Ava Shower Filter

Hello Everyone!

Today, I want to talk with you about a wonderful - yet necessary - product I discovered. A product that for some if needed could and will change your life. It is one of the most important things to check when trying to improve the quality and health of your skin and hair. Why a shower filter you ask? I'm here to help answer that today (or at least make you more aware) with the help of the Ava Shower Filter. 

Why do I need a Shower Filter? How can I test my Water Hardness & Other Harmful Chemicals?

A shower filter may be more helpful for some, but are beneficial for everyone. The chemicals in every day water is necessary to keep our water clean, but not always the best for our skin or to drink.  The first step you can take to see if you would benefit from the Ava Shower Filter is to test the Water Hardness. 
  
What Makes Water Hard?

Rain water begins as soft water, but as it flows through lakes, rivers and streams it absorbs hardness minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Over time this creates hard water. While these minerals aren't harmful to your health, they do affect the properties of water and its effectiveness for washing, cleaning and bathing.

Thanks to my handy freebie knowledge and Morton's Salt you can currently get a free testing strip by filling out this form here: Test Your Water. (It may take some time to get to you, but you have my word it is totally free and they will not harass you). This will give you a good head start in the right direction.

What About Other Harmful Chemicals?

You can also test your water for other harmful chemicals by getting water testing kits from your local Walmart or Home Improvement stores. 

Chances are though if your not using a filter, you have some sort of harmful chemicals that you are being exposed to every single day and may not even realize it...

What are the Benefits of the Ava Filter compared to Other Filters?

 

• REMOVES FLUORIDE & OTHER CHEMICALS - Filters 99.9% of Chlorine, Algae, Dirt, Fluoride, Lead, Chloramine, Bacteria, Arsenic, Chromium, Zinc, Copper, Selenium, Mercury and Heavy Metals and many more chemicals. Shower filter also reduces scum build-up using kdf. 

• HEALTHY SKIN - Balances the pH of water. Promotes and maintains smooth, glowing skin, shiny hair, and healthy nails. Effectively reduces hard water and stops itchy and skin after shower.

• EASY INSTALLATION - Fits all modern shower arms. Comes with installation manual and installs easily. No plumber needed.Not sold with shower arm or shower head.

 The installation was really easy! All I had to do was unscrew my water-head, screw the Ava Filter on, and then attach the water-head back on. 

Here are the full directions below:

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• PROFESSIONAL SERVICE - Made in the USA with a 30-day money back guarantee included. Experience powerful results within days or receive 100% of your money back

• LONG-TERM - High performance filter lasts for an entire 9-12 months before needed replacement.

To purchase the Ava Shower Filter they currently have it on sale on Amazon for $59.99 and Prime Eligible.

This is a steal at the moment as I have seen the kit as high as $79. However once you buy the kit, it is good for up to a year and the replacement filters are not as much as the kit. 

My Thoughts 

 

I absolutely love the Ava Shower Filter! I never knew how harmful the chemicals in our water truly were until I educated myself. It was defiantly an investment I think was worth making. At first I didn't notice an immediate difference. About a week in is when I started noticing that my back and skin was less itchy, and I was having to put on moisturizer not nearly as much.

All this time I thought my itchy dry skin was because of where I lived and my genetics. While to some degree it was, a big portion of that issue was my water. Even my dry thick hair has been more manageable, and I never thought that would change. After seeing how much the Ava Shower Filter has done for not only me (but my husband as well), it will defiantly be a product I plan to have in my house long term. 

What do you think about the Ava Shower Filter? Have you ever had a Shower Filter? Have you ever tested your water's chemicals? I love hearing your questions/comments so, feel free to leave them below!

Until next time...

STAY BEAUTIFUL 

by

STAYING YOU

XOXO,

 

 

Ipsy - April 2015

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Hello Everyone! 
I hope everyone is having a spectacular day! That being said, I just received my Ipsy bag for the month of April, and I am excited to share with you what I received. This month's theme was "Beautifully Bohemian" There were some items I wish I would have gotten, but overall I am pretty happy with this month's bag.

If you don't know what Ipsy is, it's a beauty subscription bag designed just for you, (by taking the beauty quiz) that cost $10 a month. The $10 also includes shipping. Beauty Guru Michelle Phan curates the bags, and you generally receive 5 items. 

If you wish to sign up you can sign up through my personal referral link here: Ipsy Sign Up

Every month you receive a bag with your Ipsy items in them. This month was a straw bag with bright colors weaved in it. I don't think it was handmade because I imagine that would take forever, however it definitely looked as though it could be. I thought it was different than our usual monthly bag, and I love it!

Let's see what I got in my bag this month...

Hikari Cosmetics - Blush in "Tango"

"Designed to highlight your complexion, our weightless blush can be used lightly for a fresh look or layered for a dramatic look!. An effortless application to the cheekbones that lasts all day!"

I have heard some people complain about the darkness of the blush, but let me tell you I am the lightest skin tone there is and it looks great. It comes off as a Matte Pink Coral, and I adore it! Not to mention the size of the product we received was full size and is huge. 

Price: $15 (FULL SIZE!)

Lather - Ultra Light Face Lotion

"This gentle nutrient-rich botanical lotion is perfect for normal-to-oily, combination or sensitive skin. This lotion has a lightweight texture, absorbs rapidly and does not leave an oily film on the skin. Special ingredients, such as borage and grape seed oils, make this lotion especially effective for damaged or problem skin. Those with sensitive skin will find it gentle and non-irritating. Paraben-free."

It truly is a light facial lotion. I am surprised even though it is so light - it is extremely hydrating. I also think the smell is quite pleasant as well. It doesn't really have a scent but just a nice "lotion-y" smell which is light. It is all around a really nice facial lotion. The only thing that would take it from great to perfect is if it had an SPF. 

Price: $21 for 2oz (received a half size; value $10.50)

theBalm Cosmetics - Nude Dude "Flirty"

"Introducing theBalm's latest addition to the Nude series... Nude Dude! Get a quick look using any combination of these triple-milled shadows or dress up your look by adding water to transform your favorite shades into loyal liners. The shadows can be worn wet or dry and alone or layered for added intensity, so go ahead and cover (or uncover) your eyes."

Eeek! I love these. The packaging is too cute, and the formula itself is great as well. You could get "Fit" which is a shimmering copper or "Flirty" which is a shimmering golden violet. I am so happy I received "Flirty," because out of the two, I will get the most use out of this one. They don't actually sell these in singles but rather as a palette with 12 different colors in it. My hopes one day is to be able to work with theBalm, they get me excited about makeup and really help fuel my creativity. 

Price: $36 for the Palette (single shadow $3?)

MicaBeauty Cosmetics - Eye Primer

"MicaBeauty Eye Primer is perfect for everything from sealing in eye shadows and foundation, to enhancing your all-day look. Go from shimmer to matte in just seconds. This waterproof formula provides the perfect foundation for a long-lasting, smudge proof look that is designed for your active lifestyle. This eye primer helps even out skin tone as well as extending and intensifying your mineral eye shadows, without creasing, smearing, or fading."

I like the fact that even though its an eye primer you can use it to seal in foundation as well. This particular product is a bit on the pricey side, so I am so glad I got the chance to try it. It is a tad dark for my skin tone however, when I put eyeshadow over it or blend it with an appropriate color you can't tell. 

Price: $44.95 for 8g (received a half size; value $22.48)

Mullein & Sparrow - Lip & Cheek Tint

"The Mullein & Sparrow Mini Lip & Cheek Tint is an all-natural, sheer, tinted balm that gives your lips and cheeks a slight flush and dewy finish. Apply desired amount to lips for nourishment, protection, and color. Dab a small amount on cheeks as a light cream blush. It’s perfect for beauty on-the-go; it brightens the whole face with a sheer rosey flush for the cheeks, gloss for the lips, and a sweet orange scent!"

I was pleasantly surprised with this because it wasn't nearly as dark as it looks. It comes off a really light color and gives my lips and cheeks a nice dewy finish. I also really enjoy the packaging and nice orange scent.

Price: $10 (FULL SIZE!)

BONUS ITEM

Bonus item's are items you get for redeeming points that you earn from reviewing the products, sharing, and referring on Ipsy.

Benefit Cosmetics - Cha Cha Tint

"This mango-tinted stain beautifully blushes lips & cheeks with a tropical coral hue. Smooch-proof & smudge-proof, our sheer stain has a natural finish that will leave you looking deliciously vibrant for hours."

When I first received this I was expecting to open it and see a sponge like applicator. Much to my surprise it looks just like a nail polish type applicator. However, the color is really beautiful, and I do enjoy it. It may just take me a little practice and time to get use to the whole application of it.

Price: $30 (FULL SIZE!)

This month was a really great value, at almost $91! Not only did I get to try some new products, but got a great deal since I only paid $10. What do you think about this month's Ipsy "Beautifully Bohemian?" What variation did you receive? I love hearing your questions/comments, so feel free to leave them below.

Until next time STAY BEAUTIFUL by STAYING YOU!

XOXO,

Scentbird

 

Hello Everyone! 

I hope all of you are having a fantastic weekend so far. Today, I want to talk to you about a new (to me at least) perfume subscription service. Not to far back I did a review on a perfume subscription service, but this one is sets itself apart with a different twist. To understand what I mean lets talk about exactly how Scentbird works.

Each month you receive one generous 0.27 oz/8 ml spray. The subscription service is customized to what you like by taking their Fragrance quiz. You get to pick from 350+ designer fragrances that are 100% authentic. You can pick which scent you would like to try or be surprised. It runs $14.95 a month, and the longer you sign up for the better discount you get on your subscription price. 

To sign up go here: SIGN UP FOR SCENTBIRD.

Now, lets see what I received in my Scentbird package this month...

 

Here is a first look at the package you will receive each month. I love the simplicity of it, and the padding of the envelope is done very well so that the perfume doesn't get damaged.

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Each month is comes with a detailed card on how to use as well as how to replace old vial to put a new scent in. It also includes information on how you can rate your scent and update your scent selection. 

 

Here is the container that your perfume comes in. Indeed a very generous size!

 

I adore how they have their logo on the top of the vial. I think it is so cute!

If it is your first month you will also received a sleek case to store your perfume as seen below.

 

 The next card tells you what scent you received this month. I opted to receive the perfume of the month for April which is: Clique by Roble.

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 On the card it tells you the key notes in the perfume. In Clique by Roble it has Blood Orange, Jasmine, Violet, Vanilla, and Chocolate. I would never pick this out myself, but it is me in every way!

It is described as an "irresistible, buttery Oriental scent that layers the freshness of Blood Orange Margarita on top, with sensual dessert notes from the chef's signature recipe - French Toast Crunch."

I don't really smell any sort of food in this perfume, to me it is more Jasmine and Vanilla than anything. Nonetheless, I think it smells wonderful. I am so happy I found a new perfume I adore, and I think that is what this subscription is all about!

If you wish to sign up to Scentbird you can do so, by using my personal referral link by signing up here (it is much appreciate if you do): 

 https://www.scentbird.com/r/NTMzODk=

What do you think about Scentbird? Have you signed up for any sort of perfume subscriptions before? Do you think this is something you would like? I love hearing your questions/comments so, feel free to leave them down below!

Until next time... 

STAY BEAUTIFUL by STAYING YOU!

XOXO,

 

[Re] fresh Skin Therapy - Peptide & Intense Eye Recovery Serum

I hope everyone is having a wonderful day. Today, I want to share with you a new company I had the opportunity of working with again. [Re] fresh Skin Therapy, makes some pretty cool products - acid peels, gel peels, cleansers, moisturizers, and so much more! Today, I got to try out their new Peptide + Intense Eye Recovery Serum, and am starting to really love it.

Who Is [re] fresh Skin Therapy?

"Created in 2013 by a busy power couple from Boston with a combined 30 years in the beauty industry, [re]fresh Skin Therapy’s philosophy is real results from highly effective therapies which are safe and natural, for healthy skin. Our goal is to use only environmentally-friendly products and business practices whenever possible."

What sets us apart:

"Our products are produced in the USA using state-of-the-art equipment at a climate controlled, FDA-registered facility operated using cGMP (Certified Good Manufacturing Practices)."

"We regularly conduct stringent quality control tests to ensure high-quality and safe products. Some of the tests include: pH balance tests, Viscosity tests, Appearance (aesthetics) tests, Odor tests, Microbial tests, Stability tests and Selective Heavy Metal tests."

"We use USP-grade ingredients which are all botanically-derived; we never test on animals or use animal-derived ingredients."

"Our products are always free from Parabens, Perfumes, Dyes, and Phlalates."

I love that they put a lot of time into their products, I don't know of many companies who put their products through quite as many test's as this company does. I have also been a very strong advocate of buying and reviewing products that are paraben free. It is a must in a product for me, so I like that this is free of all those harsh products. 

I had no idea that they had been around so long in the beauty industry, but glad I am having the opportunity to try them out now.

If you wish to check out more about them or buy their products you can go to their official website located here: http://www.refreshskintherapy.com or buy them through Amazon store located here: Amazon Store.

The Products/My Thoughts

From their site...

   Refresh Skin Therapy's Peptide+ Intense Eye Recovery Serum is a dynamic and effective dark circle elimination treatment. Using an active ingredient mix of peptides derived from purified soy, rice, and yeast, the formula positively stimulates blood circulation away from the eyes to dramatically reduce dark circles and puffiness.

Benefits 
• Reduces dark circles and puffiness around the eyes 
• Strengthens connective tissue around the eye 
• Restores important moisture levels 
• Soothes and softens the skin 
• Is safe and gentle to use around the eyes 

More details:
The specific peptides used in this formula help improve microcirculation by strengthening the layers of the skin, 
which regulate collagen formation and elasticity. Thanks to the rejuvenated skin cells, increased microcirculation within the delicate blood vessels. improves the appearance of dark circles. 


The Natural Plant Extract and Hyaluronic Acid base delivers a moisturizing boost to dry skin. Seaweed is rich in antioxidants and protective value. Hyaluronic Acid is a natural moisturizer that attracts and retains moisture from the environment.

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The first think I noticed when I received this serum, was the packaging! It is is super cute, creative, and versatile. I love how all you have to do is take off the cap, unlock it (by turning it at the top), and you're ready to go. You receive a generous amount of the product for the price. It is a clear gel, and goes on clear and clean.

After the first use (seen below) I significantly noticed my eyes weren't as dark and lines were starting to fade. I am amazed at the results I have received so far, and it will definitely be a staple product in my skin care regimen.

I would highly recommend giving this product a try. I can't wait to see the long term effects it will have for my skin, and I am happy to say I think [Re] fresh Skin Therapy has made another wonderful product.

If you wish to purchase this product you can purchase it on their official site or purchase it on Amazon which is currently $29.50 and Prime eligible by going here.

I want to know! What do you think about the company [Re] fresh Skin Therapy and their products? Have you ever tried any of these products before? If not, which one do you think would be your favorite? I love hearing your questions and comments below. So, feel free to leave them below.

XOXO,

Dial - Miracle Oil Hand Soap + GIVEAWAY

I hope everyone is having a wonderful day so far! Recently, we talked about Dial's Miracle Oil Body Wash. Come to find out, they also have a wonderful version of handsoap as well! Introducing the Dial Miracle Oil Hand Soap Infused with Marula Oil. 

Just like the body wash, to really understand the great benefits that Dial's Miracle Oil hand soap has, you must understand why Marula Oil is so important. Having worked for a company in the past who used this ingredient in their products, it is something I really understand and treasure.

The Marula fruit comes from a tree in South Africa. Inside this fruit there is a powerful oil that is a fast-absorbing antioxidant with amazing anti-aging benefits. It works to cure a variety of different skin problems. It works to eliminate sunburn, redness, scars, and cracks in the skin just to name a few. So, as you can see when you add it into a hand wash, naturally the outcome is a wonderful product!

The Marula Oil by itself in my opinion has a dreadful smell. However, the way Dial infused it in their hand soap smells absolutely amazing. To me it has a nice floral scent unlike any other I have previously smelled.

The Dial Miracle Oil Hand Soap brings nourishment and skin hydration to your hand washing experience. By letting the smooth feel of Miracle Oil gently remove dirt from your hands, it leaves them feeling smooth and refreshed.

The Dial Hand Soap also uses Micro Oil technology to nourish and deeply hydrate your skin while protecting it from skin damaging free radicals. 

You can pick up Dial Miracle Oil Hand Soap in almost anywhere hand soap is sold. It's debut was in February however, if you still have trouble finding it you can go here to contact them.

Haven't purchased Dial Miracle Oil Hand Soap or love it so much you want another bottle? Enter the Dial Miracle Oil Hand Soap Giveaway below! I will be giving away 2 bottles away to 2 lucky winners.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

US Only. 2 Sets of Entries Per IP address. There will be 2 winners, each winner will receive a coupon for one free bottle of Dial Hand Soap. Givaway Ends 4/26/15 at 12:00:00 AM EST. Rules Subject To Change. 

What do you think about Dial Miracle Oil Hand Soap? Have you ever purchased any of Dial's hand soaps? I love hearing your questions/comments so, feel free to leave them below!

Until Next Time

XOXO,