Retseliney Natural Skincare Products!

Hello, hello, again, everyone!!

I'm getting ready for bed after a LONNNNG week from HELL. I'm not kidding when I say this. I had to get a sub at one point this week to take care of some personal business, and SEVERAL of my kids got detention. ONE even got sent to the office for a PADDLING! WHAT?! They're never THIS badly behaved, but something is in the end-of-the-school-year air that has them acting CRAZY!

So basically, TGIF. I need this weekend to recharge for next week.

Today I felt so dragged down and exhausted that I couldn't wait to get home. When I got home, I realized that I couldn't truly rest because I felt so disgusting. Today it was sunny, about 80* or more, and RAINING. Downpouring, to be exact. So my hair...skin...every...sticky and gross. I hate the feeling.

As someone with super oily skin, I felt disgusting all day.

A student came up to me today and say "Oh my God, Miss Mayes. You look super sick.". Thanks, kid. I just didn't wear foundation due to my oily skin and the humidity. Way to make me feel good about myself. ;) Oh well, I wasn't upset!

So when I got home, took care of business, and turned into a vegetable for a bit, I decided it was time for a shower. I can't explain the good a shower does me. Seriously. I feel like a new person when I get out!

This shower was especially awesome because of a couple of Retseliney products that I got to try out for free! One is the Advanced Exfoliant Cream and the other is the Potent Antioxidant Mask.

The Exfoliant Cream is my FAVORITE. I've had issues with cystic acne, and it's erased it. Seriously. No more nasty under-the-skin bumps for me! On top of that, it's getting rid of all of the dirt and oil that build up by polishing it away (it has a fine, fine grit without using those awful plastic beads!). My oily skin has been far less oily after I use the cream, and that is giving me more even makeup application and healthier skin! I love this stuff! A little goes a long way so this jar will last forever!! It's not too rough on my sensitive skin, either!

The Antioxidant Mask is great too! It leaves my skin glowing and hydrated (but not oily). It's great for dry patches that have been polished away by the Exfoliant Cream. The label warns that it may tingle. I have super super sensitive skin so I won't lie...it was intense...but it didn't hurt and it wasn't unbearable. The mask goes on evenly and smoothly and comes off easily.

Overall, I really loved these products! They've helped my skin drastically!

Check out my video review!

Somnis: Your Answer for Insomnia!

I get SUPER SUPER SUPER excited when I review something that helps me dramatically, changes my life, and that I know can help others! That's EXACTLY how I feel about a supplement that I recently tried to help with my insomnia: Somnis!

Most people are reluctant to try a sleep aid because they can become habit-forming or have dangerous chemicals. Somnis simply uses melatonin and GABA to help you fall asleep quickly and stay that way!

The capsules are SO easy to swallow that they don't bother an anti-pill person like me! There's no bad aftertaste or heartburn the next day and there's also no groggy or medicated feeling when you wake up!

I SWEAR I've never slept better than I have while using Somnis. I was so excited that I offered a fellow insomniac a few to try, and he reported back to me, without knowing my opinion, my exact thoughts!

With all of those negative side effects gone, you've got nothing to worry about except finding enough pillows!

Give it a try! You won't regret it!

Organic Peppermint Lip Balm by ABCD Vitamins!

Hello, hello, hello, everyone!

As it's getting warmer and we're gravitating more towards outdoors activities, it's important to remember the effect that the sun has on your skin. Nothing is more inconvenient than having sunburn or peeling on your lips. Maybe your lips haven't fully recovered from the winter! Either way, I've got the product review for you, so listen up! :)

I was recently selected to review a free product sample of ABCD Vitamins' Organic Beeswax Lip Balm. There are a couple of reasons that I really like this balm. The main one is very minty scent. I've used an organic peppermint lip balm in the past, and it wasn't as strong as this one. The flavor and scent are equivalent of having an actual piece of candy in your mouth. This can be good or bad...depending on your personal likes.

Another thing that I noticed was the formula. I LOVE beeswax. It glides on smoothly and evenly and absorbs quickly. It doesn't feel greasy or heavy. I think that the strong mint quality reddens my lips slightly, which I'm not a fan of...but if I'm in need of serious healing, adding a tiny bit of redness isn't the most of my problems! This balm has an SPF of 15 so you're protected from sun damage as well!

As far as the packaging goes, I think that it's great that it's very simplistic. The four balms come in a plastic sleeve with a simple ingredient, logo, and product name label. The tubes of balm have the same design as the package and are all safety sealed. I LOVE that fact, because I can tell that they've never been opened. The tubes are the size of a typical ChapStik, so they're easy to carry or throw in your purse.

In all, I really like these balms and I love that they're all natural! Beeswax is my favorite lip product and ABCD Vitamins has done a great job of making it enjoyable with the minty, fresh scent.

Lesser Known Supplement Review: Milk Thistle!

In my product review journey, I've been offered many supplements. As appealing as "free" may seem, I'm very picky about what I will actually ingest as, you know, it's my LIFE! Usually, I will accept fish oil, biotin, calcium, and the like. When offered the opportunity to test a milk thistle supplement for free, I did a little research, and decided that it was something I might want to try.

With any given supplement, there are benefits that one hopes to gain by taking it. In my research, I found that milk thistle is a relative of the daisy, and was mostly used to treat liver issues such as jaundice, hepatitis, and gallbladder issues. Other benefits it had were lowering cholesterol and helping with type 2 diabetes. It is important to realize that there isn't really enough scientific evidence to support these claims. Research is still in the beginning stages.

The main benefit of milk thistle at this point is as an antioxidant. It's basically a liver flush. When you think about all that the liver processes and passes through, it can't hurt to have a little antioxidant. I wouldn't bank on this supplement to reverse liver damage, but a little natural cleansing is definitely not out of the question.

As for VitaPure Products' supplement, I found that the capsules were easy to swallow and didn't stick in my throat. They didn't have an overwhelming odor, the label was written in clear, easy to understand English. It clearly shows the ingredients and the amount. It also provides plenty of contact information for any questions that may arise. Many supplements do not provide this. The label looks professionally designed and graphically sound. The lid was safety sealed to the bottle.

While I have no evidence of actually being detoxed, I'll give it the benefit of the doubt. I had no negative side effects or issues with taking the supplement.

If you're considering this supplement, please research to see if you're part of the audience who should NOT take this supplement. I highly suggest using WebMD when looking for this information.

Essential Oils: What ARE They and What Do They Do?

Something that I've always to try, but haven't really taken the time to research is essential oils. I've heard so many people sing their praises, and my curiosity was peaked. When InstaNaturals (one of my FAVORITE beauty brands) asked me to review their essential oils pair in exchange for a review, I happily agreed! This was a great opportunity to "try it before I buy it", and I was totally game. The first thing I did was research the uses for each. I decided to pick a few uses each for the purpose of my reviews, and slowly, over time, add more uses to my list.

The first oil that I received is my absolute favorite: Lemon! I love how Lemon smells when I clean my house, so I hoped that this oil would have a strong scent. I wasn't disappointed! I read that Lemon essential oil is a good disinfectant, so I mixed it up with water in a spray bottle (it just took a few drops!) and went to town on the counters. It smells amazing, cuts grease, and best yet...if the cats are eating crumbs off of the counter or are laying on it and then groom themselves, I don't have to worry about them eating chemicals! Another use that I decided to try was odor elimination. I used a paper towel, in a small ceramic bowl, and placed it on the windowsill. The oils made the room smell AWESOME for quite a long time! Compared to the investment of gel air freshener cones, essential oils go a LONG way! You can also place a saturated cotton ball in your fridge to help with odors as well!

Next, I had the opportunity to try the Peppermint essential oil. I KNEW this one had arrived before I even opened the box. Instantly, the scent reached my nose. I liked it, but it became VERY strong when I opened the box and took off the plastic wrap. Once the bottle had had time to air out, it went back to "normal" (i.e.: not being able to smell it from three miles away). This oil, I use daily to help wake me up! I put a few drops in the bottom of the shower, and the hot water steams the shower up. It smells AWESOME and I wake up much faster! This may be because Peppermint helps to focus your mind and enhance memory. The scent of Peppermint also curbs appetite, so if you're tempted to snack excessively, this may be a good option! The scent of this oil is awesome! It's much stronger than Peppermint candy, but it also has a more natural, earthy smell that is less sugary.

Overall, I'm really impressed that these oils have so many uses. I'm also impressed with the quality of the bottle and dropper. I haven't had a single issue with it sealing or sucking up the oil like it's supposed to. I've dropped the bottles a few times on hardwood floor, and they've haven't broken, so I think it's safe to say that they're thick, quality glass. The bottles are HUGE, as well. One bottle is about the size of my palm, and I have large hands! You're definitely getting your money's worth with InstaNatural's essential oils, no matter what scent you select!

What oils do you use and what uses have you found for them?

Wanna Win? Bella Naturals Organic Deodorant Giveaway!

Hello, hello, hello, guys!

I'm so excited to announce that I'm giving away a jar of Bella Naturals' Organic Vanilla Mint Deodorant! You know you wanna give it a try! :) See my review below, and if you're interested, enter the contest!

 

Something TOTALLY New: Organic Deodorant Creme by Bella Naturals

Normally, I'm open to trying a lot of new things, so long as they're within the range of products that I've used before. Facial serums, hair growth vitamins, and conditioners are examples of products that I review pretty regularly. When the opportunity arose to review an organic deodorant creme, I hesitated to apply just because I had never tried a creme deodorant. However, I was really interested in the idea of using an organic deodorant, so I gladly accepted my free product.

When it arrived, the first thing that I noticed was how strong the scent was. If I would change anything about the product, I would have much preferred to have it in a floral or fruity scent. The vanilla mint scent is wonderful, but it's not a common deodorant scent. It's very strong, but I didn't find it any more overwhelming than someone chewing a minty gum.

The deodorant came in a small jar that reminded me of a Carmex jar. It has a screw on lid and easily opens and closes. The product inside is a thick, white creme and has the consistency of melted deodorant (I hope I'm not the only one who's left it in a hot car...), but a little firmer.

The only other thing I would change about this product is to have it easier to get out. Now, it isn't an issue, because my container is full (a little goes a LONG way!). When I've used it more, the level will go down, and I'll have to reach further into the container to get to the product. This will be messy, as I'll have to stick more of my fingers in. I think a push-up bottom in a tube would be a fantastic idea for this product. That would eliminate the mess and getting the deodorant all over consumer's hands.

Once I applied the deodorant, I noticed that it had a cooling sensation. I liked it! :) It went on smoothly and evenly.

At this point I have to add: organic deodorant won't work immediately. Non-organic deodorants clog the pores of your skin, so it takes about a week to detox. For me, personally, I decided to detox over spring break because I knew it could get ugly. After detoxing and exfoliating a few times, I tried the deodorant.

My results: as long as I'm not doing anything extremely strenuous, it works perfectly. On days that I'm not active, I noticed that it did a decent job of keeping me from stinking. However, once I ran, I believe it sweated off, and I became a nasty, stinking, mess.

Typical deodorants keep you from sweating or they use tons of chemicals to mask the scent. The concept of organic deodorant is that it fights the bacteria that is sweated out.

The ingredients listed are: Organic Shea Butter, Organic Arrowroot Powder, (Vegan), Organic Sunflower Oil,  Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, Aluminum-Free Baking Soda, Organic Peppermint Essential Oil, Organic Vanilla Extract, Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil

So...as a healthier alternative, I will wear this deodorant anytime I'm not running or at the gym. I know that, ideally, I would go straight organic, but mostly organic with few exceptions is much better than having deodorant on 24/7 that contains aluminum! For those days that I have to get active, I'll look for an aluminum-free alternative with a little more punch. Although I know that this deodorant will have chemicals and unnatural additives, I just can't stand sweating the deodorant off and smelling bad. 

Lalune Naturals Organic Lip Balm Review!

Fun fact: I have issues with dry skin. In the winter, it's AWFUL. Usually, lotions will take care of it for at least a couple of hours. I have found that body butter is the very best thing to stay relieved for long periods of time (12 hours or so). Even when I've taken care of my skin, there's still the problem of my lips. I'm very picky when it comes to my lip balms, and my countertop is to show for it. I've got at least ten lip balms/ChapStiks that I've used once and left because they were too greasy, too medicated, the scent was awful, or worst: they left a terrible taste in my mouth. Another issue I have is balms making my lips look maroon instead of pink. I'm not sure if it's the ingredients or an allergic reaction, but even clear ChapStik makes my lips look darker. I've used all natural lip balms before, but I don't have them anymore. In my world, that means that they were good. That being said, I decided to review a free package of Lalune Naturals' Organic Lip Balm.

When they arrived, I noticed first that the box that they were in was a rough brown cardboard box printed with a simple black label. I LOVE it, from a graphic design standpoint! The flavors, ingredients, brand, and USDA Organic Certification are all clearly marked on the box. When I opened the package, I was pleased to see that each balm scent was marked with a different color. This makes them easy to tell apart. Next, I smelled them. The scents are light and airy without being overwhelming. The undertone of the scent is very earthy and natural. It doesn't smell like chemicals and I LOVE that.

The final, and most difficult test was use. Remember, I'm picky. I decided to use Vanilla Bean first (other scents include Asian Pear, Peppermint, and Raspberry). The balm went on smoothly and easily without any pressure. At first, I felt like the balm was greasy but it VERY quickly began to absorb. As it absorbed, the dry, cracked skin on my lips softened up and now they feel AMAZING! There isn't really a taste to these balms, but the scent is great. It's noticeable, but barely.

 I think the best part is: my lips LOOK healthy! And that problem with having maroon lips that I mentioned before? Not a problem! My lips look plump, pink, and slightly shiny. It's FANTASTIC for use with dramatic eye makeup. I'm VERY satisfied with these balms! They're the BALM (bomb...get it?)!

Forskolin....What is THAT?

I'm always on the lookout for new things that I've never tried before. One of the reason I started product reviewing was to broaden my horizons in relation to products, brands, and different types of products (especially health and beauty). Needless to say, I was curious about Forskolin when I heard a friend talking about it. Within a few days, there was the option to receive a bottle free, for my honest opinion. Now, I'm not stranger to weight loss supplements, their side effects, and their effectiveness. I knew that this would either work extremely well and quickly, or it would work slowly. Depending upon body chemistry, diet, exercise, genetics, etc. you're looking at a wide margin of results for any given group of people.

I went into this with an open mind and (not negatively) low expectations. Forskolin comes from the Indian Coleus plant. Essentially, the plant extract helps hormones carry messages that they need to carry. This can be effective in weight loss. Many are turning to the extract as a way to manage their weight. My personal experience with Supreme Pure's version was positive, but not an event to write home about.

Now, I mentioned that it would either work immediately or slowly work. While I HOPED to be in the first category, I am, sadly, stuck in the second. BUT, that is not the fault of the product. I just have a different body type! What I did notice, that benefited me immensely, were a few things: the dosage isn't outrageous. I've taken natural supplements that called for taking 12 capsules a day. NO WAY! It gets to be a nasty feeling, swallowing pills! You don't have to worry about that here! Secondly, there was no foul odor with this supplement. Some, you just don't want to take because of the smell. The benefit that I most noticed from taking Forskolin was an increase in energy. So, if nothing else, the supplement gave me the energy to get up and do something! I found myself less tired and more ready for whatever the day brought. I was in a better mood because of this. On top of that, I think having more energy during the day caused me to sleep better at night (doing more is more exhausting!).

Although I did not witness weightloss results with this supplement, I know that it has helped my energy levels immensely. Supreme Pure's affordability makes it easy for everyone to try something new!

Have you tried and "hype" products? What were your results?

Azure Naturals Rosehip Oil - Professional Strength - For Skin and Hair!

Hey, guys! I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving! As for me, I took some time to just NOT THINK about ANYTHING! It's really nice to have QUIET after having to match-wits with middle school students daily! (Disclaimer: I love my job and the kids...but they are SMART! :) I'm proud...but it can be exhausting keeping up! Haha! So over the break I took time to really get to know some products. One of those was Azure Naturals Ultimate Rosehip Oil. Now, if you know me...you know I'm somewhat impressionable. If someone has tried something and liked it, I WANT TO TRY IT! I had heard about the benefits of Rosehip oil, but I wanted to experience first hand what it would do for me. So for a week...I used solely the Rosehip oil to see what it would do for my complexion.

Here are my observations: