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Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50

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It’s no lie that I’m a huge fan of Dermalogica products, even if it has been quite a while since I’ve had it in my skincare regimen.  Dermalogica always offers products that I know I can add to my routine without worrying too much that it will cause my very sensitive skin to react harshly.

Dermalogica dynamic skin recovery

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Recently I have had the opportunity to test drive the Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 ($65.00 1.7 fl oz) and used this product as my daily moisturizer.  Since it has a high SPF, I was very excited and couldn’t wait to test drive this product.  Having used Dermalogica products in the past, I was excited to give this product a run and see how it would work for me.

This medium-weight daily moisturizer contains a new formula upgrade that accelerates the product’s SPF from 30 to 50, yet uses 50% less chemical sunscreen agents – a massive increase made possible through advanced Oleosome technology. Oleosomes are naturally occurring spheres of emollient oils and Vitamin E found in Safflower seeds.  these unique molecules are used to deliver active ingredients such as sunscreens directly to the skin surface, and release them over time to ensure maximum skin benefits.

Dermalogica dynamic skin recovery I have been using this product for a month and while it offered me awesome hydration and my skin remained moisturized, I did have minor eczema flare ups during the time of use.  Now, I don’t necessarily consider this a negative since my flare ups can happen at any time and with any product.  Sometimes I can be out in an area where their Air Conditioning unit needs to be cleaned and it will flare up – so it may not necessarily be the product itself.  I love the texture and feel of this lotion and it really offered my skin great moisture making it feel soft and supple.

Dermalogica dynamic skin recovery Dispensing this product is easy and the packaging is sleek and easily stored in your skin care cabinet or vanity.  This product is formulated without artificial fragrances, colors or parabens and let me just say… it feels great when smoothed on the skin.  I’m usually a bit afraid to use skin care products with a high SPF rating because I know that it will make my face or skin feel really sticky and a lot of times, the product doesn’t soak into the skin as much as I would like, leaving a funky film on my face.  In this case, this product is nothing like an SPF skin care lotion I have tried before.  It soaked into my skin nicely and as I mentioned, left my skin feeling very soft.

Dermalogica dynamic skin recovery Not too thick, not too thin but a pretty nice consistency.  You can tell as you start to rub the product in that it may have sunscreen in the product, but it also blends in nicely allowing for a fresh and soft canvas for applying makeup.

In addition to shielding the skin from ongoing solar assault, Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 reduces hyperpigmentation, and contains a patented polypeptide which helps to stimulate collagen synthesis, as well as antioxidant White Tea polyphenols to help regulate collagen degradation.

Dermalogica dynamic skin recovery

Ingredients

Active ingredients: Avobenzone (3.0%), Octinoxate (7.5%). Other ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Carthamus Tinctorius Oleosomes, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Dimethicone, Dimethyl Capramide, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Aniba Rosaeodora Wood Oil, Rose Flower Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus Leaf/Flower Oil, Citrus Medica Limonum Peel Oil, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum Peel Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Algae Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Lecithin, Glucosamine HCL, Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide, Tocopheryl Acetate, Squalane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polysilicone-11, Glycine Soja Protein, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Ceteareth-20, Sodium Polyacrylate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Decyl Glucoside, Polysorbate 80, Urea, Galactoarabinan, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Polysorbate 60, Aminomethyl Propanol, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Linalool, Eugenol, Limonene, Geraniol, Citronellol, CI 77891

Overall, I’m impressed with this moisturizer and love that it keeps my skin feeling soft and moisturized all day long.  While I would use an additional primer over this product if that is something you do prior to foundation, I think that this product could be used as a base on your skin prior to makeup application.  I love the SPF benefits of this product – especially since I live in Hawaii and sun is a given year round.  The price point is about average for Dermalogica products, but it’s definitely worth it considering the brand is great and offers great skincare products.  While I will not be using this as my main source of moisturizer moving forward, I will definitely be using this in combination with some of my favorite skin care goods.

Interested in learning more about what Dermalogica offers?  Head on over to their website and check it out: http://bit.ly/DSRSPF50

Signature Honey

 

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Adovia Moisturizing Day Cream

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Adovia Moisturizing Day Cream

 

It is an absolute requirement that I use moisturizer on a daily basis, two times a day because of my eczema and the fact that it flares up the worst when my skin is dry.  Because of this, I’m always on the hunt for one that will not only provide me with great moisturizing capabilities, but is fragrance free or has a light scent and soaks into the skin quickly and nicely so my face doesn’t feel like an oil slick.  I have tried many and I have my favorites, but recently I have had the opportunity to try out one from Adovia.  I have used Adovia products before in the past and while some worked well for me, others I have to use in moderation because of my sensitive skin – but overall, I’ve always been impressed.

adovia moisturizing day cream

The Adovia Day Moisturizing Cream (on sale for $25.95 1.7 fl.oz / 50ml – normally $46.00) is a quick absorbing and non-greasy daytime formula.  It is infused with Dead Sea minerals and aloe vera.  I actually like using this cream at night since it is thicker and perfect for evening moisturizing.  This cream is Hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested and offers deep hydration for your skin to bring out its natural radiance.  One application provides all-day moisture without clogging pores.  Adovia moisturizing cream contains an active complex of Dead Sea minerals for natural moisture balance that is easier for skin to retain and this cream makes an ideal makeup base.

Ingredients
Demineralised Water & Dead Sea Water, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Bergamot (Citrus Aurantium Bergamia) Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Grape (Vitis Vinifera) Seed Oil, Caprilyc/Capric Triglyceride, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol & Chamomile (Anthemis Noblis) Extract & Algae Extract & Papaya (Carica Papaya) Extract & Aloe Vera Barbadensis Gel, Urea, Lactic Acid, Dimethicone, Benzoic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzalkoinium Chloride, Retinyl Palmitate, Dead Sea Salt, Benzophenone-3.

adovia moisturizing day cream

Like I mentioned previously, this is a thick moisturizer and while it worked okay for me during the day – I really rather use it at night.  I felt like it was just too heavy for me to use during the day and while I didn’t feel greasy or oily, I felt like I was wearing foundation and it didn’t soak into my skin very quickly.  When I used it at night, it soaks into my skin much quicker and I wake up in the morning with my skin feeling very soft and moisturized.  This product has a light fragrance, almost like a lotion but it is not easily detected unless you literally smell the product.  I love that it has that “almost body butter” texture to it because it smooths on so nicely and luxuriously.

adovia moisturizing day cream

I have been enjoying how easy it is to apply – I simply use circular motions with my finger tips to apply to my face.  Also – since I have very sensitive skin, I was a bit leery to try a new moisturizer but have been liking this product overall.  If I do use this product in the morning for the day – I always make sure to apply the moisturizer at least 30 minutes to an hour before leaving the house, that way I can really take the time to work the product into my skin and let it sit a bit before I head on out into the humid weather.  While it can give me the feeling of foundation on my face when used during the day (as I mentioned previously), if I give it some time to soak in well, it really does offer great moisture through the day.  If I am in a rush, I don’t normally pull for this particular product.

Overall I do like this moisturizer and the fact that it keeps my skin hydrated and soft.  I would definitely recommend this product, especially since the price is pretty darn affordable.

Signature Honey

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

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Petunia Skincare Professional Hyaluronic Acid Serum

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petunia skincare hyaluronic acid serum

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Skin care products are very important in my skin care regimen and that goes for serums.  I never personally paid much attention to my skin growing up – mainly because the beach and surfing was so important to me, I really didn’t have many break outs or issues with my skin – even through puberty.  After graduating from high school, I realized my skin started to freak out… but the adult life had taken over my hobbies and I wasn’t spending as much time in the ocean as I would have liked.  Of course, makeup and lack of taking care of my skin definitely took its toll until I started experiencing with different skin care products which of course, included serums.

petunia skincare hyaluronic acid serum

 

Hyaluronic Acid Serums are essential in my skin care regimen and I use it two times a day.  Since I have severe eczema flare ups, I’m always in need of a product that works well in combination with my moisturizers to keep my skin supple and hydrated.  If my skin becomes too dry, I have a flare up which can take days to a month to clear up once it begins.  I have tried over 10 different brands of Hyaluronic Serum and while all of them have worked well for me, I am proud to say I found a favorite.

Petunia Skincare is becoming one of my favorite skin care brands offering products for my skin regimen that are gentle and easy to use.  You get 1 fl oz (30ml) bottle for about $23.00 and the packaging is easy to use.

petunia skincare hyaluronic acid serum

 

I’m not fond of sticky serums or those that are so thick or liquidy that it can take a while for the product to soak into my skin.  Since I use several serums both morning and night, I need a product that will allow me to apply the rest of my products quickly so I’m ready to go and can be on my way.  Petunia’s Hyaluronic acid comes in a pump style bottle that allows you to use one to two pumps to cover your whole face.  It smooths into the skin quickly and is not sticky at all.  The serum has a light citrus scent – very light and is clear.  While it has a gel like appearance and texture, it is not thick but feels more like a liquid which I like.

Overall – I’m impressed with this product, the amount you receive and the price tag.  I have used a few products from Petunia and I’m very impressed with the skin care line altogether.

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

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Exuviance Illumination Duo Set

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Exuviance

SPONSORED / PRESS SAMPLE

With new technology and science constantly evolving – skin care has definitely improved over the years.  Now, serums and cleansers, moisturizers and more are available for those looking for younger, brighter, youthful skin.  I have used quite a few different brands and types of skincare over the year, but Exuviance has definitely given me the opportunity to try out something unique and cool.  The last week I have felt like a scientist and I think it’s pretty cool – lol.

This duo combines the power of our nighttime transformer, Evening Restorative Complex, with the 100% pure active formulation of Vitamin C+ Anti-aging Booster for a potent anti-aging cocktail that combats the visible signs of aging.

Exuviance

Now I have heard of Exuviance before, recently actually… but have never tried any of the products they offer, so this gave me the opportunity to see if this worked for me.  Like I mentioned previously, it kind of reminds me of doing a science experiment because you take one product and mix with the other.  I was impressed by how easy it all came together and how simple the product was to mix and use.

Exuviance Illumination Duo combines the power of our nighttime transformer, Exuviance Evening Restorative Complex, with the 100% pure active formulation of Exuviance Vitamin C+ Antiaging Booster for a potent antiaging cocktail that combats the visible signs of aging.

Exuviance

The Evening Restorative Complex I received is made for normal/combination skin.  It is clinically proven to repair the signs of aging.  PHA/Bionic Complex plus antioxidants improve fine lines and texture.  Retailing for $48.00 (on its own), it includes 1.75oz/50g worth of product.  Dermatologist-developed and created by Drs. Van Scott and Yu, this product is non-comedogenic and allergy tested.

Ingredients Evening Restorative Complex: Aqua (Water), Gluconolactone, Propylene Glycol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glycerin, PEG-100 Stearate, Lactobionic Acid, Octyldodecyl Myristate, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, C12-15 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ethoxydiglycol, Palmitic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone, Ceteareth 20, Tocopheryl (Vitamin E) Acetate, Ascorbyl (Vitamin C) Palmitate, Retinyl (Vitamin A) Palmitate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Algae Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Echinacea Purpurea (Coneflower) Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylic/Capric/Stearic Triglyceride, Xanthan Gum, Steareth-2, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Ammonium Hydroxide, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Phosphatidyl Choline, Polyacrylamide, Octyldodecanol, Disodium EDTA, Myristic Acid, Laureth-7, Disteareth-100 IPDI, Methylparaben, Chlorphenesin, Parfum (Fragrance), Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxyisohexyl-3-Cyclohexenecarboxaldehyde, Butyl Phenyl Methylpropional, CI 42090 (Blue #1), CI 19140 (Yellow #5).

Exuviance

– Evening Restorative Complex is clinically proven to improve overall skin texture, tone, and appearance
– 90% saw smoother skin after 4 weeks of using Exuviance Evening Restorative Complex
– Vitamin C+ Antiaging Booster amps up the effects of the Evening Restorative Complex, helping to fade the look of dark spots while improving firmness and smoothing wrinkles

The powerful Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) Gluconolactone in Evening Restorative Complex decreases lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone and improves roughness and texture. Lactobionic Acid – a potent antioxidant – inhibits wrinkles from forming, plumps and firms the skin, and enhances clarity. This bionic blend of PHAs, along with botanicals and Vitamins A, C and E, delivers full-strength anti-aging benefits without drying or irritation, even on the most sensitive skin types.

Exuviance

The Exuviance Vitamin C+ Antiaging Booster retails for $72.00 and you get 10g/0.35oz worth of product.  This targeted treatment is formulated to restore firmness, smooth lines, diminish the look of age spots and protect against future damage.  This particular product is powder like and can get a bit messy so take your time working with it and use the attachments that come with the booster for ease of use.

Ingredients Vitamin C+ Antiaging Booster: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Gluconolactone, Acetyl Cysteine, Zinc Gluconate, Arginine.  

Exuviance

The Vitamin C+ Anti-aging booster is quite unique and unlike any other product I have tried before.  Each night I take just a few shakes (a small scoop is included if you want to go that route) and mix it with the daily  moisturizer before applying to my face.

The 100% pure active formulation of Vitamin C+ Antiaging Booster contains Vitamin C, an essential co-factor in collagen synthesis, known for its power to strengthen skin’s matrix, improve firmness and smooth wrinkles. Plus, we’ve added our patented super antioxidant, Aceta-C™, to enhance the natural antiaging effects of Vitamin C, amplifying its skin-protecting and pigment-evening effects. Together, they help fade the appearance of unwanted dark spots, and strengthen skin’s defenses against future discoloration and signs of aging. (What does 100% actives mean? The formula does not contain water or fillers, etc. All the ingredients are benefit ingredients.)

I haven’t used these products long enough to see any visible results, but I have definitely enjoyed using it the last week.  While it was a bit intimidating to use at first, after putting it together for the first time, it was simple thereafter.  My skin does feel moisturized and I like that the product itself does not have a strong scent.  The moisturizer is a great creamy like consistency – that similar to body lotion, with a little more body.  Application is easy and it soaks into my skin nicely and quickly so that I’m not worried about the product sitting on the surface over night.  Since I do have severely sensitive skin, I did notice that I had a slight reaction to the product, leaving my face a little red and irritated, but I noticed it only happened a few times and for the most part, the products worked well and overall did a pretty good job.  I’ll come back in a month and do an update as to the progress.

You can purchase the duo on the Exuviance website for $77.00 – which is a $43 savings from purchasing it separately so I highly suggest that you purchase them together as a set.  Stay tuned for more information and update in the coming month once I have had more time to use the product.

For more information on the products mentioned, visit: http://www.neostrata.com/product/exuviance+illumination+duo.do

Signature Honey

This post is powered by Brandbacker.  Products were received for review.  All thoughts are 100% honest and unbiased.

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Exfolimate – Face and Body Exfoliation Tool Set

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Every time a new product comes out that claims to offer awesome results, I swear I think I have seen it all… but I was once again amused and interested in a new product that I have never seen before in the U.S. Market.  Exfolimate Face and Body Exfoliation Tool Set is a gentle exfoliation tool with micro-groove technology and is Australian designed.  At first glance, it looks like a tool I would use to clean my glass stove top, so I’ll honestly say that I shook my head at the thought that this product would even work.  Come on now, it looks like something a painter would use to scrape paint… there is no way this thing could possible exfoliate my skin and body.

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Exfolimate

 

Retailing for about $38 dollars US ($39.99 AU), this product claims that it is

“your own personal exfoliating mate, designed with innovative micro grooves and smooth edge technology to instantly glide along the skin with gentle fingertip control and pressure.  Use Exfolimate for perfect precision exfoliation and noticeable results.  By using your Exfolimate daily, you will naturally cleanse your pores and remove dulling surface debris to achieve naturally clearer skin that is smooth to the touch with a radiant glow.  Just add water.”

The Exfolimate comes in two sizes – one for your Face and one for your body.  It’s simple to use but at first glance, I’m not gonna lie… it looks a bit scary.  Using the products are easy… while showering or in a bath (your skin must be wet and supple), gently glide the Exfolimate with slight pressure at a 90-degree angle along the contours of your skin.  Cleaning is also simple in that you only need to run the stainless steel edge under warm running water to remove any remaining debris from under the skin smoothing edge and hang to dry using the chords that are included.

Exfolimate Body

I have been using the Body Exfolimate on areas that tend to get dry and have the most dead skin, like my knees, ankles and heels of my feet.  I also love to use this particular one on my elbows.  I use it all over my body and it’s easy to maneuver and use.  I’ve been using the Exfolimate Face for my entire face but especially places I know gets the driest skin like my nose.  It’s easy to use and definitely a great tool to have.

Exfolimate Face

When using this product, avoid excessive pressure and do not use on broken or infected skin.  Do not use for 7 to 10 days after laser or chemical peel treatments and do not use if your skin is not thoroughly wet.  I usually will wash my hair first before I use these tools to ensure that my skin is soft and supple before using.  Of course, you want to make sure to avoid the eye area at all times.  If irritation occurs, discontinue use of the product immediate and apply a suitable moisturizer or sunscreen if you’re going outside.  Do not clean with corrosive kitchen or bathroom cleaning products and do not boil or wash in dishwasher.  Simply rinse with warm water and hang up to dry.  Since the blade is made of stainless steel, it stored away nicely in my shower without rusting or any damage.  Use your finger tip control to press down on your Exfolimate lightly at 90 degrees to the skin and gently glide in a slow smooth motion in either direction.  Maximum of 4 to 6 glides, always ensuring the skin is wet and supple.  Towel dry the skin when done.  I have used this product before my shaving and it has made a huge difference in the closeness of my shave.  I have pretty much used this on all parts of my body and it has definitely made a difference in how my skin feels.

Exfolimate

So – what are my final thoughts on this product… Honestly, it is a little costly in my opinion, or it was before I first tried it.  While I’m still not sure I would pay the cost of it without knowing how it would work, I do think that this product is quite genius and has worked fairly well with my very sensitive skin.  After using the Exfolimate the first time, my skin was very dry after toweling off… and so I moisturized using my heavy body butter and moisturizer for my face.  I didn’t have any reactions to the products, no eczema flare ups and over all I do enjoy the experience.  I use this product each time I shower and have been doing so the last month.  It’s easier to clean than an exfoliating sponge or loofah and very easy to use.  I do however suggest, if you have sensitive or dry skin, test the product first on an area that is not as sensitive to see how your skin reacts.  My skin gets very dry after using the product, so I normally will do so only when I’m showering at night so I can use a heavy duty moisturizer to keep from my eczema flaring up.  If you have severely dry skin – I definitely suggest talking to your doctor prior to use.  I love that this product removes the dead skin on my body and face and leaves my skin soft (after moisturized of course).  It’s easy to use, easy to clean and easy to store.  Overall – I think the product itself is pretty cool and it doesn’t cause me any pain, which is definitely a plus considering how it looks. lol

Would you try something like this or have you seen something similar on the market? What are your thoughts?

Signature Honey

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

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