Give Your Skin an Extra Boost: MyChelle's Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Give Your Skin an Extra Boost: 

MyChelle's Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist

This time of year, my combo skin goes from combo-dry to combo-oily. While my skin does seem to have more natural oil this time of year, it still needs moisture. However, I don't want to add heavy moisturizers. Instead, I like to give my skin that extra boost of hydration with a hyaluronic acid serum or gel moisturizer and the addition of a Hydrating Mist. This Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist from MyChelle is an awesome extra step after cleansing and before moisturizer or sunscreen. Plus, it is so refreshing and soothing to use! 

MyChelle Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist:

This mist works to instantly refresh and boost your skin’s moisture level while also working to diminish the appearance of fine lines due to dryness. The formula is enriched with powerful Antioxidants including Turmeric and Vitamin C-rich superfruit Mangosteen to help provide anti-pollution benefits. 

How I Use:

In the mornings, I apply the MyChelle Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist immediately after cleansing my face and before applying my MyChelle Sun Shield SPF 28 Unscented (my current Holy Grail Facial Suncreen-I love it!!!). In the evenings, I like to use this amazing mist after cleansing my face and before application of moisturizers or treatment products. To use, I just spray onto my hands and then gently pat onto my face. You could also spray this directly on your face. However, for some reason, I always like to apply sprays with the hand-pat method. 

This product can also be used as a setting spray or as a mid-day skin refresher for a boost of moisture or hydration. It is just one of those products that gives that extra boost to your skin that makes a difference in how your skin looks and feels. 

Like all MyChelle products, this Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist is made without GMO, Gluten, Parabens, Petroleum, Phthalates, Silicones, Sulfates, Ureas, Artificial Fragrances, and Artificial Colors. Vegetarian. Cruelty-free.

I highly recommend this amazing mist and the whole MyChelle line! These products work great for my somewhat sensitive 40-something skin. 

Affiliate Link

Apothecary Skincare and Aromatherapy from C.O. Bigelow

Affiliate Link Press Sample

Apothecary Skincare and Aromatherapy from C.O. Bigelow:

I am so excited to dive into a review of some C.O. Bigelow skincare and aromatherapy products! I have been a fan of their Rose Salve, Mentha Lip Shine, and Nightime Lip Balm for years. So, now I am excited to explore the line further! 

C.O. Bigelow is one of the oldest Apothecary brands around with a long history of great formulas. The line offers a huge variety of skincare, bath and body products, homeopathic remedies, hair, makeup, men's products, fragrances, tools, aromatherapy products, home scents, and even baby products! Today we are going to talk aromatherapy, perfume oils, and skincare as those are the items that I have recently had the opporutnity to try out. Let me just start out by saying that I am a huge fan and would love to explore the line even further! 

Skincare:

In addition to the C.O. Bigelow skincare line, the site also offers a few other skincare brands. I was able to try out the C.O. Bigelow Rosewater Tonic for review. 

C.O. Bigelow Rosewater Skin Tonic is infused with purifying witch hazel, hydrating rose extract and soothing chamomile. In addition, this balancing toner also contains exfoliating salicylic acid for a clean, clear complexion. I am a big fan of using witch hazel for a toner as it is anti-inflammatory and soothing. Plus, salicylic acid is a favorite ingredient in my skincare routine as it does work wonders to keep my skin clear. This toner is a nice 2nd step to my skincare routine on evenings that I do not use a retinol (as that does not mix well with salicylic acid). 

Price: $18

Perfume Oils:

C.O. Bigelow has a fantastic assortment of Perfume Oils. Perfume oils are not to be confused with essential oils. These are not essential oils. Rather, they are a pre-mixed fragrance in a carrier oil. So, they are not straight essential oils but they possibly have essential oils mixed in as part of the fragrance component. These blends can be directly applied to the skin to be worn as a fragrance. I got to try out both the Fresia and the Rose Fragrance oils. I like the lovely floral scent of these fragrance oils. You only need to dab a small amount on your skin. This will last you all day with no need to re-apply. I would really love to try their Vanilla fragrance oil next! The Perfume Oils retail for $15.00 each. Since it only takes a small amount, a bottle will last a long time. That is a tremendous value for a fragrance. 

Essential Oils:

As many of ya'll know, I am a big fan of essential oils. I am almost always diffusing oils in my home and I love making DIY bath and body products with Essential Oils. So, I am super excited that C.O. Bigelow sell essential oils! I was able to try out their Jasmine essential oil and I am so excited to finally add Jasmine to my EO collection! Jasmine is beautiful as a fragrance (mixed with a carrier oil or added to a lotion). In addition, Jasmine has amazing properties with indications for use as the following: antidepressant, antiseptic, emollient,  antispasmodic and sedative. Not to mention the aphrodisiac properties. This is a lovely uplifiting oil with a beautiful and complex scent. C.O. Bigelow has a huge assortment of Essential Oils available. I am really excited to explore their Essential Oils further as the quality is fanastic as is the assortment of offerings. 

Overall, I am super impressed with the Apothecary Skincare, Aromatherapy, and Perfume Oil products that I got to try out from C. O. Bigelow! 

Affiliate Link

Natural Antioxidant Skincare from JĀSÖN: JĀSÖN C-Effects

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Natural Antioxidant Skincare from JĀSÖN: JĀSÖN C-Effects:

Do you have antioxidants in your skincare routine? Personally, I feel that antioxidants should be a must in any good skincare routine. I like to think of it as a vitamin for the skin. Antioxidants work to protect and prevent signs of aging and sun damage by scavenging free radicals. So, the effects of using an antioxidant are not effects that you will see as far as repairing past damage. They work preventatively. With that said, the one exception is Vitamin C. Vitamin C can impart a brightening effect to the skin and can work to combat discoloration over time. I am all about preventing signs of aging. So, I almost always include an antioxidant product in my morning skincare routine. Plus, Vitamin C is really my favorite antioxidant to use because not only does it fight free radicals and further damage, but it also can help to brighten the skin.

Recently, I have had the opporutnity to explore the JĀSÖN C-Effects from JĀSÖN. I am already a huge fan of JĀSÖN skincare and body products. So, I was excited to jump into the C-Effects products. Plus, JĀSÖN products are natural, which I love! Plus, these products are so reasonably priced.

Here is the scoop on the JĀSÖN C-Effects from JĀSÖN:

How it Works: JĀSÖN® C-Effects™ line features JĀSÖN's unique Multi-Antioxidant Complex. Powered by Ester-C®, a stable, naturally derived and deeply penetrating form of Vitamin C, the exclusive complex also features a well-rounded, potent blend of free radical-fighting ingredients, including Vitamin E to moisturize, Green Tea to shield skin from environmental stressors and Thioctic Acid, an essential nutrient that helps to create a healthy, even skin tone. Ideal for all skin types, each product features our unique Multi-Antioxidant Complex and is free of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfates, Petrolatum, Artificial Colors and Phthalates.

C-Effects™ Super- C™ Cleanser:
A power-packed multi-purpose cleanser to wash away dirt and impurities while it replenishes the skin’s defense from free radical damage.  Retails for $10.45

C-Effects™ Super-C™ Toner:
Used after cleansing, this refreshing skin toner purifies and exfoliates without over-drying. Retails for $8.95

C-Effects™ Lotion:
Help reduce the signs of aging caused by the environment and oxidative stress with this elegantly light moisturizer. For use morning and/or evening.  Retails for $16.95

How I Use:
I like using Antioxidant products in the morning as they work preventatively against free-radical damage and sun exposure damage. So, they work well into my morning routine underneath sunscreen.

I start with the C-Effects™ Super- C™ Cleanser. After rinsing, I apply the C-Effects™ Super-C™ Toner by misting my hands and then patting it onto my skin gently. Then I apply one pump of the C-Effects™ Lotion. I follow this up with application of sunscreen. The C-Effects™have a very pleasent light orange scent. The products are hydrating and leave my skin feeling fresh without any irritation. Overall, I am super pleased with these products! If you are looking to add some Vitamin C based antioxidant products, then be sure to check out these options from JĀSÖN. 

Affiliate Link

Transform your skin with Botanical-Based Jane Iredale Products!

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Transform your skin with Botanical-Based Jane Iredale Products:

Hydrating, smoothing, and concealing products can give your skin a wonderful boost. From line-smoothing to covering redness, these botanical-based solutions from Jane Iredale can really give your skin a boost! 

Hydration Sprays:

I *love* using hydration sprays immediately after cleansing my face to give myself a boost of moisture. So, I was super excited to try out one from Jane Iredale.

Jane Iredale offters 3 different hydration spray formulas: POMMISST, Balance, and D2O. These  hydration sprays each refresh and hydrate skin. In addition, they can conceal pores and fine lines when you use them as a quick setting mist after mineral makeup application for a smooth finish and long lasting hold.  They may also be used as moisturizers for oily skin (this is how I use them: immediately after cleansing for a moisture boost) or to wet makeup brushes and create precise lines.  

I got to try out the D20 Hydration Spray:

Jane iredale D2O Hydration Spray is a facial spritz based on Ylang Ylang that helps to hydrate, calm and protect the skin. The ylang ylang leaves an uplifting scent and has a balancing action on the secretion of sebum. It can be used to:

• Set minerals for a long lasting, smooth finish

• Soothe post-laser

• Wet makeup brushes to turn powder eye shadows into eyeliner

I also had the chance to try out Jane Iredale's Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream in the shade bb1. I really enjoy using BB Creams as they are such great multi-taskers: they function as a facial moisturizer, sunscreen, and coverage in one! 

Here is some more information about this amazing BB Cream from Jane Iredale:

This multi-tasking dynamo combines foundation, concealer, sunscreen and added skin care benefits in a versatile one-step product. Available in nine shades, it incorporates natural minerals that adjust to your skin tone to cover blemishes, minimize pores, disguise wrinkles and smooth and brighten skin. Applied with your fingers, the formula nourishes, protects, smoothes and brightens skin while providing gorgeous, total coverage. 

Features and Benefits:

• Contains a broad spectrum SPF 25 UVA PA++ that is water resistant up to 40 minutes

• Nine carefully calibrated shades address all skin types: BB1, BB3, BB5, BB6, BB7, BB8, BB9, BB11 and BB12

• Titanium dioxide offers anti-inflammatory mineral UV protection

• Coconut Alkanes gives a smooth, luxurious feel.

• Grapefruit extract promotes luminosity and skin radiance, minimizes appearance of pores and wrinkles and may help to fade uneven pigmentation

• Apple extract is a skin smoothing anti-oxidant that exfoliates, refines and rejuvenates

• Bitter orange extract naturally perfumes and conditions

• Sunflower seed oil is rich in moisturizing vitamin E

• Aloe leaf juice soothes and calms the skin

• Honeysuckle extract helps purify the skin 

• Iron oxides are natural earth minerals that provide color without the use of FD&C dyes

• Non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, sensitivity tested, clinically tested and dermatologist tested

I really enjoy the coverage and the feel of this BB Cream on my skin! Plus, SPF 25 is a perfect level of sun protection for me for an everyday basis. In the mornings I have been cleansing my face, following it with the Jane Iredale Hydration Mist, and then apply BB Cream after that. It is a super easy morning routine!

Affiliate Link

New Face and Body Anti-Aging products from FarmHouse Fresh

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Anti-Aging Face and Body from FarmHouse Fresh:

I am so excited to share about the new Face and Body Anti-Aging products from FarmHouse Fresh. These awesome new additions feature the miracle super-fruit Aronia Berry, Rose Water, Botanical Milks, and Retinol. 

I am already a fan of the various FarmHouse Fresh bath products that I have tried. So, I was super curious when I heard about this new skincare line...especially since it contains Retinol. I swear by Retinol for anti-aging skincare. It is the most researched and most proven to work over-the-counter ingredient for anti-aging skincare. 

I got to try out the new Facial Skincare Anti-Aging products from FarmHouse Fresh. I am totally enjoying both of these products and I hope to try out the body care item soon, too! 

My Skin:

Before diving into my review, let me tell you a little bit about my skin. I have combination skin that is somewhat sensitive and also somewhat prone to breakouts. While I do not break out often, I do get the occasional zit on my chin or by my nose. I have to be super careful with my skincare so that I do not aggrivate my sensitive skin nor cause breakouts from using products that are too harsh or too rich.  This is tricky as many anti-aging skincare products do contain harsher ingredients and I love the feel of rich creams but can't always use them.

FarmHouse Fresh | Vitamin Berry Facial Tonic:

This hydrating toner is an absolute joy to use. I must admit, I am a big fan of toners to begin with. I always spritz one one my hands after washing my face and then I pat it to my face gently with my hands. I feel this is such a great way to get instant hydration back into your skin after washing. Plus, I really enjoy the refreshing feel of applying it. This formula by FarmHouse Fresh works to minimizes pores with its natural fiter effect and also works to boost moisture content. The Vitamin Berry Facial Tonic features a little-known miracle fruit aronia berry that contains the highest antioxidant content ever recorded among fruits and is grown in the USA. The tonic also contains rose water, sodium hyaluronate, ascorbyl glucoside, and hydrolyzed starch. 

More about the ingredients:

• Rose Water: is a steamed distillate of Rosa Damascena flower, which is intensely hydrating, anti-inflammatory and calming
• Aronia Berry Extract: contains the highest recorded antioxidant concentration of any fruit or vegetable
• Sodium Hyaluronate: the salt form of skin-identical hyaluronic acid, which helps boost skin’s moisture content and prevent moisture loss
• Ascorbyl Glucoside: a stable form of vitamin C and glucose, a combination that functions as an antioxidant to help skin preserve key substances needed to look younger and brighter; 
• Hydrolyzed Starch: provides an instant skin tightening and pore-hiding effect of up to 69% 

The tonic’s formula is free of parabens, sulfates & mineral oil, and it is 99% natural, vegan and gluten-free.

Retails for $36 for 3.5 oz. 

FarmHouse Fresh | Three Milk Ageless Night Cream: 

I try to use a Retinol product almost every evening for age prevention. So, I am always curious to try out new Retinols. This Three Milk Ageless Night Cream intrigued me immediately as it promised to be super gentle. This is a good thing when it comes to Retinols and my skin as my skin can get very irritated with Retinol treatment if I am not careful. 

I do, indeed, find this to be a very gentle and easily tolerated Retinol. I am able to use it almost every night without irritation. The key is that this formula is super duper moisturizing. It literally leaves what feels like a film on your skin at night which locks in the hydration and the active ingredients so that they can go to work on your skin over night. I was able to use this formula without irritation. I like how hyrdated and soft my skin feels in the mornings after using this at night. Yes, it does leave a super thick heavy film on your skin. So, that takes getting used to. However, the results are nice. I did get a few clogged pores and minor breakouts initially. However, my skin did seem to overall tolerate this cream. 

Three Milk Ageless Night Cream contains 3 botanical milks (milk thistle, milk vetch, coconut milk), retinol and advanced peptides to firm, hydrate and transform the skin by morning. It uses a time-release delivery system of pure-form retinol for long-term targeted anti-aging benefits. Time release formulas are very beneficial as the time release really helps to minimize irritation.

More About the Ingredients:

• Retinol (vitamin A): wrinkle-smoothing, firming, and improves visible signs of aging; vitamin-enriched coconut milk moisturizes and soothes skin
• Milk Thistle: contains silymarin, an antioxidant that is dermatologist recommended, as it reduces skin redness and itching, while improving hydration
• Milk Vetch: a plant extract with antibacterial properties; while advanced peptides help reduce the look of deep wrinkle surface area by up to 45% after 2 months of use. 

The cream’s formula is free of parabens, sulfates & mineral oil, and it is 93% natural, vegan and gluten-free.

Retails for $45 for 1.7 fl oz. 

Be sure to check out this amazing new lineup of Anti-Aging Skincare products from FarmHouse Fresh! They are beautifully packaged and the products inside the lovely packaging is even better! You can find FarmHouse Fresh at top destination spas, resorts, and finer retailers across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, including Four Seasons, Ritz-Carltons, Westin-Dubai, Sandals & Beaches Resorts, Marriotts, Hyatts, Waldorf Astorias, Omni Hotels, as well as Burke Williams Spas, Woodhouse Day Spas and more and online at www.farmhousefreshgoods.com.

Affiliate Link

Effective, Natural, and Gentle Skincare from SIBU: SIBU Sea Berry Therapy

Affiliate Link  Press Sample

SIBU Re-Brands with the SIBU Sea Berry Therapy Line:

The premium natural skincare and suppliment brand SIBU has replaced their Sibu Beauty line with SIBU Sea Berry Therapy. This re-branding and repackaging more clearly defines the core ingredient, The Sea Berry, and how SIBU products are a solution for problematic skin. This SIUB Sea Berry Therapy line targets skin concerns such as eczema, acne, rosacea, sun damage, and excessive dryness. 

What sets SIBU apart from other brands using the Sea Berry (sea buckthorn)? SIBU stands out because of the quality of the wild berry it sources exclusively from the Himalayan highlands. More from SIBU about the Sea Berry: Known as Turkestanica, this sea berry sub-species thrives in the harsh environment at 12,000 ft. above sea level. Packed with over 190 bioactive compounds, it’s the most nutrient-dense of all sea buckthorn varieties and is the world’s richest source of omega-7 fatty acids. 

SIBU's new product line name, logo, and package design are very fitting for the fabulous products inside the packaging! SIBU Sea Berry Therapy consists of a full range of gentle, yet effective, skin care products and supplements that work for for dry damaged skin, fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and more. In addition to topical personal care products, SIBU also offers a varitey of supplements.

To get re-acquainted with the line and the new packaging, I tried a variety of items from the SIBU Sea Berry Therapy line: SIBU Sea Berry Therapy Polishing Facial Cleanser, SIBU Sea Berry Therapy Hydrating Face Serum, SIBU Sea Berry Therapy Clarifying Facial Toner, and SIBU Sea Berry Seed Oil. To find out more about each of these items and how they worked for me, please click "read more" below.

Get Clear with La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Dermatological Acne System

Affiliate Link Press Sample

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Dermatological Acne System:

My hormones and skin have been all over the map lately. When my hormones are wacky, I break out. I always thought that my issues with breakouts would be long behind me at my age. However, yes, women like myself in their 40s do still get breakouts. 

According to La Roche-Posay, a staggering 2 in 5 Americans with acne report that their current acne treatments failed to meet their expectations? Well, La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Dermatological Acne System is clinically proven to reduce the number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions, comparable to the leading prescription treatment. So, it is great to know that there are effective acne treatments available at the drugstore. I just had to try it out! 

La Roche-Posay has formulated the Effaclar Dermatological Acne System (retails for $29.99, at Drugstores) to help people of all ages clear up their dreaded acne.  This new system consists of three products: the Medicated Gel Cleanser, the Dual Action Acne Treatment, and the Clarifying Solution. These products are all non-comedogenic, oil-free, fragrance-free and paraben-free.

My Skin:
I have classic combination skin. It varies widely depending on the season and the state of my hormones. Currently, I am leaning towards normal-to-oily with a lot of oil through my t-zone. I also classify myself as having sensitive skin. So, I need to be careful of ingredients. In addition, since I am in my 40s, I am very interested in effective anti-aging skincare. While this Effaclar System is not marketed as an anti-aging system. It is a system that "plays nicely" with my anti-aging skincare treatments, serums, and creams. So, it helps to keep my skin clear while also being gentle enough on my skin that I can still continue to use my anti-aging treatment products and serums in conjunction with this system. 

Recently, my hormonal breakouts were driving me so batty that I finally gave in and went to see the dermatologist. I tend to check in with a dermatologist anually anyways for full body skin cancer screenings (skin cancer runs in my family). Guess what? The Dermatologist recommended La Roche-Posay products!!! I even got a few samples from my Dr. of the items in the Dermatoligical Acne System. I was thrilled that the doctor recommended products that I could easily get at the drugstore. I must also mention that I have changed my birth control pill as well and that seems to have helped to regulate my hormones better and has probably contributed to my skin clearing up as well. Either way, the combination of the new pill and the inclusion of the Effaclar products has really helped my skin!

To find out more details about the Effaclar Dermatological Acne System and how I liked the products, please click "read more" below! 

Exploring Erborian Skincare: NEW Yuza Double Lotion, CC Cream, and Bamboo Creme Frappe

Affiliate Link Press Sample 

Have you heard of Erborian Skincare? Perhaps you have seen it during your browsing at Sephora? Erborian is a fusion of Korean herbal science and French luxury skincare. I am a skincare junkie at heart...but, I must admit I do have a special place for luxury skincare and skincare that has a scientifically sound base. Erborian meets the criteria! This innovative brand researches skincare routines and rituals from around the world and then offers it within its scientifically formulated products. As the brand describes it: "intelligent beauty"! I'm down with that! They are able to harness the essence of Koren herbs into scientifically formulated products. The result is that the line offers products that are natural and pure; yet, the products are gentle and well-tolerated. As someone with sensitive skin, I love that!

Now lets dive into my first foray with Erborian skincare products. I tried out three products: The NEW Erborian Yuza Double Lotion, the cult-favorite Erborian CC Cream, and the Erborian Bamboo Creme Frappe Skin Reviving Fresh Gel.

To find out more details about these products and how my skin got on with them, please click read more below! :)

Soothing My Sensitive Skin with Paula's Choice CALM: Plus HUGE Skincare #Giveaway

 Press Sample Sponsored Post Affiliate Link PRIMP Power Primper

The Struggle is Real! Keeping Redness and Irritation at Bay with Paula's Choice CALM:

Redness, irritation, and sensitivity...oh my! Skincare can be so complicated! Especially when you have combination skin that is somewhat acne-prone and sensitive. I want products that work for my fluctuating skin type, that don't flare up or cause breakouts, and that are also gentle. That is a tall order and often products fall short on at least one if not more of those three requirements. 

As a beauty blogger, I am constantly trying out new things. However, I have to tread lightly with my skincare testing. I have to add in one new product at a time and often I have to stop testing products after just a few days and discontinue if they cause irritation or flare up redness. I actually first got interested in blogging and the beauty community with my search for skincare that works for my complicated skin. Paula's products and her "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me" book have been instrumental in my skincare journey for years! 

My goal with my blog is to share with you the very best products that I have found that work for my skin. So, I am excited to share with you today about the Paula's Choice CALM Redness Relief Kit for Normal to Oily Skin. This kit was developed specifically to gently reduce redness and and signs of irritation with comforting and moisturizing formulas. 

My Skin:

My skin type is Combination (Normal to Oily) and I am sensitive and prone to redness and irritation. I am somewhat acne-prone. However, I must note that with the right skincare, I can almost completely keep breakouts at bay. But, if I use anything too rich or pore-clogging, the breakouts return. Also, when products irritate me, I don't just get red, I also get irritation bumps that somewhat resemble breakouts on my cheeks. I have often wondered if this is actually boarderline Rosasea. No, I have never been diagnosed with Rosasea, however, I do wonder...My skin is just so prone to redness and irritaion. Not just with products either! Even if I eat spicy foods, go out in the cold, or go running in the heat...guess what? My face turns bright red!

Exfoliation is particularly tricky for me. Great exfoliation keeps breakouts away. However, if I over-do exfoliation or use anything that is either too harsh or abrasive, that will flare up those pesky irritation bumps and redness on my cheeks. Do you know what else is tricky? I am in my early 40s. So, I am particularly interested in anti-aging products. However, effective anti-aging ingredients are often irritating. I want effective anti-aging products with powerhouse ingredients. However, it is not worth irritating my skin. Sigh. It is a vicious cycle and the struggle really is real!

Paula's Choice CALM Redness Relief Kit for Normal to Oily Skin:

For today's post, I am going to tell you about my experience with the Paula's Choice CALM Redness Relief Kit for Normal to Oily Skin. I have used this kit for a few weeks and am super excited to share these products with you! If you have Combination skin that is prone to sensitivity and redness, you are going to want to read more!

Paula's Choice Perk: 20% off plus Free Shipping for Pammy Blogs Beauty readers:
How about this awesome deal for Pammy Blogs Beauty readers:
20% off + free shipping with promo code: PRIMPSPRING
Click through this link to get discount!

Details and Giveaway:
To find out more about the amazing Paula's Choice Redness Relief Kit, please click "read more" below! Plus, click through below to enter the HUGE Skincare Regime Giveaway (valued at over $200!):

MIYU's Beauty Essences: Enhance Your Skin's Ability to Retain Water!

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Raise your hand if you have dehydrated skin (me!!!). Winter certainly brings out the dry in my combination skin. Sure, I adjust my skincare routine...I opt for richer moisturizers and hydrating cleansers. However, my skin is still feeling dry and dehydrated on a day-to-day basis. If you are like me, you will love adding a MIYU Beauty Essence into your routine. Honestly, when I first wanted to try it, I just thought it was going to be a hydrating toner. Well, I learned that it is more than a toner, it is actually a revolutionary new spray-on serum! It deeply hydrates, tones, and primes your skin. OMG! So, you are really not adding a new step to your skincare routine...you are replacing one: this product acts as your serum and toner in one. These Beauty Essences from MIYU are my new favorite part of my skincare routine (and something that I reach for throughout the day). My skin just loves these!!! 

MIYU has two Beauty Essences: 

As you will see below in the descriptions, these are slightly different formulas. So, I just reach for whichever one suits my skin's needs and they type of day I am having. :) 

These MIYU Beauty Essences are so easy to use and they feel amazing going on. To use, I just wash my face and pat dry. Then I spray about 2-4 sprays of a MIYU Beauty Essence onto my hands and then pat it onto my face. You can feel the Beauty Essence instantly hydrate and smooth your skin. After that, I proceed with the rest of my skincare routine (skipping a serum!). Also, if my skin is feeling parched throughout the day, I will lightly mist the MIYU Beauty Essence directly onto my skin by spraying into the air and then putting my face into the mist. It instantly refreshes!

Hydrate Mi Beauty Essences:

This Beauty Essence has very light sweet notes of rose. This Beauty Essence binds water to the skin and enhances skin's natural water transport system, delivering intense hydration to all layers of the skin. 

Choose this Beauty Essence if: you do not drink enough water (me!!!), consume too many caffeinated beverages, travel frequently, live in a dry climate, or just naturally have dry and parched skin. 

Key Ingredients:

• Rose Petals: used in Traditional Chines Medicine for centuries to improve circulation and soothe from within
• Wild Pansies: proven to boost hydration by 20% in 28 days by enhancing aquaporin activity, the skin's natural water transport system.
• Goji Berries: known to promote collagen production, these berries will help keep skin smooth.

De-Stress Mi Beauty Essence: 

This Beauty Essence is so uplifting! It has light and fresh notes of peppermint! De-Stress Mi Beauty Essence combats stress-induced free radicals, calms inflammation, and repairs skin's barrier function for more serene and radiant complexion. 

Choose this Beauty Essence if: you multi-task from dawn till dusk, are strained from pressing timelines, or are just naturally type A (me!). 

Key Ingredients:

• Peppermint: refreshes the mind and naturally delivers vitamins A and C to fight the effects of inflammation.
• Licorice: its natural anti-irritant anti-inflammatory properties can help calm and detoxify stressed complexions.
• 5 Essential Minerals: immediate soothes stressed skin while repairing barrier function.

There is no question, using MIYU Beauty Essences has increased the hydration of my skin! These instantly hydrate and refresh and soothe the skin. This has left my skin looking more radiant and plump. I adore these Beauty Essences and will continue to use them as part of my everyday skincare routine! I don't know if I can ever go back to a regular hydrating toner after using these! I just love that they are "more than a toner"! They really are a toner and serum in one! Amazing!!! :) 

Where to buy? You can find MIYU Beauty at Anthropologie and online at www.miyubeauty.com

Affiliate Link

My Skin Loves: Kate Somerville Dermal Quench Liquid Lift

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

It is time for another update in my "My Skin Loves" blog series. "My Skin Loves" is where I share my very favorite skincare products: my "Holy Grails" of skincare! :) This time, I am sharing an old favorite that has made its way back into my skincare routine!

As you all may know,  I have a bit of a love-affair with Kate Somerville's line of skincare products! With awards season, you often hear celebrities mentioning Kate Somerville. Using Kate Somerville skincare is one of Hollywood's best kept secrets about looking good for the red carpet! With the way that this particular product seems to "erase" wrinkles, I am not at all surprised by that fact! Seriously, this product literally smooths out my fine lines in minutes! There is absolutely nothing else that I have ever used that works quite like this product. 

 

Dermal Quench Liquid Lift Advanced Wrinkle treatment:

I was first introduced to this product over a year ago when I was watching a QVC special with Kate Somerville. I watched Kate demonstrate Dermal Quench and I was completely amazed. You literally spray it on and as it absorbs it plumps your skin and smooths out your fine lines and wrinkles. It makes them almost dissapear! So, ya'll know that I just had to try it out! This product is an old favorite and I have recently come back to using it and can't believe that I ever stopped!!! As a beauty blogger, I am often rotating products and trying new things to review here on the blog. So, it is a major treat when I cycle back to a favorite product like Dermal Quench Liquid Lift from Kate Somerville!

Honestly, I have never tried anything else quite like this product! The results are almost instantaneous and have such an amazing visual impact! You seriously just need to try it to believe it. It will erase or lessen your wrinkles just a few minutes after application.

Now, you might be thinking "You don't have wrinkles Pammy!". Well, no, I really don't. However, I do have some fine lines around my eyes that look much more prominent when my skin is dehydrated. This unique Dermal Quench spray completely obliterates those. I often surprise people when they hear my age. I am 40 years old and honestly happy to report that I don't look it. When I first meet people at parties and get-tethers and they find out my age...they will often jokingly want to know my "secret" to looking young. This product is one of those secrets! I almost always use Dermal Quench before nights out and date night. :) A spray of Dermal Quench before applying makeup smooths out those fine lines beautifully for beautiful smooth skin on nights out!

 

My Skin:

I have sensitive combination skin. I have that unique problem of skin that needs anti-aging components yet also can be prone to breaking out (if I am not careful in my product selection). While I do not have any major wrinkles (yet!), I would like to take whatever action that I can to prevent them! 

To find out more details about Kate Somerville's amazing DermalQuench Liquid Lift and how I use it, please keep reading!

My Skin Loves: Avene's NEW Micellar Lotion Cleanser & Makeup Remover!

Affiliate Link Press Sample

It is time for an update in my "My Skin Loves" series! As many of you know, I am a skincare fanatic! Actually, discovering great skincare is one of the main reasons that I started this blog. With my sensitive and somewhat temperamental skin, I am determined to find the best possible combination of skincare items to keep my skin looking its best. 

My latest new love and discovery? Avene's NEW Micellar Lotion Cleanser & Makeup Remover. Yes, I adore it!!!

I jumped on the Micellar Water bandwagon when Bioderma got popular in the USA amongst beauty-lovers and beauty bloggers. After having such a hard time actually finding Bioderma, I switched gears to finding other Micellar waters that are much more readily available in the USA. So, you know that I was thrilled when I found out that one of my favorite skincare lines, Avene, came out with a Micellar water option! 

Avene's Micellar Lotion Cleanser & Makeup Remover:  

So, what is a Micellar Water anyway? Basically, it is a fabulous all-purpose product: a cleanser, makeup remover, and toner all in one...plus, it is a no rinse formula. So, it couldn't be easier to use: just dampen a cotton round with Micellar water and wipe across skin cleansing, toning, and removing makeup in one step. Does this sound like the unicorn product of skincare? lol, yes!!!  It is based on a micelle principle that protects and releases cleansing agents and softening actives upon contact with skin. Cool, right?!?! 

To find out more, click "read more" below! :)

My Home Spa: Latest Loves from LUSH!

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

It is time for a "My Home Spa" update! As ya'll know, I am all about bath time lately. As a super busy stay-at-home Mom of a newborn and a toddler, undisturbed "me time" is very rare. My best bet for relaxation and tranquility? Retreating into my bathroom for a nice bath. I am trying to do this at least a couple times a week when my husband can take over bedtime duties with my toddler and my newborn.

My Home Spa:

Speaking of "my home spa" aka: my master bathroom, I might do some posts on my ongoing process of decorating my bathroom and transforming it into a "spa-like" room. After many years in a crowded urban home, we moved to the outer burbs a few months ago and I finally have my "dream space": a large master bathroom. Would you all be interested in reading about that process? I am very excited about it! It is taking awhile as I want to buy art, decor, furniture, and organizational pieces that really speak to me and work with the space. So far, it is painted (a nice sea/teal blue), we have changed out some of the fixtures, and I have found a large painting to hang. My next step is purchasing either a large plush bench or a chaise and a linen tower for next to the tub. I think that I need some plants and some containers to hold my bath products as well. I would love to hear some ideas about how to organize my bath products around my tub! 

My other spa "escape"? My morning shower. Often, it has to be super short as I need to be back on Mommy-duty. However, using luxurious shower products makes that 5 minutes in the shower just that much more "special". I am finding that I am pretty much addicted to my latest additions to my shower gel and body scrub collection. Uplifting scents and nicely textured scrubs are both relaxing and invigorating for me in the mornings. So, needless to say, I am digging my new LUSH shower items!

With how much I am into baths lately, you know that I am excited to try out some new items from LUSH! Here are the items that I tried from their Valentine's Day collection: Love Locket Heart Breaker Bath Bomb, The Kiss Tinted Lip Balm, and the Prince Charming Shower Gel. Plus, I got a few new items from their regular line like the Tea Tree Water, the Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter, and the Rub, Rub, Rub scrub. Overall, I am in bath & body heaven with my new LUSH products!

If you want to hear more about each item, please click "read more" below!

My Skin Loves: My latest finds from Kate Somerville, Shiseido, and Boots (hint: I have found a new Holy Grail Product!!!)

 Affiliate Link Press Sample 

It is time for another installment of my "My Skin Loves" Skincare Series! This is the series where I share all of my latest and greatest skincare finds. I have had many skincare loves lately! I have really just been lucking out with many of the products that I have tried. Since I have quite a few skincare loves. I will try to break them down a few at a time in my next few installments of "My Skin Loves"

My Skin: 

Before diving into my reviews, let me give you some background info about my skin. My skin is currently sensitive and combination-oily (with it being primarily oily in the t-zone). Typically my skin is combo-normal. However, I am currently pregnant and my skin gets more oily with pregnancy. Also, my skin has been very prone to breaking out both on my chin area and around my nose. I have large pores. My biggest skin issue is probably my difficulty with my dark under eye circles (due to heredity, allergies, and general lack of sleep). I am in my late 30's. So, I am very interested in fighting fine lines and preventing wrinkles and other signs of aging.

For this installment of "My Skin Loves", I am going to highlight some of my recent favorite finds: Kate Somerville's Oil Free Moisturizer, Shiseido's Ibuki Eye Correcting Cream, Boots Botanics Rosewater Toning Spritz, and Boots Botanics Facial Oil.  I think that every single one of these products are amazing!!! These have all been fabulous additions to my skincare rotation of products. 

LUSH Store Tour and Discovering the Best LUSH Products for Pregnancy Pampering!

 Affiliate Link Press Sample

Are you looking for a fun shopping experience? Do you have a LUSH store or a LUSH department (in a Macy's) near you? I highly recommend stopping into your nearest LUSH location to experience all that the store has to offer! Recently, I toured the LUSH "Mall of Georgia" store location. What a fun experience! Not only was that particular trip fun, but also I should mention that I enjoy exploring LUSH products every time I step into a LUSH store or LUSH store department.

For my LUSH store tour, I had one purpose in mind: Pregnancy Pampering!!! As many of you know, pregnancy can be flat out exhausting.Your legs are aching, your skin is stretching, your skin type and hair type may have changed, and you basically can just feel achy, bloated, and tired. Plus, you can't use many of your usual standbys for oily skin and breakouts (no benzol peroxide nor retinol while pregnant) and body aches (Advil is another no-no). Whenever I complain to my OB about fatigue and aches...what does he recommend??? A bath!!! So, what is a girl to do? Me? I headed right to my very favorite bath and body store...LUSH!

So, I basically got the "pregnancy tour"! :) The LUSH Mall of Georgia's Curtis gave me a really fabulous tour and experience. There is no question that he is not only knowledgeable, but also passionate about LUSH products! His enthusiasm was contagious and I had a lot of fun discovering all that LUSH had to offer a tired preggie like me. :)

While I heard about and smelled items in almost all of the stores categories, I am going to focus a bit more on the items that I ended up taking home (otherwise this post would be WAY too long, lol!). There is no question. When it comes to beauty pampering, LUSH has you totally covered!

Ziaja Skincare: Fabulous European Products for Body and Face (all under $10!!!)

Affiliate Link Press Sample

I just love exploring a new skincare line. Especially a fabulous line like Ziaja! Ziaja is a respected and established European skincare line that is now shipping to the USA. Would you like to know another great thing? Everything in this line is under $10!!!

Ziaja features 11 different facial and body skincare lines: Aloe, Argan Oil, Cocoa Butter, Coconut, Cucumber, Goat's Milk, Marigold, Marine Algae, Natural Olive, Orange Butter, and Men. You can search the website for products based on product lines or specific skincare need (face, toners, etc). Ziaja sent me a variety of items from the Coconut and Cocoa Butter Body lines as well as the Cucumber facial skincare line to try out. 

About Ziaja:

The Ziaja Skincare line is a Polish brand that is now available online for shoppers from the USA. The products are natural, not tested on animals, and all under $10 each! The products combine traditional components like herbal extracts and vitamins with innovative modern technology based on pharmaceutical expertise. Ziaja wants to bring you innovative products at a competitive price! The prices are really very reasonable!!!

To find out how I like the Coconut, Cocoa Butter, and Cucumber skincare products from Ziaja, please click "read more" below! :) I might have just found my favorite Coconut body scent...ever!

Earth Sourced: NEW Natural Skincare Line from Paula's Choice

I am so excited about this new natural skincare line from Paula's Coice: Earth Sourced!

For those of you that don't know Paula "The Cosmetics Cop" or the Paula's Choice brand, let me introduce you! Paula Begoun is one of the main inspirations for why I started getting into reading product reviews and writing them myself! I stumbled across her amazing book "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me" over 10 years ago. The book is a reference volume of 100s of cosmetics and skincare product reviews by brand. I instantly became hooked on reading product reviews before buying. The reviews are written based on the product formulations. So, the products are evaluated based on the integrity of the ingredients (rather than personal reviews).

I feel like I owe a lot to Paula as she was such an inspiration to me! I have always loved testing out and trying products. My search of product reviews led me to Makeup Alley where I read and contributed to the product reviews in the MUA database. I also discovered many great product review blogs, such as 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic, where I would read product reviews on a daily basis. After years of reading reviews, I finally decided to start my own blog to publish all my product reviews in one place! I am so happy that I have found an audience and I just love my readers!!!

Not only does Paula Begoun have a fabulous beauty product reference book, but also she has an amazing skincare and makeup line: Paula's Choice. Her products used to be staple items for me years ago. I found her skincare to be very effective while not irritating my sensitive skin! I still like her products. However, I had not used them in awhile. I do so much product testing (especially with writing this blog), that I switch up my skincare frequently. So, I was absolutely thrilled when Paula's Choice contacted me about her new Earth Sourced Skincare line!

The Earth Sourced Line:
The Earth Sourced Line is a natural skincare line with 98% plant-based ingredients. The line is suitable for normal, combination, or dry skin types. Earth Sourced products contain no synthetic compounds. Paula strives to pick the best ingredients based on skincare research. According to the website, Earth Sourced products can help to repair wrinkles, reduce environmental skin damage, and diminish signs of aging. Have you used natural products in the past that irritated your skin? I sure have. Well, Paula's Choice knows to keep natural ingredients out that are known skin irritants like cinnamon, peppermint, and citruses. The natural ingredients in Earth Sourced products are both gentle and effective! These products contain no dyes nor fragrances. The line is really a great option for sensitive skin!

For this review, I tried out the Earth Sourced Cleansing Gel, Refreshing Toner, and Antioxidant Enriched Natural Moisturizer. To find out how I liked these products, please keep reading!

Get Misty with Dr. Loretta's Rainforest Mist

Are you a fan of facial mists? I sure am! For the longest time I thought that facial mists just were not a necessary part of a facial skincare routine. Well, at least I thought that until I stared using them! Boy was I wrong. My skincare routine absolutely does not seem complete unless I mist my face with some sort of hydrating toner or facial mist right after washing. I need that instant hydrating boost!

So, as you can imagine, I was very excited to try out this new Rain Forest Mist from Dr. Loretta! This is my first time trying any Dr. Loretta skincare. Dr. Loretta is a cosmetic dermatologist with a background in UVA research. Dr. Loretta's goal with her skincare line is for her products to make your skin look and feel fresher.

My Skin:
In a nutshell, I have combo skin that is quite sensitive. My skin is really all over the map lately. In summer it was combo-oily (in the t-zone). Now that we have ventured into cold Fall weather, my skin is getting dry. I am in my late 30s. So, anti-aging products are a must for me! I do not have any wrinkles yet. However, when my skin gets dehydrated, fine lines crop up around my eye area. Generally my skin is clear but I do get the occasional breakout on my chin.

Rain Forest Mist: An Antioxidant Facial Mist!
Dr. Loretta's Rain forest Mist is a hydrating antioxidant mist that hydrates and refreshes your skin while smoothing your skin's texture. While I love my usual facial mists, I do often feel that their main function is to hydrate. So, I am thrilled to switch to a facial mist that also has the added benefit of antioxidants!

To find out more about Dr. Loretta's Rain Forest Mist and my results, please keep reading!