My Empties

thermal spring water | hyaluronic acid | wrinkle reducing cream | cleansing balm | makeup remover

Ever since I started focusing on my skincare routine, I've been trying to hone in on products that I love, use over and over again, and produce tangible results. But it's a lot of trial and error to get to that point. This month was a combination of products that will consistently become part of my routine and a few that won't make it into the rotation.

Don't forget about Nordstrom's Beautycycle program. Nordstrom now accepts a variety of empty beauty containers that are often difficult or impossible to recycle through your local municipal recycling program. Look for containers in Nordstrom stores, and simply drop your empties in the boxes. Nordstrom works with a third-party vendor who cleans and recycles the containers, turning them into park benches, watering cans, and more.

So, now let's see what I used and loved (or didn't!) recently.

1. Avène Thermal Spring Water

As soon as I learned that you should apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin, I bought this water for spritzing my face prior to applying my hyaluronic acid. While you can use plain, old tap water to dampen your skin, this water had a fine mist that evenly coated my entire face and felt very refreshing. At less than $11 per bottle, it's a very reasonably priced indulgence that I will definitely purchase again.

2. The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid

Speaking of hyaluronic acid, I gave this one from The Inkey List a try, mostly because of its price point. At $9.99 for a 1.0 fl. oz. bottle, it's hard to beat. It wasn't bad, but it was slightly sticky, and I prefer a hyaluronic acid that's a bit thicker than this one. And I didn't love that it doesn't dispense via a dropper. It's a flip cap that pours into your palm. I prefer a dropper so that I can apply the product directly to my face and then spread it around. I'm most likely not going to purchase this again unless I'm in a pinch.

3. Kiehl's Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream

As far as a moisturizer, I loved this nutrient-rich cream. It left my skin completely hydrated without feeling heavy. As for its anti-aging properties, I can't say that I saw any significant reduction in my wrinkles and fine lines. I would definitely purchase this cream again for use as a nighttime moisturizer, but I know not to expect much in terms of anti-aging.

4. Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm

I am a devotee of Clinique's Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm, but when this cleansing balm from Elemis was half-priced at Ulta, I jumped at the chance to try it at that price point. I was disappointed. Elemis has such a great reputation, and I have friends and family who swear by their products. But this cleansing balm just didn't knock my socks off. I didn't like the thick and gooey consistency, and the scent wasn't strong, but it wasn't entirely nonexistent either. I'll be sticking with my tried and true favorite from Clinique.

5. Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover

This makeup remover has long been a part of my nightly skincare routine. I use it to mainly remove eye makeup. With just a few swipes of a cotton ball, this remover takes off stubborn mascara, eye shadow, and eye liner. Many eye makeup removers tend to be oil-based, it is what makes them effective. But this one doesn't leave an oily residue behind. It would take a really stellar remover to make me switch this one out of my routine.

Shop "My Empties" here:

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The Only Optimal Skincare Guide You'll Ever Need To Read

Did you know your skin is the largest organ on your body? It requires a lot of specialized attention. It covers our entire body from head to toe and is covered in hairs, except for our eyelids, palms and soles of our hands and feet and our lips. These hairs can alert us to how close we are to something or how close something is to us, and it helps to protect our skin.

There are many times where our skin needs a little more protection than our body hair can provide. For instance, sun protection. Our body hair is not enough to block out harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that come from our sun. And although our body hair can alert us to the presence of a bug, it does not keep us safe from getting bitten by mosquitoes, ticks and other biting bugs.

When you are looking for ways to care for the skin that protects your body, there is a lot to think about. That’s why we’re breaking down your skin so that you will have the only optimal skincare guide you will ever need. There’s some science involved, but once you embrace your uniqueness and make a few tweaks, you will be good to go.

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My Favorite Beauty Products For Rosacea

Lately, I've been getting a lot of compliments on my skin...which makes me very happy. I have struggled with controlling my rosacea which I've had for a little over 15 years. My dermatologist told me that I likely developed the condition during my pregnancy and while rosacea isn't curable, it is treatable. Since that time, I've been hyperaware of my skin condition and have diligently worked to keep it under control. I've tried both oral and topical prescription and over-the-counter medications and many different beauty products.

50% of the way my skin looks is about what I eat. The other 50% is about how I take care of my skin. In the end, I have found that altering my diet and using a combination of beauty products that help mask redness have been a successful combination.

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Revitalift™ Helps You Rewrite Your Skin Story #AskSkinExpert

This is a sponsored post for L’Oréal/Conde Nast.

In a few weeks, I'll be turning 48, and although I don't feel much older than 25, my skin is starting to tell another story. When you're young, you don't pay much attention to diligent skincare. We think we'll have taut, gorgeous skin forever. And then that first line or spot appears, and we immediately go into panic mode.

It wasn't until my mid-thirties that I started to consistently take care of my skin. I had been diagnosed with rosacea and implementing a skincare routine was essential to controlling the rosacea. I invested in a few decent skincare products and began cleansing and moisturizing every morning and evening.

I was a few years into my forties when I started to notice an increase in fine lines on my forehead, crow's feet, and around my lips. It was time to add an anti-aging cream or serum to my routine. But finding the one that's right for you can be overwhelming. The options seem to be endless. I've always loved L’Oréal products, so I started there. L’Oreal Paris, the skin experts can recommend a regime that's customized to your skincare concerns once you take the online consultation.

I was eager to take the online consultation and get my results once my answers were assessed. The experts at L’Oréal recommended two products that best addressed my skin issues and concerns (dryness, lack of volume, and wrinkles):

• Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Moisturizer
• Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Concentrated Serum

I used both products continuously and exclusively for 4 weeks as directed on the packages. Here are my results and honest opinions about the products.

Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Concentrated Serum

What I love about the serum is that it helps to replenish the natural fullness that young skin is known for. In addition to filling in lines and wrinkles, the serum also replenished skin volume to create a fuller look.

The Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Concentrated Serum contains Hyaluronic Acid to help boost skin's moisture retention, helping to give a more youthful appearance by improving skin's overall fullness. Although I didn't notice much in terms of decreased wrinkles, I did notice that the area around my eyes was fuller and less hollow and my cheeks were more rounded.

Fine lines on my forehead definitely faded, but the one deep wrinkle I have between my eyebrows didn't seem to improve.

Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Moisturizer

Once you hit your 40s, it's a good idea to start using a moisturizer that does double duty (moisturizes while fighting the signs of aging). The Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Moisturizer excelled at plumping and adding volume to my entire face as well as keeping it hydrated all day. Usually I can feel dryness beginning to set in during the late afternoon. But Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Moisturizer kept my face moisturized and smooth for close to 12 hours.

I noticed a decrease in my crow's feet and forehead lines as well as the fine lines that have begun to form around my upper lip. My skin also feels less thin.

The photo on the left is the "before" photo which was taken the day I began using Revitalift™ Volume Filler serum and moisturuzer. You can see lines on my forehead, a wrinkle between my eyebrows, and crow's feet.

The photo on the right was taken today, 4 weeks after I have been using both Revitalift™ Volume Filler products. There is definitely a decrease in fine lines on the forehead and around my eyes, but you can still see the deep wrinkle although it doesn't appear as pronounced in the after picture.

I haven't decided if I will continue to purchase the serum, but the Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Moisturizer will most certainly become a part of my daily beauty regimen. I was thrilled with the way it filled in my lines and gave me a fuller look overall, and I haven't found a moisturizer at a similar price point that hydrates as well as Revitalift™ Volume Filler Daily Re-Volumizing Moisturizer.

Get social with L’Oréal Paris:

• Facebook: @lorealparisusa
• Twitter: @LOrealParisUSA
• Pinterest: @lorealparisus
• Instagram: @lOrealusa
• YouTube: @lorealparisnyc

This is a sponsored post for L’Oréal/Conde Nast.

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Cetaphil Skin Care Gift Pack Giveaway

If you've been reading Pieces of a Mom for any amount of time, you've heard me talk about my bout with rosacea. I was diagnosed 12 years ago, a year after I had my first child. I started recognizing some symptoms during that first pregnancy, but blamed them on fluctuating hormones. Since my diagnosis, I've tried countless remedies from OTC products to prescription medications recommended by my dermatologist. I haven't had much luck with of any of the products I've tried.

But I have found a brand of products that are great for my sensitive skin and keep the redness at bay. Those products are Cetaphil products. Cetaphil makes gentle products that are designed for sensitive skin. Since I cleanse and moisturize each morning and evening, frequent use of harsh products often leaves my skin irritated and prone to drying. But Cetaphil products are gentle enough to use several times a day without the risk of irritation or aggravation to the rosacea.

For many of us sufferers, the impacts of rosacea go more than skin deep, with half of sufferers saying they feel unattractive, as well as embarrassed and less confident. I know I have felt this way on many occasions, but by using Cetaphil products consistently, I have alleviated many of my symptoms. 

My #nomakeup selfie

This summer I am partnering with Galderma Laboratories L.P. to invite rosacea sufferers - or those who think they might have the condition- to share a #nomakeup selfie of themselves and tell others how they stay confident even on "tough skin days." You simply upload your image and story via a social media outlet of your choice for the chance to win an all-expense paid trip for two to NYC for the New York Film Festival this fall. Be sure to tag it with the hashtag #nomakeup to be considered for voting.

Submissions must be in by June 24 and will be voted on during a sweepstakes from July 27 - Aug. 14. People who vote on the submissions, during the sweepstakes, will also have the chance to win additional prizes. All winners will be contacted in August.

WIN IT!
As part of this campaign, Galderma Laboratories L.P. is offering one lucky Pieces of a Mom reader the chance to win a Cetaphil gift pack. The gift pack includes the following products:

• Daily Facial Moisturizer, SPF 15 - 4  fl. oz.
• Eczema Moisturizing Body Wash - 10 fl. oz.
• Eczema Moisturizing Body Lotion - 10 fl. oz.
• Gentle Skin Cleanser - 16 fl. oz.
• Cetaphil Cleanser and a sample of Cleansing wipes - 10 cloths
• Mpow iSnap X selfie stick

Enter using the widget below.

Cetaphil Gift Pack

Disclosure: I’m participating in the Break Up with Your Makeup Campaign sponsored by Galderma Laboratories, L.P.

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Friday's Fresh Picks: Belli Skincare

Winter is officially here. I dread this time of year. The cold, dry air wreaks havoc on my skin. I always seem to be in search of facial moisturizers and body lotions that are effective at tackling dry skin and keeping my skin hydrated and silky smooth all day.

I received a sample of Belli stretch mark cream in a swag bag a few years ago at a blogging conference. At the time, I thought Belli was formulated only for expectant mothers. While Belli carefully screens all ingredients to avoid chemical, synthetic, and natural ingredients that have been linked to birth defects, Belli products are perfect for any woman, pregnant or not.

All Belli products are allergy tested and free of parabens, BPA, phthalates, and artificial dyes, making them safe for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and all women.

Pure & Pampered Body Wash (6.5 oz) $13
Beautifully cleanses skin without stripping it of its natural oils. This gentle and refreshing wash contains antioxidant rich cucumber and green extracts and lavender and chamomile extracts for a relaxing aromatherapy experience.

Healthy Glow Facial Hydrator (1.5 oz) $32
This has quickly become my go-to moisturizer for both day and night. It's light and refines and softens my skin texture as well as lightly illuminates it. It contains chamomile so it definitely helps to neutralize skin irritants and redness from rosacea.

Eye Brightening Cream (.5 oz) $39
This cream revives and illuminates tired eyes while minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. It contains Vitamin K which has been scientifically reported to reduce the appearance of dark circles. This cream cools and soothes on contacts and helps to reduce puffiness, making you look alive and well rested.

All Day Moisture Body Lotion (6.5 oz tube) $17
Apply this luxurious cream day and night to moisturize and comfort dry skin. It contains Vitamin E and chamomile to soothe and refresh and lemon oil for a fresh, uplifting scent.

Belli delivers pure pampering and peace of mind.

Friday Fresh Picks are hand-picked favorite items, reviews and highlights from the amazing women you see above.

Visit their websites to learn about other amazing picks from this week!

Sarah from Finnegan & The Hughes

Hilary from A Fancy Girl Must

Tina from Life Without Pink

Erica from No Sleep 'til College

To view all of my Friday Fresh Picks posts, click here.

Thanks to Belli for sending me the above mentioned products that have quickly become a few of my favorites.

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Best Beauty Buy: Sun Bum Suncare Products #BeautyBuzz

The winter travel season is just around the bend. If you are lucky enough to be jetting off to a tropical location, don't forget to pack the sunscreen.

Did you know...

• One in five Americans will get skin cancer in their lifetime.
• We can reduce the risk by 80% simply by regularly applying approved sunscreen products.
• Water and snow reflection can increase the potency of UV radiation by up to 50 percent.
• There are more diagnosed cases of skin cancer each year than of all other cancers combined.**

Two days ago, my family and I returned from an 11-day trip to Florida's west and east coasts. With 8 days spent in Captiva and 3 days in South Beach, sunscreen was an absolute must. From morning walks to lounging by the pool to frolicking on the beach, we were well protected with Sun Bum sunscreens and after-sun products.

We relied on an array of Sun Bum products while vacationing in the Florida sun. We hit the pool and beach armed with these four products that were sent to me to try.

SPF 70 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion - It's enriched with Vitamin E so it helps moisturize while it protects. It's also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is a big bonus when you've got kids who refuse to get out of the pool.

SPF 50 Continuous Spray Sunscreen - Nothing is more convenient than a spray sunscreen, especially when you've got little bodies that won't sit still long enough to lather on a lotion. This one is also water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it an ideal choice for kids.

SPF 30 Pink Grapefruit Lip Balm - Often ignored when in the sun, our lips need protection too. They can suffer from sunburns and premature aging just like any other part of our bodies. This pink grapefruit flavor is so delightful, you'll be applying it all day long.

'Cool Down' Hydrating After Sun Gel - It's just as important to care for your skin after sun exposure as it is during. Thanks to Sun Bum products, we had no sunburns during our vacation. But after full days at the beach and pool, this aloe-based gel was a welcome relief for our sun-kissed skin. I like to put it in the refrigerator to chill it. This way when you apply it, it's nice and soothing.

All Sun Bum sunscreens are tested, approved, and recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation. All the products are paraben-free, hypo-allergenic, and are never tested on animals. Most are gluten-free and vegan. 

But what about the scent? I loved the light tropical scent of Sun Bum products and was completely surprised to learn that they are fragrance free. It's natural aloe and cocoa butter that give the products their wonderful scent.

Got more questions? Check out Sun Bum's FAQs. They are awesomely fun!

So, here's the deal. You know I am a beauty products queen. I like to switch products often and try lots of different ones. But, I am sold on Sun Bum. I'll never use a different brand of sunscreen again. That, my friends, is huge.

When I agreed to try the products that were sent to me, I never imagined that I'd become a Sun Bum brand loyalist. They will always have a special place in my beach bag.

Want more information about Sun Bum? You can find them in all the right places.

Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | YouTube

Itching to buy a few products for your next getaway? Here ya go.

** Statistics appear courtesy of Sun Bum.

Disclosure: I was sent four Sun Bum products to try. I was not compensated for this post. As always, all opinions are strictly my own.

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Obiqo Shower Gel and Body Butter

Nothing jump starts my day more than an invigorating shower. It wakes me up and gives me that initial push I need to start the day.

And when I have the perfect bath and body products, it's even better! The right products can amp up your shower and rev your up.

Recently I was introduced to Obiqo, a sea-inspired skincare line created by Kiwi, Phillippa Fletcher. Obiqo combines nutrient-rich sea kelp straight from New Zealand's pristine waters with the fines Europen anti-aging extracts and powerful anti-oxidants of French organic sea lavender. This powerful combination creates a range of products that feed your skin and your soul.

In addition to several different types of facial creams, serums, cleansers and scrubs, Obiqo has a line of bath and body products. Since my facial skin is very sensitive, I chose to receive the Body Wash and Body Butter Duo, a delicious combination that will leave your body feeling fresh, clean, and silky soft.

The very first thing I noticed about the Obiqo body wash was its glorious scent. Its combination of sea lavender, chamomile, and cucumber is light and refreshing. It leaves a clean, no-film feeling on your skin.

After drying off, I applied the body butter. It goes on smoothly and is thick but not so much so that you feel as if it's layered on your skin. In the evenings before I go to bed, I can still feel the body butter on my skin. There was no need for me to reapply it before bed. It deeply moisturizes and lasts the entire day. It has a very light, pleasant scent.

Overall consensus: I loved both of these products. Their effectiveness combined with the top-notch sea-extract ingredients are a winning combo of luxury for your skin at a price tag that's more than reasonable.

WIN IT!

Obiqo is offering one lucky Pieces of a Mom reader the opportunity to win a Body Wash and Body Butter Duo (total value $37).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Receive special offers and stay-up-to-date on the latest Obiqo news by signing up for the newsletter.

For more of the best in beauty this week, be sure to check out #BeautyBuzz hosted by Momtrends, Mama in Heels, Sassy Moms in the City and Jo-Lynne Shane! Don't miss it for the best beauty products, beauty secrets, and fabulous beauty giveaways.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary Obiqo Body Wash and Body Butter Duo to facilitate this review. No further compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

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Cetaphil Skin Care Package Giveaway *CLOSED*

If you've been hanging around here for any amount of time, you've heard me talk about my bout with rosacea. Long story short...I was diagnosed 11 years ago. I've tried countless remedies from OTC products to prescription medications recommended by my dermatologist. I haven't had much luck with of any of the products I've tried.

But I have found a brand of products that are great for my sensitive skin and keep the redness at bay. Those products are Cetaphil products. Cetaphil makes gentle products that are designed for sensitive skin. Since I cleanse and moisturize each morning and evening, frequent use of harsh products often leaves my skin irritated and prone to drying. But Cetaphil products are gentle enough to use several times a day without risking irritation and further redness.

WIN IT!

Because I am such a fan of Cetaphil, I am offering one lucky reader a chance to win a Cetaphil skin care package. The package includes the follow products:

• Gentle Skin Cleanser - 16 fl. oz.
• Daily Facial Moisturizer - 4 fl. oz.
• Skin Restoring Body Wash - 10 fl. oz.
• Skin Restoring Moisturizer - 10 fl. oz.
• Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths - 25 towelettes

These are full-sized products, not samples and are designed for all skin types. I've been using the cleansing cloths at night prior to cleansing to remove makeup and dirt. They are soft and have a light, fresh scent. They don't leave behind a stinging feeling as many other cleansing cloths do for me. I've been following up the cleansing cloths with the gentle cleanser and the facial moisturizer.

HOW TO ENTER:

It's super simple. To be eligible to win, enter your email address below to win a trip to the Emmy Awards in Los Angeles. Come back and leave a comment on this blog post to tell me that you have entered your email address. Note: at the close of the contest, I will verify email addresses against comments to confirm that you have followed the entry requirements. If you did not enter your email address but left a comment, you will be disqualified from winning.

One winner will be chosen using Random.org on August 1st at 9:00 am ET. Good luck! Winner must have a US shipping address.

Disclosure: Galderma Labs provided me with a Cetaphil skincare package and one to give away. All opinions are my own.

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Break Up With Your Makeup and Win a Trip to LA to See the Emmys!

Disclosure: I’m participating in the Break Up with Your Makeup Blogger Contest Sponsored by Galderma Laboratories, L.P. 

I was diagnosed with rosacea 11 years ago, just one year after having my first child. Since that time, I have tried several prescription and over the counter medications, but nothing has seemed to help ease the redness.

From oral medications to topical ones, I've tried everything. I've spent countless dollars on makeup, mainly concealers, that I use to mask the redness. But by the end of the day, the makeup wears off and I am left with red cheeks and a rosy nose.

Rosacea often affects my self confidence and makes me painfully aware of the redness. I see other women my age with porcelain skin, and I am, undoubtedly, envious.

I was excited to recently learn that Mirvaso, the only FDA-approved treatment for the persistent redness of rosacea, is hosting a sweepstakes to raise awareness of the treatment, encouraging people to Break Up with Your Makeup.  Mirvaso works fast, providing same-day results that last up to 12 hours before the redness returns, leaving users red-carpet ready!

I am looking forward to working with my dermatologist to test out Mirvaso on my own rosacea. I've tried to head off triggers. I've even tried a gluten-free diet to see if that helped ease my redness. But so far, I've had no luck with any proposed remedies.

If you have rosacea or know someone who does, you can get more information about Mirvaso, and you can enter to win a trip to the Emmys in Los Angeles. The Emmys!!! Oh, how I'd love a trip to LA to see the Emmy Awards!!

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{Product Review} Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30

Remember the days of the little Coppertone girl? The puppy tugging endearingly at her bathing suit bottoms revealing a pasty white bottom?

In case you missed the memo, those days are gone. In fact, Child Services might be on your tail if your child is caught with a sunburn these days.

Adult or child, sun protection is a must. There's just no disputing it. If you will be stepping out into the sun, you should be wearing some sort of protection.

Living near the coast, my family spends a lot of time at either the beach or the pool during the summer months. I need a sunscreen that will stand up to a full day of pool or beach time. It needs to be super effective, and it needs to be safe.

I was invited to try Babo Botanicals new 30 SPF Clear Zinc Sunscreen. Babo has recently added the clear zinc sunscreen to its line of "parent quality" suncare products. I was sent a 3 fl. oz. tube to put to the test.

The 2 factors that I look for most in a sunscreen are effective ingredients and safe ingredients. Babo's line of sunscreens offer both. Zinc oxide is a safe, all-natural mineral that will not irritate the skin and is more likely to block harmful UVB and UVA rays.

You may remember zinc oxide as the thick white paste seen on lifeguards at the beach and pool. You could hardly miss it. Thick white streaks down the center of the nose. Hardly attractive.

Memorial Day weekend offered us the perfect chance to give Babo Botanicals a whirl. We headed for the pool and lathered up. I liked that it was easy to rub in. It wasn't greasy or too thick. And it didn't have a strong scent, which many sunscreens do.

Babo's zinc oxide is unique in that it's completely clear. It's non-nanotechnology formulation doesn't penetrate the skin and dissolves quickly so that there is no white gunk to rub in.

PROS

• Non-greasy and easy to rub in.
• Hypo-allergenic, gluten-free, PABA-free, and paragen-free.
• Contains organic jojoba to moisturize and protect children's skin from toxic chemicals and sun damage.
• Goes on white, but rubs in clear.
• Doesn't contain harsh chemicals that can burn eyes or irritate the skin.

CONS

• It's a bit expensive at $18.95 for a 3 fl. oz. tube. But when you look at the benefits, it's worth the extra cost.

You can find more information at www.babobotanicals.com or on the Facebook page. To find a retailer near you, visit the web site. Online purchasing can also be made through www.drugstore.com and www.dermstore.com.

Disclosure: I was given a complimentary 3 fl. oz. tube of Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Oxide sunscreen to facilitate this review. I was not compensated monetarily. All opinions are my own.

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Spring Beauty Must-Have: BB Cream

In the entire history of makeup and beauty products, why did it take so long to develop BB creams? They are amazing. Four functions. One cream. I've been waiting for a product like this since I was diagnosed with rosacea 10 years ago.

What is a BB cream and what exactly does BB stand for anyway?

For starters, BB stands for beauty balm. BB creams are all-in-one facial products that are intended to replace moisturizer, sunscreen, foundation and serum. Most brands offer different shades so it can be worn alone or as a tinted moisturizer. It can alos be worn over moisturizers and serums as a foundation.

Since I had been using so many products to mask my rosacea, I immediately jumped on the BB cream band wagon in the hopes of eliminating at least one or two products in my routine.

From the first time I used a BB cream, I loved it.

As a rosacea sufferer, sunblock is part of my daily skincare routine no matter what the season.  Having it built into my moisturizer saves me about 5 minutes.

I also love having some added color so that I don't have to pour on the foundation and the pressed powder. The added coverage helps to conceal my rosacea so that I can use less foundation. The best part is that on the weekends or when I am working from home, a BB cream alone is sufficient without any other makeup.

BB creams range in price depending on the brand. Some start at around $6 and can top out at $60. The more expensive creams typically include anti-wrinkle capabilities and higher levels of SPF. Plus, you are paying for the high-end brand name.

My favorite BB cream is Garnier's Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream. It is thick but loosens up once applied to the skin. It's available in 2 shades and has an SPF of 15. It has great coverage and is long lasting. It's a bit oily and has a somewhat strong scent, but I wasn't bothered enough by either of those features to stop using it.

Garnier BB cream is a great value for the money at $11 for a 2.5 fl. oz. tube.

Tips for getting the most mileage out of your BB cream:
1. Apply, using fingers, to problem areas first and allow the BB cream to seep into the pores.

2. Apply to the rest of the face and allow 10-20 minutes for absorption before applying makeup.

3. If your skin is very dry, it may be necessary to apply a moisturizer before applying the BB cream.

When used correctly, BB creams are all-in-one miracle creams for even the toughest of skin problems.

Are you using a BB cream?

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{Product Review) Beautify DermaSmooth Moisturizing Creme

If you do nothing else for you skin, you should, at the minimum, be applying moisturizer twice daily. Moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated and protects it against natural and environmental toxins.

But finding the perfect moisturizer for your skin can be quite a challenge. I've tried many, many brands, types, kinds of moisturizers in my day. Some I have loved, and others have gone straight into the trash or I've given them to one of my sisters.

My opinion of a moisturizer is cut and dried. I either love it or I hate it. There is no gray area.

I was offered a chance to try Beautify DermaSmooth Moisturizing Creme as part of my participation on Spa Week's Hot Mom Squad. Beautify, an an exclusive sponsor of Spa Week, wants women to look and feel their best.

I was instructed to use Beautify in small amounts as it is concentrated. I decided to use it in the mornings as part of my pre-make up moisturizing routine and at night after cleansing. Upon opening the jar, I was surprised by the orange color of the moisturizer. I was expecting a light colored moisturizer since so many are white. It has a nice light, citrusy scent that lingers on your skin.

Once applied, my skin felt very soft. Beautify DermaSmooth creme seeped into my skin immediately. Although it did leave behind a slight sticky feeling, Beautify was very effective at moisturizing my problem areas such as my forehead and temple areas. Once I applied my makeup, the sticky feeling was gone. The blend of clinically-proven active ingredients combined with anti-oxidants makes Beautify the perfect moisturizer to help combat anti-aging.

As a woman over 40, I prefer a moisturizer that has anti-aging capabilities. Beautify contains 2 of the best peptides for growing collagen and smoothing wrinkles. Therefore, it reduces the overall appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

As a greenie, I loved that Beautify contains only natural ingredients. Studies show that skin responds better to natural ingredients than to synthetic ones. So why are so many skin care companies still using synthetic ingredients and expecting favorable results? Beautify contains no parabens or carcinogens.

In addition to various moisturizers, Beautify also makes cleansers, toners, and masks for all skin types. To view the entire product line and for more information about Beautify or to order products, visit the Web site. The Beautify DermaSmooth Moisturizer Creme retails for $170.00 for a 30ML jar.

You can also find Beautify on Facebook to stay up-to-date on all the latest product offerings and innovations.

SpaWeek is offering several giveaways of the Beautify products. You could even win a yearly supply delivered right to your door each month! Awesome! Visit SpaWeek to enter.

Disclosure: As a member of Spa Week's Hot Mom Squad, I received a complimentary jar of Beautify Moisturizing Creme to facilitate this review. I did not receive monetary compensation to write this review. All opinions are my own and are based on product use over a 3 week period.

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My Adventures in Gluten-Free Eating

If you've been hanging around this little ol' blog for some time, you are well aware of my constant struggle with rosacea.

Since being diagnosed almost 10 years ago, I've tried everything to ease the redness. Prescription meds, OTC creams, cleansers, gels. You name it. I've tried it.

I've kept detailed food and beauty journals, chronicling everything from what I ate and drank to what products I applied to my face. I've eliminated common triggers such as spicy foods, red wine, tomato sauce, and caffeine.

I've followed all the advice of my dermatologist, but to no avail. Ten years later, and my redness is still prevalent. It's incredibly frustrating still having to deal with this after 10 years of putting so much effort into trying to control it.

Finally, I decided to take matters into my own hands and do some research on my own. I scoured the Internet for everything I could find about a possible link between gluten and rosacea. I discovered that gluten is often a culprit for aggravating rosacea and causing flareups. While there isn't much scientific proof to back this up, there have been plenty of people who have eliminated gluten from their diets and have had success with calming and controlling their rosacea.

It has never been easier to eliminate gluten from our diets. Many restaurants cater to the gluten-free population, and there's a wide variety of gluten-free products available that are suitable substitutes for their gluten counterparts.

I decided to do a gluten-free eating experiment. I am going gluten-free for 2-3 weeks to see if it makes any difference in my face. I have read that protein in gluten can linger in your body for months after you've gone gluten-free. I'm not sure how much of a difference 2-3 weeks will make, but I'm willing to give it a try.

I've been gluten-free for 5 days now. And I must say that apart from my face, I am feeling better in other ways that I hadn't expected. My stomach is flatter, and I don't feel bloated after every meal. I don't get that "stuffed" feeling after I eat. And since I haven't invested any money in gluten-free foods such as cookies or pretzels, I haven't been snacking as much. I've been eating veggies, fruits, meats, and nuts at every meal. I feel lighter. I know that sounds ridiculous, but to those who are gluten-free, it makes complete sense.

We went out to dinner on Friday night, and I felt great when I got up from the table to leave. Meanwhile, everyone else in the family was complaining about how stuffed they were. Hmm. Could it have been all the pre-dinner bread that they ate and the pizza that followed it? Quite possibly.

I don't know if I will find this diet to be helpful to my rosacea, but I do know that I like the way that I am feeling and am anxious to see how I feel and how my face looks at the end of the 3 weeks.

Stay tuned for progress reports.

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The Best Beauty Products All In One Place at BeautySak.com

I love beauty products. So much so that I've been known to hoard collect a few. We all have our vices, right?

Last week while searching for a particular product online, I came across BeautySak.com, a site dedicated to offering the absolute best selection of nail care, hair care, skin care, beauty products and more. Now, we're talking!

It was love at first click!

When I first visited BeautySak.com I thought it was going to be just another site with beauty products that can be found pretty much anywhere. But when I saw the selection of brands, I was completely blown away. Wow! Brands that are otherwise reserved for the finest department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue are available at BeautySak.com and at unbeatable prices!

So, what exactly was I looking for when I happened upon BeautySak.com? I was in search of a Deborah Lippmann nail polish item. I originally bought the product from a home shopping channel which no longer carries the product. I tried my local beauty supply store, but nothing. After looking at a few other popular beauty sites without luck, I found BeautySak.com and kept my fingers crossed.

Sure enough, BeautySak.com had the product as well as many others by Deborah Lippmann. The best part is nail polish was almost less expensive I previously paid for it. Score! I added it to my cart and spent some more time browsing the site.

With brands such as Calypso St. Barth, Phyto, Peter Thomas Roth, Molton Brown, and Oscar Blandi, BeautySak.com offers one-stop shopping for all of your luxury brand needs. BeautySak.com doesn't cater to just the ladies. It offers a full range of products for men as well including facial cleansers, moisturizers, travel kits, cologne, and more.

The great selection of products isn't the only thing BeautySak.com does well. It also:

• offers free shipping on orders over $50 all the time. 
• provides knowledgeable consultants who are available to assist you with questions around the clock.
• prides itself on maintaining an above industry inventory fill rate of 99%. That means that the product you want is in the warehouse 99% of the time. No back ordering. No waiting. No emails notifying you when the product will be available.
• throws in some free product samples with every shipment. Yay!

The next time you need a replacement for your moisturizer, cleanser or even that luxurious scented candle on your nightstand, be sure to check out BeautySak.com.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.

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{Product Review} L’Oréal RevitaLift® Miracle Blur Finishing Cream

L’Oréal's latest addition to its Revitalift® product line is Miracle Blur, an instant skin smoother finishing cream that promises to erase the look of wrinkles, lines and pores. {Retail value $24.99}

By using "Opti-Blur" technology, Miracle Blur diffuses light on the skin for a soft-focus blurring effect. It promises to fill in pores and fine lines to create a smooth, flawless look. As an added bonus, Miracle Blur contains a broad spectrum SPF 30 for protection from the sun's harmful rays.

I was excited to try Miracle Blur. As a sufferer of rosacea and a forty-something with a few fine lines and wrinkles, I was ready to put Miracle Blur to the test. Before I started using Miracle Blur, I read the box. Once I saw the words "instant gratification", I was ready to apply it!

Rosacea can be very frustrating as it is not curable, but it is treatable. Some days my skin looks flawless, and other days not so much. It's difficult to manage unexpected triggers which cause flareups. I had high hopes that Miracle Blur would come to the rescue on days when my rosacea was not being cooperative.

L’Oréal Revitalift® Miracle Blur

WHAT I LOVED

• It was thick without being sticky.
• It offers great coverage without having to use more than a dime-sized amount.
• It gave my skin a smooth, silky feeling.
• It diminished the appearance of pores.
• It helped to reduce some of the redness that results from rosacea, but I still had to apply concealer and a small amount of foundation.
• It is fragrance-free.

WHAT I DIDN'T LOVE

• I didn't notice a significant difference in the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles.
• I didn't get the instant gratification that was promised. Results weren't instant, but the box promises further results after 4 weeks of use.
• All the active ingredients are sunscreens. There were no active ingredients that actually target wrinkles or redness.
• Directions for use are for the product to be used as a sunscreen rather than as a finishing cream.
• It was a little pricey for what it offers. It's basically a $25 sunscreen.

Overall, this was a disappointing product from a valued name in skin care. I have used other products from the Revitalift® product line and have been very pleased with the results. But the Miracle Blur did not meet my expectations.

I certainly will not discourage anyone from trying Miracle Blur (all skincare products work differently on different skin types after all). Others may find the product to be effective. I will continue to use the product to see if my goal results are achieved after 4 weeks (as promised on the box). If they are not, I'll move on to the next big thing.

A few of my fellow bloggers have reviewed Miracle Blur as well. See what they've got to say.

Deborah and JoJami at Fabulous After 40

Erica at No Sleep 'Til College

Heather at Girl Gone Mom

Rita at Yippy Momma

Beth at Life in the BAT Cave

Disclosure: I received a complimentary 1.18 fl. oz. tube of Miracle Blur to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

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I'm Guest Posting at Fabulous After 40

After having recently celebrated a birthday, I have a heightened awareness of my aging skin. My wrinkles are suddenly magnified in the mirror. What used to appear as a fine line, now looks like a dried up river. I'm sure I'm exaggerating a bit. We are our worst enemies after all.

But still...

I'm on the lookout for a breakthrough skin care system. One that will refresh and renew my skin. When I was invited to do a guest review for Fabulous After 40, I jumped at the offer. Deborah and JoJami are The Glam Gals behind Fabulous After 40, and they are all about looking fabulous and flaunting it! They kindly asked if I would be test the Nuvosa Anti-Aging Skincare Regimen. I couldn't wait to see some results. And fast.

Hop on over to Fabulous After 40 to read my review. This might be the product for you!

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#f2fphilly Event with Therapon Skin Health

On Saturday I headed out to my old stomping grounds in the western suburbs of Philly to attend a skincare/spa event sponsored by Therapon Skin Health at the Desmond Hotel in Malvern, PA. If you recall, I've been using Therapon's Theraderm Skin Renewal System for about 6 months now and with great success. You can see my original product review post here.


It was an afternoon of pampering that started with a much needed manicure by Spring Nails. It had been a while since my last professional manicure. I was a bit of a trendsetter that afternoon. I chose Essie's "Smokin' Hot" for my nails, and it was a big hit with many of the other women in attendance. My manicure was followed by an upper back and neck massage. Timing couldn't have been better. The evening prior, I threw my upper back out. I felt so much more relaxed after the massage.

After my massage, it was time for my facial. Christina Stumbaugh, the social media marketing manager for Therapon attended the event and was on hand to give facials. Christina used the Therapon products that I use on a daily basis for our facials, but oh my goodness, it was so luxurious to have someone else do this for me.

Of course, every facial should be followed up with a professional make-up application. Ulta Beauty. I loved the natural makeup that my makeup artist used. She gave me some tips on products to use to get that dewy look.

After everyone was pampered and primped, we posed for a group shot. Don't we look lovely?

One of the aspects I love most about these events is connecting with other women. This was a small, intimate group, and it was the perfect setting for sharing. We talked about our respective skin dilemmas, our nails and the nail polishes we like, our blogs, and just general girl-chat. And I was finally able to meet Christina. We've emailed, tweeted, and Facebook-ed for months. So fun to finally meet her IRL!

Every great event includes some great swag!

These fabulous Lands' End tote bags were filled with goodies from Therapon Skin Health, Lunch Skins, Payless Shoes, Happy Baby, Heartwork Organizing, Dawgs Bendables, and Divalicious Chocolate Dessert.

Many thanks to Jo-Lynne and Christina for being gracious hostesses!

Disclosure: I received complimentary services at this event. I received no monetary compensation, and was in no way obligated to write this post.

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Theraderm Skin Renewal System - Product Review

I never worried about my skin as a teenager or in my 20's. I didn't suffer from acne. I didn't have oily, dry, or sensitive skin. Until...

Until I became pregnant in my early 30's. You know that glowing skin that everyone talks about? Yep, I didn't have it. I wasn't even close. My skin became red, blotchy, and dull. I thought that maybe it was a first trimester thing. But well into my second trimester, my skin was still red, blotchy, and dull. I chalked it up to pregnancy and hormones.

Once my beautiful daughter was born, I waited patiently for my pristine skin to return. A year after her birth, my skin showed no signs of improvement. In fact, it was worse; more red and more blotchy than during my pregnancy. Plus, I was experiencing strange flare ups from foods that I would eat. I decided to seek the advice of a dermatologist.

On my daughter's first birthday, I was diagnosed with rosacea, a treatable but incurable facial skin disorder. I was prescribed an oral anti-inflammatory and a topical cream, both of which were indicated to treat the redness, bumps, and blemishes that are a result of rosacea. When that combination was unsuccessful, I was prescribed a cleanser which contained sulfur, an ingredient shown to reduce redness in rosacea sufferers. After years of using the above 3 prescriptions with little success, I decided to discontinue using all of them and try alternative treatments and products.

Finally, a few months ago, I learned of Therapon, a skin-care company that is dedicated to providing simple solutions to complex problems by creating products that effectively restore youthful-looking skin.

Therapon stands behind each and every one of its products and promises that each product will outperform any other product in its class. In addition to standing behind the products, Therapon does not test on animals.


After hearing testimonials from several bloggers as well as reading those online, I eagerly contacted Therapon. Based on my skin history, I was sent Therapon's Theraderm Skin Renewal System, a simple, daily regimen consisting of four products that work harmoniously to restore a healthy, radiant appearance no matter your age. I like to call it the uncomplicated skincare regime for complicated skin.


The Theraderm Skin Renewal System includes the following components:

• Cleansing Wash
• Fruit Acid Exfoliant
• OPC Reparative Gel
• Choice of: Enriched Facial Moisturizer,Gentle Facial Moisturizer, or Peptide Hydrator (I used the Peptide Hydrator)
• Gentle Action Application Pads (for use with the Fruit Acid Exfoliant)

The cost of the Skin Renewal System is around $140. I challenge you to find comparable products anywhere. I've used many, many products over the years. Trust me, there is nothing like the Skin Renewal System on the market.

*If you are a woman on the go, the Skin Renewal System is available in a convenient travel size.

Initially, I was worried that the number of products would be overwhelming for me. But quite honestly, every morning and evening, I cleanse and moisturize. So adding 2 more steps was really no big deal. The products and steps were clearly explained.

Here is a "before' picture of me. You can see the redness around the middle of my face, especially my nose. cheeks, and chin. This picture was taken after my evening cleansing and moisturizing on the evening before I began using the Theraderm Skin Renewal System.

After a week of using the system twice a day, I saw measurable results. The redness had faded slightly, and the texture of my skin was smoother.

After a month of using the system, I was able to forgo concealer and foundation on most occasions. There were still days when external triggers (spicy foods, sun, wind) forced me to wear makeup. You have no idea how pleased with the results I was. It had been 8 years since I had skin that wasn't bright red. I tried every makeup imaginable to cover up the redness, and after an hour or so, it was as if I had never applied makeup. The redness appeared and with a vengeance.

At the beginning of November, I met my sister in New York City for the day. She hadn't seen me since I began using the Theraderm Skin Renewal System. She immediately noticed and commented on my skin. The redness was diminished. My skin tone was more even. There were no longer bumps and blemishes on my chin and cheeks.

Look at the results after using the system for 3 months! No concealer! No foundation!

I am so happy with my skin. What a difference the Theraderm Skin Renewal System has made in my appearance.

Not only are the rosacea symptoms under control, but the Theraderm Skin Renewal System has also helped to diminish the fine lines around my eyes. It's no secret that our skin undergoes major changes as we age. I love that the Skin Renewal System is recommended for all ages. As I am now in my early 40's, I need products that I don't need to change out each year. I want products that I know work and that I can consistently use over the years.

I am so happy that I am no longer hiding behind makeup. My skin now has that glow that I've wanted ever since my first pregnancy.

The Skin Renewal System requires diligence. You must be committed to following through with the daily and evening routine in order to see quality results. This system will not work if you don't follow the directions for use. It cannot be used every other day. It must be performed twice a day. After a few applications, the system quickly and easily became part of my daily routine. And in the end, every second of effort was worth the remarkable results!

I am astounded by the difference.

Be sure to check out Therapon on the Web, on Facebook, and on Twitter. 

Disclosure: I received a complimentary Theraderm Skin Renewal System to facilitate this review. All opinions expressed herein are solely mine and are based on my use of the featured product and were in no way influenced by Therapon.

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