First Cleanse Favorites

All throughout the month of January I will be sharing my favorite and most used products of the moment.  So, it seemed only fitting to start off with cleansers, more specifically cleansers that I use for my first cleanse.  If I'm not wearing makeup then I will normally just use a regular cleanser or cleansing balm.

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

First up is my go-to first cleanser which is the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water.  It's gentle, removes makeup without having to scrub and best of all it's extremely affordable.  I can pick this up at my local Walmart or on Amazon for a little over $6.00 for 13.5 ounces and will last me several months.  Dermatologist tested for safety.  It's Dermatologist and Ophthalmologist tested and it's non-comedogenic so it won't clog pores.
Love this stuff!

Pure Bliss Micellar Cleansing Water

This Pure Bliss Micellar Cleansing Water is also a really great choice for a Micellar Cleansing Water that I like to use.  It's a great quality Micellar Water and it's formulated without Sulfates, Parabens and Phthalates among other harsh chemicals and is perfect for all skin types.  It dissolves makeup and leaves skin feeling fresh and clean.  This one is a little more on the expensive side at $14.95 for 8 ounces and can be purchased on Amazon.

Super Facialist Probiotic Micellar Cleansing Water by Una Brennan

Probably my favorite Cleansing Water is this Super Facialist Probiotic Micellar Cleansing Water by Una Brennan.  I love the formula of this one and it easily removes all traces of makeup, dirt and oil without altering the skin’s natural barrier.  It contains a Probiotic complex that helps balance and 

condition skin.  I would buy this one on a regular basis but since it's a UK brand it can be difficult to find.  I was lucky enough to find a couple bottles at our local TJ Maxx for only $6.99 for a 6.7 ounces.  I have also been able to find it on Amazon for $14.95 although it's not always in stock.

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

As cleansing oils go this is probably the original and easily a favorite of mine.  This DHC Deep Cleansing Oil instantly dissolves all makeup even waterproof mascara and eyeliner and removes all traces of dirt and oil.  Just by adding water it emulsifies into a milky consistency and easily rinses away.  It leaves skin feeling clean and soft and hydrated.  Rich in vitamins and antioxidants

it not only cleans but nourishes skin.  Another great thing about this cleansing oil is that it's pretty easy to find.  I typically get mine from Dermstore and is $28.00 for a 6.7 ounce bottle.  Since a little goes a long way it lasts forever!

Mineral Fusion Makeup Removing Oil Cleanser

Here is another great cleansing oil that I love.  It's the Mineral Fusion Makeup Removing Oil Cleanser that can remove even some of the most stubborn makeup while leaving skin soft and supple.  Made with Organic oils it's cleans, hydrates and soothes skin making this a great option for all skin types!  At $18.99 for 1.9 ounces it's not cheap but it's sooo good for the skin.  Plus, you can find it at most health food stores like Whole Foods or sometimes you can even find it on Amazon for a lot less.

So, there are some of my First Cleanse Favorites!  Do you double cleanse?  If so, what kind of products do you use?  I would to hear what you like to use so let me know in the comments below...

This is not a sponsored post.  I will only recommend products or services that I enjoy using personally and that I think my readers would enjoy also. All opinions are my own. 

This post may contain affiliate links which will help support my blog and I thank you in advance for your support. If you do not wish to use my links, no hard feelings, just do a search for the product and or brand on the interweb!

***Giveaway*** Age-Defying Night Cream by Nerium International

*Age-Defying Night Cream by Nerium International

Unless you've been living under a rock you have probably heard of Nerium, specifically their Age-Defying Night Cream.  Everyone who tries the Age-Defying Night Cream by Nerium International ends up loving it and I'm no exception.

I've had the pleasure of trying the Night Cream a few years back and loved it then too.  The only problem was I couldn't afford to continue to use it.  As most of you know it comes with a pretty hefty price tag, retailing for $120.00 for a one time purchase.  However, you can get it at a $30.00 discount by signing up for their auto delivery which you would probably want to do anyway since it's just that good.  The great thing is that you can easily make one bottle last a couple months and if you look at it in terms of a monthly cost it suddenly becomes more affordable.

So, what's all the hype about this Night Cream?  Well, it basically does everything you would want a anti-aging cream to do.  It combats the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and helps prevent new ones from forming, it smooths out textured skin, lightens hyperpigmentation, helps to firm and tighten skin and it even helps to protect skin from free radical damage which can cause skin to prematurely age.  It also boosts cell renewal which helps keep skin looking young and it even fends off skin-damaging inflammation and can make large pores less noticeable.  Plus, the best part is that you can easily see a difference in your skin virtually overnight and it keeps getting better with continued use.  But, don't take my word for it, here are some results based on independently conducted clinical trials that are really impressive...

93% of participants showed statistically significant improvement in the appearance of wrinkles.
92% of participants showed statistically significant improvement in skin’s radiance.
72% of participants showed statistically significant improvement in discoloration.

What makes this Age-Defying Night Cream by Nerium International so unique, revolutionary and unlike any other Night Cream is not just the formula which contains the proprietary ingredient NAE-8 but also the consistency.  The consistency of the cream is fairly thick and designed to adhere to the skin much like a mask would.  I find that it works best if you apply it to damp skin so I like to use a nice hydrating facial mist first.  You can keep it simple and just splash a little water on your skin too but I recommend a nice, hydrating facial mist like Mario Badescu's Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater.  I'm no expert but I feel like it absorbs into the skin a little better when it's applied to damp skin.  Make sure to apply it to the face, neck and decollete for the best overall results.  Nerium recommends using 4-5 pumps for the face and neck but I find that 2-3 works perfectly fine and is what will make it last an extra month or two!  I would recommend this Night Cream for all skin types and all ages.
I've been using this Age-Defying Night Cream by Nerium International over the last couple of months and have noticed significant improvement in my skin.  I do take really good care of my skin on a regular basis so I didn't see huge improvements it was more like my skin just looks better overall.  It seems to look younger, firmer and more smooth.  However, I really noticed an improvement in my decollete area.  I wish I would have taken a picture #hindsight!  I suffer from Melasma of my face, neck and especially my chest area and within about 1 week I saw remarkable improvement to the pigmented areas.  They were far less noticeable.  I also noticed that the skin in my decollete area was much more smooth and younger looking as well!
This Age-Defying Night Cream by Nerium International has definitely earned a permanent spot in my skincare regime!!

Here are a couple of un-retouched before and after pics of real people with real results and you can find even more here...

Now for the fun part!  My dear friend Jennifer is a Brand Partner for Nerium International and she has offered to giveaway one FREE bottle of this amazing Age-Defying Night Cream a $120.00 value, to one of my lucky readers!  

The giveaway starts 12/27/16 at 11 a.m. PT and will run through 01/31/17 until 11 p.m. PT.

The winner will be announced by 02/02/17 and will be notified via email.

Sorry, U.S. Residents only.

Entry-Form

Also, if you have any interest in joining Nerium or would like to order Nerium products please visit Jennifer's Nerium website!

This is not a sponsored post.  I received this product at a discount in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.  I will only recommend products or services that I enjoy using personally and that I think my readers would enjoy also.  All opinions are my own. 

This post may contain affiliate links which will help support my blog and I thank you in advance for your support.  If you do not wish to use my links, no hard feelings, just do a search for the product and or brand on the interweb!

Alpha Hydroxy Cleanser, Alpha Hydroxy Toner, Alpha Hydroxy Moisturizer and Replace Face Mask by IQ Natural & Organics

*Alpha Hydroxy Cleanser

I think using acids as part of your everyday skincare routine is the best thing you can do for your skin.  Even better is to use a natural and organic line of skincare like IQ Natural & Organics.  IQ Natural & Organics has a great line of Alpha Hydroxy skincare that I have been testing out over the last couple of months and my skin is thanking me for it!

First up is their Alpha Hydroxy Cleanser which is a gentle but extremely effective cleanser.  It not only gives skin a nice deep clean but it also helps exfoliate dead skin cells which leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.  I highly recommend using it with a Clarisonic or Foreo for the ultimate cleanse.  This would be a great cleanser for any skin type.

*Alpha Hydroxy Toner

The best way to follow up with the Alpha Hydroxy Cleanser is with their Alpha Hydroxy Toner!  This toner helps to lighten hyperpigmentation, further exfoliate dead skin cells and also helps to smooth skin texture.  I especially love using this toner when I have a breakout.  It helps to heal and clear blemishes without leaving skin feeling dry and dehydrated like other toners can.  I would definitely recommend this toner for all skin types.

*Alpha Hydroxy Moisturizer

The Alpha Hydroxy circle would not be complete without the IQ Natural & Organics Alpha Hydroxy Moisturizer.  Following up the cleanser and toner with this moisturizer ensures younger, softer and smoother skin!  This Alpha Hydroxy Moisturizer is packed with anti-aging ingredients along with Alpha Hydroxy to help keep skin looking fresh and new.  It's a lightweight moisturizer that is easily absorbed and leaves skin feeling hydrated and soft and works great as a primer for makeup.  Of course, I would also recommend this moisturizer for all skin types!

*Replace Face Mask

If you have been a follower of my blog for any length of time then you already know how much I love a good face mask and I have tried a ton of them.  However, I have yet to try any other face mask quite like this Replace Face Charcoal Detox Mask.

The Replace Face Mask is very unique in the fact that it helps heal and clear up any blemishes, helps lighten scars from blemishes and other hyperpigmentation and helps balance skin's oil production.  All that while leaving skin feeling really hydrated and soft, maybe even a little plump!  It has a gel-like texture to it that is easy to apply and very gentle on the skin.  I like to apply to my face, neck and decollete and leave on for at least 15 minutes and then rinse.  For best results I would use at least three times a week.  This is another one that I would recommend for all skin types!

These are just a few of the quality products that IQ Natural & Organics has to offer and I am dying to get my hands on a few others!  

Make sure you take a look at their full line up over on iqnatural.com!

This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. However, I will only recommend products or services that I enjoy using personally and that I think my readers would enjoy also. All opinions are my own. 

This post may contain affiliate links which will help support my blog and I thank you in advance for your support. If you do not wish to use my links, no hard feelings, just do a search for the product and or brand on the interweb!

***Giveaway*** Schwartz Bioresearch Supplements

***Giveaway*** 
Schwartz Bioresearch Supplements

Just in time for the New Year!  

Schwartz Bioresearch is a brand of supplements that I know, trust and use regularly and they are hosting an amazing Giveaway!

Enter to win on if the following and get your New Year off to a healthy start...

1st prize: VitaMix + 1 (one) $250 gift card for their Amazon store* to kickstart your journey to wellness (1 winner) 

2nd prize: 1 (one) $250 gift card for their Amazon store* to kickstart your journey to wellness
(5 winners) 

3nd prize: 1 (one) $60 gift card for their Amazon store* to kickstart your journey to wellness
(5 winners) 

Holiday Giveaway for Moms - $2,200 worth of prizes

I will only recommend products or services that I enjoy using personally and that I think my readers would enjoy also. All opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links which will help support my blog and I thank you in advance for your support. If you do not wish to use my links, no hard feelings, just do a search for the product and or brand on the interweb!

Vitamin C Serum by Belitae Organics

*Vitamin C Serum by Belitae Organics

If you haven't tried a Vitamin C Serum yet you are seriously missing out.  I mean, what are you waiting for?  I am constantly recommending Vitamin C Serums to my friends and family.  I just think it's one skincare product that you can get the most bang for your buck.  Of course, you want to make sure to pick out a good quality Vitamin C Serum that has quality, natural and Organic ingredients.  This Vitamin C Serum by Belitae Organics is the perfect choice!  Not only does it contain quality, 98% natural and 72% Organic ingredients but it also contains Hyaluronic Acid as well which can help provide skin with additional moisture.  The potent combination of ingredients in this Vitamin C Serum helps to even skin tone, smooth texture, diminish the look of fine lines and it even helps skin look more firm.

I like to apply my Vitamin C Serum in both my morning and evening skincare routines.  Just gently press in a few drops to freshly cleansed and toned skin on face, neck and decollete.  You can follow it up with other serums and I also highly recommend topping it off with a nice moisturizer for best results.

Best part is, this Vitamin C Serum is ideal for all skin types from acne to very dry!  Plus, it's at a great price point for only $13.97 and it would make a great gift idea for the upcoming Holidays!!

You can find this Vitamin C Serum by Belitae Organics on their website belitae.com or over on Amazon.com...

 

 This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. I will only recommend products or services that I enjoy using personally and that I think my readers would enjoy also. All opinions are my own. 

This post may contain affiliate links which will help support my blog and I thank you in advance for your support. If you do not wish to use my links, no hard feelings, just do a search for the product and or brand on the interweb!

Purifying Cleansing Gel by Exuviance

Purifying Cleansing Gel by Exuviance

This Purifying Cleansing Gel by Exuviance has been my "go to" face wash for weeks and has now earned a permanent place in my morning and evening skincare routines.  I am never disappointed by any Exuviance product and this one quickly became a new favorite of mine!  I now know my skin and I cannot be without it!

While I generally love a good purifying cleanser some of them that I've tried in the past have left my skin feeling a bit stripped and dry.  However, this Purifying Cleansing Gel by Exuviance leaves my skin feeling refreshed, free of impurities, balanced and not at all stripped of my skin's natural oils.

All you need is a little is an eraser size amount of this cleansing gel to clean your entire face and neck.  The gel lathers into a nice, soap free foam which gently but effectively removes all traces of makeup, dirt and surface oils.  Packed with antioxidants, botanicals and vitamins along with Glycolic Acid and gluconolactone this cleanser helps soothe and protect skin while exfoliating dead skin to help keep skin clear and improve skin texture.  For a deeper and more intense clean and for added exfoliation benefits I also like to use it with my Clarisonic, they make the perfect pair!

Within just a few days I noticed that my skin started to look and feel more clear, even toned and smooth all without feeling dehydrated.  It's really the prefect cleanser for me and I would highly recommend giving it a try!  I would actually recommend this Purifying Cleansing Gel for all skin types, even sensitive skin since it is so gentle.

You can find this Purifying Cleansing Gel by Exuviance over on Exuviance.com.  It retails for $34.00 for a generous 7.2 ounce tube.  Since a little goes a long way a tube this size will last forever!

This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. I will only recommend products or services that I enjoy using personally and that I think my readers would enjoy also. All opinions are my own. 

This post may contain affiliate links which will help support my blog and I thank you in advance for your support. If you do not wish to use my links, no hard feelings, just do a search for the product and or brand on the interweb!

Natural Mineral Based Sunscreen For Face And Body SPF 30 & Natural Insect Repellent by Smart Stuff

*Natural Mineral Based Sunscreen For Face And Body SPF 30 by Smart Stuff

Just because summer is over doesn't mean you can forget putting on that sunscreen.  This Natural Mineral Based Sunscreen For Face And Body SPF 30 was my go-to sunscreen this summer and I haven't stopped using it.

This is a nice good-to-your-skin mineral based sunscreen that can be used from head to toe.  It's non-oily and is formulated without synthetic chemical sun filters, free of Parabens, PABA, Petroleum, Phthalates, there are no artificial colors or fragrances AND they do not do animal testing!!  Basically it's free of all the bad stuff which is really important these days.
Not only is this a great SPF but it also works well as a moisturizer.  It's lightweight, absorbs quickly and doesn't leave that annoying white sheen on your skin.  Perfect for year round protection!

You can find this Natural Mineral Based Sunscreen For Face And Body SPF 30 over on smartstuff.com and retails for $32.00.

*Natural Insect Repellent by Smart Stuff

While we won't be needing this Natural Insect Repellent by Smart Stuff again until spring we used a ton of it on our hikes and on our camping trips this summer!
If you love all natural options for Insect Repellent then you must get your hands on this.  Unlike some other natural options I've tried this one actually does a great job at keeping those annoying Mosquitoes at bay.  Plus, it actually has a nice refreshing scent not that gross chemical scent that's typical of most repellents.  Obviously, it now has a permanent place in my backpack!
However, I did find that when we ran into a really thick swarm of Mosquitoes I needed to bring out the bad stuff with the Deet.  Unfortunately, sometimes you might just need a little Deet.  That being said, this Natural Insect Repellent by Smart Stuff did a great job at repelling the average number of Mosquitoes and is safe for the whole family.  I will always reach for this first from now on and like I said it has a permanent place in my backpack!

You can also find this Natural Insect Repellent by Smart Stuff over on smartstuff.com and it retails for $25.00.

This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. I will only recommend products or services that I enjoy using personally and that I think my readers would enjoy also. All opinions are my own. 

This post may contain affiliate links which will help support my blog and I thank you in advance for your support. If you do not wish to use my links, no hard feelings, just do a search for the product and or brand on the interweb!