Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Review: InstaNatural Round 3


*this post contains affiliate links*


Cellulite Cream
I love love love this! The way it tightens the skin, and leaves it soft and smooth. Nor is it sticky! It's amazing. There is a very very light scent to it. Only a little bit is needed, it really goes a long way! I use it in the morning, and at night. I can seriously see a difference! I am in love! 

Vitamin C Facial Toner
I don't know If I got a bad bottle, but given my history with InstaNatural I will give them the benefit of the dobut here. I couldn't even use this. It smelled like moldy, hyalournic acid. I got so sick after smelling this, and even threw up. I am saddened, I have heard good things about this, and really wanted to love it. 

Strech Mark Cream
I don't know If I got a bad bottle, but given my history with InstaNatural I will give them the benefit of the dobut here. I couldn't even use this. It smelled like moldy, hyalournic acid. I got so sick after smelling this, and even threw up. I am saddened, I have heard good things about this, and really wanted to love it. 


Want to Purchase?



XoXO
Lyn

*Complementary product received for review*

Review: InstaNatural Round 2.


*this post contains affiliate links*

First product is...


 Seaweed powder. So, I have to be totally honest. I like seaweed, I even like the smell of seaweed. This, was just too much though. Not only that, but I could never get it to a consistency that worked for me. I did try to use it as a body wrap. It felt amazing, my skin was so soft and smooth afterwards. I felt better, even. I think if I could better the consistency it would be better, maybe clearer directions! They do say it can get messy, so standing in the bathtub is a good idea. I mixed it in a plastic cup with plastic spoon, so I could easily throw it out. Fair warning: Your garbage can will smell like seaweed if you leave any in the cup! Also, this container is VERY LARGE! I did not realize it, but it is! This will last you so long!


Argan Oil Hair Treatment.
I love this actually, I leave it in my hair for about an hour or so. Than wash it out. My hair is left silky, shiny, and smooth. This does not have the artificial smell that a lot do. Pure argan oil does not have a pleasant smell, but that does not bother me. This is also good for your cuticles! I have used it for that purpose as well. Just let it soak on your hands for 5minutes, than wash off with a mild soap and warm water. your cuticles are soft, and easily ready to push back!

Moroccan Rose Water Toner.
This toner is nice. It does not have a nasty smell, nor is it drying. I find that some of my toners have actually dried out my face, and this does not. It feels very refreshing, and moisturizing. My pores look smaller, and my face looks more even and cleaner since using this. It is not my go to toner , but makes for a nice back up.


Want to purchase?



XoXo
Lyn

*complementary product received for review*

Review: InstaNatural Round 1.

*This post contains affiliate links*

Yay, More InstaNatural products! 


First up! The Dead Sea Mud Mask
As you can see you get a generous amount. It smells like mud too!  When I first applied this, I wasn't too sure how much you needed, if I had to mix it together, how well it dried. Well you really don't need that much. Just enough for a very thin layer on your face. It dries quite fast, and washes off very easy. Nothing to measure and mix. The mask it self, does feel slightly itchy when you have it on, and momentary after washing it off. It leaves your face feeling, soft, smooth, and even coloring. I use this, while Im 
relaxing in the bathtub. So, I can just easily wash off.  Just apply my favorite moisturizer afterwards, and enjoy the smooth feeling all day! I use this as recommended once a week. I think if you used it more, it might dry out your face. 


The next item is their Argan oil hair mask! 
It is a very light, fluffy, whipped texture. It smells like an Orange Creamsicle.  I seriously at there for five minutes just smelling it.  The directions say use on wet just washed hair, and then rinse out. Ive done it that way, and using it prewash, on dry hair. Both ways, makes my hair feel smooth, look shiny, and gorgeous. I am 5'3 and my hair is past my butt. I seriously, only needed maybe the size of a regular spoonful. If that, a little really does go a long way with this product. I usually only apply it to the ends of my hair, as my hair stylist mentioned that is really the only place argan oil is needed. Though, If i want some shine and moisture all over I will coat all of my hair with it.  Really the choice is yours. 



100% Pure Emu Oil.
Honestly, I had never in my life, heard of Emu oil before. So, I was kinda leery to try it. It does not smell bad, it is not greasy, sticky, or very thick. Though, I do find I don't really use it that often in the month I have had it, I find nothing really special about it. That's just me though. It does help fade scars, which is what I used it for. I did not notice anything as far as pain relief. I think this is just one of those things, that I would use if it was the only thing I had, but I wouldn't go out of my way to buy it. 


Hyalournic Acid.
Whelp, I have since stopped using this all together. Any brand, it makes my cystic acne worse. I don't know what it is, but it happens with all of them.  However, this one is the same as any other. With this I find, go for the cheapest one, they're really almost all the same. The one thing InstaNatural does is promote vegan serums. Their emu oil obviously isn't, but this is! so, + InstaNatural!


Want to purchase any of these?





XoXo
Lyn


*Complementary Product received for Review.*


Review: Franklin's Gourmet Popcorn

So, we are huge popcorn fiends in my family! In fact it is 9am, and I am eating popcorn! Franklins Gourmet Popcorn Does not disappoint! They are a small family owned business based out of Seattle, WA. (Supporting the home state!) They come in prepackaged, proportioned packages. Everything you need to make delicious popcorn comes together. They are sold exclusively through amazon.

They have different size packages you can purchase from 2oz all the way to 12oz each one comes with 24 packages., I received the 6oz one for review. 14lbs of popcorn later...

Amazon Stock Image



So, directions are easy. You can use a popper, or a regular pot. Since, I do not have a popper, I used a pot on the stove. I tried two different size pots, I found the bigger one to be better for this size package. Now, the directions say to cut open and add everything. I did do this, the first time I made it. However, I have found, that the oil which looks to be liquid in their pictures. Is solid when it arrives, so the best way to do it, is to let the oil melt, then add the popcorn kernels and seasoning salt. I did make one batch with the salt added after it was popped, and found it made no difference.  The one negative I can say, is I wish there was more oil, I noticed that the popcorn first popped is more coated with flavor than at the bottom, of course.Then, there is clumpy bits on the bottom of my pan. (Super easy to clean up)  What I did, when adding the kernels and salt was shake my pot so they were all coated with oil.  This seems to help a little. As far as popping goes. There is WAY, and I mean WAY less unpopped kernals than I normally have! HUGE bonus there!
The residue left in the pot

As far as flavor hands down the best. Now, would I say its a match for movie theater? Not quite, but, I do believe thats because I was making it in a pot, and Franklins contains natural products, and not a bunch of over processed whatever that is, they sell at the theater. I actually prefer Franklins over theater popcorn. Its buttery, without being saturated and gross. Light and fluffy, even tastes better the next day too! Now, apparently I must like really salty popcorn, because I made it and my dad said it was too salty, I do add extra popcorn salt. If I do not add that, he thinks its just the right amount of saltiness, which is great for those that dont like salty popcorn. You can always add, but you cant take away!
I couldn't get a picture, before half of it was eaten!




Purchase Here:
                                                                   

Overall. I can't say enough great things about Franklin's Gourmet Popcorn! This is now my go to popcorn!


XoXo,
Lyn




Sunday, December 28, 2014

Review: Sieva’s Hyalournic Acid Serum

Whelp, As you know me and Hyalournic Acid don't get along. Aside from the breakouts. The rest of my face looks fantastic! I will say that, there is no weird smell, sticky residue, greasy feeling, or film left on my face.  The bottle is gorgeous as well..


Amazon Product Info: 
Who doesn't want to look radiant and younger? Bring luxury and a healthy-looking glow to your face.
Sieva's Pure Vegan Hyaluronic Face Glow Serum is a new generation of lightweight & deeply hydrating anti-aging solutions for a beautifully radiant and youthful complexion.
Sieva's Hyaluronic Face Glow Serum is an advanced hydrating moisturizer that contains powerful ingredients to deliver results:
-Vitamin A - improves skin texture and promotes collagen formation to reduce wrinkles and age spots. 
-Vitamin C - Powerful antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals to reverse damage caused by the sun, pollutants, and cigarette smoke 
-Vitamin D - conditions and moisturizes your skin and promotes rapid cell growth. 
-Vitamin E - Quell dryness by helping skin retain its natural moisturizers. 
What it is formulated to do:
-Increases skin hydration up to 90%
-Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
-Calms and soothes irritated skin
-Boost collagen and firmer skin
-Helps skin retain moisture
-Helps leave skin feeling supple, soft and smooth
-Made in the USA in a cruelty free, FDA registered and GMP compliant facility
90-day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee! If you're not completely satisfied, you can keep the bottle (it's on us) AND get a full refund. No questions asked.
Click the 'Add to Cart' button at the top of this page NOW and Pamper yourself with beautiful skin that looks fabulous and feels wonderful.
NOTE: There has been a large quantity of low quality Hyaluronic acid serums flooding the market. Other imitation of Hyaluronic Acid does not have the same potency and proven results, and can be damaging to your skin.


Purchase Here:



XoXo
Lyn
*complementary product received for review*

Review: Syono Gel Insoles

As someone who works in a busy doctors office. I don't really care to spend 100s of dollars on nursing shoes, that quite frankly I find ugly, and uncomfortable. So regular tennis shoes it is, even then with really supportive tennis shoes, my feet still hurt by the end of the day. So having these was a bit of a blessing. I wear size 8 in tennis shoes, and they fit in them pretty well. I did have to trim them just a tad. the only thing is I wish they were slightly wider, maybe about 1/2inch. For someone who has wide feet they didn't fit all the way that way. But, it wasn't enough to make me not use them.  The insoles are soft, and the gel dosn't break down after 2 days use like others I have tried.  These really are some of the best insoles I have personally tried.







Purchase Here:



XoXo
Lyn

*complementary product received for review*

Review: Kobert Waterproof Case


This case works very well. The only two downsides I had. Were the closures, the snaps were a pain to open and close, and my phone a Samsung Galaxy s4 with case, still had room in the case, so pressing down to type on my phone was a little more difficult. I live in the rainy pacific northwest, so this is great for going outside and keeping my phone safe!




Purchase Here:



Xoxo
Lyn

*complementary product received for Review*

Monday, December 22, 2014

Review: Your weigh.


*this post contains Affiliate links*

So, I am on the path to loosing weight. I saw the your weigh ab belt and wrist weights. (At the time they were being marketed as both wrist and ankle weights!)


I Just want to point out how awesome this company is. They listen to their customers, when many mentioned that the Wrist weights, could not be comfortably worn around the ankles, they re-marketed them! I must have tiny ankles, because I can comfortably wear mine around them, in fact I am doing so now! My favorite thing about the weights is they don't move, they aren't really bulky, and, they offer just enough weight to help you really strengthen your wrists and ankles, my wrists are so weak from years of sports, injuries, and army abuse to them.  So, I like to use these to help achieve lean muscle.  The weights themselves are high quality, the stitching in them is durable, and the velcro isn't some cheap Walmart style Velcro that looses its stick. It's a loop and pull system. The one thing I would like to see, is the actual weight be slightly longer for those with bigger wrists, so its not just sitting on top of the wrist, and the rest being Velcro

Purchase  Here:


.

This AB belt is a very high quality belt. Nothing was left out in the quality of the design here. The Velcro is very good, at staying in place. I probably could have gotten away with the the smaller belt. Additionally, I have a shorter torso. So, the belt goes from my hips, to about an inch under my breasts. That's the only thing I do not care for. As for if it works or not! Why yes it does! I put the belt on, and use it while I go on my nightly walks. Since, I can no longer really run because of my knee. I feel like the belt gives me some added help to produce sweat, and melt off the lbs! I can noticeably tell after using the belt, that my stomach is sweating more, than traditionally without. This is very easy to wash. I just throw it in my washing machine on the gentle cycle with cold water, and tumble dry on very low heat.

Purchase Here:



XoXo
Lyn


*Complementary product received for reviewing purposes. Regardless all opinions are my own*

Sunday, December 21, 2014

Review: Azure Naturals ULTIMATE ARGAN 100% Virgin Argan Oil



I actually really like this argan oil. It's not super smelly, or thick and hard to wash out! I use a couple of drops on my cuticles to help soften them, and in my hair to make it shine. A little goes a long way with theirs!


Purchase Here:
http://www.azurenaturals.com/collections/azure-naturals-ultimate-essential-oils/products/ultimate-argan



Product Information:


Experience IMMEDIATE Results from this Lightweight, Non-Greasy, Quickly and Easily Absorbed, Natural Oil For Soft, Silky Hair, Free From Frizz and Split Ends, and Younger, Healthier Looking Skin and Nails.
ARGAIN OIL is a natural source of beneficial lipids, essential fatty acids (including oleic, palmitic and linoleic acid), anti-oxidant compounds (including Ferulic acid), vitamins (including vitamin E/Tocopherol) and minerals
  • SUSTAINABLY SOURCED from the Argan forest in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco
  • HARVESTED in small batches to preserve the purity, quality and integrity of each batch then hand extracted, ground and kneaded by indigenous women, using centuries old techniques, working in fair trade co-operatives. It takes one local Berber woman, working in fair trade cooperatives, three days to make just one liter of oil. This is why Argan oil is so valuable.
  • Triple Purified, Cold First Pressed.
  • 1 YEAR 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE - If you're not 100% satisfied, simply contact us at any time and receive a full refund for your purchase, no questions asked!
Xoxo
Lyn

Friday, December 19, 2014

Dr. Song Salicylic Acid Peel!

Okay, now we all know there is no miracle cure all in a bottle. If there was though.. Dr.song Salicylic
acid peel comes pretty close! I do have pretty bad cystic Acne.  I have a reoccurring breakout along my jaw line on one side of my face. Being an adult in her mid 20s, I find it quite embarrassing, especially when I deal with direct patient care all day, or going to a job interview, and its clear I am trying to cover it with make up! I know that Salicylic acid is great for acne, so having the chance to review a peel, was a dream come true for me. Not to sound to cliche here.



Now. This was my first Salicylic Peel. So, I did a LOT of research on the proper way to do it while I was waiting for it to come in the mail. (Not that I actually followed all of the directions, but more on that later)


Uses for a Salicylic Acid Peel:
Acne, Acne Scars, Wrinkles, Large Pores & Blackheads, Oily Skin, Psoriasis, Razor Bumps and Warts

BEFORE ATTEMPTING AT HOME. READ ALL DIRECTIONS.
Dr. Song emails directions, as of this writing, I haven't gotten them, I did get directions when I was approved for review, however.  Last time, I got them a couple of days after receiving the product. So I can say they do email them!

Keep In mind:
course of frequent light peels is even better, and if done properly and safely, can clear up those issues for good. 


Aim to perform a 15% salicylic acid peel every 2 weeks, for 2 or 3 months.
The first peel will be for 1 minute.
Notice how your skin reacts and increase in 1 minute intervals each time for a maximum of 5 minutes.
This time frame of 2-3 months will show great results - often after the very first treatment. It will allow the benefits to be cumulative, and for a lot of people this is all they need to see vast improvements in acne and other skin conditions.
So, this is the article I used for performing my peel
http://www.bona-fide-skincare.com/salicylic-acid-peel.html I highly recommend it. 
Now, like I said before I didn't do all the steps they said to do. I personally did not use the baking soda to neutralize, like you should. I used my favorite green tea toner. 
I started by washing my face, and opening my pores, than used a alcohol wipe to clear my face of any residing oils. Then, I applied the peel using a cotton ball, stating my timer for 1 minute. Do not be alarmed if it looks like you have a white frost on your face, that's just the peel crystallizing, as salicylic acid does. As far as any pain/burning goes, this was not as bad as the lactic acid peel I did, my face felt hot, and itchy. I did manage to leave it on for 1 minute, but instead of using baking soda to neutralize, I just used cold water and a towel to remove, than applied my toner. After which, I applied a moisturizer with SPF in it.  Keep in mind, you should be cautious of the sun as your face will be sensitive. After the peel my face was red for just a few minutes, I did this last night, and I noticed the redness of my acne, starting to fade. I did have a small pimple, that came to a head after applying the peel. My pores are noticeably smaller, and my breakouts have clearly, reduced in size and color, they aren't red, the peel dried them out, and they are starting to go away.  Not an overnight cure by any means, but like I said. CLOSE!  I am so impressed with how well this works, and the results I have experienced in just one evening. 

Purchase Here:


You will get 15-20 peels from this bottle, enough to last you quite a while. For the price you can not beat it!

XoXo
Lyn

Review: Yalmah Foundation Brush

Yay for foundation brushes!!

So, I am a brush hoarder. I just love them, having the opportunity to receive a new one, how could I say no!

This brush is very soft, domed shaped, and thick. Now, I'm not sure if it is just my brush, or the way its cut, but it does seem like it was cut slightly off.  Mine is more slanted than dome shaped, which to me is okay, but the way I apply my foundation with a brush, if it isn't flat, is going to be in small circles, so I would prefer a true dome. I used this one with my liquid foundation, and at first it seemed to soak up the foundation more than apply it. No worries, this is natural when using a new brush for the first time. I fully expect this to happen after washing them too, I do wash my brushes often. After washing this brush.. I can happily report, no fall out! The brush itself is solid, and does not seem to be just hot glued together, which is great, no broken handles here! However the handle is a little thick for my liking. I can use it no problem, but I do have smaller hands. So,I wish it wasn't as fat, it is not heavy by any means either. This brush was created with synthetic fibers, which could have fooled me with out soft it is! They are vegan and cruelty free too!










Want to Purchase:

                                                                

XoXo
Lyn.



*Complementary product received for review purposes, regardless opinions are my own*

Review: Bio'sensiya



Hey!

So, following the directions.  Which say to  begin using the Bio'Sensiya Serum 2 nights a week and build up gradually to 4 nights a week. Then use every night thereafter. I did do this, and I am quite pleased with the results. This is more of a liquid as apposed to a serum in my opinion, at least mine was. My face looks brighter, and feels softer. I wont lie though, this smells like Orange Mop N glow! It takes a bit to get over, as it is slightly strong at first, but the smell dissipates. so no worries!
 Overall, I am pleased, and would recommend this product to anyone. 

Purchase Here:




Amazon Product Info: 
  • Helps to support healthy skin function and maintain its firmness. Appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, uneven skin is diminished overtime while firmness and elasticity are enhanced.
  • 1.5% of Vitamin A (Retinol) enhances overall skin beauty, improves appearance of pigmentation, skin texture and tone, as well as boosts skin hydration. Retinol is also effective at managing acne and eczema, as well as improving discolorations.
  • 15% Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, interrupts the free-radical damage process that causes skin to look and act older. It helps to maintain healthy, resilient skin, counteract wrinkle formation by increasing collagen production and reverses age-related damage to skin.
  • Vitamin D supports overall health of skin preventing moisture loss and outer layer to become thinner and more fragile.
  • Ferulic acid (from rice bran oil) has strong antioxidant properties is excellent at neutralizing free radicals and acts as a great stabilizer of topical soultions containing Vitamin C.









XoXo,
Lyn

*Complementary product received for review, regardless opinions are my own.*

Monday, December 15, 2014

Ballroom Dancing Mastery System (7 DVD Set) Review + Giveaway

Yay! I love to dance. I find it so relaxing, and stimulating. Plus! It's a great way to get in shape, and lose some weight!

Now, I used to dance way back when. Since, it's been a while, and well my body has taken a beating form the army, and child birth! I didn't want to sign up for some class, that may have been too easy, or too advanced for me. This disk set was PERFECT.  I love that I can put in a different disk or skip over certain parts that I am familiar with, or already know how to do. My 3yr old loves to do this with me, she cant quite get it yet. but, it is easy enough for her to understand too!  So, if you're new to dancing, or a seasoned professional, I think you can find something to enjoy here.  This disk set, is very easy to follow along with, and does not make you feel dumb with their teaching style, the pace is set just right for all levels. you do not need to be a seasoned dancer to use this! 


Hope you enjoy.
If you want to purchase: 



Or Comment below for your chance to win!


XoXo
Lyn

*I received this product free in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. Regardless I only recommend products I think my readers will enjoy*

Review: Smart Weigh Body Fat Scale



Smart Weigh Body Fat Digital Precision Scale with Tempered Glass Platform, Eight User Recognition, and 440 lb Weight Capacity, Measures Weight, Body Fat, Water, Muscle and Bone Mass.
 While I prefer my other scale over this one. (cause it is white) I would have to say over all this scale is better. I did give it to my niece, for some reason the kid wanted a scale. This current scale both in its sleeker and aesthetically more appealing appearance, they both measure the same. The other one I have actually measures more, the biggest difference is the size, weight, and this scale has 8 users, as opposed to four with my other one. This scale allows you to press the buttons to navigate each measurement. I found that to be quite nice.
This company skipped over no part in design. It is so thin, tempered glass. It is beautiful, the display is large. The box it came in was great. It was double boxed, with a plastic sleeve!




 Amazon Product Info:
  • Design - The Smart Weigh Body Fat Scale features a unique fitness inspired design to motivate you to stay in shape. The tempered glass platform and stainless steel accents contribute to its contemporary look.
  • User Recognition - Help your family stay healthy by using the features this scale has to offer. Through a simple set-up process, the scale can be programmed to automatically recognize up to eight users.
  • Vital Data - It is most empowering to know vital information about yourself. This scale measures body weight, body fat, body water, and muscle and bone mass. This information will help monitor your health status.
  • Convenience - With the Smart Weigh Step-on technology you can just step onto the scale to get a weight reading with no unnecessary tapping entailed to switch the scale on. Features a large negative LCD display.
  • Advanced Technology - This scales uses BIA technology to provide fitness information about yourself with just a few details. This scale comes auto calibrated and uses 2 CR2032 batteries which are included.




XoXo
Lyn

* I received this product free in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. Regardless I only recommend products  I think my readers will like*

Review: Baking Cups, and Kitchen Scale



Yay! I love kitchen things! Probably, because I love to cook and things of the sort.
So, I wanted to make bath bombs, for this review, but I am out of much needed ingredients!Instead, pumpkin spice muffins it is!


The first Item is the 24, Grazia Silicone Baking Cups.
These are very high quality constructed, and hold true to their nonstick claim. These baking cups are quite easy to work with, one of the things I love most. You don't need a muffin pan. You can set these right on a cookie sheet, or pizza pan, and no need to worry!  Please keep in mind, they will be hot as anything will be coming out of the oven. So I would let them cool , before attempting to take anything out of them.



Items needed for muffins! Yes, I got costco mix. Im not martha stewart here!  As you can see, the packaging the cups comes in is a plastic tub like container. I did have a hard time the first time taking them out, but Im just special! Now, it is recommended to wash these in warm soapy water before the first use.  I did indeed do that.




So,I wanted to make sure I had the same amount in each muffin cup, before I cooked them. using my super awesome kitchen scale from Gurin.  I was able to do this!


The Gurin kitchen scale, is light weight. Weighs up to 12lbs, is of solid sturdy, construction. It has a sleek black design,  I will say, you can see fingerprint smudges on this quite easily, as you can see in the photo. It wipes off really well though, so no need to worry there. I actually dropped this scale, and it still works. You can change the unit of measurement from oz, lbs, grams. It is a very versatile kitchen scale. I like that its flat instead of a bowl as well.  You can even out the weight of an item, by placing it empty on the scale, and pressing the tare button. Then adding your item.

As you can see, the zero'd out display. Is quite large, and very bright. It is easily read from a distance away too. Which for me is really good, because I am going blind in one eye.









                                                                             
My muffins are ready to go in the oven. I was pretty messy, I really wanted to see how well these would bake the muffins, and if they were really non stick.













They're done!  They turned out very well with these muffin cups, the best part is! No paper liners my guests are having to peel off, and toss in the trash, or have muffin stick to them. I will say there was some slight residue left on these, even after washing. (I don't think my mom quite knew how.) The best way to wash. Turn inside out and wash. Or throw them in the dishwasher!  They came off very easily, and didn't tear my muffins apart!





Overall, I am impressed with both the Kitchen Scale and Baking Cups! If you would like to purchase for yourself. You can do so at the links provided


HERE:




Hope you enjoyed,


XoXo
Lyn


*I received these products free in exchange for a 100% honest, and unbiased review. Regardless I only recommend products I think my readers will enjoy.*