Soosul Skin Review

Hey everyone! I hope you all have been doing great! It’s been awhile and I’m sorry. It’s been really hectic in my part of the woods. However, I’m back!

I wanted to come on here and do a mini review on the Soosul Skin that was sent to me. Here’s a little snippet about the company!

Soosul Skin is a cruelty-free, natural, organic and luxury brand made in South Korea created in 2002. We’ve heard about all the hype about mushrooms in coffee and foods right? Well Soosul’s main ingredient in their products is Sang Hwang (Phellinus Linteus) mushroom and is one of the very first mushrooms that Korea has been certified to be used for medicine. This Phellinus Linteus mushroom has outstanding anti-aging and antioxidants. Soosul Skin created products for men and women to help with hyperpigmentation, dehydrated skin, wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots.

Purifying Foam Cleanser

This is a cream to foam cleanser. There’s about 0.5% of SangHwang mushroom extract that’s packed with antioxidants to cleanse and purifies the skin. The scent is very light, it has a very light grapefruit and green tea scent. It isn’t overbearing at all. It indeed is a cream base and I did notice there was a very small amount of grit to the cleanser almost like a scrub which I personally like. The skin type recommended for this product would be for everyone really: normal, oily, combination and dry. I myself can be a bit dry in the winter so the fact that this cleanser turns to foam, is a dry skin’s dream. This product would help with acne, blemishes, oiliness and pores. Honestly sometimes, when I just use the cleanser, my face really does look lighter.

Collagen Boosting Essence Serum

This essence serum is a powerful treatment used after cleaning your face. It contains 10% of the SangHWang mushroom which deeply penetrates into the skin to improve the skin’s natural barrier function and has moisture-holding capacity. The scent again is not very strong, it has a light fragrance. This serum helps with dullness of the skin, uneven texture, dark spots and pores. It also helps with all of the skin types. I love to use this in the morning after cleansing and toner and at night before bed, it gives a supple look and really does make your skin soft and hydrated.

Hydrogel Essential Sheet Mask

I haven’t really seen a mask like this. It actually has 2 parts! The top part of your face (until the nose) and the bottom part which covers under the nose. The scent is a little strong but it’s doable. This mask contains 25mg which gives your skin radiance, hydration, smoothness and plumpness in 10 minutes. You could even leave the mask on up to 30 minutes! A little trick I use is after applying the mask, I like to go over it with a jade roller so the mask can really take more effect. This mask works for all skin types and will help with fine lines, wrinkles, dryness and uneven texture.

They also sent me a few samples: Ginseng Cream with 15% consistency and the Revitalizing Eye Cream infused with 10%.

I always love trying new brands and this one was amazing to try! I would love to eventually love to try out the Neck Firming Cream because lets face it, not everyone pays attention to the neck as we age unfortunately. Take a look at their website, you can’t go wrong. They even have a FREE skin quiz to see which products would benefit you and your skincare needs. If you like what you see and want to try it out, please feel free to use my discount code for 10% off. CHRISTINA10

Have you tried or heard any new skincare that includes mushrooms? I would love to know!

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PB&J French Toast with Vital Proteins Collagen

Hello my loves and happy Wednesday!

I hope you all are having a great week so far!

It’s been a long while since I posted a recipe let alone never blogged about collagen.

I first was introduced to Vital Proteins a few years back at the Expo West in Anaheim, California as well as another blogger by the name of The Skinny Confidential (hi Lauren!)

Vital Proteins has so many different products on their website which includes collagen water, collagen mini powders, collagen creamers, immunity boosters, collagen lattes, collagen bars, matcha powders and even workout powders.

Benefits of Collagen: 

Did you know collagen helps strengthen nails, hair, skin, bones and joints and as we get older, our bodies are not able to synthesize collagen on their own and a lot of our food intake doesn’t include collagen.**

How to Use:

Simply put into your waters, coffees, beverages and food recipes. The best thing is that this specific kind has no scent and can easily dissolve into water.

My PB&J French Toast Recipe:

* 4 slices of bread

* 1 scoop of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

* 1 egg

* 1/4 cup of milk

* pinch of salt

* cinnamon

* 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee

Spread peanut butter and jelly on the bread as if you were making a sandwich.

Whisk egg, milk, salt, cinnamon and collagen powder.

Gently place the sandwich into the egg mix and make sure you get both sides saturated.

Place 1 tablespoon of butter on the pan and wait for it to sizzle.

Using your spatula, place the sandwich in the pan and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes then turn over and wait a few minutes again.

With the other 1 tablespoon of butter, again place the butter in the pan for the next batch of french toast.

When it’s all said and done, sprinkle powdered sugar and some maple syrup on top.

Bon Appetite!

****These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Summer 2020 FabFitFun Box

Hello Loves!

I’m finally back after a long absence, it’s been a strange year and a half as of late! But I’m back for good!

I’m back with a well needed new Summer 2020  FabFitFun box and these always excite me since I’ve upgraded to an annual subscription with more goodies in store!

dr. Brandt Do Not Age Triple Peptide Eye Cream $82 – 0.5 oz/15 g

Now that I’m in my 30’s, I have to start paying attention to my eye wrinkles, am I right? This could not come at the perfect time!

What is it? A lightweight hydrating eye cream that helps reduce and get rid of wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness around the eyes.  For all skin types

Ingredients? Triple Peptide Complex-Palmitoyl oligopeptides, argireline and Vitamin C polypeptides which smooths the look of skin, reducing the appearance of deep lines and dark circles. Phospholipids, Ceramide 3, and shea butter helps strengthen skin, and replenish moisture levels. Caffeine, which helps to reduce puffiness and look of dark circles.

A Tip: Use it am and pm.

HydroPeptide Moisture Reset Face Oil $120 – 1 fl oz/30 mL

I’ve been getting more interested in using more face oils so again this was a perfect product to choose!

What is it: This is an antioxidant-rich blend of a dozen precious oils to look in moisture and helps the skin from environmental stressors (i.e. pollution) and free radicals.

Ingredients: flower extracts and avocado, pumpkin oils and rice bran extract

I’ve only used it a few times now but so far, I am loving it! It doesn’t give you a greasy oily feeling as it lounging on your skin. As for the scent, it’s a very light floral scent, it’s not very noticeable IMO.

How to Use: Dispense 3-5 drops in your hand. Using gentle sweeping and patting motions to apply to your face, neck. You could even use a few drops with your moisturizer, serums or even body lotions for an extra boost of moisture.

Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizing Cream $65 – 1.7 fl oz/ 50 mL

I’ve been in search of a new moisturizing cream since we all have been wearing masks due to COVID 19.

What is it? A daily moisturizer to deliver hydration and help repair the skin’s natural lipid barrier. This is a gentle formula that instantly absorbs to create a beautiful and healthy glow.

Ingredients: Jojoba and avocado to help hydrate and condition. Aloe to naturally sooth and help calm skin. Grapeseed Oil and Vitamin and natural antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals.

I love this moisturizer as it has a very light consistency. It’s not too greasy at all and it really does remind me of a thicker type of milk.

Silked Satin Pillow Sleeve $29.50

In my opinion, you can never have too many pillow sheets, especially this one! I have heard that silk pillow sheets really do help with us frizzy hair girls.

What is it? It’s an open ended design that fits most standard, queen king pillows. 100% Poly Satin Charmeuse front while the back is 95% Rayon 5% Spandex that is non slip. It is a perfect traveling essential for covering those pesky hotel pillows. It prevents beadhead, hair breakage, dry and frizzy hair, prevents skin creases, fine lines and skin irritations.

WINKY LUX Uni-Brow Universal Eyebrow Pencil $16

A Univeral brow pencil that works with both light eyebrows and darker eyebrows. Who would have thunk it!! I had my doubts until I tried it on my eyebrows (I have dark brows) and I also tried it on my mom (she has light sparse brows) Well I can tell you, I’m a firm believer on this one!

What is it? A cool toned eyebrow pencil that works for most brow shades. The firm texture allows for maximum control, creating a universally flattering eye look everytime!

Pro Tips: *Increase your application pressure for darker toned brows. *Apply softer pressure for light-colored brows. *

Cali Cosmetics Foot Cream with Menthol in Tarocco $24 – 2.5 fl oz / 75 mL

We are slowly entering summer territory, so it’s a no brainer that we got a foot cream in our Fab Fit Fun Summer box.

*Fun Fact: Tarocco is actually a Sicilian Blood Orange*

Simply apply on to feet and massage from your heels to your toes. Use twice daily.

Spongelle Coconut Verbena Hand Cream $18

Another thing that you can never have too many of is of course hand creams. I probably have one hand cream in every purse I have!

This hand cream screams summer vibes to me! It’s infused with Spongelle’s signature scents and patented Salsphere ingredients, this hand cream will help sooth, nourish and hydrate your hands and cuticles. Especially after using hand sanitizer all the time!

Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (women’s best friend), shea butter, argan and macadamia seed oils.

The Lyfestle Co. Beach Mist $42 – 4oz / 125 mL

Again, another great summer skincare product! As we all know, we need to always refresh and make sure our skin is hydrated especially in these summer months, this is where The Lyfestle Co. Beach Mist comes into play.

What is it? Soothing aloe combines with a cooling combination of mint and lavender which helps moisture and hydrate the sun drenched skin.

Pro Tip: Store it in the refrigerator for extra cooling effect!

The next 2 products were actually from the Add-Ons event. The Add-Ons event is where you can also purchase other products from the Fab Fit Fun store.

type: A Deodorant with Sweat Activated Technology in The Achiever Ocean Mint

I’m in the process of getting rid of all of my other aeresol deodorants since it’s bad for us ultimately. This is aluminum free! I first heard about this brand was a few years ago at an event. So when I saw this I just had to order it. The best part is the scent! It reminds me of the beach with a hint of mint. Okay okay, it’s not a hint of mint, it’s a bit stronger than just a hint! LOL

 Ouai Leave In Conditioner 

The very first time I heard about this and/or even tried it out was from my very first FabFitFun box that I signed up for. I’ve had it for about 2 years now, I still haven’t even hit pan yet. However, I knew I needed to reorder this just just in case I can’t get my hands on it again and for the price as well! At Sephora it’s $26 while I ordered mine for $7!

There’s something I just love about it! The scent, the formula of the leave in conditioner, how it just oomphs my curly hair.

 

 

 

Recent Beauty Haul

Happy first day of summer loves!!

I don’t know how the weather is over where you guys are but, it’s only 11am here in LA and already the sun is blaring down at us!

To kick off the summer spirit, I’ve got 2 honorable mentions of my beauty purchases that I’ve been loving lately!

I’ve been on the hunt for L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise mascara and had the hardest time finding it. I went to Target and found out they sold out within the second day! Then went to Ulta and it still wasn’t delivered to them so last idea I had was to order it online. I did find it online on Amazon but it shouldn’t ship until another 2 weeks!

I plan to try it out for a few weeks and will post a review on my blog, so I won’t talk more about this till then!

As I was at Ulta looking for my mascara, I came across the Biore Pore Penetrating Charcoal Bar. I feel like this is a great dupe for the Lush Coalface for half the price. It’s even got a peppermint scent to it. So it feels great after a long day while your face is feeling refreshed.

 

3 Simple Secrets to Looking Younger and Having Great Skin as You Age

Happy Wednesday loves!

I’m excited to announce that for the first time ever, I’m having a guest blogger!

No one wants to look old before their time. While we will all age, and there is no escaping it, there are some easy ways you can remain youthful looking. Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and you should look after it.

I am in my early 50s. I became a grandparent at 47 years of age. That’s pretty young, I’m sure you’ll agree. I don’t look my age, and I haven’t for many years. Now, I don’t have a ‘baby-face’ or any other ‘trick’ that keeps me looking young.
I live in a very sunny part of the world. I grew up playing outside before sunscreens were invented. My skin is olive, and I have freckles. And despite these things, people are always surprised to discover how old I am. They are even more surprised when they learn I have grandchildren.
People remark that I am very lucky, and that I must have good ‘genes’ to look so young. Well, I believe that you make your own luck, and regardless of your genetic disposition, you can slow the aging process easily and cheaply.
All those years ago, beauty products weren’t as sophisticated as they are today. I was limited with what I could do. So, here are the 3 things I have been doing for the past 35 years which helps keep my complexion radiant and fighting the aging process.
1. Exfoliate
Scrub your skin long and hard. It sounds harsh, but it works.
Don’t be gentle with your skin, especially your face and around your neck. These two areas will show how old you are sooner than anywhere else. I use a strong brush to exfoliate twice a day. I have one in the shower and one on the bathroom sink. And, I scrub those dead skin cells away until my skin shines.
2. Moisturize
Depending upon where you live, and how much exercise you get I would recommend you moisturize at least twice a day. If you live in a heavily polluted area or you are in the sun a lot, then do it more often.
What kind of moisturizer you use will depend on your budget, but to be honest you don’t need an expensive brand to get great results. I have never paid a lot of money for moisturizer. Instead, I buy ones which are thick and have a good sorbolene base.
Avoid moisturizers which are thin and look glossy. You need to protect your skin for hours at a time, so choose one which is thick and needs rubbing in.
3. Live well
Now, I know I’m going to sound like your mother, but it’s true. Alcohol, smoking and a poor diet play havoc on your skin. And, the older you get the longer it takes for your skin to repair itself, trust me!
I’m not saying you have to be saint, but limit these things as much as you can.
You need to eat a balanced diet and drink a lot of water. If you skin and hair are prone to drying out, eat more fish. I have a small can of tuna each day. It gives my body all the essential omega vitamins to help my skin shine.
It’s never too late to start taking good care of your skin. It shouldn’t cost you a lot of money either. Create a routine where you exfoliate and moisturize when needed. Also, be mindful of what you put in your mouth. Your skin will reveal those bad habits to the world if you let it.
Instead, nurture your skin to help you hide your age, and keep people guessing.

 

About My Guest – Susan Day
Susan Day is an author of 15 books, educator, and a content marketer. Her blog, Astro’s Adventures Book Club, is full of ideas and tips for grandparents who want to build a strong relationship with their grandchildren. In particular, Susan specializes in helping grandparents share their love of books with their grandchildren. Susan is currently writing a book titled, The Top 10 Things Happy Grandparents Never Regret Doing!
Susan lives in country Australia with four dogs, three boss cats, three rescue guinea pigs, and an errant kangaroo. And, apart from blogging, writing and reading; she loves drinking coffee, painting and learning to box.

Oz Naturals SPF 30 Tinted Moisturizer Review


Happy Wednesday loves. Hope you’re all enjoying your week!

I was lucky enough to be chosen to review the Oz Naturals 30 SPF Broad Spectrum Tinted Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide. Luck was on my side, since I’ve been actually looking for something like a body lotion but with sunscreen. 😀

oz naturals

The Claims:

A medium tint, moisturizing sunscreen lotion that absorbs quickly and provides effective broad spectrum protection from both UVA and UBA rays.

Directions: Apply to all skin exposed to the sun. Make sure you apply liberally and evenly 15 minutes before any sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hour.

My Review:

I like using it as a simple SPF cream. Most of the time I’ve been using this, it’s combined with a body butter. It has a light fragrance to it which I love. Another reason why I like this is because I like the light tint to this moisturizer/SPF. I would definitely buy this next time, especially in this crazy California weather

ozz.

*Sponsored by Brandbacker*

 

May 2015 Birchbox Review

Happy Saturday loves!

I’m finally back from my long hiatus and hope you’re all doing great! So sorry about my recent disappearance, work was a bit on the hectic side!

birchbox

I was lucky enough to find a promo code for BirchBox from GlamLifeGuru who is a Youtuber that I’ve been following since forever! I only paid $1 to try out BirchBox. ( I always wanted to try it out, but of course my funds had other things to do and be)

This month’s theme is from Cupcakes and Cashmere (a fellow beauty blogger as well). She picked out 5 of her favorite products.

bb opened

Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator

This is an exfoliating cleanser enriched with papaya, micro-crystals and aloe. It’s Paraben free, sulfate free and 99% natural! I’ve already tried this a few times and I may be in love with this cleanser! I use this before applying my foundation and I’ve found it to be very effective. It really does give you a smooth plate for your foundation. The Texture: it feels like a light cleanser with a little bit of exfoliating crystals that lathers up with water.

vasanti

N.4 Lumiered-hiver Super Comb Prep & Protect

This is a leave-in conditioner that instantly detangles hair and provides color protection as well as an extra dose of UV protection. I haven’t used this yet to be honest but looking forward to trying this! I like the idea of a hair product that protects against UV rays.

hair spray

MARCELLE Hydra-C 24H Energizing Hydrating Gel

I use this after washing my face but before I apply my foundation. Some times I’ll just use this as a moisturizer without any makeup! It works both ways. I do feel that my skin does get hydrated while using this which is great, considering that it’s already summer and humid. FYI: there’s no scent to this, perfect for people who are sensitive to smell.

hydrating gel

Notting Hill Femme English Laundry

A mini perfume sample by Christopher Wicks. It’s actually a bit hard to explain the scent but something like a musky floral. I definitely love the scent though, I’m going to wear it for special occasions.

perfume

Coastal Scents Reveal 3D Palette Sampler “Desert Bloom”

This is the first time getting a BirchBox sample let alone an eyeshadow palette sample. I had no idea what to expect! It’s a cute 4 sample set: matte light brown, a shimmery gold, a rose gold, and a pinky metallic purple.

shadow

 

Rating: 4 out of 5

Do you subscribe to Birchbox? What did you get in your box?

ISSE 2015 Sample Haul

Hi loves!

A few weeks ago, I went to the International Salon and Spa Expo at the Long Beach Convention Center. It’s a 3 day event where licensed makeup artists, cosmotologists, estheticians and pretty much any one in the personal wellness industry. Estheticians usually aim to go on Sunday and Monday because there’s actually more skincare booths and classes. For the past 2 years now, I’ve been going to the Saturday show mainly because it’s the cheapest day. (Bad I know!)

I went for the first time last year and was there about 3 hours in advance. (You can blame it on misreading the schedule and being sick). I pretty much walked in there and felt so overwhelmed! Just imagine a convention center filled with every type of beauty product booth! Anyways, this year I was prepared and being more social and talkative, I scored so much samples!

Color Club Wicked Sweet Nail Polish and Gold Glitter

There was a post on Instagram where if you reposted a photo and go to a specific booth and I’d get some free stuff

I was given the Color Club Wicked Sweet Nail Polish that is actually scented polish along with 2 mini containers of gold flecks used for nail art.

color club polishes                                                   Get Your Lem-On, Yum Gum, Raspberry Rush, Wicked Sweet
www.colorclub.com

Fountain of Uth (FOU) Revitalizing Skin Moisturizer

It hydrates your skin naturally. It’s made with a mix of oxygen  and elements of copper, gold, silver and zinc.

fountain of uth

 

www.fouwater.com

Corrective Skincare Acne Set

*Tea Tree Scrub

*Lime Aid Medicated Moisturizer

*Glycolic 4% with Salicylic Acid

corrective skincare

 www.correctiveskin.com

Omiera Beauty Set

I love the packaging! It looks elegant and sophisticated. Here’s what is included:

Adroit: Heals Folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles) and Breakouts

Glocione: Epidermal Hyaluronic Filler Whitening System

Illumizone: Blanchiment Serum

Acdue: Acne Scar Regimen

Exalt: Natural Treatment for Hair Loss

Revimour: GLA Lash Solution

omiera set

www.omieralabs.com

Agadir Argan Oil Samples

*Sulfate Free with Keratin Protein Moisture Mask: anti-color fade for long lasting, hair color

*Styling Curl Creme: leave-in and anti-frizz

*Daily Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner

*Daily Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner

*Hair Shield 450 Intense Cream Treatment

agadir samples

www.agadirint.com

4 Naturals 

*Curly Wave Serum 2 Wavy-Curly: defines curls, tames frizz without buildup, moisturizes and adds shine

*Afro Stretch Curl Cream 4 Kinky-Coily: defines curls, helps eliminate shrinkage, moisturizes and revives shine

*Curl Craze 3 Curly-Kinky: defines curls, defines perfect ringlets, moisturizers and adds shine

       ** there’s no petroleum, mineral oil or silicone, no harsh alcohols, paraben and dye free**

natural curls samples

www.4naturals.com

French Samples

One of the booths were of a French company and because I had purchased something from the vendor, she gave me extra samples!

Ecrinal ANP Shampooing for Women

Ecrinal ANP Shampooing for Men

Ecrinal ANP Hair Mash-for dry and damaged hair

Akileine Heavy Legs Gel

Cicaleine Balm for Cracked and chapped feet and hands

Akildia Multi-Protective Cream

Coup  Declat Intense Plumping Treatment Wrinkle Filler

Coup Declat Nutri-Oxygenating Cream

Coup Declat Lifting Ampoules

french samples

That’s it! That’s my ISSE 2015 Sample Haul. Next time, I’ll be posting my purchases haul at the ISSE 2015. (better known as ISSE 2015 part 2! I still cant believe that these were all samples!