PRO 2200W Classic Hair Dryer by Xtava-Review

*PRO 2200W Classic Hair Dryer by Xtava

Up until I received a hair dryer from Xtava I really didn't realize what a difference a good hair dryer can make in your hair.  Not only have I cut my drying time in half because of the Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Technology that helps to break up water quickly for reduced dry-time but it also leaves my hair smooth.  The PRO 2200W Classic Hair Dryer by Xtava emits powerful negative ions to seal and smooth the hair's outer layer while helping to reduce frizz, increase shine for more natural looking hydrated hair.  This hair dryer also has 2 speeds, 3 heat setting, a cold shot button and a it also comes with a concentrator nozzle for more precise hair drying!  Great quality and great results!


Go to Xtava.com to check out their selection of awesome, quality hair tools. (I also LOVE their Infrared Flat Iron!)  You can also order the PRO 2200W Classic Hair Dryer by Xtava by clicking on the link below...

 

 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.

Derma Roller System-Review

*Derma Roller System

I have already done a few blog posts on the different Derma Rollers that I like to use is just about every size.  Well, I decided to go big or go home so I have been trying out this 2.5mm one from Derma Roller System for the last few weeks and I LOVE the results.

If you are not familiar with a Derma Roller the idea is that in order for our skin to have a smooth and healthy glow, it must continually be replenished with new cells.  When you roll a Derma Roller over your skin that is covered in fine medical-grade needles it causes the pores to open up and it also punctures tiny little holes in your skin pores.  While your pores are opened, it triggers your body's natural healing process to heal the pores thereby stimulating collagen and elastin production. The production of collagen and elastin helps to thicken the skin, smooth away fine lines and wrinkles and rid the skin of hyperpigmentations!  It's actually quite genius and it WORKS!

The 2.5mm represents the size of the needles and it's about as big as it gets.  Refer to the size chart below to find out what size works for what treatment.  I recommend that the 2.5mm be used with a numbing cream (Amazon has a large selection) to make it more comfortable to use.

Uses	0.5mm	1.0mm	1.5mm	2.0mm	2.5mm
Cell Regeneration	x	x	x	x	x
Upper Derma Reborn	x	x	x	x	x
Anti-Aging / Anti-Wrinkle	x	x	x
Light Scar, Pimples and Blemish	x	x
Deep Scar, Pores Refine Treatment		x	x	x	x
Enhance Nutrient Absorption	x	x	x	x	x
Cellulite and Stretch Mark Treatment		x	x	x	x
Hair Regrowth	x
Eye Treatment	x

I cannot recommend a Derma Roller enough!  Everyone should be using one as part of their skincare routine!  The Derma Roller System has even been featured with highest recommendations on The Rachel Ray Show and The Doctor's Show!

Go to DermaRollerSystem.com to order one or for more information on how to use and all of the benefits.  

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.

Green Tea Japanese Konjac Sponge-Review

*Green Tea Japanese Konjac Sponge

Konjac Sponges are the latest and greatest skincare product right now and I have been loving this Green Tea one that The Japanese Konjac Sponge sent me to review for them.  I have already been a huge fan of Konjac Sponges because they are great at exfoliating, removing dirt, oil, dead skin cells and even blackheads.  Plus, they also hydrate the skin and balance out pH.

This Green Tea Japanese Konjac Sponge is has extra special ingredients infused in it like Green Tea Extract and Green Clay and it's formulated for oily and combination skin types.  The Green Tea Extract and Green Clay helps with inflammation from acne, helps to prevent spots and leaves your skin soft and radiant.  I love that this sponge exfoliates and helps keep my skin blemish free and you don't even need to use a cleanser!

The Green Tea Japanese Konjac Sponge is 100% natural and handmade.  All plants and materials are made in Japan for quality and safety.  The sponge is also Paraben-free, contains no harmful chemicals, preservative agents, bactericide or fungicide.

Go to japanesekonjacsponge.com for more information and make sure you check out all the other varieties of sponges that they offer and get one specific to your skin type!  You can also purchase them from Amazon.com or by clicking the link below...

 

 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.

Premium Eyelash Curler by liveWIRE Beauty-Review

*Premium Eyelash Curler by liveWIRE Beauty

For me, a good quality Eyelash Curler is a "Must Have" beauty tool.  I naturally have hooded eyes so curling my eyelashes is something that I do everyday or at least on the days I wear make-up to help my eyes appear more open.

I have been testing this Eyelash Curler out from liveWIRE Beauty for the last several weeks and I am super impressed with the quality and there is no pinching or pulling of my eyelashes.  The Eyelash Curler by liveWIRE Beauty grabs all my lashes and gives me the perfect curl and helps me create that more wide-eyed that I am going for.

Another great feature is that the pad is made from hyperelastic sillicon that springs back to life immediately upon use and never requires refill pads!

Go to livewirebeauty.com for more information and you can purchase via Amazon.com or by clicking on the link below...

 

 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.

Facial Blotting Paper by Day by Day Beauty-Review

*Facial Blotting Paper by Day by Day Beauty

Ask me what an oily skin girls best friend is and I will tell you, blotting paper!  Even at my age, which is 41, I still have oily skin and I literally use blotting paper several times a day.  Trust me I have tried every product known to man to help with my my shiny face and most work to some degree but it never fails that at some point during the day I will need to bring out the blotting papers.

By the way, not all blotting papers are created equal!  As someone who has probably tried every blotting paper on the market I am very picky about my blotting papers.  I am not a fan of those silky type sheets, I like the paper kind and in my opinion they are way more effective at absorbing oil.

Recently Day by Day Beauty sent me 2 packages of their Facial Blotting Paper to try out and review for them.  Each package comes with 100 sheets that are made of premium-grade, natural pulp fiber that quickly absorbs unwanted oil and it does it without disturbing your makeup!  (I think I'm supposed to share the 2nd package they sent me with my girlfriends but I am pretty sure I need it more than they do!).  These are excellent quality blotting papers and just another great product from Day by Day Beauty!

Go to DaybyDayBeauty.com for more information or to purchase these Facial Blotting Papers or check out some of their other products.  I have also tried their Vitamin C Serum and their Hyaluronic Acid Serum and they are fabulous too!  You can order by clicking on the link below...

 

 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.

Konjac Sponge by La Lune Naturals Review + Giveaway

*Konjac Sponge by La Lune Naturals

Have you had a chance to get your hands on a Konjac Sponge yet?  These sponges are the "it" thing in skincare right now and rightly so!  Luckily, I have been able to try out several different kinds over the last few months.  Most recently I have been using the 100% Pure Konjac Sponge that La Lune Naturals sent me to review for them.  These sponges are amazing, the konjac fibers massage away impurities and toxins and gently exfoliate & remove dead skin cells to reveal soft, smoother skin that looks more radiant.  After just a few uses I noticed a difference in my skin and it has really helped keep those nasty blackheads and other face demons at bay!
The great thing about the La Lune Naturals sponges is that you get a 2 pack for only $12.99 via Amazon and usually you have to pay about $10.00 per sponge so it's a great savings.  Each sponge should last anywhere from 2-4 months and is made from the sustainable konjac plant, is free of chemicals, parabens, sulphates and is biodegradable.  Plus, the Konjac Sponge by La Lune Naturals is cruelty-free and vegan!
Have you tried a Konjac Sponge yet?  Well, now is your chance!  La Lune Naturals has generously offered to give away a 2-Pack of 100% Pure Konjac Sponges to one of my lucky readers!  Giveaway starts 02/16/15 @ 11 a.m. PST and ends 02/23/15 @ 11 a.m. PST.  Good Luck!

Entry-Form

You can also go to LaLuneNaturals.com for more information on any of their products and you can also purchase on Amazon.com.

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.

Yalmeh Foundation Brush-Review

*Yalmeh Foundation Brush

I was so trying to do a YouTube tutorial for this Foundation Brush that Yalmeh sent me to review but I just ran out of time!  The reason why I wanted to do the tutorial is so you could see how amazing this brush is and how well it works with both wet & dry foundation.  It's the perfect addition to my growing brush collection and I have been loving it!  The quality of the brush helps create a flawless finish for your foundation but it also works amazingly well as a bronzer brush!

The brush is made with top grade synthetic fibers for longevity and the quality of the fibers helps prevent shedding, it's also Hypoallergenic, Cruelty Free and Vegan friendly!  It's also super easy to clean.  I personally use baby shampoo to clean my brushes and it works perfectly on the fibers in this brush and they easily come clean.

One of the really great things about the Yalmeh Foundation Brush is the price!  We all know how expensive nice makeup brushes can be, especially a good quality foundation brush and at only $11.95 this brush is a total steal!

I feel so lucky because I have been able to try some really amazing products from Yalmeh,  Go to Yalmeh.com for more information on this Foundation Brush and all the their other amazing products.  You can also purchase by clicking on the link below...

 

 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.

Rimini 1500W Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Professional Hair Dryer by XTAVA-Review

*Rimini 1500W Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Professional Hair Dryer by XTAVA

I don't know about you but I usually use my hair care tools until they die, which, if I am lucky, is at lease a few years.  I've had been needing a new hair dryer for awhile and I have actually been using my travel hair dryer for the last year.  So, I was beyond excited to try out the Rimini 1500W Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Professional Hair Dryer that XTAVA sent me!

Can a hair dryer be life changing?  I had know idea how much a Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic could change the look and feel of my hair.  Usually after I dry my hair it ends up being a frizzy, puffy mess.  With the XTAVA Rimini 1500W Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Professional Hair Dryer my hair ends up being soft and smooth.  If you have never experienced a Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Hair Dryer then you need to get your hands on one ASAP and I cannot recommend this one by XTAVA enough!

Go to Xtava.com for more information on this hair dryer and make sure to check out their other beauty & hair care tools, I have also been testing out their Professional Infrared Flat Iron With Tourmaline Ceramic Plates and it's amazing as well!  You can also purchase the Rimini 1500W Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Professional Hair Dryer by XTAVA on Amazon.com or by clicking on the link below...

 

 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.

Professional 12 Set Makeup Brush Kit by Petunia Skincare-Review

*Professional 12 Set Makeup Brush Kit by Petunia Skincare

I have become a huge fan of all things by Petunia Skincare and my most recent favorite product is this amazing Professional 12 Set Makeup Brush Kit that they sent me to review for them!
  

I just so happened that I was in dire need of some new brushes anyway so every brush in the kit has been put to good use!  The kit contains a complete set of 12 brushes that include:

Powder brush

Blush brush

Foundation brush

Eyeshadow brush

Smudge brush

Fan brush

Concealer brush

Eyebrow blush

Eyeliner blush

Sponge applicator

Lip brush

Spoolie brush

I love the look & feel of these brushes and I am super impressed with the quality.  These brushes are definitely comparable to some of the other high end brushes that I own.  

I also love the cute travel pouch & brush guards that are included and will come in handy to help the brushes maintain their shape.
The brushes themselves are handmade from Natural and Synthetic and the hair is a combination of high quality pony hair, goat hair, and synthetic hair.  The Synthetic brushes are great for liquid-based makeup, while natural hair brushes pick up and distribute powder makeup evenly and smoothly. They are super soft and silky on top, yet durable and again, really great quality.  

Another great feature is that the pigment does not cling to hairs after application so you can blend and reuse colors without cleaning after each use.  They are also easy to clean, just run them run them through warm water, then clean with a gentle shampoo (I use baby shampoo), rinse thoroughly & place on a clean surface to air dry or blow dry.

Also, for all of us animal lovers...Petunia Skincare is a proud member of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), and does not test any products on animals.  No animals are harmed to create the natural brushes.
Go to PetuniaSkincare.com for more information & to purchase the Professional 12 Set Makeup Brush Kit & other Petunia Skincare products and you can also purchase by clicking the link below...

   

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.

My Tips & Tools to Keep Your Skin Looking Flawless

If it's one thing I am passionate about it is skincare.  I have tried so many products and tools over the years that I really do consider myself somewhat of an expert, even if it's only an expert regarding my own skin.
Even at the age of 41, I still have very oily skin and I constantly struggle to keep my skin clear of breakouts and I also deal with the on-going threat of spots from Melasma.  As a result, I have a few rules, tools & a Holy Grail products that I use to keep my skin in check and looking flawless and I am sharing them all with you!

My Rules for Keeping Skin Clear and Flawless

1. Cleanse skin a.m. & p.m. - Never go to bed with your makeup on!  You need to take full advantage of the fact that your skin repairs itself during the night which means it's the best time to use all your serums, lotions & potions since they will be the most effective during this time.  Also, never skip washing you face in the a.m. either.  Also, make sure you wash your face in the a.m. as well.  That nice glow on your face in the a.m. isn't just leftover residue from the product(s) you used the night before but it's also sweat!  If you simply cannot make yourself wash your face twice a day then by far the best choice is to skip the a.m.!
2. Pillow Cases - Pillow cases should be washed at least once a week.  I highly recommend to invest in some really nice, cotton, high-thread count (600+), WHITE pillow cases.  Why?  Because, higher thread count pillow cases are much more soft and much better for your skin and white because you can SEE how dirty your pillow case is and you are much more likely to was it if you can see the dirt and grime on it.
3. Clean your Make Up Brushes - This is one rule that is SO easy to skip but you should be cleaning your makeup brushes at least once a month.  There are a lot of fancy brush shampoos and soaps out there right now but I like to use baby shampoo, it's gentle, effective and best of all...cheap!
4. Moisturize - As someone with oily skin I know how it is to feel like you don't want to put any extra moisture on your face and when I was younger I used to be afraid of all moisturizers but now that I am...um...older and wiser I know better, much better.  Even oily skin needs to be moisturized.  For oily skin peeps like me a good oil-free moisturizer will actually balance out your skin and help reduce the amount of oil it wants to produce.  Just make sure you choose the right moisturizer for your skin type!
5. SPF - Whatever you do, DO NOT forget to put on SPF no matter what age you are!  This is especially important if you struggle with Melasma as I do.  Plus, the sun damage your getting today can wait and show up years later so you should be applying at least SPF 15 or more, to your face daily and with SPF in most lotions and cosmetics these days that should be fairly easy to do. 

My Favorite Tools & Products for Keeping Skin Clear & Flawless

I started to go into great detail about each tool and product but it started to turn into the longest post in blog history so I just decided to list the items that I use everyday or weekly basis.  If you have any questions about anything I use just leave me a comment or question below and I promise to respond back to you!
Also, I want to preface this list by saying that I use a lot of other skincare products simply because I am a beauty blogger and I test out everything that is sent to me by beauty & skincare companies and while I have yet to test a really bad product (Thank Goodness!!) I have a lot of different products in my rotation on any given day.  That being said, I want to mention that in addition to the list below, I highly recommend a good Vitamin C Serum that contains Hyaluronic Acid.  Please refer back to any of my previous posts for Vitamin C Serums & specific brands that I have tested and that I recommend.  Finally, here is my list in no particular order...

1. Clarisonic
2. PMD-Personal Microdermabrasion Tool - Holy Grail item
3. bliss Pore Fector 
4. Derma Roller
5.  IT Cosmetics - Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+
6. Paula's Choice Resist BHA 9 - Holy Grail Item
7. bare Minerals Matte Foundation SPF 15
8. Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer SPF 47

              


               

As I said, please make sure to leave me any comments or questions you have and I will respond back to you.  I would also love to hear your thoughts or any suggestions about products or tools that work for you!

KISS InstaWave-Review **Love This**

*KISS InstaWave

I am finally getting around to doing my review of the KISS InstaWave!  I LOVE this new hair curlng tool so I've been dying to do the review but it took me awhile because I really wanted to make it the first review that I did on YouTube.  I am really excited to finally be joining the ranks of my fellow beauty bloggers on YouTube.
I am not a naturally confident person so putting myself "out there" was a bit of a struggle for me but I am so glad I finally did it!

So, without further ado here is my review of the KISS InstaWave...

Go to KissInstaWave.com for more information!

I received the KISS InstaWave mentioned above for free using BrandBacker.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Precision Eyelash Curler by Majestic Bombay-Review

*Precision Eyelash Curler by Majestic Bombay

How cute is this Precision Eyelash Curler that Majestic Bombay sent me to review for them?  I love the look and feel of this curler.  It fits my eye shape really well and I am able to get grab all of my lashes so they all get a nice little curl to them.   

I think curling the eyelashes is one of those parts of a makeup routine that doesn't get much credit but when done correctly can really change your whole look.  A properly curled eyelash can make your lashes look longer, thicker, fuller, and the eyes themselves appear larger and more awake.

I love having the Precision Eyelash Curler by Majestic Bombay as part of my beauty tool arsenal!

Go to majesticbombay.com to check out some of their other products and go to Amazon.com to purchase a Precision Eyelash Curler for yourself!  Also, Majestic Bombay is offering my readers a $5.00 off Coupon Code: 5X8X9V9W just click the link below and enter code at checkout!

 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.

100% Plant Based Konjac Sponge - French Red Clay by Oleavine

*100% Plant Based Konjac Sponge - French Red Clay by Oleavine

I love these sponges.  I have tried a few of them and they really are a great addition to any skincare routine.  Lately, I have been using & alternating between the White & French Red Clay ones that Oleavine sent me to review for them.

If you haven't heard of a Konjac Sponge yet they are basically facial cleansing sponges that are all natural, eco-freindly and biodegradable (like you can throw it out in your backyard when your done with it kind of eco-freindly and biodegradable) that will exfoliate, cleanse, and the natural fibers help absorb excess oils, impurities and acne causing bacteria while leaving your face refreshed and radiant.  

The four different sponges are White, Red, Green & Black.  The White or Original is perfect for all skin types and even children.  Red is infused with French Red Clay and helps stimulate blood circulation and accelerate skin regeneration, leaving radiant and hydrated skin, perfect for all but really great for dry, sensitive or mature skin.  Green which is infused with French Green Clay and has antiseptic properties, is rich in minerals, and has natural absorbent properties that draw out excess oils, dirt and bacteria, especially effective for combination and oily t-zone skin.  Finally, Black (which I have done a review on as well and you can read that, here) is infused with Bamboo Charcoal and contains activated carbon and minerals that purify, supply antioxidants, help draw out excess oils and fight hard-to-reach acne-causing bacteria, especially effective for oily and acne-prone skin types.

The sponges last for about 6 weeks and you can even place them in the microwave to sanitize the sponge, just place a WET sponge in a bowl full of water, then microwave it for 1 minute while monitoring it.  You should never microwave dry or slightly damp sponge.  Carefully remove the sponge or simply leave it for few minutes until it cools off.  Once cool, rinse it with running water and then allow to dry.  Just make sure you follow directions exactly or you could damage the sponge.

To purchase one of these innovative sponges go to Oleavine.com or you can also purchase at Amazon.com.  The best part is if you are not 100% Satisfied Oleavine has a 90-day Money Back Guarantee!

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.

100% Plant Based Konjac Sponge - Original White by Oleavine-Review

*100% Plant Based Konjac Sponge - Original White by Oleavine

I love these sponges.  I have tried a few of them and they really are a great addition to any skincare routine.  Lately, I have been using & alternating between the White & French Red Clay ones that Oleavine sent me to review for them.

If you haven't heard of a Konjac Sponge yet they are basically facial cleansing sponges that are all natural, eco-freindly and biodegradable (like you can throw it out in your backyard when your done with it kind of eco-freindly and biodegradable) that will exfoliate, cleanse, and the natural fibers help absorb excess oils, impurities and acne causing bacteria while leaving your face refreshed and radiant.  

The four different sponges are White, Red, Green & Black.  The White or Original is perfect for all skin types and even children.  Red is infused with French Red Clay and helps stimulate blood circulation and accelerate skin regeneration, leaving radiant and hydrated skin, perfect for all but really great for dry, sensitive or mature skin.  Green which is infused with French Green Clay and has antiseptic properties, is rich in minerals, and has natural absorbent properties that draw out excess oils, dirt and bacteria, especially effective for combination and oily t-zone skin.  Finally, Black (which I have done a review on as well and you can read that, here) is infused with Bamboo Charcoal and contains activated carbon and minerals that purify, supply antioxidants, help draw out excess oils and fight hard-to-reach acne-causing bacteria, especially effective for oily and acne-prone skin types.

The sponges last for about 6 weeks and you can even place them in the microwave to sanitize the sponge, just place a WET sponge in a bowl full of water, then microwave it for 1 minute while monitoring it.  You should never microwave dry or slightly damp sponge.  Carefully remove the sponge or simply leave it for few minutes until it cools off.  Once cool, rinse it with running water and then allow to dry.  Just make sure you follow directions exactly or you could damage the sponge.

To purchase one of these innovative sponges go to Oleavine.com or you can also purchase at Amazon.com.  The best part is if you are not 100% Satisfied Oleavine has a 90-day Money Back Guarantee!

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.