Amara Organics is a small, family-owned business dedicated to providing quality products to their customers. Their Vitamin C Serum is 98% natural, 72% organic, vegan, and cruelty free. I can feel good about putting this product on my skin. The serum is filled with potent ingredients that are known to reverse the effects of aging and environment on the skin. Most of us know that Vitamin C is good for your internal environment and keeps our immune systems balanced, but what do you know about Vitamin C for your external environment? When absorbed into your skin, Vitamin C replenishes your skin and provides the following benefits:
~Increases the production of collagen to restore skin's natural elasticity and counteract fine lines and wrinkles
~Powerful antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals to reverse damage caused by the sun, pollutants, and cigarette smoke
~Protects your skin from UV damage such as age spots, discoloration, and fine lines
~Improves skin texture to give you a smoother, brighter complexion
~Combined with Vitamin E and Hyaluronic Acid for extra powerful anti-aging effects
Who knew Vitamin C was such a powerhouse! I love all serums, including this one from Amara Organics. There was one thing that was different about this serum. This serum is, by far, the thinnest and wateriest serum I have ever met. It was strange at first, as I am used to serums of a thicker consistency. However, the serum absorbed quickly and deeply into my skin. It has no scent and my skin loves this stuff. The consistency makes it slightly difficult to transfer successfully from my hands to my face as it travels quickly down my hands but that is not really a problem. My suggestion is that you rub your hands together immediately after using the dropper to dispense some of the liquid. (I do love the dropper method to serum application.) Overall, this is another great Vitamin C Serum and retails for only $19.95. If you have purchased serums in the past, you know that is a pretty unbelievable price. Find out more by clicking the link:
A serum penetrates your skin to moisturize so deeply that the surface of your skin does not feel moisturized at all. Hence, my constant reminder to moisturize after applying use of a serum. Make sure the serum dries first and is fully absorbed.
More than a million people travel to the Mediterranean every year to visit the sacred Dead Sea. This extraordinary body of water is said to be have therapeutic qualities and contains minerals that are great for the skin, such as magnesium, sodium, bromine, potassium, and calcium. Visitors travel from all over the world to do this
and absorb all of the nutrients that the saltiest place on earth has to offer. Did you know the Dead Sea is roughly 8.6 times saltier than the ocean? All part of its glory. Any way, someday I will be one of these people slathering mud on my entire body in the middle of Israel, but until then I will use my new Dead Sea Mud Mask made by Instanatural.
Instanatural Dead Sea Mud Mask is made with Pure Dead Sea Mud, Organic Shea Butter, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Organic Calendula Oil, and Hickory Bark Extract. It starts working immediately upon application to absorb excess oil, dirt, and toxins from the skin. The uses and benefits of this mud mask are endless. It is a great way to expunge acne and blackheads, but it also restores skin tone for a more even complexion. So far I have only used the mask on my face but it can also be used as a body treatment, and believe me when I say I will! When used on the body it can help relieve muscle aches and pains. I love this stuff!
The mask comes in a large 16 oz. container that I am certain will last longer than one year. It is recommended that the mask be used no more than once a week because of the high concentration of minerals. You would not want to dry out your skin. With a thin application, I use a very small amount with each use. The texture is kind of like pudding. Actually, it is exactly like pudding. I suppose this might depend on your own texture issues, but I like it.
I love that this mask is ready for application right out of the jar. There is no mixing and no mess. You simply open the jar and spread a thin layer on your skin. You will feel tingling while waiting for the mask to dry. You can actually feel the impurities being pulled to the surface of your skin. Instanatural also says if you have overly sensitive skin you should not wait for the mask to dry entirely. I waited about 15 minutes before removing the mask and it was almost completely dry. I never expect instant results but my skin did feel extra smooth. I am excited to add this to my weekly routine.
Also added to my routine is Instanatural's Professional Formula Youth Express Night Cream. This cream has deep hydration properties that provide ultimate nourishment for the skin. It is thick and creamy and only a few dabs can be used for the entire face and neck. It is great to use in the crazy cold weather happening across the country right now. The cream works deeply on my dry, somewhat flaky skin but it also works on the redness that seems to appear because of the harsh winds slapping my face. My skin feels so much better than it has in previous winters. I think I have to thank Instanatural for that.
You can learn more and purchase this mask and/or lotion for yourself by clicking here and here.
As I continue to search for the meaning of life I try a new-to-me probiotic made by Zenwise Labs. Super Strength Ultra-15 Probiotic is healthy for children and adults and contains 10 natural probiotic cultures that assist in the body's digestive process. A healthy digestive system is very important to me. It is not something you often appreciate, unless you have experienced the terror of an unhealthy one. I am grateful for this Super Strength Probiotic because anything that aids in my digestion is a friend to me. But these are not just any probiotic, they also work to improve your immune system by protecting your body from harmful bacteria.
If that is not enough, this tablet also claims to improve your mood. This is the perfect things right now. Most people have overeaten during the holidays and could use a little immunity, and everyone gets a little seasonal depression during these long winters, right? This little tablet helps with all of those things! It is an important component to balancing your system. Here are the key features of this Super Strength Probiotic:
Contains 15 billion CFU to promote digestive and intestinal health
Promotes a healthy immune system
Improves mood and energy levels
Relieves stomach discomfort
Zenwise products are also all natural and made in the USA. They have been working for me so far, I recommend you get your body balanced with this Ultra-15 Probiotic. Click here to learn more about Zenwise Labs.
*Sponsored by BrandBacker in exchange for my honest review
Guess what I'm reviewing today. A serum! That's right, Instanaturals' Age-Defying Skin Clearing Serum with 20% Retinol, 2.5% Salicylic Acid, 2% B3, and Tea Tree Oil. I would like to start by reminding everyone that I love this company. I love the products, but they also provide excellent customer service, including 100% money back guarantee if you are not fully satisfied. They really want you to be happy with your purchase. I have been happy with every product I have received from Instanatural. This serum is another great product, though there is a bit of a twist, that I will get to later.
Age-Defying Skin Clearing Serum is full of skin loving ingredients that would often need to be found in several different products. So it will not only save you money, but it will save you time as you can get all the benefits in this one blue bottle. It is a one-stop-shop for those who want to reverse the signs of aging while treating acne and hyper pigmentation. Sulfur deeply penetrates the skin, which allows the retinol and salicylic acid to unclog pores while the niacinimide reduces redness and inflammation. Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid work together to repair sun damaged and scarred skin, giving you a healthier, glowier complexion. I do love these ingredients and having them all together in one product makes me happy.
After applying the serum my face feels moisturized, without feeling greasy. The formula is gentle and is great for all skin types. I have sensitive skin and have not experienced any problems with this serum. On the contrary, my skin loves these ingredients and this formula. Sometimes products with Vitamin C make my skin burn after application, but I have not experienced any burning with Instanatural products.
Now for the twist. What on earth is that smell? I have not completely figured out what the smell is. The only thing I can think of is that it smells like the sea. Not like "ahh, the sea" but like the deep, dark, murky sea. I can't place it entirely but there is something a little funky going on in that bottle. This has not stopped me from using the serum and I still love the product, but it definitely does not have the fresh smell of the other Instanatural products I have used. Full disclosure, I looked at other reviews to see if anyone else had this experience and I have found no one that agrees with me. Most reported that the serum has a mild citrusy scent, so it is possible that this was a product of a unique batch. Every other Instanatural product I have used had the citrusy scent that others described, so I would not rely solely on my smelly bottle. And hey, it can't be that bad if I'm still using it.
Radha Beauty Skincare is a small online cosmetic distributor that was started in 2014 by a woman with a dream that involved high quality, organic cosmetics that are effective and good for Mother Earth. Radha Beauty sent me three skincare products to test and review here on this blog. The three-part system includes the Intensive Youth Eye Gel, Vitamin C Serum, and the Retinol Moisturizer. The products are filled with natural, organic ingredients that your skin will love. My first step, after washing my face, is to apply the Eye Gel.
This 0.5 fl oz bottle might not seem like much, but a little goes a long way so I am confident it will last a long time. I use about half a pump for both eyes and still have some leftover on my fingers to dab across my forehead. Be sure to dab around your eyes, so as not to stretch your delicate skin. Radha Beauty Eye Gel has a light, crisp, cucumber scent that just might be my very favorite scent (I forgot how much I love the smell of cucumber)! The gel is thick and spreads easily, but also absorbs very quickly and can be used underneath makeup. Here is a list of some of the key ingredients:
*Matrixyl 3000: Firms & tightens the skin around the eyes
*Aloe, Cucumber, Vitamin E, & Rosehip Oil: Nourish the skin with natural ingredients
*Hyaluronic Acid: Deeply moisturizes the skin to reduce skin problems that occur with age
*Also contains Plant Stem Cells and Jojoba Oil
This gel feels incredibly cooling and fresh as I dab it on my eyes. Like I said, I also put this on my forehead but it can be used as an allover facial treatment for enhanced glow radiance. I cannot clinically say this has changed my fine lines and wrinkles but it feels great on my face and I sure that it helps with my puffy morning eyes (I have puffy morning eyes). The cooling gel is a great way to start my early early mornings. After the eye gel I apply the Vitamin C Serum all over my face.
The Radha Beauty Vitamin C Serum is a thin, runny serum that I was not certain I would like but it soaks right into my skin and does not feel greasy. It is specially formulated to stimulate collagen production and renew aging skin to a more youthful appearance. It has virtually no scent at all and just like the eye gel, a little goes a long way. Start with 1 pump as it spreads very easily. I like this serum and I think it has already begun to improve my skin tone. I will provide more information on this product in the future, after I have used it for several weeks. On a side note, I love the packaging. The final step? After the Vitamin C Serum has FULLY soaked into the skin and dried (it only takes a few seconds) it is important to apply a rich moisturizer. Enter the Miracle Retinol Moisturizer.
Another great piece of packaging, this Retinol Moisturizer comes in a tall, sleek, silver bottle with a fancy little pump. But let's be real, what matters is the product. I have been in love with Retinol Moisturizers for most of my adult life (I swear by them, in fact) and this one does not disappoint. This serum is formulated with 2.5% Retinol Complex that provides both immediate and long-term release to promote radiant skin. The Retinol increases cell turnover rate to give you newer, brighter skin. It is a thick and creamy moisturizer that makes for a great final step in the three-step process. I love that it is 71% organic with natural ingredients such as Organic Aloe, Green Tea, Jojoba Oil, and Shea Butter. So moisturizing!
Needless to say I am a satisfied customer with these products. The best part is that if you are not satisfied with your purchase, you can get 100% of your money back, without even returning the bottle. The customer service is incredible.
Here are a few discount codes for you to use when you purchase Radha Beauty Skincare on Amazon:
Purchase any 3 Radha Products and receive $5 off with code RBEAUTY3
Purchase any 4 Radha Products and receive $7 off with code RBEAUTY4
Purchase any 5 Radha Products and receive $9 off with code RBEAUTY5
With all of the hype around serums lately, you might be wondering what is a serum? Dermatologists and cosmetic chemists say that a serum is more effective than a regular moisturizer because the ingredients are concentrated with active ingredients that deliver a powerful punch of nutrients to the skin. This also means they are able to target problem areas such as dark spots, acne, and redness. Valentia Even Glow Serum is made with 98% natural ingredients, including 20% Vitamin C, Sea Buckthorn Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, Green Tea, and Botanical Hyaluronic Acid. These ingredients combined, provide a rich Antioxidant that works with your natural body chemistry to promote a youthful appearance. The oils in the serum are used around the world for their powerful healing properties.
Valentia Even Glow Vitamin C Serum for face has a thick consistency that feels like a big drink of water for my skin. It absorbs quickly and smells like oranges. I love this scent as it reminds me of summer, which is an added bonus in these dreary winter months. It is important to thoroughly cleanse your skin prior to applying the serum. This gives the serum the opportunity to deeply penetrate your skin without clogging your pores from the gunk that collects there throughout the day. I have found it is best to use this only once a day, especially when you first start using it, because the ingredients are very powerful and could be overwhelming to your skin if you are not used to the ingredients. I have even started using this serum on my hands, because the skin on our hands ages almost as fast as the skin on our faces.
These are the benefits reported on the Valentia website:
Evens Skin Tone
Vanquish dark spots and discoloration, replacing uneven and ill-textured skin with smooth, wrinkle-free skin that leaves you looking flawless and ageless.
Increases Glow & Radiance
Revitalize your skin with essential fatty acids that leave skin smooth and radiant. Smooth skin capable of reflecting light will give your skin a youthful glow and a brilliant shine for that well-rested and refreshed look.
Absorbs Rapidly
Moisturizes skin due to the capacity of the hyaluronic acid to absorb water, thereby increasing fluid between cells, giving your skin a smoother and younger appearance. This intense water absorption means no more dry, peeling, or cracked skin, even in extreme weather.
Boost Collagen Production
The presence of Organic Rosehip Seed oil increases collagen production so your skin retains the elasticity responsible for a youthful appearance and prevents skin sagging associated with aging. Enjoy smooth and supple skin that takes years off your appearance.
Reduces Wrinkles & Fine Lines
Reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles with the help of our foundation 20% Vitamin C. Special ingredients such as Sea Buckthorn oil plump up the skin, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles in the skin so it is smoother, clearer, and younger.
I cannot honestly attest to all of these claims. I can say that my skin feels healthy and moisturized. Given the extreme cold weather that I have been living in, this is a big deal. My skin tends to get flaky and red in the winter. I have not had this problem since using the serum. I also think my skin has a glow that is usually nonexistent in the winter, when my skin turns completely dull and lackluster.
You can purchase Valentia Even Glow Serum for $35 by clicking on the following links:
I have a new best friend named Instanatural. If you still have not tried Instanatural products, it is time! You can get 100% of your money back if you are not satisfied with the product, but I really think you will like it. I love testing their products and I have yet to try one that I did not also love. Most recently I have been testing the Youth Express Eye Serum and Eye Gel. Once again, I was happy with the products I received. I will start with the serum (look at the color of that serum!).
Of course the first thing I noticed about the serum is that vibrant blood orange color! I have never seen a color like this in a serum. It is a beautiful color and, most importantly, it does NOT turn my skin orange. The serum absorbs really quickly, which is great because that means I can use it morning and night without adding a lot of extra time to my routine. I use the dropper and only one dab works for both of my under eyes. Dab it on, or roll it on with the pads of your fingers. If you rub you continue to stretch your skin and cause further wrinkling. I also dab it on between my eyebrows and on my forehead. Most of my wrinkles are laugh lines and smile lines so this is the perfect, lightweight product for me. Here is what Instanatural has to say about the serum:
*Lightweight yet effective
*Diminishes dark circles and puffiness
*Powerhouse formula with a combo of Vitamin C, Plant Stem Cells, Astanxanthin, Kojic Acid, Caffeine, Hyraluronic Acid, & more
After the serum has absorbed into my skin a quickly follow it with the Youth Express Eye Gel. The gel is great for puffiness and dark circles. My busy work schedule leaves me with little sleep so, more often than not, I wake up with sad, puffy eyes. I use the gel morning and night. It is so light and cooling that my eyes feel refreshed every time I apply it. Instanatural says:
*Hydrates, firms, and plumps skin
*Diminishes dark circles and puffiness
*No parabens, sulfates, or alcohol
*Uses organic ingredients
*Goes on gently and safe for all skin types
Key ingredients in this product include:
*Plant Stem Cells mitigate premature signs of aging
*Matrixyl 3000 tightens and firms the skin
*Hyaluronic Acid deeply moisturizes skin
*Other nutrient rich ingredients are Jojoba Oil, Aloe, Vitamin E, Amino Acid, Complex Cucumber Hydrosol, & more
Once again, Instanatural pulls off a nutrient-rich product for my skin. Whether you apply both the serum and the eye gel, or just one of the products, make sure you follow that with a rich retinol moisturizer. This will lock in the moisture and the nutrients of the Youth Express Eye products. Instanatural's Advanced Action Retinol has all of the wonderful ingredients that you expect from their products. All 3 can be purchased from Amazon for a discounted price. You can also find more about Instanatural's products by clicking here.
More Instanatural reviews to come, including this product!
As you know I have been experimenting with different probiotics in my quest for a healthy gut. I have always known probiotics to work by targeting the gut to regulate the digestive system. Did you know that 90% of your digestive health is in your mouth? I didn't either. And apparently there is also a probiotic, Hyperbiotics PRO-Dental formula to be exact, that specifically focuses on repopulating your oral health and nasal cavities. Apparently many of our dental problems (cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and sinus infections) are a result of the probiotics in our dental cavities being depleted. And because this is where digestion begins, you want to make sure your mouth is healthy. PRO-Dental will repopulate essential probiotics for a healthy mouth. But there are other benefits to taking this chewable, minty tablet. Here are the claims:
-Dissolves plaque and bio-film that causes cavities, staining, sensitive teeth, and gum disease
-Target bad breath without killing the good bacteria (apparently mouthwash kills the good with the bad)
-Balance you healthy microflora to prevent health problems
-Guards against ear, nose, and throat infections
If you are wondering about the taste I can tell you that it is not bad! The tablets have a subtle minty flavor that is not too overpowering. They are slightly chalky in texture but nothing that is bothersome.
So far I feel good about taking PRO-Dental. It can only help, right? I do my best to take care of my oral health but there are always improvements to be made. I occasionally suffer from bad breath and I want to have healthy, balanced microflora. It sounds pretty, don't you think? I cannot say that I have noticed any major difference, but I certainly cannot visibly see my microflora. My opinion? It is worth trying if you have chronic ear, nose, throat and/or mouth problems. Bad sinuses are in my genes so I will continue to take these probiotics and hope for the best! I also love that Hyperbiotics products are all-natural.
Want another suggestion for healthy digestion? You should chew your food 10 times because the longer you chew, the more saliva has an opportunity to mix in. (See…it starts in the mouth.) This helps guide the food and work its way through your digestive tract. So chew your food 10 times and take your Hyperbiotics PRO-Dental formula. Your gut will thank you.
You can purchase Hyperbiotics PRO-Dental tablets by clicking the following links:
