Skincare – Page 36 – Forty, Flirty & Fabulous

My Beauty Favorites Week of May 25-May 31, 2015

I hope you all had a great weekend! It rained in Kansas City most of the week, but was sunny today. We took advantage of it by going to the zoo today. It was so nice to be outside.

Each week in my favorites round-up this summer, I will try to include some type of sunscreen. It is important to use sunscreen all year-long, but especially during the summer when the sun can be extreme and we are outside more!

My faves this week include anti-aging sunscreen, makeup for a flawless face, floral scents and detangling combs for summer hair.

What are you loving this week? Leave a comment and share!

Obagi Gentle Rejuvenation Ultra-Light Repair SPF 30 Sunscreen Cream

Obagi Medical Professional-C SPF 30

Obagi Rosaclear Skin Balancing Sun Protection SPF 30

Obagi Gentle Rejuvenation Ultra-Light Repair SPF 30 Sunscreen Cream (approx. $44 USD) — A moisturizing sunscreen that helps repair the skin barrier while providing protection against harmful UV rays, with an exclusive blend of skin-identical ceramides and other ingredients that help diminish the appearance of the early signs of skin aging.

Obagi Medical Professional-C SPF 30 (approx. $54 USD) — UV rays and free radicals are two of the leading causes of skin damage and signs of aging. Obagi Professional-C Sunscare Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 defends against both of these harmful factors to help keep your complexion looking youthful. The formula also contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that protects the complexion against free radicals. Because the formula is lightweight and elegant, it does not leave skin feeling greasy or oily like many other sun protection products.

Obagi Rosaclear Skin Balancing Sun Protection SPF 30 (approx. $56 USD) — This highly protective mineral sunscreen provides chemical-free protection against UVA and UVB damage. Designed with a soft tint, it effectively disguises redness, blotches and rosacea-related blemishes for a healthier-looking complexion.

What I think: Obagi skincare is very effective in combating aging. All three of the above Obagi moisturizing sunscreens not only treat skin but protect it with SPF 30, which is so important for fighting aging and skin cancer. The Gentle Rejuvenation SPF is great for moisturizing skin, the Professional-C can help repair skin damage and the Rosaclear is a mineral sunscreen that has a soft tint to it to help with redness.

Learn more at http://www.obagi.com

Smashbox Photo Finish More Than Primer Dark Spot Correcting

Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation

Smashbox Photo Finish More Than Primer Dark Spot Correcting ($42 USD) — More than primer = less dark spots! Makeup meets skincare with this primer revolution. 84% of women saw significant improvement in just 4 weeks with the clinically proven formula. It instantly brightens and primes to smooth the appearance of fine lines and pores, while fading dark spots and acne marks over time.

Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation ($42 USD) — The special effects of Light Filter Technology and the performance of long-wear Photoset Polymers blend together to make this powder foundation magic. Not only does it act like your favorite photo filter on your phone, but it also stays true all day.

What I think: I still wear makeup in the summer, even on hot days, but I love products that are multitaskers. These two Smashbox products certainly are that! The primer is moisturizer and a primer and the foundation is foundation and powder in one great product. And they do work well together. After my SPF, I apply the primer than the foundation and my base is done! Easy and flawless, just like I like my summer!

Available at http://www.smashbox.com

Westmore Beauty Coverage Perfector 2-in-1 Foundation ($32 USD) — With Westmore Beauty’s Coverage Perfector, every woman can now easily experience Hollywood special effects in minutes–and with one product! It’s your sheer-to-full-coverage foundation and concealer in one that magically provides skin with the appearance of a flawless, airbrushed finish. Concealing everything with comfortable long-wearing coverage, the luxuriously creamy and hydrating formula provides a unique glow, leaving your skin looking radiant, and giving you the perfect skin appearance you’d expect from Hollywood celebrities walking the red carpet.

Coverage Perfector is formulated with a unique complex that helps to provide a beautiful glow to the skin. The Tri-Effects technology works on three connected levels of technology to help provide long-wear coverage, ultra comfort, and natural-looking radiance to the skin. This “special effect” will stay with you until you remove Coverage Perfector.

What I think: I was so excited to try this! I haven’t been using concealer lately, because I have been trying to scale down my daily makeup routine. This product claims to be a concealer and foundation — and it is! I start by tapping it under my eyes for concealer, then I apply it on the rest of my face with the fabulous brush that is included. Such a great product with a really good price!

Available at http://www.qvc.com

Conair Anti-static Detangling Comb ($3.29 USD) — Anti-static comb prevents flyaway problems. Detangle without causing split ends. Evenly distribute conditioner to hair ends. Use with any hair type for volume. For wet or dry styling.

What I think: I have been using this comb on myself (and my daughters) after baths and during styling. Leaves my hair smooth and soft!

Available at mass market retailers near you.

Essence of Beauty Rose Enhancement Body Mist ($6.99 8oz) — Escape to a vibrant and lush rose garden with top notes of bergamot and radiant orange, mid notes of strawberry, elegant rose and geranium bloom, and base notes of garden rhubarb, sunshine daisy and dewy musk.

Essence of Beauty Luscious Peony Body Mist ($6.99 8oz) — Pretty and playful, Luscious Peony evokes lavish floral gardens in full bloom, bursting with freshness. Sparkling white grapefruit and bergamot blend with notes of soft rose petals, perfectly accentuated by peony, wild poppy and magnolia to create this refreshing, vibrant fragrance.

What I think: Now that our peonies and roses are blooming, it is fun to have similar fragrances to wear that will last all year long (unlike the flowers themselves)! Both of these smell really fresh and are so affordable, and because they are body mists, they will last a long time

Purchase at http://www.cvs.com

My Beauty Favorites Week of May 18-May 24, 2015

My kids just got out of school for summer break on Friday, so our summer has started! Between planning how to keep them busy and our road trip to Yellowstone, I am getting so excited for warmer weather and fun! This week I have been getting ready for summer by loving a fab skincare sunscreen, hair care for summer styles, and products to protect, restore and heal the skin. tarte tarteguard 30 sunscreen lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($32 USD) — tarte’s first ever, non-chemical sunscreen to help protect, moisturize, brighten and re-invigorate skin for a youthful-looking appearance. The lightweight, non-sticky liquid lotion contains all mineral, non-chemical sunscreen ingredients to help protect against the sun’s damaging UVA/UVB rays that can cause dryness, redness, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles, among other skincare beauty boundaries. Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation for daily use, the skinvigorating™ formula is also infused with maracuja, red algae, soybean, apple and honeysuckle extracts to nourish, tone and retain moisture while helping to combat signs of aging for a firmer, brighter, smoother appearance. The fresh, ocean’s lily scent allows for luxurious, spa-like daily applications while the high-performance liquid emulsion seamlessly melts into skin, leaving it supremely soft and silky, without ever leaving a white cast. What I think: I have been using this as my daily moisturizer/sunscreen for a few days. It is very lightweight and absorbs instantly into my skin. It is hard to tell that it is a sunscreen because it is very sheer and there isn’t a sunscreen scent. The scent is quite floral, which seems strange for a sunscreen (not tropical) but it is very nice. I will be using this until I run out! Purchase at http://www.tartecosmetics.com

Aveda Pure Abundance Style Prep

Aveda Brilliant Spray-On Shine

Aveda Air Control Hair Spray

Pure Abundance Style Prep ($24 USD) — Nature’s boost for fine hair-infuses all-day weightless volume that feels naturally yours. Adds lightweight, natural bulk to each strand with a botanical blend of acacia gum, passion fruit, rice bran, açaí oil and certified organic aloe. Boosts volume with a natural corn-derived polymer-helping give fine, limp strands the hold they need for body that lasts all day. Weightless conditioners detangle to help prevent breakage from combing. Helps refresh volume on non-shampoo days-without adding weight. Brilliant Spray-On Shine — ($28 USD) — Provides a sheer mist of pure shine and vitamin E to finished hair styles. Also helps eliminate flyaways. For all hair types. Imparts glossy shine, eliminates flyaways and tames frizz. Aveda Air Control Hair Spray — ($26 USD) — Take hold of innovation: with a flexible, lasting hold hair spray-for all hair types-that has a net-zero impact* on the Earth’s climate. Breakthrough pine resin technology for hold. Dry delivery. What I think: For summer, just a few great hair care products can keep your hair looking amazing, but not over done. The Style Prep is a multi-tasker as it adds volume, detangles and refreshes volume on not shampoo days. The Spray-On Shine really does add a healthy shine and helps with the flyaways. And the flexible hold of the hairspray is perfect for sexy summer ‘do’s! Available at http://www.aveda.com

Q’urSkin

Q’urBurn

Q’urFollica

Q’urSkin ($12 USD) — Helps cleanse impurities and prevents inflammation, as well as supports skin’s healthy appearance. Useful for skin affected with lesions, minor cuts & scrapes, minor burns, bedsores and inconsistence. treatment for inflamed acne. The new nano-technological approach enhances the skin barrier system, provides long-lasting protection and assists in skin self-healing. Available at http://wwwndc.walmart.com/ip/Q-urSkin-QF-3010-2.3-fl.oz/17324362

Q’urBurn ($18.70 USD) — Provides skin comfort and helps relieve pain sensation & skin irritation caused by minor burns. It nourishes the skin, helping to restore the skin barrier system. Useful for skin affected by minor thermal, chemical burns and radiation. Available at http://wwwndc.walmart.com/ip/Q-urBurn-QF-3040-2.3-fl.oz/17324364

Q’urFollica ($12.80 USD) — Helps to relieve burning sensation and skin irritation, as well as prevents inflammation after waxing/shaving. Useful for skin at the bikini & underarm areas after shaving/waxing where ingrown hair or razor burn can occur. Available at http://wwwndc.walmart.com/ip/Q-urFollica-2.3-fl-oz/17324363

What I think: These products are essential for summer mishaps! Their portable sizes are perfect for first aid kits for travel and to keep at home. My kids (and husband) always come to me with boo-boo’s, and the Q’urSkin is like an effective spray bandaid. The Q’urBurn relieves the pain (campfire’s anyone?) and the Q’urFollica does help with razor burn!

Feel Good About Your Beauty Routine With Natural Products

There are so many wonderful natural beauty products on the market these days include natural skincare and hair care. I find that not only are these products better for you, they are very effective.

Below are some of my current favorite natural hair care and skin care. Leave a comment letting me know some of your favorites — I would love ideas for what to try next!

L'Occitane Peony Collection — L’Occitane Peony Collection

The peony, known as the “king of flowers” is valued for its unparalleled beauty and rarity. Embracing the absolute perfection of this elegant bloom, L’OCCITANE’s newest skincare collection helps to achieve a natural-looking complexion with their proprietary, Perfecting Peony Complex. Peony extract and mineral-based optical correctors help to visibly correct skin texture irregularities and minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines for stunningly beautiful, luminous skin.

What I think: I have been testing (and loving) this collection. The products left to right are the Peony Perfecting Essence, the Peony CC Skin Tone Perfecting Cream, the Peony Perfecting Cream and the Peony Perfecting Mist. They all have a lovely light floral scent. Used together, the skin care leaves my skin soft and glowing. The CC cream starts out white and blends to my skin tone. It gives a nice light coverage and my skin is smooth and even with use.

Learn more and purchase at usa.loccitane.com.

Mad Hippie Eye Cream ($24.99 USD) — From the dreaded crows feet to those tiring bags under the eyes, uniting the power of peptides & antioxidants, this product packs a punch. Contains a peptide formula that reduces dark circles under the eyes. Works to strengthen capillaries & veins, while increasing lymphatic drainage & circulation. Effectively increases firmness and elasticity of skin, while reducing swelling.

What I think: This is such a light cream that instantly absorbs into my skin. It hydrates the skin under my eyes and helps make the fine lines less noticeable. I use it day and night (I’m never without an eye cream). This one is affordable and works really well (and it’s natural)!

http://www.madhippie.com

Oil Essentials ($12.99 USD): A collection of natural beauty oils that nourish and heal to deliver healthy, shiny hair and youthful hands and nails. Packed with powerful yet gentle extracts from Mother Nature’s most nourishing plants and fruits, these luxurious oils inspire the senses with essential oils while providing glowing beauty benefits. These oils are free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic colors and are safe for sensitive skin. Oil Essentials is complete with six different oils to deliver outstanding results:

Argan & Wheat Germ – Aqua
Omega 3,6,9 & Evening Primrose
Neroli & Avocado
Seabuckthorn Berry & Borage
Sweet Almond & Macadamia
Lavender & Rose Hip

What I think: I always like to have natural oils around for my hair, cuticles and elbows. All of the above oils will moisturize and heal, but my favorite is the Sweet Almond & Macadamia because it prevents loss of moisture in hair and skin. It smells amazing. I love how it sinks into my skin and leaves it so soft!

Available at Walmart, HEB and Riteaid stores, as well as Riteaid.com. The company website is www.oilessentialsbeauty.com.

Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Cleansing Conditioner — Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Conditioning Cleanser

Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Collection ($7.99 USD): An alternative to harsh shampoos and conditioners. The multi-purpose sulfate and paraben-free cleansers are formulated to rebalance natural oils with pure ingredients, leaving hair clean, soft and full of body. The single step hair care regimen replaces shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, and leave-in conditioner with these amazing sulfate-free Conditioning Cleansers.

What I think: I have been testing the Conditioning Cleanser for Dry or Damaged Hair. It smell creamy and a little spicy — the scent is Moroccan Macadamia. I use it in place of shampoo and conditioner, I just work it in my wet hair, leave it in for a few minutes and rinse. My hair is soft and manageable afterwards and is not left dry by shampoo.

Available at http://www.walgreens.com, Walgreens and Duane Reade stores.

My Beauty Favorites Week of May 11-May 17, 2015

It’s getting close to summer in Kansas City. Hot, humid and stormy! But, I am still loving trying new products, especially ones that will make me look and feel fabulous to and through summer.

This week I’m loving a new holistic makeup brand, a fast new hair dryer, and skin-smoothing skincare and an amazing smelling bath oil.

Geri G. offers a whole system of products that offer a holistic approach to nourishing and hydrating the skin, including foundation, a multi-purpose canvas, plush mascara, lip-gloss creme, and even complimentary nutritional components.

What I think: I have been testing the Transceutical Canvas, the Innocent Foundation and the Lip Gloss Crème. The canvas is like a primer that leaves your skin glowing and keeps makeup looking fresh all day. The foundation is a little sheer for me, but the canvas keeps it on all day. I think it will be perfect in the summer when I don’t want to wear heavy foundation. And, I love the lip gloss! It is very moisturizing and stays on for a while. The color is sheer, but very pretty!

Learn more and purchase at http://www.gerigla.com.

Jose Eber Quickshine Infrared Blow Dryer ($159 USD) — Get dry lustrous hair fast with this portable, professional grade dryer. This versatile blow dryer uses the gentle hear of Far Infrared light to dry beginning deep within the hair cuticle, decreasing drying time safely by more than 50%. The days of dry damaging heat, burns and hot spots are over with the Quickshine and you can say hello to shiny and smooth hair, fast!

What I think: Love this blow dryer! It is compact so it’s easy to use and dries my hair very fast. The very red light at the mouth of the blow dryer is a bit scary, but it is not as hot as it looks. Plus, there is a cool air button that you can use to add shine to your hair.

Available at shop.joseeberhair.com

New NIP+FAB's Glycolic Fix Products — New NIP+FAB’s Glycolic Fix Products

NIP+FAB Glycolic Instant Fix Mask ($12.95 USD) — Resurface, retexture and renew instantly with this gel like mask to leave your skin radiant, blemish free and visibly smoother. A favourite of Kylie Jenner’s, NIP+FAB’s highest level of glycolic acid combines with EVERMAT™ technology to gently smooth away the appearance of lines and wrinkles, whilst clearing and reducing the look of enlarged pores.

NIP+FAB Glycolic No Needle Fix Serum ($19.95 USD) — No Needle Fix is a revolutionary, intensive plumping and volumizing serum that fills fine lines, smoothes wrinkles and reduces the appearance of imperfections, improving skin’s overall tonicity and elasticity.

What I think: I’ve found that both of theses products work to smooth skin tone. My pores and wrinkles appeared smaller as soon as I first tried the mask.

Available at CVS, ULTA and Target stores nationwide

Rituals Fortune Oil ($15 USD) — The shower oil becomes a silky soft foam, leaving your skin beautifully soft. The ingredients Sweet Orange & Cedar produce a wonderfully warm fragrance. The shower oil helps you keep your summer tan for longer. The oil hydrates your skin in the shower, so that you lose less pigment.

What I think: This oil is really fun to use. In the shower it turns in to a foam and after you wash, it rinses clean. My skin is left soft and smooth. Plus, the scent is amazing it is both warm and sweet.

Purchase at us.rituals.com

Protect Your Skin This Spring and Summer With New SPF Products

I have been getting ready for the upcoming sunny seasons by making sure I am stocked up with SPF — in my facial care, lip care and body care. I am even stockpiling products that help after a day in the sun. Here are my new faves:

Coola Liplux SPF 15 Vanilla Peppermint

Coola Sport Continuous Spray SPF 50 Unscented

Coola Environmental Repair Plus Calm Glow Eye Gel

Coola is one of my favorite sunscreen brands. If you like scented sunscreen, the scents are amazing, but if you need unscented products they have them as well. The three products above are amazing! The Liplux SPF 15 Vanilla Peppermint ($12 USD) is really refreshing and protects lips from the sun. With the unscented Sport spray ($36 USD) I can run around all day and not worry about burning, plus it has skincare benefits. The Environmental Repair Plus Eye Gel will soothe burnt eyelids and repair, too! Available at http://www.coolasuncare.com

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Range is very affordable and effective. Renowned for its Cocoa Butter chops for decades, Palmer’s has harnessed all of the incredible skin care benefits of this super ingredient (in prime-pressed, unrefined form) into a five-piece collection of suncare products that effectively protects skin, keeping it free from discoloration and spots associated with UV exposure. All of the products are formulated with Palmer’s proprietary Cocoaplex™ Technology, which optimizes the skin-friendly properties of Cocoa Butter all while enhancing the sunscreen emulsification. The products are:

SPF 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion – Retails for $7
SPF 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray – Retails for $9
SPF 15 Moisturizing Sunscreen Balm – Retails for $6
SPF 45 Moisturizing Sunscreen for Face – Retails for $7
SPF 50 Sunscreen Stick – Retails for $4

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Range is Available Exclusively at Wal-Mart Stores Nationwide.

NO-AD Sport Body & Face Sunscreen Stick ($6.99 USD) — Convenient wide-format stick keeps hands clean and ready for any sport or outdoor activity. Ultra-lightweight formula goes on clear with no white mess. Great for the body, yet gentle and light enough for the face. Fragrance-free, nonirritating formula is great for sensitive skin. Same quantity as national brands for a value price. This is a clear, light balm that is easy to apply and contains SPF 50. I light to use a spray sunscreen, then layer this on the areas that burn easily like my shoulders, tops of legs and nose. Available at Wal-Mart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Rite-Aid, Kroger, Publix, Winn-Dixie, HEB, BI-LO, www.wal-mart.com, www.drugstore.com, and other retail and online stores throughout the USA.

Safe Harbor Sunscreen ($9.99 USD): An advanced range of sun care products for adults and children complete with a mineral zinc oxide-based formula that naturally protects skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. With a focus on providing the most natural, effective and chemical-free suncare, the products also include titanium dioxide for an additional level of sun protection and a rich blend of ingredients such as red algae, green tea, sea buckthorn, and jojoba for added antioxidant benefits.

I tested the 30 Mineral SPF Sensitive Lotion. As I applied it, I noticed that it feels like a luxe skincare lotion, not SPF. It applies clear and absorbs instantly. I do have sensitive skin and it did not irritate my skin at all.

Purchase at Walmart stores.

Avon ANEW Vitale Day Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 25

Don’t forget the facial sunscreen! Avon ANEW combines SPF and skincare Vitale Day Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 25 ($28 USD) — Introducing Anew Vitale, powered by VitaToneComplex. Revive tired-looking skin after just one use. Now you can visibly reduce dullness, improve clarity and restore the well-rested look of a full-night’s sleep. I like that it is not greasy and that it instantly smooths the skin and gives an even skin tone. The SPF 25 protects while the cream treats tired skin. Available at http://www.avon.com Readers, please leave a comment and let me know what sunscreens you are using.

Innovative New Skincare To Improve Your Complexion This Spring

In the summer, it gets so hot in Kansas City that I don’t wear a lot of makeup. Because of this, I like my skincare to be in tip-top shape by summer.

I have been using the luxe skincare products below for a couple of weeks and my skin looks better than it has in a while! With all of these products, my pores are looking much smaller, my skin is clear and has an even tone, it is so soft and my little wrinkles are almost gone. These products may be a bit costly, but they are worth it!

Babor Reversive Anti-Aging Cream Rich ($185 50ml) — ReVersive is unique, as it contains a high-performance formula with four active ingredients that interact in perfect synergy. Designed as a complete anti-aging system, ReVersive restores youthful radiance and luminosity, leaving the complexion looking firmer and smoother with a beautifully even appearance. This slightly richer, soft-textured cream is ideal for dry skin, and can also be used as night cream to pamper the skin.

What I think: This is a rich cream that is not greasy at all! It absorbs into the skin leaving it so soft. I love using this at night over a potent serum to lock in moisture and make skin smooth and hydrated by morning.

Available in the world’s finest spas and at www.babor.com.

Intraceuticals The Opulence Collection provides powerful ingredients to dually target existing hyperpigmentation and prevent the formation of future spots, all while keeping the overall health of the skin in mind. Vitamin A gently promotes cell turnover and natural exfoliation to diminish the appearance of dark stops. Vitamin C works alongside Vitamin A to promote brightening benefits, while also providing super antioxidant benefits. Nonapeptide-1, the latest and greatest tyrosinase inhibitor available, assists in the long term defense of unwanted discoloration and control of brown spots and overall skin tone. All this while 3 layers of hyaluronic acid visibly hydrate and plump the skin for a healthier, more youthful appearance.

The new Intraceuticals Opulence collection, which includes the Opulence Daily Serum ($149 USD), sulfate free Brightening Cleanser ($49 USD), Hydration Gel ($89 USD), Moisture Binding Cream ($69 USD) and Brightening Wand ($49 USD) are available now at http://intraceuticals.com/.

What I think: I do have some brown spots on my face and so I was excited to try this line! My favorite products are the Hydration Gel and the Brightening Wand, because they both are such unique products. I use the Hydration Gel after serum and it really helps hydrate and even out my skin tone. I have been using the Brightening Wand on brown spots and have seen a bit of a lightening effect, which I hope will lighten even more as I continue using it.

Nassif MD Bio-Bundle Clock AM, Clock PM and Dawn to Dusk

Nassif MD Bio-Bundle Clock AM, Clock PM & Dawn to Dusk ($225 USD) — You can either purchase these three products separately or in a bundle. They are:

Clock AM Day Serum ($95 USD) synchronizes with the skin’s daytime biorhythms and defends the skin from environmental assault, including the newest types of UV radiation (cell phones, tablets and laptops) known as HEV (High Energy Visible) light. The key benefits of Clock AM include shielding the skin against hidden causes of premature aging, elasticity loss and wrinkles. It noticeably boosts skin hydration as well as helps firm the skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines.

Clock PM Night Serum ($95 USD) is full of beneficial mega-complexes for the rejuvenation, detoxification and recovery of skin during our rest phase. In only a few hours, liposome-delivered Roxisomes™ dive deep to help support the skin’s natural repair of damage from oxygen free radicals that occurs during the day. When combined with the nighttime biorhythm’s reparative mode, the skin is genuinely restored to preserve its youthful glow. The hero ingredient Astaxanthin acts as a potent antioxidant bolstering cellular resistance to environmental toxins. Matrixyl Synthe-6, a fortifying peptide, helps stimulate collagen production, contributing to firm, smooth skin. During sleep, recovering cells and the epidermal matrix are infused with essential sustenance for skin regeneration, restoration and renewal.

Dawn To Dusk Exfoliating Cleaner ($35 USD) is the perfect start to our skincare system. The jojoba and ivory palm seed spheres instantly rid the skin of dead cells and surface impurities, revealing a glowing and radiant skin that’s primed for intense nourishment and treatment. The main ingredients are Ivory Palm Seed, Jojoba, Pomegranate, Panethenol and Allantoin.

What I think: I have been using these three products for a couple of weeks and I love them. The cleanser is extremely gentle, and makes my skin so soft and clean without irritating it at all. Both serums instantly smooth and soften my skin.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.nassifmdskincare.com/products.

Patchology FlashPatch Eye Gels

Patchology FlashPatch Eye Gels ($50 USD) — When time isn’t on your side FlashPatch™ Eye Gels revive tired, fatigued eyes in just 5 minutes. Hydrogel patch technology provides deep hydration and eye revitalization in a way that topical creams or serums cannot.

Highly advanced cooling and refreshing translucent hydrogel patches accelerate the delivery of essential ingredients Caffeine and Hydrolyzed Collagen. Stay-put patches ensure you get the ingredients where you need them most. The result is a smoother, brighter, more youthful appearance. Included: 30 Pairs of FlashPatch Eye Gels

What I think: These are so cool (LOL, they literally cool the skin around your eyes)! They feel amazing when applied and really de-puff eyes. Plus you get a bunch — 30 pairs is a lot!

Available at http://www.neimanmarcus.com.

Last Minute Mother’s Day Skincare Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day is just a week away! Have you purchased something for Mom yet? I think skincare is a great idea for her and for any woman that you want to pamper this month. Not only is it nice to try something new, this is a gift that will make her feel better inside and out!

Below are products and sets that may be perfect for a special lady this Mother’s Day:

Marula Pure Beauty Oil ($15 for 0.23 oz, $58 for 1 oz, $78 for 1.69 oz) — Specially formulated for the face and neck, premium Marula Oil is a naturally soothing treatment that provides intense hydration, protection, and rejuvenation to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for soft, radiant skin. It is suitable for all skin types and contains a high content of fatty acids, resulting in fast absorption to leave skin smooth with a matte finish. Clinically proven to contain a great deal of antioxidants and omega acids, it can be used alone as a highly effective anti-aging moisturizer, added to other facial products to boost their efficacy, soothe skin after facial treatments or sunburn, or used as a perfect makeup primer. The deliciously fresh scent that stems from a one percent essential oil blend and provides a total sensory experience upon application, then dissipates so it won’t fight your fragrance.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

Skin Inc Hydrate ‘Em Custom-Blended Serum Mother’s Day Set ($90 USD, a $145 value) — Deeply hydrate dry skin and plump up fine lines with this custom-blend of Ceramides, Coenzyme Q10 and Hyaluronic Acid, formulated with Skin Inc’s patented encapsulation technology that releases ingredients only upon application.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.iloveskininc.com.

Dr Jart+ The Original BB Set ($34 USD) — Busy mom? Treat her to an all-in-one beauty fix. Each set contains four of Dr. Jart+’s hero BB’s to help her tackle skincare problems while still providing great coverage.

Learn more at http://www.sephora.com

Le Mieux Skin Perfecter ($189 USD) — The Skin Perfecter uses ultrasonic technology (28,000 ultrasonic vibrations per second) to deeply cleanse pores. The ultrasonic waves create a sudden formation and collapse of bubbles in a liquid form called cavitation. This formation creates a micro-jet like current that increases the permeability of the cell walls, allowing molecules to be more easily transported through the outermost layer of the skin. This in turn pushes out any impurities and cellular debris.

Purchase at www.skinperfecter.com

My Beauty Faves Week of April 20-26, 2015

Spring is such a crazy season! It can be rainy one day, then sunny and warm the other. And don’t get me started on seasonal allergies…which is my least favorite part of spring!

I have been trying lots of different types of beauty products this week and thought I would review a random sample of my favorites. The one common denominator is that they are all fairly affordable and easy to find.

Below, you’ll find foaming shower gel, an affordable anti-aging skincare collection, beauty tools, fun eyelashes and

Rituals Zensation Foaming Shower Gel ($15 USD) — Zensation combines Organic Rice Milk, a natural ingredient that nourishes the skin and leaves it silky soft, with Cherry Blossom, the Japanese symbol of purity. Squeeze a small amount of gel into your hand – contact with water transforms the gel into a rich, relaxing foam.

What I think: I love this scent — it smells fresh and sweet, perfect for spring! It foams up in the shower and leaves the skin smelling amazing! I am obsessing over all of the Rituals scents I have tried!

Available at us.rituals.com.

For affordable and effective skincare, try the NEW Skin+Pharmacy Anti-Aging Collection. This clinically-tested line features time-release and UV-protective technology to target the visible signs of aging, and includes retinol day and night moisturizers, retinol eye creams, glycolic cream cleansers, and glycolic day moisturizer ($12-$20).

What I think: So far, my favorite product from this line is the Skin + Pharmacy Advanced Anti-Aging Therapy Glycolic Peel Pads ($20 USD). They are very easy to use — wipe clean face thoroughly with pad, leave product on for 10 minutes (less if your skin is sensitive) then wash off. Skin is smooth and glowing and pores look so much smaller! Love these and really love the price (20 for $20).

Learn more and purchase at http://www.cvs.com and CVS stores near you.

Beauty 360 Ergo Buffer ($5.99 USD) — Is a part of a new, premium beauty tools line available at CVS stores. This a 3-in-1 tool that shapes, smoothes, and shines nails, this 75-piece line delivers the ultimate in quality, precision and convenience!

What I think: This is so easy to get shaped and smoothed nails. It take a little time to get used to the design, but one you do, it’s a lot of fun! You can shape on one side, smooth on the other, and the inside is the shine buffer. I like to keep mine in my purse for nail emergencies.

Purchase and learn more about the line at http://www.cvs.com

A heritage brand 65 years in the making, Eylure is widely respected. From creating Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra look to collaborating with Katy Perry, the brand offers an elegant range of quality lash categories to cater to the individual consumer. As the first lash brand to come to market in 1947, the lash experts at Eylure present a collection with a concise range of eight categories that encompass every lash occasion. The eight categories, cover both strip, individual, and pre glued lashes.

What I think: These are so affordable! From $3.49 for the Katy Perry lashes to $9.99 for multiple lash packs, you can change your lash look whenever you wish! They are very easy to apply and include lash glue.

Available at Target, Ulta and Kohl’s.

An improved formula delivers extended wear and enhanced shine — still with the one stroke, one coat convenience that has made Sally Hansen Insta-Dri a cult favorite since 2009. Insta-Dri’s three-in-one formula combines base coat, color, and top coat in one bottle, making it even easier to have a glossy manicure in a minute. It dries in just 60 seconds, creating full-coverage color and shine without the wait.

The new spring shades are Re-teal Therapy, Plummet, In Nude-tral, Cherry Fast, Navy Fleet, Show Steel-er, Making Mauves, Leapin’ Lilac, Black to Black, Ablazing!, Quick Fire, Set Sail, Cocoa A Go Go, and Orange Zest.

What I think: I love how easy this is to apply and how fast it dries. Remember though, more coats means more drying time! I have been enjoying the softer colors like In Nude-tral and Making Mauves. But, the brighter colors are really nice on toe nails as sandal-season approaches.

Available at mass market retailers near you.

NYC New York Color 24 HR Waterproof Eye Shadow ($2.99 USD) This retractable chubby has a unique, pigment-packed formula for 24-hour waterproof wear. Color glides on smooth and stays crease-proof all day and all night. Try using it as a liner, or smudge with your finger for a smoky effect. Available shades: Wall Street Bronze, Brooklyn Mocha, Tribeca Taupe, 5th Ave Gold Rush, Murray Hill Champagne, Rockefeller Center Snowflakes, Empire State Building, New York At Night, Central Park Tulips, East River Romance and Madison Square Park.

What I think: If you like cream eyes shadows, these are affordable and easy to use. Plus, there is an array of pretty, natural shades for every day wear. The only thing is that they don’t spread very easily and need some working with to cover well. But for $2.99 each, grab a few and play!

Available at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

What products are you loving this week? Leave a comment and let me know!

My Beauty Faves Week of April 13-19, 2015

We are experiencing rain and storms in Kansas City (April’s showers), but it is fairly warm and everything is green. I’m really starting to take care of my skin to get it ready for the warmer weather ahead!

This week I have been loving innovative skincare. From spa-like treatments to a luxe serum to a spray on primer, I have tried fab products this week that have really changed my skin!

Radical Skincare Instant Revitalizing Mask

Radical Skincare Age Defying Exfoliating Pads

Radical Skincare Skin Perfecting Screen SPF 30

Radical Skincare Instant Revitalizing Mask ($65 USD) — is a spa treatment in a bottle. This foaming mask for all skin types restores, stimulates and boosts skin’s radiance. Apply like a serum and wait- it will start to bubble (like champagne on the skin!). The mask works by release nutrients into the skin- you’ll see more activity in the areas where your skin needs it most. A unique formula helps maintain optimal oxygen levels, distribution and consumption to stimulate the skin’s energy production so it can function at its best.

Radical Skincare Age Defying Exfoliating Pads ($75 USD) — use AHA and BHA to gently exfoliate and support natural cell turnover, working to tighten and firm skin, reduce the appearance of pore size and lines, and preserve skin’s hydration and nourishment. Excess sebum is also removed while leaving the good oils to nourish and hydrate the skin. Enriched with chamomile for soothing and calming, it is perfect for sensitive skin.

Radical Skincare Skin Perfecting Screen SPF 30 ($55 USD) — With 100% non-chemical SPF 30 protection, the perfect texture and crushed diamond powder for a soft reflective property, you’ll want put this SPF on every time the sun comes out. Light diffusing pigments reduce the appearance of wrinkles and imperfections, antioxidants fight aging and the ultra-light texture makes it easy to apply and use with any type of makeup.

What I think: All three of these products are so different than anything I have used before! The mask is fun to use and leave my skin really soft, as do the exfoliating pads. Both products can be used a couple of times a week for really smooth skin. The skin perfecting screen gives SPF along with brightening the skin!

These products are available at http://www.sephora.com and Sephora stores.

VENeffect Firming Phyto-Lift Serum ($195 USD) — This potent, highly effective anti-aging treatment serum dramatically enhances skin tone and firmness. The unique formula is packed with 100% natural oat extract to firm the skin, while the exclusive phytoestrogen technology brightens, enhances skin tone, and dramatically boosts elasticity. Free of silicone, alcohol or fragrance, this serum is a highly active first step in the treatment regimen, working in synergy with VENeffect Anti-Aging Moisturizer for longer lasting moisture and firmer skin.

What I think: I have tested a sample of this and really like how it sunk into my skin and gave me an instant glow. I would have to use it more to see if it firms, but I could tell it was a very luxe product!

Purchase at http://www.veneffect.com

Skindinavia The Makeup Primer Spray ($35 for 4 oz) — Pore-clogging silicone primers have no place on your face! Get perfect makeup now and a virtually poreless, more even-toned complexion later. This lightweight, silicone-free primer mist delivers a smooth canvas for impeccable, long-wear makeup application, and offers long-term skin benefits you’ll love as well! Available in Original and Oil-Control formulations for dry/combination and oily skin types.

What I think: This primer is easy to use and really evens out my skintone! I also find that my makeup lasts longer when I apply before my foundation.

Learn more and purchase at http://www.skindinavia.com

What new skincare products are you loving this week? Leave a comment and let me know!

Fab Natural Beauty Products Perfect For Earth Day!

Earth Day is this Wednesday, April 22nd. One thing I love to do for Earth Day is to try natural and organic products and products that have earth-friendly packaging.

Below are great natural skincare and cosmetics, plus a fabulous bath wash duo that includes a refill pouch.

What natural products do you like to use? Leave a comment and let me know!

Sibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil ($15.95) — Sea buckthorn seed oil has long been used as a traditional beauty treatment to preserve youthful skin tone and texture. It is a secret remedy to fight wrinkles and age spots so you may (or may not) want to share it with your friends. This therapeutic grade seed oil will help restore damaged skin to its natural beautiful state.

Quick acting/readily absorbed
For all skin-types
Helps diminish wrinkles/age-spots
Promotes skin recovery and healing
10 ml bottle w/ dropper tip

100% therapeutic-grade Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil for topical use on ailments. Available at http://www.sibubeauty.com.

Tammy Fender Quintessential Serum

Tammy Fender Epi-Peel

Tammy Fender Antioxidant Crème Neroli and Orange

All of Tammy Fender Holistic Skin Care’s formulas are Pure Living Energy® for the skin – a collection of pure, organic custom blended skin care products. The products are created from the energy of the earth, plant oils and beneficial vitamins and nutrients.

Tammy Fender Quintessential Serum: This cult classic was the first of its kind, containing only quintessential forms of natural ingredients which work together to fight the signs of aging, keep skin moisturized and strengthen skin cells. With nutrient oils and pure essential oils such as Rose Hip Seed Oil, Avocado Oil and Bulgarian Rose Oil, this serum strengthens collagen, reduces wrinkles and protects the skin from UV rays. ($175)
Tammy Fender Epi-Peel: For a smooth complexion, simply coat and dry your skin with this clay mask and peel it off five minutes later. Enriched with hibiscus and grape seed oils, this peel relieves irritation, promotes circulation and removes toxins from the skin. ($80)
Tammy Fender Antioxidant Crème Neroli & Orange: This multi-vitamin-in-a-jar is prized for its nourishing, anti-oxidant and collagen-stimulating benefits. Neroli helps heal scar tissue, improve elasticity and balance overactive sebum. Calming and grounding, sweet orange enhances the skins immunity and hydration while plant butters moisturize and naturally filter UV light. ($95)

Purchase at www.tammyfender.com.

L’Occitane Almond Shower Refill Duo ($87.50 USD) — Refill your Almond Shower Oil whenever you need to thanks to this duo! Reduce, Reuse, and Refill. The Almond Shower Oil transforms, when in contact with water, into a delicate foam that gently cleanses the body. Enriched with almond oil, it respects the hydrolipidic film and leaves a subtle and mouth-watering scent of fresh almond, for a delightful skin!

This duo includes:
– Almond Shower Oil 16.9 fl.oz
– Almond Shower Oil Refill 16.9 fl.oz

Available at usa.loccitane.com

Physician's Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin BB Bigger! Better! Lashes Mascara — Physician’s Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin BB Bigger! Better! Lashes Mascara

Physician’s Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin BB Bigger! Better! Lashes ($9.95 USD) Revolutionary 100% Natural Origin multi-tasking BB formula builds Bigger, Better Lashes so you do not have to sacrifice volume for length or definition for drama. 24 hour wear. 2-in-1 multi-tasking brush. 100% Natural Origin. 70% Organic. 100% Natural color pigments. 100% Natural preservatives.

Learn more at http://www.physiciansformula.com.