Majestic Pure Argan Oil Shampoo Review

If you've read much of my blog, you've probably figured out that I have color treated hair. I've used many different hair products over the years, and I've become very picky about what I use. I hate taking the time and spending the money to color my hair, only to have the color stripped off or faded from simply washing it. Thus, when I'm given a new shampoo to try I'm very cautious. A bottle of  Argan Oil Shampoo from Majestic Pure arrived in my mailbox two weeks ago, and I approached it with curiosity.

The product listing for Majestic Pure Argan Oil Shampoo lists the following benefits:

• Majestic Pure Argan Oil Shampoo contains 100% pure Moroccan Argan Oil of the Highest Quality and Purity; Gentle, Sulfate Free restorative vitamin enriched shampoo conditioner
• Exclusive blend of beneficial Oils and ingredients: Argan Oil, Avocado Oil, Jojoba Oil, Camellia Seed Oil, Botanical Keratin, and Almond Oil and Coconut oil
• Potent formula helps supply shine and a healthy look to hair with its abundance of Vitamin E, carotene and essential fatty acids; Almond Oil, rich in proteins, helps soothe dry and irritated areas on the scalp
• Majestic Pure Argan Oil Shampoo is a great hair restoration formula all hair types, including color treated hair, Safe for daily use, for men and women

 Would I have an epic shampooing experience?  My first thought, as I massaged my head with this shampoo, was that I love the scent! I was afraid with all the oils listed in the ingredients that this would leave my hair feeling oily or feeling coated with a greasy film, but it doesn't. For something with the name argan oil in it and containing all these oils, this shampoo cleans very well. It doesn't leave my hair feeling stripped and dry, instead it feels soft and clean. I wash my hair every other day, sometimes every third day, and this shampoo does a good job of cleansing. It seems to be gentle, but I do still need to use conditioner so I don't end up with frizzy hair. I'm keeping my eye on it, hoping it doesn't cause the color to fade, but so far it doesn't seem to conflict with color-treated hair.

This Argan Oil Shampoo is available on amazon.com. It includes a 60-day money back guarantee if you aren't completely satisfied.

*I received a bottle of the shampoo, which was mentioned above, at a discount in exchange for my honest review.

Biking with Conti Bike Tubes

The good weather has arrived! I’m so happy that the dreary and wet winter is disappearing. That means I can head out for some exercise. I’ve been wanting to bring out my bike, which I haven’t ridden in a long time. So, I was happy to get these new inner tubes for the tires. I got a two-pack of Conti Presta Valve Tubes by Continental.

They boast:

•     PREMIUM INNER TUBES - Preferred by champions and riders worldwide

•     MOLD CURED AND SEAMLESS EXTRUSION - Creates a consistent tube that is perfectly round

•     REMOVABLE VALVE CORES - Useful for adding extenders or using Revo Sealant.

I was surprised with how quickly they came. The tubes are made with quality construction and seem to be pretty durable. They are also easy to install, which is a necessity. They come in a bunch of different sizes.

I’ll be riding my bike like a boss…well, sort of, if I had some cool bike riding outfits. I’ll need to work on the clothes next.

I received the item, mentioned above, at a discount in exchange for my honest review.

Lip Smacker Liquid Sponge-On Lip Gloss Review

Sometimes I'm in the mood to wear lip gloss. The shine from lip gloss can make your lips look plumper, so I'll dab a bit over my lip color. A few days ago I got a tube of Lip Smacker Liquid Sponge-On Lip Gloss in the mail. 

I really liked the shine, which seems to be long-lasting as long (as you don't eat, drink or lick your lips). It was moisturizing and left my lips feeling softer and hydrated after the gloss was worn off.

The price on the listing for the particular vendor of this gloss was more than I would normally want to pay for a 0.09 fl. oz.; tube of what is normally an inexpensive brand, like Lip Smacker. Lip Smacker Liquid Sponge-On Lip Gloss is available on amazon.com. Note: if you follow the link to the listing I've mentioned, the listing says "birthday cake" flavor, and the actual flavor is "red velvet." The flavor difference didn't really matter to me, but I can see how some people may have an issue with it.




*disclaimer: I was given a free tube of the above mentioned lip gloss in return for my honest review.

Slimmin Suzie Detox Body Wraps Review

Since I’d always been curious about body wraps, I responded to an opportunity to try the new Slimmin’ Suzie Detox Body Wraps. This salon-style detox wrap is supposed to reduce cellulite, reduce stretch marks, and reduce inches. They are marketed as a cheaper, do-at-home alternative to expensive spa body wraps. So does this self-proclaimed “Stars and Models Favorite” perform?

Do Body Wraps Help You Lose Weight?

I’ve seen ads for body wraps that are supposed to help you lose weight and inches, and I’ve often wondered if they really work. The ingredients involved and the wrapping are supposed to detoxify your body and help you lose weight and/or inches of a particular area. I’ve always thought that these seem too good to be true. They seem rather expensive to try to only find out that it was just a gimmick.

So, as a skeptic I set out to research if there is any merit to these body wraps. Through a basic search of the internet about the topic body wraps to lose weight, I found a consensus that any result would be temporary water weight loss. According to the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC), “There’s nothing you can wear or apply to your skin that will cause you to lose weight permanently.”

Considering the psychological aspect, losing weight is challenging and depressing. If you are unhappy with your appearance, buying new clothes and getting dressed up to go out to special events can be discouraging. Having a special treatment that works a little, albeit temporarily, can provide a little boost that helps you feel better. It feels good to zip up your pants easily, rather than it sucking in and struggling!

About Slimmin’ Suzie

So back to the Slimmin’ Suzie wraps — each kit comes with eight packets of clay powder and two ACE-like bandages. The bandages are sturdy enough to last for several applications. Below is the product information:

“SLIMMIN' SUZIE HAS PROVEN VOLCANIC CLAY WITH SALON INGREDIENTS THAT WERE PREVIOUSLY ONLY AVAILABLE IN SALONS. Your Body is Full of Metabolic Waste that has accumulated from an Unhealthy Diet, Cosmetics and the Environment. Too Many Environmental Toxins the Body Starts to Create more Lymphatic Fluid Around your Cells in an Effort to dilute them. All this Extra Fluid makes you Puffy. The Volcanic Clay Breaks Down the Stored Lymphatic Fluids and Toxins and then are eliminated by the Body. It Pulls Interstitial Fluid (liquid between the Cells of the Body) and Melts Away Inches from Wrapped Body Parts. Specially Designed to Extract the Toxins from Between the Cells, then the Space between the Cells where the Fluids and Toxins were is compacted and Compressed by the Elastic Bandage, Contouring and Reshaping your Body.”

I doubled up on my first treatment, using two packets of the clay treatment, to cover my abdomen and my rear end. It is easy to use and apply, and the volcanic clay treatment smells good. To use: boil about two to three cups of water — you’ll need enough water to cover the wraps in a bowl. Put the bandages in the hot water to soak for 10-15 minutes. Empty a packet of the clay mix in a bowl and add just enough hot water to get a creamy consistency. Apply the mud to the areas that you’d like to target: stomach, thighs, rear end, or arms. Then squeeze out the bandages and wrap them around, securing them with the metal clasps. Make sure to squeeze the excess liquid out, or you can end up drippy. I didn’t squeeze very well, and I ended up a little messy.

Detox Clay Powder

Do They Work?

I got the Slimmin’ Suzie Body Wraps last week and was pleased with my results from the product.  My first application resulted in the loss of 2.5 pounds. I used my first treatment in the afternoon, after I’d already eaten breakfast and lunch. After applying the clay to my abdomen, hips, and rear end, I wrapped the area with the two bandage wraps. After an hour, I showered and weighed myself — I had actually lost 2.5 pounds during the past hour that I had been wearing the treatment. I was quite surprised!  I didn’t measure myself to see it there were inches lost, but I certainly felt less bloated. My skin also felt tighter and smoother. I also made sure to drink plenty of water to flush my system out.  At this point, I like where this is going. I see potential with using the other treatments that I have left in the box. The wrapped bandages can be covered with plastic wrap to keep the heat in. I didn’t do that, but I probably will on my next application because after a while, the heat wears off, and it does get rather chilly.

Bandage Wrap

Overall, I’m pleased with my results from the product. I think the key is having the understanding that the result is temporary, and this is not a permanent solution to keeping inches or weight off. These are much cheaper than going to a spa for a similar treatment. I must also say after what I went through sitting around half-dressed, for an hour with these bandages wrapped around me, that I would much rather be in the privacy of my home. I did the treatment while my kids were at school, and I had the house to myself.

Slimmin’ Suzie Body Wraps are available on amazon.com, and as of this writing, it is available at low introductory sale price. The company is easy to work with and has awesome customer service. 

I received a free Slimmin’ Suzie kit in return for my honest review.

Yoga Stretch Strap by FiveFourTen to Boost Your Workout

I’ve never been very flexible, even back in middle school I had a hard time reaching my toes when I stretched. But, I’ve recently gotten a great tool to help my muscles get the most benefit from stretching. The Yoga Stretch Strap from FiveFourTen is a great addition to my workout routine.

It is made out of 100% cotton, and is very durable. It is eight feet long and has steel “D” rings on the end that make it adjustable. It is also washable.

I had never tried a yoga strap, when I received this in the mail. At first, I doubted that it would do much. I tried it and was pleasantly surprised.  It is a great tool for relieving tension in my shoulders and between the shoulder blades. I have discovered that I love using this, since it adds a new dimension to my ability to stretch my muscles.

It’s January, and I am trying to start my year off by mixing things up a bit with my routine. One way is incorporating this new strap to get some deeper stretches and to improve my posture.
If you have no idea what to do with a yoga strap, I have posted links to a couple of videos below. I really like one for improving posture.

The FiveFourTen Yoga Stretch Strap is available for a good price (under $10) at amazon.com. It even comes with a one-year warranty.





*I received the yoga strap that was mentioned above for free, in exchange for my honest review.

Tie Clip Review

Okay, I admit that I personally don't wear a lot of ties. But, my son loves dressing up and looking sharp. He's mastered the art of tying neck ties by watching YouTube videos. I must say that I'm rather proud of him. Pervinco sent me one of their Premium Men's Tie Clips to review. Naturally, I gave the tie clip to my son.

He was thrilled! My son is eleven-years-old, so the tie clip is a little on the big side for him, but he likes in anyway. It's sturdy and keeps the tie in place. It is has a classy and stylish look to it. The best part is that looks great and is inexpensive. The Pervinco Premium Men's Tie Clip is sold on Amazon.com.

I received the tie clip that was mentioned above free of charge, through a Tomoson.com promotion, in return for my honest review. 

Advanced Moisturizer Cream by Anaiti Review

My latest experience trying a new facial moisturizer has been with Anaiti Advanced Moisturizing Cream. I have used a couple Anaiti’s other products and was very happy, so I was anxious to try this new product that I received.

About

Anaiti purports that this cream rejuvenates sagging, dehydrated skin and makes crow’s feet, age spots and discoloration less noticeable. The cream contains a unique combination of ingredients to protect skin from damage and promote smoother, younger looking skin. Its ingredients include:

• AQUAXYLTM, derived from natural sugars xylitol and glucose, provides an 'anti-dehydration shield' optimizing water circulation.

• SODIUM HYALURONATE gives skin volume and youthful fullness.

• SHEA BUTTER naturally soothes and moisturizes.

• SEA BUCKTHORN SEED EXTRACT contains high concentrations of naturally occurring anti-oxidants, protecting skin from damage.

My Experience

This cream feels soft and silky. It moisturizes and hydrates skin quite well. However, after using it the first time the foundation that I applied to my skin shortly after using the moisturizer got clumpy and looked awful. Thinking it was a fluke, I tried again the next day and still got an uneven texture applying my makeup. It could just be the combination of the brand of foundation that I used with this face cream does not mix well. Anyhow, I do think this moisturizer does a good job. It leaves my skin feeling smooth and hydrated, while being lightweight and non-greasy. I use it on days that I don’t plan to wear makeup and am pleased with the results.

Advanced Moisturizer Cream by Anaiti is available on amazon.com with a money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied.

I received a container of the moisturizing cream, mentioned above, free of charge in exchange for my honest review.

Parasheet Beach Blanket Review

I love the beach, picnics, and the outdoors. It never fails, however, that every time I go on an outing that I must lug stuff along like a pack mule. I like to do whatever I can to lighten the load. That is why I’m so fond of the lightweight Parasheet Beach Blanket by Gecko Active.

It measures seven feet by six feet, which is room for two people. It has snaps on the side for attaching another one for more room. The Gecko Active beach blanket is well made, with quality seams and well sewn. It isn’t cheaply slapped together.  It has accompanied me on many trips to the park and beach and has been holding up very well.

corner of the Parasheet blanket

I took it with me on a recent trip to the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Ocean on the west coast of Washington is always windy. It’s a great place to fly kites. There is also some awesome, smooth sand. It is a beautiful place to go. This beach blanket does need to be weighed down, especially when it is so windy. It does have pockets in the corners to fill with sand to weigh it down. It also has loops in the corners to place stakes to keep it down. One of the best things about this is the parachute nylon that easily shakes out the loose sand when you’re done and packing up. I also had a flannel picnic blanket with me that was not so easy to shake the sand out, and I ended up with sand being brought back to my car.

It comes with a handy storage bag and is compact for easy travel. It also makes a good gift for the outdoor enthusiast. It is sold on Amazon.com





*Disclaimer: I was given this item free, in return for my honest review.

Anaiti Advanced Eye Gel Review

My under eye area is a problem, and it has been since I was in my teens. I’ve fought dark circles and puffiness for a long time, and I’ve used many products that claim the ability to fix them. So far, I haven’t found a miracle cure. There are so many causes for dark under eye circles and puffiness, like allergies or genetics. I’m always game to try a new eye product, to see what happens. Even if I get a small improvement, I’ll be happy. Most recently, I’ve been using Anaiti Advanced Eye Gel. 

It is supposed to help combat fine lines, wrinkles, eye bags, crow’s feet, dry skin, dark circles, and puffiness.

I tried using it both in the morning and at bedtime. I recommend using it at night to help eyes look more refreshed in the morning. I found that using it during the day didn’t work out very well for me. It did not absorb very well and prevented my makeup from blending in. I do use under eye concealer, due to having a dark under eye area, and with applying the eye gel several minutes before my makeup I ended up with my makeup looking heavy and clumpy. I have gotten compliments recently that I look well rested, so the subtle difference that I saw must be noticeable.

As Anaiti’s other products, the Advanced Eye Gel is cruelty-free and paraben-free. It is available on amazon.com, and has a money back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied.


I received a free 0.5 fl. oz. bottle of eye gel in return for my honest review, through a Tomoson.com promotion.

Luminous C Serum by Anaiti Review

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been using some products from Anaiti skin care. Anaiti combines state-of-the-art technology and the latest research to formulate effective skin care products. I’ve been using Luminous C Serum by Anaiti for four weeks.

 Anaiti Luminous Serum incorporates Matrixyl, Renovage, stabilized vitamin C, and niacinamide to help skin be more youthful and luminous looking. It refreshes a dull complexion. It comes in a 1 fl. oz. size, which will last me several weeks, since I only need one pump at a time.

It absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feel smooth and soft. I use it at bedtime and wake up with skin that looks brighter. My skin feels good — it feels firmer, has improved texture, and seems brighter.

Luminous C Serum by Anaiti is available on amazon.com.






Through a Tomoson.com promotion, I received a free 1 fl. oz. bottle of this serum for free in return for my honest reveiw.

Review of Advanced Age-Defying Face Cream by Anaiti

I’ve mentioned before that I love a great face cream. I’m always on the lookout for facial moisturizers that are full of ingredients that decrease fine lines and that help restore skin elasticity. A few weeks ago I discovered the skin care brand Anaiti. Their tag line is “Age-defying Skin Care for Celebrity Skin.” Being curious about “celebrity skin,” I was pretty psyched to get some of their products to review. I’ve been using the Advanced Age-Defying Face Cream by Anaiti for the past four weeks.

Anaiti Advanced Age-defying Face Cream boasts hyaluronic acid, Matrixyl, and Renovage. It is supposed to be good for both dry and oily skin. It helps to balance moisture, decrease pore size, increase firmness.

What I like about it is that it absorbs quickly and isn’t greasy. After using it for four weeks, I’ve noticed better firmness and elasticity. My skin’s texture feels good, and I like the way my skin feels. It is a subtle difference, but it is enough of an improvement that my skin feels good.

It’s great for using in the morning, since it isn’t oily and can be used under makeup without causing my makeup to get cakey or to become greasy and disappear.

It is pricey, when compared to the usually face creams that I buy. It is an effective moisturizer and lives up to my expectations. Another plus — it is cruelty-free and paraben-free.

Advanced Age-defying Face Cream by Anaiti is available on amazon.com, and it comes with a one hundred percent satisfaction guarantee.

I received a free jar of this face cream, through a Tomoson.com promotion, to try in return for my honest review.

Beardsmen Spirit Beard Oil and Mustache Wax Review

Okay, so I don’t have a mustache…well, at least not enough of one to need mustache wax…maybe another type of waxing, but that’s for another blog post. My husband is into facial hair — a fact that caused some contention during the early part of our relationship because I was not a fan of scratchy facial hair. My husband has sported a mustache for most of his adulthood. I recently was given the generous opportunity to review a couple of products from Beardsmen Spirit: Beard Oil and Mustache Wax. They are both awesome, high quality and 100% natural products.

Beardsmen Spirit Beard Oil

This is designed to be soothing and to keep your beard from itching. It is conditioning and easy to use. Just get a couple of drops of the beard oil in your hands and rub them together, then massage on your beard and skin under your chin and cheeks.

The ingredients are jojoba oil, almond oil, grape seed oil, castor oil, and essential oils for giving the beard oil its scent. The scent is that of eucalyptus, cedar, and pine. In my opinion, the eucalyptus stands out, more than the woodsy smell. Overall, it does smell good. The smell is not overpowering, and it does dissipate.

It comes in four ounce bottles, and since only a small amount is needed at a time, the bottle will last a while making this a great value.

  Beardsmen Spirit Mustache Wax

 Beardsmen Spirit Mustache Wax comes in a two-ounce metal tin. To use the wax, you scrape off a tiny amount with your fingernail, rub it between your fingers to soften it, and then smooth it on your mustache and style.  It gives great hold and conditions your mustache.
It is made with natural ingredients: beeswax, lanolin, jojoba oil, eucalyptus oil, cedarwood oil, and pine needle oil. It has a great scent that is subtle and woodsy.

Whenever I think of a styled mustache, I get a picture of Rand Fishkin, SEO expert, in my mind. Beardsmen Spirit Mustache Wax can help you get an awesome handlebar mustache or just keep your hair tidy and in place.

This mustache wax works quite well, providing great control and conditioning. It has a good scent that isn't overbearing. This wax is easy to use. Only a tiny amount is needed so this two-ounce tin will last a while. Overall, my husband was pleased with this product.

Both products can be purchased through Amazon.com.



*I received the two products that were mentioned above, free, in exchange for my honest review.

Maxasorb B12 Cream Review

I’m a huge fan of B vitamins, especially B12. Vitamin B12 has so many benefits. I’ve battled fatigue for a long time. Consequently, I’ve taken several supplements, and B vitamins are among my favorites for boosting my energy. B12 is also good for cardiovascular health and nerve health.  I have a pile of supplements that I take each day. However, who wants another pill to take? I’ve often thought topical vitamins that absorb through the skin are a great idea and have been wanting to try some. Luckily, I was able to obtain some for review purposes from Vita Sciences through a Tomoson.com promotion.

Maxasorb B12 from Vita Sciences delivers 320 mcg. of the methylcobalamin form of B12, 120 mcg. of Niacin, and 10 mcg. of folate in each dose. The directions for those 12 and over are to rub two pumps onto skin once per day. Two pumps is a 320 mcg. dose, and one 1.7 fl. oz. bottle contains 30 doses.  It is not intended for use on children under 12 without consulting a physician first. So, treat this like medicine and keep it up, if you have young children, lest they think it’s like any other lotion.

At first, I wondered what it would smell like. Would it smell like vitamins? I’m pleased to say that it smells great. It smells like peppermint. I can see so many benefits, especially for individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills. Some vitamins aren’t very appetizing with their characteristic vitamin smell and taste. By using a cream, there is one less pill to worry about. Maxabsorb B12 cream is also a great moisturizer. The cream is gentle and soothes dry, itchy skin. It absorbs quickly, and after a month of use it seems to be effective.

Vita Sciences has some other products that look promising: Vitamin D3 Cream, Melatonin Cream, and pain relief cream. Vita Sciences Maxasorb B12 is available on Amazon.com and at www.vitasciences.com. If you order now from vitasciences.com with this one time use code save15, you can save 15%.




*The product mentioned above was received free of charge, in exchange for an honest review.

GoPure Naturals Argan Oil Review

I'm growing my hair out, and the longer my hair gets the more the ends of my hair need TLC. The dry, thirsty ends of my hair love argan oil. goPure Naturals Argan Oil is a treat that my hair really likes.

goPure Naturals Argan Oil is 100% natural with no additives. It is made with high-quality, organic argan oil. I find it works well to eliminate frizz and moisturize my hair. I use it only on the ends of my hair, and only a bout two or three drops at a time. Argan oil can be used on the body, hair, and for moisturizing nails. I've mostly used it on my hair and am quite pleased. This is quickly on its way to becoming a staple in my hair care routine.

goPURE Organic Argan Oil Benefits for Hair:
    • Reduces Frizz and Works ans Anti-Frizz While Detangling Waves and Curls
    • Deeply Nourishes and Hydrates Dry Scalp - Helping to Reduce Dryness and Flakiness
    • 100% Natural, Paraben Free, No added Fragrance or Color
    • Naturally Removes Split Ends and Leaves Hair Silky Soft
    •Dramatically Improves Color Treated or Damaged Hair - Leaving it Silky Soft, Manageable and Beautiful!

goPure Argan Oil comes in a 4 oz. bottle and is available on amazon.com. Check out goPure Natural's Facebook page.


I received a free product in exchange for my honest review, via a promotion from Tomoson.com.

GoPure Naturals Peppermint Essential Oil Review

I love the smell of peppermint oil. It is invigorating and lifts my mood. I started using peppermint oil a few years ago combined with lavender oil, when I discovered the MigraStick. Peppermint oil is great mixed with shea butter or coconut oil for a nice-smelling body moisturizer. I've been using goPure Naturals Peppermint Essential Oil, and it is very useful.

The menthol in peppermint oil has a cooling and anti-inflammatory effect. I recently came across an article that touted the performance enhancing quality of peppermint. The smell of peppermint has been shown to lessen feeling of exertion and  improve mood.

goPure Naturals Peppermint Oil is 100% natural and cold pressed.There are no added ingredients. It has a variety of uses, which makes the larger size bottle that it comes in great! So many essential oils normally come in a little bottle, and they are costly. This four ounce size is very economical. Only a tiny bit is needed at a time, so this bottle should last a long time. It's also great smelling! Below is an excerpt from the product information.

• Peppermint oil is one of the world’s most commonly used essential oils, with a history that dates back as far as 3,000 years. It offers a pleasant, uplifting scent that has been used to treat a variety of physical and mental ailments, from bad breath to depression. Modern research proves that it stimulates several regions of the brain, giving it the power to have a profound impact on the entire body.
• With a high concentration of essential minerals like magnesium, potassium and calcium, it is a highly effective treatment for digestive disorders. Administering peppermint oil is easy; simply place a couple drops in a glass of water, and then drink.
• Peppermint oil has been proven to have a positive effect on the respiratory system. Whether it is used as a chest rub or is inhaled through a vaporizer, it quickly clears the respiratory tract and provides fast relief from bronchitis, sinusitis and cold-related symptoms.
• Pure peppermint oil can be used topically to relieve muscle pain, headaches or to simply give skin a vibrant, healthy glow. Its healing properties have been recognized for centuries, and it has been a staple in many medicine cabinets for generations.

 goPure Naturals Peppermint Oil is available on amazon.com at a very reasonable price. Also check out their Facebook page.


I received a free product in exchange for my honest review, through a promotion by Tomoson.com.