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!

The "No" Zone...My Eyes + Foxbrim Youthful Radiance Eye Cream

Often, I'm very nervous about putting ANYTHING near my eyes. It's hard enough for me to find makeup that doesn't irritate the tears out of them...let alone finding something that I can slather on them without them getting irritated. It's a twofold problem, though. As much as I want to keep my sensitive eyes happy, I also want rid of bags, discoloration, and wrinkles.

The reaction is especially bad with chemicals. Needless to say, I've looked for the more natural route and was happy to see that Foxbrim's Youthful Radiance Eye Cream contained natural ingredients that my skin (and EYES!) would LOVE. The cream includes:

 + Vitamin C & E
+ Green Tea
+ MSM
+ CoQ10
+ Grapeseed Oil
+ Tamanu Oil

From the moment I put it on (not too close to my eyes), I felt cooling sensations. The discoloration was the first thing that I noticed decreasing. The swelling and puffiness went down within a few minutes, and I was very impressed at the speed of effectiveness! Even if I hadn't seen immediate results, the cream was soothing to the skin under my eyes and helped my makeup to cover better.

I was very impressed with the results of using this cream, and suggest that you check it out if you're prone to sensitive eyes!

I received this product free for my honest opinion. It did not influence my opinion. 

Doll Face Eyeshadow Brushes!

Anyone who knows me knows that I have a few obsessions. One of those would be eyeshadow! I have TONS of palettes and there's no better way to apply them than with brushes. Since I've discovered brushes, I'll never go back to applying any makeup with anything else! When I had the opportunity to review a new set, I was all over it! The set first caught my attention because of how cute the brushes are! They have a matte black handle bottom and the top is hot pink metal. The logo for Doll Face is ADORABLE! The weight of the brushes is nice and they're the perfect length for all sizes of hands. I held them in different places, and they always worked awesomely!

In order to have the best review possible, I wanted to use the brushes for a few weeks and wash them a few times. Through various types of washes (with different scrubbing material and different soaps), I didn't lose a single bristle through the use, washing, drying, and reuse process. The bristles are extremely fluffy on the soft brushes, and just firm enough on them eyeliner and crease brushes. The set comes with two fluffy brushes, a shorter bristled brush, a stiffer, angled brush, and an eyeliner brush. 

You can get a close up view of the brushes in my video below! 

I highly suggest these brushes for beginners AND professionals. They're affordable, awesome quality, cute, and convenient for travel!

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?)!

Cellulite Be Gone! Body Merry's Cellulite Defense Gel-Cream

I've always, always, ALWAYS had a body image issue. I think the problem is deep-rooted in the fact that I was overweight as a kid, and my classmates let me know it. From the time I was in Elementary school, I've struggled with my weight, my skin, my hair, EVERYTHING! And when I say "struggle", I don't mean that I couldn't keep it under control. I mean that no matter how "pretty" whatever aspect was, I still lacked the self-confidence it took to realize that IT DIDN'T MATTER what people were constantly thinking of me.

Flash forward to my first day of college. One of the events on campus was to be a splash party and I knew this a month or so in advance. I. Was. Horrified. I was 17 going into a campus of hundreds of kids my own age and older. To go to this party, I'd have to wear a swimsuit bottom (you KNOW it was the short type!). I immediately ran out to get cellulite cream, as my sister had made a comment about it as I was swimming that summer (thanks, Hailey!). I could NOT let that happen again! I picked up the Equate Cellulite Lotion (Wal-Mart brand) and began using it. It didn't take long for my thighs and arms to start bruising. Yes, BRUISING! I'm not sure what it was in the formula, but my doctor said that the bruising would go away, but I had to STOP using the cream. It had thinned out my skin and veins. On the plus side, nobody saw my cellulite because they were too busy wondering if I'd tell them about Fight Club.

When asked to review a free sample of Body Merry's Cellulite Defense Gel-Cream, I had instant flashbacks to the bruising caused by the other cream I'd tried. I decided that it was worth a shot (I'm over the self-consciousness of cellulite...but hey...it wouldn't hurt to get rid of it!). I decided at the first sign of bruising, I would stop use, and compare the ingredients between the two formulas. Luckily, I never bruised! There are a few other good things about the product, though. For one, it's doesn't stink or smell chemical-y. The formula glides on, doesn't make a mess, and absorbs quickly. Body Merry's products always supply a generous amount, and this cream is no different. A little goes a LONG way for me, so I know this tub will last a long while. The lid is easy to get on and off (don't you hate it when a lid is cheaply made and it skips the track??) and the label is professionally designed. It's very eye-catching!

I know that a product like this will have to work over time, so I will write an update at a later date. For now, though, my skin is left feeling soft and smooth and firm. I'm seeing a gradual difference, but the most I've seen is in my arms. They are much firmer. Overall, I have to say it's a winner! I mean, I didn't bruise and my skin! ;)

Dead Sea Products...Alive in Mainstream!

A while back I was asked to review Adovia's 100% Pure Dead Sea Bath Salts. I'm not really much of a bath person...I don't really have time to slow down. I'm more of a 5 minute shower person, unless it's the weekend. Then, it's a 10 to 15 minute shower, tops. However, I'm always about trying new things, so I figured that I would give the Dead Sea Bath Salts a go! On top of that, I was intrigued by the "Dead Sea" trend that I had been noticing lately. Now, I'm a skeptic. I'm not just going to ingest or jump into a tub of unknown solution. I had to do my research first, and what I found was interesting.

The Dead Sea is located in Jordan and is known world-wide for it's healing properties. The main of these being the salt baths and mud masks. Both of the treatments are used to draw impurities out of the body and restore balance. There are speculations that the benefits go into the mythical realm, but for the purpose of my review, I will stick with science.

Statistically, the Dead Sea is single body of water with the highest sodium content. It possesses 27% while most sea water holds only 3%! What a difference! In normal sea water, sodium is the main contributor to the composition. In Dead Sea water, the composition lies mostly with magnesium, potassium, calcium chloride and bromides. The salinity is so high that your buoyancy changes! You float!

There are SO many benefits to a Dead Sea Salt bath, but I'll just outline a few below!

Magnesium is important for stress levels. The bath itself is relaxing, but Magnesium helps in that it calms the nervous system. It has an added benefit of slowing skin aging! Potassium helps in that it gives you renewed energy and helps to balance the moisture of your skin (great for oily OR dry skin!). Calcium is absorbed into the body and fortifies nails and bones. And finally, Sodium strengthens the immune system. These baths help to replace what you naturally lose over the course of the day/week.

Results for Dead Sea baths include HIGH percentages of relief with arthritis. Dr. J. Arndt did a survey of adults suffering from the affliction and had great results. I'm talking 60-70-80%! Another study by Dr. J. Arndt shows that the baths helped significantly with psoriasis by reducing itching significantly! In both studies, there were NO noted side effects.


That being said, I say: everything in moderation. Being exposed to these minerals for short amounts of time is beneficial but you CAN get too much of a good thing. Though I'm sure the content of a bath isn't the same as the sea, it is recommended that you stay in the sea for no longer than 15 minutes. I did feel a little odd when I spent over an hour in the bath (I didn't research the time limit until AFTER the fact!) but I slept AMAZINGLY every time I've taken the Dead Sea salt bath! I've experimented with regular baths and they don't have the same effect.

My skin is the main problem I was hoping to get relief for. I literally dig and dig and DIG at my legs. They get cracked and dry and I'm just miserable! I have had SUCH AMAZING results with my dry skin that I will buy more salts when my free product review bag is gone!

Specifically, with this brand, a few things to note: I love the bag size! A bag this large will last a long time in 1 cup increments of use. It is easy to reseal (I used a small piece of tape) and easy to pour. The salt dissolved quickly in hot water and didn't leave a greasy/filmy feel in my tub or on my body. The communication between myself and Adovia was fantastic, so I am confident that if any questions or concerns arrive, they would get back with you as soon as possible and very quickly!

Please excuse the stock images! I will have my own uploaded when I am back near my bag tonight! I just had to let you guys know about my experience! :)

Pick Up the Scum You WANT to Pick Up!

Through my blog posts, I try to let a little of myself shine through. Whether it's jokes, perspective, or quick little facts about myself. Well....here's a fact for you that deals directly with my title: I'm too nice to strangers. In fact, I'm amazed that I wasn't abducted multiple times as a child. I was that child that took candy from strangers...and that has transferred to me being adult and not knowing how to swat down advances from the opposite sex. Unfortunately, for me, even if a guy is scary looking, throwing the creeper vibe, and raising every red flag in me, I will STILL giggle awkwardly and carry on a conversation instead of shutting him down. I'm not sure why...I've always been this way. I can't tell anyone no! Thus, this product review is about picking up dirt that you want to pick up and not about accidentally picking up strangers that you desperately have to try to shake all evening!

Recently, I was sent a free promotional product: Day by Day Beauty's Facial Blotting Papers.

My initial thoughts was that these papers will last me a LONG time. Sheet-by-sheet comparison, you're getting 200 sheets for about $10. That's a fantastic deal when you compare them to other brands. 200 sheets is a LOT of blotting.

Next, I noticed the package. It is clean and easy to read/look at. It has a very simple design, which goes far. It is a very professional looking package.

When you open it up...SURPRISE! A cute little message! "Hello, Beautiful". How sweet! It's a pleasant touch. :)

Now...the moment of truth. I attempted to pull out a single sheet, but had difficulty. This is one of my few complaints about this product. An accordion-style dispenser would make it SO much easier to access the product. If I were in a hurry, I would be too frustrated to attempt to pull the sheets out with as much time as it took me to take ONE. If you decide to take multiple sheets in your hurry, you're wasting your product.

I think that the material is the reason for their sticking. They feel like the paper that you get with french fries in a basket. It's very hard to separate them. Now that I've made the connection, I'm almost 100% sure that it's the same paper. It makes sense...the purpose of that paper in food presentation is to absorb oil/keep it from leaking through the basket.

As far as oil absorption goes...I feel like I have to press too hard to my skin to get it to pick up. However, if I'm wearing foundation and powder, it doesn't bother me. If I'm going bare-skinned for the day, it would be a problem because I feel like I'm smashing the oil down into my pores more than I am having it absorbed by the paper (I'm very oily complected).

My conclusion: this product is fantastic if you don't plan to carry it with you. If you use blotting sheets once or twice a day in a no-rush setting, such as at your vanity, it's great. If you aren't very oily complected OR if you are and wear face makeups and powders, I highly suggest these papers. You won't find a better deal in quantity and price anywhere!

A Powerful Trio for Skincare! + Dermarolling Facts

I'm pretty sure it's mandatory for me to start freaking out about my skin now. If I could, I would go back to my 12-22 year old self, slap her, and tell her that she's committing MURDER on her skin by sleeping in makeup!! If I hadn't done that for TEN YEARS, I can imagine how glowing, beautiful, and youthful my skin would look. Unfortunately, I was STUPID. YES, STUPID. If you're reading this, and you SLEEP IN YOUR MAKEUP...STOP! Stop being STUPID!

Ok...rant over.

But seriously...it's really bad for your skin and you shouldn't do it.

So where does one begin when wanting to undo the damage?

Through research, I've found a few solutions. One of them, dermarolling, sounds really crazy at first, but I SWEAR by it now that Petunia Skincare has provided me with a dermaroller to use for review purposes.

In my research, I found that there are several different options for someone looking to begin dermarolling. First, you have to consider your tool. The longer needles penetrate deeper and stimulate the skin on a deeper level. The shorter needles are for daily use (.25 length and below) and help your skincare products absorb better.

What does dermarolling do, though? The idea behind dermarolling is to damage your skin, but in a helpful way. The surgical needles on the head of the roller puncture the skin. This activates your body's need to heal, which sends healing collagen through all of the microchannels rather than scar-forming collagen (like you would expect for bigger wounds). New collagen and elastin forms. Why it works this way isn't 100% understood yet, but clinical studies show that firming fibers increase by at least 200% with regular use. These micro-punctures allow your product to go deeper under the skin, which allows them to be more effective in their results.

Now...it's important to remember that you are inflicting damage, on some level, to your skin. Obviously, this isn't an every day thing unless you have the proper sized needle. I wouldn't recommend it EVERY day, anyway, as it leaves you feeling a little sunburned.

There's a photo floating around the internet of Kim Kardashian with a bloody face after dermarolling. Remember...she's at a dermatologists' office and has very specific areas that she wants "lifted". Obviously, you won't do something that extreme at home. Dermarolling from home doesn't involve major needles or blood. If someone tells you that you CAN use a huge needle at home...run away. FAR away, because you will end up ruining your face!

Because the skin is damaged and then healing collagen is sent to your skin to heal it, dermarolling is ideal for acne scars and discoloration. Basically, you're replacing what's there with something better. I did notice an immediate difference in coloration! I was excited about that, as someone who has very mild scarring. I would love to see the results of someone who had heavy scarring!

Here is a breakdown of the problems and needle sizes you would need:

Sun Damaged or Aging Skin: 1.0-1.5
Loose Skin: 1.5
Fine Wrinkles 1.0-1.5
Individual Deep Wrinkles: Large, Single Use Needle
Absorption of Skincare Products: .3 on face .5 on body
Uneven Pigmentation or Acne Spots: .5-1.0 (DO NOT USE ON MOLES)

Another point that I should bring up is that dermarolling works on necks and bodies. I have seen, in my research, several women using it for their stretchmarks. It helps to make them not as deep and pigmented.

My experience with dermarolling was fantastic. I received the 1.0 size for review purposes, and with my research, I sadly saw that I can only use it once per month. I was addicted from the first time! The roller doesn't FEEL like needles. It's pokey, but I would never guess that it's puncturing the skin. The needles are very sharp, easy to clean, and painless. The handle is very high quality and durable, it is a hard plastic. I'm no scientist, but I would say that this plastic is non-porous so that it doesn't absorb bacteria and dirt.

It was painless. However, when I finished rolling my skin (you roll all over with four to five strokes in each direction) and applied my Petunia Skincare Anti-Aging Serum, I felt a bit of a sting. My skin was pretty red, also, but it faded within an hour or so (so do it on a weekend!).

My skin was softer that it's ever been in my entire life!! And when the redness faded, my skin GLOWED! The anti-aging skin serum that I used with my dermaroller was the PERFECT cherry on top. My skin was soft before applying it...but after....wow! Even when I'm not dermarolling, the serum leaves my skin feeling refreshed (not greasy at all! A concern of mine because I have greasy skin), bright, and even.

In addition, I tried the eye serum. The aspect of this serum that impressed me the most was the lifting quality. The area around my eye felt hydrated and tighter. This helped with my BAGS! As someone who is very sensitive to scent, I appreciated that it was scentless. It's hard to use a product that goes on your face that has an irritating scent! The eye serum has a gel-like quality that makes it easy to control in application. It cools and soothes on contact.

Overall, I've been very impressed by Petunia Skincare's products. The packaging is very professional looking and the products are quality. I love the way my skin looks, and I feel that my treatment of my skin is on the mend! Who knows! I may get back to looking the way I SHOULD have if I hadn't abused my skin over the years!

Evergreen Nature, Hair Skin & Nails Supplement Feedback

Hello, again, everyone!! I've got another product review for you, but I first need to clarify something! Yes...I do a lot of positive product reviews. No...I'm not paid to give my good word. If ever the day comes that I get ahold of a truly terrible product, I WILL let the world know!

 The products that I "apply" to test are specific. I don't apply for anything and everything. I only apply to test products that I have a specific need for. If I have perfect skin, for example, I couldn't help a company by reviewing an acne product. It would do no good, because I couldn't give an accurate representation or impression on if the product actually works.

The products that I apply for benefit my life in some way or correct "problems" that I have. Another example: you've seen a lot of hair and skin products on my blog lately. I can honestly say that product reviewing has greatly improved how I take care of myself and these "problems" that I have. I've had issues with slow growing, breaking hair for as long as I can remember. Since I've started testing oils, masks, and conditioners, my hair has shown significant growth over a short amount of time. I'm VERY happy! So when I give a positive review, it's because I have tested and SEEN the product work.

I Don't Sleep...So I Fake It.

Recently, I was offered the opportunity to test and review a product that I think anyone could use. There's a stigma that comes with skincare products: particularly anything firming, filling, or with the word "youth" in it. The idea is that if you use these products, you're admitting defeat with the enemy: aging. To me, it's not an issue of aging. It's WHEN it will happen. Now, I'm only 23, but I plan to stay this age for the next ten years or so, so I need to have proof to back it up. Skincare, to me, has become about preservation, being comfortable in my bare skin, and taking as best care of myself as I can. Not only is it good for my skin, but it's relaxing, too.

So upon being offered another product from InstaNatural (I love these guys, guys! Seriously!), I immediately said yes! Their products have been nothing but gentle on my sensitive skin and to find a brand like that is RARE! Typically, one product will work from a brand, and when I decide to branch out and try another...BAM! Allergic reaction.  

Another plus of the Youth Express Eye Serum? I. Don't. Sleep. I really don't. Some nights, I get 1.5 hours. Some nights I might get 5. It really depends. Sure, I feel really rested on 5, but it's only a fraction of the 8 hours suggested by doctors. Needless to say, I have BAGS. They are DARK. And therefore, the skin under my eyes isn't as firm or as youthful as it should be. See where the stigma needs to be thrown out the window? I'm not old by any means...but this product benefits me greatly!

A few of the other benefits, outside of being gentle: it doesn't have a harsh smell, it didn't hurt my eyes when I got it too close, the bottle is very aesthetically pleasing and the label is very well designed. The dispenser is very easy to use and the product doesn't just GUSH out like some that I have used. Also: a little goes a LONG way, so you know that your investment will last. :)

I need to point out: You won't see an immediate change. This product is great, but it's not an instant beauty spell in a bottle. You have to be patient, stick with it, and document where you've come from and where you are. I'm not sure if the results will "top off", but I will be sure to come back and update this post.

NOTE: I also plan to update with before and after photos, and my own image. If you are reading this, and there's a stock photo, I just haven't gotten that far yet! :)

Retinol Surge Moisturizer Review - Body Merry!

Hello, hello, again! :)

Yesterday, I reviewed a great little product (Azure Naturals Rosehip Oil), and today I wanted to continue my skincare streak with a review for a moisturizer I picked up via Tomoson! This particular moisturizer is from Body Merry.

I disclosed in my Rosehip Oil review that I tend to have very oily skin. Like...BAD. BUT...it's only oily on my cheeks, chin, and forehead. Other places (such as the top of my chin, the sides of my nose, and around my eyes) tend to be very DRY. Sometimes, to the point of being chapped. So what do I do? If I moisturize enough to ease the pain of the dryness, I'm a greaseball! If I don't moisturize, I'm still oily but I also have dry, flaking patches!

I knew I needed to find a moisturizer that wouldn't make me oilier and that would provide just enough moisture for those problem spots.

Enter Body Merry's formula.

My concerns with a Retinol moisturize were basically that it would be pumped full of chemicals. In the past, I've avoided them, even though I've heard great reviews. All it took was a little research to find that the company boasts:

"The formula does not contain any harsh chemicals such as Parabens, Sulphates or Phthalates. The moisturizer is made in the USA in an FDA registered and GMP compliant facility. It is not tested on animals."

Good enough for me! And I love that our furry friends don't have to suffer!

The moisturizer, when coming out of the pump bottle, is very thick. That being said, make sure you use it conservatively. There's no reason this one container shouldn't last months! I barely used half of a pump for my face and neck and felt VERY well covered!

Satisfied with the research, I slathered on. And yes, just like the Rosehip oil...I over did it. When applied CORRECTLY, this stuff works great! I wasn't too oily, as I expected from such a thick moisturizer, and my problem spots instantly became smoother and didn't hurt! I felt that it somewhat kept my oil under control and it definitely eliminated the shine that I so hate! I did notice a cleaner looking complexion, but as for if it firms, plumps, etc, I feel like I need to give it a little more use to be able to tell for sure. So, be expecting an update on this post...but I'm expecting great things! Overall, I am happy with this product!


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Yumi Beautiful Signature Antioxidant Skin Care Serum Review!

To begin: first impressions. When I opened my package (which was shipped super quickly, by the way!), I noticed a VERY professional looking box. There are no home-printed inkjet labels here. The design of the box was beautiful. The box is simple, but very bold in it's simplicity. The letters are spaced nicely and the consumer can tell that someone with graphic design experience put the box design together. The ingredients and instructions are very easy to understand and read. One of my main concerns on the first serum I tested was that the label was unclear and written in broken English. Immediate relief!

As I've mentioned before, freebie hunting and free sample websites were my gateway into product reviewing. I spent HOURS looking for free, small, samples and coupons. Then, I stumbled upon a product review group and said "see ya" to free samples. After all...who would waste time with that when you can review FULL SIZED products? Through a Facebook group, I received a face serum. The serum did the WONDERFUL job of clearing up my skin...but it had a lot of drawbacks that I happily ignored with the results it brought.

When asked to review another Vitamin C serum, I had to consider a few things: what made this product different than the last serum I had reviewed? Did it seem better? Worse? Was it something that I could tell my friends about and stand behind? How were the ingredients different? What about the company that backed it? Packaging?

Clearly I had a lot of research ahead of me.

I won't bore you with all of the specifics on one serum vs. the other. But I WILL tell you what I liked about the Yumi Beautiful Antioxidant Serum.

Ingredients: The #1 listed ingredient is Aloe. Typically, the first listed ingredient is the main component of the product. I'm glad that it's something natural and not something I can't pronounce!

Upon opening the box, the bottle is beautiful! :) It looks just as fantastic as the box does! The print and label are very clear and professional looking. The directions are printed on the bottle as well as the box, so you don't have to keep the box around to reference it!

The serum comes in a pump-type dispenser. This is so much more handy than a pipet because you can control how much comes out! The lid is clear with a silver edge on the bottom. It's a nice touch, design-wise, in my opinion (can you tell I'm an art teacher?).

Now: the dreaded part: actually trying the product. The last serum I tested smelled DISGUSTING! Think rotten oranges. I expect a Vitamin C serum to smell like citrus, but this one was terrible. The first thing I did after pumping the product out was to smell it. NO SCENT! This is especially helpful to those of you sensitive to perfumes! Hooray!

The consistency is a lot more watery than the thick, syrupy serum I used before. However, I realized that this is FANTASTIC when it comes to absorption. It glides on easily, and absorbs SUPER quickly. I had to wait about an hour for the other serum to absorb. This one takes a matter of a minute or two. With the other serum, my face felt extremely sticky. With the Yumi Beautiful serum, I cannot believe how soft my skin is after I use it! And the benefits go beyond that! My makeup goes on SO much more smoothly now! It's as good as a primer! AND you're treating your skin to Vitamins, Antioxidants, and other good things!

A final observation is that this product doesn't sting when I put it on. I feel no discomfort whatsoever, and I can see the benefits. It has been less than a week, but my discoloration and irritation has subsided and my blemishes are healing. My problem dry skin is correcting itself, and I'm an extremely happy "customer"!

Thank you, Yumi Beautiful!


What do you think? If offered the opportunity to win this product, would you participate?

EcoTools Deep Cleansing Pure Complexion Facial Sponge: First Impressions Aren't Everything!

Thanks to PinchMe, I received my BEST YET freebie box! At first I was pretty bummed that I had only received one item: the EcoTools Deep Cleansing Pure Complexion Facial Sponge. When it arrived, I ripped it open and was pretty disappointed to feel that it was HARD as a rock.

"There's NO way I'm using this thing on my face", I thought. 

But then...I saw that it supposedly got softer when wet. What the heck? It was worth a shot.

I initially used this sponge in the shower, and had NO hopes for it. However, once I got the sponge wet, it almost melted in my hands. It's really squishy and almost slimy feeling. But in an AWESOME way!! 

Here comes the part where I fangirl.

What makes this product SO amazing is:

1. It's soft. It doesn't scratch your face up like you'd expect. It literally looks like a lava rock when you open it.
2. The shape. The shape of this sponge is genius! It's rounded for an easy grip, has a pointed "top" to get in spaces beside your nose, under your jaw, etc. The flat bottom side is broad and allows for quick, thorough coverage.
3. LATHER! I KNOW that my bottle of face wash will last FOREVER with this sponge. Just a TINY amount of face wash goes a REALLY long way with this sponge. Imagine my surprise the first time I used it and used a FULL PUMP of facewash. Now, I barely press down on the pump and it's PLENTY. You're going to be saving money on face wash because you're wasting less!
4. I LOVE how my face feels after I use this sponge. Compared to just using my hands to wash my face...my face feels MUCH cleaner and ZERO percent oily! I almost cringe to think about using just my hands again! The level of clean that this sponge provides is phenomenal. For me, this is a NEED IT product that's right up there with toilet paper.

WHAT IS THIS WITCHCRAFT?!  

You can purchase this sponge for yourself here. With a price like that, you can't beat it! ESPECIALLY once you feel how CLEAN your face is gonna be!!