Category: Product Review

Beauty /

Belli Skincare Stretchmark Minimizing Cream – Review

After having kids and experiencing life changes, we all have stretch marks.  This is a sensitive topic (for women) because it’s difficult to find a product that reduces the appearance of uneven skin and imperfections.

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As a blogger, I will admit that I’ve tested a few drugstore products.  The best advice I can share is to create a “stretchmark” regimen and be patient when seeking results.

Review:

I was asked to review the Stretchmark Minimizing Cream from Belli Skincare.  The company’s known for creating products that support pregnancy and early motherhood.  According to the site, ” while expecting their first child, the founders of Belli became very discouraged trying to find safe and effective skincare. This prompted the husband and wife team to marry their expertise, Medical Doctor and Beauty Expert, and develop the trifecta of maternity skincare – ingredient safety, effective solutions with clinically proven ingredients, and luxurious formulations with aromatherapy to provide a spa-like experience.”

After reviewing the product, I am happy to share this is an amazing cream!  The texture is light with visible appearances of hydration.  It’s stated (on the company site) that the minimizing cream has natural ingredients and helps to even out the skin tone.  It also smells nice and can be applied anytime during the day.  I have used the product for a few weeks and confident it will provide wonderful results!

The cream can be purchased online or in store at Nordstrom and Ulta.com  See more information about the product below:

Stretchmark Minimizing Cream from Belli Skincare (www.belliskincare.com), which is specially formulated to decrease the appearance of existing stretchmarks of any age, regardless of the cause? The Cream features darutoside & regisstril, ingredients shown in research studies conducted by Phybiotex Labs, Sederma Group, France, 1997 to visibly reduce the appearance of stretch mark depth by up to 72% and stretch mark length by up to 52%. SRP $49.00

Belli Stretchmark Minimizing Cream

Don’t forget to use the coupon code: “BELLI703879″ for 20% off the entire line on Belli’s website through August 31, 2016.

Birmingham /

Sparkling Ice Water and Recipes

Sparkling Ice has a new water product line.  This is awesome because you can take your health and beverage selection to the next level.  The carbonated water’s infused with natural flavors and zero calories.  My personal favorite is Peach Nectarine.

Customers can also enjoy Sparkling Ice in a variety of ways beyond sipping from a glass.  Did you know the product line’s used in recipes?  Take a look at the selections below:

Ingredients

SPARKLING ICE Cherry Limeade
Mint Leaves
Mashed cherries
Lime
Club soda

Yield – 1 cup

Prep Time – Less than 5 minutes

Ingredients

½ cup Peach Nectarine Sparkling ICE
½ cup seedless raspberry preserves
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Combine Sparkling ICE and preserves in a bowl and beat with a whisk until combined.
Whisk in Dijon mustard and black pepper.

Serving Suggestion:

Pairs well with cooled roasted beets, topped with walnuts, and blue cheese.

Toss dressing with baby spinach, red onion, goat cheese, and strawberries.

Yield 2 cups

Serves 6-8 people

Ingredients

2 Bottles Sparkling Ice Cherry Limeade
1/3 Cup Soy Sauce
5 Garlic cloves, crushed
1/2 Tablespoon Fresh Ginger, minced
1 Tablespoon whole black peppercorns
1 Teaspoon red pepper flake
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 lbs. Pork Tenderloin
Salt and Pepper
1/2 cup Scallion, sliced thinly

Directions

To prepare the marinade, whisk together Sparkling Ice Cherry Limeade, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, whole peppercorns, red pepper flake and olive oil in a large bowl.
Place pork tenderloin in a large zip lock bag or shallow baking dish.
Pour marinade over pork, cover or seal.
Refrigerate for 6 hours.
Remove pork from marinade and pat dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Reserve the liquid.
Place marinade in small saucepan and bring to a boil. Turn heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Preheat your grill (medium high heat).
Place pork on pre-heated grill and close the cover. Turn and brush the pork with the simmered marinade every 5 minutes. Cook until meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork registers 145°F, about 15-20 minutes.
Rest for 10 minutes, slice and serve with scallions and warm marinade liquid.

All recipes are from Sparkling Ice.com

Beauty /

Beauty Essentials with Instant Results – Summer Tips

Summer days call for more time spent outdoors, but being in the sun for too long can leave your skin and hair in need of some TLC. Reverse damage from sun, sand and sweat thanks to these beauty necessities that change your look in an instant!

Instantly lift dirt and oil from your pores thanks to Bioré Deep Cleansing Charcoal Pore Strips! With next generation proprietary c-bond technology and potent charcoal, the strips remove clogs and weeks’ worth of buildup so you’ll see 3x less oil. Containing witch hazel and tea tree oil, the formula refines pores to diminish their appearance over time. ($7.99; Drugstores and Mass Retailers)

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Calm skin that’s irritated by the sun with instant moisture thanks to Curél Itch Defense Instant Soothing Moisturizing Spray. Uniquely soothing, this formula delivers a mix of light yet potent hydrators — including a proprietary ceramide complex, allantoin and panthenol — to ease parched, itchy skin right where you need it. The Proprietary Cooling Complex feels soothing like a cold compress, lending you instant relief. ($8.99; Drug and mass merchants)

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After a long day and night out, diminish the look of dark circles with Masque Bar Hydro Gel Eye Dark Spot Eye Patch! This is an eye zone treatment that is enriched with Gold, Adenosine and Snail Extract helps improve elasticity and brightness, and diminish the signs of aging. It is also effective to help reduce the appearance of eye puffiness and dark circles. ($29.99; Select Ricky’s NYC locations and www.rickysnyc.com)

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Give your strands a break and skip the heating tools thanks to Hairdo! Instantly transform your hair with the Simply Straight 18” Pony Extension – a polished pony that will leave you looking chic, but modern all day long. Depending on the look you’re going for, Tru2Life heat styelable fiber lets you wear this piece curly or straight without causing any damage to your hair! ($49; Ulta.com)

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Beauty /

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula – Product Review

Palmer’s has a new formula for skin care enthusiast!  They’ve expanded beyond the cocoa butter ingredient and infused a new product line with coconut oil.

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There are so many benefits to using coconut oil such as anti-aging and anti-viral properties.  This natural ingredient smells great and works on all skin-types.  I decided to review the new Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula due to my personal use of the oil substance.  My results are below:

Product Review – 

  1. The Coconut Oil Formula smells amazing!
  2. My face, hands, legs, and feet received an instant natural glow.
  3. The texture blends nicely on the skin’s surface.  This is not a greasy substance!
  4. After application, the formula doesn’t easily stain other objects.
  5. Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula gives an appearance of skin rejuvenation through the it’s natural agents.

Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula

The product line also come in various sizes (and quantities) which helps small skin care touch-ups.  For example, I keep the Coconut Oil Hand Cream in my purse to moisturizer the cuticles.  It’s also stated to have No Dyes, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Parabens, and Gluten.

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On a scale of one to ten, I give the Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula a TEN and suggest everyone try this product for their summer beauty regimen!

Beauty /

Nivea Lip Care Challenge – Product Review

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of Nivea skin care products.  My connection with the product line started years ago when searching for a good hydrating, daily lotion.  In the winter months, I suffer from dry skin and in the summer I strive to have a beautiful glow.

I was invited to take the Nivea Lip Care Challenge and gladly accepted the offer. The goal behind the lip products is to provide a quick swipe of shimmer for a rooftop happy hour or make sure your lips are protected against the sun at the beach.

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We often forget about caring for the lips; only concerned with the latest cosmetics brand, shade or gloss.  I found myself using the Nivea products at various times of the day.  For example, before bedtime I would use the Mint and Minerals lip balm.  I preferred the Smoothness Hydrating with SPF 15 sunscreen during the day while out in the sun.  My personal favorite was the Milk and Honey Lip Care.

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I also keep my lip balms in a cosmetics bag for easy access. Using the lip care products helped to repair my lips from the harsh winter season.  It’s a must-have product that can actually be used all year long.  Nivea Lip Care balms are found at various drugstores or your local Target.

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Beauty /

Mascara Favorites for Reasonable Price – Top Three Brands

Can we talk about the use of mascara?  I’ve discussed on this website my obsession with the product due to having small eyes.  After months of testing various wands, I want to share my top three favorite brands.  All of the products featured are under the price of $25.00 and can be picked up at any beauty store.

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This is the ultimate mascara and has nothing to do with the great price!  After visiting numerous Youtube videos, a fellow vlogger shared her love for this mascara.  I decided to test it out for myself and discovered that my eyes looked amazing without faux lashes.  Maybelline Lash Sensational can be purchased everywhere from Target to Rite-Aide.

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LOreal Voluminous Superstar was second in demand.  This particular mascara has a two-step process for any makeup enthusiast.  Start with the primer on your lashes for volume and apply the super-lifting mascara.  My lashes appeared much longer with the use of this brand.

Elizabeth Arden Grand Entrance

Elizabeth Arden Grand Entrance was sent for a product review.  This mascara made the list because the wand is small which decreases clumps, flakes, or smudges.  The Elizabeth Arden brand is a bit more expensive but does yield amazing results.

If you have a favorite brand of mascara that’s not listed here, please feel free to share in the comments section below!

Lifestyle Tips /

Sparkling Ice Teas New Flavors – Product Review

WHAT: Sparkling Ice®, part of the Talking Rain® Beverage Company portfolio, announced a new packaging design for its great tasting, zero calorie, Sparkling Ice Tea product line, which now includes Lemon Tea, Raspberry Tea, Peach Tea and new Half & Half flavors.

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The introduction of the Sparkling Ice Tea collection in early 2015 provided the brand with a new opportunity to expand on-shelf presence at retailers nationwide by offering a variety of products in assorted categories to meet a wide-range of consumer demands. The new packaging features bold colors and bright fonts designed to reflect each of the Sparkling Ice Tea flavors and refreshing characteristics.

As part of the new design debut, Sparkling Ice will also merge its current Sparkling Ice Lemonade with Tea product into the tea collection, renaming the flavor “Sparkling Ice Tea Half & Half.” Half & Half has the same great taste that consumers have come to love, and makes the perfect addition to Sparkling Ice Tea’s line of refreshing pick-me-ups that deliver just the right amount of fizz.

The full Sparkling Ice Teas collection now includes, Raspberry Tea, Lemon Tea, Peach Tea, and Half & Half flavors.

WHEN: April 5th, 2016

WHY: As the leaders in the sparkling water category, Sparkling Ice continuously seeks out new opportunities to meet the demands of our dedicated customers. Through the redesign and expansion of its Ice Tea collection, Sparkling Ice is responding directly to consumers searching for healthier beverage options.

WHERE: The new teas packaging is currently available in select retail outlets across the country via single serve bottles. For more information about Sparkling Ice products and flavors, please visit www.SparklingIce.com and www.facebook.com/SparklingICE.

About Sparkling Ice Beverages:
Sparkling Ice beverages combine sparkling water, natural flavors, fruit juice, vitamins and antioxidants to offer a great tasting lightly carbonated beverage, all without the calories. Sparkling Ice is the Bold Side of Water, offering a bold, flavored, lightly-carbonated beverage that appeals to all age groups. Available in eleven refreshing flavors: Black Raspberry, Orange Mango, Pink Grapefruit, Kiwi Strawberry, Coconut Pineapple, Pomegranate Blueberry, Peach Nectarine, Lemon Lime, Crisp Apple, Cherry Limeade, Strawberry Watermelon and new in 2016 Black Cherry. Sparkling Ice Lemonades, launched in 2013, are available in three refreshing flavors: Classic Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade and Peach Lemonade. Sparkling Ice Teas launched nationally in 2015 and include Peach Tea, Raspberry Tea, Lemon Tea and Half & Half flavors. SPARKLING ICE can be found in retailers nationwide. Sparkling Ice is part of the Talking Rain family of beverages, and retails for $1.19-$1.29. To locate Sparkling Ice, visit www.sparklingice.com/locate/.

Review – 

Truthfully, we consume too many beverages that are not healthy.  Our selections are either loaded with sugar, sodium, acid, or caffeine.  In a previous life (teaching Nutrition and Foods) I learned that anything your body craves is considered a deficit.  This means your body has a lack of the proper vitamins or minerals.

Sparkling Ice is a great substitute from our normal unhealthy beverages because it’s caffeine free, gluten-free, and zero calories.  To make this beverage more appealing, it comes in a variety of flavors!

My first connection with the product was actually through my husband.  He tested one for me (smile) and said, “Kim this tastes really good!”  From that point, I have started to sip Sparkling Ice as a soda substitute.  My favorite flavor is the Raspberry Tea.

Take my advice and try Sparkling Ice Tea to get on track with your dietary needs!

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Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center – Spa Week

It’s been a while since I’ve indulged in a good spa service. Life can get very busy and we often forget to take time out for ourselves!

Luckily, we can (all) visit the spa and still splurge on a new pair of pumps.  Spa Week is a great time to check out local wellness or beauty centers.  Anyone can sign up on the website and find discounted treatments.  A few of the $50 services include Eucalyptus Mint Massage, Cat-Eye Lash Extensions, Aloe Vera Jelly Pedicure, or Chemical Peel Treatment.

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I was invited to visit Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center.  The service I received was the Custom Lotus Bliss Massage.

Prior to starting my treatment, the owner (Nicole Stokes) shared a few facts:

  1. The center specializes in wellness and all of the products used are organic (bath salts, lotions, candles.)
  2. The services also include special enhancements such as sinus relief massage, scalp massage, thermal softening treatment, and custom aromatherapy.
  3. The practitioners have a medical or science background which enhances the total spa experience.

 

Lotus Bliss Spa Review – 

My massage started with selecting a few essentials oils, depending on my personal preference.  I made the selection based on relaxation.  From there, I was able to smell the aroma while Nicole created a special lotion. My treatment also included a stimulating face massage (infused with essential oils.)  The steam instantly relaxed my facial muscles and allowed for easier breathing.

Nicole also shared information about the Chronic Pain and Lymphatic Massage.  This particular treatment is encouraged (or suggested after doctor recommendation) for those suffering with specific illnesses such as fibromyalgia.

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The experience of visiting Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center was truly an educational session.  I learned a lot about aromatherapy and the health benefits associated with receiving a massage.  The center also sales products to their customers that will enhance their body treatment at home such as bath salts, essential oils, or massage balls.

Visit their website to learn more and book an appointment.

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Colors /

Keep Clothes Bright and Less Fading – Laundry Secrets from Downy Ball

Surveys show that Americans spend a decent amount of money on clothing. Women spend about $59 and men spend about $25 a month. The average family bringing in an income of $50,000 spends about $2,000 a year on new outfits. On top of the money being invested in new shirts, pants, sweaters and other garments, laundry can be a real pain in the neck. Stain removers don’t always eliminate the entire mark left behind by spilled coffee or mystery smears, and color-enhancing detergent only extends the lifetime of clothing for so long. To help prevent having to purchase new clothes there are tips to help keep darks from fading, sneakers from tumbling into pieces in the dryer and white shirts from having ugly armpits.

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Downy Ball has compiled some of the best laundry secrets and shortcuts since the invention of the modern washing machine and dryer to help consumers look their best with minimal effort. These tips include:

  1. Buy a sneaker dryer bag to eliminate the loud banging from your shoes.
  1. To prevent color fading, toss your clothes in the wash with a teaspoon of salt for a brighter look.
  1. Wash dark clothes inside out to keep them from fading. The detergent won’t drain the color and this easy trick will keep favorite shirts and pants looking newer longer.
  1. Save time, energy and money by throwing a dry towel into the dryer with wet laundry – this will reduce moisture in the machine and speed up the drying process.
  1. Remove underarm stains with a homemade recipe instead of bleach or stain sticks. Mix Dawn dishwashing liquid, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda to create a scrub that gets stunning results.
  1. Remove grease stains with a piece of chalk. Even if you have already washed a garment hoping soap and water would do the trick, that stain isn’t a permanent part of your wardrobe and chalk can still save the day.

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About Downy Ball

No more waiting for the rinse cycle. No more cleaning out the dispenser. With the Downy Ball, fabric softener is automatically released during the rinse cycle. To enjoy the convenience of Downy Ball just pour the Downy fabric softener of choice up to the right fill line in the Downy bottle cap, pour into the ball, seal it, and drop it in at the start of the wash on top of fabrics. Downy Ball will release the softener on its own, making laundry less complicated.

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Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Transitional Sweaters – Dryel Home Care Tips

When it comes to fashion, the laundry does not stop!  One discovers (very quickly) the proper care and treatment of garments is vitally important.  Each article of clothing has its own label that includes the fabric percentage, content and suggested laundry needs.

I have a few sweaters that I’ve started wearing to help with the transition of seasons.  In this region, the weather fluctuates; one day it’s cold enough to wear a cashmere tunic and the next day I’m searching for an open-front cardigan.

Dryel is such an important product (for your wardrobe) because it’s easy to use, inexpensive, and less damaging to your clothing.  The product contains 6 cloths and for hard to clean stains, the company provides a booster spray.

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From my personal experience, the kit was simple and resulted in my sweaters smelling great.  I opened the Dryel ultra cleaning cloth and placed inside of the bag (with my sweaters.)  After tumbling in the dryer for 30 minutes, I removed the sweaters and put them on a satin hanger.   This was an easy laundry process for a lady on the go!

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Check back with the site (over the next few months) and I will share additional tips from Dryel At-Home Cleaner. 

 

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