My Top 5 Beauty & Skincare Hacks

My Top 5 Beauty & Skincare Hacks

I use beauty & skincare hacks almost everyday so I thought I would share my Top 5 with you!

1. Oil Blotting Sheets - Since I have oily skin I am always using Oil Blotting Sheets and when I run out of my usual sheets and I'm desperate I will either go for *toilet seat covers or a coffee filter depending on where I am & what's available (*I usually take the first couple of seat protectors off & use on seat and then use the next one down for my face).
2. Don't Forget Your Shoulders - You always hear about including your neck and decollete when applying serums and moisturizers but I like to take it 1 step further and also include my shoulders. Your shoulders get just as much sun damage as your decollete and can also age you so make sure you don't forget them next time you are applying your serums & creams!
3. White Eye Liner - Not only can you use White Eye Liner in your waterline to make your eyes look more open and in the inner corner of your eye to brighten up your eyes but you can also use it on your entire eyelid to automatically intensify any eyeshadow color.  Same goes for your nails too, use a white nail polish underneath your color polish, this will help you achieve the true color of the polish.
4. Dry Shampoo - Did you run out of your favorite Dry Shampoo?  Go to your kitchen and grab some baking soda, sprinkle a little directly on your roots, work it in and viola! 
5. DIY Makeup Fixer - Don't you hate it when you drop your favorite makeup compact and it breaks into little pieces?  Now, instead of throwing it out you can salvage it!  You will need some alcohol (rubbing alcohol works fine but it you can find *70% alcohol it works even better. (you can usually find 70% alcohol at your art supply store), q-tip & plastic wrap.  Wrap you compact with the plastic wrap and break up the larger pieces of makeup until it's back to powder form.  Remove the plastic wrap and add a few drops of alcohol at a time until it is the consistency of a paste.  Now you just need to smooth it out (you can use a small spatula to do this) and let it dry for several hours or overnight.  Make sure it's completely dry before using it.

What are your favorite beauty & skincare hacks?

#MaskMonday-***New Series***

Rejuvenating Antioxidant Mask

Since I am such a mask addict and I am constantly trying new masks I am going to start a new series called #MaskMonday!  On Monday's I will either do a blog post or a post on my @GlamRiver Instagram account about a mask I have tried and let you know what I think about it.

This week it is the Rejuvenating Antioxidant Mask from eclos.  This mask is supposed to recover the appearance of soft, springy skin.  It contains antiioxidants, humectants, and powerful anti-aging extracts and it clinically proven to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture in 2 weeks.

I have to say I LOVE this mask.  My skin felt clean, soft, smooth and even seemed to look a little brighter.  All that after just one use so I would totally recommend this one!

You can find the eclos line at Target but you can also get it on-line at FreemanBeauty.com & Ulta.com. 

Must Have Monday-Lierac Micellar Cleansing Water

Lierac Micellar Cleansing Water

I have been wanting to try out the Lierac Micellar Cleansing Water for awhile now.  It has received great reviews among other bloggers and I have never tried a Cleansing Water before so I decided I just had to have it!  I've saved up enough Birchbox points to basically get it for free so I went ahead and ordered it and I can't wait to try it out for myself!

The Lierac Micellar Cleansing Water is alcohol-free, no-rinse cleansing water that helps to easily remove makeup, dirt, and other impurities for a fresh, soft complexion.  You can either use the cleansing water by itself to remove makeup & clean your face or you can use it just as a make-up remover and follow it up with your regular skincare routine.

If you are not familiar with Birchbox it's a monthly beauty box subscription for only $10.00 where you get a variety of 5 beauty/skincare samples and sometimes even full size items.  After you have tried & tested the products you can do a review on them and earn 10 Birchbox points per reviewed item.  You can also earn 1 reward point for every dollar spent in their on-line store.  One you accumulate 100 Birchbox points they will give you $10.00 to spend in their on-line store.  The points add up pretty fast and it's a great way to purchase the full-size version of the products you tried and loved.

Click here if you would like to join Birchbox and receive a box full of goodies for yourself each month!

Dr Song Professional Teeth Whitening Kit-Review

*Dr Song Professional Teeth Whitening Kit

I have used Teeth Whitening products from my dentist and while they have worked they have also been quite expensive.  Dr. Song sent me not only their Professional Teeth Whitening Kit but their Dr Song Remineralization Gel to review as well and I have had great results with both products and for a fraction of the cost of products that you would get from your dentist. 

The Dr Song Remineralization Gel is recommended to use with teeth whitening products to desensitize teeth during treatment.  It helps reduce teeth sensitivity during teeth whitening, restore minerals, and even helps strengthen enamel.  I definitely noticed great results with the Remineralization Gel, my teeth have a lot less sensitivity.

I have used the Dr Song Professional Teeth Whitening after just 4 treatments I noticed that my teeth were already beginning to look a lot more white.  I plan on posting a before & after pics once I have completed the treatment process so be sure to stay tuned!  The Teeth Whitening Gel is pretty strong at 44% so it's important that it doesn't get on your gums or it will cause irritation.

Both kits come with everything you need to have teeth that are more white, a lot stronger and a lot less sensitive!

Go to DrSongMedical.com for more information on both the Dr Song Professional Teeth Whitening Kit and the Dr Song Remineralization Gel Kit.  You can also order both at 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.

Organic Raw Cacao Powder by Freedom Superfoods-Review

*Organic Raw Cacao Powder by Freedom Superfoods

Chocolate?  Yes, please!  Organic Chocolate?  Yes, please!

This Organic Raw Cacao Powder that Freedom Superfoods sent me to review is amazing and has an intense, fresh, cocao taste!  I use it just about every morning in my Chocolate Banana Smoothie...

Chocolate Banana Smoothie

2 cups Almond/Coconut Milk
2 tbsp. Organic Raw Cacao Powder by Freedom Superfoods
1 tbsp. Chia Seeds
1 tbsp. Flaxseed
1 or 2 Bananas (depending on size)
1 1/2  cups  Ice

You can also add 2 tbsp. of peanut butter, almond butter or I like to add sunflower butter!  YUMMY!

I also made a to-die-for chocolate frosting with the Organic Raw Cacao Powder by Freedom Superfoods.  Thank goodness it's an antioxidant rich superfood since the leftover frosting got eaten just as fast as the cake did!  I have almost gone through the entire bag between the smoothies & baking, guess it's time to order bag #2!

Go to FreedomSuperfoods.com for more information on the Organic Raw Cacao Powder and go to Amazon.com to order your own bag!  Also, when you order your Organic Raw Cacao Powder Freedom Superfoods will include a FREE Cacao Recipe ebook!

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.

Stretch Marks & Scars Defense Cream by Body Merry-Review

*Stretch Marks & Scars Defense Cream by Body Merry

Not only does this cream help visibly reduce the appearance of existing marks and scars & stretch marks but it makes your skin feel so amazingly soft and supple.  The Stretch Marks & Scars Defense Cream that Body Merry sent me to review is super thick and luxurious and made with premium natural and organic ingredients like Organic Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Vitamins E + C + B3 + B5, Sunflower Seed Oil, Plant Stem Cells, Organic Hemp Seed Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Organic Gotu Kala, Algae Extract and Japanese Green Tea Leaf Extract...just to name a few.  This cream will heal, hydrate and nourish even the driest and most damaged skin and it seeps deep into your skin and will stay locked in.  Plus, with regular use this amazing cream will also effectively prevent the formation of marks and scars & stretch marks.

One of the many reasons why I love Body Merry is that they do not use any harsh chemicals, their products are made in the USA and of course nothing is tested on animals!
For more information on Body Merry products go to BodyMerry.com and you can go to Amazon.com to purchase the Stretch Marks & Scars Defense Cream by Body Merry.

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% Pure Organic Argan Oil by Foxbrim-Review

*100% Pure Organic Argan Oil by Foxbrim

Argan Oil is not called "liquid gold" just because of the soft golden color of the oil, it's also because this all natural oil has so many hair & skincare benefits.  This Argan Oil that Foxbrim sent me to test out for them is a really great choice if you are in the market for an Argan Oil!  

One of my favorite uses for Agan Oil is using it as a hair treatment on the ends of my hair right after I get out of the shower, it tames my frizzies and leaves my hair feeling soft & silky.  Even though I have very oily skin I also like to use it on my face at night and in the morning I wake up with glowing, hydrated skin.  Since it has anti-inflammatory properties in the oil it also helps heal any skin issues, like blemishes and helps reduce any redness.  It also makes a perfect after shower/bath moisturizer.  I apply it all over my body while my skin is still a little damp and it just soaks into my skin and all I am left with is super soft, supple skin!

  

There are a lot of Argan Oil's out there right now and I have tried several of them, all at varied price ranges and this one from Foxbrim makes a great choice not only because it's made with Certified Organic Argan Oil, NO additives parabens, silicones fillers or fragrances but because at $14.95 for 2 ounces it's also at a really great price!

Go to Foxbrim.com for more information on their 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil and some of their other great products.  You can also purchase it directly from 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.

Revitalize Eye Serum With Sea Kelp by Petunia Skincare-Review.

*Revitalize Eye Serum With Sea Kelp by Petunia Skincare

I have to tell you that I am kind of obsessed with eye creams.  I am constantly trying out new ones all the time but that means I have a really good idea of what works and what doesn't.  I also have a few favorites and one that has made it to my favorites list is the Revitalize Eye Serum that Petunia Skincare sent me to review for my blog. (Also, check out this blog post I did for the MUST HAVE skincare tool that I use everyday that is also from Petunia Skincare)  

The consistency of the serum if fairly thick so a little goes a long way and once applied to the skin the serum just melts in and is easily absorbed.  The Revitalize Eye Serum leaves your skin feeling refreshed, hydrated, helps get rid of those nasty dark circles and it also really helps get rid of any puffiness you might have. (Tip: put in the refrigerator for an even more refreshed feeling that helps you feel more awake!) 

The Revitalize Eye Serum by Petunia Skincare is infused with powerful and proven antioxidants, such as Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone, Alpha Bisabolol, Vitamin C + B3 and Caffeine, specifically targeted to reduce dark circles under the eyes and treat puffy and swollen eyes.  It also has the following ingredients proven to hydrate, repair and firm the skin: Sea Kelp, Sodium PCA, Vitamin C, Matrixyl 3000, Hyaluronic Acid, Pomegranate Extract and Ferulic Acid.

Another thing I love about Petunia Skincare is that they use the best, natural and organic ingredients and they are also 100% CRUELTY FREE!  They only use vegan, and cruelty-free formulations containing natural/organic active ingredients.  No parabens, no sulfates, no gluten, no alcohol, no phthalates, and absolutely no animal testing. Also, it's made in the good ol' USA!

Go to PetuniaSkincare.com for more information on the Revitalize Eye Serum and make sure you take a look at all of their other products while your there!

You can also purchase on Amazon.com and when you place your order they will also send you this (see pic below) FREE E-book too!

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.

Svelte PRO Organic Anti-Cellulite Treatment by Sweetsation-Review

*Svelte PRO Organic Anti-Cellulite Treatment by Sweetsation

I think it's pretty safe to say the no one likes cellulite!  Unfortunately, most of us have it but thankfully there are products like this one from Sweetsation that really do help diminish the appearance of it.

What is cellulite?  Cellulite is the result of an excess storage of fat in the deeper skin layers beneath the connective tissue.  As a result the skin gets uneven, loses elasticity and dimples occur. Inactive lifestyle, poor diet and lack of exercise intensifies the stagnancy of fat cells and makes the problem worse.  It is well-known that anti-cellulite massages combined with (yes, exercise) and topical treatments of the affected body areas - especially on thighs, buttocks, stomach - help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Thank goodness for Sweetsation and their Svelte PRO Organic Anti-Cellulite Treatment!  This stuff really does work, my cellulite (yes, I have some) has become far less noticeable.  Come summertime this is going to be a MUST HAVE product to have around and will be my secret weapon!
How does Svelte PRO Organic Anti-Cellulite Treatment work?  In plain simple language, they stop production of the enzyme that leads to fat storage in our body and so cause the dimples to shrink. Many ingredients have this effect including, Caffeine, Kola nut and Juniper.  Along side these are ingredients like, Butcher's Broom which helps dilate blood vessels increasing circulation in the area- Gingko Biloba which is said to firm the skin and Lemon and Fennel which helps detox the body and repair skin. L'Carnitine, the latest break through in cellulite battle - is found naturally in the skin and supports the conversion of fat into energy.

However, for best and quickest results it is still best to adopt sensible diet and regular exercise regime!
Go to SweetsationTherapy.com for more info on the Svelte PRO Organic Anti-Cellulite Treatment and take a look at all the other products they offer.  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.

Must Have Monday-Amanda Lacey Miracle Tonic

*Amanda Lacey Miracle Tonic

I found this little beauty while I was doing some research on some other products yesterday and as soon as I read some of the reviews I knew it had to be my pick for "Must Have Monday"!

You can read the entire product description for the Miracle Tonic from the website here but basically it's a little magic potion that helps to heal skin and instantly reduce redness and irritation.  It contains Antimicrobial Salycilic Acid that works to reduce pore size, clear congestion and brighten skin.  It also keeps excess oil at bay so the skin appears bright, clear and spot free.

Told you it was a magic little potion!  I would love to hear from anyone that has already tried this since it comes with a steep price tag at $84.00.  I would probably only use this when I have a breakout so I think the bottle would last awhile but still $84.00 is pretty crazy.  It doesn't look like it ships to the U.S. from the Amanda Lacey website but I did find it on Shen-Beauty.com and you can get free shipping on orders on $75 so this would qualify!

Do you think it sounds like it would be worth the $84.00?  I would love to hear your thoughts!

Taza BPA Free Stemless Wine Glasses-Review

*Taza BPA Free Stemless Wine Glasses

I know I have professed my love of cocktails on my blog before and for me "cocktails" also includes wine!  I love my wine.  I know it always sounds like I drink A LOT but I really don't, I promise!  I just really appreciate a good cocktail and a nice glass of wine.  

So, you can probably understand why I was really excited when I received these super cool Stemless Wine Glasses from Taza.  First of all, I have been wanting to purchase some stemless glasses for awhile now so the timing was perfect.  I don't know how many wine glasses have been broken in my household over the years but it's too many to count.  Unfortunately, most of them were the really expensive, platinum rimmed wine glasses that we received as wedding gifts over 20 years ago :(

That is why I LOVE that these Stemless Wine Glasses from Taza are made with 100% Tritan shatterproof,  BPA Free plastic.  These glasses are great quality and even though I have ran them through my dishwasher a few times now and they still look great.

I also can't wait to use these this summer for camping, they would be perfect for that.  Now I can sit around the campfire with some class drinking out of these cute glasses.  Which brings me to my next idea...these would make a great gift, especially for girlfriends!

For more info on the Taza Stemless Wine Glasses go to Taza.co and you can also get more info and purchase the glasses 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.

Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish-Review

Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish

As a self-described skincare addict I am not sure what I love more, doing a mask or exfoliating.  I also love to try new products which is the entire reason I started a blog to begin with.
  Like I said, I love to exfoliate and I have tried A LOT of exfoliators (I am currently working on a blog post to share which ones really work so stay tuned) so I consider myself somewhat of an expert and I know what works and what doesn't.
I have had the opportunity to review some of the Exuviance products before and loved them so I was super excited when I won their Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish in a little FB contest that they had!  Yay for me!  I am happy to report that the  Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish is getting a 2 thumbs up from me!  This is seriously great stuff (and it should be with a hefty price tag of $72, ouch!).
The Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish contains professional grade crystals to help give you smooth skin.  It also contains Glycolic Acid and Papaya Enzyme which help dissolve impurities, loosen dead skin cells.  The ingredients help polish the skin and leaves you with smooth, silky softness and your complexion look brighter and it evens helps reduce the appearance of your pores and dark spots.

So, if your looking for a microdermabrasion product that works then I can definitely recommend the  Exuviance Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish!

***Purchase through your Ebates account or if you don't have one sign up for one here and get 7.5% Cash Back***

Matcha De Mark Green Tea Powder-Review

*Matcha De Mark Green Tea Powder

I have long been a fan of Matcha Green Tea and have even written a few other blog posts about it.  My favorite way to enjoy Matcha Green Tea is by putting it in my morning smoothie.  Lately, I have been loving this 100% USDA Organic Green Tea Powder that Matcha De Mark sent me to review.  Not only have I been adding it to my morning smoothie but I have also been enjoying a cup a Matcha De Mark Green Tea in the afternoon for that perfect little pick-me-up!

I love that this Matcha Green Tea comes in a powder form so you can decide how much or little you want to add to whatever your making.  Matcha Green Tea has so many health benefits but my favorite, and the main reason why I drink it, is that it helps to naturally increase your metabolism which can help burn fat!

Go to MatchaDeMark.com for more information on the Green Tea Powder and you can also purchase it on Amazon.com and right now they are also including a 100 recipe eBook broken into 2 sections. 50 weight loss or low calorie recipes and 50 rich decadent recipes with no concern for calorie counts!

Use Coupon Code MATCHA07 for an extra 10% off.

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.

Vitamin C Serum & Eye Cream by Sano Naturals-Review

*Vitamin C Serum by Sano Naturals

I have been talking about the benefits of Vitamin C Serum on my blog for months now.  Have you added it to your skincare routine yet?  It's definitely a Must Have anti-aging product!

The most recent Vitamin C Serum that I have been loving is this one that Sano Naturals sent me and they also included a Vitamin C Eye Cream as well.  The Vitamin C Serum is all natural and easily absorbed so it's perfect to wear under makeup.  Some of the benefits you will see from using the serum are the reduced look of wrinkles and fine lines and also helps reduce the appearance of large pores, helps lighten melasma, hyperpigmentation and it will even help smooth rough complexions and dry skin.  The Vitamin C Eye Cream also helps with fine lines & wrinkles and will lessen the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.

A great thing about Sano Naturals is that they offer a no questions asked Money Back Guarantee!  So, you really have nothing to lose...except for some wrinkles and dark spots!

Go to SanoNaturals.com for more information on their Vitamin C Serum & Eye Cream and you can also purchase on Amazon.com.  Also, make sure you check out my Sano Naturals blog post on their Phytoceramides!

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.

Retinol Surge Moisturizer by Body Merry-Review.

*Retinol Surge Moisturizer

Retinol (also known as a type of Vitamin A) is another product that I think everyone should have in their skincare routine, right along Vitamin C Serum.  Retinol is an important part to any skincare routine because it can unclog pores, boost collagen to help reduce fine lines & wrinkles and it also helps speed up cell turnover to even out discoloration and smooth the skin.

I have been having great results with this Retinol Surge Moisturizer that Body Merry sent me to review for them.  It not only leaves my skin feeling well moisturized it also leaves it feeling soft and smooth.  It's a lightweight moisturizer that can easily be worn under makeup.  I have been using it on my face, neck, decollete and my latest little beauty tip is that I have also been using my anti-aging creams & serums on my shoulders.  I have a lot of "freckles' on my shoulders, which at my age (41), I guess they could be called "age spots" (two evil little words, lol) and adding my shoulders to my skincare routine, I think, will help keep me looking younger!

I love working with a Body Merry because their products are made here in the USA, they are cruelty free and they do not use any harsh chemicals like Parabens,Sulphates or Phthalates.

Also, Body Merry's products are backed with a 90 Day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If you don't like this moisturizer, just contact them and get a full refund. You don't even need to return the bottle.

Go to bodymerry.com to check out some of their other products and you can also purchase the Retinol Surge Moisturizer 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.

Origins by Luxurience-Review

*Origins by Luxurience

There are so many anti-aging moisturizers on the market right now and sometimes it's hard to know which one to pick.  When picking out a moisturizer for myself I always look for one that's a multitasker.  I want a moisturizer that will not only leave my skin feeling hydrated but one that will also combat wrinkles.  The Origins moisturizer that Luxurience sent me is great example of a multitasking moisturizer!  It leaves my skin feeling really hydrated and the patented peptide formula lets me know that it's keeping away those darn wrinkles!  A little goes a long way, it's lightweight and easily absorbed.

Go to Amazon.com for more information and to get your own bottle of Origins by Luxurience!

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.

**Shop the e.l.f. Cosmetics SALE for great gift ideas**

Need a few gifts for all those special girls in your life?  How about some new makeup?  Make sure you take advantage of all the great sales going on right now at e.l.f. Cosmetics and get something for every girl on your list!  Also, keep checking back because they have more great deals coming up!  Don't forget to shop through Ebates and get an additional 4.5% cash back!

Receive an 11 piece Brush Set for $3 with any $30 Purchase, Plus get a $10 Gift Card! Enter code BRUSHES at checkout. Offer valid 12/4 - 12/7/14.

Save 66%! Get 251 Pieces - Regularly $95 for only $33. No code necessary. Offer valid 12/3 - 12/7/14.

Earthen Beauty Bright Eyes Under Eye Gel-Review

*Earthen Beauty Bright Eyes Under Eye Gel

Eye creams/gels are probably one of my favorite skin care products and right now I am loving the Bright Eyes Under Eye Gel that Earthen Beauty sent me to review.
This eye gel is not only a great under eye moisturizer it also helps diminish my dark circles, reduce all my puffiness leftover from not getting enough sleep, helps firm the sagging skin around my eyes and of course it also combats my fine lines.  The gel itself is really lightweight and is easily absorbed which makes it prefect to wear under makeup.  I love keeping it in the fridge and using it on those mornings when it's really obvious I didn't get enough sleep.  The cool gel instantly wakes me up and leaves me feeling refreshed!

The Earthen Beauty Bright Eyes Under Eye Gel is full of wrinkle-erasing, skin-nourishing ingredients & the ingredients are 99% NATURAL AND 75% ORGANIC. 

Go to earthenbeauty.com for more information and to purchase Earthen Beauty Bright Eyes Under Eye Gel go to 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.