Cool Sculpting Facial and Body Massage: Detox and Smooth with Selfkaire Kairetool

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Cool Sculpting Facial and Body Massage: Detox and Smooth with Selfkaire Kairetool

I absolutely love the Kairetool Did by Selfkaire! I am in the midst of learning about the effects of Energy Healing and the power of connecting with your energy flow and stimulating massage and activating pressure points and meridians in your body is a key part of this practice. The Kairetool is a highly effective tool for activating these key areas and increasing your energy flow and vitality through throughout your entire body! I am just loving this Kairetool for use on my face but also for use on my body as part of my Daily Energy Routine! :)

While I have never tried cool sculpting, this tool is said to have similar results and can be done at-home for a fraction of the cost!

What is the Kairetool Dia by Selfkaire:

Selfkaire has a few styles of tools available. They even have tools with crystals! I want to try a crystal one next!!! I love using crystals for healing!

For this review, I was able to try out the Kairetool Dia. It is beautiful! There is no question this is a high quality took. It comes beautifully boxed. It is weighty if feel and is very cool to the touch. The design of the tool makes it easy to hold and manipulate.

It is a surgical-grade steel at-home tool, which is dual-sided with acupressure pins to target deep tissue. It can also be flipped over to use like a traditional facial roller to pat in skincare on both the face and body!

Here’s more information from Selfkaire about the tool and what it can do:

Daily use can help:

• Improve appearance of elasticity of the skin 
• Support circulation & lymphatic drainage 
• Ease muscle tension for face and body 
• Fully detox deep tissue (popularized juice cleanses can't)

Flip over to crystal/rounded side to help: 

• Reduce appearance of puffiness & fine lines 
• Pat in skincare to enhance absorption

Tips to get the most out of your Kairetool:

Here are some great tips that I learned while using the Kairetool:

• You can either use this directly on your bare skin or you can use over clothing. 
• For skincare, you can use it anytime in the day you feel like you need revitalization to a facial area or you can use after applying your skincare products to massage in products (like how you would use a stone roller tool). 
• For extra sensation and benefit, you can put in the fridge for a super cool feel to your Kairetool!

Overall, I absolutely love this Kairetool! Actually, I want to get another one (like a crystal one) as I would like to have them all over my house, in handbag, etc. That way, I will use it even more often! I feel like these massage points can be targeted throughout the day for maximum results for circulation, vitality, healing, and renewal of your skin and body! 

Plus, Kairetool offers a 90-day satisfaction guarentee and a lifetime warranty. So, there really is no risk with trying this item out! It is expensive. However, you can tell by the feel and design of this product that it is a very high quality tool that should last indefinately! Right now, the crystal tools are 25% off for Mothers Day on the website! :) 

Affiliate Link

Fabulous Sun Protection: TIZO3 Mineral Sunscreen and Lip Protection!

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Fabulous Sun Protection: 

TIZO3 Mineral Sunscreen and Lip Protection!

I am such an advocate of good sun protection! As many of you know, I am absolutely religious about applying SPF and practicing good sun saftey with seeking the shade, wearing sunglasses, and wearing hats and protective clothing. Not only do I have a family history of skin cancer, but also I have lost a dear friend to Melanonma. So, I know first hand how dangerous the sun can be. I inherited my Dad's fair cancer-prone skin. So, I need to be extra careful. Plus, I burn easily and want to prevent premature aging. There are just so many reasons to protect yourself from the sun. 

Finding a good SPF can be tricky! There are so many available: many brands and many different types of SPF protection. Personally, I prefer mineral sunscreens for my face. I will wear both chemical and physical for the body. However, I do seem to have the best results with mineral sunscreens for my face. Mineral sunscreens provide a physical blocker (usually titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and some are just zinc oxide). I have also had decent results with combination sunscreens that contain both mineral and chemical filters. As much as I love how gentle mineral protection is, the downside is that it tends to leave a white cast. So, often I look for tinted mineral sunscreens for the face. This neutralizes the white cast and lessens the need for makeup!

Whether it’s at the beach, on the trail or at the office, your SPF should be your BFF – going with you wherever you go. Not only is sun exposure the number one contributor to skin aging, but more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined.

TIZO3® Facial Mineral Sunscreen with SPF 40 is a great option for your first line of defense. This tinted mineral sunscreen offers superior silky sun protection that boasts a non-greasy matte finish. This allows TIZO3® to double as the perfect primer - layering comfortably and undetected beneath makeup.

I did a double take when I first read the package...wondering, is this a moisturizer or a SPF? Then I tried the product and really find it to be unique! It is labeled as a Mineral Sunscreen Facial Primer. It contains a tint and it really has that thick and somewhat slick feel of a makeup primer. The tint is just a tad too dark for me. However, the coverage is sheer. So, it is workable for my fair skin under makeup. Now, I do not tend to use much makeup. Really, I just use either a light dusting of a powder foundation or a light dusting of a powder mineral sunscreen. So, the combination of the TIZO3 under the powder seems to work just right!

How do I use? 

• After washing my face in the mornings, I always apply a light hyaluronic acid-based gel moisturizer or serum onto my wet skin (my Holy Grail is Neutrogena HydroBoost Extra Dry Skin, however, there are others that I use and love, too!). 
• Then I dab a small drop of a Vit C Serum (my current fav is the Kiehl's Powerful Strength Line Reducing Concentrate). 
• Next, I apply the TIZO3 Mineral Sunscreen Facial Primer SPF 40. The feel is thick and smooth, like a primer. It is not greasy and does a great job filling in pores and smoothing fine lines. It really does make an excellent base for makeup! 
• Then I just apply my makeup as usual. Usually this means concealer under eyes and over redness around nose and on chin followed by a light dusting of powder foundation or powder mineral sunscreen (I love the Jane Iredale Power-Me Dry Mineral Sunscreen) or sometimes a BB Cream instead.  

Why TIZO?

• Protects skin with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, the #1 and #2 rated sunscreen filters
• Universally flattering tint blends into varying skin tones
• Preps skin with a primer-like texture, creating a smooth canvas for makeup
• Photostable and remains water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
• Free of chemical sunscreens, dyes, fragrances, oils and preservatives

I am also enjoying TIZO Tinted Lip Protection with SPF 45. My lips are soooo prone to burning. Lip SPF really needs to be applied even more often than your facial sunscreen. It is honestly hard to find mineral lip sunscreens. So, I am super excited to have this one from TIZO. It has a nude tint and a kiwi lime flavor. It works great and is water resistant! 

If you are looking for a fantastic mineral sunscreen that does double duty as a makeup primer and tinted moisturizer, be sure to check out TIZO!!! 

Affiliate Link

Hydrate and Protect with Guinot: Age Sun Face and Crème Hydra Summum

 Affiliate Link Press Sample 

Guinot: Hydrate and Protect Age Sun Face and Crème Hydra Summum

What are the two biggest essentials in any anti-aging skincare routine? A great SPF and a great moisturizer. Your skin needs hydration daily. Plus, sun damage is the biggest contributor to the aging of our skin. So, you absolutely can't have an anti-aging skincare routine without also providing daily SPF protection for your skin. It is never too late to start, if you are not using a facial SPF daily, start now, and you will thank me (and yourself) later! 

Guinot has some amazing luxury new releases that are fantastic additions to any good skincare routine. I adore their luxurious Crème Hydra Summum for moisture and their brand new Guinot Age Sun Face is one of the only sunscreens that I know of that protect against both harmful UVA and UVB rays AND blue light-induced damage! 

Want to hear more? Find out all of the details about each of these amazing products below. :) 

Guinot Age Sun Face –

Anti-aging sun cream for the face (and body) SPF 30

Guinot’s new Sun Logic available in SPF 20 and SPF 30 is an anti-aging sunscreen that protects the skin not only from harmful UVA and UVB rays, but also from blue light rays (such as TVs, computers, and mobile phones). Most people don't even realize that blue light-induced damage is even happening! I know that I honestly wasn't fully aware of that. So, this product is great for keeping skin safe both inside and when outside at the pool or beach or just in the backyard. 

This product combines anti-aging ingredients (extracted from witch hazel leaf) with broad-spectrum sun protection to fight the effects of photo-aging by preventing sunburns and preserving the skin. Melanin in the cream (derived from vegetables) absorbs blue light from electronic devices to protect against the light-induced skin damage that most people don’t even realize is happening.

For use: Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes prior to sun exposure. It takes skin about 15 minutes to absorb the sunscreen. It is recommended to apply sunscreen at least every two hours (but reapply immediately after being in the water or after excessive sweating).

Key Ingredients:

• Solar Filters: Consists of UVA and UVB filters (broad spectrum)
• Vegetal DNA: Contains wheat and seaweed and protects skin against outside aggressors. It absorbs the harmful effects of the UV rays to protect skin cells from damage.
• Elastoprotectin: Extracted from Hamamelis leaves (witch hazel leaf), which helps prevent breakdown of tissues, elastoprotectin is a protein that protects elastin fibers to help prevent wrinkles and skin slackening. It protects from photo-aging and sunburn and uses arnica to protect elastin and superficial skin layers.
• Melanin: Derived from vegetables, melanin absorbs the blue light that we are exposed to from electronic devices. It naturally contains Lutiene, an ingredient known to protect the skin from blue light and against light-induced skin damage. It helps fight premature aging from free radicals and the sun.

Price: 

SPF 20: $45

SPF 30: $43

Guinot’s Crème Hydra Summum-

Anti-aging through hydration

Guinot’s Crème Hydra Summum is a facial moisturizer that uses intense hydration to fight the effects of aging, such as wrinkles and dull skin. Guinot’s own Hydralogic Complex creates a barrier to lock in moisture and helps to improve circulation for a bright and youthful glow. Hyaluronic acid, a tried and true ingredient in many Guinot products, enables skin to retain more moisture.  

For use: Apply daily morning and/or evening to the face after cleansing thoroughly.

Key Ingredients:

• Hydralogic Complex: Hydration complex – Aquasilanol: Helps reinforce the structure of the skin barrier while helping increase the skin’s capacity to store water, and restores the flow of water
• Anti-ageing molecule – Hyaluronic acid: Enables the skin to increase its water storage capacity considerably

Price: $95

Products are available at more than 1,000 Guinot spas in the U.S.

Affiliate Link

Get Scrubby with LATHER's NEW Chia Seed & Passion Fruit Exfoliating Gel

Affiliate Link Press Sample

Get Scrubby with LATHER's NEW Chia Seed & Passion Fruit Exfoliating Gel:

I just love a good scrub! So, I am very excited to tell you guys about this awesome new product from one of my favorite natural skincare brands: LATHER! 

LATHER's NEW Chia Seed & Passion Fruit Exfoliating Gel:

This super gentle exfoliator is a non-foaming and moisturizing facial scrub that was designed for normal-to-dry or mature skin. I am happy to report that while I have neither "mature" skin (well, maybe I do as I am in my early 40s) nor normal-to-dry (I am currently combo-oily), this product still works fabulously for me! Actually, I really adore using it! 

First of all, OMG...the scent! I absolutely love the refreshingly fruity scent of this scrub. Plus, the gel texture combined with the scrubbiness of the chia seeds really gives an awesome sensation when you are gently massaging it on your skin. It really gives you an amazing spa-like facial treatment right in your own bathroom. 

The Skinny:

Here is the scoop, in a nutshell, about this awesome New Chia Seed & Passion Fruit Exfoliating Gel:

• This is a gel based, non-foaming exfoliator
• “Physical” exfoliating agents include passion fruit seed powder and jojoba beads
• Also contains tropical fruit enzymes for additional exfoliation.
• Chia seed oil moisturizes, soothes and protects skin with omega-3 fatty acids  
• Price is $29.00 / 4 oz.
• Available beginning July 1 online at www.lather.com or in LATHER retail stores 

How I Use:

LATHER recommends that the Chia Seed & Passion Fruit Exfoliating Gel be used about 2-3 times a week. For my somewhat sensitive skin, I find that 2 times a week is just perfect. It gives me a fantastic boost of exfoliation without being "too much" for my skin. To use, I first cleanse my face with a gentle cleanser and leave it wet. Then I apply a small dollop of the Chia Seed & Passion Fruit Exfoliating Gel to my entire face (avoiding eye area). I very gently massage the product on my skin using sweeping circular motions. Then I let the product sit on my face for about a minute or two as a "mask" before rinsing (I like doing this with enzyme-based exfoliating products to allow the enzymes to do some extra work on my skin). 

My Results:

I am so pleased with the results of this amazing Chia Seed & Passion Fruit Exfoliating Gel from LATHER! I feel like my skin is so soft and refined from using this product consistently. Plus, I also love the instant hydration and smoothness it brings to my skin right after rinsing it off. I feel like the extra exfoliation also keeps my skin clear and bright. Not to mention, the gorgeous scent and the feel of the gentle exfoliators really makes this a spa-quality treatment right in my own bathroom. This product is a total treat to use! 

LATHER fans, what else do you love from this line? I have only begun to explore LATHER skincare and would love to know your recommendations!

Affiliate Link

My Skin Loves: Avon's ANEW Clinical Extra Strength Retexturizing Peel

 Affiliate Link Press Sample 

My Skin Loves: Avon's ANEW Clinical Extra Strength Retexturizing Peel 

It is time for an update in the My Skin Loves blog series! This series is where I share my most recent favorite skincare items. Now ya'll may know that I am a bit of a skincare junkie. However, many times I try things and they are just okay, or are nothing to really rave about. Often I have to move on to other skincare items that I want to try for review. Well, the items in this series are items that I would repurchase over and over and are items that I am going to keep in my skincare rotations (or items that I will return to after other product testing for upcoming reviews). 

Peel Pads:

I have a thing for peel pads. Seriously! They work wonders for my somewhat acne-prone, early 40s, combination skin. Using a good peel pad, like Avon's ANEW Clinical Extra Strength Retexturizing Peel will give my skin an awesome glow, help clear up any blemishes and prevent new ones, and will make my skin super smooth and soft, while also diminishing fine lines. Now, who doesn't like that?!?!

Avon ANEW Clinical Extra Strength Retexturizing Peel:
ANEW’s most advanced peel is now available in a in an extra strength formulation. This one-step peel pad gives you all the strength of an in-office dermatological procedure without having to leave your home, delivering a high-performance anti-aging solution without drastic measures. In a clinical test, 100% of women showed improvement in skin’s texture and photodamage, and 97% reported an improvement in fine lines.* Retails for $25 for 30 pads.

There is no question, this is a strong peel! However, even with my sensitive skin, I am able to use it. I think the trick is to find a balance with your skin and use it as often as you can without overusing it and irritating your skin. For me, I can use this peel about once a week (for comparison, with other peels that are not as strong, I can use them 2-3x a week).

Key Ingredients:
This peel contains a complex of five acids including AHAs and salicylic acid. 

How I use:
So, I use this peel once a week in the evenings after washing my skin. I simply swipe a peel pad over my face and neck. For a few minutes, I feel the tingling action of the peel working. While I can certainly feel it, it is not uncomfortable. I then follow up with a rich night cream and no other treatment products. Note: You must wear a good SPF during the day when treating your skin with a peel! So, be sure to not forget that!!! ;) I always wake up the next morning with super smooth and refreshed skin after using a peel pad the night before. Consistent use keeps my skin clear and makes fine lines less apparent. Over time it fades discolorations and spots. I absolutely adore this peel and will continue to use it!

Have you explored Avon's ANEW skincare line? I am very impressed so far and would love to explore it further. So, please let me know if you have any recommendations!

Thanks for reading!
XOXO!!!

Affiliate Link

Introducing: RoC® Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Chest, Neck, and Face Cream

 Press Sample Affiliate Link Blogger Ambassador
#DecolletageEntourage #gotitfree

New Product Alert!

Introducing: RoC® Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Chest, Neck, and Face Cream with Broad Spectrum SPF 30!

Have you ever felt like something was missing from your daily skincare routine? Well, RoC® has a new product to help with that! :) 

As a RoC® Skincare Ambassador, I get to share the all of the newest brand news and new product launches with you! Over the years, I have become such a big fan and supporter of the brand. I am super excited about their brand new launch: RoC® Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Chest, Neck, and Face Cream with Broad Spectrum SPF 30.

Raise your hand if you neglect your neck and chest area (me! ducking head in mock-shame). Seriously though, I only remember to apply products to my neck area about 50% of the time. I blame my busy schedule and sometimes rushed beauty routine. Typically, I remember to apply products to the neck and chest area if I know I am going to be in the sun and need a SPF product for sun protection. However, my neck and chest area need more TLC than that! Often, the neck and chest area is the very first area of your body to reveal your true age. As a woman in her early 40s, the time is now! I need to prevent aging in this area before it is too late. This is why I am so excited about this new launch from RoC®!

I know that I am not alone. The researchers at RoC® concur. Many women forget to treat an often neglected area of the body...the decolletage (neck and chest). In fact, 70% of women say signs of aging on their neck are more noticeable than around their face, yet only 9% use anti-aging products specifically designed for this area. 

Here is my neck (and my gorgeous new Lizzie Fortunato Necklace!) after using the Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Chest, Neck, and Face Cream with Broad Spectrum SPF 30 for a few weeks. Interested in learning more about the necklace? Be sure to check it out and other designs on LizzieFortunato.com. This piece is a stunning gold-plated brass collar with semi-precious black onyx cobochon inlay.

RoC®'s new Multi Correxion 5-in-1 Chest, Neck, and Face Cream with Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is exactly the product I need in my everyday routine to bring neck and chest skincare to the forefront of my mind. Using a product specifically for that area is all the reminder that I need to pamper that skin everyday with not only amazing anti-aging ingredients but also the SPF protection that I need. I am so super excited about this product! I have long been a fan of the original RoC® Multi Correxion products. So, I am super pumped about this line addition!

Celebrate International Women's Day with L'Occitane's Shea Butter Balm! Plus, NEW Shea Products!

Affiliate Link Press Sample 

L'Occitane has some amazing new products! If you love Shea Butter as a skincare ingredient, then you should certainly check these out. In the cold of Winter, nothing really hydrates and revives your skin quite like shea butter. It really is a wonder ingredient! So, lets discuss these new shea-butter infused releases: The Limited Edition Shea Butter Balm, Shea Butter Comforting Oil, and Shea Butter Soothing Fluid.

Celebrate International Women's Day with L'Occitane and their Limited Edition Shea Butter Balm:

International Women’s Day is on March 8 and in honor of this day, L’Occitane is releasing a limited edition Shea Butter Balm to raise awareness for women’s entrepreneurship worldwide. 

Helping Women through Shea Butter Production:

Each balm will retail for $6 and 100% of proceeds will finance NGO projects for women’s leadership in Burkina Faso. L’Occitane’s relationship with the women of Burkina Faso goes back over thirty years and the connection is Shea butter. For the women of this region, harvesting Shea is more than just a job; it is special, symbolic tradition to pick the nuts off the Karite tree and churn them into the paste-like butter. Today, there are more than 17,000 women employed in the production of this miracle ingredient through fair trade cooperatives funded by L’Occitane. To build on this commitment, L’Occitane also promotes women’s entrepreneurship in the region by offering literacy training, microcredit loans and savings programs.

Limited Edition Shea Butter Ultra Soft Balm:

What a cute little tin with this amazing multi-tasking product inside! The small screw-top tin is super portable. You can toss this in your purse for on-the-go easily! The Shea Butter is exactly like the name states...ultra soft! Unlike other 100% Shea Butters that I have used in the past that are waxy and hard, this shea butter has a nice soft balm consistancy that makes it easy to use and spread. Just dip your fingers in and smooth this miracle product onto your skin. Plus, this Shea Butter has a lovely soft baby powder-like scent that is super nice!

Shea butter itself is such a miracle-working product! There are countless ways to use it! 

Here are just a few:

• Use as a lip balm to deeply moisturize
• Mix with your hair conditioner for a deep, nourishing hair treatment
• Apply to fading scars and burns to speed up healing time
• Drop a few tablespoons in a hot bath for a moisturizing soak
• Rub into chest when you have a cold for soothing comfort  
• Use as a cuticle balm for dry and rough or cracked cuticles
• Smooth onto legs, arms, and any exposed skin to give the skin a lovely natural shine

How do you use Shea Butter in your beauty routine? Now that I have this little tin of multi-tasking Shea Butter, I am dying to learn more uses! Be sure to check out L'Occitane's Limited Edition Shea Butter Ultra Soft Balm! It supports such a great cause! :)

L'Occitane Shea Butter Comforting Oil and Shea Butter Soothing Fluid:
But wait, there is more! L'Occitane recently released these two shea-infused skincare products. These are the newest additions to L'Occcitane's best-selling Shea Butter skincare line. These products were formulated to alleviate dry and sensitive skin while providing protection from the elements and environmental skin stressors. These formulas are so soothing! The ingredients are pure. So, these products are ideal for sensitive skin (like mine!).

Shea Butter Comforting Oil:
Lets start with my favorite, the Shea Butter Comforting Oil. In the past year or so, I have become obsessed with using facial oils. After many years of avoiding oil like the plague because of having somewhat acne-prone skin, I have come to realize that a few drops of oil in my daily skincare routine can bring such radiance to my skin! This oil is so soothing and hydrating. My skin just drinks it in and looks so radiant after application! I use oils like this just as I would a serum. I apply after cleansing (and toning if I tone, I don't always) and before my moisturizer or sunscreen. I just apply about a drop to my fingertips and then tap and smooth onto my skin. This lightweight dry-finish oil sinks right in and does not leave me looking greasy. My only critique is that the pump style container makes it hard to get just one drop. I would prefer if this product had a dropper top. I adore this oil and highly recommend it!

Shea Butter Soothing Fluid:
This Shea Butter Soothing Fluid is a product to replace your usual moisturizer. It is enriched with 5% Shea Butter for amazing hydration. It also contains rose hip oil and anti-inflammatory calendula oil (extracted from marigolds). This is a great moisturizer for dehydrated skin! It leaves my skin feeling super soft and hydrated. It pairs very nicely with the Shea Butter Comforting Oil.

All of these new Shea Butter-enriched products are great additions to a Winter skincare routine! Which of these items tempts you?

Thanks for reading!
XOXO

Affiliate Link

My Skin Loves: Kiehl's NEW Iris Extract Activating Treatment Essence

Affiliate Link Press Sample

It is time for another update in my "My Skin Loves" blog series! This series is reserved for the "best of the best" in skincare! As ya'll know, skincare is my passion and the driving force behind my creation of this blog. Having combination skin that is prone to sensitivity issues, breaking out, and battling issues like dark circles and early signs of aging led me to a perpetual search for the best skincare out there! Hence my blog was created to share my experiences and let my readers know what works for me! During my quest for finding awesome skincare, I have certainly fallen in love with certain products and certain brands. My "My Skin Loves" blog series is reserved for the standout skincare products that I try from my favorite lines! 

My Skin:

Before diving into this review, lets talk a bit more about my skin. It always helps to know a product reviewers frame of reference when reading a review. :) My skin type is combination. I am normal-oily (t-zone only) in the warmer months and normal-dry in the colder months. While I don't breakout very often, I do consider myself acne-prone. I need to be very selective with products in order to not experience breakouts. I am in my early 40s. So, anti-aging skincare is a must! I do not have any major wrinkles yet. However, I do have fine lines that crop up around my eyes and my mouth. These lines are more apparent when my skin is dehydrated. Also, my skin is sensitive. I am somewhat prone to redness and irritation bumps (if I over-exfoliate or use a product that irritates). Last, but not least, I have very dark under eye circles. I blame heredity, allergies, and general lack of sleep for these. Sigh!

To find out more about Kiehl's NEW Iris Extract Activating Treatment Essence and how I like using it, please click "read more" below!

Pores Be Gone! dr. brandt skincare PoreDermabrasion Pore Perfecting Exfoliator

 Press Sample Affiliate Link Blogger Ambassador/iFabboMember

Pores Be Gone! Introducing dr. brandt skincare's PoreDermabrasion Pore Perfecting Exfoliator:

Oh pores, we all have them...but how do we make them look less apparent? Their appearance can be minimized when they are super clear, clean, and your skin is refined. A good skincare routine which includes a deep action exfoliator is the key! 

About dr. brandt skincare: (from iFabbo and dr. brandt skincare)

dr. brandt skincare is the natural evolution of Dr. Brandt's professional dermatology practice and clinical research. In an industry rife with out-sized claims and overblown promises, dr. brandt skincare will become first in the minds of women who desire the most beautiful, youthful skin possible--not because they market better, but because they develop better products!

My Skin:

Before diving into more product details and my review, lets talk about my skin type so that you can know where I am coming from with this review. I have classic combo skin: normal-oily in the warmer months and normal-dry when it gets cold. My skin also fluxuates hormonally. I am a bit more oily and prone to breakouts in my t-zone. However, good skincare keeps breakouts at bay. I am in my early 40s. So, I am super interested in anti-aging skincare. My skin is also somewhat sensitive and prone to redness if I am not careful with my product selection.

dr. brandt skincare's PoreDermabrasion Pore Perfecting Exfoliator:

dr. brandt PoreDermabrasion is a unique professional grade physical and chemical exfoliator and pore perfector in one. No matter how old you are or what type of skin you have, enlarged pores are a huge concern. Shrink them down to the vanishing point while smoothing and evening skin's texture. 

Key Benefits of dr. brandt's PoreDermabrasion Pore Perfecting Exfoliator:

• Refines the appearance of pores
• Deep cleans pores
• Smooths skin texture

How I Use:

This product is super easy to use! I use it at night as part of my evening skincare routine 1-2 times per week. I use it after washing my face with a gentle cleanser. Then I just leave my skin damp. I apply a small amount of this product with my hands and gently massage it onto my skin (using very, very light pressure) for about 1 minute. Then, I allow the product to sit on my skin like a facial mask for about 1-2 more minutes. This allows the chemical exfoliator time to work on your skin. Then, I rinse well with tepid water and gently pat my skin dry with a towel. I follow up with the rest of my skincare routine: serum and moisturizer and/or facial oil. 

My Results:

After using this product a few weeks, I am really impressed with the clarity of my skin and the clearness of my pores. Are my pores diminished? Well, probably. The difference is not super noticeable in size. However, I am very impressed with how clear and soft my skin is. Overall, I really love using this product. It feels like a "spa experience" when I use it, lol! Plus, it keeps my skin clear and the deep exfoliation allows for better penetration of my anti-aging skincare products. That is a huge plus! Overall, a great product!

 

Where to buy:

Follow this link to share and save! Product ships free with standard shipping. X2 loyalty points with purchase of this product. If you share with friends and they come back to drbrandskincare.com, you can both save up to $10 on your next purchase!    

#PoreDermabrasion 

Affiliate Link

Holiday Giveaway and Skincare Tips from RoC: Win a basket FULL of products and a $200 Visa Giftcard!!!

 Giftcard Affiliate Link Blogger Ambassador

I am so excited to bring you another Holiday Giveaway!!! This one is super special: a HUGE basket choc-full of full-size RoC Skincare *and* a $200 Visa Giftcard giveaway! 'Tis the season of Giving! I am sure that one of my lucky readers is going to be thrilled to not only have some fabulous new skincare plus a giftcard to spend! :)

This Giveaway Gift Basket contains many of my favorite products from RoC!
Inside the Basket:

• RETINOL CORREXION® Deep Wrinkle Night Cream: This rich cream is formulated to use at night to work on your wrinkles while you sleep. This product gets great results and contains a very powerful Retinol formula.

• RETINOL CORREXION® Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer: Yes, you actually can use Retinol during the day (did you know that?). This product is the best of both worlds...Retinol *and* SPF! :)

• RETINOL CORREXION® Deep Wrinkle Serum: This is a Retinol formula serum! It works great under makeup because it smooths out your skin. It works on fine lines and increases skin's smoothness and firmness.

• RETINOL CORREXION® Eye Cream: This non-greasy eye cream works on dark circles and puffiness.

• RETINOL CORREXION® MAX Resurfacing System: If you are looking to dive into Retinol use, this system is the way to do it. It contains the perfect products to jump-start your Retinol routine: an anti-wrinkle treatment and a resurfacing serum! The products work to even out your skin tone, diminish fine lines, and fight wrinkles.

• RETINOL CORREXION® Sensitive Night Cream: If you are looking to start Retinol but are concerned because you have sensitive skin, then this product just might be for you. Also, it is a great starting product for anyone wanting to ease their way into Retinol use. It is a milder formula which reduces the risk of irritation.

• RETINOL CORREXION® Sensitive Eye Cream: Like the Sensitive Night Cream, this is a great starting point for Retinol use in the eye area or for anyone with a sensitive eye area. It helps fight fine lines and wrinkles with reduced risk of irritation from the Retinol.

• MULTI CORREXION® 5 in 1 Restoring Night Cream: Oh this product is so fabulous! I really enjoy using this night cream! It contains RoC's HEXINOL™ Technology which fights discoloration, sagging, dullness, dryness, and wrinkles. I love the beautiful texture of this cream. My skin just drinks it up! It really feels like a high end face cream.

• MULTI CORREXION® Eye Cream: Here is another staple in my skincare routine! The formula contains RoC's breakthrough HEXINOL™ Technology to fight dullness, fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, and dull tone. Yes, please!

• MULTI CORREXION® 5 in 1 Daily Moisturizer: This is one of my very favorite daytime moisturizers! This formula contains RoC's awesome HEXINOL™ Technology to fight aging while also protecting you from the sun with SPF!

• MAX Resurfacing Cleanser: This is a great everyday cleanser that leaves you feeling fresh and clean while giving you some gentle exfoliation. I like to use this in my morning shower. The light exfoliation allows your products to absorb better!

• Daily Resurfacing Disks: These are pre-moistened everyday cleansing dics. What an easy way to cleanse your face and give yourself some good exfoliation! They are gentle enough to use every day. I really enjoy using these!

To hear some great tips from RoC's Dermatologist and to enter the Giveaway, please click "read more" below!

My Skin Loves: Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant

Press  Sample Affiliate Link Blogger Ambassador

Raise your hand if you love exfoliation. Me, me, me (hand raised and waving)!!! For so many years I neglected to exfoliate. Well, shame on me! I was missing out. Over the past few years, I have really discovered the benefits of really good exfoliation. As a woman now in my 40s (OMG, how did I get to be 40 already? lol), good exfoliation is more important than ever. Not only does exfoliation keep my skin clear, it also has a brightening effect on my skin and it seems to be holding wrinkles at bay as well! 

My Skin:

Before jumping into this review any futher, let me give you a bit more background on my skin.  I have classic combo skin (normal-oily in Spring/Summer and normal-dry in Fall/Winter). I get everything from dry patches to oily spots depending on the fluctuation of my skin. I just turned 40 a few months ago. So, I am *very* interested in anti-aging skincare. I have no major lines or wrinkles yet (whew!). I want to fend those off for as long as I can! So far, I just have fine lines that crop up around my eyes (especially when my skin is dry). I do occasionally break out. Not all the time, but I do get breakouts still. Typically, breakouts are on my chin and occasionally by my nose. I have a few dark spots that arrived with my pregnancy. Luckily, these are gradually fading (but still bothersome). My biggest skincare complaint? My very dark under eye circles. I have hereditary dark circles plus allergies and a general lack of sleep. So, my poor eye area looks haggard! Finding good eye creams and concealers is one of the main reasons I am into skincare and got into beauty blogging! ;)

I recently added an awesome exfoliating product to my skincare routine: Dermalogica's Daily Mircrofoliant. This product has been around for quite some time now and seems to have a bit of a cult following. I actually remember trying a small sample of it years ago and wish that I had started using it regularly back then! I have been using this Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant for a few weeks now and am completely obsessed with it!

Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant:

This is such a unique product. Believe me, I have a ton of products in my skincare arsenal and in my regular skincare routine...and none of these products is even remotely similar to this product. Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant is in a category by itself: it is a powder exfoliant that you use after you wash your face. What an interesting way to exfoliate!

To find out more about this amazing product, please click "read more" below!

Scrub, Scrub, Scrub! Adovia Exfoliating Facial Salts

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Adovia Exfoliating Facial Salts:

Looking for the most basic scrub ever? You may want to consider Adovia's Exfoliating Facial Salts. These are pure salts that you can use for facial and body exfoliation. Sometimes something so simple is effective...you just need to use these *very* gently because using a salt as a scrub is a very, very strong exfoliant on your skin. 

This jar of salt is HUGE! 12.3 oz of fine grain loose Dead Sea salt. Again, these are not mixed with anything. It is 100% Dead Sea salt. Actually, the jar is packed so full that product spilled out when I opened it. 

As a Facial Scrub:

The concept is simple...you can either use the salt directly on wet/freshly cleansed skin or mix with your favorite facial cleanser to give it an exfoliating boost. I find that it is a bit too abrasive for my sensitive skin when I use it as pure salt directly on my skin. So, I prefer to mix a very tiny amount into my usual cleanser. There is no question that this is a very strong scrub that will very effectively exfoliate your skin. I just caution you to use it very gently! Just lightly move your fingers across your skin with the scrub granules. With my sensitive skin, I can only use this about once a week (and even so, I need to take caution to "scrub" very, very gently). 

As a Body Scrub:

For my sensitive skin, I feel that this product is better suited, for me, as a body scrub. Actually, I adore using this for the body! I like to self-tan. So, good body exfoliation is something that I do in the shower every few days. Just add a bit of these salts to your regular shower gel to turn it into a super-effective body scrub!

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.

Happy Birthday Nyakio: Nyakio Celebrates the Brand's First Anniversary

Affiliate Link Press Samples

Happy Birthday Nyakio! 

Nyakio is a brand that I have come to know, trust, and enjoy using in this past year. One of the products from this line has been a part of my rotation of routine products for awhile (the fabulous Hydrating Face Oil with Kola Nut) and a few other items are new additions to my skin and body routine. The products are soothing and gentle while also being luxurious to use. I highly recommend checking this line out if you haven't already! This brand just celebrated its first "birthday". So, I thought that I would share some of my favorites from Nyakio. :)

About Nyakio Kamoche Grieco, Brand Founder:
Nyakio Kamoche Grieco, the brand’s founder and namesake, created the brand to pay homage to her family’s heritage and share their beauty secrets, and also to fill a gap in the marketplace, bringing the timeless beauty traditions and sophistication of Africa to women everywhere. Nyakio is a first generation American of Kenyan descent from a family of medicine men, farmers and educators.

What I am loving from Nyakio:

• Hydrating Face Oil with Kola Nut: We all know that face oils are all the buzz right now in skincare...for good reason! If you are into facial oils or possibly just looking to try one, you should scope this one out. I have had really wonderful results with it. Just a few drops of this luxurious non-greasy and fragranced oil leaves your skin so hydrated and soft. A light, non-greasy fusion of African Kola Nut, Ximenia Oil, Chamomile Oil and Trichilia Oil that invigorates and hydrates for 12 hours. Retails for $49.00.

• Hydrating Eye Cream with Kola Nut: This is a great basic eye cream. It is gentle and hydrating. It feels non-greasy and sinks in quickly to the eye area. I feel that it helps to plump my skin and makes my fine lines (due to dryness) less noticeable. It also provides a nice base for concealer.  With African Kola Nut, the Miracle Oil, Marula, Trichilia Oil and Honey to help relieve and hydrate dry lips. This unique fusion also provides superb antioxidant benefits, leaving lips immediately comforted and soft. Retails for $20.00

• Hydrating Lip Balm with Kola Nut: OMG! This lip balm smells soooooo good! It has a cocoa-butter type scent. It is very thick and slick and instantly hydrates my lips. Also, the formula is long lasting. So, I feel that it protects my lips well. This is now what I use at night before bed to moisturize my lips while I sleep. I totally love it (and I am picky about lip products because my lips are so dry). Totally recommend this balm! Infused with African Kola Nut, the Miracle Oil, Marula, Trichilia Oil and Honey to help relieve and hydrate dry lips. This unique fusion also provides superb antioxidant benefits, leaving lips immediately comforted and soft. Retails for $20.00.

So far, I have really loved everything I have tried from Nyakio! I hope to explore the line further. I really want to try the Kenyan Coffee Body Scrub and the Giant Fig Body Cream soon!

Treats for Your Skin: Pixi's Glow Tonic, Michael Todd's Cranberry Antiox, and LUSH's Tea Tree Water!

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Current Favorite Toners with LUSH

After doing without toner for years (I am not sure why?), I have rediscovered using toners after cleansing and am fully hooked! There is just something so refreshing about using a toner! Now that I have gotten used to using a toner again, my skincare routine does not seem complete without it!

Now, there are many different types of toners on the market. Toners that clarify and target breakout-prone skin by refining pores and disinfecting the skin, toners that contain AHAs or BHAs to exfoliate the skin, and hydrating toners with antioxidants and other anti-aging ingredients. Personally, I like all of the above. One of my biggest tips when it comes to skincare is to give your skin what it needs...and what it needs might be different depending on the time of year or even the particular day. Example: During my recent pregnancy, my skin got quite oily and breakout prone: so I discovered and fell in love with a toner that disinfected my skin and reduced my oil and breakouts. 

Here are a few of my new favorite toners in current rotation in my skincare routine. They are all very different...yet, all very great! An Exfoliating Toner: Pixi's Glow Tonic, An Anti-Blemish Clarifying Toner: LUSH's Tea Tree Water, and a Hydrating/Anti-Aging Toner: Michael Todd's Cranberry Antiox Toner. To find out a bit more about each toner, please click "read more" below.

"Beat the Heat" with Icy Cools and LIFT LAB: Review and Giveaway!!!

Affiliate Link Press Sample

Do you need a break from the heat? Get some refreshment with Lift Lab's Lift & Fix and Icy Cools!!! :)

With temperatures soaring into the 80s, we’re already feeling the heat—and redoubling our efforts to protect our skin against the forces of nature.  During the long, hot summer exposure to harmful UV rays, intense heat and wind can result in inflammation, causing damage that can step up the skin’s natural aging process. To reinforce the protection of your sunscreen and counteract the damaging effects of UV exposure après-sun, start with a pump or two of LIFTLAB LIFT & FIX™ High Potency Solution after cleansing—all the more cooling, refreshing and effective when chilled in the fridge!

Lightweight and highly concentrated, this breakthrough treatment is formulated to strengthen the skin’s barrier to help heal redness and sensitivity as it helps to protect against other environmental aggressors such as smog and pollution.  Applied icy cold after sun exposure, LIFTLAB LIFT & FIX™ also calms irritation, offers redness relief and enhances healing.  Anti-redness ingredients in this high-tech anti-inflammatory formula include Abyssine 657, NAB Arnica Extract and Sym Glucan. Osilift provides instant firming action.

To find out more about how I like LIFTLAB's Lift & Fix and Icy Cools's White Ice, please keep reading. The Giveaway entry form is at the end of the post. Click "read more" below!

January Labs: Natural Skincare for Sensitive Skin

Do you have sensitive skin and love natural skincare products? If so, this review is just for you!

About January Labs:
January labs is a new natural product line. January Labs was founded on the idea that skincare does not need to be complicated! The products are formulated without any harmful or unnatural ingredients. They contain skin-loving ingredients such as enzymes, antioxidants, and essential oils. January Labs products are sulfate-free, paraben-free, vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, petrolatum/mineral-oil free, and packaged in recyclable material.

January Labs products are…

• Sulfate-FREE

• Paraben-FREE

• Petrolatum/ Mineral Oil-FREE

• DEA/TEA-FREE

• Phthalate-FREE

• Packaged using recyclable material

• Vegan

• Cruelty-FREE

• Free of artificial fragrances

•  Gluten-FREE

• Formulated with advanced enzymes, antioxidants

My Skin:
I have sensitive combo skin. In the warmer months, it leans towards normal or normal to oily (just in t-zone). As the weather gets cooler, my skin is more combo normal-dry. My skin is prone to redness and many products seem to irritate my sensitive skin (and make my skin more red or will sting and irritate). While I don't break out often, random zits do crop up occasionally. Products that are too rich seem to break me out more. I have no major lines or wrinkles yet. However, since I am in my (cough) late 30s, I am all-about age prevention! I am seeing the start of some expression lines and want to hold those at bay. 

For this review, I tested out the January Labs Skin Essentials Pure & Gentle Cleansing Gel, the Moisture Balancing Lotion, and the Restorative Tonic Mist. Keep reading to find out more about these great products!