The Grip Trio Collection by Kenra Professional For All Day Hold & Style Without The Crunch!

*The Grip Trio Collection by Kenra Professional

If it's one thing that annoys the heck out of me it's hair that feels like it has a ton of product in it.  You know what I'm talking about.  It's like on those days when you think it's a good idea to use a leave-in conditioner, mousse, styling gel and hairspray.  It sound good in theory but all you end up with is heavy, crunchy hair!  Ugh!
This is where The new Grip Trio Collection from Kenra Professional come in!  I have seriously been loving all of these products.  They are lightweight, provide texture and volume AND they hold all day!
The Whip Grip Mousse retails for $17.00 for 8oz at Ulta.
The Whip Grip Mousse is lightweight and airy, creates a ton of volume all without making hair feel crunchy or stiff.
The Air Grip Spray retails for $17.00 for 8oz at Ulta.
The Air Grip Spray is lightweight, provides 50% more grip to hair and provides excellent definition and volume.
  The High Grip Spray retails for $19 for 8oz at Ulta.
The High Grip Spray provides 24 hour hold that's lightweight while maintaining style and definition.

To create my all day, flexible style all I need is a little dollop of the Whip Grip Mousse worked into my damp hair.  Next, I will let it air dry, but before it dries completely I use my blow dryer on low heat to finish drying the roots and voilà!  I have the volume that I need to create the perfect hairstyle.  Once I've added some curls with my flatiron or curling iron I use the Air Grip Spray to add some texture and definition and sometimes I just stop there.  However, if I really need my style to last I will use the High Grip Spray.  By using the High Grip Spray I know my hair isn't going anywhere but it will still have flexibility, which is absolutely amazing.

The Grip Trio Collection was created in collaboration with Steph Brinkerhoff @hairandmakeupbysteph who is a social media star and professional up-styling educator.  The bridal hairstyles she creates and is famous for are nothing short of awe inspiring.  Knowing Steph creates amazing bridal hairstyles it's easy to see why she wanted to use products that give lightweight volume and texture and that also provide all day hold.  This The Grip Trio Collection does all that and more! Well done Kenra and Steph, well done!

If you have a wedding coming up, whether your the bride, bridesmaid or even just a guest these are definitely the products you want to create a soft, flexible, beautiful all day style!  You can find these and other Kenra Professional products at Ulta and Ulta.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!

Instant Peel Exfoliant by Earthen Skincare

*Instant Peel Exfoliant by Earthen Skincare

I love a good peel.  I usually go for an acid peel but this particular peel uses proteins and enzymes to gently slough away dead skin cells.  I will admit that I was a bit skeptical but thankfully I was pleasantly surprised at how well this Peel worked!  The only negative I can say about this product is that it's kinda messy.  As long as you go into it knowing that things might get a bit messy then you should be good to go!

To use this special peel Earthen Skincare recommends that you steam your face for about 5 minutes before application to prepare the skin for ample exfoliation.  As a shortcut, I found it works the same if you just do it while your taking a shower, plus it's easier to clean up!

The actual product comes in convenient, individual packets which makes this peel a great one to travel with as well.  The peel solution itself reminds me a bit watered down paint.  You can either pour the product out into your hand and then massage into your face, neck and decollete all at once or you can do a little at a time and do it in sections.  I've tried both methods but I found it's less messy if you do it in sections.  Once the product is applied you simply massage it into the skin and as it dries it will begin to roll taking with it dead skin and debris.  When you feel like there is no more product left on the skin you can rise with warm water to reveal amazingly revitalized skin!  I was impressed how much more clear, vibrant and glowy my skin looked after just one use!  I'm a sucker for masks and peels and this one definitely made it onto my new favorites list!  

 I would recommend this for all skin types.  However, if you have super sensitive skin it would be a good idea to do a test patch first.

This Instant Peel Exfoliant by Earthen Skincare retails for $50.00 for 6 single use packets.  However, you can also find it on Amazon.com for $45.00 with your Prime Membership!

   

 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!

Best BCAA by Natrogix

*Best BCAA by Natrogix

If you like to work out and and you want to get the most out of it then you should be using a BCAA supplement. There are actually many reasons why I think you should be taking a Branched Chain Amino Acids supplement.  First of all BCAA's are vital for helping to improve exercise performance and reducing muscle breakdown.  However, did you know that BCAA's are also often used to treat a variety of diseases?  Primarily, Lou Gehrig's disease, but they are also used to treat certain brain conditions due to liver disease, cancer patients, people who are confined to bed rest and also the elderly.  Plus, it also helps with muscle soreness post work out!

This Best BCAA by Natrogix contains 3 grams of Creatine which will help with muscle growth and endurance.  It also contains other potent ingredients like L Leucine, L Glutamine, L Isoleucine and L Valine.  This combination works synergistically to help you get the most out of your workouts!  As an added bonus it tastes pretty amazing too, kind of fruity but leaning more towards a peach flavor.  In fact, I was thinking about making some BCAA popsicle's out of it!

You can find this Best BCAA by Natrogix 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!

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!