Oval Brush Set by Nora's Brushes

*Oval Brush Set by Nora's Brushes

It's always nice to get new brushes.  Especially when they are brushes that you've been wanting for a long time!  I have been dying to get my hands on these Oval Brushes forever but since I already have a ton of makeup brushes I really couldn't justify spending the money.  So, you can imagine my excitement when I was sent some to review!!

This Oval Brush Set by Nora's Brushes isn't the original, super expensive Oval Brush Set.  But, it's a great alternative and super affordable at only $23.95 and I think that's a great bargain for some seriously great brushes!

The brushes seem to be great quality and are made with hygienic, super soft, synthetic hairs which means they are also cruelty free!  I've been testing them out for a few weeks now and I have not had any issues with any shedding which is usually an indication of a poor quality brush and no shedding here!

The brushes blend liquid and powder foundation beautifully and I really like that they do not absorb a bunch of the product like some brushes can.  I haven't mastered the eye brushes just yet.  I think those may take a little more practice but I am a definitely a fan of the bigger face brushes! 

I highly recommend checking these brushes out for yourself or getting them as a gift for someone.

Here is a pic of my brushes and you can see some product on the brushes but barely any at all.  That's a good thing, that means less product is being used which saves money!

You can find this Oval Brush Set by Nora's Brushes over on Amazon.com...

 

 This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount or complimentary 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!

Age-Defying Eye Serum by Nerium International ~ Giveaway

*Age-Defying Eye Serum by Nerium International

I've taken the last couple of months to really test out a variety of Nerium products.  I wanted to see if they could live up to all the hype and so far so good!  I most recently tested and reviewed the ever popular Age-Defying Night Cream and I can say I am definitely a fan of it and would recommend it if it fits into your budget.
Next up is the Age-Defying Eye Serum and another great Nerium product!  This Eye Serum is one that you will be able see instant benefits and results and well as in the long term benefits.  If you have puffy eyes this will rapidly de-puff them and you can say goodbye to dark circles!  It will also make fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable.  The Age-Defying Eye Serum will immediately hydrate, tighten, lighten and brighten the entire eye area.  However, due to the tightening effect of this serum it may not feel as hydrating as other eye creams and serums.  

I've seen some really amazing results with this Eye Serum.  Some lucky peeps have even reported that they no longer need to use concealer when they use this Eye Serum!  Unfortunately, I'm not one of those lucky peeps but it has really helped with my puffy eyes, fine lines and at least made dark circles less noticeable!

The other thing is this Eye Serum is a little more labor intensive than a normal serum or cream.  There is a little trick to using this Eye Serum and to get the best results.  All you need is one pump for both eyes (they recommend using one pump for each eye but I found you can get away with one or one and a half for both).  Take a few seconds to gently smooth the serum around the eye area and make sure to pay close attention to those fine lines and wrinkles.  Once the Eye Serum is evenly spread you will need to stop smoothing and stay expressionless for 30 seconds as the product dries.  Voilà, a new, younger looking YOU!  

If you still feel you need to use concealer just make sure the Eye Serum is completely dry before applying any makeup, otherwise the Eye Serum can possibly ball up under the makeup (I know because I have had this happen to me and trust me it's not a good look!).

Here are a few un-retouched before and after pics that are pretty incredible...

The Age-Defying Eye Serum by Nerium International has been dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested and is ideal for use on all skin types.  For ingredients and more detailed information you can go to Nerium.com.

The Age-Defying Eye Serum retails for $80.00 or you can get it for $60.00 it you sign up for auto-delivery.  If you would like to purchase the Nerium Eye Serum you can contact Nerium Brand Partner, Jennifer @ 541-815-1119 or visit her Nerium website!
You can also enter the Giveaway below and win a FREE Age-Defying Eye Serum!

The giveaway starts 06/22/17 at 9 a.m. PT and will run through 07/14/17 until 9 a.m. PT.
The winner will be announced by 07/17/17 and will be notified via email.

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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!

My Top Picks for Skincare As Seen On Afternoon Live!

My Top Picks for Skincare As Seen On Afternoon Live

I was lucky enough to be asked to join Tra'Renee on the KATU Afternoon Live show and share some of my favorite skincare products that I am loving right now.  I tried to narrow down my top picks to seven products.  While seven sounds like a lot I could have easily added about five more!

I decided not to include a cleanser in my top picks simply because there are so many of them out there and I think it’s more important to focus on actual skincare as opposed to something that just removes makeup, oil and debris and is only on your skin for a limited amount of time.  I also didn’t choose any sunscreen since most makeup and some skincare contain sunscreen these days.  I also feel like sunscreen would be an obvious choice and something most people already use on a regular basis.

All the products below are listed in the order of which they should be applied to the skin, from the lightest to heaviest, serums first and oils last.

Facial Mist/Toner 

I use a facial mist/toner in both my morning and evening skincare routines everyday.  Immediately after I wash my face and while my skin is still damp I will apply some type of a face mist/toner.  I recommend using a toner that is suited for your skin type and that will help balance the pH levels in your skin.

A great option and one that would be great for all skin types is the Essance Revitalizing Facial Toner.  This toner is hydrating and will help balance all skin types as well as the pH levels on the skin which should be around 5.5.  Plus, it’s made with Organic ingredients, smells amazing and it’s locally made in Portland!

Revitalizing Facial Toner by Essance Skincare

Cost: $12.00 for 60ml

Eye Cream 

I have a ton of eye creams that I like and that I alternate back and forth depending on how my eyes are feeling and looking.  Lately, for daytime I find myself reaching for the Farmacy Eye Dew.  This is the perfect “day” eye cream.  It feels hydrating, firming and soothing all while minimizing fine lines and dark circles.  Plus, the packaging is beautiful!

Farmacy Eye Dew

Cost: $38.00 for 15ml

  At night I prefer something a little thicker like the Super Fruits Eye Balm and it's usually my go to nighttime “Eye Cream".  It has the texture of Vaseline and it's thick, rich and balmy.  It's very nourishing, hydrating and for me it's the perfect nighttime Eye Cream.

Super Fruits Eye Balm

Cost: $36.00 for .35oz

Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

The Vitamin C Serum from Oz Naturals is a multi-tasking skincare product and one that can be used in both morning and evening skincare routines.  Not only does it contain 20% Vitamin C which helps even out skin tone, improve hydration and protect skin from free radical damage created by the sun and pollution but it also contains Hyaluronic Acid.  Hyaluronic Acid has powerful anti-aging properties and just one gram of it can hold up to six liters of water.  It can help skin retain moisture, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and can make skin smoother, supple and more youthful and is recommend for all skin types.

Vitamin C Facial Serum

Cost: $17.95 for 30ml

Firming Serum

For those of us over 30 this Aveda Tulasara Firm Concentrate is “Must Have” serum.  This serum will help instantly help tighten the skin and when used over time it will firm the skin and visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles.  I love this product for the neck and décolleté!

Can be used in both morning and evening skincare routines.  Recommended for all skin types but especially aging skin.

Aveda Tulasara Firm Concentrate

Cost: $59.00 for 30ml

Moisturizer/Face Oil

Instead of your typical moisturizer cream I usually opt for facial oil.  I like to use Lapis Facial Oil by Herbivore.  It contains Blue Tansy Oil which helps with inflammation, redness and also it also antibacterial so it helps clarify the skin,  I have very oily skin and this oil helps balance it out.  It hydrates my skin in such a way that helps stop it from producing excess oil leaving me with perfectly nourished, balanced and hydrated skin.  Oily skin needs moisture too!

I only use this particular oil in my morning skincare routine.  This Lapis Facial Oil by Herbivore is formulated for people with combination, oily or blemish-prone skin.

Lapis Facial Oil by Herbivore

Cost: $72.00 for 50ml

Acids 

Unless you have perfect skin Acids are something I think everyone could benefit from.   If you’re an acid newbie or have sensitive skin I recommend starting with a product that contains Glycolic Acid which is an Alpa Hydroxy Acid or AHA.   Pixi Glow Tonic contains Glycolic Acid; it’s a great option, suitable for all skin types and can be used in place of your Toner.  It exfoliates, purifies and will help accelerate cell renewal to give you a brighter, more even toned complexion and ultimately…younger looking skin.

Pixi Glow Tonic
Cost: $15.00 for 100ml

However, if you have aging or pigmented skin I recommend something a little stronger.  The Lactic Acid Superficial Peeling Formulation from The Ordinary is a great option.  This Lactic Acid Peel is great for fading hyperpigmentation, sun spots Melasma or even old blemish spots.  It also removes dead skin cells and accelerates cell renewal which will help diminish fine lines and wrinkles.  Overall, skin looks and feels more youthful.

This Lactic Acid Peel should only to be used at night, just a few times a week and in place of any other serums.  I also don’t recommend using other types of acids or Retinols while using this Lactic Acid Peel.  Make sure to follow it up with a nice, hydrating night cream or facial oil.

Lactic Acid Superficial Peeling Formulation from The Ordinary

Cost: $6.79 for 30ml

Night Cream/Face Oil

Nighttime is the prefect time to really treat and nourish the skin.  I find most traditional Night Creams are way too heavy for my oily skin and tend to break me out and I find oils to be more beneficial.  I have a few that I alternate between but my go-to has got to be the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate.  It contains a blend of skin-loving oils that help replenish and restore skin overnight and in the morning skin looks more clear, healthy and supple!  Recommended for all skin types.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Cost: $72.00 for 1.7oz.

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!

Organic Super Glow Mud Mask by Maywood Creek Essentials

*Organic Super Glow Mud Mask by Maywood Creek Essentials

I love a good Mud Mask!  There is just something satisfying about the entire process of doing a mud mask.  From putting it on and feeling it go to work on the pores to washing it off and revealing refreshed skin.  It's very cathartic!

This Super Glow Mud Mask by Maywood Creek Essentials is a great way to take a time out and have some "me" time.  It's a little different from the other "Mud Masks" that I own in that it doesn't dry down to what I like to call a "crust" layer that has to be scrubbed off.  Instead, since it can also be used as a regular cleanser it has more of a whipped texture that doesn't completely dry down.  I like to buff it into my skin and leave on for about 20 minutes and wash off using a damp washcloth.  Once the mask is applied it almost instantly gets to work on my pores and I can feel it drawing out all the gunk that I keep stashed away in them.  I also like that it instead of drying out my skin this Super Glow Mud Mask actually leaves my skin feeling hydrated, that's a nice change compared to other mud masks that can strip the skin leaving it dehydrated.

After just the first use my skin felt revitalized, soft and smooth.  After using it a few more I noticed my blemishes were healed and some hyperpigmentation spots also seemed less noticeable!  

I would consider this mask to be more on the gentle side and I can get away with using it 4-5 times a week.  If you have really sensitive skin you may only want to do it 2-3 times a week.  Either way it's a great multi-tasking mask!

The Organic Super Glow Mud Mask by Maywood Creek Essentials retails for $19.33 for 8.8oz.

You can find this Organic Super Glow Mud Mask by Maywood Creek Essentials on castlerockessentialproducts.com or over on Amazon.com...

 

 This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount or complimentary 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!

Dry Shampoo by label.m

*Dry Shampoo by label.m

I often wonder how I survived without Dry Shampoo back in the day.  Did I just walk around with greasy hair or did I just wash it more often?  Hmmmm...all I know is I am SO glad to have Dry Shampoo in my life now!

A good Dry Shampoo will not only reinvigorate unwashed hair but it will also add great texture and make hair easier to style.  There are two types of Dry Shampoo that I use on a regular basis.  One is the powder form that you pour into your hand and work into your hair and this one works best when my hair is really dirty.  The other one comes in a spray form like this Dry Shampoo by label.m.  This form of Dry Shampoo is perfect for everyday use and for those days right after you wash your hair or when you hair needs a bit more lift and texture.

Just a few sprays of this Dry Shampoo is all I need to add more weightless volume and texture to my limp, flat hair.  I will even use this instead of actual Hair Spray.  It does the same thing as Hair Spray without leaving hair stiff and crunchy and helps me create a fun style almost effortlessly!

This Dry Shampoo by label.m is a Must Have and retails for $15.50 for 6.8oz.

This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount or complimentary 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!

Pure Salmon Oil by Purity Pupplements

*Pure Salmon Oil by Purity Pupplements

Salmon Oil is always something I keep on hand to add to our cat's and to our dog's food on a regular basis.  I don't use it everyday and I don't put it in every meal but I try to add into at least half of their meals throughout the week.

This Pure Salmon Oil by Purity Pupplements is an excellent quality Salmon Oil that all of our furbabies love the taste of!  They would all gladly lick it straight off a spoon if I let them...sometimes I do!  However, I usually mix it in with a can of wet food along with several other vitamins and supplements and the Salmon Oil helps cover up the scent of some of the other things that they don't really care for but that I want them to have.  I definitely notice a difference when they get their Salmon Oil several times a week like they should.  Their fur is always the first thing that I notice because it's softer and way more shiny and of course their skin is the other thing.  The Salmon Oil helps keep their skin hydrated and since our Pit Bull, Karley has some allergy issues the Salmon Oil makes the biggest difference for her.  Salmon Oil is a "Must Have" at our house!

I always look for a good quality Salmon Oil like this one that's pure and free from heavy metals, toxins and other impurities that may by harmful to my precious furbabies.  Only the best will do!

I highly recommend supplementing your furkids diet with some Pure Salmon Oil by Purity Pupplements, especially if they have any sort of skin or allergy issues.  It definitely helps relieve the symptoms of dry and itchy skin which in the end, makes us all happy!

You can find Pure Salmon Oil by Purity Pupplements over on Amazon.com and it retails for $16.49 for 8.7oz. or $22.49 for 17oz...

           

This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount or complimentary 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!

Thickening Cream by label. m

*Thickening Cream by label. m

One of my best friends owns a hair salon and carries the label. m line.  So naturally I've used several of label.m products over the last couple of years and I love them.  Label. m is a great, innovative salon quality line of hair care products that are made with the hair loving fine botanicals and essential oils that not only help you get salon quality results at home but help keep hair healthy while doing it.  This Thickening Cream by label. m became a fast favorite and is an easy way to boost hair volume without weighing it down.  It actually helps to swell the hair which makes hair look fuller and more luminous.  It also acts as a heat protector to help prevent color fade and damage.  Perfection!  

This is one of those products that you could actually use to replace several products like your heat protector, leave in conditioner and other hair styling products like gel or mousse.  It works great as an all in one product!  Plus, it's really easy to use.  I just apply it while my hair is still damp and comb it through.  It does work best if you can blow dry it in sections but I usually just let my hair air dry and use the heat of my curling iron or flat iron to achieve the same results.

Great product!  I mean...if your into that fuller, healthy looking hair thing!

Head over to fashionandbeautystore.com for more information or to purchase the Thickening Cream by label. m!

This is not a sponsored post. I received this product at a discount or complimentary 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!