C Hyaluronic Acid Jojoba Oil Shea Butter Green Tea
What do you think?
Have you tried this product out yet?
If not and if you haven't tried any InstaNatural products, head over to their site and sign up to become a club member! You will be treated like a superstar and receive a discount! (Hurry though, because it is only offered to a limited amount of people!)
** I received a free sample from InstaNatural, through, Brandbacker in return for my honest review. All statements and opinions are my own. Receiving a free sample or product does not change my opinions or views. **
I'm a sucker for beauty products, most of my friends and long time readers already know this. I could fill a store with what I have in stock and I just keep searching, trying and sampling new products all the time.
I always keep the ones I love the most and sometimes I have a few of each product type and have to swap them out from time to time! (Just because I could never part with them and something else seems to always come around!)
I have always been this way, addicted to beauty products, although, since I became a grandma, I started to really start with night creams, serums, eye serums, anything I could find that fit my criteria.
I almost forgot to mention my specific criteria:
1) The product has to work. (Of course, I mean, who wouldn't want that as their rule?) It doesn't have to be an instant gratification, but somewhere between the lines of a few days to at least a couple weeks to show some sort of improvement would be nice!
2) The product has got to be as natural, organic and as non toxic as it can be, Now, I do let this slide sometimes for old favorites and some new favorites, I must admit. However, those have to be next to minimal and they also probably won't fit my #1 slot or even my #2 slot. Meaning, they will get traded much less through my trading cycle and they may not make it into the bathroom drawer, cabinet or closet.
3) It has to be well worth it's price. This isn't to much to ask for, is it? I mean, after all, who wants to pay 3 times the price for an ounce of something? Well, maybe that would be ok but that must be absolute instant improvements in something, like, "Completely vanishes fine lines within the blink of an eye!" If that were the case, I would be first in line.
That's it! That doesn't seem so bad!
Sure, samples are nice to try first but not totally necessary. I don't mind buying a product to try it out. But, if I find a sample or trial size in one of my beauty subscription boxes, I will always pick those products first before any others that I didn't receive a sample of.
Naturally, I was delighted when I received an email about a brand called, InstaNatural. I recently signed up with, Brandbacker, which is a really cool place for social media junkies and bloggers to go to find opportunities with brands!
InstaNatural had a few products available and I applied for all of them because they all just sounded much to tempting!
I set my emails on alert and being the already hyperactive person that I am, I started checking out their social networks, website, other products, Amazon listings and other reviews and crossed my fingers with hopes to get approved.
Sure enough, I did, (Yay me!) So, I said, "Thank you so much! I am thrilled to have this opportunity to work with you!"
See, that's one neat thing about websites like Brandbacker. I can apply for what I want to try and that makes the whole review process go much smoother!
The brand rep was very gracious through all communication and after a few days, I was given the go ahead that my samples were on the way. OOOOPS! Did I say samples? I meant to say, FULL SIZE PRODUCTS! Yep, that is how rad this whole transaction was.
Shortly after receiving word that my InstaNatural Eye Gel and Eye Serum were on their way to their new, loving home, I received 2 emails from InstaNatural. At first, I just assumed they were just more confirmations.... but no! They were such sweet emails, informing me all about my new products and how to use them. (This was a first. I haven't ever received any thank you, by the way, here is who we are, here is what you are receiving and here is how you use it, emails before.) Yes, that was a big hit in my book! (The best part of these emails of tips and hints and just pure class, was the part that said that if I had ANY issues at all with my products to just reply to the email and they would personally get back to me within 24 hours!) How is that for royal service? I have yet to be treated like this by any brand or business, even the ones I do regular business with!
While I waited for my package to arrive, I went back on their website, read some of their tweets, tweeted them and tried to learn more about this fabulous company who just took the time to personally acknowledge me and introduce themselves.
Here are just some of what really stuck out to me:
On their "About" page, they discuss how they were formed, what their mission is and how they came to be. They use premium organic and natural ingredients and they do NOT use harmful alcohols, parabens or sulfates.
At the very bottom of the page, they state their mission from the founder. "..... Our mission is to treat you as if you're our only customer!" Well, so far, that is how I felt and that is awesome!
Insta Natural doesn't just do eye gels and serums, they have products for every single nook and cranny.
A few online shoppers dreams come true... free shipping on all standard orders! 100% Lifetime Satisfaction Money Back Guarantee!
There is also a club where you can get an instant 15% off everything coupon delivered to your inbox, exclusive sales and access to the VIP club.
(It is limited to the first 500 people and I signed up so, hurry and sign up!)
The day came, (it was super fast, like 2 days!) and my package arrived! My mail comes pretty early in the morning so I was able to rip these babies right out and use them right away!
I double checked my emails again and made sure to follow their suggestions and I started with the Youth Express Eye Gel.
Here are the key ingredients in Youth Express Eye Gel :
Hyaluronic Acid
Plant Stem Cells
Amino Acid Complex
Peptide Complex
Matrixyl 3000
This is a nice size, by the way. 1,7 oz and comes in a very handy pump. (The pump works great. Very strong and well put together.) I don't see this pump or bottle busting on me, even if it slips and smacks against the wall or hits a porcelain sink!
I don't even know where to begin with how amazing this product is!
First, it is a lovely gel, it was a bit chilly, I guess due to the ride it took on the way to my house in Pennsylvania, where it is bitter cold! But, I think it works lovely this way! I would rather it was chilled. It has kept it's "coolness" since it's been here, so, I think it is to be this way, (I will put in the fridge if necessary during the warmer months.)
It feels wonderful and is easy to apply. No sticky feeling, (which I expected since I have had that with other eye gels). It was just perfect. Very light, refreshing and smooth. It has a very light, pleasing scent and a neat, tingling feeling that actually made me feel like it was working already! You can also use this for your entire face, which I have since and OMG, it is just super! I think I would bathe in this stuff and feel like I'm 20 again!
You can use this morning and night and the directions say to dab gently to your eye area, forehead and cheek area. This product helps with with dark circles, wrinkles, puffiness and sagging skin. This blend of
powerful ingredients increases elasticity and enhances the tone of your
skin to provide a firm, plump appearance. Have I noticed a difference? Well, I have had it for a week and it does say to give it 8 weeks, (which I will! Probably another 8 years and then another and another!) But, truthfully, I have noticed a difference in softness. Now, I don't know for sure if that is just me but that's all that matters, right? I can say that I have high hopes for this product long term and I believe, without a doubt, that they will deliver. (InstaNatural Youth Express Eye Gel is in my bathroom cabinet, meaning, TOP priority!)
Next up by InstaNatural, I tried Youth Express Eye Serum.
Here are the key ingredients in this little bottle of gold:
Vitamin C
Plant Stem Cells
Astaxanthin
Kojic Acid
Passionflower
Caffeine
Hyaluronic Acid
Ok, I thought they outdid themselves with the Youth Express Eye Gel and then there was this pleasantly scented, pretty orange, non sticky, gorgeous feeling, heaven scent serum!
It smells so beautiful, I would use this for perfume but I wouldn't want to waste it!! One thing I've noticed over the years is, it is very hard to find any serums for your eyes or face, that aren't sticky and don't have either no smell at all or a strange, bland, kind of old kind of smell. I don't know why but I kind of like things that have at least a tiny bit of scent. (I'm guessing it's the passionflower.)
Directions for this serious goodness:
Apply a small amount of serum to your fingertips and gently press the
serum under each eye from the inner corner to outer corner. Use rolling
motions of your fingers to press the serum into your skin. Allow to dry.
Can be used daily (morning & night) and under makeup. Follow with a
moisturizer.
InstaNatural Youth Express Eye Serum, comes in a 1 oz bottle with a dropper, again, just like the pump, this is one of the best serum droppers and bottles I ever came across. Maybe I am a bit dorky for judging bottles, tubes, tins, jars but I like the kind that are made to last. Not the flimsy things that end up breaking, only to waste product or make me go out and turn into Macgyver and find some crazy way to use toothpicks, cotton swabs and safety pins to scoop out some overpriced serum that they put in a cheaply made bottle! No, this is just really a phenomenal product all around.
It glides on nice, feels nice and like the gel, you can feel it working.
Have I noticed a difference? Well, again, it has been a week but I have confidence and this product is also in my bathroom cabinet. (#1)
Youth Express Eye Serum will deliver exceptional results to the under eye area, resulting in a decreased
appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles and puffiness.
What else is nice, is the price. Now, I didn't pay for these since I am reviewing these 2 fine products. But, I would and will be buying again.
The Youth Express Eye Serum is only $23.97 for 1 oz.
The Youth Express Eye Gel is $19.97 for 1.7 oz.
I have paid much more than that for eye serums and gels before and I assure you, I have not received the personal treatment from any other brand nor have I found an unsticky, "unicky", well made bottle, pump, dropper and pretty scented eye product like this before.
Would I recommend these products to you? Yes!
I would love to hear from you! Have you ever tried, InstaNatural products before? these are my first and definitely won't be the last! I am anxious to try more of their products!
** I received samples of these products from InstaNatural through Brandbacker in return for my honest review. All words, thoughts and my review are all my own and my own opinion. **
** SCAVENGER HUNT WORD **
The word for your entry in this week's scavenger hunt is:
adorable
I am sure most of you know I enjoy blabbing about everything I eat, bake, cook, wear, try, buy, sample, clean with, listen to, watch, drive, I mean, practically everything I do offline is going to be discussed online, somewhere. I am also always very anxious to tell brands what I think and share my thoughts, hopes, dreams and ideas with them to let them know they are spectacular,that I am hoping to see something new soon, or that my kids just love them so much and I don't know what on earth we would do without that brand, product, service, show, music or author.
I shop a lot! Not that I splurge on all kinds of fancy things for myself, (although I am a major, major snack, beauty, book and coffee addict!) and I love nothing more than surprise boxes that arrive on my doorstep each month! (You know those kinds, the samples, trial sizes, new products, crafts, toys, BEAUTY PRODUCTS and SNACKS!!)
I just can't get enough of those.
I have so many trial sizes and samples and products and pretty little beauty bags, recyclable shopping bags, boxes that we repurpose, all filled to the brim! (I also get a lot of giveaway items from these boxes. By the way, be on the lookout for a very cool scavenger hunt in the next couple days!)
When I receive these heavenly boxes of gorgeous and yummy treasures, I like to try them and even give some away and I love to thank the brands for the products and when I absolutely adore something, I HAVE A BIG MOUTH! (Or should I say, hands? Fingers? Lol!)
One of the coolest things about sharing on the internet, are these websites where you can get rewarded in some way to shout your opinions and thoughts about brands, products and services. Sometimes I win gift cards, other times I earn gift cards, sometimes, I even earn free boxes or extra goodies!!
I am a member of at least 10 websites where I review products on a regular basis and since I really enjoy the way the website is set up, or how a program they offer is set up and my most very favorite addition, TWITTER PARTIES!, I will always schedule that website in my agenda.
One of the most fascinating websites that I have ever come across is, Influenster.
If you haven't heard about, Influenster, you may want to check them out.
Maybe you have heard about these, "Vox Boxes"? I have heard of them and seen them and adored them from afar. I have yet to receive one but I am trying and trying and trying to earn the opportunity to receive one.
Vox Boxes are stocked full with amazing products that the awesome people from Influenster, believe are worthy of landing in your precious hands. They usually seem to go by a theme of some sort and they come loaded with everything you need and from what I have seen in many reviews, FULL SIZE PRODUCTS! Now, again, I haven't had the chance to receive one but I have seen them on other blogs, social networks, Influenster Vox's Twitter page and their Facebook page. I can honestly say that you are a mega superstar if you get the chance to receive, try, review and hashtag your box all over the interwebs!
Now, of course we all love grabbing free stuff to try and yes, getting a box with some luscious smelling and scrumptious tasting supplies is like waking up on Christmas morning! But, Influenster has so much more to offer.
If you like rewards, perks and just hanging out, chillin with internet friends who happen to have opinions and ideas to, then, you may want to sign up!
One of the best parts about, Influenster, would have to be, Voxperks! You may be familiar with perks from other websites, Influenster is no different. They offer a wide variety of perks, thanks to sponsors and they will show up in your account when you log on. (They have expiration dates so if you are going to take advantage of a perk, grab it up as fast as you can!)
One of the neatest perks I have seen would have to be the "12 for $12 Instagram tattoos"! I also have a Voxperk available right now for a free bottle of wine and free shipping! Oh La La!!
Another radical bonus you will get when being a member is, campaigns!
Campaigns usually consist of some sort of blog post or social media campaign or a special contest available for Influenster members. You may have to find a certain product in a store and snap a few photos and share or you may be asked to write a blog post and share that.
Of course, Influenster doesn't skimp on prizes, so, you want to make sure you snap, share, link, write, post, Tweet, Instagram, whatever it takes to get you up on the top of the list to be available for prizes. Not only are they fun to participate in, they are a fun way to get to know brands and learn about different products or promotions. (Oh and for bloggers, it gives you some more to write about, just in case you would ever possibly run out of things to say!)
Now, I am onto my favorite part of Influenster. The reviews and questions!
I mentioned earlier, how I am a loud mouth and I am really never shy. I will talk and talk for days about something I love if I want too. (and if anybody ever feels like listening!) If you also enjoy sharing your thoughts and ideas and experiences, you can do this!!
Influenster has thousands of products available for us to review and let the brand know exactly what we think. You can even leave questions there for other members or the brand and you receive an email if somebody answered your questions. Now, if that doesn't sound like enough to make you stop whatever you are doing and run to the nearest computer or phone, (By the way!! Influenster has their own app!), then maybe when you hear about my next favorite part, you will say, "OK! Now, I am going to sign up!!" Badges!
Badges are basically that, badges. But, they have to be unlocked by you. How, do you ask? By sharing your reviews, answering member's questions, completing campaigns and reviewing and sharing any Vox Boxes you may receive.
You can unlock as many badges as you want and you can earn every single one, if your little heart so desires!
You want to show off your expertise and skills, right? Of course! Badges are just the way to prove your mad skills and ninja techniques?
No, you can't wear them around your house, at school or work or at the mall, but you can show them off to your friends and share about how much you are adored!
Besides all of these reasons, I have to mention that I think it is absolutely wonderful how we are able to communicate with brands and let them know what we think. I trust brands a lot more when they are a part of a community like this and when they attend Twitter parties, I am thrilled! It shows they truly care about us, their customers. I like to think that by sharing my opinion, I have a say in what brands offer in the future and what to do away with, what to keep and what to invent. I think that after all, this is the best part. Working together to create some of the most fascinating, most delicious products! For that, I am very grateful for Influenster!
* Disclosure: I received a free product and coupons from ChapStick and Smiley360, in return for my opinions and honest review of this product. Receiving a free sample, product, coupons or payment never sways my opinion or review and I will always disclose exactly what I received in return for my review *
Hi, my name is Brandy, and my drug of choice is, lip products! Glosses, moisturizers, glitters, plumpers, stains, lipsticks and ChapSticks. (Honestly, I should say, "My drugs of choice are beauty products of all shapes and sizes!"
I can't help it, especially since I turned 40 and became a grandma, I am an extra, super, duper beauty junkie. (I'm trying to keep my cute, youthful glow for another 40 years, or um, as much as possible!)
I am notorious for applying glosses and chapsticks, several times a day. After every drink, snack, meal, phone call, teeth brushing, before grabbing the mail, before running errands, at work, before work, after work, in the winter, fall, spring and summer and after every time I bite dead skin from my lips and every time I lick the scented goodness from my lips! (Hey, don't judge! Who doesn't get hungry for cotton candy when you smell it all day?)
Ok, see, I admit I have this problem, sooo, it isn't the same thing, right? Well, it does suck. It is easily hidden with sloppy applications of goopy, pink, glittery, glosses that end up smelling even more like candy apples, pop rocks, cherries, strawberry cheesecakes, peppermint, spearmint, oh my, it's making me hungry just thinking about it!
I have tried everything, well, I thought I did. I mean, I think lip stains and lip sticks are so groovy, but I never get to use them often, unless they are slobbered over with some tasty lip gloss and even then, it doesn't last real long.
I do tend to favor glossy, pinks, bright reds, bright pinks, even whites and usually some sort of glimmer, shimmer or glitter. But, I always loved the look of lip stain, maybe just with some shimmery, white gloss, right in the middle of my lips. (It seems to make them look more plump and juicy!) But, lip stain, no matter the shade, does not look so pretty on bitten up lips.
No, my lips aren't bitten down to a bloody, painful pulp, but there is probably a little sliver of skin that I can rip off my lips with my teeth at any moment. I sometimes have this odd belief that if I rip enough off, I'll make them smooth again, however, this only seems to work for about an hour. (Do not try this at home!)
Anyway, I received a special little goody package from, Smiley360 and ChapStick in the mail and I ripped it out of the pack and tried this snazzy tube of, Dual Ended Hydration Lock Moisture and Renew ChapStick and after making several goofy attempts to open it and twist the end to bring this moisturizing dream come true, up so I could try it out, I realized I was not to twist the bottom at all! (Another, do not try this at home!!)
I realized, "Oh, duh! It's dual ended, so, both sides have to open and both sides need to twist up and both ends have their own little dial to twist, directly beneath it!"
Luckily, the other end wasn't to smooshed up, but it almost hit the cap and there would've went my nice new ChapStick.
I finally had it figured out and was able to use it.....My very first impression was, well, this is ok, but, it doesn't seem to awesome, I mean, it doesn't taste like anything and it doesn't glide on like gloss?? Well, of course it isn't going to and of course it shouldn't, otherwise, it'll defeat it's purpose! (Unless it's just me who has this problem?)
After a few minutes and no tingling or burning, I thought, "Hmmmmm. This can't be so bad, I mean, it definitely felt like it was moisturizing and renewing because, I instantly felt and could see improvement!
I continued to use this a few times a day, for a few days, all by itself!! No, glittery, hot pink glosses, no shimmery, marshmellow scented and tricking me into tasting it and guess what? There were even MORE improvements!
(The only thing that did not improve was me, remembering NOT to twist the bottom of 1 end when trying to bring up the other side!) I really wish there was a better way to package this goodness but, I can't for the life of me, figure out a better way. (Again, is it just me?)
I decided to treat myself to some lip stain and gloss, I don't care for just the matte look but I have to find another way for the shimmery look because I was right at the biting and ripping layers off again.
The good thing was/is, that, ChapSticks Hydration Lock Moisture and Renew actually works. I don't come across this very often with lip products who swear up and down to provide you with some amazing benefits. But, this stuff is like rehab for lip biters, peelers, pickers and even people who live in warmer, humid climates or cold, windy climates and everybody in between.
What else is nice about this product is the price. I have seen it as high as $2.99 but as low as $1.99, regular price.
Just last week a local retailer offered these at a dreamy price, 2 for $3! (Collect some 50 cents off 1 coupons to make an even better deal!)
Have you tried this new product from, ChapStick?
What did you think?
What lip remedies or products have you tried that actually helped with improving the look and feel of your lips?
Are you a member of Smiley360?
