Apr 292016
 

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There is nothing worse than getting a stain on your shirt while your eating at a restaurant or at your desk while at work.  That is why I like to carry a Dreft Portable Pretreater Pen with me.  It is great at getting stains out of my shirt – it is like a mini-washer in your purse!

It is so easy to use ~ you remove excess residue from the stain, then place a napkin behind the stain while squeezing pen. Use the scrubber like an eraser to eliminate stain. It works great and smells good too.  Rex and I are traveling to Las Vegas next week and the pen is going with us.  I don’t want to have to worry about embarrassing stains on my clothes while we are having fun!

While normally you would think of Dreft products for babies – I use it for clothes too.   I really like the Dreft Laundry Stain Remover ~ it works well at removing all kinds of stains. It is specially formulated for tough stains and it is very easy to use – just spray the spot and let soak into the fabric for 3-5 minutes and then wash with detergent.

You can find out more about the products Dreft carries HERE.  You can also find Dreft products nationwide.

Kaisy1

 

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

 

Apr 292016
 

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I have always read about skin care products out of Asia and how good they worked and how good they were for your skin.  I recently was able to try a set of products from Japan called Silkriller.  They have a new luxury skin care product line.  It is spun from 100% locally produced and manufactured Japanese silk, our one-of-a-kind, silk-based skin care line will revolutionize how consumers approach skin care. IMG_0525 It uses Silk fibroin is an organic protein that naturally exists in silk fibers. The protein contains 18 amino acids that are essential to effectively nourish skin cells. Unique combination of silk fibroin and additional beauty essences, Silkriller helps to remove wrinkles and reduce color spots, while facilitating skin cell regeneration. Each drop of Silkriller is made with a high concentration of silk fibroin that not only nourishes the skin long after use, but also restores oil/water balance, helps to achieve healthy skin and maintain a youthful glow. Silkriller can even help fight acne, assist in healing scars and reduce unwanted redness.

I used 4 different products together to help make my skin look younger.  I have been using Silkriller for about 14 days – and have already seen some results.  I am hoping to see significant improvement after 29 days.

The facial foam is something that I use in the morning and at night in the shower.  It helps clean my skin along with removing impurities and dead skin.  It also helps firm and brighten my skin.  I like the way it feels when I use it and it washes away clean.

After using the facial foam I use the lotion – which my skin just soaks up.  It rejuvenates and nourishes the skin cells from the inside out.  It is great for helping make your skin look more evenly colored and to help skin cells grow and heal.

The next product is the  3D Silver Pure Rich Gel.  This gel is thick but my skin still absorbs it pretty quickly and it is a anti-aging serum which I can certainly use. I like how it feels when I rub it into my skin.  It is not sticky and does not leave a shine or greasy look on your skin.  It helps repair your skin and remove fine lines.

The finial product I used is a Moisturizing Cream which is a unique formula that is absorbed quickly into the skin. It helps help release skin fatigue and lock nutrients inside skin layer to provide constant nourishment. The cream also contains highly concentrated essences to improve skin elasticity and to refine skin radiance, keeping the skin healthy and youthful.

I really love this whole set and like how my skin is looking younger and rejuvenated with its use.  If you would like to try these great products from Silkriller you can find the set I have HERE.  There is enough product to last 3 months under normal use.

Kaisy1

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

 

Apr 262016
 

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I know I haven’t posted in a couple weeks – but I wanted to update you on my progress. I am now down about 37 pounds!  Yeah!  I won’t tell you that it is easy to keep going but I love how I am feeling.  I have more energy and I am feeling better.  I have a big goal but I am taking it one day at time.  IMG_0547

One thing that really helps me is the great tasting, real food from Personal Trainer Food.  It is very easy to make – just pop in the microwave and heat.  I also have been adding some of my own touches to the meals.  This dinner here I added cheese to both the cauliflower and chicken.  I also added a few bacon bits to the chicken.  It was yummy! One night I sauteed some mushrooms and onions and then added a bit of Parmesan cheese to them, then used them to top a garlic chicken breast.  It was great.

This week I am going to be making a couple side dishes using the vegetables I have. One of them is using the cauliflower and cheese – I will take a picture and provide the recipe next week if it turns out.

Next week – Rex and I are heading out to Vegas for a few days.  I am really looking forward to the trip.  I know we will be doing lots of walking and probably eating. I am going to try to stay on my plan and stay way from the sugar and carbs.

Have a great week!  If you would like to try Personal Trainer Food they now have a two week subscription ~ great for people who don’t have room to store a whole month of food!  You can find all of the information HERE.   Have a great week!

Kaisy1

 

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

Apr 252016
 

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I am always on the go and have my days packed with things to do ~ that is why I like to treat myself to something special ever once in awhile.  That is why I really like this  Coconut Milk Scrub #FBcocoscrub.  It makes me feel like a spa treatment at home!

The Coconut Milk Scrub smells so good.  It helps gently exfoliate my skin – leaving it soft and smooth.  It helps get rid of dead skin leaving only soft, nice smelling and moisturized skin.  It is easy to use.  After you shower or bath gently massage into your your damp skin – then rinse with warm water.  Your skin will glow and look healthy.

I like that the Coco Glow Coconut Milk Body Scrub uses natural ingredients. It includes to help moisturizes skin with safflower seed and grape seed oils. It also has vitamins A, B and E . All ingredients to help your skin look and feel great!  I really like to treat myself by using it.  If you would like purchase your own  Coco Glow Coconut Milk Body Scrub you can do so on the link below.

Kaisy1
“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Apr 252016
 

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I have been looking for a few lanterns for my emergency and camping kit.  Flashlights don’t really do what I want them to – so I was excited to find this BYB Super Bright Portable COB LED Camping Lantern.  It is great for camping.  You can hang it or set it on a table, the handles fold down.  We like to hang it from a tree.

The lantern itself folds down – you just push it down and the light goes out.  Need light just pull it out.  The lantern itself is pretty bright. You need 3 AA batteries and that gives you about 12 hours of light – perfect for a weekend camping trip.  As the power gets lower the light starts to dim.

The lantern is waterproof and  hardworking. It’s lightweight so if you need to carry it in a backpack it will not weight you down.  I can see using this BYB Super Bright Portable COB LED Camping Lantern often either camping, when the power goes out or for emergency.  This would be a great gift for Father’s Day!

You can purchase your own BYB Super Bright Portable COB LED Camping Lantern on the link below from Amazon.com.

Kaisy1

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Apr 212016
 


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I am always looking for a new pair of ear-buds.  I have some at work, in the car, at home and Rex is the same.  I was happy to try this new pair that are  Vomach In-Ear Headphone  #vomaxtech. They have a nice ergo design and come with different sizes of ear tips so you get the size that fits best for you.  I find that they have a really good fit and are comfortable.  The ear buds don’t fall out like some I have used.

The nice thing is that there is a built-in mic that allows hand-free talking on your phone.  Which was easy to pair with the Vomach Headphones.  The sound is good.  It is clear both when talking and listening to music. I only hear the music and not the noise going on around me. They are good for when you work out as they don’t slip out of ear.

The headphones look pretty durable and should last me along time.  If you want to purchase your own pair of  Vomach In-Ear Headphone  you can do so on the link below from Amazon.com

Kaisy1

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Apr 212016
 

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Rex likes to listen to music and he likes his music loud.  He really likes these new wireless Sound Intone P6 Wireless Headphones #HEADPHONES.  It’s great there are no wires that get in the way – and he can be anywhere in the room to use them.  They are very comfortable and have nice padded ear pads.  The nicest thing about these headphones is that they paired really easy with his iPad.

He said the sound is good too.  The incredible speakers support with TF card mode and use 3D HD stereo sound technology powered by professional brass amplifier chip to ensure powerful yet pleasant bass. In addition, use of 40MM NdFeB strong magnet speakers enhance the bass horn shock effect and widen the sound field – thus it lets you play HIFI sound levels.

The headphones fit really well.  They have an ergonomic design with a stretchable headband which fits any size head comfortably. We get about 5-6 hours of music play before they need to be recharged with the micro USB port.  They charge in under 2 hours!  If you would like to purchase your own set of Sound Intone P6 Wireless Headphones you can do so on the link below from Amazon.com.

 


Kaisy1

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Apr 182016
 

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Eternal Youth Exfoliating Scrub  #naturalbeauty and I really like this product.  This contains green and white tea along with 3 tropical butters.  I loved how you feel a slight tingle as you use it.  The scrub itself is thick, you can tell how good it is for your skin. It too will help your skin look younger and feel great!

A gentle scrub releases toxins and free radicals that work to leave skin looking dull, grey, and lifeless. Cleanse and rejuvenate skin regularly to keep it looking vibrant, fresh and youthful.

It is easy to use and I use it a few times a week in the shower. You just take a small amount and with circular motion on face for gentle exfoliation. Then rinse off and your skin will look fresh and vibrant. I use it a couple times a week and love how my face feels and looks after I use it.

If you would like to purchase this Eternal Youth Exfoliating Scrub by Valentia Natural Skin Care you can find it on the link below from Amazon.com.

Kaisy1
“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Apr 182016
 

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When ever I look in the mirror I notice a new line or wrinkle.  I like to find products that help me feel pampered and that is why I was happy to try Swissvita Eye Lift Cream #Swissvita.  It is very simple to use – I just put a small amount onto the skin around my eye by gently massaging it.  I do this twice a day.

The nice thing is that the Swissvita Eye Lift Cream soaks easily into my skin.  I like that it does not feel greasy or irritate my eyes. The cream helps improve skin firmness and elasticity. It contains multiple active ingredients that nourish and heal discolored skin, fine lines and wrinkles. This natural skin tightener enhances your skin’s biochemical properties, giving you an eye-lifting, youthful effect that makes your skin look younger and healthier.

I have only been using the Swissvita Eye Lift Cream for a few days and I already notice a difference. The bags under my eyes are disappearing and the skin feels tighter and not as loose. I also notice that my skin looks brighter and the dark circles are disappearing.  I will add a picture after I use the product for a bit longer so you can see the difference.

If you would like to purchase the Swissvita Eye Lift Cream you can do so on the link below – give yourself a spa treatment at home!

 

Kaisy1
“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Apr 142016
 

spring clean your skin

Spring-cleaning isn’t only for your home or for the spring time. It’s also for your skin! Don’t neglect the largest organ in your body. Get it ready for the warmer, skin-baring months. Here are 10 ways to spring clean your skin from head to toe from Dr. Kally Papantoniou, Cosmetic Dermatologist, Board Certified by the American Board of Dermatology.
1. Scalp: To have healthier, shinier hair it begins with a clean scalp. Deep clean yours to remove any build up, which can lead to dull, limp, locks. Tea tree, grapeseed, coconut, bamboo extract, neem and moringa oils work wonders to deep clean and restore pH levels. Choose one of these oils, add a few drops to water and massage into your scalp. Dr. Papantoniou suggests seeing your dermatologist if scalp itching, dandruff and breakouts occur frequently. To remove heavy product build-up on the scalp and hair try diluting 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 1 cup water for a scalp solution, allow this to soak on scalp and hair for 5-10 minutes and wash out. Apple cider vinegar gently exfoliates and restores PH.
2. Ears: While people usually focus on how best to safely clean inner ear, we also must pay attention to the outer ear. Oftentimes when we neglect this area skin becomes flaky and dull. Take warm water combined with a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide. Dip a cotton swab into the mixture and gently rub along the crevasses of your outer ear and piercing holes, don’t forget to clean the back of the ears which can often be missed. Then pass a warm cloth with drops of your favorite oil (almond, coconut, or argan oil) to exfoliate and moisturize the softer thinner outer ear skin.
3. Face: Schedule a deep cleansing, exfoliating facial with a professional. According to Dr. Papantoniou, people make the mistake of scrubbing too hard stripping the stratum corneum (the skin’s protective outer layer.) People falsely think burning and tightness means their cleanser is working when in actuality; it’s harming skin. She explains, “you want to deep clean but you don’t want to over dry and cause inflammation leading to more problems. See your dermatologist to get a skin assessment and then begin a regimen that provides a more customized clean.”
4. Neck: Don’t forget about your neck. Typically all it gets is a fast swipe of a washcloth during a shower. That’s not enough. It’s common to see breakouts and darker ashy skin on an overlooked under-cleaned neck area. You can deep clean your neck area at home by using a combination of olive oil and sugar. Some people also use lemon juice but Dr. Papantoniou reminds people to avoid sun exposure after any exfoliation with lemon juice. Glycolic 5-10% pads or cleansing solution can also work wonders to exfoliate dull skin safely on the neck.
5. Chest: Most people are typically concerned with sun-spots and wrinkles. Exfoliation does help address these concerns, and wearing SPF can help prevent them in the first place. However breakouts could be embarrassing and even painful. “The chest area is often covered up. We spray fragrance on our chests and perspire under our clothing. Women with deeper cleavage can experience rashes and breakouts,” explains Dr. Papantoniou. For people who are prone to breakouts she suggests using baking soda. “You want to steer clear of body washes with harsh chemicals that can add to the problem. Baking soda with warm water in a circular motion will help to gently exfoliate as a home remedy. Regular use of glycolic/salicylic acid pads 5-10% can also help prevent and treat flare-ups on the chest. Also, paying attention to diet may help. Be sure to eat foods rich in Omega 3’s that helps maintain skin elasticity, decrease dairy intake and avoid foods that have high glycemic index.
6. Shoulders & Back: This is another area where breakouts can occur. Dr. Papantoniou suggests also using baking soda on the back. It’s also a hard to reach area for deeper cleaning. Back loofas reach the area, but are known to be a breeding ground for bacteria when left in the shower. The loofa should be cleaned by soaking it in a bleach solution and letting it air dry in a cool place. It should be replaced every 3 weeks.
7. Belly Button! An often forgotten spot is the belly button. It’s not an easy place to keep clean, even when showering. Clean it the way you do your outer ears. Hydrogen peroxide combined with water does wonders. Then apply your favorite oil to this delicate area to protect the skin, virgin coconut oil provides natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. These two steps will deep clean the area killing and bacteria that may lurk in this hidden spot.
8. Buttocks: Keep your butt baby soft by exfoliating. Breakouts are common in this area and spas have responded with skin exfoliating treatments designed to leave the derriere smooth, glowing and bikini ready. Given this area is typically covered and rubbing against clothing all day, it’s common to have rashes or skin bumps. You can use the same at home exfoliating cleanser used on the neck. Dr. Papantoniou reminds people to exfoliate with gentle pressure in circular motions, no scrubbing.
9. Knees & Elbows: The skin in these two areas is thicker, dryer and may turn either ashy or brighter pink depending on skin color.  A thick paste made from baking soda and milk applied to a cloth and rubbed in circular motion three times weekly will help considerably. Maintain these rough areas with a lotion that contains urea (excipial brand) or lactic acid (amlactin brand), these can be found over the counter at the drug store.
10. Feet: Of course a pedicure is a great way to get feet ready for open shoes after months of being hidden away. It is important to bring your own tools for clipping and cleaning nails and trimming cuticles, otherwise you risk getting an infection. An at home foot detox calls for soaking feet in Epsom salt and hot (but not boiling) water for 15 minutes. Use a pumice stone to remove dead skin. Follow up by applying a paste comprised of bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Then after 15 minutes rinse off and dry. Clean each toenail with a nail cleaning tool and moisturize with a few drops of baby oil.
 
About Dr. Kally Papantoniou:
Dr. Kally Papantoniou is a Cosmetic Dermatologist, Board Certified by the American Board of Dermatology. She specializes in Injectables, Lasers, Surgical and General Dermatology for adults and pediatrics. She commenced her academic career at NYU College of Arts and Science with a double major in Biology and Hellenic studies with Honors. She then stayed in New York for her medical school training at SUNY Downstate, and then matriculated and spent a year as a medicine intern at LIJ. Dr. Papantoniou then returned to train at the premier Dermatology Residency Program at SUNY Downstate. She has authored articles in her field, and has presented research at national meetings. Dr. Papantoniou focuses on providing her patients with the highest level of care; she is a superb diagnostician, with a special interest in natural and healthy alternatives to treatments and disease prevention. She has a strong artistic background and applies her skill at natural symmetry and study of lines to her cosmetic patients.
Make sure you give some these ideas a try ~ it is a great way to pamper yourself and to get ready for summer or time!
Kaisy1