Ultra Plumping Hydration Mask by Valentia #ValentiaUltraPlumpingHydrationMask

I have been using this product from Valentia for about 2 weeks now.  I was given the opportunity to try it for my honest review and opinion.  No compensation was received in exchange for my review.

This is the first Valentia product that I am not absolutely blown away by.  Maybe I am expecting too much...

First of all, my skin is very dry.  This is called Ultra Plumping Hydration Mask -- so I was assuming this would add lots of moisture to my skin.  However, it feels dry after I have used it and not moisturized at all.

Maybe I am wrong in thinking -- "Hydration" would be "moisturizing".

Directions say to add to face avoiding the eye area.  Leave on for 15-30 minutes.  It states a slight tingling sensation is normal.  Use a damp cloth and warm water to remove.

I personally had no tingling sensation at all when I used it and I have very sensitive skin.  I guess I expect more results out of a product that I put 15-30 minutes into.  I was not impressed with this one and that is a first with Valentia.  I have tried 3 other products from Valentia and love them and gave them all 5 stars.

I saw no results from this one and my face actually felt dry after I removed it.  So, for me I felt like I wasted 30 minutes of my time each time I used it - LOL!!

Cons -- To me this felt like it left my very dry skin even drier after using it.  Since my face is very dry to begin with it was almost an uncomfortable dry once I rinsed it off and I had to follow up with an extensive moisturizing routing each time I tried this.

Not saying everyone would have this same experience, but for me this product does not work and I cannot recommend to anyone who has dry skin.

This product states it was made in the USA and is cruelty free.

There is no ingredient list on the label, but after some research I did find where they had posted in response to a question on Amazon.

Ingredients

Deionized Aqua (Water), Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera), Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Algae Extract, Camellia Oleifera (Japanese Green Tea) Leaf Extract, HippophaeRhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn Oil), Organic Rosa Canina (Rosehip Seed Oil), Ubiquinone (CoQ10), Organic SimmondsiaChinensis (Jojoba Oil), Acai Berry Fragrance, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Carrageenan Gum, Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide (botanical hyaluronic acid), Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Proprietary Silk Protein Amino Acid Blend, Organic Avena Sativa (Oat), Frankincense Essential Oil (active, not for smell), Opacifier, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Organic CentellaAsiatica (Gotu Kola), Wildcrafted Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail), WildcraftedTaraxacumOfficinale (Dandelion), Wildcrafted Geranium Maculatum (Wild Geranium), Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin

Thanks for reading! 


 

Valentia Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum #valentia

I was super excited to get to try out another product from Valentia.  I have tried a few of their items in the past and loved them.  This one was no different. 

It comes in an amber colored glass bottle with a pump lid.

I used 3-4 pumps on my face and down my throat on a freshly cleansed face.  The bottle states to use 1-2 pumps, but my face is very dry and this just soaked it right up.

Valentia boasts -  A potent and luxurious lactic acid serum that supports natural circulation for an  all over youthful and refreshed complexion.This Revitalizing Serum Will:
- Renew texture & tone
- Deeply moisturize
- Minimize fine lines
- Increase elasticity
- Brighten & Plumbs Fine Lines
- Evens Hyperpigmentation

I personally did not notice any visible results, but I did notice a moisturizing which my face is in desperate need of.

I experienced no negative reactions from this product and I loved the way it felt and smelled.

Ingredients include -

- Wakame Bioferment (Seaweed), Gotu Kola, Lactic Acid,  Licorice, Argan Oil.

Price is on the high side for the 1.18 size bottle, but it isn't cheap to get a product that is healthy and good for your skin.

I was given a discount on this product to try.  The company wanted my unbiased opinion and review.  So far I have loved the Valentia product line and would definitely recommend them.  Especially for anyone that is wanting to be a little more careful about the ingredients they are allowing their skin to soak up.

None of the links in this blog post are referral links -- I do not get any compensation for this review.  Thanks for reading.

Check them out for yourself here!!

Azure Naturals - Sweet Orange Vitamin C Product Line #AzureNaturals

Hope you guys had a beautiful Saturday!!  Mine was super busy!!!

I actually have 4 products that I am going to share with you today.  Three of which I absolutely LOVE!!  The fourth is very nice all except I do not care for the smell.  But we will get to that!

I was given the opportunity to try these 4 products from Azure Natural and tell them what I think.  They want honest unbiased opinions which is the only thing I believe in doing because I rely on reviews myself and feel it is important to cover all aspects -- including if it is just a smell that I dislike.

This skin care system is a 4 part process

You start with the

Ultimate Vitamin C Sweet Orange Organic Facial Cleanser.  It is a 4 oz pump bottle.  The bottle states that it is 15% Vitamin C & MSM Organic Aloe & Rosehip.  I used about 3 pumps to cleanse my face.  It said to avoid the eyes, but I used it is the shower and got it probably pretty close and I was ok -- not recommending that -- just saying.

 I really liked this cleanser.  I have tried a lot of cleansers in the past that left my face very dry.  This did not.  I don't know if it was due to the ingredients

or the fact that I followed up with the other 3 products afterwards.  I had no negative reactions or breakouts from this cleanser at all and I would definitely re-purchase and recommend.




The second step

Ultimate Vitamin C Sweet Orange Organic Facial Toner 

This comes in a 4 oz. pump spray bottle.  This is the one that I am unsure of still.  I have been using it for 2 weeks and I do want to say I have had no negative reactions from it.  I would spritz it on my cleansed, dry face.  Let it dry before applying the next step.  The issue I had with this one was the smell.  I cannot place it.  It smelled like it had a little citronella in it which I am highly allergic too.  Just to verify if anyone else is allergic to citronella -- I quickly read the ingredients label (well maybe not quickly since it is really small and I am getting up there in age and cannot read the tiny print like I used to -- there is no citronella in this)

 I did not have the same reaction with this as I do with citronella - it just made me stop and pause and I guess panic a little.  That probably will make absolutely no sense to someone who don't have allergies, but anyone that does and has a reaction to something will know what I am talking about.  I had a moment of panic.  I think it might be the sweet orange that I am smelling -- not sure.  I had no issues with smells on the other 3 products in this sweet orange line -- just the toner.   Anyway -- as far as continuing to use this -- I did.  I had no negative reactions except the smell and it does not last.  The toner gives a tightening effect to your skin -- you can feel it working as it dries.  It is nice -- just wish it had a different scent -- but hey that is just me.  Will I purchase again??  Not sure -- the verdict is still out on that.  I like using it with the other items just not sure if it is worth the smell and my temporary panic -- yes I do it everytime I use it -- I know crazy right?!  I don't want someone to think it smells bad.....  It just reminds me of something I am highly allergic to.  As for the way it makes my skin feel -- definitely recommend!


The third step -

Ultimate Vitamin C Skin Repair Serum

I really really like this.  It especially feels good on the skin after the tightening effect of the toner.  I probably use more of this than I would actually need, but it feel really good and soothing.  I use about 4 pumps on my entire face and down my neck.  I applied it after the toner was totally dry.  This serum I would definitely re-purchase and highly recommend.  It has some great ingredients in it.

The fourth and final step

 Ultimate Vitamin C Sweet Orange Infused Organic Moisturizer

 This is another step I absolutely love.  I use about 4 pumps of this as well.  Makes my skin feel very soft and moisturized.  Again, loved the ingredients

I would also definitely recommend this one as well!!  Overall I am very positive about this whole line.  As you can tell if you made it this far that even with the issues of the smell of the toner I continued to use it.

I got mine from Amazon discounted in exchange for my honest review, but the price on this line when you consider the ingredients I don't think are too bad!!! 

I did notice there are some coupon codes on Amazon so be sure and check them out if you decide to try it yourself

---

Special Offers and Product Promotions

• Buy 1 Vitamin C Cleanser and Receive 20% Off Vitamin C Toner Here's how (restrictions apply)
• 20% off your entire order when you purchase 3 or more Azure Naturals products! Build your own gift set! Enter code AZUREB20 at checkout. Here's how (restrictions apply)
• 25% off your entire order when you purchase 5 or more Azure Naturals products! Build your own gift set! Enter code AZUREB25 at checkout. Here's how (restrictions apply)

First Botany Cinnamon Oil Essential Oil #FBCinnamon

I had the opportunity recently to purchase this at a discounted rate so that I could try it out -- review it and give my unbiased and honest opinion.

First of all I have been using essential oils for over 30 years.  I love them and use them on a daily basis, but I in no way consider myself an expert. 

Everything I mention here is just my personal opinion.

I really like using cinnamon oil for a breath freshener.  It is a "non sugary" way to freshen up the breath.

Ok, with this one it is a bit different than any I have ever tried.  I think my daughter described it best when she said it has a perfumy cinnamon taste.

She is right.  Sometimes when you walk into a room that someone has just sprayed fresh cologne or perfume in and get some in your mouth -- that is what the aftertaste to this oil tastes like.  It has a cinnamon flavor when you initially taste it -- it has a sweet cinnamon taste, but then it tastes kind of like you got perfume.  Not overbearing, but it is there.  I am not sure what is causing it and I have never had another cinnamon oil do that, so I did want to mention that.  It also leaves my tongue a bit numb.

If it were not for the "aftertaste" I would really like the flavor of this -- the aftertaste just throws me.

It does not smell as strong as some of the cinnamon oils I am used to using either.  So unfortunately in this instance this would not be my go to oil when I want to replace my cinnamon oil.

It does come in a generous 4 oz amber colored glass bottle with an eye dropper which I do like.

Ingredients state that it is 100% Pure Therapeutic Cinnamon Leaf Oil with no additives or artificial ingredients added.

As with all of my reviews I am not paid -- these are just my honest opinions -- unfortunately in this instance -- this is not one of my favorite oils and I will not be repurchasing this one.

Thanks for reading!

First Botany Clove Oil Essential oil #fbclove

I was sent another essential oil to try so that I could give my unbiased honest opinion.  I was not paid for this review and all aspects of it are my own opinion.  I am not an expert, but I do use essential oils on a daily basis for cleaning, aromatherapy and over all well being.

I have always like to keep clove oil in the house because I use it when anyone here has a toothache.  It works wonders.  of course you do have to be careful to keep it off of your good teeth because it will eat the enamel off of them.  My husband has bad teeth though and anytime he feels a toothache coming on he grabs a Q-tip and applies it to the painful area and gets relief usually fairly quickly.

I also like to coat my pine cones with it just to freshen up the air or put it on the air filter where the AC/Heat intake is.  One of my favorites is to mix cinnamon and cloves and it smells like someone is baking!

This was a generous size 4 oz amber colored bottle with an eye dropper syringe.

According to the ingredients this is 100% pure Therapeutic Grade Clove Oil.

I have also read that clove oil is a great way to boost your immune system -- Another reason to diffuse it into the air.

I definitely recommend this oil.

Sili-Mitts Silicone Oven Mitts #lifequintessentials

Ok, I am bringing you something that I am really really loving!!

I absolutely love these oven mitts!!  They are quilted on the inside and come up pretty high on your arm insuring a burn free cooking experience.

I have literally thrown away all of my cloth oven mitts.  These silicone quilted type are the only ones that I will have in my kitchen!!

They are so easy to clean -- I pull the quilted section out -- toss them in the washer and dryer.  Not sure if that is what the manufacturer recommends, but that is what I do!!

These are made with a high-quality silicone outer shell (100% FDA Approved Silicone according to the manufacturer - Sili Mitts) and has a lifted pattern that allows for great grip.

Inside the mitt is a soft quilted lining made of 50% cotton and 50% polyester, offering you superior protection and comfort. Love Love Love this aspect on these mitts.  I have tried some other silicone ones without the quilting and they are a no go for me!!  I thought they were ok at the time, but the more I use the 2 types together -- I say go with the quilted ones.

Heat resistant up to 480 F/ 250 C and the silicone outer shell is completely waterproof; this means no more hot water burns or steam burns when doing your daily cooking ever again!

Extra long in length to cover your arms from far-reaching grease spatter or burns from the oven rack while cooking your family's favorite dishes!  YAY!!

Ok, I gave my washing directions above and then looked up the manufacturers which are -- Simple to wash with warm soapy water, dry, and put away or hang them up using the conveniently attached loop.  This is what I do between the big washings - which is to put them in the washing machine -- to keep the quilted lining clean as well.

I was sent these to try so that I could give my honest unbiased opinion of them.   Seriously if you do not own oven mitts like this you have got to try them!!

Check them out for yourself here -- no this is not a paid link and I get nothing for your clicks!

Roman chamomile Oil #FBRomaChamomile

Here is another essential that I had never had the opportunity to try before.  First Botany contacted me once again to try this oil in exchange for my unbiased opinion.

When I first put it on -- I wasn't sure what to think.  It has been on my hand for an hour and it is nice.

It has a spicy scent to it.  I like it once the initial strength of it has died down.

This is a generous 4 oz amber colored bottle.  It also comes with an eye dropper which is a big plus in my opinion for dispensing.

Roman Chamomile Essential Oil can help bring a sense of calm. Roman Chamomile is also a suggested oil for use during times of anger or irritability and has a therapeutic, calming effect on the skin, mind, and body. 

This is my first experience with chamomile and I have nothing to compare with but I would recommend to give it a try!!

First Botany Jasmine Essential Oil #FBjasmine

Today I am going to share with you another Essential Oil.

i was given the opportunity to try this oil which was sent to me by First Botany in exchange for my honest unbiased opinion and review.

I will start out by saying this oil was extremely strong and was not for me unfortunately.  I am allergic to it.  I put 1 drop on my hand and my throat almost immediately started burning.  So I went in to wash it off.  Normal bathroom soap would not take it off so I went to the kitchen and used my platinum Dawn.  I washed my hands 4 times with platinum Dawn before the smell dissipated.

All was not lost though.  I gave it to a friend who uses essential oils a lot and she likes it.  Here is a comment I received from her...

So, I have this little pinecone (real) that I put oils on in

my bathroom.  It seems to hold whatever scent I put

on there for awhile.  I did the tip of a dropper of the First Botany Jasmine

early this morning, and when I walk in the bathroom it is still

very, very powerful even now....about as good as a diffuser.

It definitely retains its scent!

 

I also put some on my wrists, and to me it smells like a pretty

normal jasmine essential oil. 

 

All in all, it seems to be true to its natural scent and anyone

who likes jasmine oil should like this oil.

 

So -- it was a good reminder for me that just because something is good for you -- people with allergies still need to proceed with caution and follow their bodies.

 

This came in a generous 4 oz amber colored bottle with an eye dropper which I really like the companies that use that method for dispensing and as it makes it much easier to portion control.

 

Jasmine oil has been known to be associated with skin care.  Jasmine oil is known to help fade blemishes, scars, stretch marks and skin wounds - which makes me really sad that I am unable to use it.

KING OF OILS: Jasmine essential oil, or technically Jasmine Absolute (Jasminum officinale) is often referred as "King of oils". Historically, Jasmine has been treasured for both its aromatic properties and uses.

 

If you are a user of Jasmine or have no known allergies I would definitely recommend you to give this a try.  If you have prior allergies I would proceed with caution due to the strength of this oil.

100% Pure Peppermint Oil by The Essentials Co. #theessentialsco

I was given the opportunity recently to try this essential oil and asked that I give my unbiased opinion and review on the oil.

First of all let me say -- I love essential oils.  They have been a part of my daily life for the past 30 years now.  I am no expert by any means, but I use them a lot.

This one came in a nice 4 oz size.  Amber colored glass bottle with an eye dropper.

I like the fact that the essential oil companies are starting to add the droppers -- makes them much easier to distribute.

This is 100% therapeutic grade according to the bottle.  It has a very nice strong smell.  No fillers, no additives -- just 100% steam distilled oil.

if you are not familiar with essential oils here are some of the popular uses for peppermint oil

• effective migraine relief -- which is what we use it for as well as sinus pressure for allergy sufferers
• stress relief
• respiratory health
• fever relief
• anxiety relief
• asthma relief
• arthritis relief
• nausea relief
• IBS relief

Household uses include:
• natural disinfectant
• insect repellent
• rodent repellent
• air freshener

Peppermint oil is an incredibly potent essential oil. The oil is only to be used externally. Unless peppermint oil is being used for aromatherapy, it should always be diluted with a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil.

I really like this oil and would definitely recommend it!!

I received no $$ compensation for my unbiased review.

Check it out for yourself here!!

Valentia True Glow Eye Cream #ValentiaTrueEyeGlowCream

Another great item I got a chance to try out in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion and review.

This is the second item I have tried from this company and I have liked them both really well.  My wrinkles are still there, but this offers a great moisturizing aspect with no burning or irritation to my eyes.

I used it on my freshly cleansed face in the morning.  I probably should apply in the evening as well, but have not done that at this point.

Directions for using Valentia True Glow Eye Cream:

Apply twice daily, morning and night, after cleansing skin. The under eye area is delicate so eye cream should be applied gently.  I just tapped it on my eye area and let it soak in on its own.

Using your ring finger, gently dab eye cream in using a patting motion going around the orbital bone and
working inwards toward the bridge of your nose.

It is not sticky and soaks into my dry skin right away.  I also used the extra to rub between my frown lines in my brow -- that desperately needs help as I tend to squint a lot in the sun!!

It also has a very pleasant scent and color.  It looks like an orange serbert color.

I didn't notice anything with my dark circles, but I did notice it did seem to help my puffy eyes a couple of mornings when I woke up looking like I had been socked in the eyes after a deep clean day.

I love the ingredients in this -- so definitely give this a thumbs up and recommend everyone to give it a try!!

Here is a little bit of information from the company

Valentia True Glow Eye Cream - An illuminating antioxidant rich eye cream that tightens skin and locks in moisture, depuffing the eye area to repair skin as well as adding natural protection.  The result is a youthful and energetic glow around the eye area. 

This Corrective Eye Treatment Will:
- Diminish fine lines & wrinkles
- Nourish & hydrate
- Tighten the under eye area
- Brighten dark circles
- Reduce puffiness

Specially selected ingredients work together to achieve optimum results.- 

ASTAXANTHIN: A powerful antioxidant that increases moisture levels, smooths fine line and wrinkles, and restores elasticity to the skin.

- RESISTEM: Natural Plant Stem Cells repair and protect the skin from harsh environmental pollutants and stress related aging.

- VITAMIN C: Leaves the skin smooth and visibly brighter for a well-rested and bright eyed look.

- ORGANIC ROSEHIP OIL: Provides intense hydration to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

- ARNICA: A key anti-inflammatory agent to the restorative process that works to diminish the appearance of dark circles.

Check it out for yourself here!!