Colleen Rothschild Dual Enzyme Polish

Colleen Rothschild Dual Enzyme Polish - $55.00 US

I don't like face scrubs.  The reason is because many scrubs are made with harsh jagged beads that actually cause micro tears in the skin surface which leads to damage and premature ageing.  The only scrub I found so far to like that had smooth round beads was one made by Murad.  However I never really felt like it did much for my skin.  So while it cleans it, its not my go to product.  I feel my clarisonic gives me better results. 

I exfoliate my skin everyday.  However when it comes to exfoliating, its important to know the difference between a physical exfoliant and a chemical exfoliant.  A physical exfoliant is a scrub. Plain and simple. It only cleans the top layer of your skin and nothing more.  Your clarisonic can give you the same results to be honest.  A chemical exfoliant like BHA and AHA actually remove the top layer of skin and penetrate deeper in order to cause something call 'cell turnover' in over to produce new healthy skin cells and get rid of old ones.  A normal physical scrub cannot accomplish this. Regardless of what the product may say, only chemical exfoliants have been proven to cause cell turnover.

So with all that being said, I am always very weary when I hear about a company that offers a face scrub and claims the above. However when I saw that Colleen Rothschild Dual Enzyme Polish was not only a scrub, but a scrub that offered fruit enzyme and AHA complex exfoliation, I was intrigued!  The only other company I have ever seen offer this dual combination was philosophy The Microdelivery Purifying Peel One-Minute Purifying Enzyme Peel. However again, you won't see results in one minute.  So when Colleen Rothschild was also offering their Dual Enzyme Polish, I knew I had to try it!  (I have tried one other product from this line called the Radiant Cleansing Balm which I just love!)

What caught my attention to this product was how it worked.  You first apply an evenly thin to modest layer on your damp face and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. However with that been said, make sure to let this sit for at least 10 minutes on your face.  In order for AHA to work it actually has to remain on your face for at least that amount of time to show results.  AHA does not work in face washes.  You are basically throwing your money down the drain if you buy a face wash with AHA. AHA is made to be left on the skin and not washed down the drain.  I left this dual enzyme polish on for 20 minutes while I checked my insatgram (so addictive I tell you).  After the 20 minutes were up, I scrubbed it on my face and wash it off with lukewarm water.  

If for some reason you don't have 10-20 minutes to let it sit, the great thing about this product is that the beads are small and round enough to be used as a gentle physical exfoliator to clean the top layer of your skin.  I really liked how soft it felt on my face with no hard scratchy or irritating feeling.  It washed off clean with no residue left behind and didn't have a smell that I detected.   

After I washed it off, I was amazed on how my skin looked and felt.  Don't get me wrong, I use a chemical exfoliant every night on my face.  Either my BHA or AHA from Paula's Choice.  And while hands down those are my go to products, but never have I felt something like this.  It literally felt like I just stepped out of a microdermabrasion appointment.  My face felt like the whole top layer had been removed, cleansed and left without impurities.  I just kept staring at it in the mirror wondering why it felt to incredibly different.  It felt like I had just put a baby's butt on my face!  It felt so light and airy that it's hard to describe.  If you ever had microdermabrasion done before, then you understand the feeling of feeling like a whole new level of skin has been unveiled.  I was amazed on how the texture of my skin looked and felt and how I had no irritation.  Even the next day when I woke up, my skin still looked like it was glowing!

I won't lie, this product is pricey and retails for $55.00 US.  However I had a gift card and a coupon code that I applied which brought it down to $34.00 US.  So while it still wasn't cheap, but If I knew ahead of time the results I would get with this, I gladly pay the $55.00.  You are suppose to use this 1-2 times a week.  I am looking forward to using this again this week!  I can't remember the last time I felt so excited to use a product that left me with amazing results!

I highly recommend this product if you are looking not only for a scrub but for a chemical exfoliant to get a great two in one combination!

So there you have it! My review on this product! Have you tried this dual enzyme polish?  Let me know below what type of results you have seen after using this product!!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana    

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Are You a Product Junkie?!

If you can read this title and automatically relate, then you know you have a problem.  However if you are not clear and need further clarification, then read on!

Product Junkie: Someone who buys way to many beauty items and never actually finishes using one before they buy and move on to another.  

Product Junkie: Someone who has so many beauty products that their shelves, drawers and bathroom is overflowing. 

Product Junkie: Someone who buys (on impulsive) the latest beauty products without actually needing it.

Product Junkie: Someone who buys beauty products without any real intentions on using them ever, or more then once. 

So if you can relate to any of the top four comments, then this post is surely for you.  You are a product junkie and you truly have a problem!! But don't worry, there is help for you and together we will get you through this!!

So now that you figured out you have a problem, below are a few steps you can take in order to help yourself stop being a product junkie and on the way to the road of recovery with clearer shelves.  Now don't get me wrong, it won't be easy, but trust me once you start de-cluttering, you will see its all well worth it!

Stop Shopping! Period.  The truth is, just about everyone feels good when they buy something.  However once that rush, that high is over then we all move on to the next bigger and better thing.  However, at some point we need to know when enough is enough.  I like trying out different type of products; hair products, skincare products, body products, just about any beauty product available for the body from head to toe I want to use and try.  Nonetheless, we need to be mindful to take inventory of how many shampoos for example we have underneath our bathroom sink and why we never finished using them up before we go out and buy more.  When you start shopping in excess you end up with your own mini drugstore in your home.  So stop shopping and start taking inventory of all your products and see what you need and what can be thrown out.

Take Inventory!  Once you stop shopping, take inventory of everything you have in your shelves, drawers and bathroom.  Pull it all out and start going through it one by one.  The only way to help de-clutter is to know how much of what you have and what you don't need.  Many times you will find bottles of things that are expired, empty or simply just not worth holding on to.  Once you pull all your beauty products out, start REALISTICALLY classifying them.  Make two piles.  Keep and Throw.  Remember, keeping what you don't need is no different then throwing it out if you never really plan to use it.  If you plan to have it sit on the shelf for another year or two, then you might as well throw it out or re-gift it as it truly serves you no purpose or use.   

Throw it Out!  Many of us have a very hard time of letting go of things.  The first thing that always comes out of people's mouth is "but if I throw it out then I just wasted money" versus you keeping it on your shelve and letting it expire or never using it?!  Truth is, if you bought it with no real intentions of using it, then you wasted money.  If you bought it and a year later you still have it hardly used and/or untouched, then you already wasted money.  If you already bought it, period, then you already wasted the money.  No matter how you classify it, once you buy it, the money is gone. No matter what you do (unless you return it) you are not getting your money back.  So the moment you can start putting things in perspective, the easier it is to let go of it.  Anything expired throw it out.  Anything that you NEVER plan to use because you hate the smell or texture of it, throw it out.  Sure you can re-gift it. But come on let's be real.  Are you really going to do that, or is it just an excuse to shove it back in your closet?  If you plan to re-gift it, then make sure to get it out of your house in two weeks or less.  If not, I can assure you, it will end up right back from where you originally pulled it out of. 

Display It!  Once you decide as to what you are keeping (and I mean seriously keeping AND using) you need to display it.  If you put it back in your drawers, closets, shelves or underneath your sink, will end you back up in the same syndrome.  The "out of sight out of mind" syndrome and thus telling yourself you need X products and start shopping all over again.  However if you display it and its in your line of view everyday, then chances are you will use it up before going out and buying more.  One of my New Years resolutions was to start using up everything I had in my bathroom before buying anything new.  In order to do this, I started displaying everything I was keeping and putting it in places where I knew I would be able to reach for it and use it with ease.  So for example, after going through my drawers, I realized I had three hair masks (one I completely forgot about) that needed to be used up.  One had one more treatment left in it, one was half way used and the other one hadn't been opened.  Mind you, I bought that one last year in the fall so keep in mind its been there awhile.  I pulled all three out and displayed them on top of my toilet bowl with my other three body creams.  So now every time I come out the shower, I can see them right in my line of view.  Due to this, I was able to finish up the hair mask with one treatment left last night.  I was also able to finish using one of my three body creams that I have in my bathroom, plus I finished using a shampoo and conditioner that I bought last year around this time that was sitting underneath my bathroom sink.  

Part of de-cluttering is saving yourself and your wallet from being a product junkie and being realistic of what you currently have, need and don't need.  I assure you, if you follow these four easy steps above, you will have your bathroom shelves cleaned out within the next few months before you need anything new.   

Are you a product junkie in need of help? Tell me below what your vice is and how you plan to clean out your shelves!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

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6 Skincare Companies Worth Knowing!

Post Contains Affiliated links

Last week I wrote about six independent beauty companies worth checking into because of their amazing prices, fabulous makeup quality and amazing makeup brushes. Click here for that review. This week I decided to spotlight six skincare companies that in my opinion not only offer quality products that actually produce results, but that also showcase quality ingredients without using harsh chemicals, alcohols, fragrances, fillers or binders that breakdown collagen and create free radical cell damage.  

These six companies are the ONLY ones you will see on my vanity bathroom counter year around.  I literally have nothing else there besides these six companies.  While you won't find these products in your local department store, drugstore or Sephora, however not finding them there doesn't mean you shouldn't be looking into them.  I am very picky about what goes on my face and ALWAYS do my medical research on the ingredients before buying a product.  It doesn't phase me who's name is on the product.  If it doesn't add up then its not worth damaging your face over. Period.  These six companies so far I have found to fit the bill and offer me the skincare quality I need to keep me looking young, fresh and alive day in and day out in any type of weather!

Paula's Choice

If you haven't heard about Paula's Choice its probably because you been living under a skincare rock like I was up to two years ago.  I started using Paula's Choice Skin Balancing line as my skincare routine and never looked back.  I came to hear about this company all by accident.  My physician friend one day notified me that if I wasn't using a good BHA/AHA/Retinol/Vitamin C at my age then I wasn't using anything at all. So of course I hit the internet to first find the medical literature on these ingredients and then the products themselves.  What a world of wonder I found.  Not only did I find tons of products from other companies full of crap ingredients but many were either harmful to the skin or no longer effective due to bad packaging.  So my search lead me on a massive product hunt for two weeks.  Hence when I found Paula's Choice.  Not only did they have actual up-to-date medical literature to back up their product claims, but they also have proper packaging for their products based on the ingredients they use.  Truly this company amazes me as you can find literally just about any BHA/AHA/Retinol/Vitamin C product to suit your skincare needs.  The prices are affordable, their shipping is realistic and their ingredients are quality.  You can literally shop for just about every skincare problem you have and for all seasonal issues.  90% of my skincare products are Paula's Choice.  I don't know how I got by before I starting using these products.  Nonetheless, I don't plan to ever get by without them again!

As a bonus, if you click on the Paula's Choice link here, for first time buyers you will get a $10 credit for any item you buy worth $15 or more! This company is truly worth trying out!

Colleen Rothschild

I first heard about this company from Youtube, where else!  Mrs. Rothschild is pretty brilliant.  She used the power of youtube and sent a few beauty youtubers products from her line to sample and review.  Needless to say it worked because it got me hooked not to mention others!  My first purchase ever was there Radiant Cleansing Balm which literally melted away all my makeup in one shot.  After that I tried their Clarifying Detox Face Mask which I love as well.  When it comes to an effective luxury brand, trust me this is one of them. This line has great ingredients in it which are worth noting.  A lot of their packaging is correct for the products they sell in order to keep the formula's stable.  In their line you will find products with retinol, vitamin C and salicylic acid which all make a really big difference on the face when packaged and used correctly.  Mrs. Rothschild also understands that when it comes to skincare, one product does NOT do it all and she makes that clear on her website.  You need to use a combination of products in order to tackle a combination of issues. However those products must contain certain stable ingredients that one needs in order for this happen which are found in this line.  Colleen Rothschild line offers a range of products from gentle face cleanser to more potent products like retinol.  I am slowly trying out more of their products as they are not cheap but well worth the money.       

Ageless Derma

I came to try Ageless Derma when one day I decided that I needed to use a Retinol Eye Cream with Vitamin K.  I searched high and low but could not find anything with these two ingredients put together.  I read in a medical journal article that putting retinol with vitamin K helped to diminished the look of fine lines and wrinkles but to also condition the skin to avoid the possible dryness that retinol can cause.  After trying this product out, I was hooked and ended up using at least four more of their products.  This company was founded by a medical doctor who did his research in order to create quality skincare products.  Their facial cleansers, skin brightening creams and moisturizers have some amazing ingredients in them that truly leave your skin with great results.  They lack the usual ingredients found in many skincare products like fragrances, alochol, fillers and so on which is a bonus.  I enjoy using this product line and always have a bottle of something of theirs either in my shower or on my bathroom vanity.  While they might be a bit pricey, but the results are worth every penny.

Use code Ageless when checking out to get 20% of your order storewide!   

Poppy Austin

Poppy Austin was another company I found all by accident.  While searching for an authentic but decently price Argan Oil, I found this company.  What I just love about Poppy Austin is not just the fact that they use quality ingredients but that they don't charge an arm and a leg for all natural products either.  You also won't find unnecessary ingredients in their skincare line.  They don't incorporate fragrances, dyes, scents or alcohol in their products.  The only scent I have smelled so far is in the rose water which by nature it has a scent on its own. The products are completely decently priced and all the ingredients are listed on the bottle.  Their bottle sizes are amazing for the amount you get and pay for. You literally get twice the size of product versus in other companies when the bottles are about 1 oz or less.  They sell some amazing Roesehip Oil, Vitamin C Serum, Rhassoul Clay Mask and Eye Cream worth trying.  They also work with the community where they harvest their materials from in order to offer them paying wages.  This company is not only a great product line but humanitarians as well!           

VoilaVe

VoilaVe is actually a company that found me! And let me tell you I have not been disappointed one bit!  I have literally sampled EVERY product from this line.  Took about half the year to do it, but nonetheless it truly was well worth it.  This company is 100% USDA and Eco Certified Organic.  They do not test on animals and are all made in the USA.  They offer face serums from pure Hyaluronic Acid, to their 4oz Argan Oil, Rosehip Oil, Triple Action Vitamin C Serum to Eye Cream.  Their best product that I literally rave about is there Dead Sea Mud Mask.  I use this product twice a week without fault.  The majority of their products are 99% natural and they truly stand behind their products by not ever using scents, alcohols, fillers, binders or any form of ingredients that can cause collagen breakdown or free radical cell damage.  I use their products every day and have truly been amazed by their results.  I am so grateful that they reached out to me and gave the opportunity to sample their line.  If you want to try an all natural line, trust me this is it!!   

Cosmetic Skin Solutions

I started using Cosmetic Skin Solutions (CSS) when I first wanted to try a product with 1% retinol and a vitamin C + E serum as well.  This company is very comparable to skinceuticals but for literally a fraction of the cost.  You see no company can ever justify charging hundreds of dollar for a simple yet effective vitamin C serum.  I will not pay above $40 for any type of serum that contains the same ingredients you find in a $20 one.  CSS makes sure to not only make products that contain quality ingredients, but products that also have proven results with affordable pricing.  I have also tried their Hydra B Masque Advance Formula, and their Day Moisturizing Creme with great results.  These two creams helped to restore my face last summer when I suffered a horrific allergic reaction that literally burned my face and left it peeling.  This company also stays away from using products that contain alochol, scents, dyes and so on.  The majority of their products are properly packaged in order to keep the ingredients stable.   I love this company and love using their products every chance I get!

 If you shop from their site and use their promo code CSSPROMO you get 5% off all your purchases.  

So their you have it, my top six skincare companies worth trying out.  Let me know if you have tried any of these companies or other ones that offer quality ingredients with great prices and good shipping!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

FTC: I was not paid for writing this post and all opinions are my own.  Post does contain affiliated links.

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My Julep Hand & Nail Care Routine

This post contains affiliated links

Hands speak the world about you. They are able to give away your age, tell others if you suffer from a nervous tick, how often you get manicures and to a point what type of career you have.  My mother always told me to make sure my hands and nails were always in great shape when entering the workforce.  She believed that a professional should always have properly manicured nails in order to look their best.  I have always made sure that my nails were filed down to a proper length every week and that my nail polish was never too ostentatious.  My nails grow at an accelerated rate to the point where I have to cut them every week.  However, every time I have become pregnant, they start to break off at an accelerated rate as well.  Not to mention in the winter, my hands and nails take a massive hit with the cold.  

Last year in the summer I became a Julep Maven Member.  What I like about this program so much was my ability to be able to create and get great hand and nail care products at an affordable price all in one place.  Since I have been pregnant (literally) since 2009 (with all my (soon to be) four kids) my nails have taken a hit both on and off 'season'.  So I decided this winter to put together a hand and nail care routine in order to make sure that they make it through the winter and pregnancy in almost decent shape.  So far I have to say its working!

Julep Oxygen Nail Treatment -  $14.00 / 18.00 US

This is one of the best nail treatments I have seen or tried in a while.  My nails are normally hard and sturdy.  However with pregnancy they become brittle, soft and break off easily.  I started using this product seriously two weeks ago and was amazed to see how my nails grew strong again with only one breakage.  I also realized that they no longer looked brittle, but shiny, smoother and the free edge (the white part) was very white and strong.  You are suppose to wear this nail treatment alone on clean nails with no other type of nail polish.  It leaves a nice soft pinky color on your nails.  It lasted me a whole week before needing to reapply.  When I cleaned it off with nail polish remover in order to re-apply again for the next week, there were no stains left behind on my nails.  I am honestly amazed at this nail treatment and what a simple week and two coats did to my nails. 

 Julep Mighty Nail & Cuticle Serum - $22.40 / $28.00 US

My cuticles get very dry during the winter season to the point of scary looking.  I normally push back my cuticles and clean up around my nails to get rid of all dead and dry skin.  However, I noticed that wasn't enough to keep them looking pretty, soft and hydrated throughout this Arctic weather.  That was until I came across this mighty (and yes it is mighty) pen serum.  This stuff is amazing! First, it comes in the form of click pen which dispenses the right amount of product for your nails.  It also contains peptides, green tea, fruit extract and other ingredients to help promote nail growth.  I comes out as a clear liquid with no smell and does not leave behind a sticky or tacky feeling.  It drys under 60 seconds with no residue.  I put this on at nights right before bed in order to allow the product to sink in without being wiped off from constantly using my hands all day long.  This is like my new holy grail product for cuticles.  

Julep Brilliance Glycolic Scrub - $23.00 / $26.00 US

I have never tried a hand scrub that contained Glycolic acid in it.  I have tried Glycolic acid before on my face (AHA) and have always achieved amazing results. However I never thought about trying it on hands, till now.  In the winter my hands tend to get dry and scaly.  I started using this product months back every night in order to wake up to glowy, youthful, radiant hands every morning.  This stuff is just awesome.  Every night before bed, I wet my hands a bit and rub this scrub all over my hands, nails, cuticles and knuckles.  This really does away with the flaky and dry skin over night!  This product contains Glycolic acid to help reveal younger skin and get rid of dark spots, diminish the looks of wrinkles on your hands and smooth out the skin.  However do note, if you are using this product which contains AHA, you need to use SPF 30 UVA/UVB protection.  Glycolic acid causes your skin to become extremely sensitive to the sun.  In order to avoid a sunburn or have your hands look worse than before, ALWAYS use sunscreen on your hands during the daylight when using a product of this type.  

 

Julep Luxe Care Hand Creme - $20.00 / $16.00 US

After using the Julep Brilliance Glycolic Scrub on my hands I always follow up with Julep's Luxe Hand Creme.  This hand creme is ultra rich and moisturizing.  Literally a little goes a long way.  This hand creme contains Power Cell Complex, Rosehip seed oil, Malvaceae lipid extract, and Green Coffee bean oil to name a few.  I use this every night after my hand scrub and go straight to bed.  This literally leaves my hands feeling like silk every morning.  I have never tried a hand cream so rich that literally left me speechless with such great results.  I really wish they would make something similar to this for the body.

If you are interested in becoming a Julep Maven Member then click on the picture box above to get your first box FREE!  You only pay $3.99 for shipping when using the code "HOORAY".  This membership is available to all US and Canadian customers.  You can cancel your membership at anytime without penalties.

Once you become a Julep Maven Member, you get a customize box that you design!  If for some reason you are not feeling the box of the month or nothing you want to change it up with, you can always skip that month without having to cancel your membership or pay a thing!

So if you want to try all these great products for Julep for a great discount, then look into their membership! 

So there you have it, my hands and nails care routine.  Let me know what other products you have tried for your hands that have worked wonders for you!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana 

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Poppy Austin Revitalizing Eye Cream Review

Poppy Austin Revitalizing Eye Cream - $22.50 US

I received this product as part of an advertorial. 

Poppy Austin is a company I have fallen in love with over the last year!  They make great products that not only work but are sensible and safe for the skin. So far with the exception of one ingredient that they used in one of their products, I don't have a single complaint about the company.  

The eyes, hands and neck are the first thing to reveal your age as we get older.  So its important that you always use properly formulated products that will make a difference in those areas.  I normally use retinol around my eyes, however being pregnant its a 'no no'.  So instead I have to pick other products that are just as effective without potentially harming the baby.

When I saw that Poppy Austin came out with an eye cream I was so psyched to try it.  However when I realized that I was going to have the chance to review it as well, I was totally over the moon.  This product contains "organic Aloe, organic Jojoba Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Rosehip Oil, Green Tea, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Tamanu Oil" to name a few.  It also lacks all the silly fillers, alochol and other ingredients that are harmful to the skin!

I started using this around my eye area four weeks ago and I have to say I am amazed at the results.  It has helped greatly with puffiness, tackling my very fine lines and wrinkles and seriously hydrating my eye area.  I was amazing when one day I touched my eye and realized just how awesome it felt!  It felt literally like fine silk I kid you not.  I couldn't stop touching my eyes and get over how soft my skin felt. I love the fact that it has NO smell to it which is great. Fragrances in skincare products are actually harmful to the skin and break down collagen.  Moreover fragrances around the eyes are a serious potential irritant.   So its important to me that all my skincare products be fragrance free. 

 Now in regards to dark circles there was no help there are dark circles are genetic and no eye cream can help with that.  That is a proven medical fact that in order to get rid of dark circles only plastic surgery works in that area.  However lack of sleep and dehydrating helps to make them look worse.  So while this did nothing to help with my dark circles, however it did hydrate the skin well enough on days I was lacking on sleep so it didn't look any worse. So that was truly a bonus for me! Any help in the dark circle area works for me.  

Another bonus is that this eye cream isn't your normal small size bottle.  While it isn't large, however for the price you get a decent amount.  I hate buying eye cream that comes in a tiny jar and paying a lot for hardly nothing.  Moreover this eye cream comes in an air tight and light protected pump bottle.  So the integrity of the product remains stable and doesn't lose it value since no air or light gets into it.  I personally NEVER use a cream product form of any kind that comes in a jar.  Reason is with its constant exposure to light and air (not to mention bacteria from your hands) it breaks down and destabilizes the ingredients.  So I appreciate that Poppy Austin understands not only about using quality ingredients but how to protect them when it comes to packaging.

I would totally recommend this product if you can't or don't want to use a retinol product and are in the market for a good eye cream.  

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

FTC: While I received this product for review, I was not paid for my post and all opinions are solely my own. 

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VoilaVe Triple Action Vitamin C Serum

VoilaVe Triple Action Vitamin C Serum - $19.95 US

VoliaVe is an amazing company that I have had the privilege of working with by trying out their products the last few months! I am a total skincare junkie to the point where I am always on the look out for the next best quality product.  However throughout the years I have been greatly disappointed by a lot of high end and low end brands with their level of quality.  One thing I except from skincare companies is honesty and transparency with their ingredients on all their products.  I hate seeing companies that claim to be all natural, and yet upon a further look at their product list, you find things like alcohol, fragrances, witch hazel and fillers which really affect the health of your skin.

I particularly enjoy VoilaVe products because of their honesty and integrity to their consumers. So far all their products that I have used from them contain no alcohol, fillers, binders or fragrances (to name a new) in their bottles.  What you see and read is what you get.  Many of their products are certified organic, none are tested on animals and all their products are made in the USA.

I was recently sent a nice size bottle of their VoilaVe Triple Action Vitamin C Serum.  Now I was really curious in trying this out because I had never heard of a "triple action" vitamin C serum.  In my whole time of being a beauty blogger and learning about skincare products, I didn't really know how many different possible levels of vitamin C that existed.  Nonetheless VoliaVe was able to bottle this in one, PLUS it also contains hyaluronic acid which is awesome.  I remember thinking when I was waiting for this product in the mail "man if only it contained hyaluronic acid it would so totally rock!"  When I finally got the bottle and read the ingredients I was excited!!

This product comes in a long 1oz bottle in a pump action form which I thought was amazing.  You see, normally vitamin C comes (or should come) in the form of a dark opaque bottle with a droplet.  However the only problem with that, is that its a race against time before the vitamin C which is an antioxidant goes bad.  Normally you have about three months to use up a bottle of vitamin C before it loses it full effect.  So in this case bigger is not always better.  Antioxidants breakdown with light and air.  However VoilaVe vitamin C was packaged in a air tight pump action container with the companies logo and information wrapped around the bottle to protect it from light.  I thought this was brilliant because that meant I wasn't acting like a speed devil using useless amounts of vitamin C in order to finish it up quickly.  

The serum comes in a clear form and you honestly need only one drop for your whole face.  The pump action is very controlled so that a large amount does not dispense causing waste.  It glides on smoothly on the skin and absorbs quickly with no residue left behind.  This serum works great for those who have uneven skin tone, dryness and dull looking complexions. It helps with redness on the face and acne scars to name a few.  The hyaluronic acid helps to plump out the skin, diminish the looks of fine lines and wrinkles, and smooth out your skin.  VoilaVe also produces a Hyaluronic Acid on its own which is really worth looking into.  (Click here to read that review). 

After using this product for almost three weeks, I have to say I am totally pleased!  Everything this product claims to do it has done.  My face really feels the changes in the look and texture because of this product.  This products contains to even out my skin tone, reduce the redness around my nose and plump out my skin with a healthy looking glow!

 I have yet to end up with bad results or any allergic reaction from any of their products.  I honestly cannot say enough about this company and the amazing quality of products they put out.  I am thinking of self appointing myself as their official spokesperson in Canada! But shsss, don't tell them I said that!!  :-)

Keep Smiling!

Dayana             

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Miracalis Anti-Aging Cream Review

Miracalis Anti-Aging Cream - $35.95 US

I received this product as part of an advertorial. 

I have read before that even if you have good skin, it’s wise to start using an anti-aging cream in your 30’s.  I mean you cant be young forever right!  And all skin needs a little help as we age.  However with that being said, I have to admit I don’t use any moisturizer’s or face creams as I should because I have not found one or shall I say, any that I really liked.  I have a collection in my bathroom of face creams that possible compete with your local Sephora and yet, I use them rarely…. that is until I tried Miracalis Anti-Aging Cream.  When I was told I was going to be able to try this product out by Miracalis I was thrilled!

This cream comes in a glass pot that is light weight and cute looking.   The cream it self is very soft and light.   I found that using a pea size amount was enough to get my whole face and neck area.  It applied on very silky and glided on well without any harsh rubbing to blend it in.  I used this cream twice a day after my daily skincare routine.  I used it in the mornings and at nights before bedtime.  It went on smooth and dried quickly with no residue left behind, greasy look or feel.  

It’s also odorless which I love!!!  Face cream should never have fragrance as that is a potential irritant to the skin.   Since I have very delicate skin that is set off by many products, this truly was a winner for me.  It never irritated my skin or dried it out.  This cream left my skin feeling and looking firmer and softer after almost just 3 weeks of constant use. 

I can apply my makeup almost instantly after using this cream as it absorbed quickly into my skin.  This also works great at night right before bedtime.  As I am ready to hit the pillow after my night time skincare routine, its absorbed nicely and quickly with no nasty residue!

I have found that I use this product more than any other face creams I have purchased in the past leaving me very satisfied.  I plan to continue using this cream due to its great benefits and the fact that my face looks and feels great so that's a bonus as well!

Stay pretty & forever young!

Jenny!

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.

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VoilaVe 100% Pure LH Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum

VoilaVe 100% Pure LH Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum - $24.95 US

When you end up getting two degrees from grad school (yes my friends, I am not just a pretty face but a pretty brain), the one thing you become good at is research.  My first internship landed me in a medical clinic where I worked for four years day in and day out seeing patients.  Working along side fellow colleagues (medical doctors) you learn all sorts of neat things.  From what types of meds you should take, should you ever catch a blood infection (thank God I listen that day, it saved my life two years later) down to all sort of stuff in dermatology.  In this area I truly listened and abused my colleagues for their knowledge (thank you Sam!).  

I get asked by companies all the time to do reviews on their skincare products and I turn down a lot of them.  Actually more than half.  The reason is because many of the ingredients that they have in their skincare lines suck.  I don't have any other nice grad school term to use here.  Again, after learning how to do proper research to graduate (twice) you realize that not everything that you put on your  face should be there.  I always ask a company FIRST for their list of ingredients before I agree to try out the product.  When VoilaVe contacted Everything Beauty and Beyond to first review their Argan Oil, I was truly impressed with the manufacturing of that product (click here to read that review).

When they asked me again to try out their VoilaVe LH Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum, it was like Christmas in August!  Since I started writing this blog I started research on all the "new" and "old" type of serums and oils that are currently on the market.  I realized that Hyaluronic Acid had some components that truly made me go "OMG I need to try that!!"   However the majority of the companies I researched that sold Hyaluronic Acid, sold it in some adulterated and perverted form that I was NOT willing to use on my face.  That is until VoliaVe contacted me!

Now what is Hyaluronic Acid you ask? Good question! Let me tell you!! Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is found naturally in the human body and seen in high dosages in babies.  Have you ever wondered why babies and small children always look like they have beautiful supple plumpy skin?  Well its because of the hyaluronic acid in their system. Its a major component of skin tissue that give babies this beautiful plushy effect.  Skin in general holds about fifty percent of your body’s hyaluronic acid in it. However as we get older we lose a lot of it and thus aging takes it toll.  Hyaluronic Acid plumps and moisturizes skin and helps to heal and comfort it when its suffered damage.  Hyaluronic Acid also prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming and helps by retaining moisture in the skin and creating a cushion like effect to help plump out the lines as we age.  Needless to say, this is some good stuff!

However with all being said, HA only works when it formulated properly and is not diluted or adulterated with alochol, dyes or fragrances. VoilaVe Hyaluronic Acid serum is truly a work of science.  Their HA is formulated with low and high molecular structures which allow the serum to not only sit on the skin but to actually sink in.  It delivers a good amount of hydration to the skin by plumping it out and helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It contains no fillers, dilutions, parabens, alcohol (to many HA do), fragrances and is dye free.

When this arrived to my house I was so excited to use it.  I have only ever used one HA product for two weeks before I found out it had witch hazel and I threw it right out.  So trying this product was like a breath of fresh air in a HA world that I lost hope in!  It came in a dark bottle with a droplet.  The product was completely clear with no odor which I loved.  Again I don't believe fragrances or dyes should be in ANY skincare.  The consistency of the product reminder me almost of a hand sanitizer or clear gel soap.  It was very interesting to say the least.  Since it was a bit thick and slippery, all I needed was literally one drop for my entire face.  I was amazed at that.  Normally when I use Argan or Maracuja oil, I need at least two drops to cover my face and four drops for my Vitamin C serum.  So this was awesome that all it took was one drop to do it all!  Since this is not an oil but a serum, I didn't have any issues with greasiness, clogged pores or breakouts.  It dried very quickly on my face and by the time I hit the pillow it was well adsorbed into my skin. 

Now let's talk about results! You need AT LEAST 30 days for improvements to be seen.  I used it twice a day everyday for two weeks.  One drop in the morning and at night.  Since I take very good care of my skin and don't have any real wrinkles yet except on my forehead, I was amazed on how this made my skin feel.  It really plumped it out, made it smooth and soft like glass and really helped with my forehead.  That part really amazed me.   It even helped with certain dry spots I get on my skin on the side of my mouth from time to time.   

I actually plan on continuing to use this HA serum.  It is the best so far that I have found that is actually well formulated and meets all my standard do's and don't on skincare ingredients.  

I am very impressed with this company to say the least.  I still use their Argan Oil and even use it on my two year old daughters hair when I wash it!  So if you are in the market for a new Hyaluronic Acid serum, then for sure give this company a try!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

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Bioque Rejuvenating Day Cream Review

Bioque Rejuvenating Day Cream - $45 USD

I got this product as part of an advertorial 

Bioque Global is an American-based skincare company with approximately 14 products in their line-up.  One of those products, and the one I will be reviewing in this article, is the Rejuvenating Day Cream.

I recently moved and this item was sent to my old address then forwarded on to my permanent address, and than I finally received it after its little adventure through the post office.  So I wasn't able to use it for very long.  First, I love the packaging.   It's minimal but it tells you in large letters right on the box what it is.  The container for the day cream itself is very sleek.  The outside section of it is a clear plastic and you can see the cream right through it.

The cream has a mousse-type of bouncy consistency. You can basically bounce your finger off it. The cream goes on smoothly and is very hydrating.  It can be used on your face, neck and back of hands.  I didn't realize I could also use it on my hands at first.  So I gave it a shot.  I first washed my hands with soap which caused the back of my hand to feel dry afterwards.  I then rubbed some of the cream on and immediately the skin on the back of my hands felt smooth. I plan to keep trying this method on days my hands need a little pick me up!

Bioque's website claims that in as little as four weeks you will see reduced lines and wrinkles. Unfortunately I was not able to use the product for four weeks so I cannot attest to this claim, but I plan on continuing to use the product on the cold winter days.  Since Bioque's Rejuvenating Day Cream might be just a little too hydrating for my very oily skin during the hot summer months it might not be a good idea.  However, if you have normal to dry skin I would most certainly recommend this cream.

I had two complaints about this cream. First, it has too much of a chemical smell.  However, it dissipates rather quickly after applying it on your face.  My second complaint was that it came with a small plastic boomerang looking item that comes inside the packaging but has no explanation as to its use.  I can only assume that I'm supposed to scoop some of the cream out with it in order to avoid contaminating the jar with the germs on my hands.  Nonetheless creams don't stabilize well in jars and they collect bacteria due to the constant sticking of our fingers and things into them.  So I would urge the company to consider bottling this in an air tight pump container.  Many cream companies are now moving towards this method for hygienic and quality assurance of the ingredients.

I would recommend this cream to someone who has normal to combination skin.  For those with oily skin, this might be to much for you.

Keep Smiling!

 Paulette

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.

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Barefaced Dead Sea Mud Mask Review

Barefaced Dead Sea Mud Mask - $24.98 US

I got this product as part of an advertorial. 

Barefaced Skincare is a Los Angeles-based company which produces an organic mud mask product at a USDA Certified Organic facility in California.  Their product is called Barefaced, you guessed it, Mud Musk! Its also a play on words and picture if you see their "bear" on the front of the jar.  Pretty cute if you ask me!

I was only able to try this product once since their instructions claim it should only be used once per week.  I'm currently staying at a friend's place while I plan my big move back home.  My friend's husband was away for a few days last week on a business trip, so one night we decided to try this mud mask out! I mean who wants to be seen all scary looking when not in front of your girlfriends!

The mud mask looks similar to...well...mud but I would say it's more of a slate grey kind of color.  The consistency is also not as gross as real mud. (Disclaimer: I've never gone "mudding."  I know it's a thing but I've never done it.)  I applied the mud mask and it went on  pretty easily and didn't have a horrible chemical smell.  Since all of the ingredients are natural the smell wasn't bad.  After I put on the mask, I stepped out into the living room and my friend's puppy started barking at me. I think I scared her with my demon-looking face.  I mean come on, no one looks normal when they have mud on their face.  It started to dry fairly quickly and turned kind of hard when done.  I couldn't really smile because my face muscles were stiff due to the mud mask drying.

Both my friend Sarah and I kept the mask on for 15 minutes then rinsed it off in the sink with warm water.  This is not a peel off mask so you will have to wash it off thoroughly.  It came off pretty easy except on the sides of my face where I had to scrub a little harder.   My face felt refreshed after using the mask and my nose, which is constantly clogged with sebum, felt much smoother and clearer.  My friend Sarah felt the same way.  Two thumbs up from me and this awesome mask! I plan on using the mask once a week.

This mud mask is 99% natural with one ingredient that isn't natural.  If you are into masks with mostly natural ingredients and would like to try playing with mud on your face, then give this a try!  You will have a lot of fun doing it.  Just try not to scare anyone!

Keep Smiling!

Paulette

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.

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Top Five Facial Masks!

(Disclosure: this post contains a referral link)

I love facial masks! And in my books, nothing beats a well formulated and result proven mask.  I decided to round up all masks and do my top five facial masks for July!  So far this are the masks that have impressed me throughout the year!  These masks are great to use all year around and work well in hot and cold weather!  As an added treat the lovely and knowledgeable Diane Dalmasy over at My Fascination Street has decided to do a collaboration with me about about her top five facial masks!  Diane has great info on her site! Subscribe to her blog so you can stay tune to our up and coming further collaborations! 

Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask - $29.44 US

I don't even know where to beginning with this mask.  This by far has got to be my all time favorite.  Nothing I have used so far has been able to take this out of the number one spot!  This mask is literally 99% natural and organic.  It only has one ingredient that isn't natural, yet the rest completely is.   This mask is made up of dead sea mud plus other amazing ingredients like Organic Shea Butter, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Organic Jojoba Oil,  Eucalyptus Oil and other properties that are beneficial for the skin.  Every time I use this mask which is once a week, my face literally looks poreless right after.  It leaves it feeling conditioned as soon as I wash away the mud and there is no tight dry feeling afterwards. This has never irritated my face nor caused any sort of allergic reaction.  While it does dry to a hard consistency, however it washes off easily, effectively and you see the results right away.  I honestly look forward to using this mask every Monday night after washing my face.  I just love this mask and I sing its praises!  However, just one word of caution.  Because this mask is 99% natural and organic, many people have complained that it has spoil on them after a few weeks of opening it.  To avoid that happening, just stick it in your fridge.  I have had this mask for almost two months now and it is in prefect working order.  Moreover, since it comes right out my fridge and on to my face, it has a lovely cool feeling when drying!  I highly recommend this mask!  For a full review of this mask, click here!  This dead sea mud mask is good on all skin types!

Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Oil Absorbing Mask - $17.00 US

I just love anything Paula's Choice makes.  The reason is because she is one of the few people who actually took time to well formulate her products in order to show effective non-irritant results.  This mask works to remove excess oil from your skin without causing it to dry out.  The formula in this masks helps to draw out and dislodge blackheads and other impurities without stripping the skin of it's natural moisture.  This mask is a clay like formula that when it dries to a hard consistency, it doesn't feel like it's going to break your face.  This mask contains ingredients such as sea whip extract, kaolin, Salix alba extract, bisabolol, glycerin, and colloidal oatmeal to name a few.  This mask is actually worth trying out!  This oil adsorbing mask is good for oily to combination skin!

(To sweeten the deal, if you decide to buy this mask or any product from the Paula's Choice site, click here on my referral link to receive $10.00 off anything you buy over $15.00!  So with shipping in the US you should be able to buy this mask for $9.00 more or less! Also, Paula's Choice has a money back guarantee in case you don't like it.  If you ask me that's a great deal!)

Poppy Austin Moroccan Rhassoul Clay - $19.95 US

Poppy Austin is a company I just love.  I heard about them a year ago when I looking for a good quality but decent priced Argan Oil.  Upon looking in their product list, I noticed that they were selling rhassoul clay.  I had never heard of that product before so it intrigued me.  So, as you know me, I set out on my research to investigate this product.  Poppy Austin's Rhassoul Clay is 100% pure and naturally infused with mineral-rich properties.  Moroccan ghassoul lava clay is high in silica which makes it great as a detoxifying cleanser for your face, hair and body.  It also conditions after each use. It helps to reduce dryness on the skin, draw out impurities by unblocking pores, and improve skin elasticity.  I use this mask once a week on a Friday.  I mix this with my Poppy Austin rose water (or you can use filtered water) until its nice and soft.  I apply it to my face and let it sit for about 30 minutes.  Afterwards I wash it off and my face is cleaned, conditioned and feels ever so soft.  I really like this mask for it natural mineral rich properties and cleansing benefits.  You can also use this mask on your hair if you suffer from dandruff.  This mask is worth every penny and offers great quality at a decent price for the awesome size of the jar!  I highly recommend this mask! Rhassoul clay mask is good for all skin types!

  
Colleen Rothschild Clarifying Detox Mask - $48.00 US

Colleen Rothschild Clarifying Detox Mask is a charcoal mask that helps draw out impurities from the skin.  It also contains MicroSilver which helps to promotes clearer skin after some time of usage.  Glycolic Acid which helps to increases cellular turnover on the skin surface level and Vitamin C which is an antioxidant.  This mask comes a soft consistency like texture in the color black.  I have to admit when I first opened it, the black color threw me off.  However as we all know in the name of beauty we never judge and just go for it!  This mask dries to a soft hard texture if that even makes sense.  After about 10-15 minutes from the time of application, you are still able to move your face and smile without the mask cracking which I thought was great.  It washes off clean with no problem and I have to say leaves your skin absolutely radiant.  So far I have tried this detox mask and her radiant cleansing balm (click here to read that review) and have not been disappointed!  This detox mask is good for all skin types!      

Michael Todd True Organic Rose Petal Mask - $34.00 US

This was one of the first masks I ever used that wasn't a drugstore brand.  When I saw this masks and realized that it had 10% Glycolic Acid (AHA), Vitamin C and Rosa Damascene Distillate ingredients, I knew I had to try it!  This mask comes in an air tight pump that helps to keep the ingredients inside stabilized.  It dispenses the most silkiest clear gel I have ever seen.  It applies smoothly to your face and dries ever so soft.  After about 10-15 minutes you wash it off and you face looks and feel so alive and radiant!  While this does have a scent of roses, nonetheless it wasn't so strong that it was hard to manage.  Since this mask has 10% AHA it helps with cellular turnover on  your skins top layer.  AHA needs to stay on the skin long enough to cause a true effect.  So when you use cleanser with AHA they rarely do anything because they get washed off in seconds.  I enjoy this mask so much and still have it sitting on my skin vanity.  This is one mask that use on days I want to feel luxurious!

Please note that all the masks I mentioned above; when frequent usage it is important that you wear sunblock afterwards.  Many of the ingredients in these mask which cause the skin to become ultra sensitive in the sun and burn.  So avoid always apply an SPF 30 and up that offers board spectrum protection.  Remember proper skincare is an everyday thing and not just once in the morning and night.  This rose petal mask is good for dry skin!

Well there you have it, my top five favorite masks! Let me know what your top five facial masks are by tagging Diane and me at #topfivefacialmasks

I hope you enjoy them as well!

Keep Smiling!

Dayana

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