Family * Travel * Food

Relax with Grace & Stella Lavender Skin Care Products

Lavender is an exceptional and highly sought-after ingredient in beauty products due to its remarkable benefits for both the skin and overall well-being. Its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help soothe and calm the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin types. The gentle floral scent of lavender also offers aromatherapeutic advantages, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can positively impact skin health. Its natural antibacterial qualities aid in combating acne-causing bacteria, while its ability to boost circulation contributes to a healthier complexion with a radiant glow. Whether used in lotions, creams, oils, or serums, lavender proves to be a multifaceted botanical that nourishes, revitalizes, and enhances the beauty of the skin. 


If you are looking for some relaxation and pampering, you must check out the lavender line of body products from grace & stella. Please note that this post may contain affiliate links.


lavender spray (SRP: $26) — Spray all night. Soothing your atmosphere is just as important as soothing your skin. Get ready for the best sleep of your life with this mood-lifting spray for your linens, pillows, and room. Infused with lavender flower water, aloe extract, and chamomile flower extract to calm your worries and combat insomnia. It is also backed up by real aromatherapy science to treat headaches and relieve tension. An absolute must for peri- and menopausal women!


lavender essential oil (SRP: $26) – Calm yourself.  And don’t let a summer headache get you down. This 100% pure lavender oil provides pain-relief that makes you go "ahh"! Promoting relaxation and used to treat anxiety, headaches, depression, insomnia, and more, it is the upgrade your self-care routine has been craving. You've never known a more peaceful sleep - lavender oil is infamous in the aromatherapy world for boosting sleepiness and relieving stress and muscle tension for a relaxed body. It also offers anti-inflammatory properties, and treats fungal infections, allergies, eczema, nausea, and menstrual cramps.


lavender dr. pedicure foot peeling mask (SRP: $26/2 pairs & $34/4 pairs) — Down for the peel. 

Are barefoot summer days and long walks on the beach leaving your feet rough and calloused? This viral and gross-but-satisfying exfoliant foot peel is packed with powerful alpha hydroxy acids (including lactic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid) that will completely shed the dry, calloused skin off feet. It's formulated to penetrate deep into the skin barrier to soften and repair feet, transforming and peeling them to reveal the fresh skin underneath. Hello, baby-soft feet. Buy them here


lavender body lotion (SRP: $25) — Do your skin a favor.  Amazon’s Choice and Overall Pick, this effective, anxiety-relieving but not-overpowering daily body lotion is enriched with the relaxing scent of lavender essential oil to promote calmness and wellness, and the nourishing properties of shea butter to instantly hydrate skin and maintain moisture for up to 12 hours. Does the sun, chlorine or saltwater have your skin looking like raisins these days? This smooth, intensely-replenishing, lightweight formula melts effortlessly into your skin, leaving it soft, supple, moisturized, and smelling oh-so-good.

just the facts:

●      truly clean!

●      100% Vegan

●      cruelty-free - Leaping Bunny certified

●      no dyes are used in any products 

●      paraben-free

grace & stella is available on Amazon and graceandstella.com

Thank you so much to grace & stella for the lovely products to try out. We love them! 
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Not Just for Wrinkles: 5 Uses of Botox That Might Surprise You

Botox has been around for many years. As a cosmetic drug, it was discovered by two Canadian doctors. They were treating patients with facial spasms when they realized the patient's fine lines and wrinkles were disappearing. This was in 1987. In 2002, the FDA approved the drug as a cosmetic aid.

Today, there are many different effective Botox treatments an individual can use to help regain their health, look better, and feel better in many areas of their life.

Here are the 5 uses of Botox that might surprise you:

1. Migraine and Headache Reducer
 
Many individuals suffer from debilitating migraines in which they can't function normally. These super headaches send the person to bed in a dark and quiet room, sometimes for hours if not days. Botulinum toxin or Botox has been shown to lessen the severity and duration of migraines in both men and women. In some cases, Botox has enabled a headache sufferer to have more pain-free days per month than ever before.  This is with yearly or every six months treatments, depending on the patient.


 2. Bladder Control

Three in 10 men, and four in 10 women suffer from some type of bladder control issue. The FDA approved Botox for a variety of bladder issues back in 2013. A small dose of this drug helps to relax the bladder, making the spasms less while it also helps to expand the bladder. This expansion helps to give more room to collect urine and that means fewer trips to the bathroom.
 
3. Strabismus Correction

Strabismus is a medical condition of the eyes. It is where one eye may look straight ahead, while the other seems to be focused to the left or right, also known as improper alignment of the eyes. Since the early 1980s, small Botox injections have been able to properly align a wandering eye. It is also safe in small children with this eye condition.


 4. Shoulder and Neck Pain

Botox can be helpful in reducing shoulder and neck pain in certain persons. Myofascial and posterior pain are both lessened with Botox injections spaced out for several months for a year or so. Chronic shoulder and neck pain can be a contributing factor in headaches and Botox treatments have also been shown to rid a person of these types of headaches.

5. Excessive Sweating

Hyperhidrosis is a condition in which a person suffers from excessive sweating, even when the weather is not hot out. This is an amount of sweat that is like a dripping faucet or even a flowing river. It is a lot of sweat. Typical antiperspirants and deodorants do not work for this small group of individuals. Botox injections under the arm, and even in the hands and feet, can help to control the excessive sweating many people suffer with and helps to improve their quality of life.
 
These are just a few of the many uses of Botox injections that your doctor can prescribe to help you live a better, less painful life. Always listen to the recommendation of your trusted physician before deciding to get Botox injections. 
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4 Strategies for Staying Healthy This Summer

With Summer just around the corner, it is important to keep the health of you and your family top of mind. Whether you are staying home all summer or looking to take a trip, knowing how to create and maintain some healthy habits is crucial. Here are some ways to keep you and your loved ones happy and healthy this summer.

Stay hydrated

With the summer heat building up during these longer days, it is important to keep yourself hydrated. Suffering from dehydration can lead to health problems like headaches, fainting, and even heat stroke. Keeping a reusable water bottle with you at all times can ensure you are drinking enough water daily. If you have children that struggle with picky eating habits and who hate the taste of plain water, consider infusing it with some of their favorite fruits. Using strawberries or lemons can give the water a fresh taste and encourage them to drink more! 

Keep protected

Having fun in the sun is a great way to stay active and curate some healthy habits. Going to the beach, taking a hike, or any outdoor activity is great for getting the right amount of exercise. When you are outdoors it is incredibly important to keep yourself protected from the sun. Having a strong and dependable sunscreen will keep you and your family safe from the dangers of sun exposure. Too much sun can lead to conditions like sunburn, sun poisoning, and sunstroke. While wearing accessories like hats can also help create a barrier between you and the sun, you should be vigilant with applying and reapplying sunscreen.

Be prepared

With summer being the perfect time for spontaneity, it is essential to have a go-bag prepped in advance with the little things you might normally forget on a trip. Having this bag ready will help you cover your bases and decrease the stress of forgetting important items on your journey. Include the things you and your family will most certainly need, like toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap—any and all of your basic hygiene items are generally necessities for a trip. 

Also be sure to include a stocked first aid kit that makes sense for you and your family’s needs. If anyone suffers from severe or life threatening allergies, you should pack an EpiPen to be safe.  Similarly, if you or a loved one has vision issues you should make sure you include prescription contacts in the kit. Having a fresh pair of contacts available can save you if you lose or break your glasses and can’t immediately replace them. Being prepared for any scenario will help keep you and your family safe this summer wherever you are. 

Practice self-care

Taking care of your health is more than taking care of just your physical health; your mental health is a large component of your overall wellness. After all of the changes 2020 brought, the world opening up can cause a great deal of anxiety for those who haven’t experienced the hustle of crowds in a long time. Make sure you make time to practice self-care in whatever way you need to keep your mental health in check. This could include taking walks alone, picking up a journal, or spending time meditating. Talking as a family about how to combat any anxieties you may be facing can be a great way to keep the lines of communication open about mental health as well.

Keeping up with healthy habits is a great way to maintain a positive lifestyle this summer. As a family, it is important to work together and help each other stay as happy and healthy as possible. 

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Things You Should Know Before Taking a Water Pill to Lower Blood Pressure

A few months ago, I went for a follow-up appointment with my physician in regards to my elevated blood pressure. It has been trending to be way too high for close to a year now. We discussed how dangerous it can be, and it would be in my best interest to bring it down with the help of medication. We went over my options that were most suitable for my age, gender and race. I opted to go with the water pill since it had the least side effects. The most common issues that come with them is frequent urination. I figured I could live with it since I am home all the time anyway. 

I took the water pills for 2 months and everything was fine for the first 6 weeks. I felt no different, but unfortunately my BP wasn't necessarily going down by much. I had a few days where it was perfect, but most days it was still elevated. I noticed a few weeks ago that my arms started to turn red and tiny little bumps appeared out of nowhere. I remembered going out to work in my garden, but did so when it was in the cooler part of the day. This was nothing outside of the norm for me. I don't get a sunburn easily at all. I started going through every possible thing that was different in my daily routine, and if I was eating anything different or using anything new. Nothing had changed as far as I could think. 

After doing some research, it turned out that I have a sun rash. It became pretty irritated and appeared on my chest area and lower arms, right where a t-shirt would cut off. I have never had any issues with the sun before, and luckily I wear a face moisturizer with SPF every day, so my face was not affected. It got to a point to where it felt a bit feverish and swollen in some areas, and I had to resist the urge to scratch.  As I got deeper into researching what caused it, it turned out that a water pill (diuretics) is the top medication that can cause it. That explained everything! Once I figured all of this out, I stopped taking the water pill and oddly enough, my BP levels have somewhat come down and are closer to normal, but still needs to be lower. 

I have another follow-up appointment in July and I will decide if I will need to try another medication. The rash has completely gone away, and I am able to go outside without any issues.  If you do get a sun rash, the best way to heal it is to use cortizone cream, avoid using scented products, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and avoid sun exposure as much as possible. If you do need to go outside, be sure to wear sunscreen and a light-colored long-sleeve shirt. If you can't deal with the itchiness, Benadryl will help. It took me a solid 2 weeks to get it completely healed up. I can't imagine staying on the water pill and not being able to be outdoors. No way! I wanted to share this information in the event anyone has considering going on a water pill to lower blood pressure. Thank you for stopping by today! 
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Gadgets to Help Your Skin Care Regime

As the world of technology grows into ever more expansive worlds, there are numerous ways in which they can help your skin care regime. This will help you save money on expensive skin lotions and will ensure that you have plumper fresher skin for longer without the cost of going to spa treatments. As more technology becomes accessible, now is the time to invest without breaking the bank. 


Luminance RED

Luminance RED offers a range of different products that can make sure your face, mouth and even genitals stay clear and healthy. Their lip device delivers concentrated wavelengths of light that can combat sores around the lips. Equally, they offer a mouth device that does the same and can fight the pesky and painful ulcers that can form in the mouth. To make it more of an attractive prospect, they are offering a 6-month money back guarantee. 

Trinity Facial Toning Device

This is an award-winning skin care device that has multiple attachments to rejuvenate your appearance. It is essentially fitness for your face. It sculpts the face making it tighter and helps it to combat aging and sagging. Adding definition to the face can strip the years off of your face in the matter of days. 


Dermapore Ultrasonic Pore Extractor

This handy and cheaper tool can cleanse your face and keep your pores dirt free. Combatting oil and blackheads by utilising a rounded spatula shape to not only comfortably remove blackheads but also minimise pores. This also lets your serums and moisturizers penetrate the skin and activate the ingredients of your lotions. This is a simple to use tool that can easily brighten your look. 

Face Defuzzers

Instead of throwing money at the newest lotion or skincare cream, buy these fantastic tools that will unveil the secret to baby-smooth skin. This dermatological tool is a fine blade that can remove dead skins to reveal the softer and fresher skin underneath. Equally, these versatile tools can be used to shave off peach fuzz, brow shaping and any unwanted hair. Use it on clean dry skin and combine it with a decent moisturiser to have fresher, brighter skin. 

Facial Steamer

This facial steamer will detoxify and cleanse your skin no matter what your skin type is and will clear your pores. On top of this, it will stimulate circulation to the face and remove dead skin cells. It utilises nano-sized water molecules to penetrate the skin and stop acne and spots breaking out in clusters. This will also help your skin be more receptive to skincare creams and treatments. In no time at all you will have a clear and beautiful skin complexion that will be the talk of all your friends. 


Gadgets

There are so many handy tools out there. Whilst they may seem initially costly, they can save you money in the long run. No longer will you need an inordinate amount of skincare products. You can find the ones that work for you and combine it with a handy new gadget. 

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How a Simple Facial Benefits Your Skin

Keeping your skin healthy requires a bit of work. Of course, you should use a high-quality moisturizer each day and sunscreen of at least 15 SPF. You also need to cleanse your face daily. The things you do on a monthly basis matter, too. Once per month, you should visit a Spokane facial spa for a complete facial. This addition to your skincare routine provides deep cleaning and specialized skin treatments that improve the skin’s health. 


The term facial refers to a skin treatment comprised of multiple steps and multiple skin treatments. It usually includes:

  • steam to open pores,
  • face masks to treat special problems such as acne or wrinkles,
  • exfoliation to remove dead skin,
  • cleansing to deeply clean the skin,
  • facial massage to stimulate proper blood flow,
  • application of creams, lotions, or serums to treat the skin’s special problems.

You could go in for a general facial, but your skin will benefit the most by choosing a special treatment that hones in on the special skin problem and provides it with a focused treatment. Some options include moisturizing facials, firming and restoration facials, and extraction facials. If you are interested in exploring the benefits of getting a facial and finding out what treatments might work for you, you should start by searching online for a reputable aesthetician in your area. For example, if you are based in Pennsylvania, you can search "facial near me in Harrisburg, PA" to find the best facial offerings in and around Harrisburg. You should always book a consultation before getting any full facial treatments. 


A facial removes dirt, toxins, and oil buildup from your skin. It removes dead skin cells through deep exfoliation methods like microdermabrasion. By unclogging your skin’s pores, the facial products can better absorb into the skin to do their job. Undergoing an extraction facial removes blackheads and whiteheads plus treats pimples to quickly clean up breakout and prevent new ones. An anti-aging facial slows down the skin’s aging process and prevents wrinkles. This includes a facial massage that results in increased oxygen flow and blood circulation plus professional level anti-aging creams and serums to deeply penetrate the skin and result in a visible difference as well as enhancing elasticity and collagen production.

The best facials come from a trained aesthetician, a professional who undergoes training in how to apply facial products and treatments and how to best perform facial massage. An aesthetician can analyze your skin and recommend a daily skincare routine that also benefits your skin. During the process of these monthly treatments, the aesthetician examines your skin for suspicious spots and moles. They alert you to any problems found. 

Facials help with more than common problems like acne and wrinkles. You can also get a facial that helps treat problems like sun spots, sun damage, rosacea, and eczema.

While a facial might sound like something only for the wealthy, it remains an affordable service at most spas and helps improve your skin’s look and health. That makes it more than simply an occasional treat, but an imperative part of a healthy skincare routine. Every four to six weeks, you should undergo a facial. While you can do a mini-facial at home in between visits, your aesthetician provides important advice, tips, and services that go beyond what you can do yourself. Their special training makes them especially adept at noticing skin changes that could point to a more serious issue such as skin cancer.

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Minimize Skin Pores in Ways That Actually Work!

Have you been visiting beauty salons and dermatologists to figure out how to minimize pores? Open and big-sized pores can lead to several skin-related issues like acne and pimples. Apart from giving your skin an oily feel and appearance, open pores can look unsightly and prevent you from using the makeup of your choice. As per experts, the look and size of your pores are dependent on several factors such as skin type, genetics, exposure to the sun, age, and so forth. Read on to know more about the effective ways of minimizing pores and taking care of them.

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Why are Pores Necessary?

Much as you would like your pores to disappear, do know they have some important functions to fulfill. They allow your skin to inhale and exhale air. They serve as a channel for passing air between the outside and inside of your body. Dermatologists and skincare articles (https://siorai.com/how-to-improve-your-skin-and-minimize-pores/) have plenty of tips and tricks in store to shrink the pores and provide you with flawless skin. Though the pores on the skin cannot be done without, you can make them less noticeable by shrinking their visual appearance.

Tips to Reduce the Size of Pores
  1. Keep the magnifying glass away and start cleaning 
At the very onset, do know that your pores do not appear as big to others as they do to you when you see them through the magnifying mirror. So, just loosen up and relax. Regular exfoliation and a daily cleaning regime can be effective ways of keeping your pores clean and clear. Open pores, especially those that are free from any type of dirt, can be difficult to spot. However, to open them you need to apply steam or heat, and then, a warm washcloth prior to starting the scrub off process.

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Cleaning your face once or twice a day is enough. In case you are cleaning your pores just once every day, then night time cleaning is preferable to remove the last traces of makeup or dirt. Anyway, it’s essential that you scrub your face clean before going to bed. This will take care of your open pores and make them appear smaller in size.

      2. Don’t Touch Your Pores

Remember to keep your hands away from your face unless you are doing so to clean it or are in the course of a skincare routine. This is because the bacteria and grime present on your hands can find their way into the pores and block them. Along with giving your face a dull and dirty look, the closed pores can lead to infections and other skin related problems. Therefore, minimize touching your skin, and do not pick at it under any circumstances as the act can result in blemish, blood clot, scabbing, scarring, or angrier pores.

Take Care of Your Pores

Last but certainly not least, try to wear a good sunscreen cream or gel at all times to protect yourself from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Retinoid creams are also useful in increasing the cell turnover of your skin. Good care and appropriate cleansing routine can help you get smaller and better-looking pores  - in just a matter of days.

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Nubian Heritage Honey & Black Seed Collection For Kings & Queens

Can you believe that the summer is almost over? Although the school has started in many cities, the summer heat will still be around for a couple more months. Our weather in South Carolina has been unusually dry which means it has been rough on our skin. We make it a point to wear sunscreen when we are going to spend extended time outdoors, as well as keeping hydrated by drinking a lot of water.  

One thing that my family has been exploring more of is natural products when it comes down to skincare. My husband specifically has been using organic black seed oil for a couple years now. Black seed oil dates back over 3,000 in Egypt. It was believed that Queen Nefertiti used it to maintain her exquisite complexion. Black seed earned the Arabic approbation "habbatual barakah", the seed of blessing, for its powerful properties. I was really thrilled to find out about the Honey & Black Seed collection from Nubian Heritage


The Honey & Black Seed collection is enriched with antioxidant-rich Black Seed Oil blended with Arabian Honey and Apricot Oil. These ingredients blended with natural enzymes, amino acids, and proteins, boosts the skin’s natural appearance and, with daily use, leaves the skin soft, smooth and hydrated.


The Honey & Black Seed lotion is the most luxurious and moisturizing lotion I have ever used. It's super thick, yet not over-the-top heavy. I like feeling the moisture from lotion long after it was applied, and this one does just that. You can feel the softness all day long. This is one lotion that I do not have to reapply. It has a great neutral scent, so my husband uses it as well.


This soap is so moisturizing and nourishing with little scrubbing bits in it. It lathers a lot better than many other brand soaps I have used. It leaves no residue behind and is good for the most sensitive skin, and has a nice fragrance, too.

The collection includes:

  • Bar Soap (SRP: $4.99) 
  • Body Lotion (SRP: $10.99) 
  • Body Wash (SRP: $10.99) 
  • Hand Cream (SRP: $9.99) 
  • 24-Hour Deodorant (SRP: $8.99) 
  • Infused Shea Butter (SRP: $12.99)

As with all Nubian Heritage products, the Honey & Black Seed collection is cruelty-free, and does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, paraffin, mineral oil, petroleum, DEA, synthetic fragrance or artificial coloring.


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Seasonal Skincare: Transitioning from Spring to Summer

As spring turns into summer, we all prepare for the warmer temperatures. Pants change to shorts and women often wear dresses to beat the heat. There are many ways in which the season changes affect our daily lives, including skin care. When the temperatures begin to get warmer, it is important to consider seasonal changes to your skin care. An example of this would be the hydration that Squalane oil can provide. As the temperatures may dry out your skin, you can benefit from additional skin care therapies. 
Photo by Vitória Santos from Pexels

Products To Try
Every individual is different, so while one person may have dry skin during the summer, another may have oily skin. It is important to take note as to how your skin reacts during each season and add products accordingly. During the summer, Matrixyl and hyaluronic acid work well on the skin. Finding the Best hyaluronic acid serum and matrixyl products can assist in your skin care regimen. 
With matrixyl, you have a product that helps to reduce the signs of aging. The product contains Matrikines which is an anti-wrinkle complex. The skin is taught to behave differently, with the restricting of the papillary dermis network taking place. 
With hyaluronic acid serum, you have a product that provides much-needed moisture and hydration. Apply the serum in the morning and at night to see the best results. 
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Creating Habits
Once new products have been purchased and a skin care regimen created, stick with it. Wash your face morning and night and take time to treat the skin. Over time, you will see quality results and want to continue to have glowing and beautiful skin. 
Set timers for yourself or try to clean your face at the same times each day. This will help you to create a habit that works so you can see long-lasting results! 
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February Ipsy Bag Review

I got my Ipsy Glam Bag for February last week, and I wanted to share my thoughts on the products. First of all, if you're not familiar with Ipsy, it is a subscription-based service that costs $10 per month with free shipping. There is no contract and you can even mute your subscription temporarily if you want. You receive 5 beauty items based on your personal profile, and the makeup bag of the month. I have been a customer for 2 years and I am obsessed with Ipsy! 

So this month's bag is called "unzipped"

Here's what's inside the bag:

  • PÃœR Mini Fully Charged Mascara
  • Sand & Sky Brilliant Skin Pink Clay Mask
  • Mellow Cosmetics Precision Liquid Pen Eyeliner in Black
  • Beauty Basics Eyeshadow in Lavish
  • Luxie Beauty Blending and Shading Eye Brush 249


The bag itself is so pretty, and super feminine. I love the shade of pink paired with the black lace. 

The eyeliner really wasn't anything special. I think I am sick of liquid liners in general. I may need to adjust my profile so I get fewer of them. That mascara though? It is so good! I love how full they make my lashes look without being clumpy of stiff. I am such a fan of premium mascaras. However, if you don't like using mascara then I would definitely check out magnetic lashes (they are super easy to use!).

The face mask was nice. I loved the scent and how my face looked. The downfall was that I felt it was a bit drying for my normal skin. If you tend to have oily skin, this would probably work well for you. I probably need to research and see if they carry a moisture-boosting version.
I am such a fan of makeup brushes so I was happy to add this blending and shading brush to my mini-collection. The eyeshadow is a pretty shade that has a shimmery finish. It lasts all day, so that's a plus for me.
I tell everyone that my month Ipsy Glam Bag is the BEST $10 I spend each month. It's so nice to feel like I am getting a treat that's just for me. What is amazing is that most months, I will get 1-3 full size products. It is such a good value.


If you are considering an Ipsy subscription, you meed to go for it! Also, you earn points towards more products when you do the online reviews (which takes very little time). I have 535 points that I am about to cash in for a freebie!

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great week!

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4 Reasons You Should Start a Skin Care Regimen in 2018

Not only is your skin the largest organ in your body, but it's also the most visible, which is why you need to treat it with care. Pamper your skin, and it will pay you back with a gorgeous glow that no makeup product in the world can mimic. A skin care regimen doesn't take a lot of time, and you end up with so much more than what you put into it.

Time Flies When You're Having Fun

Your age is practically irrelevant. It's never too early to prevent the signs of aging or the damage caused by free radicals, indoor and outdoor pollutants, and daily stressors. The sun, for example, affects your skin whether you're 16 or 60. Practice healthy skin care habits early. Start young, and your routine will become a preventative measure that can save time, money, and heartache down the line.

The things you do to your skin in your youth will out you as you age. Late nights, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking cigarettes, not getting enough sleep, and never drinking enough water will catch up to you and slam into your skin like a ton of bricks. 
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Skin Care Is Self-Care

It's the year of self-care. You have to do things that make you feel good and relieve your stress. That's not to say that applying serum, toner, and moisturizer every night will relax you. Applying a face mask can reduce your stress level, though. Browse a selection of face masks to find a style that appeals to you. 

Sheet masks from LuLuLun are all the rage, and clay masks never go out of style, either. You'll also experience an unbelievable amount of satisfaction if you use a blackhead mask designed to pull the gunk straight out of your pores. Search the blog for tips about which masks are best for different types of skin and when to use them.

The Seasons Affect Your Skin

Winter typically brings dry air that can sap moisture from your skin. You're more apt to wind up with flaky, dehydrated skin because of the crisp weather outside. How you heat your home can have an effect, too. In the summer, high temperatures and humidity make you sweat, which leads to oily skin and saturated pores. A seasonal skin care regimen protects your skin in any climate, regardless of the temperature.

You Shed Your Skin Every Day

Every day, you shed old skin cells. However, many of those cells remain on your face, giving it a dull, lifeless appearance. They clog your pores as well, resulting in a rough appearance and an excess of oil. The least you can do is buff and polish your skin daily with facial scrubs, cleansing serums, penetrating toners, and moisturizers suited to your skin type.

Make this the year that you take care of your skin in earnest. Don't wait until it's too late because by then, you'll have to scramble to undo the damage. It's better to take a proactive approach that puts you in control of your skin.
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Does O'Keeffe's Foot Cream Really Work?

Have you ever seen a commercial for a product that is marketed in such a way that you really want to try it out for yourself? I have seen the commercials and online ads for O'Keeffe's foot cream for a couple years now and I've been so curious about if it actually works. O'Keeffe's is supposed to be for extremely dry, cracked feet so I wanted to see if it would help these overworked tootsies since I am constantly on my feet. I am almost always barefoot or in flip-flops or sandals, so I finally decided to give it a shot. I ordered it on Amazon a couple weeks ago (after adding it to my wishlist 2 months prior) and have been using it daily for about 9 days now. 

It comes in a small jar and I was expecting a super thick cream, but it's not like that. It is a bright white color and does not feel greasy or heavy and is completely odorless. It absorbs quickly and you can walk barefoot or put on shoes right after applying without feeling like you're slipping or sliding. I noticed a difference in the appearance of my feet as well as the feel after the first use. Even my daughters tried it and noticed instant improvement. My husband gives me a foot rub every night and he's amazed at how soft my feet feel. 


The product makes like a barrier around your skin that keeps it from drying out and it holds the moisture all day long. I'm used to applying lotion or cream up to three times daily, but only use this once a day. I don't know what took me so long to try it, but I am glad I did! The bottoms of my feet feel like I go and get a pedicure every day. It's awesome and I really do recommend it to anyone. You can find it here for under $10 and for an even better deal, you can get both the healthy feet and working hands cream combo below. It works out to less than $15. If you have Amazon Prime, you can get FREE shipping.

Seriously, if your feet are in need of some real help, you have to give O'Keeffe's for Healthy Feet a try. This one goes on my top 5 beauty must-haves list. If you decide to try it out, let me know what you think. Thanks for stopping by today! 

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New Baby Dove Moisture Rich Product Line (Giveaway)

Did you know that Dove makes baby products? I did not know until recently and thought, it's about time! Dove has been a reliable household favorite for decades. You can't beat that gentle clean with powerful moisturizers. Now you can give that same thing to your baby or little one. The new Baby Dove Rich Moisture product line offers a tip-to-toe wash, baby lotion, baby bar, shampoo, and baby wipes.


Each product is made with your delicate baby's skin in mind. All products are dermatologist and pediatrician tested. Here is a little information on each product:

  • Rich Moisture Tip to Toe Wash - As gentle as water, tear-free, hypoallergenic, pH-neutral baby wash and shampoo in one. It contains super mild cleansers for baby's skin and helps more moisture and nutrients stay in the skin. Retails for $5.99 for 13oz or $7.99 for 20oz. 
  • Rich Moisture Baby Lotion - Soothes dry skin and leaves baby's skin extra soft and delicately scented. Retails for $5.99 for 13oz or $7.99 for 20oz.
  • Rich Moisture Baby Bar - This is like junior version of the adult bar and retails for $2.49 for 3.17oz. 
  • Rich Moisture Shampoo - Unlike regular baby shampoos, this one contains 1/4 moisturizing cream. Retails for $5.99 for 13oz.
  • Rich Moisture Baby Wipes - As gentle as water and effectively removes impurities while moisturizing baby's delicate skin. They are hypoallergenic and alcohol-free. Retails for $4.49 for 30 wipes. Great for travel! 
Although my son William is no longer a baby, I still have to use gentle products for his skin. The Baby Dove Rich Moisture Line is excellent and I suspect will last for a long time. I confess, I love the very light scent that is reminiscent of a freshly bathed baby. There is also a sensitive skin version of these products as well. This is one of those times I wish I had these skin care items for all of my babies when they were babies. 

You can find Baby Dove products at Walmart, Target, Walgreens, and Amazon. If you are looking for a great baby shower gift, I suggest this entire product line. I know that the recipient would love it! Of course, I know you will love these products for your own baby. For more details on these products, visit the Baby Dove site. 

We have great news! One very lucky Mom Files reader will win the entire Baby Dove Rich Moisture product line. Enter below:

This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and will end on June 16, 2017. Please follow all rules in the Rafflecopter widget and be sure to use a valid email. One winner will be selected and contacted via email to claim prize. Please be aware that Mom Files is not responsible for any lost, stolen or damaged prizes. Good luck! 

Disclosure: We received products in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% our own. 
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Replenish Your Aging Skin With DerMend Mature Skin Solutions

Although I have been blessed with good genes, there are some things that are inevitable. You can have the best genes on the planet, but you will age along the way. Of course aging is an absolute blessing and I'm sure we all desire to live a long life. I have noticed so many changes in myself ever since I hit 40. One thing that is really starting to show is a difference in my skin. My face still maintains its firmness and shows little signs of wrinkles. I think that because I wear a daily sunscreen on my face year 'round, it has halted the normal aging process. The rest of my body is a different story.

My arms and legs seem to be less radiant like it was in my 20's or 30's. I feel like I have tried every product there is! I even did the whole coconut oil thing and feel like it made my skin more dry and scaly looking. I was recently introduced to the DerMend line of skincare products made specifically for aging skin for the over 40 crowd. I was low-key sad at first, but realized that having skincare products targeted to help specific issues is not a bad thing.


Here is a little info on each product:

DerMend Moisturizing Anti-Itch Lotion
If you suffer from frequent itchy, dry mature skin, use this gentle moisturizing lotion to relieve the itch effectively with its safe, steroid-free formula. The formula goes on easily and absorbs instantly. It is recommended to use up to 3 or 4 times a day. I guess if you suffer from very dry, itchy, sensitive skin this would make sense to have to use it more than once. I find that 1-2 times works for me. It really feels like smooth with no stickiness whatsoever. It is unscented which is good. Most scented products are very drying to skin. It retails for $19.99 for an 8-ounce bottle.


DerMend Moisturizing Bruise Formula Cream
If you experience chronic, frequent bruising, use this cream to help improve the appearance of bruises and replenish your skin’s protective barrier. This cream is super emollient, while keeping your skin feeling smooth and not sticky. It feels like you have a protective barrier on your skin in a good way. You have to be careful using this product if you are going to be exposed to the sun since it contains alpha hydroxy acid. It retails for $29.99 for a 4.5 ounce tube.


DerMend Fragile Skin Moisturizing Formula Cream
If your skin is thin, crepey and damages easily, use this cream to help restore, rejuvenate and repair thin, fragile skin. As we mature, our skin loses elasticity. Many factors, including repeated sun damage, cause elastin and collagen under the skin’s surface to break down. The protective fatty layer of tissue also depletes, making skin much thinner and more fragile. This can cause skin to tear easily and also appear wrinkled or crepey, especially areas that have been exposed to the elements more frequently.

DerMend Fragile Skin Moisturizing Formula Cream provides targeted care to help restore thin, fragile skin with rejuvenating ingredients and enriching moisturizers. It retails for $29.99 for a 4.5 ounce tube.


You can find these DerMend Mature Skin Solutions products at CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and Meijer locations nationwide. You can also grab a coupon here while supplies last. If you or a loved one have concerns about aging skin, be sure to check out these resources full of valuable information. Also, be sure to "like" DerMend on Facebook for the latest product offerings and skin care tips.

Many thanks for DerMend for providing these products for review. As always, all opinions are mine.
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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.

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