Revitalize and Detoxify Skincare for the bold and hungry [Clay mask & Serum]

All Natural~ Organic vibes~
A lot of chemicals in a lot of skincare and make up products these days can cause damages to our skin in the long run so what better way to play it kind of safe by using natural organic products. Although it is a big on the pricer side, BUT when it comes to your skin - you can spend an extra buck or two for good outcomes. Now, I have tried Valentia products in the past and it never disappointed. So I'm coming again with with another two products that are worth mentioning.

Tip: Little goes a long way, especially in the beginning of any start of a new product. So be careful when you start any new product, it may startle your skin at first so slowly ease the new product into your skincare regimen.

for more valentia product review: click here

Valentia Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum - Natural & Organic Ingredients - Includes Wakame (Seaweed), Lactic Acid, Licorice, Gotu Kola and Argan Oil

Not that I need any "lifting" cream at the moment but its never to late to start as a prevention method. I don't use this product often, maybe mostly at night. Using  pea size amount and applying near the areas where fine lines are definitely appearing due to a lot of emotions and my neck area.

Things I've noticed after using this product:

• Soft skin
• the serum itself isn't too heavy on the skin but still heavy for my taste as a going out serum
• it does recommend using it in the evening time (but theres no definite rules in skincare in my opinion)
• ORANGE, CREAMSICLES, CANDY - if you don't like strong smell - this is not for you
• As for results - it seems too soon to really determine, plus due to lack of actualy fine lines and such, I couldn't really tell the benefits in such a short period of time except that my face did feel hydrated. 
• Did not break me out

KEY INGREDIENTS: 

- Wakame Bioferment (Seaweed): Increases skin oxygen consumption to detoxify and boost antioxidant defense.
- Gotu Kola: Lessens the appearance of scars and increases skin firmness.
- Lactic Acid: A natural Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that increases skin cell turnover, for healthier renewed skin.
- Licorice: Lightens unwanted pigmentation and corrects skin discoloration.
- Argan Oil: Naturally rich in Vitamin E, this oil reduced water loss and protects skin's resiliency and elasticity.

Conclusion: for a 20 something year old, this might be just an extra step. Prevention I still agree on but I gravitate more towards combination products with "anti-aging" properties in it. Probably will end up giving it to my mom, but I thought I would give it a try and share my words before I send it off to it's new owner.

You can find the product here

Valentia Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask - Natural and Organic Ingredients - With Kaolin Clay, Hisbiscus & Cranberry Fibers 

If you have REALLY sensitive skin, I would not recommend this - it may be irritating. However if you don't have that problem, this is for you. The mask itself if very grainy, which makes it a great exfoliant. After you scrub and leave it on for a few minutes or however long the instructions states, it becomes a mask! Once rinsed off, my skin felt AMAZING. I personally left it on for about 10 minutes and boom. 

Things I've noticed after using this product:

• soft smooth skin - thanks to the exfoliant
• smell is strong
• no dry patches
• no huge pores
• skin has been getting nicer, clearer

KEY INGREDIENTS

- Kaolin Clay: Clay minerals draw impurities, improve skin tone, and tighten pores for smoother firmer skin. 
- Plant Stem Cells: Naturally decreases the level of pro-aging toxins and works to soother the skin, reduce redness, and improve evenness.
- Spirulina: A botanical stimulant full of vitamins that hydrates the skins surface and contributes to tissue regeneration of the skin.
- CoQ10: Lessens the appearance of wrinkles by reducing free radical damage and stimulating health collagen production.
- Hibiscus & Cranberry Fibers: Both lend their anti-aging properties to firm and reinforce the skin, helping to reduce the creation of new wrinkles.

Conclusion: I'm obsessed with masks and try to do it at least once a week - it is definitely within my rotation of products.
You can find the product here

xoxo

disclaimer: Products provided by Valentia, however, words are 100% my own

Her eyes are the gateway to her souls...

... So you better take care of them

Hello Ladies (& gents), 

Ok, so from what I heard, you should start using anti-aging cream/gel/serum & eye cream/serum/gel when you are in your 20s as a prevention measure but DEFINITELY start in your 30s. I definitely confirmed this myself when I went a SK-II event and they scanned my face. The scan told me the status of my skin. Around my eyes had a lot of potential wrinkles and they suggested me to use certain products. Of course they recommended their luxury brand which I would love to try but I wanted to start on a budget first before I branch out to the luxury products. So I discovered this eye serum.

True Glow Eye Cream by Valentia

Photo by Valentia

About the product

- Astaxanthin: A powerful antioxidant that increases moisture levels, smooths fine line and wrinkles, and restores elasticity to the skin.
- Resistem: Natural Plant Stem Cells repair and protect the skin from harsh environmental pollutants and stress related aging.
- Vitamin C: Leaves the skin smooth and visibly brighter for a well-rested and bright eyed look.
- Organic Rosehip Oil: Provides intense hydration to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Arnica: A key anti-inflammatory agent to the restorative process that works to diminish the appearance of dark circles.

 I reviewed for this company before and I really enjoyed their Vitamin C serum so I wanted give this a try. The hydration mask was a bonus because I just can't turn down a good facial mask. First off, I love the names of their products - makes it sound so magical. The consistency is this thick and creamy but glides on smoothly. Remember, little goes a long way AND use your ring fingers to apply because it'll provide the least amount of pressure. Eyes are one of the more sensitive areas of the body so a a constant tugging effect may product premature wrinkles. Leaves a thin layer of residue behind so I prefer to use this at night because I feel like thicker the creams gives maximum hydration (LEVEL 9000 - leave a comment you get this reference), and hydration it does leave (if you get this reference, hollaaaaaaaa). 

You can find it here!

OZ Naturals: Super Youth Eye Gel

Photo by Oz Naturals

About the Product
ALLURE MAGAZINE'S Best In Beauty Eye Gel 
CRUELTY FREE & vegan formula - This eye gel treatment is not to be underestimated as it's highly effective at reducing dark circles, puffiness and wrinkles.
SAFE FOR ALL SKIN Types - Non-comedogenic, does not contain parabens, sulfates or alcohol.

This makes the area around your eye super soft. I notice the morning after even the first night I used it. The consistency of the gel isn't slimy or sticky but very smooth. Application doesn't leave any greasy residue left over and it does have a cooling effect. OH! and they say you can use this all over your face as well, so its amazing for traveling - less products to bring - which brings me to my next point. The sizing threw me off but that was kind of my fault because I didn't really look at the specs and details. Now, if you are not a fan of scented products, you may be turned off by this product because it smells like freshly cut cucumbers. Doesn't bother me though, and I personally don't like cucumbers.

Get it here!

In conclusion, I feel like i'm writing a paper or something but, in conclusion:

So far I don't favor one over the other, I like both products equally. I really like it that both use natural ingredients (or at least that's what the boxes/labels say keke). I don't have much to really complain about these two either. I never used to use eye cream regularly (only periodically), so I don't have a whole lot to compare to, but even as an 'eye cream noobie' I can vouch for the fact that these products are actually making a difference.  My early early mornings would probably product some awesome dark circles and designer bags under my eyes right? NOPE, not after using these. I use less concealer because I don't need it whee!

As a BONUS, and because my love for facial masks is very strong, introducing: 

Ultra Plumping Hydration Mask

About the product
- Silk Protein Amino Acid Blend:These natural miracles increase moisture content and help in the production of collagen and elastin which decreases the appearance of visible lines. 
- Botanical Hyaluronic Acid:Penetrates deep into the skin to secure moisture and plump skin from within.
- Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil:An anti-aging wonder berry that results in fewer fine lines, diminished sun spots, more even skin tone, and firmer more supple skin.
- Japanese Green Tea:Contains catechins that provide anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-irritant effects to the skin.
- Aloe Vera:This botanical moisturizers skin and fight aging by improving skin firmness.

Super JELLY - it jiggles like jello, so yes it looks thick, however, once applied it is this gel like texture which slides on smoothly.  Once I rinse my face, it already looks brighter and smooth. With this bipolar winter weather, my skin doesn't know what to do or how to react so I will say my skin has been acting out but I love how my skin looks post mask facial. It's to the point my boyfriend wondered what I've been doing to my skin but we'll keep this our little secret ladies *wink wink*. 

You can get it here.

xoxo,

disclaimer: Products were provided by 'Valentia' and 'OZ Naturals' however, words are 100% my own. 

[REVIEW-first impression] VALENTIA: EVEN GLOW SERUM

VALENTIA: EVEN GLOW SERUM
http://www.valentiaskincare.com

Vitamin C 20%

"Antioxidant treatment to brighten, protect and even skin tone, reducing the appearance of aging"

They say you should start aging treatment once you hit 20 years old as a preventative measurement. I agree. Although the term "preventive" is quite a specific - it is impossible to prevent the normal process of life. Everything ages, BUT why not slow down the process or even just hide it. 

VALENTIA CLAIMS:

98% Natural Ingredients (see below for a description of our Key Ingredients chosen specifically to enhance Vitamin C efficacy on the skin)

EVENS SKIN TONE: Vanquish dark spots and skin discoloration with this new generation Vitamin C Serum. Quickly refresh 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 us 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.

SUPERIOR INGREDIENTS:

Vitamin C: With a 20% concentration does more than boost the body’s immune system; it also provides many benefits to keep the skin tight, smooth and looking ageless. Vitamin C has been scientifically proven to reduces the effects of sun exposure on the skin, including sunburn, sun spots, redness and wrinkles.

In addition to helping reduce the signs of aging, Vitamin C is essential for everyday maintenance to strengthen and smooth out the skin, as well as neutralizing free radicals before they can damage the skin. 

***Our additional Key Ingredients below were all selected for their ability to enhance and support Vitamin C's effect on the skin. 

ORGANIC ROSEHIP SEED OIL & ORGANIC SEA BUCKTHORN OIL - These oils promote skin hydration and lock in moisture to protect your skin from signs of aging and improve its beauty and youthfulness. Rosehip Oil specifically has been used in medical communities around the world for those with serious skin ailments and only recently has North America learned to embrace natural solutions from our ancestors. These two organic oils are full of antioxidants and therefore act as the perfect supporting cast for our best friend - Vitamin C

RESISTEM (Plant Stem Cells) - This provides the perfect mix of protection from stress-related aging and promotes skin detoxification. Resistem will help your skin regenerate faster while protecting it from environmental stressors.

HYALURONIC ACID(Botanical) - Holding up to 1000 times its weight in water and drawing moisture out of the environment and onto the surface of your skin ,there is not a more effective moisturizing agent on the market today. Penetrates deeply, and actives collagen production for a fresher, younger, firmer, and brighter complexion

GREEN TEA EXTRACT- The catechins in green tea are a potent antioxidant which also contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant benefits of this ancient health and beauty secret.

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Now,  My words:

I believe when it comes to skin care - you REALLY need to test it out for a long period of time because sometimes the skin needs time to get used to the product or sometimes you just need a long period of time to see results SO, I am considering this review kind of as a "first impression" review because I've only used it for maybe a week (by the time I publish this post).

First thing that I noticed was the smell of the serum. I'm not a huge fan of the citrus smell in anything so I was a bit turned off by that.

I've been trying this out since last Wednesday (8/6/2014) and I've noticed my skin being smoother after application and very moisturizing! I used this after I wash my face with Shesideo Pure cleanser and then applying my Sheseido pure toner and I add on my moisturizer once the seurm sets and dries. I really did notice how quickly the serum gets absorbed in your skin. 

Texture is really smooth and applies on your face very well and absorbs quickly.. I use about 2 pea sizes for the morning and then 3 pea sizes at night and it sufficient enough to cover your entire face. 

One set back for me personally (in general) I have SUPER sensitive and oily skin so just any product is difficult to use without breaking out.  I did break out a bit after starting to use the serum and I also feel as though my skin is a bit oily after an hour or two of application. I'm still trying out different combination to see if it is really this serum that is making my skin oily or a combination of this and certain foundations. I'll give an update once I finish with my experiment. But for now this his how my skin is taking it.

I wanted to try this out because it was 98% natural ingredients and you know alcohol free and paraben free is better for your skin.

So far I think I would recommend this to those with dry skin or maybe even combination, but not to those with really oily skin unless you are using this product at night.

Comparing it to one of my favorite serums, Ole Henriksen truth serum vitamin C Collagen Booster I would have to say the Ole Henriksen absorbs quicker and dries faster than this serum and I feel less oily. It is on the pricier side, so if you are looking for similar serum, VALENTIA: EVEN GLOW SERUM is definitely a good cheaper option.

I am going to continue using it for some time so maybe my skin can get used to it.


You can get their product on Amazon for $35.00 (Amazon Prime) 
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HJD8NLY

*Sponsored by Valentia but the words are 100% my own*
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