Category Archives: Beauty

3 Easy Ways To Repair Summer Sun Damaged Skin

After a summer of fun in the sun, your skin probably needs some TLC. If you are looking for ways to pamper your complexion and undo damage from spending too much time in the sun, you are not alone. Many are looking for ways to rejuvenate, deep clean and rehydrate their skin. The products below can help give you back the healthy, glowing skin you love.

Peels

Peels are one of the easiest ways to rid your skin of dead cells and sun damage. When shopping for a peel, look for ones that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic and lactic acids, and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. Together these acids will help unclog your pores, reduce breakouts, exfoliate and brighten your skin.

The Microdelivery Triple-Acid Brightening Peel from philosophy is a good choice. This set contains 12 pre-saturated chemical peel pads to deliver advanced skin-brightening and anti-aging benefits. This peel conveniently delivers superior results in one easy step you can do at home.

Research showed that after just 2 uses, individuals saw a 96% improvement in skin smoothness with no irritation. After just 4 uses, there was a 96% improvement in brightening as well as an 81% decrease in fine lines and 90% enhanced clarity.

Masks

Masks are effective at helping to remove dark spots and clogged pores which go hand in hand with sun and sweat. You can use a brightening mask with vitamin C to kick your dull complexion to the curb while it fades facial discoloration.

GlamGlow, FlashMud Brightening Treatment is available at Sephora or Amazon, and is good for normal, oily, dry or combination skin. This multi-targeted, multi-sensorial brightening treatment for radiant, youthful-looking skin brings fast results. Use to lighten dark spots and correct uneven skin tone, uneven skin texture and banish dullness.

The Body Shop’s Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask is 100% Vegan beautifying mud-textured exfoliating mask that deeply cleanses and purifies the skin by cleaning out clogged pores and releasing impurities and toxins to reveal a healthy-looking youthful glow.

Boosters

Like their name implies, Boosters give your skin care routine an extra push. As the seasons change, most skin types can benefit from increased hydration and plumping. A booster that contains hyaluronic acid attracts moisture from the air and pulls it into the skin.

Paula’s Choice-BOOST C15 Super Booster with 15% Vitamins C & E and Ferulic Acid can give you visibly brighter skin thanks to the replenishing antioxidants and skin smooth peptides. This product works to provide exceptional results; improving the appearance of uneven skin tone, lessening environmental stress and brightening dull complexions.

Taking some time to pamper your skin is well worth it. Your skin says so much about you and if you are like me, you want it to look the best it can be. What are some of your go-to products or routines to repair summer sun damage?

 


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4 Benefits of Egg Whites for Your Skin and Hair

Unless you have a sensitivity to dietary cholesterol and fat, there really is no reason for you not to eat and enjoy whole eggs. However, if you do have high cholesterol or want to avoid fat, you could opt to eat egg whites instead.  Egg whites may not look like much, but they actually contain high amounts of protein and a decent amount of minerals like phosphorus and selenium.

Apart from their nutritional benefits, egg whites can also help you maintain the health and beauty of your skin and hair. Here are just a few ways that egg whites can make you look and feel more beautiful, naturally.

Egg Whites Minimize Your Pores

The high amount of protein in egg whites works in two ways to make your pores look smaller. First, they open up the pores making it clean away dirt, residual makeup, and other impurities, which are one of the main reasons your pores look larger. Second, and more importantly, the proteins in egg whites can help tighten the skin, resulting in a smoother, firmer texture.

You can whip pure egg whites until you get a thick, frothy consistency and use it as a mask at least twice a week. There are also ready-to-use products available in the market, like Skinfood’s egg white pore mask. Whichever way you choose, make sure to rinse off the egg white mask with lukewarm water to get the best results.

 

Egg Whites Help Control Sebum Production

One of the reasons why egg whites can help reduce the appearance of your pores is because of its albumin content. Albumin, the primary protein in egg whites, helps get rid of excess sebum by controlling its production, thus making the skin appear clearer and the pores look smaller. Removing excess sebum from your skin also makes it less prone to pimple breakouts and blackheads.

If you are using a DIY face mask made out of egg whites and oatmeal, you can try adding some honey to add an exfoliation effect. You can do this once a week for fresher-looking skin on your face and neck.

Egg Whites Reduce the Puffiness Under Your Eyes

With its naturally cool temperature (just like cucumbers), egg whites can help soothe and reduce the puffiness under the eyes. Apply a thin layer of egg whites under your eyes, after about 10 minutes, wipe it off gently with a damp cloth and then rinse with lukewarm water. Make sure to apply a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. If you’re doing this procedure at night, you can instead use your preferred night cream.

The protein content of egg whites can help lift and tighten the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Simply spread a thin layer of egg whites on wrinkle-prone areas, like around your mouth, the corners of your eyes where crow’s feet develop, and, of course, the thin and sensitive skin under the eyes.

Egg Whites Eliminate Excess Oil in Your Scalp

In the same way that egg whites removes excess oil from your skin, they can also help get rid of the greasiness in your scalp that makes your hair look limp and lifeless. You can apply whisked egg whites to you scalp and hair and let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes, and then simply rinse it off and follow-up with your regular shampoo and conditioner routine.

Apart from making your hair look more voluminous and bouncy, there are several other benefits of removing the excess oil in your scalp. These include shinier hair (the excess oil makes hair look dull) and a reduced risk of developing dandruff. If you already have dandruff, regularly treating your scalp and hair with egg whites can help eliminate dryness and flakiness in as soon as one to two weeks.

Whether or not you like eating egg whites (or avoid them because you have allergies), there are undeniable beauty benefits from this simple food. Try some of these egg white beauty secrets for yourself,  you might just be surprised at how effective they can be.

This is a sponsored guest post, it does not necessarily reflect the views or ideals of Mommy Ramblings.


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You Can Have The Hair You Always Wanted! #Beauty

This is a sponsored post, as always my words and views are 100% my own.

Did you know that Remy human hair is the highest quality of real, human hair on the market. That is what makes it the preferred hair choice for hair extensions, wigs and hairpieces. If you are looking of for Remy wigs, weaves and extensions, you should check out Black Hairspray. They have a passion for all things hair and are authorized dealers for the top brands you love like, Milky Way, Vivica Fox Collection, Saga Remy, Janet Collection, Hollywood, It’s A Wig and more.

Are you looking for something to give you a totally new look? Do you want something for a special event? Maybe you just love to change your hair on a whim. Whatever your needs, you are sure to find what you are looking for at Black Hairspray.

Ordering is easy on their website and they have a convenient, no hassle 30 day return policy, so you can buy with confidence. They have a huge selection with all products priced competitively. Need help? No problem, Black Hairspray customer service is there for you with the best customer service in the industry! If you need something fast, they offer same day shipping on nearly every product they carry. Order before 4PM EST and your order can ship that day from their distribution center in Chicago, IL.

 

So what are you waiting for, it’s time to get the hair you always wanted. Let me know what you think.

 

 


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Dry Brushing Health Benefits

The skin is the largest organ in our body, so it makes sense that ramping up your skin care regime can make significant improvements in your health. When you think about skin care, you probably think about facial cleansers, skin creams and lotions. Have you ever heard of dry brushing? If you haven’t, let me tell you more about it.

What is Dry Brushing?

Dry brushing is when you brush your skin in a certain way with a dry brush that looks very much like a long-handled bath brush. People usually dry brush their skin prior to taking a shower.

There are certain brushing patterns to be aware of when dry brushing. Most people begin with their feet and brush toward their chest or heart. Then they do the same starting at their hands and brushing again toward their chest.

I have a dry brush and it feels amazing! It does not just feel great, there are some fabulous health benefits to doing this.

Heath Benefits of Dry Brushing

  • Exfoliate Obviously this is probably the first benefit you will notice when you begin dry brushing. The brush helps to loosen and remove dead skin cells. If you remain diligent, you should notice your skin feeling much softer.
  • Pore Cleansing As the dead skin cells are removed, so are oil, dirt and other residue from your skin’s pores.
  • Lymphatic Support: Your lymphatic system is a crucial part of your immune system. Dry brushing can improve the function of the lymph nodes, vessels and ducts that transport lymph through your body. The brushing has the ability to stimulate this system to increase the flow and help the body rid itself of toxins.
  • Improving Circulation and Blood Flow: As you would imagine, dry brushing will help your blood flow better which improves circulation and can even help you feel energized.

What Kind of Brush Should You Buy?

There are many dry brushes available to choose from. You should select one that has a firm brush made of natural bristles. They usually have a long handle similar to a bath brush so that you have the ability to brush your back as well as the back side of your legs and feet. I got my brush on Amazon but you can find them at many other stores.

Dry Brushing Technique

As I stated above, it is best to dry brush your skin before you shower.

You can research different techniques online but the basic method is to start at your feet and use long, continuous strokes brushing upward to the tops of your legs. You can repeat this action for 5 or 10 times and then do the other leg.

After you have finished your feet and legs, start with your hands and brush the back of your hands and arms and then the palm of your hands and inner arm up toward your chest area. Again you can do this 5 to 10 times on each side.

Next, you can do your back and trunk area. If the brush is too hard for your mid section, you can get a softer brush for that area and the softer brush can be used on your face as well.

Remember when starting to take it easy, perhaps start with 5 times working up to 10 times over a week or so. Do not use so much pressure that the process is painful or makes your skin red or raw. Naturally your skin will be somewhat pink tinged but never red.

So what about you? Have you tried dry brushing? Are you anxious to try?


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Here’s How To Get Those Corkscrew Curls #Giveaway

It never fails, if you have curly hair, you usually want straight hair and if you have straight hair, you want it to be curly. I guess that is why hair styling tools are a big business. We are all familiar with hair straighteners and curling irons but have you heard of the Chopstick wand?

The Lee Stafford CHoPstick Styler is a ceramic Curling Wand. It comes with a heat-resistant glove and I would suggest watching some YouTube videos to see how to use it for best results. I can share some very important things you should not do.

Of course, I learned the hard way that no matter what, do not attempt to brush your hair after curling it.  The results will cause you to immediately jump in the shower and wash your hair. Seriously, don’t do it! You will also want to wear the glove on the hand that is wrapping the hair because the want is very hot. Don’t try to do without it.

My first time was a disaster!  I watched some videos and tried again and it was better but it still made my hair look sort of frizzy and strange. I think I will give it another go and try using a product before curling it.

It does heat up to a high temperature very fast and it definitely does curl hair. You can find this CHoPstick STYLER on Amazon. If you would like a chance to win one, just enter the giveaway below. Good Luck!!!

 

I did receive this product in order to facilitate my post as a blogger working with the Review Directory. As always my words and views are 100% my own.

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Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae Recipe

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #WhatMattersToU #CollectiveBias

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I love being a woman, I cherish so many incredible experiences like; feeling my children grow inside me, giving birth, nurturing my child from my own body and so much more. We can experience all that and be amazing, successful women on a professional level too!

I embrace all aspects of being a woman except that time of the month. I know it is essential to our fertility and serves a purpose but that does not mean it is pleasant.  I tend to spoil myself a little during that time, let myself indulge on those chocolate cravings my body is demanding.

Chocolate cravings are something many women have right before or when they have their period and it is probably because chocolate makes us feel better as it releases serotonin to our brains. It has been said that eating chocolate can produce the same type of euphoric feelings that falling in love does. So does that mean we have a love affair with chocolate? I know I do and since I believe in moderation in diet, I don’t beat myself up for eating it. I eat healthy, so if I have a special chocolate dessert or candy bar during my period, I don’t feel guilty.

The changing hormone levels associated before and during our period can trigger all kinds of cravings. Some women crave carbohydrates, meats, high fat food and more. Anyway, back to chocolate, I want to share a recipe that will not only satisfy your chocolate cravings but will make your whole family happy.

Chocolate chip cookies are one of my favorites but you know I love a good ice cream sundae. I love a sundae with vanilla bean ice cream, hot fudge, caramel, fresh whipped cream, chopped nuts and a cherry. This dessert combines my two favorites, so I can have my cookie and ice cream sundae!  Below you can follow the video tutorial and print the recipe to make this yourself. It is guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s chocolate cravings!

 

 

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Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundaes

Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundaes

Ingredients

  • 2 Sticks of Butter, Softened
  • 1 Cup Packed Brown Sugar
  • 1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 2 Eggs
  • 2 Cups of All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 Heaping Teaspoons of Instant Coffee
  • 1 1/2 Teaspoons of Baking Soda
  • 1 Teaspoon of Salt
  • 2 Cups of Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
  • Whipped Cream:
  • 2 cups of heavy whipping cream
  • 6 tbsp. of sugar
  • 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 175°C | 350°F.
  2. Cream together the butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar with an electric mixer.
  3. Add the vanilla and eggs, mixing well.
  4. Combine the flour, instant coffee, baking soda and salt in a separate bowl.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients a little at a time mixing well after each add.
  6. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
  7. Spread the mixture into a 12" cast iron skillet and bake until colden brown, 30 to 40 minutes.
  8. Remove skillet from oven.
  9. Let cool 10 minutes and cut into 16 slices.
  10. While cooling pour the heavy whipping cream into a bowl, add sugar and vanilla and beat with electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  11. Cut it into sixteen slices and top slices with vanilla bean ice cream, hot fudge, caramel sauce, chopped nuts, fresh whipped cream and a cherry.
  12. ENJOY!
https://www.mommyramblings.org/2016/08/08/whatmatterstou/

When I was shopping at Walmart for the ingredients I picked up a couple U by Kotex® NEW Style ‘N Store Packs in the feminine care aisle. Have you seen these? I was impressed, they are really fun and different. The pads or liners store in these little drawers and they don’t stand out the way typical packages do because they come in 4 unique designs. If your husband or significant other feels awkward picking up these types of products, the packaging on these should not cause him to be embarrassed.

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I selected the U by Kotex® Cleanwear® Ultra Thin Pads that feature a 3D Capture Core* with Xpress DRI* cover for crazy fast absorption to help stop leaks because leaks are not pretty. These pads stay secure thanks to the unique shape of the Tru-Fit® wings. The super soft sides are comfortable not irritating as can be the case with other pads.

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I also picked up a box of U by Kotex® Barely There® Liners. These liners are made to feel just like your underwear and they really do! They work great everyday or when my period is light. I love that they come in  Style ‘N Store packs because the bold designs and colors look great in my linen closet. I know it is a small thing but Kotex’s NEW Style ‘N Store Packs make me smile along with the savings I find at Walmart.

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What matters most to you when you have  your period? Get up to $25 in rewards just for you by purchasing U by Kotex® at Walmart! Now through 9/30/16 purchase 2 packs of U by Kotex® products at Walmart (Any Variation) and text UbyKotex to 811811 and upload a photo of your receipt. Go to UbyKotexrewards.com register to choose your customized reward. How cool is this, I did this as soon as I got home and was amazed at the available rewards. I hope you check out this SNIPP offer yourself.

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I hope you try the recipe, let me know in the comments if you do. Also, share #WhatMattersToU during that time of the month.


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3 Of My Must Have Products To Use With Essential Oils

3 Must Have Essential Oil ProductsI am really getting into essential oils and am learning a great deal about them I want to show you some great things I have found to make using my essential oils easier and more effective.  I wanted to mix some of my oils with carrier oils, create blends or just put neat oils in roller bottles and I found a great deal on roller bottles on Amazon.  I got 24 clear glass 1/3 oz  roll on bottles for only $8.88 (keep in mind prices/products change rapidly on Amazon) and it was eligible for my Prime free shipping.  Amazingly also included were 3 large transfer pipettes which are really nice for my carrier oil bottles.

roller bottles glass

If you want colored glass rollers they are available too in a variety of shades like cobalt, green, amber,pink, black even multi color packs.  See the selection HERE.

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multicolor roller bottlesblack roll on bottlescobalt roller bottles

Another super deal I got was 12 Amber 15 ml bottles with dropper tops that are awesome for storage, mixing and sharing your oils.  The handy dropper top is perfect for dispensing and mixing.  Best of all $6.99 with free Prime shipping!

amber bottles with dropper

amber bottles with droppers box

 

Diffusing oils is a great way to benefit from the health and healing these oils are known for.  The Riverrock Diffuser from Deneve is whisper quiet and so easy to use.

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riverrock diffuser 1

Deneve Essential Oil Diffuser

Riverrock Essential Oil Diffuser 1

Eseential Oil RiverRock Diffuser Humidifier

You just fill the chamber with water you can easily measure and pour using the included plastic beaker. You use room temperature water, that is very important.  Then add 3-5 drops of you favorite oil or oils and replace the cover.

Riverrock oil diffuser Deneve water in

 

Turn the unit on and immediately the unit’s LED light band starts changing colors and dispensing the aromatic The diffuser is whisper quiet and has the faint sound of a distant, babbling brook to relax you.  Without oil the unit functions as a humidifier. This diffuser covers about 250 square feet for best results.

Riverrock diffuser in action

 

Riverrock diffuser for essential oils #review #relax #essentialoils #mommyramblings #peace #blog

A video posted by Mommy Ramblings (@mommyramblingsblog) on

The diffuser purifies, sterilizes, moisturizes and ionizes by producing the finest, lightest droplets of water and essential oils without degrading the true essence of the oils, allowing micro droplets to disperse more widely.  Using your essential oils in a diffuser like his can help with relieving tension, relaxation, coughs, colds and skin conditions. The changing LED light band is a mood enhancer and accent light but if you want totally darkness, you can turn it off. The river rock sleek shape of the diffuser compliments nearly any decor in the home, office or spa.

Free Essential Oil Books

There are so many free ebooks on using Essential Oils HERE!

Share Your Experience, Recipes, Uses and More!

Please let me know if you have tried these products or are going to.  I would love to hear your thoughts, just leave them in the comments.

 


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Protect Your Eyes From Damaging UV Rays And Save Money!

Do you ever wish there was a way to get quality prescription glasses and sunglasses at more affordable prices?  I know I have. How about the most popular, trendy eyeglasses frames from all over the world available at big savings?  Sound good, right? GlassesShop.com has all that and more!  Shop online and have your new glasses quick, just a few days after they’re shipped.

Right now Sunglasses are on sale for 25% off with free shipping when you use the Promo Code SUNSALE at checkout.  They start as low as $12.95 a pair! I recently went online and ordered a pair of Sarcelles Cat-Eye – Tortoise sunglasses from Glasses Shop.  The website is easy to navigate and I was able to choose from a wide selection of styles and color choices. My sunglasses were delivered quickly in a nice case with a cleaning cloth.  They are fashionable, functional and most importantly affordable!

GlassesShop

Glasses

Glasses Shop

They have fashion sunglasses, polarized sunglasses and prescription sunglasses for men and women.  It’s never been so easy and affordable to protect your eyes from damaging UV rays.  Stop squinting, it causes wrinkles, take a look at the site and browse all the great options. Let me know what you think.

 

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Sunglasses  glasses shop mens

 

Special Savings for Mommy Ramblings’ Readers:

Use The Promo Code  CarolynX20  to save 20% off when you buy glasses at GlassesShop.com. In the words of Brad Paisley-“She Looks Great In Cheap Sunglasses!”

 


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What is Your #BeautyStory?

When people talk about beauty traditions or secrets, I don’t think I have any really big ones. I was always shown to just enhance the features you have but in a natural way, not one that makes you look like a cast member of a Broadway musical. I think eating well, not smoking or drinking alcohol in excess helps to keep my skin healthy and looking vibrant. I was never one that had the patience to bake in the sun, I was always off being active and I used sunscreen when sunscreen wasn’t cool. Using healthy products on my skin and drinking lots of water are some other ways I care for my skin and incorporate in my beauty regime.  So nothing special but common sense passed down to me from my mom who had great skin and no wrinkles when she passed at almost 82.

Speaking of beauty, the video below is about four generations of beautiful women.  I encourage you to take a few minutes to watch it.

Share Your #BeautyStory with CVS

Real beauty is found in real women, Dove knows that. This spring they’re celebrating that notion by celebrating some of the inspiring stories of beauty they have received. If you want to tell yours, here is your chance. You can share your #BeautyStory and let others know who in your life introduced you to Dove. This is a great way to say thanks to the inspiring women in your life this Mother’s Day season. 

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Keep up with your own beauty traditions with help from Dove and CVS.

If you visit CVS between 4/26/15-5/23/15, you’ll receive 50% off any one Dove product when you buy one of equal or lesser value. Be sure to take advantage of this great offer, and share your #BeautyStory today!

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I was compensated for this post as a blogger working with Global Influence, as always my views and words are 100% my own.


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Pamper Your Hair With Caviar And Save Money! #NewNexxusCaviar

Did you know that spring is a great time to overhaul your current beauty routine and refocus how you care for your skin and hair.  Our hair can go through a lot in the winter and I plan to usher my  hair into spring with a bit of pampering.  A new cut maybe and some special care are on my hair care agenda.

How are you planning on pampering your hair?  How about treating your hair to caviar?  Think I’m kidding?  I’m not, Nexxus Therappe Shampoo & Humectress Conditioner as well as the new Encapsulate Serum are enriched with 100% Elastin protein and Caviar Complex that will rebalance, restore and replenish your hair and make it soft, manageable and nourished.

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Did you know that Nexxus New York Salon Care products have been reformulated and they are available now at your local CVS?  They are, and if you head on in to your local CVS you can meet with a CVS Beauty Advisor and receive a coupon good for $1 off Nexxus New York Salon Care Systems products.  To find out if your store is participating you can check HERE!  The CVS Beauty Advisors can help you with beauty and style tips as well as helping you find the right Nexxus New York Salon Care products. Hurry though this offer is good only through April 26th!

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This post was sponsored by Global Influence.  All of my word and views are as always 100% my own.


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