I received a 16 oz bottle of fractionated coconut oil from Radha Beauty through BrandBacker to review in exchange for my honest feedback.
(image via radha beauty)
Hey Y'all! Its been a while since I've been able to blog, but I have so many great things to share with you! I'm really enjoying this fractionated coconut oil. I have used the cold pressed coconut oil for a lot of things and I've found that the fractionated coconut oil is more convenient for how I use it.
I like to use it in my hair after my shower to keep my hair from drying out since I bleach it blonde.
Recently I found out I had a food allergy (yay!!) and I used the oil to soothe my dry, itchy skin.
It also makes a great facial moisturizer.
Aroma therapy oils- I've mixed my essential oils with this, I love it! I will be ordering some lavender oil to mix with this.
Cuticles- never spend a ton on a small bottle of cuticle oil. My manicures look great after using this.
Makeup remover- I like to use this to remove my mascara and eyeliners and its easy on my sensitive skin.
If you look on pinterest there are so many things you can do with this bottle of coconut oil!
DIY COCONUT OIL FOAMING SOAP
4 TABLESPOONS OF CASTILE SOAP OR MILD SOAP
1 TABLESPOON FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL
1 CUP DISTILLED WATER
ESSENTIAL OIL (OPTIONAL) I think lemon or lavender would be great!
FOAMING HAND SOAP DISPENSER great way to recycle those dispensers!
Fill an empty foaming soap dispenser 1/2 of they way with distilled water. Add the castile soap,fractionated coconut oil, and essential oils. Add a little more water, if needed. make sure to leave enough room at the top for the pump. Place pump on top and tighten. shake well to combine and enjoy!
I am going try this after I am finished with my bottle of foaming hand soap.
Another thing that I liked was how helpful and great their customer service is at Radha Beauty. They even emailed me several ideas and recipes to go with my coconut oil.
I have to say that I really enjoyed making the switch to fractionated coconut oil and I will order this once my bottle runs out.
I have been testing out some essential oils I received from instanatural complimentary through brandbacker for testing purposes in exchange for my honest opinions and reviews.
you can check them out here on their website and on amazon!
I received a 4 oz bottle of their lemon and peppermint essential oil. They are 100% pure and natural.
I love that it comes in a dark glass bottle. I wont have to worry about harmful chemicals leeching into my oils.
These two essential oils retail for $19.97 each. They also have a sleek looking diffuser I've had my eye on! (image from wwww.instanatural.com)
I Googled the uses for these oils and I have found so many. My bottles are already half empty!!
Uses for the lemon essential oil
1. In case you leave your laundry in the washer too long, add a few drops of the lemon essential oil
so it wont get that nasty smell.
2.Clean hands- if you get grease on your hands add a couple of drops with your soap to remove it.
3.Natural Disinfectant- add 40 drops lemon essential oil and 20 drops tea tree oil to a 16 oz spray bottle, fill with water and a little vinegar.
4.Face Wash-mix lemon oil with baking soda and honey for a natural acne free face wash.
5.Improves mood- diffusing lemon essential oil in the air can lift your mood and fight depression
Uses for the peppermint essential oil
1. Sooth motion sickness-massage several drops of the peppermint essential oil on your wrists or abdomen or inhale to soothe motion sickness or nausea.
2. Curb appetite- inhaling peppermint essential oil is said to help curb your appetite by triggering a sense of fullness.
3. Improve your shampoo- add 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil to your shampoo and conditioner to stimulate the scalp and wakeup.
4.Reduce allergies- diffusing peppermint oil along with clove and eucalyptus oil can reduce your symptoms.
5.Repelling mice- place a few drops of peppermint essential oil on a cotton ball and place under your cabinets or where the mice are coming in from to repel them.
There are so many uses for these oils it was hard to pick only 5 each! I'm going to get the diffuser for my house I just love the scent of the lemon! what I have been doing is placing a few drops in my kitchen sink then running hot water over it and it fills my house with a wonderful lemon scent!
You can purchase these on amazon or their website I love them both so I really cannot pick a favorite.
Which scent do you prefer lemon or peppermint? Do you have any cool uses for essential oils? Comment below I would love to hear!
Hey There! I have an exciting giveaway to share with you hosted by the Wikes Group! They are hosting a giveaway They are giving out 20 two 5 oz facial sprays. You can enter here
Learn About the Brand
Evian ®Natural Mineral Water’s journey starts as rain and snow high atop the French Alps after which it filters for over 15 years through glacial rock and sand to a deep underground catchment just outside the town of Evian-Les-Bains, France. The water contained in the spray is tested 300 times per day to insure quality and the consistent unique mineral content—guaranteed to be the same year after year—canister to canister. No other water has the same mineral content.
Evian Facial Spray was originally introduced in France in 1962 at the request of doctors for use on burn patients. It was the first facial water spray in France and was introduced as the first facial spray in the United States in 1978. Because of the current world-wide awareness of the Evian brand name, and the 36 year efforts of the USA exclusive distributor (The Wilkes Group Inc. in Old Lyme, CT), Evian is the only facial spray to be carried by many prestige retail groups including Nordstrom and Sephora. It is also offered in many luxury resorts and hotels such as Four Seasons.
The French Government has extremely stringent standards for approving mineral waters as suitable to drink. Evian Facial Spray is the only mineral water spray in the USA to contain such a water and the only one with a companion drinkable bottled mineral water. Worldwide, the Evian brand can be found now in over 120 countries.
The Wilkes Group was founded in 1976 and has distributed Evian Facial Spray since 1978. The company is focused primarily on prestige distribution at retail and luxury resorts/hotels that buy the product as a room, cabana, or poolside amenity.
I've heard great things about this product. I have not tried this facial mist from Evian but I do have one from another brand that I use to set my makeup, I use it after my shower and as a pick me up through out my day. I will be applying for this giveaway.
Have you tried this spray? Will you be applying for this giveaway?
Hello!
I was sent another awesome beauty product to test from Valentia and Brand Backer free of charge in exchange for my honest reviews and opinions.
I received a 1.18 oz bottle of their Even Glow Serum. I have to say I love the box and packaging. It came in a white and gold box that has a high end feel to it. I usually throw my packaging out when I open my makeup or skin products but I really like the packaging it came with.
You can check out their website here and for $35 you can purchase your own Even Glow Serum.
They are even on amazon click here to check it out
ADVANCED BENEFITS
(via valentiakincare.com/even-glow-serum/)
EVENS SKIN TONE: Vanquish dark spots and skin discoloration, replacing uneven and ill-textured skin with smooth, wrinkle-free skin that leaves you looking flawless and ageless. INCREASES GLOW & RADIANCE: Revitalize your skin with essential fatty ac ids that leave skin smooth and radiant. Smooth skin capable of reflecting light will give your skin a youthful glow and a brilliant shine for that well-rested and refreshed look. ABSORBS RAPIDLY: Moisturizes skin due to the capacity of the hyaluronic acid to absorb water, thereby increasing fluid between cells, giving your skin a smoother and younger appearance. This intense water absorption means no more dry, peeling or cracked skin, even in extreme weather. BOOST COLLAGEN PRODUCTION: The presence of Organic Rosehip Seed oil increases collagen production so your skin retains the elasticity responsible for a youthful appearance and prevents skin sagging associated with aging. Enjoy smooth and supple skin that takes years off your appearance. REDUCES WRINKLES & FINE LINES: Reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles with the help of our foundation 20 % Vitamin C. Special ingredients such us Sea Buckthorn oil plump up the skin, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles in the skin so it is smoother, clearer and younger.
During the winter my skin tends to get really dry and it can be painful. after using this product a few times my cheeks and nose are no longer dry and flakey. I also use this on my hands and knuckles since I wash my hands a lot at work and I handle a lot of paper work that also dries my hands out.
Valentia emailed me directions to make a green tea detox mask with this serum. You can buy a bag of green tea powder and mix it in with the serum to make a paste and apply it like a mask. I plan to do this pretty soon and i can also make smoothies with it.. I will post an update once I try this!
I also use this under my makeup with no problems. I am very satisfied with this product and I have to say this product has earned a spot on my vanity!
I can't wait to try more products from this company in the future. They are very friendly and offered tips to get the best experience with their products and followed up in an email asking how I was enjoying their product. To me that means a lot knowing that a company cares about my experience and makes me what to try their other products. If you haven't checked out their website or products I highly recommend that you do! :)
Have you tried or heard of Valentia before? What products are in your skin care routine?
Leave a comment below id love to hear from you!
Hello! I'm back with yet another great product to tell you about that is sponsored by Brand Backer and InstaNatural! I received these two products free of charge in exchange for my honest, unbiased reviews and opinions.
You can find the first product which is the Age-defying skin clearing serum, here I received a generous sized jar bottle that is 1 fl oz. I love the deep color blue of the jar!
A little info from their site:
Soothes Blemishes - This skin clearing serum also contains ingredients to soothe blemishes and irritated skin, including 2.5% Retinol, 2% Salicylic, Tea Tree Oil & Niacinamide. Our formula contains professional strength 20% Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that repairs damaged skin and protect against future damage, in addition to Hyaluronic Acid, which boosts the skin's ability to retain moisture. These two ingredients work well together to renew skin and reduce the signs of aging, including wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
Best For Men and Women For All Skin Types - Also Reduces Appearance of Fine Lines, Winkles, Sun Spots, Age Spots, & Skin Discoloration
I really like that is has 2% salicylic acid and 2.5 retinol.. I feel like those two ingredients really help at clearing up my skin and it is hard to find products with that amount of salicylic and retinol in them not to mention actually being in the same product together AND being all natural.
HOW I USE IT:
I start by washing my face and I use my Instanatural pore tightening vitamin c facial toner (this stuff is ahhhmazing!) then I ad a dropper full (I love love love these droppers that come in the bottles!)
and apply it to my face and neck. I also use it on my chest or wherever I have some blemishes I use it daily in the morning and night, or if I have to wash my face mid day. I have sensitive skin and it does not dry my skin out.
The next product I am going to tell you about has replaced a high end product and is now a staple in my beauty routine, it is............
THE PORE TIGHTENING VITAMIN C FACIAL TONER!!!
You can find it on their site here at $17.49 for 4 fl oz you cannot beat that deal!
Some info from their site:
Contains 100% natural and organic ingredients – Also has Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that is vital to developing skin health and youthfulness. This antioxidant is needed in order for the body to produce collagen, which is what keeps your skin elastic and supple. Vitamin C is a great way to restore a youthful complexion by helping to strengthen your skin to protect and fight against environment factors that speed up the signs of aging. InstaNatural toner also preps pores for serums and moisturizer and is great for men and women.
Shrinks and purifies pores – When pores are clogged, they appear bigger because they are easier to spot. InstaNatural toner contains powerful astringents - such as Witch Hazel and Tea Tree Oil - which purify your skin by cleaning and tightening pores, shrinking their appearance.
Hydrates and preps skin– Each soothing mist delivers instant refreshment to your face. As your skin is hydrated, the MSM in the formula works to penetrate your pores to increase their elasticity. Your face will become more receptive to absorbing serums, oils, and moisturizers applied thereafter. Our Vitamin C Facial Toner is a great way to prep your skin for your beauty routine.
Combats oily skin – Those with oily skin will also rejoice using this reviving facial toner. The ingredients in InstaNatual toner work to combat and remove excess oil, while restoring your natural pH levels so your skin is balanced. This formula is gentle and suitable for all skin types.
This product smells amazing! Its like a citrus lemon scent and my face feels refreshed and clean after I use it. sometimes ill use it as a pick me up during the day. it does not dry out my skin it actually hydrates my skin. I think I am going to try using this as a setting spray and see how it does. I have been sick for almost 2 weeks so I have not put on any makeup but I will post a follow up with how it works as a setting spray!
I think this is going to be a great product during the summer since I do not wear makeup unless I work. Summer in Texas is brutal and there is no way you can wear makeup with out it melting off of your face, so I love products that I can carry with me and freshen up with.
I love the spray on the bottle, it distributes an even amount of product all over my face and I either let it air dry or ill rub it in.
This is also great for combating oily skin! usually my T-zone is a crazy mess halfway through my morning but I have noticed that my skin is so clear and hydrated and the greasiness is gone. I would literally have to wash my face a few times through out the day.
I am very satisfied with these products. I was very skeptical about them being able to clear up my skin because I have literally bought every facial wash and cream from the stores that have let me down over and over again. I could not be happier with my results and now I'm not embarrassed of how my skin looks!
Have you tried any of InstaNaturals products yet? If so what have you tried? If you haven't tried any of their products which ones have caught your eye?
I see a rose water they have and I am dying to try it!
Thanks for reading and I have another product to share with you soon! Hint: it is from InstaNatural but it isn't skin care related........more so beauty & health related.. Its exciting!
This is post is sponsored by Brand Backer and InstaNatural. I received these products free in exchange for my honest, unbiased opinions.
Hello again!! so I have been trying three products from InstaNatural they include:
1. Youth Express eye gel 1.7 oz
2. Youth Express eye serum 1 Fl oz.
3. Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer 3.4 oz
These products stay on my makeup table!
You can buy the Youth Express Eye Gel here Youth Express Eye Gel here is a description from their site:
Youth Express Eye Gel contains a potent combination of ingredients for maximum results. Hyaluronic Acid hydrates the skin and plumps it up with moisture, while Matrixyl 3000 firms the skin and Plant Stem Cells enhance its strength to protect against sun damage and other external aggressors
Diminishes Dark Circles & Puffiness - This gel provides all around care and protection to the eye area. This powerful formula will help reverse the signs of aging and revert your skin back to its natural youthfulness. It will help you tackle dark circles, eye bags, crow's feet, fine lines, sagginess and puffiness so you can obtain a healthy and radiant appearance.
Safe and Natural Ingredients - We are proud to use natural ingredients in our product with NO parabens, sulfates or alcohol. It is also full of organic ingredients and safe to use on ALL skin types.
Apply to your cheeks and forehead as well to moisturize your skin and prevent premature aging. Improve your tone and texture to attain a smooth and brilliant complexion. Made in the USA in our FDA Registered Facility to ensure top quality for our customers.
The eye gel is nice! It doesn't have a scent and it goes on so smooth and dries quickly and is not sticky or oily. I use it under my makeup with no problems. I use it on my eyes, under my eyes as well as my cheeks and my forehead. One pump of the product is enough to cover these areas.
The directions say you can use it night and day which is what I do and you can actually use it on your entire face to fight against the signs of aging which is pretty good!
For $19.97 I feel like this is a steal for such a great product. I have sensitive skin and I have not had any problems.
I do have a small wrinkle under each of my eyes while they are not noticeable to others I see them and I have noticed that they are going away which makes me HAPPY! :)
The second product which was a bonus product is the Youth Express Eye Serum you can buy the serum here here is a description from their site
Powerhouse Formula – With a combination of Vitamin C, Plant Stem Cells, Astaxanthin, Kojic Acid, Caffeine, Hyaluronic Acid and more, InstaNatural’s Eye Serum is uniquely formulated with innovative key ingredients to help reduce bags, wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin and more.
Diminishes Dark Circles & Puffiness – Caffeine provides a stimulating constricting effect that helps to reduce puffy, tired-looking eyes. Meanwhile, Niacinamide and Kojic Acid work to prevent pigmentation from forming to lighten and fade away those stubborn dark circles.
Reduces Wrinkles & Fine Lines – Other ingredients in the blend – such as Vitamin C, Plant Stem Cells, and Astaxanthin – serve to strengthen skin and reverse existing damage, while Hyaluronic Acid locks in moisture to help plump up skin and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Lightweight Yet Effective – InstaNatural’s Youth Express Eye Serum is lightweight so it absorbs easily into the skin to quickly deliver antioxidant benefits, and it can be used under makeup as well. Each bottle contains no harmful parabens, sulfates or alcohol
This serum smells so good! that's the first thing I noticed. It smells citrusy if that's even a word :)
. The serum dries fast and does not leave a oily or sticky residue which I love because its easy to wear under my makeup.
The directions say to wash and pat your skin dry then apply a toner. Apply the product under your eye from the inner to the outer corner. This product is my savior towards the middle of my work week when my eyes are swollen and puffy and dark. It gives me a refreshed, vibrant look.
Honestly you will not find another product like this for only 21.95 that is all natural and cruelty free.
The last thing I was able to try was the Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer you can purchase it here a brief description from their website :
Maximum Strength Retinol – With a 2.5% concentration of Retinol (Vitamin A), InstaNatural’s Retinol Moisturizer provides a strong dose of this renowned anti-aging antioxidant to deliver optimal results. It is the Perfect Night or Day Cream to Reduce Wrinkles and Other Signs of Aging – Hydrates Skin and Restores Even Skin Tone & Texture for a Youthful Radiance
Reduces Blemishes and Breakouts – Vitamin A has also been known to help with blemishes. By removing dead skin and unclogging pores, Retinol can help control breakouts so you can achieve a clearer, smoother, flawless complexion.
Hydrates Skin – InstaNatural’s Retinol Moisturizer formula contains a creamy blend of nourishing ingredients, such as Jojoba Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, and Shea Butter, which keeps skin well hydrated. Once applied, the retinol cream will leave your skin feeling soft and supple throughout the day.
Before I started using InstaNaturals products my skin was horrible. all of my pores were clogged especially on my cheeks and chin area. Ever since I started using the different products I have received my skin has been looking so much better! my pores are releasing all kinds of gross stuff and the retinol cream has hydrated my skin and helped reduce the dark spots that were left behind from my blemishes.
You can use this in the morning and night but it is recommended that if you have sensitive skin to use it only once a day. Distribute a small amount on your face and rub it in a circular motion let it dry before you apply your makeup. This also dries fast with no oily or sticky residue
A little of this product goes a long way. I use a pea size amount for my face and neck. For 25.95 this is a steal for the amount of product you receive!
my skin is clearing up I love it!
This product shows to be out of stock on their website but you can buy it from InstaNaturals amazon page here
I am very pleased with the products and the results I have had in over a week. If you have been fighting with your skin like I did in the past I recommend that you try these products and also check out all the other products they have to offer.
Have you tried these products from instanatural? If so, comment below and let me know which products you have tried if you haven't what products are you interested in? I'd love to hear from you!
Thank you for reading and I will be back soon with more reviews! XOXO, Phelicia
This post is sponsored by Brand Backer and InstaNatural. The following review is my opinion based on my person experience.
I am excited to tell you about these 3 products I received to try. I mentioned in my previous post that for 2015 my resolution was to take better care of my skin and honestly InstaNatural has made this "journey" easy. All of their products are all natural, cruelty free and the best of all is that they are affordable and perform above the leading department store brands for over half of the cost! It really doesn't get any better than that!
What they sent me:
(1) 16oz jar of 100% all natural* mineral infused Dead Sea Mud Mask,
(1) 1 fl oz bottle of Retinol Serum,
(1) 3.4 fl oz youth express night cream
The first product I tried was the HUGE jar of the Dead sea mask
Product description:
InstaNatural’s Dead Sea Mud Mask is an all-natural detoxifier and purifier that comes from the renowned and sacred Dead Sea. More than a million visitors each year flock to this extraordinary body of water in the Mediterranean, which contains many minerals beneficial to the skin, such as magnesium, sodium, bromine, potassium and calcium. Once applied, this mud mask treatment starts working to absorb excess oil, dirt and toxins from the skin. It is great to expunge acne, pimples and blackheads. It also helps to restore an even skin tone for a smoother complexion.When used as a body treatment, the mud mask can soothe and relieve muscles aches and pains. Whether used on the face or the body, our Dead Sea Mud Mask is a superb in-home spa treatment that will reveal more vibrant, refined, healthier skin.
100% Natural - InstaNatural Dead Sea Mud Mask is made from Pure Dead Sea mud to ensure the highest-quality product. This formula is all-natural and arrives in a 16 oz. jar to deliver premium value.
Apply on the Body - This mask also includes a nourishing blend of Organic Shea Butter, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Calendula Oil, and Hickory Bark Extract that provides unsurpassed moisture to soothe dry and irritated skin. Men, women and teens with skin issues can seek help by using this natural remedy.
Great for Acne & Blemishes - This detoxifier and purifier comes from the renowned and sacred Dead Sea, which is known to contain many minerals beneficial to the skin, such as magnesium, sodium and bromine. These elements work to extract excess oil & dirt from the skin and purge blemishes.
Age-Defying Benefits - Using this facial mask once a week also helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Applying the mask will improve your skin so you can achieve a more even skin tone and smoother complexion.
Blogger Tip: When applying this mask or any facial masks use a foundation brush instead of your hands so you do not transfer oil and bacteria on your face.
I applied a thin layer of this mask on my face avoiding my eyes and mouth area. I let it dry for 10-15 minutes. Once the mask started drying it was starting to itch so I decided to remove the mask even though I still had a few wet spots. When I removed the mask I noticed my face was red from where the product had been. It didn't hurt and it actually cleared a lot of clogged pores I had been fighting with. I read a tip from another beauty blog that you can use any facial oil to help protect your skin from the salt in the mask that is what causes the redness and itching. My skin was already dry from the winter weather. I am going to try the face oil next week when I do my weekly mask or I will apply it to the areas that need it most. Overall I am satisfied with my Dead Sea Mud Mask
The next product I was able to try was the Retinol Serum
Product details : 2.5% Retinol Protection - Protect against the signs of aging with InstaNatural's powerful Retinol Serum that helps reduce the appearance of sun damage, deep wrinkles, dark circles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation and more.
For a Smooth & Even Complexion - Soften blemishes, clear pores and remove dirt, grime and dead facial skin with a combination of Witch Hazel, Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid that leaves your face feeling clean and renewed.
Supercharge Your Skin with Powerful Antioxidants - InstaNatural's potent blend of Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Green Tea antioxidants work together to help repair damaged skin around the face, eyes and neck. Apply day and night for best results.
Offers Superior Hydration - Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin, with moisturizing ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and Organic Jojoba Oil. Provides long-lasting hydration for softer, youthful-looking skin.
After I wash my face and use a toner I apply the retinol serum. I use this at night since I have sensitive skin, if you have normal or oily skin you can use it in the morning and night just make sure to apply sunscreen during the day after using the retinol.
I really like that his bottle has a dropper that makes it easy to dispense the right amount of product. It dries fast and has an amazing, fruity scent. This can be used under your makeup with no problem. I have noticed my breakout spots have started to disappear since using this product.
I love this serum and have incorporated it into my daily skin care routine I haven't had any problems or reactions with it.
The last product that I received was the Youth Express Night Cream
Anti-Aging Benefits - With Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Matrixyl 3000, Rosehip Oil and Argan Oil, our night cream formula helps to improve your complexion and reduces the signs of aging in skin. This facial moisturizer can be used regularly to combat wrinkles, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and more.
Soothes Acne & Blemishes - InstaNatural night cream contains 5% Niacinamide / Vitamin B3, which has been known to help soothe acne by reducing redness and inflammation of irritated skin. It also helps to lessen the appearance of red marks left behind by aggressive breakouts.
Deeper Hydration - This luxurious cream offers ultimate nourishment to the skin. Take a few dabs of this thick and creamy mixture to cover your entire face and neck.
Made in USA - Each bottle of InstaNatural Anti-Aging Night Cream Moisturizer is made in our FDA registered facility.
For this product it is recommended that you clean your face, apply a toner, use any serums if possible then apply a few dabs of the youth express night cream on face and neck.
What I love is that a little bit of this goes a looong way! other creams and moisturizers I had to use a ton of product just to moisturize my skin and you do not want to do that when you are spending a ton of money on a product. Another thing I love as I have said before is that these products are so affordable! This 3.4 oz cream is on sale for 19.99 seriously?! That is a steal.
Overall I am very satisfied with all of my InstaNatural Products and I feel very fortunate and thankful to have been able to try out these all natural products that are helping my face clear up. If you are tired of wasting your money of products full of chemicals and blowing money on mediocre products I suggest you give these products a try.
Have you tried or looked up any InstaNatural products? If so id love to know leave me a comment!
