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*

Journey to 100 Empties!!! 1-5

*All Items In This Post Purchased by The Passenger Element*

I have to admit...seeing empties posts is enjoyable!  Once I took stock of the mass of products I had accumulated, there was even a bigger thrill in getting to the point where I was pairing down, using and enjoying the products I had.  Here is my first entry into empty land...

#1 - BIORE Self Heating One Minute Mask - I'm a huge fan of anything mask for the skin...lotions, potions and every notion under the sun.  This mask is easy to use and what I love the most about it is that you can feel the heat and feel it working.  I just wish there were more packets in the container.  You get 4 single use packets for between $6-7 dollars.  Not exactly exorbitant, but its drugstore, give us a few more.

#2 - MEIJER (store brand) Strengthening Nail Polish Remover - just your run of the mill polish remover.  Did not dry my perpetually ragged cuticles any further, so that was a plus.

#3 - E.L.F Shine Eraser Oil Blotting Sheets - 50 blotter sheets.  One dollar.  They work.  Enough said.

#4 - BATH AND BODY WORKS Mad About You shower gel - Foamy, rinses clean, does not add much in the way of moisture, but you do feel clean!  Contains notes of Black Current, Vanilla, Peony and Strawberry.

#5 - MAC Zoom Lash mascara - A holy grail in my book. Lengthening, thickening, and black as all hell.  Gives structure to my lashes, but never hard enough to consider them "crispy".  Never experienced any flaking, smearing, smudging.  This starts as a pretty wet formula, or at least the 2 tubes I have had were, so I let them dry out a bit and they become the perfect consistency.

What are you guys currently emptying?

Rub pain away with OxyRub Pain Relief Cream!

*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*

I recently made some changes to my lifestyle that directly affected my health for the better.  With that, I added a more rigorous exercise plan to get my up and more active.  Starting this has had no shortage of growing pains when it comes to waking up aching from the day before.  So in addition to cooling down properly, hot baths, warm water bottles and the occasional rub down from my significant other, I have also been using this cream to combat all my aches and pains...'

OxyRub Pain Relief Cream

OxyRub Pain Relief Cream by Dr. Joseph Pergolizzi, is a fast acting, deeply penetrating, topical analgesic used to get relief from aches and pains associated with minor arthritis, backaches, sore muscles and joint pain.  Inside of the plastic squeeze tube you get 4oz/114g of cream product.  You can learn more about this cream at their site HERE or purchase on Amazon.com.

"OxyRub Pain Relief Cream rubs away pain - right on contact!

OxyRub works within minutes to:
-dissolve arthritis pain in knees, hips, fingers and wrists
-relieve tense, painful back, leg and neck muscles
-cool and soothe stubborn bursitis pain
-take the throbs out of bumps, sprains and bruises
-and so much more...

OxyRub combines the pain-relieving power of menthol with a patented, proprietary oxygenated essential oil into a soothing, pleasant smelling cream.

Just apply OxyRub where it hurts and PRESTO! No More Pain!

That's because muscle pain relief cream rubs in quickly and goes to work right at the source of your pain, to conquer it within minutes, right on contact.  Without waiting to digest a pill...without worry about drug interactions or harmful side effects...without medicinal scents, messy oils or greasy lotions.  OxyRub's secret lies in a patented blend of menthol, emollients, and oxygenated essential oil in a soothing, non-greasy cream that's absorbed into the skin in seconds with NO burning or irritation."  - Healthy Directions / OxyRub

OxyRub Pain Reliever stats

This has been one of the most pleasant pain creams I have ever used.  For me, the smell is almost pretty!  There is a slight tinge of medicine, but that quickly wears away to reveal an almost sweet and citrus scent.  The cream really does rub into the skin with no issues and absorbs very quickly.  There is a moderate cooling effect that lasts longer than other creams I have used that state the same claim.  the cooling is pleasant and it never made me feel uncomfortable.  As far as aches and pains, the cream did work within minutes...on areas where the pain was deeper or more acute, it took a little longer, but did feel the lessening of pain.  Aside from pain relief, the cream also made the areas I rubbed it in extremely soft.  I was very impressed with how quick and well this worked.  It was hard to believe that a cream that curbed my achy areas was also gentle on the rest of my body.  I accidentally touched the hand I had cream on to my face and experienced no burn, itchiness or irritation.

Super gentle, effective and fast acting...what else would you want from a pain reliever?

From now until the end of the year (12/31/15) you can get your own tube of OxyRub for 20% off!!!  When you go to check out, enter coupon code : SAVEOXY2

To purchase OxyRub from Amazon, please go HERE.

To learn more about OxyRub, Healthy Directions and much more, please go HERE.

Start experiencing life...PAIN FREE!!!



*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*

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*

A healthier me with SLIMQUICK Pure Weight Loss Drink Mix

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing/review.  I am being compensated for writing this post, do note that all words and opinions are my own.* *powered by brandbacker*

I recently had to make some lifestyle changes that I was not expecting to make.  I quickly got into a medication regimen, met with a dietician, and started an exercise plan.  I am on a journey to feel better and with that, perhaps even drop a pant size or two in the process!

I was lucky enough to be sent a box of SLIMQUICK Pure Extra Strength Drink Mix to help with my weight goals...

"SLIMQUICK Pure Extra Strength Mixed Berries Drink Mix is designed for women to help them lose 3 times the weight by addressing the 6 physical reasons women have trouble loosing weight.

SLIMQUICK Pure works to...
 - increases METABOLISM
 - reduces APPETITE
 - boosts ENERGY
 - reduces excess WATER
 - supports HORMONES
 - reduces STRESS

Rest assured SLIMQUICK Pure Extra Strength Drink Mix contains natural ingredients, like antioxidants, calcium, vitamin D and exclusive BioPure green tea (tm).

SLIMQUICK Pure Extra Strength Drink Mix has isolated the fat-burning component in green tea that speeds up your metabolism.  It is called BioPure green tea(tm) and it has been shown in a published clinical study to help overweight women lose 3 times the weight versus dieting alone, in just 13 weeks!" - WELLNX / SLIMQUICK

The flavor I received was mixed berries, and though there is no sugar, it is sweet and very easy to drink.  I loved that I did not experience any aftertaste like those associated with sweeteners.  The powder dissolved quickly and cleanly, even in cold water!

Each packet contains 3.3g of powder product.  The box I received was a 22 + 4 free combo pack, making it a total of 26 packets!  Instructions for usage are clear and easy to follow.  The most fantastic thing about this drink mix is the amount of energy you get!  Once it kicks in, you feel pure energy, no racing heart or coffee like jitters.  In the week that I have taken this (7 days) I have dropped 2 pounds.  I am excited to see where this takes me, along with my new diet and fitness routine, and what my check in will look like in 2 months.  There was a bit of resistance on my part, never knowing whether these things will work, but it has been a very pleasant surprise to see that it does with no side effects.

With this summer heat, you can even use the mix to make refreshing popsicles!  The equation is easy... you + healthy diet + exercise + SLIMQUICK Pure  = achieving goals.  To learn more about SLIMQUICK and the range of their weight loss products, go HERE.

Go HERE for a $5 dollar coupon off of your SLIMQUICK order :)

Stay tuned for my 2 month check in!

*DISCLAIMER - Item sent by company for the purpose of testing/review.  I am being compensated for writing this post, do note that all words and opinions are my own.* *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.*

Get glowing, polished skin with Adovia Dead Sea Salt Scrub

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

Summer is here and that means sandals, skin and being outdoors!  Now is the time to shed the winter blahs with smooth and glowing skin all over your body, from head to toe!  Adovia's Dead Sea Salt  Scrub can help get you from dry and bumpy to smooth and hydrated, ensuring glowing skin all summer long!

"Adovia's exfoliating Salt Scrub gently buffs away dead skin cells and infuses your skin with much needed Minerals from Dead Sea salt and nutrients from plant oils.  Natural oils provide a surprisingly long lasting relief from dry skin with deep moisture and hydration.  Leaves skin smooth, moisturized and freshly rejuvenated." - Adovia / goPure Naturals

Inside of this plastic tub, 300gr/11oz of liquid and grain solid product are contained.  This retails for $14.95 USD,  You can purchase this through Amazon HERE, or through Cleopatra's Choice HERE.

Once you unscrew the top, you are treated to the most intensely scented scrub ever.  The scent for the salt svrub is somewhere between spa and clean laundry.  It is pretty potent, so those that are sensitive to scents may want to test first, but it is pretty, calming and long lasting.  The salt grains themselves are somewhere between mid-grain to large-grain coarse...enough to give you a thorough exfoliation, but the crystals aren't so big that it will keep you from sloughing off.

The scrub comes separated.  You will notice an oil layer on top, and the heavier salt on the bottom.  It is easy to mix.  Once you have emulsified the two, use on hands, feet, arms, legs, anywhere you need exfoliation.  The amount of sloughing you can do is really based on how much pressure you use, the more pressure, the harder the grains will feel and the deeper of an exfoliation you will get.  When the salt washes away, you are left with an oily film that can be rubbed in and patted off.  Skin is soft, super smooth, hydrated and fragranced.

This worked most excellent on my dry feet, elbows and hands.  I know the oily film can seem a bit much, but it does soak in and any remainder, if any, can be blotted off.  I love how long lasting the scent is.  There was no need for additional lotion when I used the scrub.  Be careful as tubs/showers will be left very slick...always make sure you are careful.

To learn more about the scrub and purchase it, check out Amazon.com HERE, or Cleopatra's Choice HERE.

Happy Sloughing!


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