Yehwadam Revitalizing Moisture

I've spent the majority of my summer avoiding makeup. It's been too hot, too humid and I just haven't felt inspired to wear makeup that will quite literally melt off of my face. In the absence of makeup, skincare has become my best friend. I've always been into skincare, but I've never become obsessed with it. Until now. When I'm not out and about with the kids, I'm researching new ways to better my skin. In my quest to find the latest and greatest, I stumbled upon premium skincare brand Yehwadam.

The people at The Faceshop were kind enough to gift me the brand new Yehwadam sub-line; Yehwadam Revitalizing Moisture. This new line is formulated for those with combination to oily skin and promises intense moisture without a sticky, heavy or greasy feel. Although my skin type is typically dehydrated and dry, the summer has my skin all f'd up. I'm currently somewhere between normal/dehydrated/combo. The joy!

"Yehwadam is an anti-aging skincare line that brings traditional Korean herbs, ginseng and flowers into modern anti-aging. Yehwadam products are made with natural Korean ingredients processed by traditional methods passed down from one generation to another." 

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Yehwadam Revitalizing Moisture Fluid ($40, 150 ml) is a water based product that combines toner and lotion into a single step. It's formulated with Fresh Water Flower which contains 5 types of traditional herbal ingredients including Korean Ginsing, Safflower and Goji Berries.

I'm all about simplifying my routine, so I'm happy that this product can eliminate a step for me. I apply it after my serum and I find it absorbs very quickly - within a minute or so. It has a light scent and a non-sticky texture. What I like most about this lotion is that it feels very hydrating but without any sort of residual greasiness, heaviness or stickiness. My skin feels quenched and what I can only assume one would call 'normal'. I really feel like this is the perfect summer moisturizer for me. I'm not so sure it will cut it come fall, but for now it works amazingly well. If you have combo or oily skin, you will love this! Oh, and it comes with a pump and the bottle is huge. The value of this product is great - you get much more product, for less money than most.

Yehwadam Revitalizing Moisturizing Cream ($55, 50 ml) is a lightweight gel-cream that claims to hydrate the skin without leaving it sticky. It's formulated with oriental herbal ingredients grown in Korea. Peony, Lotus, Safflower, Chrysanthemum, Honeysuckle, Ginsing and Goji Berry to name a few!

Yehwadam Revitalizing Moisturizing Cream is light but more substantial than their Moisture Fluid. It applies like a gel but feels hydrating like a cream. I found it to absorb a lot slower and not entirely. I can still feel it on my face hours after applying it and it does feel slightly tacky for the first little while. I don't love it for summer days, unless I've been in the pool and my skin is parched, then it's great! I'm putting this one on the back burner for now, hoping to revisit it once the temperature starts to drop.

Yehwadam Revitalizing Moisturizing Sleeping Pack ($35, 100 ml) restores moisture to skin overnight leaving it looking refreshed the next morning. It contains the same ingredients as the other two products in this range; Peony, Lotus, Safflower, Chrysanthemum, Honeysuckle, Ginsing and Goji Berry.

I really, really like this sleeping pack. I think I may even like this as much as Shiseido's Ibuki Sleeping Mask. It goes on slightly sticky (like virtually all sleeping masks/packs) but unlike a lot of others, that feeling goes away fast. It feels crazy hydrating, I don't stick to my pillow and I wake up looking amazing. Can't beat the price either, it's a total win-win!

This was my first venture into Yehwadam and I'm very happy so far. Two out of the three products I would purchase with my own money (Revitalizing Moisture Fluid & Revitalizing Moisturizing Sleeping Pack) and I'm certainly interested in trying more from the brand. If you've used any products from Yehwadam, I would love to hear your thoughts on them!

Till next time beauties ✌

*PR samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opionions are my own.

Avon's NEW Bath + Body for Kids ~ Review

I remember being a kid and looking through Avon catalogues and feeling enchanted by all the pretty pictures. Makeup, lotions and seasonal items so colourful and fun! The concept was also intriguing and I would always want to order something for myself, too. I almost forgot about that excitement, until I saw it on my daughter's faces when some items from Avon's new bath + body for kids collection landed on my doorstep!

Avon Kids Superfoam Body Wash gently cleanses while being cheerfully coloured and delightfully scented. No parabens. No harsh soaps. No tears. Toxin free! 250 ml

Foam anything will get my kids attention so they loved this as soon as I told them the name! We received the Apple scent and it has a light, fruity scent to it that we all agree smells nice. One pump is perfect for cleansing when paired with a bath pouf and it leaves their skin feeling clean without drying it out. My oldest has sensitive skin and she can use this without irritation.

Avon Kids Soapy Slime Sweet Peach Body Cleanser - Goopy is good! A jolly jelly-like gel that wipes away dirt in the bath or shower. No parabens. No harsh soaps. No tears. Toxin free! 226 g

It goes without saying that this was a HUGE hit! I have yet to meet a kid who doesn't love slime and my girls are obsessed with this stuff. I'll admit I find it rather fun too and I was super surprised that they're actually pretty conservative with it. That's a good thing because a little goes a long way! It's supposed to be peach scented but I swear it smells like apples - whatever. It smells good regardless and my kiddos could care less about the scent, to them it's all about the texture!

Avon Kids Hocus Pocus Lotion Moisturizer works like magic. Creamy lotion soothes, smooths and moisturizes delicate skin. No parabens. No harsh soaps. No tears. Toxin free! 236 ml

This lotion smells so good I want to wear it, and sometimes I do..shhh! I can't get over the vanilla marshmallow scent and how thick and creamy it is. It feels rich but not overly heavy and it absorbs quickly. My youngest practically baths in it so I've had to hide it because she literally cakes herself with it. Clearly, it's been well received!

I'm quite impressed with this collection, as our my girls. I love that it's paraban free, void of harsh soaps, gentle on delicate skin and only $10 each! They love it for it's fun scents and exciting textures. If you have littles you should definitely look into this line. And while you're at it, get something fun for yourself. You deserve it 😉

You can purchase these and other Avon products locally with your independent Avon rep, or online at avon.ca

*PR samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

SIBU, Now Known as Sea Berry Therapy in Canada

Have you heard of SIBU Sea Berry Therapy? They're an American, natural and cruelty-free beauty brand. For those of you who are familiar with SIBU, they have rebranded and relaunched in Canada under the name Sea Berry Therapy. The products have remained the same, just the name has changed!

"The process by which Sea Berry is brought from the Himalayan Highlands to your shelf is nothing short of a labor of love, and it all starts with the Turkestanica Sea Berry. This tiny orange berry found only at 12,000 feet above sea level is known as the richest source of Omega-7 in the world, and has been used for more than 13 centuries because of its wealth of amazing properties, including 190 bioactive compounds." 

/source/ 

I was fortunate to have been gifted two Sea Berry Therapy products to try, and spoiler alert, I LOVE them both!

"Deep yet gentle cleansing is the basis for effective facial care at every age.  This naturally antibacterial sea buckthorn face wash gently removes dirt, impurities and make-up while maintaining a healthy balance in your skin without compromising its natural protective nutrients.  Sea Berry Polishing Facial Cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin, and will leave your face fresh, clean and perfectly balanced." 

/source/ 

Sea Berry Polishing Facial Cleanser has quickly become a favourite of mine. It comes in a pump (love pumps for EVERYTHING) and it really gets my face clean. It removes makeup, gets the oil and grime off, but it doesn't strip my skin. The exfoliation is mild but noticeable and it leaves my skin feeling smooth. Typically washing my face leaves my skin feeling taut and dry but not with this cleanser. I will definitely be purchasing it with my own money once this bottle is empty!

"Experience the ultimate in skin hydration.  This light, non-oily serum penetrates deep into your skin to help deeply hydrate your face and neck & eliminate flaky, dry skin. Infused with vitamins, Hyaluronic acid and Sea Berry (Sea Buckthorn) extract, this serum fortifies the skin against the aging process and helps repair damage at a cellular level."

Hydrating Serum is made with Hyaluronic Acid for deep hydration and is suitable for both oily and dry skin types alike. This lightweight serum has a pleasant scent and it absorbs so fast. My Skin feels soft and supple immediately after applying this. I find it adds a supple radiance which is always nice. If you have dry skin like I do, you will want to follow up with a moisturizer or cream. Oily skin types may find that this is all they need. Two thumbs up for this serum!

I am definitely interested in trying more from the brand so if you have any recommendations, I'd love to hear them!

*PR samples were generously provided to me for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula ~ Review + IG Giveaway

When it comes to summer skincare I adopt a less is more attitude. I don't want to layer on tons of skincare, so I rely on 'one and done' formulas to give me a healthy glow. When it comes to body care, I adopt the same attitude. I go for a light lotion and then cover myself in sunscreen. I adore summer scents (sunscreen, coconut, monoi oil, light florals) and I will always give preference to summer scented products over wearing perfume as I find my favourites are often too heavy for the heat and humidity of summer.

I was recently given the opportunity to try three NEW product's from Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula and I am just a little bit obsessed! The scents are fabulous and they're so hydrating - a definite win! And if you stick around til the end of my review, it could be a win for you too 😉

These new additions to the Palmer's range drench the skin in rich moisture for dewy, radiant skin that looks lit from within. These products are free of harsh chemicals, contain ethically and sustainability sourced Coconut Oil and Tahitian Monoï Oil, infused with Tiaré Flower Petals. Did I mention they smell like a summer dream?!

My favourite of the three has got to be the Coconut Oil Body Lotion. It's light, fast absorbing and gives my skin 24 hour moisture. It smells like delicious coconut and monoi, without being overpowering, and its formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, gluten, sulfate or dyes. This lotion is the bomb dot com and I can see myself using it year round reminiscing of carefree summers.

Palmer's Coconut Oil Body Oil contains the same hydration benefits as the lotion but in concentrated oil form. This Body Oil doesn't smell quite as strong as the lotion which is a slight let down for me, but it still smells nice. It adds an instant touch of radiance to my skin and I am here for it! This oil sinks in and doesn't feel heavy on but it is an oil and I'm not that into oils in the summer. Having said that, I would wear it if I were going out in the evening because it adds such a lovely glow.

Lastly, Palmer's Coconut Oil Luminous Hydration Facial Oil. I wasn't expecting much from this facial oil and I'm not exaggerating when I say that it's really good.

This oil is non-greasy, fast absorbing and very hydrating. It features 10 pure, precious oils to boost hydration, nourish skin and add radiance. These are the miracle working oils you will find in Palmer's Coconut Oil Luminous Hydration Facial Oil (in no particular order)

·Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera)

·Tahitian Monoi Oil (Gardenia Tahitensis Flower)

·Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis)

·Macadamia Oil (Ternifolia)

·Argan Oil (Argonia Spinosa)

·Grapeseed Oil (Vitis Vinifera)

·Maracuja (Passionflower) Oil (Passiflora Edulis)

·Sunflower Oil (Helianthus Annuus)

·Apricot Oil (Prunus Armeniaca)

·Sesame Oil (Sesamum Indicum)

Now I haven't been using this consistently so I can't really say what the long term effects are. I will say that upon application my skin looks glowing (not super dewy - thank goodness) and it feels super smooth. Surprisingly enough it's fast absorbing and my skin is perfectly balanced requiring no additional creams or lotions. I can see myself really getting into this come fall when I want to glow and need the extra boost of hydration. Currently, I'm only using it in the evenings when I need a little pick me up.

Oh, and I should note that it's important to exercise caution when using oils in the summer. Make sure to always apply sunscreen and use oils sparingly - you will burn otherwise. I learned this lesson the hard way many years ago.

TLDR; I am LOVING Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula and I know that you will too! And guess what? I've partnered with Palmer's to give THREE of my Canadian readers the chance to try these three products too! Hurray!!

Entering is simple; find my Palmer's post on Instagram and follow the instructions for your first entry (mandatory). Then come back here and leave a comment to gain a bonus entry. And don't forget to include your Instagram handle with your comment so I can assign you your bonus entry.

I will be drawing 3 winners in a week and the sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment. Canadians only and absolutely no giveaway accounts.


Good luck!


*PR samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

New in Dior ~ Hydra Life

Skincare is sooooo important, especially when you have less than ideal skin. I've had my fair share of skin issues and unfortunately that doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon. I can only imagine how much worse it would be if I didn't take care of my skin.

Thanks to a long winter, my skin is incredibly dehydrated. It got bad. Really bad. I started using Dior's Capture Youth Line (you can find my review here) and it started to improve but my skin needed just a bit more hydration. I was kindly gifted some new items from Dior's Hydra Life line and I thought I would share my first impressions.

"Even More NATURE

83% natural ingredients, new (at Dior) floral active ingredients

Formulas purified of parabens, containing even less silicone"

The Dior Hydra Life routine is a minimalist dream. With only 3 steps, it's simple and very effective. What I love the most about this range is how gentle it is on my skin. I've come to realize that I have sensitive skin, and I loathe the redness I get when my skin gets angry. I've learned that in order to properly care for my skin, I need gentle products with lots of hydrating properties.

The first step in the Hydra Life routine is prep using the Life 2-in-1 Sorbet Water (175ml, $52 CAD). I haven't personally used this, so I can't comment on its efficacy. I do know that it's used after cleansing to hydrate and balance the skin. AKA toner.

After prepping the skin, it's time to hydrate with Life Intense Sorbet Rich Crème (50ml, $82).  The two star ingredients of this crème are Mallow Butter and Chamomile. Mallow Butter nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier to keep water in cells while Chamomile helps to calm irritation. It can be applied daily or as a night mask during times of high sensitivity (changing seasons, stress, etc). This cream is great for dehydrated skin to soothe, soften and strengthen. It's like a tall drink of water for your skin!

Life Intense Sorbet Rich Crème is a delightful shade of baby blue that has a very fun texture. It feels exactly as you would expect it to; creamy yet light and reminiscent of sorbet. When initially applied it feels cooling and very refreshing. With the sorbet crème texture I was expecting it to sit on my face but it didn't, it sank right in. My skin feels instantly hydrated without feeling heavy or greasy. The feeling of hydration is long lasting too. This is going to be my fall-winter cream.

The final step is to awaken the look with Life Sorbet Eye Gel (15ml, $70 CAD). This eye gel has 3 star ingredients - Cornflower Water to decongest puffiness, Micronized Mineral Powders to illuminate and correct dark circles and Abyssinica Oil to nourish, protect and strengthen lashes and eyebrows. The Sorbet Eye Gel also has a ceramic applicator to give an ice cube effect.

I've said it before and I'll say it again; eye care is important! I started using eye cream in my very early 20's and it shows. When it comes to eye cream I'm picky. It has to be hydrating but not so much that it causes an excess of milia and it has to be gentle. Life Sorbet Eye Gel fits the bill and then some.

Out of all the 'cooling' applicators I've tried (and I've tried many) this one takes the cake! The ceramic tip is so cold and refreshing setting the stage perfectly for the eye gel, which is equally as cool and refreshing. I've been into lymphatic massage lately and this applicator makes it easy plus it feels so good. 

No skincare routine is complete without makeup removal. There are two new cleansers; Life Micellar Milk No Rinse Cleanser (200ml, $49 CAD) and Life Triple Impact Makeup Remover (125ml, $42 CAD). I have been using the Triple Impact Makeup Remover, a bi-phase solution that removes heavier makeup on sensitive areas of the skin. The key ingredients in this makeup remover are Lily Extract to make the lashes appear more beautiful and a licorice-based ingredient to soothe the eye contour.

Life Triple Impact Makeup Remover is an effective eye makeup remover, but it's no different than any other. It removes regular eye makeup easily, but I still find myself having to wipe and wipe and wipe away waterproof mascara. I will say that it leaves my skin and lashes feeling super soft, but I can't justify the price tag. I like it, but I don't see myself purchasing it in the future.

You can find Dior's Hydra Life in store and online at sephora.ca, at Hudson's Bay and thebay.com and at Dior counters nationwide.

*press samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Dior Capture Youth

Yesterday is over.

Tomorrow is too late.

The time is now.

A motto: take action now - no regrets. The Dior skincare (r)evolution is here! Dior science has taken inspiration from modern medicine, to delay signs of aging before they appear. So instead of only treating the damage done, Dior's Capture Youth is actively preventing future damage - before it even shows up!

Take action now. Anticipate, control and maximize the youthfulness of our skin. A selection of the most powerful natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin, and eco designed packaging are just a few features of this line.

Each regimen is individually personalized, allowing you to cherry pick what you need and pass on what you don't. At the heart of this range is Dior Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème ($120, 50ml) an ultra prevention crème that helps to delay visible signs of aging. Formulated with Iris Florentina (an antioxidant) to stimulate the skins internal resistance process. Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème deeply nourishes the skin, leaving it retexturized and toned.

I didn't think it was possible to fall so deeply in love with a facial cream, until now. This crème to me is what PB is to jelly, what a bee is to honey... But seriously though - it's a must have! The texture is lightweight and smooth, yet deeply hydrating. My skin was in a bad place when I started using this. It was dry, dehydrated and suffering all kinds of nightmare breakouts. Now, it's hydrated, soothed and with no painful breakouts. I have gotten a few whiteheads, but that's normal for me. My bank is dreading the day this crème runs out because I don't think I can live without it!

To make the most out Dior's Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème, you should need to pair it with their Targeted Expert Serums. There are 5 serums to choose from, and you can use as many (or as few) as you want. In order to maximize efficacy, you should limit it to 2 serums at a time to suit the skins needs. If you have multiple skin concerns, make sure to divide them into a morning and a night routine.  For example, I use Plump Filler + Redness Soother in the morning, and Plump Filler + Lift Sculptor (or Glow Booster) in the evening.

After you've selected your serum(s) you can decide your application method.

1. Layering

   Apply the serum, then the crème

     ‎

     2. Mix & Match

     Mix 2 to 3 drops of serum directly in the crème (in the palm of your hand)

             3. Intensive Treatment

     Apply a serum then the crème for 30 days as a cure when the skin is particularly stressed                     (change of seasons/skin issues/repeated irritation)

As I mentioned earlier, there are 5 serums to choose from and they're all priced the same ($120)

Glow Booster Illuminating Serum. Restore Radiance - Vitamin C 

100 times more concentrated in vitamin C than oranges, Murunga Plum combined with AHA combine to brighten the complexion and to even skin texture irregularities.

The Plump Filler Plumping Serum - Hyaluronic Acid

Three different weights of botanical hyaluronic acid from fermented wheat hydrates and replenishes the skin to make it appear fuller and more supple. Ideal as an intensive treatment (in winter) or to fight against environmental stressors (dryness, sun)

The Lift Sculptor Lifting Serum

Sculpt + Lift - Polyphenols

Polyphenols derived from a tea blend (green & white) boost elastin production to visibly lift and sculpt the skin for firmer, more defined skin contours.

The Redness Soother Anti-Redness Soothing Serum

Natural peptides from cotton reduce redness and irritation for a smoother, more even complexion . The ideal anti-aggressor shield it calms and relieves irritated and sensitized skin.

The Matte Maximizer Mattifying Serum

Matte + Refine + Lactic Acid (for oily skin)

Lactic acid derived from sugar cane regulates excess sebum to help reduce shine and refine pores. A soft focus matte blur and complexion refiner.

My typical morning Capture Youth routine is super fast and incredibly effective. I typically skip washing my face in the am (just a quick rinse with water) and dive right into Capture Youth Plump Filler. I add two drops to my hands and apply it directly onto my face. It has a light scent and my skin drinks it up right away. After a minute or so, I spot treat my cheeks with a drop of Redness Soother and then mix another drop into Capture Youth and apply all over (eye area too). My skin is instantly hydrated and my face looks calm. I'm not going to lie and say that my redness vanishes into thin air, but it's certainly reduced.

In the evening, I remove my makeup and wash my face with Dior Hydra Life Lotion to Foam Fresh Cleanser ($49, 190 ml) apply Plump Filler all over (same method as am) and then follow with 2 drops of Lift Sculptor. I do this four days a week. The other 3 days I swap out Lift Sculptor for Glow Booster and follow with Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème. After using this combo for a few weeks I have to admit that my skin is looking pretty darn good. I started to notice an ever so slight slackening of skin around my jaws (yikes x 1000) and this has pretty much froze it in time. I'm glad I caught it,  and I hope that it will delay any further slackening. When I use Glow Booster I notice an immediate radiance - one that lasts! I prefer to use it at night since it is an AHA - in case you weren't aware, they make your skin so much more sensitive to sun. Even though I use it at night, it's still on my face the next day so I make sure to load up on sunscreen. Always, and I mean always wear sunscreen when you use AHA's!

One of the most common complaints I hear from people is the heavy 'scent' of certain products. I personally enjoy a nice scent, but so many people don't. With Dior products, you will notice that they have a natural/botanical scent to them. DO NOT BE ALARMED! These scents are naturally occurring and they will not harm sensitive skin. People mistakenly believe that all scents are added and that 'scent free' is better and that's not always the case. A Dior Pro explained it this way: coffee beans naturally contain caffeine. In order to make them decaf, the beans need to be processed - often chemically - to remove it. This is not natural, and it's over-processed. Dior does not process their products to remove their natural scents. Doesn't seem so bad now, does it?

Oh and I almost forgot! Dior has revamped their packaging to be more eco-friendly. Long gone are the cardboard inserts and cellophane sleeves. Dior is aiming to use as little as they can when packaging their products. And their inks are vegetable based!

In in love with this line - 100% and I know that you will be too. If you can only choose one product, go with the Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème  If you can get 2, add in a Glow Booster Serum and thank me later 😉

You can find the Capture Youth Range in store & online at sephora.ca in store at Shoppers Drug Mart & online at beautyboutique.ca in store & online at thebay.com and Holt Renfrew & holtrenfrew.com

*pr samples were generously provided to me for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

NeoStrata Aqua Youth Filling Anti-Wrinkle Creams ~ First Impressions

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occuring substance found in our skin. HA has the ability to attract and hold large amounts of moisture, which help to keep our skin hydrated and supple.  At its peak in our youth, it tends to decline as we age. As our HA levels deplete we start to notice slackening of skin, loss of pliability and radiance. Luckily, you can add hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine!

NeoStrata, often on the forefront of drugstore skincare, has recently launched a specific line of products full of hyaluronic acid. Aqua Youth Filling Anti-Wrinkle Creams contain 2x  HA (0.2% to be exact) to fill in wrinkles, crows feet and to provide intense hydration. There are two products in this line; Aqua Youth Filling Anti-Wrinkle Cream and Aqua Youth Filling Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream. Both contain 0.2% HA and claim to provide intense hydration immediately and continuously for up to 48hrs. These creams are suitable for all skin types, but dehydrated types will benefit the most. They're non-comedogenic and non-irritating, so even those with sensitive skin can use them.

Aqua Youth Filling Anti-Wrinkle Cream ($49, 50 ml) is not a new product, rather a reformulated one. I've used the original and liked it, although I didn't find it to be super special. In all fairness, my skin was more combo then, whereas now I'm quite dry and dehydrated. It's probably not going to come as a shock when I say that I can appreciate this cream a lot more today than I did a few years ago. My skin soaks up the HA and feels amazing after. I'm hydrated, I glow and I'm smooth - a win.

I have a love-hate relationship when it comes to eye cream. I've been wearing them since turning 20 and it shows - my eyes look pretty darn good for someone in their 30s! But, my eye area is crazy sensitive and reactive. I have to be careful what I use otherwise I'll end up with eczema. I'm happy to say that NeoStrata's Aqua Youth Filling Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream ($39, 15 ml) passed the sensitivity test!

Usually I'm pretty 'meh' when it comes to fancy applicators on eye creams but I'm digging this one. I like how the cream comes out on one side and on the other there is a metal massaging tool. It actually fits my under eye well and feels really soothing. I don't get nearly as much sleep as I should, and my tired eyes appreciate the cooling sensation. The cream itself is lightweight, fast absorbing and very hydrating. I notice that the few line lines I have plump up and are less noticeable. I would (and likely will) purchase this in the future.

You can find these and other NeoStrata products in-store at Shoppers Drug Mart, online at beautyboutique.ca and well.ca

*press samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own!

Give The Gift Of Youthful Skin This Holiday ~ Robin McGraw Revelation

Last month I featured some amazing products from Robin McGraw Revelation (read here) and today I'm back with some more awesome products from Robin's line that would make fabulous stocking stuffers!

"This antioxidant foaming gel cleanser gently and thoroughly removes all traces of makeup, dirt and oil, leaving skin soft, supple, and glowing. The balanced formula contains hydrating and purifying ingredients to cleanse without stripping skin." 

/source/ 

Foaming Joy! Purifying Facial Cleanser ($22, 120 ml) contains Chamomile Extract for its anti-inflammatory, soothing and astringent properties as well as Green Tea Oil for its anti-aging and antioxidant properties. There's even Apple Fruit Extract, a natural AHA, to exfoliate and encourage cell renewal.

This cleanser is actually a gel, not a foam as its name would suggest. It does foam up though and it cleanses without stripping. I use a dime sized amount after removing my makeup, and It leaves my skin refreshed.

"Achieve a refreshed, relaxed, and younger-looking complexion with this advanced formulation. An innovative blend of four unique peptides relaxes and smooths the appearance of expression lines to help diminish the visible signs of aging." 

/source/ 

Face It, You Look Amazing! Revitalizing Serum ($38, 15 ml) contains three key ingredients to assist in preventing visible signs of aging by reducing expression lines.

Ginseng Root Extract

Valued as an anti-aging ingredient, due to the many phytonutrients found in the plant, with anti-aging and energy-supporting properties that help to tone and brighten the skin.

Purslane Extract

This cute little plant is also loaded with antioxidants like Beta Carotene, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Omega 3 Fatty Acids. It has long been used to treat skin disorders and wounds.

Gotu Kola Extract

An ancient healing plant, modern science has recognized it’s calming and healing properties. Rich in amino acids and Beta Carotene, it helps stimulate new cell growth and build collagen.

I've only been using this serum for slightly over a week, so I can't comment on its long term effects (yet). I can say that a little goes a long way, and it feels so hydrating on my skin. I've just started to develop some expression lines on my forehead, so fingers crossed I see some results! FYI, this serum is for expression lines (not all over your face). Apply it to your forehead, between the brows and crows feet.

"Wake up to a repaired, refreshed complexion! This unique nightly treatment addresses multiple visible signs of aging while protecting skin from future damage. Increase firmness and elasticity, balance skin tone, and restore skin’s moisture all while you sleep." 

/source/ 

Hydra Qwench Moisturizing Night Cream ($42, 30 ml) contains a healthy dose of Squalane - an antioxidant that feeds skin cells to promote cell growth, Hyaluronic Acid to promote collagen production and to plump skin, as well as Caprylic Acid.

This night cream is so rich and hydrating! I apply this as the final step in my skincare routine and I'm so impressed. I wake up to skin that looks even, rested and hydrated. Perfect for Canadian winters!

I have yet to try a product from Robin McGraw that I don't like, so yes, I totally recommend them!

To learn more and purchase these products, visit robinmcgrawrevelation.com

Press samples were generously provided to me for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Robin McGraw Revelation

When it comes to skincare, I typically shy away from celebrity endorsed or created brands because I feel like they can get over hyped or sometimes, flat out gimmicky. So why am I writing a post about Robin McGraw Revelation you ask? The answer is as simple as this; I had no idea who she was (FYI she's Dr. Phil's wife).

Robin McGraw skincare came to be in 2014 and has been expanding since then. There are a few different lines available, and today I'm sharing my thoughts on a few products from the Brightening, Dryness and Anti-Aging ranges.

"Turn on your inner light! Reveal your most radiant, youthful complexion with this multi-action polishing scrub. Featuring a proprietary Triple Action Brightening Complex, this formula works to refine pores and fade the appearance of dark spots and discoloration."

/source/ 

Twinkle, Twinkle, You're A Star! Triple Action Brightening Polish ($28, 50ml) contains pumice (ground volcanic stone) to soften and smooth as well as Bentonite Clay to draw out impurities and remove excess oil. This polish is gentle and effective. I use it twice a week in the evenings and my skin looks so much more radiant after using it.

Serum is an important part of any skincare routine (especially after the age of 30). I've been using two different serums from Robin McGraw and I'm in love with them both!

"Promise your complexion a brighter future. Formulated with a proprietary Triple Action Brightening Complex and highly stabilized 10% Vitamin C, this potent serum fades the appearance of existing spots and discoloration, protects, brightens and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles." 

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Let There Be Bright Triple Action Brightening Serum ($66, 30ml) contains a triple brightening complex consisting of Lumiskin, Brightenyl and Vitamin C to help fade the appearance of dark spots and to brighten the complexion. There's also SulforaWhite (sourced from Swiss Cress Sprouts) to inhibit melanin production and Coconut Fruit for intense hydration.

This serum has the typical Vitamin C scent but it's not overpowering. The texture is along the lines of a moisturizer and 3 pumps is enough to cover my face and neck. It absorbs quickly and it leaves my face with a nice glow. Although it is hydrating, my skin definitely needs moisturizer after.

"Gift yourself a younger-looking complexion. This serum with 0.3% Retinol helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and pores, while Vitamin C helps visibly brighten dull skin. Powered by a unique time-released technology, this potent yet balanced serum gradually delivers Retinol to minimize irritation and maximize visible results."

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Welcome Back Youth Serum ($38, 15ml) contains 0.3% Retinol to target fine lines and wrinkles, AcquaBio & Larch Tree Extract for retaining hydration and Vitamin C for brightening and free radical protection.

I've been using this serum 3x a week in the evening and it's definitely made a difference in my skin! I appear more rested and my face is soft and smooth. It absorbs very quickly and it has a light scent to it that dissipates fairly quickly. A lot of products containing retinol can be quite harsh, but this serum is so gentle. I highly recommend it!

"This non-greasy daily moisturizer infuses thirsty skin with the hydration it needs. Our unique formulation combines Sodium PCA, Apple Fruit, and Green Tea extract to help restore moisture for optimum skin health and a younger-looking complexion." /source/

Hydrated Skin = Youth Plump Perfecting Moisturizer ($42, 45 ml) is a light moisturizer that's perfect for everyday use. It's formulated with Safflower Seed Oil for it's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Bentonite Clay to absorb excess oil and Apple Fruit Extract to create a barrier to aid in water retention.

I've been using this moisturizer consistely (it's basically empty) and although I like it, I'm not in love with it. I found that I needed to use a lot (4 to 5 pumps) for my face to feel quenched. I could make it work for the summer and early fall,  it it definitely won't work for me come winter. I think this moisturizer would be best for those with normal to combination skin.

"Wake up to brighter, smoother, healthier-looking skin every day! This nourishing night treatment contains a proprietary Triple Action Brightening Complex and stabilized Vitamin C to help reduce the appearance of dark spots for a more supple, radiant complexion." /source/ 

Starlight, Face Bright Triple Action Brightening Night Cream ($50, 30ml) contains the same triple brightening complex as the serum as well as a peptide blend to support collagen maintenance and AcquaBio to ensure optimal moisture levels are maintained.

This night cream has quickly become a favourite of mine! It's thick and rich, yet not heavy at all. A little goes a long way and it leaves my face feeling instantly hydrated. When I wake up my skin looks so calm and my skin tone is even. I'm seriously loving this night cream.

Robin McGraw really did a great job with this range of skincare products. The packaging is gorgeous and the products work well. I give this line two thumbs up!

If you would like to purchase Robin McGraw's skincare products, visit robinmcgrawrevelation.com

*Press sample were generously provided for editorial consideration