moisturize – Chocolate 'N Children

August 25, 2016August 25, 2016

Ark Skincare: Age Targeted Skincare Products – Review

I received these products free for purposes of my review. All opinions are my own.

ARK Skincare is an award winning British skincare brand loved by Beauty Editors at top magazines like ELLE and Glamour ! ARK Skincare products uniquely treat skin at every age providing a daily skin regimen that protects, defends, and defys. Created in England, ARK Skincare products deliver professional, salon grade results using the most innovative natural formulations. The result is a highly effective personalized skincare regime for every individual.

The ARK Skincare family of age targeted products is divided into three age intelligent product lines to treat skin. Complemented by the Skin Perfector range of treatment products and the Skin Essential range of daily necessities, Ark Skincare offers a solution for all of your skincare needs.

Since I’m in my 30s I got to try the Age Defend Ark Skincare line. This line is formulated for women in their 30s and 40s and is designed to reduce wrinkles and moisturize my skin.

ARK AgeDefend Replenishing Moisturiser

This is a twice a day (morning and evening) facial moisturizer. Designed for women in their 30s and 40s. It’s designed to reduce wrinkles and moisturize my skin. Because in my 30’s I want to keep my skin healthy and protected so I can maintain good skin as I age.

My first big beauty product concern is scent. It’s really important to me that I like the scent of whatever beauty product I’m using. This AgeDefend Replenishing Moisturizer smells great. I think it’s the combination of the SheaButter, Kiwi, and Blue Lotus. It’s refreshing and relaxing at the same time. The perfect scent for morning and evening. The scent doesn’t linger long, I really only smell it until I have the lotion rubbed in, which is perfect.

Next up is convenience. This bottle is easy to use and non-messy. Both very important. I just push the top down a little bit and I can easily get the amount of lotion that I want.

Last but not least, effectiveness. I’ve been using this for a week and have not had any breakouts or other problems with this product. My face is moisturized throughout the day without being greasy, and since this is non-greasy my makeup goes on fine over this moisturizer.

This is a great facial moisturizer and it is refreshing and works well on my skin.

ARK SkinPerfector Hydration Injection Masque

This Masque is formulated for all ages. The older you are, the longer you leave it on. You can even leave it on overnight if desired.

Since I’m in my 30s I followed the directions and put the masque on for 10 minutes.

The masque feels like a thick lotion when you put it on, it smells great, just like the AgeDefend Replenishing Moisturizer. It’s a relaxing and refreshing scent. But not that strong because I’m pretty sure that only the person wearing the masque can smell it.

It also goes on clear. With it on, my face just looked a little shiny. Which wasn’t enough to alert my husband to the fact that I was wearing a masque.

I put the masque on, said goodnight to the kids, and sat down in the kitchen to wait until I could wash it off. My husband walked over and I was barely halfway through warning him when he gave me a big kiss on the cheek. And then there was no need to tell him that I had a masque on. The masque apparently does not taste very good.

The masque was easy to wash off with warm water and I applied my ARK Age Defend Replenishing Moisturizer afterwards. My skin was soft and well moisturized.

Both of these products work well, are non-irritating, and smell great! For more information and to find the products designed for your skin check out Ark Skincare’s Website. You can shop by age, skin concern, and product type to find something that’s just right for you.

August 3, 2016

Aquation – Review

I received 3 full size Aquation products free for purposes of my review. All opinions are my own.

About Aquation:

There are endless elements that affect your skin daily – not all of them in your control. There is a solution. Skincare that protects, restores and fortifies, with moisture you can feel. Clinically proven results you can see. Moisture balance technology you can count on. The perfect Aquation for hydrated + healthy skin.

Powered by Hydro Balance™ Aquation’s advanced dual phase technology delivers hydration and creates an invisible barrier to help prevent moisture loss while encapsulated actives penetrate deeply for long-lasting hydration. 100% of women in clinical trials saw more hydrated skin, even up to 24 hours. 93% experienced instant hydration. 93% found non-irritating.

Aquation consists of a family of hydrating cleansers, creams, and moisturizers. You can learn more about Aquation here.

Summer can be so hard on my skin. I’ve been outside with the kids a LOT this summer, and my skin definitely needs some additional moisture. So, I am quite happy that I got to try out these products.

Aquation Gentle Moisturizing Cleanser:

I set this cleanser in my shower and used it instead of my usual body wash. I am very pleased with the results.

It doesn’t lather very well. I tried it in my loofah and that didn’t work very well. This body was was just a bit too lotiony to lather. So, if you’re looking for lots of bubbles, this isn’t the product for you.

I also tried it using a wash cloth (because I like to scrub with something) and that worked quite well. The pump bottle is easy to use in the shower.

The results are what I’m most pleased with. This body wash did a great job of cleansing without drying out my skin. It also moisturized without leaving my skin feeling greasy or oily.

It’s lightly moisturizing, so you’re still going to want to use the Aquation lotion after your shower if your skin really needs moisture, like mine does. But it is nice to get out of the shower with my skin already one step closer to being well moisturized.

Aquation Daily Moisturizing Lotion:

I just love, love, love this lotion! It moisturizes so well without leaving my skin greasy. One of my biggest lotion challenges is that after putting lotion on my hands are clammy because of the lotion. I often end up having to wash my hands just to get the greasy feel off – which kinda defeats the purpose of using the lotion. Not so with this lotion. It absorbs quickly and without leaving my skin oily to the touch.

This is a great all over body lotion but honestly, I’m loving it for my hands because I can moisturize my hands without the being greasy afterwards. I need to get a bottle just for my desk so I have it on hand when I want it.

Aquation Moisturizing Cream:

This is a lot like the Daily Moisturizing Lotion, just a little thicker and a little bit more moisturizing. I’ve been using this product after my shower and on any spots that need extra hydration. Like my shoulders after a fun day in the sun.

I’m not using it every day but just when I need a little extra moisture and it’s working great. It’s also non greasy but still does a great job of hydrating my skin.

This combined with the Daily Lotion and the Moisturizing Cleanser has been really good for my skin.

After more than a week of using these products my skin is more hydrated and refreshed than I usually manage in the summer.

All of these products are gentle and non-irritating to my skin. They also seem to be unscented so they would be safe for me to use on my kids as well.

Want to try these product for yourself? You can purchase them HERE. Or purchase in-store at WalMart and use this Coupon for additional savings. At $9 each these are a great deal!

Follow Aquation on social media:

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I received these products free for purposes of my review. All opinions are my own.

April 14, 2016

Plant Powered “Non-Prescriptions” for Eczema, Psoriasis, and Scalp Issues

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Thanks to derma e, I received all of these product for free for purposes of my review.

If you’re living with eczema or psoriasis, you know how painful, frustrating, and even embarrassing it can be. Recurring patches of dry, red, itchy, flaky, irritated skin can make you want to hide.

You may have turned to prescription treatments or over-the-counter products only to be dissatisfied with the results, or the fact that they contain ingredients like steroids, coal tars or pine tars. The good news is that derma e has formulated something incredibly effective, and so safe that the entire family could use it.

derma e Psorzema® Crème is made with a safe and effective blend of herbal extracts and skin vitamins such as Neem, Burdock, Bearberry, Vitamins A and E to help soften and soothe dry, irritated, scaling skin. It’s natural blend of ingredients help reduce redness and encourage healthy looking skin without the use of steroids, coal tar or pine tar.

Family owned and operated for over 30 years, derma e has pioneered the development of vitamin-rich, high-performance antioxidant skincare solutions. The award-winning line features doctor-developed, consumer-tested and clinically-tested face care, body care and treatment products that are free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil and petrolatum. Every formula is cruelty-free, gluten-free and 100 percent vegan. Manufacturing and operations are offset 100 percent by wind power. derma e can be found in over 16,500 retail outlets across the U.S. such as Whole Foods Markets, ULTA Beauty, CVS and more!

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My kids have sensitive skin. My oldest is sensitive to scents and dyes so we were already using the free and clear laundry products by the time my little guy came along. He’s sensitive too, but since I’ve already cut most scents and dyes out of the kids skincare sensitivity wasn’t my problem with him.

Dry skin was a problem. Not all over, but little patches of dry skin around his knees, elbows, and legs. And dandruff in his hair. At his 1yr checkup my dr suggested that I use cortizone on him for a week to clear up his dry skin. It did a great job of clearing up his skin problem, but I truly hate using something with a steroid in it every month or so on my child’s skin. It just can’t be good for him. I’m supposed to use an anti dandruff shampoo on him as well but I can’t stand the smell of it and it really stings his eyes if the soap gets in his eyes when I’m rinsing his hair – and, there’s no 100% effective method for keeping all soap out of a wiggly toddler’s face when you’re washing his hair. So, I’m constantly on the lookout for safer products for my child.

I was super excited to try out this new Psorzema Creme. Something to help my child’s skin that doesn’t have steroids in it. Plus it’s natural, gentle, dye and scent free, and affordable. At $20 for a 4oz container on their website, it’s worth it to keep my child’s skin moisturized without steroids.

I got to try out the Scalp Relief Shampoo and Conditioner, the Body Wash, and the Psorzema Creme. I’m so pleased with all of these products! The Scalp Relief shampoo and conditioner really did help my child’s dandruff – and without the nasty smell of the anti-dandruff shampoos. The body wash was gentle and non-irritating to his skin. And best of all, the Psorzema Creme is just wonderful. It hydrated and softened his skin and all those little dry spots, that appear every time the seasons change, were gone after just a couple days of using the Creme. I couldn’t be happier.

I was already starting my annual spring hunt for a product that will keep his skin moisturized all summer. Because, once summer arrives and we’re swimming or in the sprinkler most days, it’s next to impossible to catch up if his skin gets too dry. I’ve found what I was looking for! The Psorzema Creme is so perfect for his skin, and it moisturizes so quickly and effectively, I’m going to be able to easily keep his skin moisturized all summer long. And I’ll definitely be purchasing more of this once my free product runs out.

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If you suffer with Eczema or Psoriasis, or just have dry or irritate skin, this is an awesome product that is really working well for my family.

Free sample!
As a special bonus for my readers. derma e is giving away samples of their Psorzema Creme to the first 10 readers who request a sample. You can go to their form here and request your free sample. And after you’ve tried it, I’d love to here in the comments what you think!

I received this product free for purposes of my review. All opinions are my own.

April 6, 2016April 9, 2016

Valentia Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum – Review

Valentia Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum – A potent and luxurious lactic acid serum that supports natural circulation for an all over youthful and refreshed complexion.

This Revitalizing Serum Will:
– Renew texture & tone
– Deeply moisturize
– Minimize fine lines
– Increase elasticity
– Brighten & Plumbs Fine Lines
– Evens Hyperpigmentation

All Valentia products are made with Natural & Organic Ingredients. They are specially selected to work together to achieve optimum results.

KEY INGREDIENTS:

– Wakame Bioferment (Seaweed): Increases skin oxygen consumption to detoxify and boost antioxidant defense.

– Gotu Kola: Lessens the appearance of scars and increases skin firmness.

– Lactic Acid: A natural Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that increases skin cell turnover, for healthier renewed skin.

– Licorice: Lightens unwanted pigmentation and corrects skin discoloration.

– Argan Oil: Naturally rich in Vitamin E, this oil reduced water loss and protects skin’s resiliency and elasticity.

I followed the directions and applied this product in the evening.

Wash and dry face
Apply Serum
Let serum dry (doesn’t take long)
Use your favorite nighttime creme or lotion

Super easy. This serum does a great job of toning and moisturizing my face. And applying it right before my moisturizer helps my skin absorb more moisture.

Some nighttime products leave my skin feeling greasy in the morning, but this Valentia Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum was not a problem. In fact, my skin feels more moisturized and less greasy when I use this with my favorite nighttime moisturizer than it does if I use just the moisturizer without this serum.

The bottle has a pump that is easy to use and I love how the bottle is just the right size for storing in my bathroom cabinet.

I also love that this product is cruelty free, made in the USA, and includes organic and natural ingredients. Makes me feel like I’m doing something good for my skin.

Check out more Valentia products on their website, and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for updates and tips.

I received this product free for purposes of my review. All opinions are my own.

March 10, 2016April 9, 2016

Valentia Royal Rose Hydrating Serum – Review

Royal Rose Hydrating Serum – A lightweight serum that boosts moisture and resilience while soothing and calming the skin.

This Hydrating & Nourishing Serum Will:
– Deeply moisturize skin
– Provide antioxidant protection
– Soothe & nourish dry skin
– Smooth skin tone & texture
– Boost skin radiance

Specially selected ingredients work together to achieve optimum results.

– Rose Damascena: One of the most nourishing and skin friendly natural oils, providing balance, moisture, and a variety of vitamins and minerals to the skin.

– Niacinamide (Vitamin B): This potent vitamin has been clinically proven to fade away hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and acne..

– Rosehip Seed Oil: Naturally rich in Vitamins C & A, these essential fatty acids work quickly to lock in skin’s moisture.

– Evening Primrose Oil: Provides light, non-oily moisture to the skin, never clogging or irritating the skin.

– Bearberry: Reduces melanin production, thereby lightening the skin, revealing a brighter complexion.

– Lavender: Heals the skin, treating pimples, wounds, and sores.

Also Valentia products are Made in the USA, cruelty free, vegan friendly, sustainably produced, and contain organic and natural ingredients.

The first thing I noticed about this product was the aroma. It’s so rosy smelling! It reminds me of this rose lotion my Grandmother used to wear when I was a kid. It always smelled so good, and she would always share a little with me and then I would smell so good as well.

This product smells just like that, just not as strong, because the scent doesn’t really last after it’s rubbed in to your skin. I do love the scent though (it must be from the Rose Damascena) and it brings back happy memories every time I use it.

I also like that this product is made with organic and natural ingredients because then I don’t mind sharing with the kids when they want to try my stuff. My 5yr old tried this out the other day and her first comment was about how good it smells. She said she plans to use it every morning like me so she’ll smell good every day. It’s not just me that thinks that this product smells great!

So, now for how I actually use the product. I use it like the instructions recommend, as the first thing I put on after washing my face. After the Royal Rose Hydrating Serum I use my eye cream, moisturizer, and then makeup.

I love how refreshing it feels when I put it on and it does a great job of adding deeper hydration to my skin every morning. So my face is well hydrated, my skin is soft and smooth, and my complexion is clear. I do like this product for more than just the great scent.

I received this product free for purposes of my review. All opinions are my own.