5 Steps To Lovely Skin with Purpletale

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by Cupidrop.com as part of their Beauty Pioneer Review program.  I am not being financially compensated for this review.  All words and opinions are 100% my own. Links added are for convenience.*

Okay guys...nothing is more exciting than when I can try out a product from a brand I haven't yet and let you guys know all about it!  Thanks to the wonderful crew over at Cupidrop.com, I am now a part of their 3rd generation #beautifulpioneer program...which means I have the pleasure of reviewing for you Purpletale's 5 Steps To Lovely Skin Mask pack.

Purpletale's 5 Steps Mask pack...its a big one!

Here are the details.  Let's go!

Purpletale 5 Steps To Lovely Skin Complete Facial Solution.
Contains: foam facial cleanser, ampoule, 2 piece hydrogel face mask, facial cream, neck cream.
Retails for $8.00 USD at Cupidrop.com and purpletale.com
Made in Korea.

From Purpletale - "Our 5-step complete facial solution will leave your skin feeling deeply nourished and looking absolutely lovely.  We combined RGII (which is extracted from ginseng saponin through advanced fermentation technology) with peptide complexes (protein fragments that signal the skin to produce more collagen) to leave your skin feeling firm and more radiant." - Purpletale

So this is going to make my skin feel amazing and its convenient?  Alright Purpletale, show me what you got!

Pre skincare.  Let's fix that, shall we?

So pre-treatment face.  Ive only cleaned eye area with micellar water due to eye makeup I was testing out earlier.  Skin is combo/oily.  I have a bit of redness around my cheeks and nose and some scarring from an acne attack about 2 weeks ago.  Oil buildup from being around the house and too lazy to blot my oily face that only you guys would see in this photograph :).

Step 1 - Cream foam cleanser.  No photo as this looked like your average creamy, foamy cleanser.  You need very little to get a good foam out of this.  I used the entire packet and it may have been a bit much as it was hard for me to get a nice foam initially.  My face felt SQUEAKY clean afterward, but also tight and dry.  Scent was a very typical, clean skincare smell.  Pretty and clean.  Not super pleased about that, but let's move on.

Step 2 - Ampoule

The ampoule was awesome.  A runny gel that absorbed into skin soon after application.  Skin was left with a bit of tack, but nothing that was uncomfortable or I felt would hinder the remaining products.  Just as the cleanser, this also shared in that skincare, clean smell.

Step 3 - Mask

Hydrogel mask, how much do I love thee...let me count the ways.  Alright, let me calm down.  5 Steps has a great 2 piece hydrogel mask as step 3.  For my face shape (wide face and big eyes usually make for not fun mask wearing sessions) this mask was a win.  The 2 piece made it easy to maneuver the mask in place to best suit my needs.  The hydrogel is SUPER thin, which is comfortable in the wear category, but tears easily when trying to place it.  I wore this for 30 minutes with no dripping and only slight drying.  There was a nice amount of essence left in the bag which I quickly used on my arms and decolletage.  After wear, skin was left brighter and oh so smooth. I also noticed the redness I had subsided.  The added effect of the hydrogel is that is immensely cooling.  Slight amount of tack left after wear.  This will definitely be in my summertime mask arsenal.



Step 4 - Facial Cream.

As the fourth step, the facial cream sealed in all the work we had previously done.  The texture was somewhere between thin and thick, moisturizing with a decent amount of slip.  Once I had blended it into my skin and let it soak for a sec, I then felt how soft my skin felt.  Felt like a basic cream, but was left with rather awesome results.  *the next morning, woke up to plump and softer skin.  No additional oiliness to report.*


Step 5 - Neck Cream

Same texture as the facial cream and same moisture giving formula. Easy to blend, quick to absorb and left my neck feeling supple.  This did leave behind a residue that I patted off.  With one use, it is hard to see results, but I did appreciate what moisture it imparted.





Results:

Verdict:  For convenience, you can't beat this.  All basic steps you need to address most of your skins needs in one packet.  For those wanting to start a multi-step skincare regimen, you will want to start here!  Everything was pretty easy to use and left me with bright, soft skin.  What else could you ask for?  I give this a 6/10.

To learn more about purpletale and their entire range of products, including this mask, go HERE.

To purchase Purpletale's 5 Steps to Lovely Skin mask or other products, go HERE.

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by Cupidrop.com as part of their Beauty Pioneer Review program.  I am not being financially compensated for this review.  All words and opinions are 100% my own. Links added are for convenience.*

LUKE Mugwort Nose Strip - review

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

I am an avid nose strip user.  Yes, I know there are people who say you should not use them, that they cause more harm than good.  Well, you know what?  I like to use them, I find them effective and continue to use them as an integral part of my skincare routine.  Well, enough of that rant.  Let's get on with the stripping ;)...

I was sent this lovely strip by Skin18.com Natural Beauty Skincare, a lovely site that has tons of skincare from Asian skincare with brands like LUKE, aritaum, leaders, mediheal and more.  The LUKE Nose Strips come in three different varieties (Charcoal, Mugwort and Lemon Tea Tree) and right now retail for just $0.65 cents USD!!!

Beware, nose pore closeup!!! 

Before - there is obvious congestion on my nose.  Pore size is something I also struggle with, which is why I like to keep those suckers as clean as I can.  I washed with a basic, non-abrasive face wash so that I could see the extent of the powers of the strip!

As with all skincare, I followed the steps as stated on the package:
1 wet nose
2 apply strip
3 wait 10-20 minutes
4 remove and enjoy

Its blue, its blue!

This strip dried down so quickly...that was something I was not anticipating.  It adhered to the skin nicely without needing my face to be doused with water.  I will say though, there was a weird herbal, sulfuric scent to this that was a bit disconcerting, but thankfully, subsided quickly.  Removal of the strip was just like any other.  Since this had stuck on good and proper, it did leave my skin a bit red.  But it lifted the demon scum from my pores and for that, I am grateful.

After -

Nose was cleaner and skin was smooth.  Redness went away after a few short minutes and I was happy.  That nose looks a lot more pleasant...doesn't it?

Aftermath:

See those little "trees" sticking out?  Yup.  Goners!!!

Check out what Skin18 has to offer by checking them out HERE.  *not an affiliate link, I am not being paid by skin18*

About Face - the basic ins and outs of my skin

So...before we even start, there will be faces of my naked skin, no filters, no creams, potions or lotions.  Just freshly washed skin.

I've wanted to do this post for such a long time.  First, because I am deep in the throws of a skincare obsession that shows no signs of waning.  And secondly, because I review makeup, I wear it and I need to get better about posting FOTD's, but it would be nice to show you what I am working with.  I am hoping that this goes far in helping someone that may share some similarities with me.

Alright, here we go...

Tanned against my will, freshly washed face, no product

So here is my mugshot.  I recently helped a friend move coming on a week now.  I was much paler before this and now am toasty brown.  Anymore sun and I will definitely be hitting brownie status.  But here we are...lets go down the list of exactly what nature is throwing my way!

*dark circles (horrible sleep schedule that I keep)
*hyperpigmentation (Im sure getting sun the other day didnt help, but I've been getting kind of impatient with pimples and bumps recently, so I have been picking more than I usually do)
*fine lines under the eyes (yup, its starting...but hey, I laugh and smile, sue me.  It shows!)
*texture (bumps all over the place!  I try to keep this in check and though I won some battles, I have not won the war yet :( )
*dryness - another war I have not won yet...moisturizers galore and exfoliation to boot and I have yet to find something that will kill the dryness monster altogether!
*oiliness - don't get me started.  Your typical combo-oily gal, T-zone oily poster child...here I am!

Issues, I haz them

Let's start from the beginning...as a teenager, I was lucky enough (thanks mom and dad) that I did not have a traumatic experience with teenage acne.  Mom started me on Noxema cream from a very early age, that and okay, yeah, I let her pick my face.  I attribute the condition of my skin then to those two things.  Slightly oily in the tzone, normal everywhere else, I had no trouble with any makeup or skincare I decided to add to my routine.  I state confidently that I had normal, not in the slightest sensitive, great skin.  This followed throughout my 20's, with hormonal acne taking a bigger bite out of my face, but nothing I could not handle.  Then came my late 20's to early 30's....and here is where it got ... weird.

Texture and peach fuzz galore!

In my 30's, my skin changed quite a bit.  Gone were the days where I could slather whatever lotion or foundation I could get my hands on and not experience any changes with my skin.  I started to experience sensitivities that I had not in my younger years.  Redness around my nose, dry patches on cheeks, forehead, and corners of mouth, hyperpigmentation, texture that I could not exfoliate off, increased pore size, fine lines (which I expected though).  I am sure there are a myriad of other details but hey, I'm sensitive :p.

I am hoping this gives you a good look into my specific makeup and helps you and I track what future skincare works or doesn't.  You may have my issues, maybe more, maybe less, but let's see if we can't get to a much more improved state together!  I decided to take a break from a lot of the previous skincare I was using to cleanse my skin and also to introduce new products.

You guys will see all the new things I am obsessing over soon :)

Let's start this journey...shall we?

xo, D

Get your skin glowing for summer with Valentia's Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask

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

The weather is getting warmer, layers of clothes are coming off, we are shaving our legs again (come on gals, let's not be shy about that lol), and out beauty routine is looking for lighter alternatives.  Once those degrees start rising, I begin looking for skincare that will continue to treat me, as my winter routine does, but in a much subtler way.  A part of that routine is a weekly clay mask and thankfully Valentia's Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask is hitting the high marks!

Valentia's Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask is one of Valentia's newest products featuring a pretty sweet array of ingredients!
"Kaolin Clay - Clay minerals draw impurities, improve skin tone, and tighten pores for smoother, firmer skin.
Plant Stem Cells - Naturally decreases the level of pro-aging toxins and works to soothe the skin, reduce redness, and improve evenness.
Spirulina - A botanical stimulant full of vitamins that hydrate the skins surface and contributes to tissue regeneration of the skin.
CoQ - Lessens the appearance of wrinkles by reducing free radical damage and stimulating healthy collagen production.
Hibiscus & Cranberry Fibers - Both lend their anti-aging properties to firm and reinforce the skin, helping to reduce the creation of new wrinkles." - c/o Valentia

Valentia Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask

Basics:

4 fl.oz / 120ml of Clay Mask contained in a plastic, screwtop tub.  Mask retails for $25.00 USD.  Can be purchased on amazon.com and Valentia's website.

Granules in clay mask

Texture is that of a more wet clay mask.  Really cooling and easy to spread on the skin.  The granules are a bit bigger than I would like, but as long as I am careful, they get the exfoliation I need done without hurting/scratching my skin.  This mask is pretty scented, so those sensitive to scents may want to test first.  It is really fruity, heavy on cherry notes, and really wakes you up!  The scent does not linger on skin once removed.

Mask stays wet for longer than most clay masks to aid in allowing you to exfoliate.  Once you are dong applying the mask to your skin, it does dry down.  I found it nice that this mask did not get super hard and I was still able to move my face.

Once removed, skin GLOWS!  And is super hydrated.  I had the added benefit of those granules at work that gave me a super smooth feel to my skin.  Skincare I used after this mask sank in better and makeup application was smoother and looked less cakey and textured.  Pores were cleaner, this really does a nice job at drawing out impurities without drying the skin.

If you are one to turn clay masks away, please give Valentia's Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask a chance.  A clay mask that helps with drawing our impurities, helps with texture and also hydrates?  Sounds good to be true, but it is with this lovely mask!

To learn more about Valentia and their range of products, go HERE

To purchase Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask, go HERE

Visit them on Facebook HERE

**links provided for convenience, I am not financially compensated for clicks**

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

Moisture and radiance with Valentia's Royal Rose Hydrating Serum - review

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purposes of testing/reviewing.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.  All words and opinions are 100% my own.*

As Spring is about to make its entrance...we leave behind the layers of clothing, sweaters, boots, etc.  But there are some who also like to make a complete switch of their skincare routine to something a little lighter.  Well, here's another option from Valentia to help hydrate your skin with the help of the lightest serum!

Valentia Royal Rose Hydrating Serum

 Valentia Royal Rose Serum aims to hydrate and nourish your skin naturally.  Let's check out some specs first...
1.18 fl.oz/35 ml of serum contained within a glass bottle with pump dispenser
Sturdy packaging and easy to press pump
retails for $35.00 USD

"Royal Rose Hydrating Serum - a lightweight serum that boosts moisture and resilience while soothing and calming the skin.  This hydrating and nourishing serum will deeply moisturize skin, provide antioxidant protection, soothe and nourish dry skin, smooth skin tone and texture and boost skin radiance.

Specially selected ingredients work together to achieve optimal results:
Rose Damascena - One of the most nourishing and skin friendly natural oils, providing balance, moisture and a variety of vitamins and minerals to the skin.

Niacinamide (vitamin B) - This potent vitamin has been clinically proven to fade away hyperpigmentation, sun spots, acne.

Rosehip Seed Oil - Naturally rich in vitamins C & A, these essential fatty acids work quickly to lock in skin's moisture.

Evening Primrose Oil - Provides light, non-oily moisture to the skin, never clogging or irritating the skin.

Bearberry - Reduces melanin production, thereby lightening the skin, revealing a brighter complexion.

Lavender - Heals the skin, treating pimples, wounds and sores." - Valentia

Royal Rose Hydrating Serum - ingredients

I am in the process of researching the ingredients that are currently in my skincare routine so that I have a more thorough knowledge of which ingredients may be causing a flare up, or that my skin just does not react well with.  If you type "skin ingredients database" into Google, you will find a few.

Royal Rose Hydrating Serum texture

The texture of this serum is fantastic.  An opaque liquid, once blended into the skin, turns into a clear and very lightweight, very slippy texture.  What's really amazing is that this light serum moisturizes as heavily as it does.  It absorbs quickly into the skin and leaves behind not a shred of a film and skin looks and feels bouncy and fresh!  As I introduced this into a pretty lengthy and involved skincare routine, it was nice to see that it played nicely with my other items!  No changes, piling, etc.  This is pretty heavily scented like roses, do note that it does wear away and you are left with a subtle rose scent after dissipation.  Those that are really sensitive to scents may want to note that.

Freshly moisturized and feeling awesome!

Once applied to the skin, again, skin drinks it in without any film left on the skin.  I have forgotten primer and applied my makeup base over just this and it works wonderfully.  It has not oxidized my concealer or foundation.  It instantly hydrates and over the time frame of a month, I have noticed dark spots due to acne scarring fade slightly, which is a huge plus!  Perfect hydration for the spring into summer months!

To learn more about the Royal Rose Hydrating Serum and other awesome Valentia products, go HERE.

To purchase Royal Rose Hydrating Serum, visit amazon HERE.

Happy skincare, everyone!


*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purposes of testing/reviewing.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.  All words and opinions are 100% my own.*

Let's Get Sheet Faced! A facial mask story...

As I am getting older, I find that I am always on the lookout for new skincare that will benefit my skin and give me results.  From high end to drug store, I tend to try whatever I can to see what best fits into my beauty regimen.  Yes, I am 34 years old, just turned a few weeks ago and though I can thank my mother and father for passing some very good genes down, it also takes work to keep what you have going :).

With that, I have gotten completely obsessed with the Asian skincare community.  From reddit to instagram to blogs, I have been soaking up as much information as I can from fellow beauty lovers out there about what is new, what is worth trying and what works.

From an array of products, I chose to start my foray into Asian skincare with sheet masks.  Sheets masks, in basic terms, are a sheet of fabric (like cotton), gel, or other synthetic that is soaked in a serum or essence, is worn for a period of time to hyper introduce and soak those serums into your skin!

I will have more in-depth posts as my journey with face masks continues, but I wanted to give you a glimpse of what I've used recently.

From Top, clockwise...

Tony Moly I'm Real masks in Clear Skin, Nutrition, Elasticity, Skin Purifying, Skin Purifying - Makgeoll, Skin Soothing  [KOREA]

Absolute New York Exfoliating Foot Mask  [KOREA]

Miniso Moisturizing Stretch Facial Mask - Snail

SNP Animal Otter Aqua Mask  [KOREA]

Epielle Facial Essence masks in Green Tea & Aloe, Firming & Lifting Vitamin C  [KOREA]

Benton Cosmetic Snail Bee High Content Mask Pack  [KOREA]

As stated before, detailed reviews about these masks is coming.  And also the plethora of other Asian skincare I have picked up along the way...

Stay tuned :)

RevivSerums TelomErase 6 in 1 multicorrective Serum

*DISCLAIMER: Item sent by company for the purposes of testing/reviewing.  I am not being financially compensated for my post.  All words are 100% my own.* *powered by brandbacker*

I know...I get what you might be thinking..."another multi-use product that probably does nothing that it states it does...".  Well, I am going to break it to you.  We have found one that finally does what it states and the returns you get are fantastic.  Let us see how RevivSerums TelomErase Serum can benefit your skincare and anti-aging needs.

"TelomErase Triple Telomere Targeting Serum is a next-gen age-defying technology: a 6-in-1multi-corrective that erases, tightens, brightens, blurs, moisturizes and regenerates.  It contains the most powerful combination of new ingredients available to visibly reduce the appearance of sags and bags, dark circles, fine lines, sunspots, redness, pore size and laxity." - RevivSerums

"A study from Harvard Medical School showed that telomere shortening is a root cause of cellular aging.  An enzyme, telomerase, has been shown to slow or even reverse telomere shortening that occurs as we age, but the amount of telomerase declines as we get older.  TelomErase Serum is the first product of its kind with three proven age-erasing telomere targeters: Cycloastragenol + Renovage(TM) + Telosomyl." - RevivSerums.

So what exactly does all this science speak mean?

RevivSerums TelomErase Serum

 TelomErase Serum comes in a 2oz/60ml bottle and retails right now for $149.00 USD.

This serum is completely lightweight.  It soaks into the skin quickly, which is nice if you wanted to combine it with other products.  It never left my skin sticky.  The serum does have an herbal scent that is quite apparent upon application, but dissipates after it has soaked into the skin.  For the first couple of applications, I did feel a slight tingle, but nothing that was ever worrisome or painful.  Further applications were tingle free.

How to use:
"Apply a thin layer to clean dry skin (face, neck, chest and hands) once or twice daily for two to three months, then three times weekly thereafter for maintenance.  A slight initial tingling sensation upon application is normal." - RevivSerums

Before

Before use: Skin is dry, texture issues such as bumpiness, dullness, thick patches and lackluster color.  I was using a moisturizer suitable for my combo skin, toner and eye cream  before introducing TelomErase.

After

After use: Skin is looking brighter, tighter and more even.  Skin feels soft and after product soaks in, there is a definitive difference in the texture of skin...much more smooth, glowy, never greasy or shiny.

You can definitely see and feel the science behind this product.  I feel as if my results should be further along, but that is not the fault of the product at all.  Dealing with stress from university and impending holidays caused my skin to freak out, break out and the winter has not helped keep it supple or moisturized.  TelomErase helped bring my skin back to a normal state and added moisture, brightness and tone to my skin.

An investment?  Yes.  But the science here is truly remarkable and very evident in its results.

To learn more about TelomErase and purchase, go HERE...if you use the discount code TIGHT10, you will get 10% off the sale price right now!  Perfect for a holiday gift!  Expires 12/31/2015

*DISCLAIMER: Item sent by company for the purposes of testing/reviewing.  I am not being financially compensated for my post.  All words are 100% my own.* *powered by brandbacker*

Refresh your skincare routine with Neostrata Skin Active Antioxidant Defense Serum - GIVEAWAY

*DISCLOSURE: Giveaway item furnished by company.* *Powered by Brandbacker*

With the holidays nearing closer and closer, do not forget to treat yourself and your skin to an amazing anti-aging treatment.  A new year is fast approaching, but that new year will be hard to find on your skin with Neostrata's Skin Active Antioxidant Defense Serum...here's a little background...

"Protect skin from future signs of aging with this serum formulated with 8 powerful multi-action antioxidants designed to combat oxidative damage. Patented Bionic and Polyhydroxy Acids trap oxidation promoting metals like iron and help prevent sun-induced cellular damage. The potent combination of Citric Acid and Lilac, Green Tea and Chardonnay Grape Seed Extracts works together to neutralize five different types of free radicals and helps preserve healthy DNA, lipids and cellular membranes. In addition, this super potent source of EGCG Green Tea Extract protects against inflammatory mediators in the skin." - Neostrata Skincare

Would you like to score a full size of the Skin Active Antioxidant Defense Serum for free?  Neostrata is giving one away  25 winners!!!  Yes, you read that right!  This giveaway is only open to the US right now.  International readers, do not fret, as I am working on a giveaway for you guys.  

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY HERE

To learn more about Neostrata as a company, the Skin Active Antioxidant Defense Serum and their other amazing products, go HERE.

Follow them on twitter and let them know how you incorporate serums into your skincare routine... @neostrataskin


Good luck!

Sun Protection + Age Defying Ingredients = Oz Naturals Age Defying Solar Shield

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing and review.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.  All words and opinions are 100% my own.* *powered by brandbacker*

Okay, I am not afraid to admit this...I am one of those people that thinks they can float by with just the sun protection that comes in either my facial lotion or foundation.  That is horrible!  But I have my reasons.  Sun protection either did not play well with my makeup at the time, made me look super greasy or caused me to have a breakout.  Was I reticent to try this?  Yes.  Was I glad I did?  Read on to find out...

Oz Naturals Age Defying Solar Shield

 Oz Naturals combined sun protection with age defying ingredients to bring you their Solar Shield.  This plastic tube contains 60 ml/2 fl.oz of creamy product.

" + Oz Naturals SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Moisturizer contains  Octyl MethoOxyCinnamate and Zinc Oxide which together provide broad spectrum protection and shield skin against harmful damage caused from both UVA and UVB rays.

 + Safe for All Skin Types, this non-irritating, paraben-free can be applied daily on the face and body, and can be worn alone as a foundation, or under makeup.

 + Our Non-Comedogenic, SPF 30 tinted sunscreen moisturizer nourishes the skin, while also protecting the skin from the aging effects of cumulative daily UV exposure.

 + This Medium Tinted, moisturizing sunscreen blends well with most skin shades and evens-out skintone, in addition to protecting skin from the sun's harmful rays."- Oz Naturals

The consistency of this cream is that of a regular facial lotion.  Easily and quickly blends into the skin.  It has a scent that is rather pretty that does not linger on the skin too long after application.

Above, we have my freshly washed face with no lotion...

Here we have Oz Naturals Solar Shield freshly applied.  Now, this is actually closer the color on my neck and chest than it is on my face, so I appreciate that the color was pretty right on.  This never sets, so if you are easily irked by shine, you may want to set this.  I tried using this under makeup and felt like I was wearing a few pounds of skincare and makeup combined.  When used alone, I always set it with powder. I wish this came in more colors as those who are looking for sun protection and skincare in one would benefit from trying this out!

To learn more about the Solar Shield and Oz Naturals, please visit them HERE.

To find this on Amazon.com, go HERE.

*not affiliate links*


*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing and review.  I am not being financially compensated for this post.  All words and opinions are 100% my own.* *powered by brandbacker*

Show off your summer skin with Exuviance Daily Protector with SPF - Giveaway!!!

*Disclaimer - Giveaway and prizes provided for by company* *powered by Brandbacker*


Well everyone, summer is here.  What better way to celebrate your skin than with an amazing skin protector with SPF 50 from one of my favorite skincare brands ever...

Let's learn a little about this powerhouse product...
"This weightless fluid blends effortlessly on clean skin, or layered under makeup in a daily skincare routine.  Broad spectrum SPF 50 protects against photodamage, the primary cause of signs of aging.  An utra-fine transparent mineral sunscreen in a virtually invisible universal tint smoothes imperfections and helps natural skin tone appear more even.

Multi-Antioxidants Vitamin E and Lactobionic Acid fortify skin's natural defense, scavenging free radicals brought on by daily environmental aggressors before they can cause premature aging.  A PHA/Bionic Complex helps prevent collagen breakdown to maintain a healthy skin matrix and firmness, and helps prevent signs of photoaging such as lines and wrinkles.  A highly purified and concentrated form of Green Tea Extract reduces cell breakdown and helps protect cellular DNA for healthy skin.  PA++++ highest level of UVA protection.

Suitable for all skin types.  Product is fragrance-free, paraben free and oil free as well as non-acnegenic, non-comedogenic." - Exuviance/NeoStrataSkin

Now that you know of the amazing ingredients and attributes of this daily skin protector, how about winning one for yourself?!!?!  Exuviance is giving 25 lucky winners the chance at snagging a full size of the Sheer Daily Protector with SPF 50 (valued at $42.00)!!!  This is U.S only. Contest runs until August 12, 2015, so hurry!  Want to enter?  Go HERE!

Join them on social media...
TWITTER - @neostrataskin
INSTAGRAM - @exuviance

Let them know there why you wear an SPF everyday!

For more information on the Sheer Daily Protector with SPF 50, check it out HERE.

To learn more about the Neostrata, Exuviance and all of their amazing products, go HERE.



*Disclaimer - Giveaway and prizes provided for by company* *powered by Brandbacker*

Softer, smoother, brighter skin with Oz Naturals Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme Dermafoliant

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing/reviewing.  I am not being financially compensated for my review.  All words and opinions are 100% my own.*

One thing I have learned in regard to skincare as I have gotten older (30's are the new 20's, right?), is that exfoliation is KEY!  Once I incorporated exfoliation as a major component of my skincare regimen, I started to notice that my facial products were sinking in deeper and were actually effective.  What has helped revolutionize my skin?  Read on...

Oz Naturals Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme Dermafoliant

Oz Naturals Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme dermafoliant  is an exfoliant with lactic acid, b5, green tea extract and bamboo powder.  Inside of the metal container with sifter top is 2.75 fl.oz/81.3ml of granulated product.  The scrub retails for $24.95 USD.  This product is certified vegan and is cruelty free.

The Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme dermafoliant is an exfoliator made with bamboo that contains green tea extract, b5 and lactic acid that you can use up to 2 times a week.  The bamboo and rice help with the texture of your face, but you also have the added lactic acid that gives another boost in chemical exfoliation to brighten, tone, and smooth your skin.

Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme - dry product

Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme - wet mixture

The dermafoliant is very finely granulated, but not so much that its not effective.  The white color turns clear once the exfoliant is mixed with water.  Once you have a paste consistency, apply to the face in a circular motion.  Once you have finished the physical aspect of this regimen, you leave the scrub on your face for 5 minutes to allow the lactic acid to go to work.  Lactic acid is classified as an AHA - Alpha Hydroxy Acid, which aids in the improvement of the appearance of the skin and also in anti-aging.

After use, skin is smoother, softer and brighter.  I am fortunate enough that my skin tolerates manual exfoliation so I can use this between 2-3 uses a week.  Those with sensitive skin may want to spot test first and start out with a once a week approach.  I noticed no scent while using this product.  You can purchase the Ancient Orient Rice Enzyme on Amazon.com HERE, and go HERE to learn more about Oz Naturals, their company and other products!

Happy Exfoliating!

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing/reviewing.  I am not being financially compensated for my review.  All words and opinions are 100% my own.*

Glowing skin with Adovia Purifying Mud Mask

*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 my review.  All words and opinions are my own.*

Mud Masks are my favorite way of not only relaxing at home, but also getting my skin to glow!  It is important when using masks to use one with great ingredients so that your skin gets more than the regular benefits.  Adovia comes at you with their Purifying Dead Sea Mud Mask...check it out!

Adovia's Purifying Mud Mask comes to you in a very generous squeeze tube containing 150 ml/5.1fl.oz of product.  This mask retails for $13.95 USD on Amazon.com.

Adovia Purifying Mud Mask

"Adovia's unique Purifying Mud Mask is formulated with Dead Sea Black Mud, Beeswax, and a deeply moisturizing combination of Jojoba Oil, Evening Primrose Oil and Olive Oil.  This mask boosts cell renewal and revitalizes your skin, while tightening your pores.  As the mask dries, it gently pulls out toxins and impurities known to clog pores and cause visible signs of aging.  The presence of Dead Sea mud infuses your skin with needed minerals while firming it and improving elasticity .  Aloe Vera and Chamomile extracts soothe and calm your skin while  Vitamins A and C leave it looking fresh and renewed." - Adovia Mineral Skin Care

"The Dead Sea Facial Mask by Adovia:
* Pulls out toxins and unclogs pores so your skin can breathe and rejuvenate naturally
* Pulls out excess oil while putting in much needed essential minerals from the Dead Sea
* 100% Natural, Paraben Free, No added fragrance or color
* Improves your complexion by reducing blackheads, acne blemishes, and the appearance of acne
* Supplies nutrients to maintain elasticity and a soft, even texture
* Helps with oily skin, acne treatment, blackheads, blemishes, Psoriasis, Eczema" - Adovia Mineral Skin Care

Prior to using the mask, I cleansed my face with a normal cream facial cleanser.  I have combo oily skin and the occasional breakout.  I have issues with tone, texture and oily tzone.

The mask itself looks like  a regular mud mask when it comes out of the tube.  Once applied to the skin, you notice how different it is from other masks.  Adovia's Purifying Mud Mask feels like a legitimate balm.  The texture is pretty unreal from all other masks I have used!!!  It spreads nicely on the face and since it is very much like a balm, you do not need much for this to work.  After you apply a thin layer, you let it dry.  Once dry, rinse off with lukewarm water.  Again, here is where this mask differs from others.  You will feel small particles in the mask...so when you rinse it off, you also get a mild exfoliation from it as well!  Purifying and exfoliating at the same time?  I am SOLD!

Here, after application and cleansing, skin is more even, refreshed and less oily.  I have been using this mask once a week for almost a month and a half and I am loving my skin.  The combination of purifying mask and exfoliator really do leave the skin glowing, plump and soft.  This has also been super beneficial at curbing minor breakouts and texture changes due to the warmer weather coming up.

To learn more about purchasing Adovia Purifying Mud Mask and to see how others are using this, 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 my review.  All words and opinions are my own.*