A Different Hyaluronic Acid Option

I'm all about Hyaluronic Acid these days. (Seriously?! What took me so long to try this stuff?) But, one product doesn't work for everyone and everyone needs a little Hyaluronic Acid in their lives. In an effort to make this so, I give you another option for your beauty arsenal: 180 Cosmetics Pure Swiss Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin C.

180 Pure Swiss Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin C - $11.39

As always, here's what the manufacturer says about the product:

• CONTAINS THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION OF THE ABSOLUTE BEST QUALITY SWISS HYALURONIC ACID AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET- enriched with natural ingredients and vitamin C for maximum results. Also contains powerful antioxidants that protect skin from free radicals

• REVERSE THE SIGNS OF AGING WITH THE NEWEST 180 COSMETICS PURE SWISS HYALURONIC SERUM + VITAMIN C THAT HAS TAKEN THE WORLD BY STORM! Watch this truly revolutionary serum reverse the signs of aging right before your eyes, as it restores skin's elasticity and leaves it looking and feeling smooth, supple, and rejuvenated.

• FOR AGES 40 AND ABOVE - we also recommend using the 180 Cosmetics Pure Swiss Hyaluronic Serum or cream + Peptides, for maximum results.

• CHECK OUT OUR NEW PRODUCTS: Hyaluronic Serum + Oxygen, Hyaluronic Serum + Peptides, and Hyaluronic Cream + Peptides for a Smoother, Younger Looking Neckline and Decolletage.

• WHY YOU NEED TO CHOOSE 180 COSMETICS? Because you deserve to get the best possible results!!

I love this ingredient because it works. How it's delivered and what it's combined with can be tailored to meet anyone's needs. The fact that this is a serum means that you need very little of it to be effective and it's going to moisturize deep down. Others offer it a variety of forms from a gel to thick cream. But, the serum is the best bet for most. I'd say the gel or lotion forms are best for women under 40 and the serum is best for anyone over 40 or with really dry skin.

The 180 version came in a pretty small bottle. I'd say a little bigger than my thumb. But, a little goes a long way with serum, so don't let size fool you. You use a dropper to dispense the serum. Personally, I'm not a fan of droppers for anything. My hands are shaky and I'm clumsy. I'm worried I'll knock the little bottle over and lose all preciousness inside. I think a pump option would be best.This is just me though. 

The serum is light, smooth and absorbs quickly into the skin, making it ideal for bed or under makeup. 

The Vitamin C added to this really makes the skin glow and look radiant. They're an amazing compliment to each other for really youthful, energized skin. And, it's not just while it's applied. It's improving skin overall, from within. It's not some false advertising stuff that just temporarily tightens your skin. 

I liked this stuff so much that I had to share it with someone. Who better than my beautiful mother? She was really impressed with it as well. She really liked using it as a light primer under her mineral foundation. She said her skin felt firmer after just one use. She's already planning on buying more.

So, if you want to try Hyaluronic Acid without spending a small fortune and have over 40 or dry skin, this is definitely the way to go.  

**I was given this product free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion and review**

Anaiti Eye Gel

I have my dad to thank for the ever present dark circles under my eyes, Since my mid 20s, I've been constantly asked if I'm 'tired' or 'feeling well' or accused of partying a bit too much. Nope, just genes. 

I hate the circles. They do nothing but age me and make me look run down. I've tried a bin full of products to try and combat this issue. Some of them you've seen reviews about right here. 

I was asked to try Anaiti Eye Gel and give my honest opinion after using it. I'd used their Luminous Serum and it was like a miracle. Needless to say, I had high expectation for this stuff. Here's the run down.

Anaiti Eye Gel - $39.99

Here's what the manufacturer says about the product:

AN ADVANCED EYE GEL NOT JUST FOR CELEBRITIES!- Is the area around your eyes losing its firmness?
- Dark circles, puffiness, bags under your eyes?
- Crow's feet?
ANAITI'S EYE GEL CAN HELPThe area around the eyes needs a special kind of facial care because the skin is thinner and more delicate. It's also where most people look when they meet others.
A unique formula of cutting edge ingredients:
* MATRIXYL - stimulates collagen-producing fibroblasts to keep your skin smooth and reduces wrinkle depth by 68%.
* HALOXYL - helps thicken the skin and found to reduce dark circles/puffiness by over 60% in just over a month.
* EYELISS - a mix of three active peptides reduces swelling and boosts firmness/elasticity.
HAILED AS AN ANTI-AGING POWERHOUSE!Research shows our blend of patented skinceutical ingredients can improve the look of skin surrounding the eyes. Our customers love Anaiti!
** Imagine a younger looking YOU **
RESPECTED RESULTS - OUR PRODUCT RIVALS SIMILAR ALTERNATIVES - IT IS SIMPLY SUPERIOR!TRY OUR REVOLUTIONARY ADVANCED EYE GEL TODAYIn a clinical study of 20 volunteers with chronic bags under their eyes, 65% showed a visible reduction after 28 days, and 70% showed measurable improvement after 56 days.
In an ERSP post-clinical trial survey of Eyeliss, 62% of volunteers believed their eye contours were smoothed and 52% felt reductions in the bags under their eyes.
OUR GUARANTEEWe stand by our Advanced Eye Gel's quality, we offer a 100% Money-Back Guarantee!
YOU'VE NOTHING TO LOSE - JUST THE YEARS FROM YOUR FACE.

So, it's supposed to address all the major cosmetic eye concerns we have with aging. Sounds great!

First, I was bit surprised that this product arrived in a pump instead of the tub as pictured. I had to do a bit of a double take to make sure I had received the right item. The pump dispensed out more than I expected or needed. Personally, with an eye product, I'd prefer the tub so that I have more control over the amount I use. A pump has the benefit of not actually touching the product, keeping it more sanitary for eye use. But, the tub is my personal preference. 

The gel was slightly opaque, odorless and very smooth. I applied it with my ring finger as  I do all products around my eye. It didn't cause any irritation or tenderness to my uber sensitive orbitals, which is a perk. But, it felt sticky. I tried applying less and less, but the sticky wouldn't go away. I suppose that doesn't matter during the night, but it wasn't possible to allow it to absorb and apply makeup over it during the day. 

It did seem to moisturize fairly well and was easy to use. But, I can't say I noticed a difference in either the circles or the fine lines I'm now getting in my 30s. 

Given the price point and the success I've had with other Anaiti products, I had high hopes and expectations. This one missed the mark for me. 

• #EyeCream

**I received this product free of charge in exchange for my experience and honest review**

Rose Hips Don't Lie

Beauty oil is everywhere lately and there's so many different kinds it's hard to know which is good for what and how much they're worth. 
The go to tends to be good 'ole Argan Oil. But, my success with the stuff has been minor at best. I know a  lot of people swear by it, but it walked a fine line with me on how much to use where. I was always applying too much or too little. 
I recently heard about rose hip oil. Rose hip oil is 'full of vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids that are known to correct dark spots and hydrate dry, itchy skin, all while reducing scars and fine lines.' It can also be used in hair. 
I tried GoPure Naturals Rosehip Oil.

GoPure Rosehip Oil - $13.91

I was really surprised at how large the bottle was. That and given the price it was a great value. For some reason, I expected it to smell like roses or at least be sweet smelling. It smelled a bit nutty and mostly green. The scent was very light and didn't last though. There wasn't much with regards to usage directions on the bottle, but that seems to be the case in most beauty oils these days. 

I tried this product on skin, scars and hair. I have extremely sensitive skin that's very dry. I was really impressed with how quickly this absorbed into my skin and it actually didn't leave the greasy, slick feeling other oils have. It moisturized and did it's job quickly. I wasn't able to see any improvement in discoloration or scar appearance, but I didn't expect to in such a short time. 

I had some correspondence with the manufacturer and they really believed in and had pride in their product, which says a lot to me. It's made with love and excitement.

I definitely now much prefer this rosehip oil to any of the Argan Oils I've tried in the past. It's much more forgiving in it's usage, it's more affordable and it absorbs quickly. If you'd had poor experiences with other beauty oils or you're wanting to try them, this is definitely the way to go. 

For more info on GoPure Rosehip Oil:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gopure-Naturals/1532309590375841
http://www.gopurenaturals.com

*I received this product free of charge in return for my honest opinion and review.*

3D Fiber Mascara. Fab or Flop?

Like many of you ladies, I've seen the before and after pictures on our friends pages showing every day 'before lashes' and super plump, full 'after lashes' and been instantly jealous. Then, I click the link and see the price tag and quickly close the window. The whole trend started with the Younique and boasted a $29 price tag. Quickly, knockoffs showed up from over seas at much lower rates. I picked up one of those and I saw decent results, but the flaking made it impossible to actually wear. I thought I needed practice and tried it about 10 times, with no improvement.

I was given Mia Adora 3D Fiber Lash Mascara to try in return for my honest review.

Mia Adora 3D Fiber Lash Mascara - $22.95

Running about $7 less than the original, I'll take any savings I can get, but the price is still a bit steep in my mind. I really likes the lovely packaging. It also smelled better than the other brand I had tried. I followed the directions to a T. Although my lashes weren't quite as full as they were with the other brand, they didn't flake nearly as much. The only benefit I saw from the knock off that would have benefited here was a deeper, darker black in the Step 1 & 3 tube. Some may really like that the results are slightly more subtle, but more believable with this brand. 

Overall, I think it's a great entry fiber lash mascara to try when you're look isn't quite kardashianesque. Perhaps it's just me, but with all fiber lash mascaras I have an issue with flaking and absolutely can't use it while wearing contacts. This mascara does make a pretty dramatic and lovely difference in your lashes without going over the top. It's a look that could be worn to work or to dinner with your S.O.

*I was given this product free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion and review*

Forlan Skincare Hyaluronic Acid Serum Review

I have super sensitive, problem skin. I'm at that fun age where I have pimples and I'm wrinkles. I've tried everything short of Accutane and my doctor recommended I try Hyaluronic Acid years ago. But, everything else that had the word 'acid' in it resulted in irritation and burning. So, I blew it off.
Forlan and Tomoson requested I try and review their Hyaluronic Acid and I was surprised by the results.

Forlan Skincare Hyaluronic Acid Serum - $24.95

According to the manufacturer, here's what makes it up:

Deionized Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Juice, Phenoxyethanol, Witch Hazel Extract, Acrylates/C 10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, MSM, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E), Sodium Hydroxide,Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C), Lavender Oil, L-Arginine, Retinyl Palmitate (vitamin A), Cholecalciferol (vitamin D).

The bottle is actually much larger than it looks. I really appreciated that it was a pump and not a dropper. It made it a lot easier to use. The serum itself was a bit thin and smelled a bit like alcohol. The consistency was more like a gel than a serum. But, I think this was actually better for people in my age group. It allowed it to absorb more quickly and it's overly rich for my pimples with wrinkles skin. I also have extremely sensitive skin and there was absolutely no adverse affect from using the Forlan Hyaluronic Acid.

After just a few days, I really did see a marked improvement in my skin. Particularly my neck. The early 'chicken skin' that begins to take over around 30 was much smoother. The fine lines and darkness around my eyes was diminished. The consistency also for it to be beneficial under makeup. It wasn't oily at all and didn't interfere with foundation.

Overall, I think this a great, valuable product for people about 26-40. It's not overly powerful or oily, which those over 40 may need. It's an incredible first step to an anti aging regimen.

*I was given this product free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion and review.*

Review: Nutriscal Hair Growth Vitamins

Beauty comes from within....

We've all heard this or something like this at some point. And, it makes sense. Health is something more than how we feel, it's how we look. I recently removed the black from my hair and with it, a lot of the 'health' that my hair had. When Tomoson and Nutriscal asked me to try and review their vitamins for hair health I was thrilled! Here's what I learned:

                                                Nutriscal Hair Growth Vitamins $39.95

The claim:

Nutriscal is a professionally formulated hair growth product for women and men of all ages that is designed to promote existing hair growth and support healthy, vibrant hair. Our lab team combined 24 of the most powerful hair growth vitamins available to create a hair growth pill unlike any other.

The ingredients:

Vitamin A (10,000 IU), Vitamin C (250mg), Vitamin E (12 IU), Vitamin B-1 (30mg), Vitamin B-2 (100mg), Niacinamide (30mg), Vitamin B-6 (100mg), Folic Acid (400mcg), Biotin (2000mcg), Pantothenic Acid (250mg), Calcium (200mg), Zinc (5mg), Copper (1mg), Choline Bitartrate (250mg), Silica (bamboo 70% extract : 40mg), Inositol (250mg), Para-aminobenzoic acid (100mcg), L-Cysteine (100mcg), MSM (50mg), Ginkgo Biloba (30mg), Saw Palmetto (250mg), Pygeum Africanum (100mg), Green Tea Extract (50mg), Grape Seed Extract (50mg). 

I was a bit confused reading the ingredients. Some of the ingredients seem a bit like filler there since you'd find them in a regular multi vitamin or there's not much to support it's efficiency in hair and scalp health or hair growth. I was also really surprised not to see any fatty acids there. These are crucial in hair and skin health, yet they're omitted from the ingredients here. You also need to be really careful taking these along with other supplements and vitamins because there's a risk of taking too much, which can have some negative health effects.

The pills are also very large. I don't have a problem with pills. But, these are really big and, being solid, a bit hard to swallow. 

Still, I diligently tried the supplement for 2 weeks hoping to restore my hair to it's shiny luxurious former self. 

I had weird burps for a few hours after taking these. I would definitely recommend taking them with food. I suspect that perhaps the zinc is the cause of this. I also can't say that I noticed any improvement in the health of my hair or scalp, nor any increase in growth after the 2 weeks. Perhaps, 2 weeks just isn't enough. I took it another week, though not quite as adamantly, but still noticed nothing.

For nearly $40, I expected more from a supplement. Overall, I sadly found the supplement large, lacking and ineffective. I would stick to a good multi vitamin and fatty acids in the future. 

***I was given this product free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion and review***

Argan Oil: Miracle or Hype?

Uni Argan Oil - $12.95

If you haven't heard of Argan Oil, I'm pretty sure you've been living under a rock. It's touted as a miracle beauty oil for every part of the body and every skin type. But,with that popularity, the market is over saturated with options and you never know what you'll get. 

According to Draxe.com this stuff is amazing for:

1. Nighttime Moisturizer2. Skin Toner3. Exfoliating4. Acne5. Stretch Marks6. Razor Bumps and Burn7. Whole-Body Moisturizer8. Leave-In Conditioner & Styling 9. Overnight Deep Conditioning Treatment10. Lip Conditioner11. Nails12. Dry Feet and Heels

Personally, I've tried 2 brands. The first I got at a natural herbal/vitamin store. It was listed as 100% pure and cost a pretty penny. It had to be liquid gold, right? I hated it. It made my hair greasy, my skin break out and didn't absorb at all into my hands and nails.

So, when Tomoson and Uni asked me to try their Argan Oil, I was a bit 'meh' about the idea. But, Uni seemed a bit different and I was excited to give it a try. Here's what they have to say about their product:

Our fast absorbing light weight oil is smooth, and NON greasy compared to other brands.Highest quality of oil production, it is cold pressed and unroasted. Comes rich in Vitamin E (Tocopherols) and Omega 6 (Linolenic Acids).NO strong odors. Our 100% organic Argan oil has a light nutty smell and is fragrance free.USDA and ECOCERT certification means high purity and authentic.Can be used on sensitive and non-sensitive skin to reduce age spots and boost skin tones.Manufactured in the Kingdom of Morocco and Packaged in the USA.UNi Argan Oil comes in a beautiful smooth dark glass bottle with easy access dropper.UNi Argan Oil are manufactured and bottled throughout the year to ensure freshness and quality. Manufactured date is printed on every bottle with a shelf-life of 36 months.

The bottle was a lot larger than the one I previously purchased, and thus a much better value. I immediately noticed a difference in the texture of the oil. It was much more of a 'dry oil' than the other I had tried. There wasn't a strong scent, but there was a slight 'nutty' odor to the oil. (which makes sense since Argan is in the nut family) As directed, I applied a few drops in my hands and rubbed them together. This time, the oil really seemed to warm up noticeably. It actually felt like it had a warming effect. I applied it to my feet, legs, elbows, neck and hair. It absorbed, but not quickly. The really dry areas of skin didn't seem to absorb as well and felt a bit greasy for awhile, but I suspect that some good exfoliation prior to applying it would help that. The next morning, I would know if it had promise.

Waking up, the oil had finally absorbed completely. My legs and feet were soft. My neck didn't care too much for the oil and was a bit broken out, but it may have just been a bit too much for my crazy sensitive skin there. My hair was softer, but it still seemed frizzy and the ends were a bit dry. 

I tried the regimen again the next few nights. I added a couple extra drops to my hair and it seemed better but not miraculously perfect. So, I added a couple more. Following this increase in application, my hair looked really really greasy. So, there's definitely a fine line in how much to use of it. In fact, that's the only thing I have negative to say about the Uni Argan Oil. I really wish there was some kind of guide on the bottle as to how much to use on hair, skin, face, etc. Even just a starting point would be nice. I suppose everyone is different. But it would be nice to know if you need 3 drops or the entire dropper. 

I tried using the Uni Argan Oil in different way with different results. I added a few drops to my conditioner in shower prior to application (which seems to be the best option for my fine hair). I added it to my spray in detangler and it was greasy looking. I added it to the bath water but didn't really notice a difference. I added it to lotion and it seemed to amp up the lotions staying power and benefits. If you're going to try it on dry hair, use it sparingly or it'll look dirty.

Overall, I much preferred the Uni Argan Oil to the other I had tried. After my experience, I think it's best used a supplement to beauty but not a miracle catch all for everyone in every way. The Uni was a superior product and better value. 

More info on Uni Argan Oil:
http://www.amazon.com/Organic-Moroccan-TRIPLE-ABSORBING-Certified/dp/B00G5WO2VK/

http://www.unipurity.com/
#argan
***I received this product for free for my honest and unbiased opinion and review.***