Get to bed a little easier with Vita Sciences Maxasorb Melatonin

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing/reviewing. I am not affiliated with this company, nor am I being financially compensated for this review. All words and opinions are my own.*

I am a night owl.  For some reason my creative juices kick in at night...which equals out to long hours spent working, writing, reading at night, and this has caused my sleep schedule to become unstructured.  The body and its circadian rhythms (sleep cycle) are controlled by Melatonin, a hormone created by the Pineal Gland in your brain.  Melatonin is what regulates your day-night cycles and ensures that you are awake by day, asleep by night.  But when you have an erratic sleep schedule like I do, you offset the rhythm and then you have problems getting to sleep.

Vita Sciences has come up with an ingenious way of getting Melatonin to us to aid in getting to bed...

Maxasorb Melatonin is a lotion that delivers 3 milligrams of Melatonin per full pump.  The bottle is an airless dispenser made out of sturdy plastic.  The push mechanism is easy to press and also easy to control.  The tube itself comes with 50ml/1.7 fl.oz of cream, that is enough for 60 doses.  Maxasorb Melatonin retails for $29.95, but it is on sale right now for $19.95 USD.

"Each measured dose of Maxasorb Melatonin lotion from our airless dispenser delivers 3 milligrams of Melatonin with a full press of the pump.  Just before bedtime, rub the easily absorbed, odorless lotion on your arms or legs.  For travelers trying to ease the effects of jet lag, apply Maxasorb Melatonin lotion the day of travel close to the target bedtime at your destination.  This will aid in falling asleep faster, improves alertness during the day, and reduces daytime fatigue.  Use the product throughout the trip and for a week after return to help your body readjust its natural sleep cycle.  Natural ingredients assure this lotion is gentle to your skin".   - http://www.vitasciences.com/

Maxasorb Melatonin Tube

Maxasorb Melatonin - lotion texture

I use a pump of this about 30 minutes before I go to bed to aid in helping me fall asleep.  I usually start feeling a bit sleepy/drowsy and then boom!  I am out like a light.  I find that this, in addition to me regulating when I go to sleep, really does help in getting me to sleep.  The lotion is thick, but absorbs quickly and leaves the skin soft.  There is no scent to the lotion.  I have not experienced any reactions on my skin with this lotion on and it does not conflict with other body lotions I use.

When I focus on getting my sleep cycles back to normal, it is a joy to know that Maxasorb helps get me there fast and safe!  I am experiencing better and longer sleep and am waking up refreshed.  Now, let's just see if we can get those creative juices to flow earlier!

"These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease". - vita sciences

To learn more about Maxasorb Melatonin, Vita Sciences or any other of their products go HERE.


*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing/reviewing. I am not affiliated with this company, nor am I being financially compensated for this review. All words and opinions are my own.*

Zoya: New summer offer - Get Any 3 polishes for the price of shipping!!!

Do you love Zoya nail polishes as much as I do?  They have an amazing offer going on right now!

Right now on Zoya's website, you can choose any 3 polishes for the price of shipping!!!  Shipping is $15, so that works out to $5 a bottle, which is an amazing deal!  Use code KICK at check out!  This offer expires 6/14/2015.

Head to zoya.com for color choices and details!  Happy Shopping :)

Amara Organics Hyaluronic Acid Serum - heavyweight hydration! (review)

*DISCLAIMER - Item(s) sent by company for the purposes of testing and review.  All words and opinions are my own.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.*

As my quest for better looking skin continues, I had the opportunity to try a serum that is natural, organic and packs a huge punch of moisturization...

Amara Organics are a small, family owned business that brings to you skincare containing carefully chosen natural and organic ingredients.  Their line has 5 products, for skin and eye areas, with ingredients ranging from vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, fruit stem cells, peptides and more.  What I have for you today is the Amara Organics Hyaluronic Acid Serum with vitamins C and E.

Amara Organics Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a clear, semi viscous liquid contained in a clear glass bottle.  You get 1 fl. oz/30ml. of liquid product.  This serum retails for $17.95 USD.

"This serum is a concentrated delivery system for the highest quality botanically derived hyaluronic acid, with powerful antioxidants Vitamin C & E, for beautiful skin".   - Amara Organics
Hyaluronic Acid is known to be a powerful hydrator in products.  In this serum, coupled with vitamins C and E and other essentials, it becomes a super boost of hydration for plumper, moisturized skin.

Benefits:
 - plumps and hydrates skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
 - locks in moisture, giving skin a dewy, supple glow
 - boosts collagen production, restoring skin's natural elasticity
 - softens and smooths for a more even skin tone
 - leaves skin looking radiant and youthful
(source - Amara Organics)

This lightweight serum quickly absorbed into my skin, leaving it soft, cool and super plump!  I did not experience any stickiness afterwards which made for other skincare and makeup applications issue free.  There is a slight herbal scent to the serum that quickly dissipates after application.  I have been using this for about a month and I wake up to softer skin, a more clearer complexion, and a hydrated look.  I have only recently brought it down to my neck, followed by my neck cream to see if I can improve the area there.  A post with photos of before and afters will come soon.  What I really love about this serum is just how much light hydration is has brought into my skin.  I am a habitual skin treatment user, everything from masks to peels to scrubs, and this serum has allowed for those treatments to go to work, but not dry me out as others have done in the past.  Perfect summer hydration for those looking for moisture but not the added heavy feel of a cream.

This serum is natural, vegan and cruelty free as well :)

You can learn more about Amara Organics, the Hyaluronic Acid Serum and purchase this and other products HERE.


*DISCLAIMER - Item(s) sent by company for the purposes of testing and review.  All words and opinions are my own.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.*

Beauty Blogazon Weekly Roundup 4/19/2015

• Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: Schwarzkopf styling products are a wonderful and affordable choice for effortlessly gorgeous tresses.
• My Highest Self: Tina shares the details on Kiehl's Lip Balm Giftables!
• TheFabZilla: Glowing skin and bright lips, check out TheFabZilla's #getGLOing Spring makeup!
• Kizzy Online: "Balm Chicky Balm Balm” lip balms, now available at Target!
• My Bootiful Beauty: Furless Cosmetics Review
• The Passenger Element: Bring the spa home with Pure&Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask
• Color Me So Crazy: Lip Plumper and EnvyDerm Mascara... Do They Make the Cut??
• Never Say Die Beauty: Allison muses about what she's considering getting at the Sephora Beauty Insider Discount Event

Bring the spa home with Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask

*DISCLAIMER - Product sent by company for the purposes of testing and review.  I am not being financially compensated for this review.  All words and opinions are 100% my own.* *POWERED BY BRANDBACKER*


Home spa nights...one of my most treasured at home treats to indulge in.  Lighting candles, mani-pedi's, a warm bath and facials bring to mind the peace and quiet we all need during our busy weeks.  Being a fan of face masks, I was excited at the chance to try Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask and see how I could incorporate it into my skincare routine!

Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask is mineral rich mud mask known for its healing properties.  Within the sturdy plastic jar, you get 6oz of product.  This can last you up to 30+ applications!  The price of the mask is $24.77, but when you visit Pure and Essential Minerals website, you can get $10 off of your order on Amazon.com!

Pure&Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask

 "The Dead Sea, situated between Israel and Jordan, is 1400 feet below sea level, and the lowers point on the earth's surface.  The healing properties of its mineral-rich mud have been revered for centuries.  This facial mask draws out impurities, toxins, and excess oils leaving your skin feeling soft and clean.  Dead Sea minerals nourish and restore the skin's vitality, stimulate and improve blood circulation, resulting in a wonderful glow.  Used weekly, your skin will look and feel its best." - Pure & Essential Minerals

#deadseafacial product texture

The mud itself is extremely lightweight on the skin.  It feels like a wet, whipped consistency.  There is a rather pungent scent here, but it does dissipate rather quickly upon application.

Dead Sea Mud Mask - mid application

The lovely aspect of this mask is that you do not need to glob on tons of it in order to get results. Here is a thin layer, drying, almost at the point of washing off.  The mask does feel "tight" when it is all dry, but never uncomfortable and when you move, it  "cracks", making facial movements a bit easier.  When you go to rinse the mask, you lightly wet it a bit and then work the mask into the skin.  There are a few bits in there that exfoliate your skin.  So this is like two treatments in one!  A subtle exfoliation along with the impurity clearing mud mask aspect!!!

After Mud Mask Treatment - deadseafacial

This mask has made my skin so much more even that it has been before.  Even in texture and tone.  I do this mask twice a week.  I should note that I am combination-oily, and that is mostly through the t-zone.  Dead Sea Mud Mask has also softened my face.  After treatment, I have experienced a softening layer on my skin that does not irritate, and seeps into my skin soon after.  I love feeling how smooth my skin is!

Those who are looking to add a touch of spa to their routine should look to this mask.  Gentle, effective and easy to use. The mud has worked wonders on my breakouts, especially the cystic acne I am prone to on my chin.  It also leaves you with a fantastic glow...this mud mask is great for circulation.  I am loving my results and cannot wait to see where my texture, tone and pores are in the next few months!

To purchase Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask, check it out on Amazon.com HERE.  You will also get a free E-Book The Natural Skincare Guide!

To learn more about Pure & Essential Minerals, go HERE.

Beauty Blogazon Weekly Roundup 4/5/2015

• TheFabZilla: Bright lips are on trend this Spring! Check out TheFabZilla's picks from the new Giorgio Armani Maharajah collection
• Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: What's better than the gorgeous Milly Zigzag Print iPad Case? Finding it on sale, of course!
• My Highest Self: Tina shares her first impressions on Crepe Erase for dry, aging skin!
• Kizzy Online: My March Favorites and a NeoCell giveaway: I'm giving away my favorite beauty supplements!
• Color Me So Crazy: Some of MY Favorites Products from March... Do You Have Any??
• Beauty on the Bayou: LOCK YOUR MAKEUP IN PLACE - Kat Von D Lock-It Featherweight Primer
• Beauty by Miss L: Simple makeup for fancy dinner party.
• Never Say Die Beauty: Allison shares a wonderful natural, lightweight foundation, Gabriel Moisturizing Liquid Foundation SPF18
• The Passenger Element: Use Essential Oils from head to toe and all around your home with InstaNatural

Add a touch of pureness to your life with InstaNatural's Peppermint and Lemon Essential Oils

*DISCLAIMER - Item(s) sent by company for purposes of testing/review.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.  All words and opinions are 100% my own* *POWERED BY BRANDBACKER*

InstaNatural 100% Pure Essential Oils in Lemon / Peppermint

I am what you call a fragrance fiend!  When I can, I like to have scents everywhere.  That also extends to the products I use on my face, hair and body.  I am very grateful to not be sensitive to scents and that allows me to be able to use fragranced products, or add fragrance to those that that are unscented.  It is also pleasing when you can find scents, such as the oils above, that have benefits to your health.  Let me present InstaNatural's 100% Pure, Natural Peppermint Essential Oil and Lemon Essential Oils.

InstaNatural 100% Pure, Natural Essential Oils

InstaNatural's 100% Pure Essential Oils are enclosed in dark, heavy glass, and come with a dropper top.  In each bottle you will receive 4 oz/120 ml of  pure, essential oil.  These two oils are part of a 3 scent selection that InstaNatural has for their Aromatherapy line.  The 3rd scent is Lavender.  Each bottle retails for $19.97 USD.

Yes, you can use these for aromatherapy, and InstaNatural even has a diffuser that you can use with their oils to diffuse them for a super aromatic and therapeutic treat!  But aside from that, you can use these oils in a variety of ways.

"Our Lemon Essential Oil is extracted from the rinds of lemon, which lends its fresh citrus fragrance.  This cold-pressed oil has a strong bright scent that is both refreshing and uplifting.  Its astringent and purifying properties also make it a great aid to help cleanse and tone the skin, while delivering a boost of vitamin C antioxidant benefits." - instanatural.com

"InstaNatural's Peppermint Essential Oil is a multi-purpose oil that cools, energizes and refreshes the body and mind.  This steam-distilled oil is extracted from dried or fresh leaves from the Mentha Piperita herb, giving a sharp, menthol fragrance.  Its pleasantly sweet and minty aroma makes it a premium choice for aromatherapy to improve the mind and lift the spirits." - instanatural.com

These oils have so many uses...here are two of my most favorite...

There is nothing I love more than a body scrub.  Especially one that is scented with the uplifting smell of lemons!  Here is a scrub I made with sweet almond oil, brown sugar and a few drops of the Lemon Essential Oil.  Softens and energizes me in the shower!

When I'm feeling body tired and I want refreshing boost, I take my favorite unscented body butters or lotions and add the Peppermint Essential Oil to it for a slight tingle on my body and invigorating aromatherapy.  This cools my skin and also soothes tired muscles.

Other favorite uses:
 - placing peppermint essential oil on pulse points and head when studying
 - refilling old wall diffusers by placing a few drops on the wick
 - adding peppermint oil to steam for an exhilarating steam treatment (also excellent when you have sinus issues!
 - adding lemon oil to skincare for added cleansing and additional toning effects
 - placing a few drops of lemon oil with other ingredients for an amazing spray fabric refresher (always testing for colorfastness first :) )

There are a myriad of ways you can use these oils...from body to home, the possibilities are truly endless.

To learn more about the Peppermint and the Lemon Essential Oils from InstaNatural, as well as their other fantastic and natural products, go HERE.


*DISCLAIMER - Item(s) sent by company for purposes of testing/review.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.  All words and opinions are 100% my own* *POWERED BY BRANDBACKER*