Wednesday, May 21, 2014

InstaNatural 100% Pure Emu Oil For Skin & Hair Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Do you have dry skin or dry brittle hair? Emu Oil has MANY benefits.

Emu oil can help to restore skin elasticity, which is helpful for stretch marks, acne and smoothing wrinkles. Its anti-inflammatory, hypo-allergenic, non-pore irritating properties make pure emu oil great skin moisturizers. It is safe, gentle and won't irritate the skin or clog pores.



Another great application of emu oil is for hair and scalp health. The fatty acids in emu oil make it ideal for dry hair and scalp issues. Emu oil’s natural deep moisturizing properties along with added botanical oils like rosemary oil can even help promote hair growth. This combination of emu oil with pure essential oils also leave hair soft, shiny, silky and full of body.

REVIEW:

Emu oil is known for its moisturizing benefits, but also for its anti-inflammatory and calming/soothing effects on dry, irritated, or itchy skin as well. I'd never tried a product like this before, so it was interesting to test out.


The oil is very thick and gloppy, almost gelatinous, but it absorbs very quickly. I was pleasantly surprised because I thought it'd be greasy and oily, but it was more like a jelly lotion than anything.

It definitely was non-irritating and a good moisturizer. I've yet to apply it onto any inflamed skin, but will have to keep it in mind for the future! Overall a great all-natural product to add to your moisturizing routine. It is a bit on the pricier side so I don't know if I'd actually spend $23 on this when I could just buy regular lotion.

I will be making a comprehensive post of all of InstaNatural's products including the Vitamin C serum, Moroccan rose water, Moroccan Argan oil, and Rosehip Seed oil, at my main blog.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

InstaNatural Rosehip Seed Oil Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Great Skin Is Just A Few Drops Away!
Add InstaNatural Rosehip seed oil to your routine for:
• Damage caused to skin due to sun-exposure 
• Getting help with dryness, roughness and more 
• Decreasing old and hardened scars and diminishing the appearance of marks, including acne scars, burn scars, dark spots and stretch marks 
• Nourishing the skin deeply to make the skin smoother and more even. 
• Shinier hair and nail care.

Give your Skin a chemical free 'NATURAL' Moisturizer!
• InstaNatural Rosehip seed oil is 100% pure and USDA certified organic, and unrefined to give you safe and effective multi benefits. 
• Contains Essential fatty acids (Omega 6, 3 and 9), which is beneficial for healing the skin.

This was an interesting oil to try because it's a little different from the usual oil getup in my beauty routine. I had tried InstaNatural's Argan oil (which I LOVED) and thought this oil would be similar, but it's a bit thicker in consistency (a little oilier) and has a slightly flowery, seedy scent to it. It definitely isn't overwhelming or even that noticeable, as it disappears after rubbing it in.

The main product claims of rosehip seed oil is obviously to help with skin dryness, but also to help heal stretch marks and faded scars. Interesting! I have stretch marks on the insides of my thighs due to weight gain/loss, so I thought this would be the perfect oil to try.

I used it for a few weeks and can't say I've had immediate results with the scar reduction, but I love how it glides onto my skin. It definitely is a great moisturizer and a non-sticky, all-natural, and organic way to smooth your skin. I will definitely continue using this oil to see what happens.

I will be making a comprehensive post of all of InstaNatural's products including the Vitamin C serum, Moroccan rose water, Moroccan Argan oil, and Emu oil, at my main blog.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Monday, May 19, 2014

Adovia Dead Sea Mud Shampoo Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Adovia's Dead Sea Mud Shampoo is specially formulated with natural ingredients such as Dead Sea Mud, Chamomile & Olive Oil to bring deep hydration and moisture to the scalp, relieving itching and flakiness. Dead Sea Mud has been known for centuries for it's healing properties and people travel from all over the world to come and experience it's effects at the Dead Sea. Dead Sea Salts and Mud have been featured on CNN, in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Dead Sea Mud contains the highest concentration of minerals found in mud anywhere in the world. Finally the benefits of Dead Sea mud and salt are presented to you in shampoo form! These minerals are all essential for proper skin function and help to regulate moisture retention as well as hydration. Your complete satisfaction is guaranteed.

My review:
I actually had a really great experience with this shampoo and am excited to continue using it.

The texture and consistency of the shampoo worried me a bit... it has the consistency of "cheap" shampoos, sort of rubbery and thick like those you find at the dollar store or in party favor bags. However, that's probably my only criticism because it definitely didn't feel like a cheap shampoo when I used it!

It lathers VERY well, which I know isn't an indicator for high-quality shampoo, but it's a plus for me because I have thick, long hair that some shampoos just don't cover. Adovia's Dead Sea Mud Shampoo was both clarifying and moisturizing. When my hair dried from my shower, my hair felt luscious and full, without being weighted down or tacky like some shampoos make my hair feel. I also used a good conditioner with this, so that probably is a factor as well. I can't wait to try this with the Adovia conditioner to see if I get even better results.


A comprehensive review will be posted to my main blog featuring all of the Adovia products I have tried, including the masks, shampoo, and conditioner.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Day by Day Beauty Vitamin C Serum Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Day by Day Beauty's Exclusive Vitamin C Serum provides thirsting skin with antioxidants & rich, hydrating ingredients.

These ingredients naturally...
brighten skin tone
diminish superficial fine lines and wrinkles
reverse sun damage effects
lighten acne scarring
restore healthy elasticity
clarify skin
shrink pores
retain moisture


Vitamin C Serum is the #1 natural approach to anti-aging on the market today, and is endorsed by physicians, aestheticians, and celebrity figures like Dr. Oz.

This serum is safe & effective for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Our premium formula is plant-based, without parabens, alcohol, or fillers. And of course made Cruelty-Free in the USA.

Day by Day Beauty's unique Vitamin C Serum is...
gentle & NON-STICKY
ideal CONCENTRATION of Vitamin C for maximal absorption for any skin
packaged in a COBALT BLUE bottle minimizes light exposure
uses a PUMP APPLICATOR to minimizes serum’s contact with air & bacteria
Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid balanced

I have been using this serum for about five weeks now, and while in some respect, I can feel my face absorbing my moisturizer better, I think it is too harsh on my skin. My skin has felt rougher the past few weeks, and I've had more acne outbreaks than usual. While acne and sensitive skin is a problem for me overall, it got noticeably worse after and while using this product. I had pretty smooth and blemish-free skin before using this product.

The main product claims for this serum are that it minimizes wrinkles and fine lines AND helps with uneven skin tone. Overall it seems like this product would increase skin elasticity and give a "luminous glow" but none of these happened to me. I am not at that stage where I need to worry about wrinkles yet (I'm in the 18-24 age range), but the main reason I wanted to try this product was to even out my skin tone, for instance, for the sun damage and acne scarring. Sadly, this didn't happen either, and it in fact exacerbated my acne.

The serum itself is hardly a serum; its consistency is more like that of a toner. It looks like water, though maybe a little less clear (it has a translucent shade, like starchy water) but is just as runny as water. It does not have a particular fragrance (which is good, because I'd rather it be all-natural than have added fragrances), but it does have an almost-medicinal smell to it. It is not noticeable when applied, thought.

It isn't greasy at all but after putting it all over my face, my face does feel a little sticky and tacky, rather than soft and smooth. That's why I definitely recommend using a moisturizer over this; the product itself does not really moisturize (even though it claims to have moisturizing ingredients). 

What I did love is the packaging. Rather than the dropper bottle that other serums use, this uses an easy, sanitary pump bottle. I like this because you don't risk contaminating the entire bottle every time you open it, and also because it's spill-proof (for when you're traveling).

I don't think I would purchase this serum on my own. I will not be using it again after I finish my bottle, just because I don't think it benefitted my skin at all.

I will be making a Vitamin C comparison post for all the Vitamin C serums I have tried, on my main blog.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. You can purchase it on Amazon by clicking here. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

DSpeed Fast-Melt Vitamin D3 Tablets Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

DSpeed™ is a delicious, natural peach- flavored, sugar free fast-melt tablet that melts in your mouth in seconds. It is formulated with only the highest quality of Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) from lanolin and helps the body replenish this nutrient to fight off possible Vitamin D deficiencies.

Organized by The International Taste & Quality Institute (iTQi) in Belgium, DSpeed™ was tested by a taste panel of Chefs and Sommeliers within Europe's most prestigious culinary and sommeliers associations. The judging process was conducted on a blind basis without any kind of labeling. DSpeed™ earned a three star Superior Taste Award by The International Taste & Quality Institute (iTQi) in Belgium.

DSpeed™ Vitamin D3 fast-melt tablets also support bone and teeth formation, the immune system and overall cellular health.* The fast-melt technology used in DSpeed™ allows for a great-tasting tablet to dissolve in the mouth with the use of water; making it ideal for children, the elderly, athletes and those with an active lifestyle.

Please Note: *If you are allergic to corn, this product is not for you. We use sorbitol, a natural sweetener, as a substitute to sugar and sucralose. We naturally derive our sorbitol from corn. Although there is zero corn in this product, sorbitol has been known to cause digestive issues to people with sensitivity to corn.

My review: I loved these vitamin D3 tablets! They are fast-dissolving and have a yummy peach flavor that DOESN'T taste like gross medicine like most vitamins do. I love how this is sugar-free as well, as it's really sweet.

They are just regular white tablets that you don't need to take with water. Just stick it on your tongue and it'll dissolve.


Overall I'm very satisfied with these vitamins and would definitely try these again and even buy them. I just wish there was a multi-vitamin version of these (with Vitamin A, C, E, Calcium, etc.) that tasted just as great.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Private Island Party Fourth of July Collection

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

In the July 4th spirit, PrivateIslandParty.com was generous enough to send me a few products from their Fourth of July collection. I received three different items, each which I will review separately:

The first item was a Patriotic Star Beach Ball. This was your standard 16" beach ball that comes deflated and we had to blow it up. I didn't appreciate the strong cheap plastic smell, but I suppose almost all beach balls have that smell to them. It popped after my dog sunk his teeth into it so I didn't get to use it that long, but I imagine it would be perfect for backyard volleyball and Fourth parties.

The second item was this white Patriotic Skimmer Hat. I received two of these plastic hats and honestly they were my least favorite item in the box. They are just a regular plastic hat (made out of the same material they use to make plastic cups—very cheap and flimsy) with a red, white, and blue sticker. I could not imagine ever wearing this hat, especially since it's not even that festive of a costume hat, but it's a nice gesture that Private Island Party sent me this.

The last product I received was a rubber glow ring that I don't have a picture of, but it was pretty cool. It was in the shape of a huge star with red, white, and blue patterns, and it flashes when you push the button on the bottom. Definitely cool for parties, especially when watching fireworks at night!

Overall I got the feeling that PrivateIslandParty is the wholesale version of stores like Spirit or Party City, except the material is a lot cheaper and lower in quality since it is the wholesale versions. I don't think I'd personally order from here because nothing really blew me away, nor did any of the products make me feel particularly excited for the Fourth of July, but I like the cheap prices and online availability.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

MCT Energy Bars Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

The LipiX© MCT Bar is a delicious meal replacement formula comprising Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT), protein, Fiber and Omega-3 DHA to support brain health.First ever food with high Medium Chain Triglycerides (7g of MCTs per bar), a type of saturated fat found in human breast milk, coconut oil and palm oils and are known to generate Ketone bodies, a source of energy, used by brain cells.
LipiX© MCT Bars are specially designed to retain DHA stable in an energy bar. LipiX© MCT Bars have NO ADDED SUGAR and all of its sweetness is derived from vegetable glycerin (from Vegitable Oils) and fruits. With MCT Bars, no need to buy MCT oil, DHA capsules and protein separately. LipiX© MCT Bar is a science based meal replacement health food with nine organic ingredients.

My review:
Honestly, as a health and fitness freak, I'm a huge fan of testing out energy bars and was really excited to try out the box of Vanilla Lipix MCT Energy Bars that I received. The stats look great for an energy bar—low carb and high fat and protein—but that's where my praise ends. The texture and consistency of the bar itself is terrible. It's very hard, but not crunchy; in fact, it's entirely sticky and chewy like a frozen piece of taffy! It's also very oily and greasy... the oil actually spills off the bar. Not something I like, especially since I don't like high-grease foods. I know these are the healthy MCT oils and everything, but it was still hard to palate. The bar itself wasn't too sweet, which I liked, but because of it's chewiness (it stuck to my teeth like candy!) and the oily taste, I just couldn't finish the whole bar. I imagine if I had finished it, however, it would have been very filling and quite an appetite suppressant because it left an overall bad taste in my mouth.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Adovia Dead Sea Mud Facial Mask Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.


  • Facial Mask Tightens and Purifies Pores leaving Clear, Younger Complexion
  • Dead Sea Mud Quickly Reduces Acne and Pimples
  • Over 21 Minerals Present in Dead Sea Mud Mask help to keep skin healthier and act as acne treatment
  • A Facial Dead Sea Mud Mask Facial Treatment in Spas cost from $70-120. This Mask contains 30 Sessions!
  • Can be Used as Spot Treatment & Blackhead Remover


  • I've used this mask four times and while nothing bad has happened to my skin, I can't say it has radically improved my acne either.

    The consistency of the mask is like actual mud; it isn't clumpy or anything, but comes out in a smooth paste, like clay. It isn't necessarily exfoliating, but there are little gritty particles like real clay or mud. It does go on very smoothly and spreads on my face evenly, but it didn't make my skin feel softer or smoother. Maybe it was because I used this in the shower primarily, but it really made no difference other than leaving a tacky residue on my face, so I had to use my regular cleanser afterwards.

    I have pretty sensitive and acne-prone skin so I'm glad this mask didn't cause any blemishes or irritate my face, but it's hardly a miracle product either.

    A comprehensive review will be posted to my main blog featuring all of the Adovia products I have tried, including the mask, shampoo, and conditioner.

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    Saturday, May 10, 2014

    Garcinia Cambogia Advanced/Slender Cleanse Bundle Review

    Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

  • YOU WILL LOSE WEIGHT FASTER USING A COMPLETE FAT BURNING SYSTEM...It's a proven fact! - Just using Garcinia alone won't do it...YOU NEED THE ULTIMATE WEIGHT LOSS BUNDLE!- High Potency Garcinia Cambogia Advanced working synergistically with Gentle Slender Cleanse Advanced. Together they will Deliver Safe, Effective, Convenient and All Natural Fat Burning Weight Loss!!!
  • AS SEEN ON TV Doctor's "Miracle Fat Burner in a Bottle" FULL STRENGTH Garicina Cambogia Advanced and the Perfect Gentle Colon Cleanse of Slender Cleanse Advanced for your PERFECT Slimming 1-2 PUNCH!
  • Burns Away Stubborn Belly, thigh and Butt Fat Yet Still Has Less than 5% Caffeine for "Jitter-Free" - MAXIMUM Weight Loss, Energy Boost and A General Sense of Calm Well-being!
  • 100% Natural Veggie Caps with a FULL 60% HCA-Absolutely NO Fillers, NO Binders, NO Artificial Ingredients, GLUTEN-FREE, Made in the USA in a FDA Certified and GMP Approved State of the Art Facility!

  • I have heard a lot about Garcinia Cambogia as a appetite suppressant and decided to give it a try. I am by no means overweight but overeating has always been a problem for me (mostly due to guilt) so I've always wanted to lose a few vanity pounds by stopping the snacking.

    Green Coffee Bean Extract can apparently increase energy and "detox" your body.

    This review is purely based off my own experience with the products.

    Long story short, this supplement bundle pretty much did nothing for me. Nothing good, nothing bad.

    I took one pill before breakfast as directed, but didn't eat any less. I did feel slightly fuller and ready to start my day, but that may have just been a placebo effect.

    One of the most noticeably effects were extreme hunger pangs around lunchtime. You are supposed to take two pills a day, which I did, but noticed nothing during the two weeks I used the product.

    I wasn't any hungrier throughout the evening, but I wasn't eating less either.


    I took two pills for almost two weeks and saw nothing. No changes in appetite and no changes in weight. Sorely disappointing. To make matters worse, since this supplement is NOT FDA-approved, there is nothing we know about its consequences to our health. Even Dr. Oz isn't completely reliable considering he advertises for profit. There are hundreds of websites advertising the "health benefits" of Garcinia Cambogia, as well as an equal amount warning you about the DANGEROUS side effects, but all of them seem like sponsored or scammy sites. I haven't read one genuine review saying this actually worked for anyone, so I became really skeptical.


    I stopped using the product because it had no effect on me and possible health risks. I will not completely debunk the supposed health benefits since I did not try both products that long, and because maybe I am an outlier in terms of weight loss solutions, but it just didn't work for me.

    I also just noticed the health claims say: NOTE: This product is specifically designed for men and women that NEED TO LOSE MORE THAN 10 LBS, which definitely was not my issue. I was trying to lose 5 pounds, 10 max over a course of a few months. Maybe I just wasn't a good target group for this product.

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    Valentia 20% Vitamin C Even Glow Serum - Antioxidant Skin Treatment Review

    Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

    Valentia's Even Glow Serum with 20% Vitamin C's Benefits:

    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 acids that leave skin smooth and visibly brighter. 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.

    BOOSTS COLLAGEN PRODUCTION:
    The presence of Organic Rosehip Seed oil to support Vitamin C 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 as Hyaluronic Acid and Organic Sea Buckthorn oil work to plump up the skin, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles in the skin so it is smoother, clearer and younger.

    I love how this serum is different from other Vitamin C serums on the market. It is a bright yellow-orange color and smells and feels like orange juice concentrate—yummy! It is slightly sticky when applied on the face—like orange juice—but once it dries and you apply moisturizer on top (which is a MUST!), it feels fine.

    I did not use this product for the wrinkle reducing properties or "youthful glow," but rather to help fade sun damage and my acne scars. Unfortunately, while it is a delicious smelling product with all-natural ingredients, it didn't help with either skin problem.

    In fact, I would say it made my skin a bit rougher and made my acne slight worse. I contacted Valentia about the issue and they were very helpful, giving me tips and seeming genuinely concerned for my skin. I reduced my usage to once per day (only in the mornings) and while I didn't see my acne worsen, it still didn't do much for my skin.

    I would give 5 stars to customer service—they are quick and attentive—but the product itself just did not work for me. It made the texture of my skin very rough and didn't do anything for my acne scars or sun damage. 

    I will be making a Vitamin C comparison post for all the Vitamin C serums I have tried, on my main blog.


    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C + E + Hyaluronic Acid Serum Review

    Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

    I have been using this serum for about three weeks now, and while in some respect, I can feel my face absorbing my moisturizer better, I think it is too harsh on my skin. My skin has felt rougher the past few weeks, and I've had more acne outbreaks than usual. While acne and sensitive skin is a problem for me overall, it got noticeably worse after and while using this product. I had pretty smooth and blemish-free skin before using this product.

    The main product claims for this serum are that it minimizes wrinkles and fine lines AND helps with uneven skin tone. Overall it seems like this product would increase skin elasticity and give a "luminous glow" but none of these happened to me. I am not at that stage where I need to worry about wrinkles yet (I'm in the 18-24 age range), but the main reason I wanted to try this product was to even out my skin tone, for instance, for the sun damage and acne scarring. Sadly, this didn't happen either, and it in fact exacerbated my acne.

    I contacted the seller to see if this was normal, and received no response.

    The serum itself is hardly a serum; its consistency is more like that of a toner. It looks like water, though maybe a little less clear (it has a translucent shade, like starchy water) but is just as runny as water. It does not have a particular fragrance (which is good, because I'd rather it be all-natural than have added fragrances), but it does have an almost-medicinal smell to it. It is not noticeable when applied, thought.

    It isn't greasy at all but after putting it all over my face, my face does feel a little sticky and tacky, rather than soft and smooth. That's why I definitely recommend using a moisturizer over this; the product itself does not really moisturize (even though it claims to have moisturizing ingredients). 

    I don't think I would purchase this serum on my own. I will not be using it again after I finish my bottle, just because I don't think it benefitted my skin at all.

    I will be making a Vitamin C comparison post for all the Vitamin C serums I have tried, on my main blog.

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    Mystellic Nature's Best Vitamin C Serum Review

    Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

    The Secret to Reverse Signs of Aging, Making You Look and Feel Younger!

    This is The Highest Quality, Most Potent & Effective Vitamin C Serum on The Market Are You Looking Older than You Feel? Natures Best Vitamin C Serum is Clinically Proven and tested to:

    • Works for all skin types, dry, oily, sensitive as its made from Pure Natural Organic Ingredients. 
    • Reduces acne by removing toxins & creating collagen for firmer, plumper, healthier skin.
    • Minimizes Redness of scars and acne by lightening pigment showing a more youthful you.
    • Is the perfect consistency for applying, not to watery.

    Amazing Benefits to Your Skin are:

    • Instantly gain a smoother complexion and tighter skin for a more radiant beautiful you.
    • Antioxidants reduce skin damage caused by years of aging, uv rays & pollution.
    • Reverses the effects of aging, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
    • Stimulate the synthesis of collagen making your skin look years younger, firmer, & more vibrant

    If Dramatic Results are What you are Looking for, We have the Product for You

    I have been using this serum for about three weeks now, and while in some respect, I can feel my face absorbing my moisturizer better, I think it is too harsh on my skin. My skin has felt rougher the past few weeks, and I've had more acne outbreaks than usual. While acne and sensitive skin is a problem for me overall, it got noticeably worse after and while using this product. I had pretty smooth and blemish-free skin before using this product.

    The main product claims for this serum are that it minimizes wrinkles and fine lines AND helps with uneven skin tone. Overall it seems like this product would increase skin elasticity and give a "luminous glow" but none of these happened to me. I am not at that stage where I need to worry about wrinkles yet (I'm in the 18-24 age range), but the main reason I wanted to try this product was to even out my skin tone, for instance, for the sun damage and acne scarring. Sadly, this didn't happen either, and it in fact exacerbated my acne.

    I contacted the seller to see if this was normal, and they said Vitamin C serums were typically GOOD for acne. However, for me, that obviously wasn't the case.

    The serum itself is hardly a serum; its consistency is more like that of a toner. It looks like water, though maybe a little less clear (it has a translucent shade, like starchy water) but is just as runny as water. It does not have a particular fragrance (which is good, because I'd rather it be all-natural than have added fragrances), but it does have an almost-medicinal smell to it. It is not noticeable when applied, thought.

    It isn't greasy at all but after putting it all over my face, my face does feel a little sticky and tacky, rather than soft and smooth. That's why I definitely recommend using a moisturizer over this; the product itself does not really moisturize (even though it claims to have moisturizing ingredients).

    I will be making a Vitamin C comparison post for all the Vitamin C serums I have tried, on my main blog.

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    Thursday, May 1, 2014

    Here's your chance to win a bottle of 1600mg Garcinia Cambogia if you'd like to try the product yourself

    Life & Food 1600 MG Garcinia Cambogia Review

    Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

    GARCINIA CAMBOGIA EXTRACT 1600 MG
     
    WHY CHOOSE LIFE & FOOD GARCINIA CAMBOGIA 1600 MG?
    Our product contains a Strengthened 800 Mg per capsule, as opposed to most 500 Mg capsule products out there. The UPGRADED STRENGTH formula enhances the effects and accounts for reduced absorption rates when taken by various individuals.

    The single biggest factor contributing to weight-loss benefits are dependent on the potency of the Garcinia Cambogia extract used. The majority of Garcinia Cambogia products either use:


    • Low quality mass produced extracts.
    • Low potency 500 mg capsules that do NOT get absorbed by our bodies.
    • Are NOT manufactured with the Garcinia Cambogia extract used from the original clinical trials. 

    Our products are sourced and tested to make sure they are of the HIGHEST quality and bio-availability in the market.

    This product is stimulant free and also promote a balanced, lighter mood by boosting Serotonin levels without giving you the jitters as some weight loss supplements do. Allergen-free, our product uses a vegetable capsule with no fillers or binders, mixing Garcinia Cambogia fruit rind with calcium and potassium for added absorption your body needs.

    Made and manufactured in world class GMP certified facilities in the USA. This product is free of contaminants, fillers, binders, or toxins. Quality and safety are a primary focus for all Life & Food branded products.


    My review:
    I had heard a lot about Garcinia Cambogia as a appetite suppressant and decided to give it a try. I am by no means overweight but overeating has always been a problem for me (mostly due to guilt) so I've always wanted to lose a few vanity pounds by stopping the snacking.

    This review is purely based off my own experience with the product.

    Long story short, this supplement pretty much did nothing for me. Nothing good, nothing bad.

    I took one pill before breakfast as directed, but didn't eat any less. I did feel slightly fuller and ready to start my day, but that may have just been a placebo effect.

    One of the most noticeably effects were extreme hunger pangs around lunchtime. You are supposed to take two pills a day, one before a meal (I did breakfast and lunch), but because these pill are 1600mg each and Dr. Oz recommends no more than 3000mg per day, I only took one pill, and that was in the mornings before breakfast. For about a week, I got that really hollow stomach feeling around lunchtime so I scarfed down a quick lunch every day.

    I wasn't any hungrier throughout the evening, but I wasn't eating less either.


    I took one pill a day for almost two weeks and saw nothing. No changes in appetite and no changes in weight. Sorely disappointing. To make matters worse, since this supplement is FDA approved, there is nothing we know about its consequences to our health. Even Dr. Oz isn't completely reliable considering he advertises for profit. There are hundreds of websites advertising the "health benefits" of Garcinia Cambogia, as well as an equal amount warning you about the DANGEROUS side effects, but all of them seem like sponsored or scammy sites. I haven't read one genuine review saying this actually worked for anyone, so I became really skeptical.


    I stopped using the product because it had no effect on me and possible health risks. If I had purchased this product, I would return it right away.

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.