How Hard Water Can Affect Your Child’s Skin?

People often don’t realize the impact of water on their skin. The experience you have after bathing depends a lot upon the kind of water your tank consists of. Your tank could either consist of hard water or soft water. If you feel like when you come out of the shower, your skin feels itchy and irritated than it could be a sign that your water maybe hard. Now the skin of adults is more hardy and resistant to different kinds of water, however, you should carefully consider the kind of water you bathe your adolescent with.

What hard water does to your skin is that it leaves it scummy since hard water doesn’t easily form leather with soap. This could also lead to clogged pores which in turn cause pimples and acne. But that’s not all, people who use hard water find that their skin is usually itchy and dry and they use lotions and creams to moisturize their skin. This also leads to eczema.

While, studies have shown that water which consists of minerals that makes it hard isn’t necessarily bad for your health, there are a few evidences which show that hard water could lead to eczema in little children.

The study was conducted by researchers who made a connection between hard water and eczema. They determined that children who were exposed to hard water had an 87% higher chance of developing this condition.

How to deal with hard water

Places where ground water is used are usually more likely to get hard water because the water passes through stones and rocks and it picks up minerals like calcium. There are regions where there is high tendency of hard water as opposed to other regions.

There are a few tips and tricks through which you can combat this problem. So for example if you are bathing your infant then you can use a soap which produces leather and is made specifically for hard water in order to prevent eczema. For laundry and doing the dishes you can use detergents and liquids which are formulated to be used with hard water.

You can also install a water softener system in your home if you are really concerned about your child’s health. The initial years of a child’s development are always crucial so feel free to look for water softener options and install the one which seems to work for you. We found some great choices online at Ukh2o.

One of the best reasons why it is important to have clean water apart from saving your infant from eczema is that it is generally better to clean with soft water. You will be able to clean up your dishes and clothes with way less detergent and soap. And soft water is better for your skin as well. With hard water you end up using a lot of soap which actually isn’t good for your skin and ends up making the problem bigger than it is.

Making your water soft is not a solution for any kind of skin disease or chronic condition. But, it is definitely a wise step in order to avoid irritation and dryness of skin and getting rid of certain health problems.

There have been a large number of researches determining the effect of hard water on skin and how it causes conditions like eczema. Hard water is something that researchers claim affects 20% of kids 11 and under, as well as 8% of teenagers and adults.

How to figure out whether your tap consists of hard water

Water residue around the sink and soap scum is one of the signs of hard water. If you wash your dishes and you seem to think that they can never get clean enough than that may be a sign of hard water. Apart from that if you always seem to need more soap whether you are bathing, doing the dishes or washing clothes then that is also one of the signs.

If you can’t figure out for yourself whether your tap consists of hard water or not then you can take this inquiry to your water utility company and they should be able to tell you whether that’s the truth or not.

Keep Your Lips Soft This Winter With Carmex (Giveaway)

Unless you live in South Florida, you probably have been feeling a bit of a chill in the air. One of the first things I notice when those winter temperatures hit is my lips get extremely dry and irritated. Thankfully I have my old standby, Carmex lip balm. Carmex has been a household name brand we have known since my oldest was born, and is trusted by my whole family. It is not unusual to find a tube or jar stashed all over our home and in bags, desks, and cars. My personal favorite is the good old fashioned Original Carmex in the tube. I keep one tube in my makeup case, one in my purse, and one on my kitchen counter. You might say that I have an addiction!

I really love Carmex products because they are very effective and affordable. I wear a layer under my lip color and apply as needed throughout the day. Aside from the traditional jars, tubes and sticks, Carmex has some other items in their product lineup that are worth checking out.

Carmex Comfort Care-  A 100% natural blend of soothing colloidal oatmeal, fruit seed oil and mixed berry flavor that helps restore moisture for smoother, healthier, naturally beautiful lips.

• Crafted with a soothing blend of colloidal oatmeal and cold-pressed antioxidant-rich fruit seed oil 
• Helps restore lips’ natural beauty with long-lasting moisture
• Visibly smoother, healthier looking lips

Carmex Cold Sore Treatment gives immediate cold sore symptom relief you can see and feel

• Works on contact to relieve cold sore symptoms while the sore heals naturally
• Relieves pain and itch with benzocaine
• Minimizes the appearance of a cold sore with TriPLEX™ Formula

Over the years, I have given Carmex products as teacher gifts, stocking stuffers, and coworker gifts. I always suggest Carmex for gift-giving because it is so affordable and practical. It is also very well received. You can find Carmex products in most drug stores, grocery stores, and mass retailers. My local grocery stores almost always have the classic products on sale for just $1! Connect with Carmex on Facebook & Twitter for product updates.

Giveaway: One very luck Mom Files reader will win a Carmex gift pack of assorted products! Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and will end on December 29, 2016. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received product samples for review. All opinions are my own as always.

The Travel Files: Tartan+Twine Cosmetic Cases

This has been a busier than normal travel year for me. I feel like as soon as I unpack my bags, I am repacking them. We go on plenty of overnight trips, but I find myself packing like I'm going away for a week. Does this sound familiar to you too? One thing that is important to me is my cosmetics. I usually pack my makeup, perfume and brushes in makeup bags and keep them all in one medium size tote. I travel exclusively by car, and it is not unusual that my makeup rides in the front seat. I am that serious about my

precious eye shadows, lippies, and fragrance.

I was oh so lucky to get some gorgeous new cases from Tartan+Twine to review. First up is the Large Organizer from the Tawney Steppe Collection.

I love the quilted micro-suede fabric and the generous space inside, including a zippered compartment. You can easily keep your toiletries on one side, and makeup on the other. This bag retails for $25 and can be purchased at Ulta Beauty stores.

Next is the Tartan+Twine Double Zip Train Case from the Caitlyn Grove Collection. I am obsessed with this big and beautiful case. It is large enough to fit ALL of my beloved cosmetics. 😍

It is perfect for my eyeshadow palettes and even has separate sections for cosmetic brushes, lippies, and more. This is so good for when I want to take 1/2 dozen lip glosses and 3 mascaras. A girl can never have enough color variety when out of town. 👄

Now I can travel in style and keep my makeup and toiletries all in one place. This is the perfect thing for my long beach vacation that is coming up. This case can be purchased at Ulta Beauty for $30. It comes in other colors as well. Tartan+Twine cosmetic cases are the perfect gift for your daughter, sister, mother, friend or even your favorite makeup artist or nail tech.

Check out all of the beautiful collections from Tartan+Twine on the web. Also, be sure to follow them on Instagram for updates on their latest items.

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

A Simple Guide To Dermarollers

Skin care has come a long ways in the past couple of decades. So many treatments have been developed to combat aging and improve the appearance of our skin. However, sometimes the simplest of tools works just as well and for a lesser cost. If lasers and other treatments are out of reach of your budget, there are still options available to you. Consider micro-needling with Dermarollers.

What is Micro-needling?

Micro-needling is a process in which tiny, medical grade needles are used to create micro-sized channels in the skin. They pierce the lower level of our skin where cells generate collagen and elastins to repair and replace damaged cells. These tiny channels also make the skin effectively absorb vitamin enriched serums and materials to further improve the skin.

The term Dermaroller actually refers to a manual device with a handle and a barrel on the end covered in tiny needles. It is rolled across the surface of the skin using slight pressure to create the micro channels. It also comes in a couple variations - a pen shape with a small number of needles on the end called a Dermapen or a handle with a stamp full of needles called a Dermastamp. Both are pressed against the skin and sized to treat small areas.

What are Dermarollers used for?

Dermarollers treat multiple skin conditions. By penetrating the deep layer of our skin, they promote healing and replace the damaged cells:

• Anti-aging - Used around the eyes, lips, and forehead, Dermarollers can remove lines and wrinkles to make you look younger.
• Stretch marks - Treatments can reduce stretch marks so they are less noticeable
• Cellulite problems - With regular use, Dermaroller treatments can reduce or remove cellulite from the problem areas of the body, such as the thighs, arms, and even the stomach or rear end.
• Hair loss issues - Used in tandem with minoxidil, the micro-needling process not only slows or stops hair loss, it also helps grow new hair.
• Scar reduction and removal - With several treatments, scars can be reduced in size or even removed, depending on how severe they are.

Dermarollers vs. Other Procedures

There are several advantages to micro-needling versus other treatment methods. The most noticeable benefit is the savings. Obtaining micro-needling services at the clinic cost far less than other procedures. While you may find used laser equipment for sale on the internet, you can purchase your own Dermaroller for a mere fraction of the cost. Not only that, but it doesn't require special training to use.

Another advantage is that micro-needling reaches deep into the skin, opening up micro channels so the skin can readily absorb other products. Serums containing collagen do not work on their own, but combined with Dermarollers, the collage is highly effective as making the skin plumper and healthier.

Who can use Dermarollers?

Almost anyone can use Dermarollers. Clinics have technicians who know exactly which needle length to use for each area, making the application more successful. They apply topical anaesthetics to reduce discomfort and have access to effective serums to correct your skin issues. Some skin care problems require deeper applications, for which you should leave to the professionals.

They are also sold for personal use to be used in the convenience of your home. Just be sure to carefully read and follow the directions. Cleaning and sterilizing them before and after each use is extremely important.

What To Give The Distinguished Gentleman In Your Life

If you are looking for a special gift for the gentleman in your life, check out Schulz & Malley Trading Company's shaving collection. One misconception most people have about men is that you can just throw a bar of cheap soap at them and they're happy. This is so not true! Men are into their skin care routine more than ever! It's not just the ladies who like to feel pampered. 

Schulz & Malley products are manmade and of premium quality for the most distinguished gentleman. They contain natural ingredients (like Vitamin B, essential oils and more) that will not dry your skin out. Their regiment is quite simple and they offer 4 items including: Cleansing Face Wash, Pre-Shave Oil, Brushless Shave Cream, and After Shave Balm. Items can be purchased separately or as a full set which is perfect for gifting. You can purchase directly from the Schulz & Malley site or at QVC.

About Schulz & Malley Trading Company:

For full company info click here

"We love making products that are not only superior in the market, but ones that we want to use everyday. We are committed to making the best, nothing less. We are Schulz & Malley Trading Company, making products that men use and appreciate everyday."

Be sure to follow Schulz & Malley Trading Company on Facebook for product promotions and updates.

I received product samples in exchange for a review for our Holiday Gift guide. All opinions are my own as always.

Fabulous Fall Beauty Finds For Back-To-School

Today we will be talking about hair care. I have a lot of hair and have to wash/dry/style way more often than I care to. Having such long hair takes so much time to care for and it has become a chore that I wish I could avoid. The part that takes me over the edge is blow drying. It takes approximately 35-40 minutes to get my hair completely dry. Well thankfully I have a solution. I found the BEST blow dryer that has changed everything for me. The Hot Tools® Turbo IONIC® Dryer is perfect for anyone looking for something small, fast, and effective!

This dryer is so powerful and brought my drying time from 35 minutes down to 10 minutes! That is a HUGE time saver and I no longer dread hair wash days. What makes it so great? This modern dryer with a narrow, European nozzle packs an impressive airflow with quiet operation. Its PRO-MOISTURE SYSTEM™ with ION TECHNOLOGY® is supplemented with Tourmaline to deliver a hydrating “spa treatment” for your hair — while fighting frizz and locking in moisture for supremely soft, manageable hair. The contemporary dryer also includes a concentrator with a narrow opening for precise drying. 

I am so impressed with how sleek and straight my hair comes out with no frizz. My younger daughter borrows it and loves how much drying time has been cut out for her. She has biracial hair and noticed how less poufy her hair was after drying. With the super compact design, this dryer is perfect for dorm rooms. I will warn you though, roommates will want to borrow it! You can find the Hot Tools® Turbo IONIC® Dryer at Ulta stores for $70. It is worth every penny if you are looking for professional quality at home.

Not enough time on shampoo days? No problem! Simply wash and go in one easy step with Pert Plus Classic Clean. I know the guys benefit most with this type of product since they don't spend nearly as much time on hair like the ladies do. I absolutely love the clean scent and how soft it makes my hair. You can find Pert Plus at drugstores nationwide for around $3.39 (13.5oz), $5.49 (25.4oz).

For hair that needs a little more help, consider the Infusium23 Moisture Replenisher Collection ($6.99 – $8.99, Target)

Designed for moisture-deprived hair, the Infusium 23 Moisture Replenisher Collection is perfect to replenish your hair as you leave the beach and head back to school (or the carpool line). It is formulated with an exclusive blend of avocado and olive oil to lock in moisture and enhance shine, restoring dry and sun damaged hair in preparation for the fall. A unique i-23 Complex, enriched with provitamins, antioxidants, proteins and amino acids, instantly transforms dry, damaged tresses into soft, healthy-looking, more manageable hair, making it an essential collection to keep in your shower caddy. The collection includes Shampoo, Conditioner and Leave-In Treatment.

I received product samples to facilitate an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

Simply Straight™ Ceramic Straightening Brush Review & Giveaway

The information, product, and giveaway have been provided to me by Ontel. All thoughts and opinions are my own as always. 

I have had my eye on the Simply Straight™ Ceramic Straightening Brush for about a year now. I've seen the commercials on TV and love the idea of a brush that can smooth and straighten hair rather than using a damaging flat iron. Ever since I had my last child, my hair has changed a lot. It used to be super sleek and straight and now it is wavy and unpredictable. I couldn't wait to put this beauty tool to the test!

Information about Simply Straight™:

Simply Straight™ is a ceramic straightening brush that provides a revolutionary way to straighten and smooth all types of hair in minutes, without flattening, frying or damaging tresses. Perfectly straightens hair fast and easy!

Simply Straight™ combines the power of salon heat straightening up to 450° with the gentle styling ability of a brush to make straightening hair as easy as brushing it. The unique ceramic-wrapped bristles easily detangle and lift hair at the root to evenly deliver gentle heat around every strand, for straight, healthy, shiny hair that’s manageable and loaded with volume.

Combining innovation with simplicity, Simply Straight™ effortlessly tames unruly curls, waves and frizz, delivering long-lasting salon-quality results in no time. Simply Straight™ has adjustable temperatures for specific hair types and heats up to the ideal temperature in seconds.

Simply Straight’s™ bristles are coated for safe and gentle straightening and a voluminous finish. The Simply Straight™ brush heats up fast and has an “auto shut off” feature that activates after 60 minutes of power.

For best results and a sleek finish, use on dry hair and brush slowly in a pulling motion to ensure hair gets deep into the inner area of the brush.

So does it actually work? Here is a before and after shot. As you can see, I have uneven waves and after using Simply Straight™, my hair became straight and silky. I did set the temperature fairly high since I have very thick and resistant hair. 

I am pleased with how easy it is to use as well as the end result. I don't see smoke coming from my hair like I normally would using a flat iron. It also did not snag or pull my hair at all. I do suggest that you brush or comb through your hair before using. This will be a great tool to pack when I travel for quick touch-ups. You can purchase Simply Straight™ here for only $39.99 and also at many major retailers. Be sure to follow Simply Straight on Facebook for promotions and updates. 

Want to try the Simply Straight™ Ceramic Straightening Brush out for yourself? One lucky Mom Files reader will win one of their very own! ($39.99 value) Enter below: 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and will end on July 22, 2016. Be sure to follow rules within Rafflecopter widget for entries to count. Mom Files is NOT responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. One winner will be contacted via email to claim prize. Good luck! 

Protect Your Little Ones From Mosquitoes This Summer With Fairy Tales Bug Bandit Spray

It's that time of year again where we have to make sure we stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, take safety precautions with the high temperatures, and protect ourselves from those pesky mosquitoes. We have had more than our fair share of rain this year and with the extra rainfall comes the abundance of mosquitoes. I am very particular when I let my little boy go outside in the evening when the mosquitoes are most active, because he gets attacked like crazy. It's not unusual to see those enormous red patches all over his skin. 

It is essential that I use a good mosquito repellent on him. I received a bottle of Fairy Tales Bug Bandit DEET-Free Bug Spray to test out. This product does not contain chemicals or pesticides. It has a blend of lemon eucalyptus, soybean oil, and citronella to proved hours of protection against mosquitoes, fleas and no see-ums. 

As a mom, I love the idea of insect repellent that is free of harsh chemicals, toxins, parabens, and sulfates. Even better for those with allergies, it is also free of dairy, gluten and nuts. I have been using it on William for about a week and it has been working amazingly well. The one mistake I made the other day was not applying it to his neck. He was fine everywhere else, but the mosquitoes are so bad that they found his neck and had at it (sad face). I learned my lesson and sprayed some product on my hands and rubbed it along his neck for extra protection. I really appreciate that it does not leave a lingering pesticide odor and is very effective. You can't really put a price tag on protecting your little ones and this product is well worth it!

Fairy Tales Bug Bandit has become a summer must have! Even my husband uses it when he goes outside to work in the yard towards the evening hours. You can find Fairy Tales Bug Bandit on their website, at salons, specialty stores and retailers across the U.S.. An 8-ounce bottle retails for $13.95. Be sure to follow Fairy Tales Hair Care on Facebook and Twitter for product promotions and updates.

I received a product sample in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

Hard Candy Brow Ink Review

I am sure by now most of you have seen the latest beauty trend-- eyebrow enhancing. Some use products to fill in thin brows while others take it to the extreme. I personally go for a polished look and prefer natural looking brows. I got my eyebrows threaded a few months ago and after the process was over, the technician applied a brow filler. I really loved the look because it was super natural yet slightly dramatic (if that makes sense). I have never used any eyebrow filler in my whole life, but since then, I've been intrigued.

I have been seeing ads for kits that go up to $50. No way. I refuse to invest that kind of cash into a basic product. Today I want to share a new product from Hard Candy called Brow Ink. It is actually a brow stain. No lie, the word stain scared me a bit.

This product comes in a fun, contemporary looking tube. It comes in 2 colors: 1108 Light Medium and 1004 Medium Dark. I tried the medium dark since I am a brunette. When you open it, you will find a long, slender wand with ultra fine bristles.

This Brow Ink comes in a gel formula and instantly darkens and defines your brows. It has Henna Fruit Actives that nourish hair while the Longwear Ink Technology transforms brows that stay in place for 24 hours and is waterproof. 

I found the product very easy to use and it really does what it supposed to. One tip I will offer is that you should not press down too much when you apply. You will end up with too much product in one spot. If that happens you can easily use your finger to blend it in. 

The end result is a fuller, natural brow look. It does not smudge at all and does not come off until you remove it. Want to hear the best part? It costs only $6 and can be purchased at Walmart and Walmart.com. I still can't believe how good it is considering the low price tag. Seriously, it is worth a try and I highly recommend you give it a shot. If you try it out, please let me know how it worked for you.

Be sure to check out Hard Candy at their website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for beauty tips and product updates.

I received product in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always.  

Dove Beauty Bars - A Must-Have For Radiant Summer Skin (Giveaway)

Can you believe that today is the first day of June? Although the official summer season has not started, the temperature says otherwise. It is already blazing hot out and this means many of us are wearing shorts, tank tops, and sundresses. It is important to me that my skin always looks and feels good, especially when more of it can be seen. One of my summer beauty must-haves is a classic item, the Dove White Beauty Bar. It's a very effective way to get your skin looking and feeling smooth and moisturized for the season.

Dove Beauty Bars are not soap. While soap strips skin of essential nutrients, Dove replenishes them. It is renowned for its 1/4 moisturizing cream and contains natural skin lipids that deposit onto the skin. It contains a blend of very mild cleansers so your skin isn't being stripped or dried out. With all of the trips to the pool, beach, and other outdoor adventures, Dove beauty bars will help replenish your sun-drenched skin. It is also the #1 recommended bar by dermatologists.

Dove makes a variety of beauty bars, but the classic White Bar is my favorite. Are you ready to get your skin summer-ready? Enter below for a chance to win a Dove Beauty Bar prize pack. One winner will receive 3 2-packs.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and will end on June 14, 2016. Be sure to follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen and contacted via email to claim prize. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received product samples for review purposes. All opinions are my own as always.

Gear Up For Spring With NIC+ZOE

Today's post is sponsored by NIC+ZOE. All opinions expressed are my own.

I don't know about you, but I am so ready for Spring to hurry up and get here. I can just feel the warmth, hear the birds chirping and I get excited about wearing lighter clothing. The layers and heaviness of winter is starting to get to me. I have been thinking about adding some new items to my wardrobe this spring. I was browsing around the NIC +ZOE site at their Spring Collection. Everything looks so airy and feminine. I am really digging the soft colors and materials.

The Batiste Flirt Skirt is simply gorgeous. I love the length, cut and color choices (ash, black onyx and midnight). It is conservative enough to wear to work, but also girly enough to for a date night or girl's night out. I really love it in the ash color, but I always feel like you can't go wrong with black! Just add a light blouse, a couple of chunky bangles and some strappy heels, and you'll have a beautiful look for spring.

The Tassel Top is the perfect feminine tunic style top for spring. I really like the sandstone color. It is a very classic and sophisticated piece. I think it would look nice paired with skinny jeans and slim pants and either heels or ballet flats. You can't ever go wrong with a classic look. 

One thing you must have in your wardrobe is a couple of cardigans and this Holey Cardigan is adorable! It is really different and versatile. You really can wear it with any type of pants or skirt. I really love the simple look of the Sketchbook Pant. Dressed up or down, it is perfect!

NIC+ZOE really has some great pieces. I love the modern and feminine style that they have captured so well. I highly recommend classic pieces that you can mix and match to get the most out of each garment. Check out this short video showcasing their Spring + Summer 2016 featuring Coco Rocha... It screams vintage mixed with modern sophistication!



Check out all NIC+ZOE has to offer and be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest styles and promotions.

Pull Off Polished On a Budget

Whether it’s for an interview or a romantic date, polishing up your look only means good things. From makeup overhauls to new duds, posture practice to new accessories, implementing small changes can make a big difference.

Perfect Your Posture
You probably don’t realize just how much your posture affects your overall appearance. Slouching can bow your shoulders, causing you to look unkempt, shorter, and heavier. Poor posture can lead to various health consequences including back pain, so it’s in your best interest to work on perfecting your stance. Take a moment and consider your posture right now. Probably not the best, right? We all do it. Bending over at our desks, craning our necks down at our screen, slouching into the couch. Without making a conscious effort, it’s easy for us to fall into bad posture habits.

How to Improve It
There’s easy ways to better your posture, but they may not be what you expect. Contrary to popular belief, keeping your spine completely straight does not contribute to better posture. The best posture is brought about by maintaining two curves: the concave curve from your upper back to the base of your spine and the concave curve from base of your head to your shoulders. Keep your body weight balanced on the balls of your feet, and pretend your head and spine are being held up by a string from the ceiling, and remain aware of this throughout the day. Create alarms on your phone that will remind you to straighten your posture at hourly intervals if you find it hard to stick to.

Revamp Your Makeup Routine
Another easy way to polish your appearance is to overhaul your everyday makeup routine. If you’re using the same products and techniques you’ve been using for 10 years, it’s time to switch it up.

Switch Up Your Foundation
You want your foundation to look flawless without appearing cakey. Use a foundation that can create a matte finish and control your oil production throughout the day; my personal favorite is the Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation.

A New Lip
The nude lip is out, color is in. Especially in these cold winter months, don’t be afraid to try some deeper hues. Try a deep berry color or a rich red—don’t be afraid of the color. If you do go loud with your lip, keep your eyes natural looking, with just a swipe of mascara so as to avoid the clown look.

Try a Different Liner
Instead of sticking with the same old boring brown that you first tried when you were thirteen, incorporate some exciting hues into your eyeliner. Depending on your eye color, there are various options that can really make those irises pop. Try out copper if your peepers are hazel, use grey to make blue eyes stand out, and stick to light purple for brown eyes.

Relieve Your Stress
Do you want to know the one thing that doesn’t look good on anyone? Stress. Excess stress forces your body to produce a variety of hormones including cortisol, which results in more oil production and subsequently more skin problems, including acne. From under eye circles to puffy skin, stress wreaks havoc on our physical appearance to be sure, but it can also be deadly. From obesity to heart issues, you have every reason in the world to better manage your stress levels. Get more sleep, exercise, receive regular massages, and talk to a professional if your stress feels unmanageable.

Update Your Accessories
Don’t forget to give your accessories a facelift. Update your jewelry collection with understated pieces that you can wear daily to dress up any casual wear. I have a personal affinity for jewelry with a personal touch; these necklaces can be customized with your initial and go with anything and everything. Update what you carry with you as well, even down to your electronics. Grab a modern iPhone case and stay prompt with a classic Daniel Wellington watch. Remember that every detail contributes to the bigger picture.

Focus on the Details
Looking polished is about paying attention to the tiny details. Maintaining your manicure and pedicure do more than you know, and you don’t need to head to the nail salon to have your fingers and toes looking their best. Use a high-quality nail polish brand like Essie to avoid chipping, and don’t skip the base and top coats. The extra couple of swipes will be worth the wear you get out of your polish. Another detail that makes a difference? Your eyebrows. Threading may hurt, but it does look oh so good once finished.

Looking polished is a matter of paying attention to the details you might have shirked before. Incorporate these little changes into your daily routine and get that “pulled together” look we all seek.

Get Through Winter With ChapStick® Products (Giveaway)

Unless you live in South Florida or the Tropics, you are probably getting hit with some chilly temperatures. After having such a mild end of 2015, Mother Nature has unleashed her bone-chilling wrath. This means one of the things most of us experience-- dry lips. You know what? Dry lips are not sexy at all. No worries, the ChapStick® family of lip care products are here to save the day and your lips! 

ChapStick® has been a household name since I can remember. They are actually over 100 years old. Over the years, there have been many additions to the Classic line. Of course those Classics are perfect for every day wear and come in Original, Strawberry, Cherry and Spearmint. You can count on your lips feeling smooth and moisturized.

Provide your lips with a little extra TLC using ChapStick® Medicated. Whether you are feeling under the weather or just need that extra boost of hydration, ChapStick® Medicated quickly soothes and seals in moisture with a light, protective barrier to help heal dry, chapped lips.

Winter or summer, quench a thirsty pout and protect your lips with ChapStick® Moisturizers. Delivering an ultra hydrating formula, with ingredients, like Aloe and Vitamin, and fun lip-locking flavors, like Green Apple, Vanilla Mint, Raspberry Crème and Original, say hello to delicious hydration for lips!

ChapStick® Sun Defense offers a conditioning formula, including sun protection with SPF 25, defending skin all year long. Winter, spring, summer and fall, ChapStick® Sun Defense prevents and temporarily protects chafed, chapped or cracked lips.

Aloha! Treat your lips to a refreshing and fruitful getaway with tropical inspired, fresh fruit flavors reminiscent of warm weather and an island breeze with ChapStick® Tropical Paradise Collection.  Mix it up with *Mango Sunrise or soak in Aloha Coconut.

*Aloha Coconut will be available exclusively at Walmart stores nationwide while Mango Sunrise will be available at mass retailers and drug stores nationwide.

Don't walk around with dry lips. ChapStick® products are just what you need to get you through the winter months. We keep these lip balms handy year 'round.
Check out all of the ChapStick® lip care products on their site and be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for product information and promotions.

Giveaway: One lucky Mom Files reader will win a ChapStick® Prize Pack filled with similar items you see below. Enter in the Rafflecopter widget. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and will end on February 5, 2016. One winner will be chosen and contacted via email to claim prize. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Please follow rules in Rafflecopter. Good luck!

The ChapStick® product, information and gift have been provided by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare.. All opinions are 100% my own.

Top Beauty Gift Ideas 2015 #HolidayGiftGuide

If you are looking for the perfect gifts for all the special women in your life, you're at the right place. I want to share some of my favorite beauty products from 2015 that are perfect to put under the tree, stuff in stockings or doing a gift exchange with a coworker, family member or friend.  Regardless of your budget, there is something for all the ladies on your holiday gift list. 

First up is lip color. Susan Posnick makes an amazing moisturizing lipstick called ColorEssential. These lipsticks glide on so smooth with rich color and luxurious moisture. This is one lip color that does not dry out my lips and stays put relatively well. I love the color collection named after big cities like: London, NYC, Milan and Rio. What makes this lip color so special is that they adapt to any lip color which means in my case is a plus being brown-skinned. They retail for $21 each and can be purchased at SusanPosnick.com. 

Next up for you lips is a product from Fusion Beauty called Lip Fusion. It is a Plump & Shine lipstick that comes in some gorgeous colors. I really love how well this lip color goes on and that little tingle you get that lets you know your lips will look full and plump. It has a really nice shine and is perfect for those date nights out on the town. These scream Holiday Lips! You can purchase them at FusionBeauty.com for $29. 

Do you have an eco-conscious friend or family member? CLEAN fragrances are a smart choice. Just the name "CLEAN" makes me feel good and I am sure the special ladies in my life will agree. These premium products stand behind their name, CLEAN- Simple, Nostalgic and Conscious. The packaging is very attractive and is sure to make any woman feel extra special. They comes in a nice variety of fragrances, but I especially love the CLEAN Rollerball Collection which includes 5 scents; each can be worn alone or layered for a new experience. Prices range from $18-$69 and can be purchases at CleanPerfume.com, Sephora and ULTA. 

For the women who are obsessed with keeping their skin in excellent condition, the Instrumental Beauty Sonic Facial Brush is a winner. You can check out my in-depth review here. The Instrumental Beauty Sonic Facial Brush can be purchased at select drugstores and at InstrumentalBeauty.com for $80.00 and the Yardley Nourishing Elements Soap can be found at drugstores nationwide for $4.99 for a 3-pack.

One of the best stocking stuffers for your teens has got to be related to nails. KISS Nails and Nail Art Kits are the perfect idea. Affordable, fun and easy-to-use, you just can't go wrong! There are so many color and design options to choose from. Now your teen can have a fabulous holiday manicure with minimal effort. KISS Nails are available at Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, Rite Aid, Kmart and other retailers.

This last item is one of my absolute favorite, must have beauty tools, the KISS InstaWave Automatic Curler. This curling heat tool is so easy to use and is perfect for anyone who desires gorgeous spiral curls or waves. Please check out my full review here. You can purchase the Instawave ($59.99) at KISSInstaWave.com or at retailers including: Target, Ulta.com and Amazon.com. It's a fabulous styling tool and I highly recommend it if you are currently looking for something great to curl your hair.

I received product samples in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own as always.