Review of LIPZU- Created by 12 year old entrepreneur, Daisy.

Budding beauty guru Daisy Creel is proof that you're never too small to think big. She joined her love of animals with an entrepreneurial spirit to develop LIPZU, a line of organic lip balms that gives a portion of its proceeds to the Humane Society. "We got all of our pets - two cats, a dog and a bird - from the Human Society," says Daisy.  "Someone saved and cared for them before they came to live with us, so I want to return the favor."

My Thoughts:

I adore the stories of young entrepreneurs striving to make a difference. When I heard about Daisy Creel and her passion for animals as well as giving back to the Humane Society, I knew I wanted to give LIPZU a try. Each lip balm had an adorable case that displayed an animated animal on the front. I was sent the lip balms: Figaro (cat), Gilbert (penguin), Huckleberry (dog), and Wish (panda). The flavors were Mango, Cherry, Strawberry, and Cucumber. 

I was impressed by how delicious the scents were. The product was silky smooth and easy to apply. I could feel the lip balm soaking in quickly upon application and leaving a softer feeling. My lips felt wonderful afterwards and there was no after taste or a need to keep reapplying many times. I put more on maybe three times a day depending on how my lips were feeling. I noticed an increase in hydration by the next day. My brother also tried these with me and he felt the same way. He gets horribly chapped lips that are prone to cracking, and he loved LIPZU. He didn't feel any burning, pain or stinging like other lip balms have given him. There is a lot of product in each pod, so these will last a long time. The animals on the front did wear off over time, but the product itself worked just as well. It was also great that they were organic! 

Here is the ingrediant list: Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Beeswax (Cire D’abeille), Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Natural Flavor, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf/Stem Extract, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, and Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Fruit.  

Each lip balm is Gluten-free, Paraben-free, Petrolatum-free, Phthalate-free, 95% organic, 100% natural, and there is no animal testing. 

If you are looking for a wonderful product that supports giving back, I would highly recommend giving LIPZU a try! Each lip balm retails for only $6 each and shipping is always free. I'm wishing Daisy a wonderful time on her future career endeavors, and thank you to LIPZU for allowing me to give these awesome products a try! 

Connect with LIPZU:

Website  Facebook    

Pucker Up! Here's the Ultimate Care Product for Your Pout!

Exposing lips to the harsh winter weather may leave lips chapped, cracked and dry. Tending to lips requires more than just a fruity flavored balm or protectant to soothe the skin. Check out the new AllGlamR’s Lip Servis, a natural moisturizing lip treatment that holds the key to a mouth of full, soft, and healthy looking lips

Lips are constantly in use and openly exposed to winter’s harsh environment so they are more subject to dehydration and aging. Lip Servis reduces fine lines and surface folds creating naturally fuller, more defined lips naturally while repairing signs of skin damage due to wind, cold and sun exposure. Lip Servis is jammed full of Hyaluronic Acid, a natural humectant that draws moisture from the surrounding air to the lips reinforcing the connective tissue, keeping skin soft, supple and plump while improving elasticity.

Lip Servis's lip-loving formulation works by providing long lasting moisture and stimulating the molecular structure of lips’ thin skin membranes. Collagen and hyaluronic acid play an integral role in shaping, filling and defining the appearance of lips. Lip Servis’s complex blend of safe, irritant-free ingredients directly stimulate collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis while restoring optimal moisturization when worn alone or under pigmented lip products.

"If your lips are very dry and cracked, avoid licking your lips and don't bite the skin on the surface of your lips as the skin will never have a chance to heal. Massage lips in the morning with a moisture delivering treatment like Lip Servis and at night before you go to bed”, says Gina Caruso the esthetician who developed the AllGlamR skincare collection.

"This can help boost your lips’ natural ability for repair while you sleep."

Lip Servis Benefits:

                - Stimulates collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis

                - Plumps through collagen proliferation and skin hydration

                - Reduces wrinkles, fine lines and surface folds

                - Locks in moisture

                - Irritant free

Directions:

Smooth over lip area as often as needed. May be used under lipstick or alone.

 Manufactured in the USA. Totally Paraben free products and handcrafted

without harmful additives and irritants and never, tested on animals.  

.5 fl Oz/$40.00. For more information and to purchase visit www.allglamr.com.

My Thoughts:

Having sensitive skin that's prone to dryness, I was very excited to try, Lip Servis. I think I have purchased almost every lip balm on the market throughout the harsh winters and summers where my lips are at their driest. Almost all of them are thrown away after a week or so of giving them a chance. The constant need to reapply through the day, on top of waking up to see little to no results the next morning gets so frustrating. It feels like throwing money away. 

One of the first reasons that Lip Servis stood out to me was the ingredients and the benefits. Not only was the formula irritant free, it also locks in moisture while stimulating collagen. It can even help your lips when it comes to avoiding and treating fine lines and wrinkles. It is rare to find a product that can do all that in one! 

With the first application I could tell that the formula was thick, creamy, and easy to apply. You do not need a lot of the product to cover your lips. You can look below at the next couple of pictures to see how dreamy the formula is. Right away my lips felt soft and supple. It begins soaking in pretty fast with enough left over to make your lips feel cleansed. I had a couple dry spots and I could feel them hydrating. My little brother who also suffers from dry lips was surprised upon his first application too. He had a few minor cracks and could feel his lips beginning to heal. This did not sting or hurt the cracks at all.   

 After a couple days of use my lips were looking and feeling fantastic. I could see results the very next day! The dry spots were gone and my lips were easier to exfoliate. My brother also had fantastic results as well. I have not seen a product heal cracked lips so quickly. It also works great underneath lipsticks for my makeup lovers! 

Lip Servis is the way to go for those who are looking for a way to finally heal their lips and keep them looking and feeling hydrated, soft, and supple. If you are tired of other products that provide little to no results, I urge you to give this a shot! My tube now has a special spot in my purse.   

Connect with AllGlamr:

Website  Facebook  Tumblr Twitter  Instagram  

   

Time to Shake Up Your Beauty Routine with Humble's All Natural Deodorant.

SOMETIMES, THE TRUTH STINKS.

Grocery store antiperspirants have become the most common solution to bromhidrosis, or what most of us affectionately refer to as B.O. We smear these sticks of who-knows-what on our bodies day in and day out, often unaware of the havoc they may be wreaking internally. You see, most antiperspirants out there contain chemicals like aluminum chloride and parabens that have potential links to breast cancer, lymph node cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and liver disease. The American Journal of Public Health published a report showing that on average, 64% of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our body and some studies show nearly 100% of what we put on our armpits is absorbed into our body. Where does it go after being absorbed? Right into your bloodstream. We think this stinks pretty badly.

ENTER HUMBLE. HUMBLE WAS CONCEIVED IN THE KITCHEN OF OUR FOUNDER WHO WAS FRUSTRATED WITH THE EXISTING SELECTION OF ANTIPERSPIRANTS AND ALL-NATURAL DEODORANTS.

After countless concoctions and tests, he finally created a product that works. Humble contains four to five organic and all-natural ingredients that you can pronounce (and might, in fact, have in your own kitchen). Humble is both effective and safe, containing no aluminum or parabens while still keeping you dry and free of offensive odors. We take the care to manufacture our deodorant in small batches right here in America. With the fewest ingredients of any deodorant on the market, Humble is the simple solution to a stinky problem.

My Thoughts: 

Ever since I started reading about the dangers of store bought antiperspirants, I have been on the search for a good alternative. Going through the aisles of my local supermarkets and drug stores, almost no all natural brands were being sold. I was extremely surprised by this. After trying one I did come across a few months ago, I ended up breaking out in a horrible rash. I was left disappointed. I knew there had to be a brand that worked somewhere. 

When I heard about Humble's products, I was thrilled to give them a try. A completely natural, cruelty free line of deodorants with ingredients I actually recognized? Count me in!  

Humble has created three signature products in their deodorant line: Essential Cedarwood, Essential Lavender, and Simply Unscented. All are created using Organic Cornstarch, Organic Bees Wax, All-Natural Baking Soda, Organic Olive Oil, and Organic Essential Oil (Scented products only). Upon opening them they smelled fantastic! I loved the relaxing smell of Lavender. The Cedarwood was an nice uplifting woodsy scent. Although the Simply Unscented did not have essential oils in it, it had a very light clay type fragrance. It was nice! 

I tried each one for an extended period of time to know how they worked in terms of longevity and wearing power. Each had a nice thick consistency. The application was a little chunky, but that was easy to solve. If you take a paper towel and wipe off any excess you will be fine. They dry pretty quickly after applying and are not sticky or uncomfortable. The Cedarwood and Lavender left a nice scent after application. Each one lasted a different amount of time for me, but all three did indeed last! Another plus, none of them irritated my skin. 

The one that gave me the longest lasting performance was the Essential Cedarwood. I absolutely love this one. It worked all day long for me and still smelled fresh before bed. No matter how much I sweated after a long day of running around, it stayed put. I was amazed! 

Essential Lavender lasted almost as long, but the smell was close to being gone by the time I was ready to go to sleep. Simply Unscented needed an extra application after a few hours, but it is still a wonderful pick for those who are sensitive to essential oils or are not looking for a scented deodorant. Each did leave a slight residue on my clothes, but again, if you take a paper towel to remove any excess product before putting on your clothes, that should reduce any marks. It is easy to fix.  

    

If you are looking for an all natural deodorant option, Humble's products are for you! These are wonderful products that are long lasting, wonderful smelling, and just as effective as store bought (if not more)! Thank you Humble for providing me with my new go to products! 

Connect with Humble:

Website Twitter Facebook Pinterest Instagram 

7th Heaven Dead Sea Peel-Off Mask Review.

The Dead Sea Peel-Off Mask from 7th Heaven harnesses the therapeutic properties of Dead Sea salts and seaweed.  Wear it while relaxing, and then peel off to reveal naturally glowing, fresher, cleaner skin. The mask features crushed sea salt crystals to deep cleanse and purify, seaweed to fight free radicals, and chamomile to soothe. Only $2.50 for each single serve mask.  

My Thoughts: 

I was thrilled to try these masks from 7th Heaven. I have enjoyed the products I've used by them in the past, so I knew this was going to be a great new addition. These masks are lovely! 

Before applying, I began by cleansing my face before use. I opened the packs and instantly smelled the potent aroma. It was relaxing and energizing. The product was nice and thick. There's plenty of it in the pouch. It is easy to spread all over the face. The Dead Sea masks holds up well and do not fall off during application. You can feel the mask begin to dry as you relax. 

At first I got a cold sensation on my face after putting it on, but it didn't last long. At about the 20 minute mark I could feel the mask beginning to peel naturally. It was extremely easy to remove and came off almost completely together. The smell of the mask also stayed on my face and hands for a few hours. That evening I got into the shower before bed and cleansed my face. Afterwords, I applied my moisturizer and realized that some of my blackheads appeared to be closer to the surface. I had no issues removing them. I definitely think the mask had something to do with that! 

A tip for use: As you apply the mask, try not to get any in your hair. It will end up drying and flaking off. The first time I applied this it happened to me so I had to take some water and rinse. Despite that, this mask made me skin feel so smooth and radiant. Something I love about the 7th Heaven products too is that they are natural and good for your skin. This Dead Sea variety of their peel off masks is made with sea salt, seaweed, and soothing chamomile. A great combination for glowing skin! I highly recommend it.

Connect with 7th Heaven:

Website  Twitter Facebook Instagram Pinterest 

One of the "hottest" new trends- Sauna Warming Facial Masks.

7th Heaven has just created two new self-warming sauna facial masks, offered in generous single-serve sachets, that heat upon application.  This includes the following masks bursting with natural ingredients for the perfect skin treat.  MSRP $1.99 at Ulta Beauty, Bed Bath & Beyond, Harmond and more:

1. Red Hot Earth Sauna Masque - An anti-stress, deep pore cleansing formula for all skin types.  Cleanses to the core with rich volcanic clay and plant extracts.  The warming from application helps open pores to coax out impurities.

2. Hot Spring Sauna Masque - Exfoliates and nourishes for deep pore cleansing.  Contains volcanic spring powder and chopped ginger.  Also features bamboo for polishing and leaves skin glowing.

My Thoughts:

As a working college student, I love finding new ways to relax during the week that are quick and easy, but still just as soothing. These luscious creations by 7th Heaven are ideal for people on the go like me. I tried both of their new self-warming sauna selections, and I was highly impressed with my results! 

The first one I tried was the, Red Hot Earth Sauna Masque. There is plenty of it to give you a thick, soft lather. The product is not as red as it appears on the packaging. It's more of a bright pink color. Although they advertise that it is made with red clay, at first I felt it was a thinner texture than what I would think a clay mask would feel like. However, once I let it sit and tried to remove it, I realized how thick it actually was! It covered my face very well.

The masque is warm upon contact with your face. It slowly starts to cool off as it sits. The scent is not over bearing at all, which is perfect for me considering my allergies make me sensitive to heavy smells. The masque is made with squeezed lime, pressed jasmine, juiced grapefruit, as well as red clay. It is very refreshing! The masque is a non-drying formula, and to be left on for 15 minutes. It helps remove excess oil without drying the skin, while helping the user de-stress. Once I washed it off, my skin felt smoother, shinier, cleaner, and not oily at all! I loved it! The masque advertises that it works best when used once a week to maintain your glowing appearance! I will certainly be using it again.

The last masque I tried was the, Hot Spring Sauna Masque. I adored the smell of this one! The masque is made with volcanic spring minerals, chopped ginger, and pulped pumpkin. It's an exfoliating mask, so it also has bits of bamboo to remove dead skin cells, while opening up and cleaning pores. I felt there was not as much product in this one as the last, but this masque was also a lot thicker and grittier since it exfoliates. Still, there was plenty to apply to get full coverage. As you rub the masque on, the bamboo automatically begins exfoliating the skin. It is nice to not have to sit and rub excessively. For those that do have sensitive skin, I would advise to be careful not to rub too hard. There is plenty of bamboo in the masque to do the work for you. Once you wash it off, you get a good exfoliation as well. Like the Red Hot Masque, this is a nondrying formula that you wash off in 15 minutes. 

Upon putting the masque on, it heats up very quickly. I actually felt this one stayed warmer longer than the other, and warmed up again as I took it off. My skin felt incredibly smooth once I washed the masque away, and I could see some of my dead skin already coming off before rinsing. This will defiantly be my go to masque during the winter season when my skin gets very dry and flakes. 

I would highly recommend both of these luxurious and affordable masques from, 7th Heaven! You will not be disappointed with your results. I also have to highlight that I love that 7th Heaven is a company that creates all of their masques themselves by harvesting and pressing the ingredients, while also being approved by PETA, being cruelty free, and vegetarian standard approved. Plus, who wouldn't want to bring the comfort of a relaxing spa day to your home? These are two products you will love treating yourself to!  

Connect with 7th Heaven:

Website  Twitter Facebook  Instagram  Pinterest

  

Review & Giveaway: Scarology The Ultimate Scar Removal System

One third of women in the United States have a C-section delivery. While this brings them the wonderful gift of life, it also leaves them with an unsightly scar. Often times, these scars will fade and leave just a pale, thin, flat line. But, sometimes, scars are bigger, thicker and raised and don't heal as well. While creams and oils may help a bit with a scar's appearance, there really hasn't been anything that has worked wonders. Until now... 

Introducing Scarology™ Ultimate Scar Treatment System for C-Sections & Large Scars: $78.50. Dr. Michael Connor and Dr. Jeanmarie Connor are a husband and wife team with twenty years of medical expertise specializing in plastic and reconstructive surgery and pediatrics. Together they have created Scarology.™ This new product is a safe and effective three-step at home scar treatment. The proprietary scar treatment system combines ingredients that have, until now, only been available in medical settings. These key ingredients have been shown to nourish the healing scar with hydration, and reduce inflammation in the scar tissue. 

Scarology’s unique 3-part system can be used on any skin type and on any scar once the skin has completely healed from the initial injury. The regimen is designed to target different phases of scarring. The kit includes a gentle exfoliator, simple scar cream and self-adhesive silicone sheets to be worn at night during sleep. Changes in scar appearance have been reported as early as 3 days following initial application. 

Products & Use:

Step One: Natural Fruit Acid Exfoliator: In the morning, spread a thin layer of Natural Fruit Acid Exfoliator over the healed scar and onto dry, residue-free skin. Massage into scar for 1-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Slow, controlled exfoliation allows removal of the unhealthy skin cells overlying the scar and stimulates the healthy surrounding tissue to replicate and replace the top layer of skin. 

Step Two: Ultimate Scar Cream: Apply the Ultimate Scar Cream twice daily. Following Step 1, massage cream onto scar and leave on skin throughout the day. In the evening, apply Ultimate Scar Cream again. Scarology’s™ innovative scar cream formula contains ingredients that have been shown to reduce inflammation and hydrate all layers of the wound. 

Step Three: Silicone Scar Sheet: At night, apply the self-adhesive Silicone Scar Sheet to skin. Remove sheet in the morning and store sheet with protective liner for repeated uses. The third component of the system is designed to help provide compression and nourishment to the scar throughout the night. Scarology’s ™ self adhesive silicone sheet uses advanced patented silicone technology currently used in hospitals. 

For best results, it is recommended that Scarology’s™ 3-step Ultimate Scar System is used for a minimum of 3 months with continued use for as long as the scar shows signs of improvement. Older scars may require 6-12 months of continuous therapy. 

Does Scarology™ Work on Old Scars?
Scars from several years ago are the most difficult to treat and most likely will not change in appearance with topical silicone or onion extract alone. However, Scarology’s™ 3 part system is different. Scarology is the only commercially available product for scars that may enhance the appearance of old scars. 

Can Scarology™ be Used on Pigmented Skin?

Scarology can be used on all skin types.
 

The three phases of wound healing 

Phase 1: Initiation 

This first phase begins immediately after the injury and is completed within a few hours. During this phase, there is the formation of a blood clot. In addition, proteins in the body, called fibrin, create a matrix for reparative cells to enter the site and start the healing process.    

Phase 2: Inflammatory

This phase begins soon after and new cells start to grow in order to cover the wound surface. Granulation tissue (early scar tissue) begins to form and new blood vessels start to sprout in order to nourish the reparative cells. A collagen matrix replaces the fibrin matrix and inflammatory cells enter along the wound’s new scaffold. Altering the inflammatory cells during this phase can dramatically improve the appearance of a scar.

Phase 3: Remodeling 

This is the last phase of wound healing. A strong type of collagen slowly replaces the blood vessels and reparative cells. Specific cells, called myofibroblasts, remain in this collagen matrix and contract, which ultimately leads to a decrease in the size of the scar. Reparative cells continue to enter and survey the scar for months and even years after the injury, which is why scars tend to look better at 1 year than at 1 month. The wound environment changes dramatically during the course of healing and the formation and appearance of a scar is directly related to the events described above.
 

The History of Scarology ™
Scarology ™ was created in Palm Beach, Florida, by two physicians -- a husband and wife team: Dr. Michael Connor and Dr. Jeanmarie Connor. They have a combined twenty years of medical expertise specializing in plastic and reconstructive surgery in the face and neck as well as pediatrics.

For years, patients asked them for a safe and effective at home scar treatment that could be used on both adults and children that helps fade acne scars, facial scars, burn scars, keloids, wound scars, stretch marks and more. Unfortunately neither could make a recommendation.

As physicians they knew that they needed to have more informed answers for their patients. Over the course of the next few months they extensively researched available scar creams on the market along with consuming as much data on scar treatment published in medical journals. They were surprised to find that no single scar cream examined made a significant difference at 1 year.  

Seeing the emotional & physical impact scarring had on their patients, they knew there had to be a better way. They initially developed a simple scar cream formula and would recommend patients purchase self-adhesive silicone sheets along with a gentle exfoliator to improve the final appearance of a scar. All of the patients who followed this regimen were satisfied with the final appearance of their scar, without exception. 

As they witnessed that the final appearance of a scar can be greatly improved with daily use of these 3 simple steps, they decided to make the system available to the world. So in 2014 the 3 step kit and Scarology™ was born.

FREE SHIPPING on orders over $50!

For more information on Scarology visit: Scarology.com. You can also visit Scarology on their social media:

Facebook
Twitter
Youtube
Instagram
Pinterest
Google+

One lucky winner is going to receive the Scarology™ Ultimate Scar Treatment System for C-Sections & Large Scars to try for themselves. To enter, just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. Open to the US only. Giveaway will end (enter date here). The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Scarology for offering this fantastic prize! 

Entry-Form

Our Thoughts
I have two recent, large scars - one on my collarbone, one right over my spine on my upper back.  I didn't lose just skin, but some flesh as well, making these scars deeper than average, especially the one on my back.  While I figured the collarbone one would eventually fade to almost nothing within a few years, the one on my back left a noticeable divot, as well as severe discoloration.  The texture was puckered, too.

Scarology sent me the Scarology™ Ultimate Scar Treatment System for C-Sections & Large Scars to try on these two recently-healed wounds.  The wounds healed over in late February of this year, and I started the Scarology system on April 30th, just a bit over two months later. I wanted to try this system to see if I could both improve my scars' appearances and reduce the irritation from clothing touching the scars.

The Scarology system consists of an exfoliator, a cream, and self-adhesive silicone sheets.  Now, they recommend you apply the exfoliator to clean, dry skin - rub it in for 1 - 3 minutes (massage more if your scar is healed enough to take it the pressure), rinse it clean, then apply the cream and go about your day.  At the end of the day, apply the cream again, then apply the silicone sheet, which you'll wear all night long.

I didn't do it in quite that fashion.  I flipped the night/day routines because it made more sense with my schedule.  I do recommend thoroughly reading every bit of printed material that comes with, and on, these products because all of that information does not appear to be available online. 

Here's what you need to know about

the silicone scar sheets!

1. These are reusable, however they will last longest if you wash them between each use. They say the sheets can be reused for up to 2 weeks, however, my experience was they lasted anywhere from 4 days to about a week and a half.  I'm not sure, but it is possible I didn't get 2 weeks out of each sheet due to the area of the body they were used on.  My shoulder/back area is naturally more oily than say, if I were to use the sheets on my C-section scar.

2. They recommend washing the silicone scar sheets with basic soap.  What this REALLY needs to say is, wash with basic DETERGENT.  (Scarology people, if you're reading this, PLEASE change the directions on your silicone scar sheets to reflect this!) Soap and detergent are two different things.  Soap is oil based (made with butters/oils and a lye solution) and will break down the silicone faster than if detergent was used.  At first I used exactly what they said - basic soap.  Can't get more basic than cold process soap - that's what basic soap is!  I found once I switched to detergent (I used the original Blue Dawn dishwashing liquid) the scar sheets lasted much longer, up to a week and a half.

3. After washing, you're supposed to store them in the little plastic box until your next wearing.  They will NOT dry in there unless you leave the box open with the sheet propped up so it can get air circulation. If you put the sheets on while still damp, the silicone has a tendency to separate from the fabric, and it doesn't stick to your skin very well unless both your skin and the silicone sheets are completely dry.

4. It says on the box you're to store the sheets in, that it works best if you wear the silicone sheet for at least 12 hours at a time.  Now, I don't know who sleeps for 12 hours, but it's not me.  Many people don't drop into bed until the late hours, and are up and on the road early every morning.  This is why I flipped the routine and wore them during the day instead, logging 14 - 16 hours wear time per day. It is perfectly okay to flip the routine.  You're still doing everything in the right order, as recommended, just changing the time of day that you do the routines. Besides, I didn't care if anyone saw the scar sheets on me; I figured people would rather see that than the big red angry scars! (Not that I care what others think though about my scars, LOL!!  They're simply a part of life and things that happen.)

Being as I ran out of Scarology's silicone scar sheets due to the misunderstanding over SOAP - I purchased another brand available locally.  It was pretty much the same thing, only slightly thicker silicone and I found I actually liked the thicker sheets a little better. 

The scar sheets are supposed to reduce itchiness - I found that on Day 1 of a new sheet, the adhesive was (of course!) the strongest, and therefore actually contributed to itchiness as it pulled on my skin.  Again, this could be due to the location of my scars - you don't realize just how much you move your upper body throughout your day! I found that with the slightly thicker (different brand) silicone sheets, my scars itched less because the sheets didn't stretch as much. With all my upper body movement, the thinner Scarology sheets also formed air bubbles quite often that would then need smoothing out.

A WORD OF CAUTION: if you get a sunburn around the area of the scar (where you're wearing the silicone sheet) - DO NOT use their cream on the sunburned skin.  I treated all of my sunburn except where I had applied their cream (you know how in just rubbing the cream in you get it on more skin than *just* the scar), figuring it would be good enough that all of my sunburn got covered by some sort of nourishing cream.  WRONG!  LOL. Where I had treated my sunburn, it faded overnight.  Where I had applied their cream (slightly around the area covered by the silicone sheet during the day) I still had a very red, uncomfortable sunburn. So please be careful if you get sunburned, to only use the cream where the scar is under the silicone sheet and not on the surrounding sunburned skin.

Okay, so here we go - let's get right to the pictures! (LOL trust me, be glad I'm not sharing the wound photos prior to being healed over!)

*** I took all photos in the morning before applying any cream. ***

BEFORE: not real pretty, are they?

Part of the reason I flipped the routine and wore the silicone sheets during the day is that these scars were right where many of my shirts' tags and seams were, leading to more irritation.  The silicone sheets acted as a buffer for the chafing, which greatly increased my comfort as these continued to heal.

AFTER 6 DAYS:
Scarology says you may see a difference in as little as 3 days.  While I didn't see a noticeable color difference in the collar bone one, I did see a little bit of color improvement on the back one.

AFTER 1 MONTH:

Here you can see slightly more color improvement; the back one was beginning to flatten out a bit and have some textural improvement.



AFTER 2 MONTHS:
Again, more color & texture improvement. The one on my back, a good portion of the dark redness has faded to a much lighter color. LOL you can also see exactly where the silicone sheets were since I got a bit of a tan.

AFTER 3 MONTHS:
This is the minimum amount of time recommend to use the Scarology products on scars - and continue using as long as you're seeing improvement. 

I did stop wearing the silicone sheets for a few days prior to taking the 3 month progression photos to see if I could even out my tan a little bit.  I'm also happy to report there has been enough improvement in the scars that I can stand wearing clothes that touch the scars without them getting irritated by the clothes rubbing on them! 

It's also the high heat of the summer (August!), so I'm having trouble getting the silicone sheets to stick to me throughout the day anyway thanks to the high humidity. When the season cools back down a bit, I'll continue wearing the scar sheets.

For a side to side comparison:

There you have it - proof that the Scarology™ Ultimate Scar Treatment System for C-Sections & Large Scars WORKS. In time, I do believe the collarbone one will be almost unnoticeable.  The one on my back may take years to fade away but it just takes time and some good skin nourishment &care routine.

Elite Serum Rx Review and #Giveaway.

Elite Serum is an internally developed, anti-aging topical cosmeceutical. It is a scientifically designed eye serum, which is formulated using an exclusive combination of unique DNA precursor pool peptides.

The latest version of Elite Serum released in September 2013 is the Elite Serum Rx.

Elite Serum Rx (Extra Strength) is intended to reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, and the appearance of crow’s feet and fine lines around the eyes. With continued use as directed, Elite Serum Rx can improve tone, skin elasticity, and firmness, which improves the youthful appearance of users of any age by restoring a more youthful eye contour.

Since 2009, Elite Serum has been a flagship product.  Originally putting SkinPro on the map as one of the fastest growing skin care companies in the world, it continues to be re-formulated with the latest scientific breakthroughs. SkinPro scientists reformulate Elite Serum every 18 months in order to assure its perennial standing as the world’s most powerful eye serum.

Our staff of specially trained cosmetic pharmacists designed Elite Serum using a proprietary anti-aging peptide formula developed by scientist Irwin Grams. The ingredients are exclusively sourced in the United States, France, Germany and Switzerland. Fully trained and licensed technicians at SkinPro’s laboratory facility in Florida manufacture this product in a GMP and ISO 9002 certified environment.

• Argireline®, the brand name for Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, is considered the best needle-free alternative to Botox. Around the eyes and on the forehead, in a 2002 study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, it was shown to reduce wrinkle depth by up to 30 percent after 30 days of treatment.
• Matrixyl 3000™ contains the matrikines, Pal-GHK and Pal-GQPR. These matrikines are vital to cutaneous restructuration and repair. They activate the neosynthesis of extracellular matrix macromecules, thus providing Matrixyl™3000 with a visible anti-wrinkle efficacy. They are capable of regulating cellular activity by interacting with specific receptors to trigger the stimulation of certain genes involved in the process of cell proliferation and extracellular matrix renewal.
• Syn®-Coll is an aqueous based peptide considered ideal for activating Tissue Growth Factor (TGF), which is the key element in the synthesis of collagen, a crucial component of the extra cellular matrix (ECM) of the skin. Degenerative changes in the skin take place without this crucial piece of the cellular puzzle. Syn-Coll compensates for collagen deficits and makes the skin look more youthful.
• SNAP-8 is an octapeptide that is an elongation of the peptide Argireline®. It is well known that the molecular mechanism involved in facial aging is due to the changes in the collagen triple helix, as well as degradation of elastin peptides and the packing of the lipidic matrix of the skin. By modulating muscle contraction, the changes in the conformation of collagen and disturbance of the lipid matrix can be significantly impacted.
• Haloxyl® is also known as Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. This peptide reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. By encouraging proper circulation in the eye area, Haloxyl® reverses the buildup of fluids that naturally occur at night. A common cause of puffiness and dark circles, eyelid swelling is occurs, when you lie down because gravity causes fluid to accumulate in your lower eyelids. Haloxyl® counteracts this effect by increasing lymphatic drainage by up to 85% in clinical studies. In addition, Haloxyl® breaks down and flushes out the eye area, removing the toxin-formed pigmented blood that causes dark circles to form.
• Eyeliss™ is a proprietary combination of three active peptide molecules designed to rapidly, and effectively, reduce puffiness and bag volume under the eyes. This bio-molecular engineered solution was discovered as a result of sensory perception screening tests, which were specifically designed to treat puffiness under the eyes. Eyeliss is composed of three important ingredients:

1. Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone decreases the capillary permeability in the lower eyelid. This molecule primes the delicate skin of this area for lymphatic drainage and toning.
2.  Dipeptide Valyl-Tryptophane is a peptide, which increases lymphatic circulation leading to drainage. This peptide is responsible for safely draining the fluid out of the puffy eye bags.
    
3. Lipopeptide Pal-GQPR improves skin firmness and elasticity, which helps to remove fine lines and wrinkles on the sensitive lower eyelid skin. In addition to aiding firmness and elasticity, this peptide decreases the inflammation commonly caused by other lymphatic drainage agents.

• Red & Green Seaweed Extracts target glycation. Glycation takes place when natural sugar molecules bond to a protein or lipid molecule without the controlling action of an enzyme. This process impairs the function of biomolecules and weakens the skin structure at the cellular level. The result is a less firm surface and an increase in wrinkling. These natural seaweed extracts target this process and preserve the skin’s natural collagen. Studies have also shown that natural seaweed extracts inhibit two enzymes linked to the breakdown of the proteins elastin and collagen, and inhibit a range of viruses from entering the cells; making is an ideal ingredient for a therapeutic facial cleanser.
• Hyaluronic Acid is important for maintaining hydration substances in human skin. Natural Hyaluronan concentrations in the skin decrease over time. As a result, the skin’s ability to maintain moisture is weakened and has a rough and dry appearance. Hyaluronic Acid penetrates the dermis, where it combines with water and increases microcirculation and nutrient absorption. Rapid skin rejuvenation results and wrinkles, crow’s feet, and other cosmetic signs of aging around the eyes diminished. These signs of aging can be caused by sun damage, smoking, stress, and other common factors. Hyaluronic Acid is also commonly known by its brand name, Restylane®.

NEW in Elite Serum Rx (Extra Strength)

• Syn®-TC from Pentapharm was recently added to the newly formulated Elite Serum Rx (Extra Strength). This synthetic peptide-based complex is tailor-made to ensure best performance for high-perfoming, anti-aging eye serum formulas. It significantly increases the formation of Collagen I, III, IV, VII and XVII to facilitate their unique contribution to beautiful, smooth skin. In a comprehensive study consumers confirmed the experienced a new dimension of skin smoothing around the delicate eye areas. In only 28 days at usage level of 2.5%, the skin around the eyes becomes smoother with a softer touch and an improved overall young-looking appearance.
• Inyline™ was created by Lipotec to target muscle contraction around the eyes by blocking the agrin binding site in MuSK and its mechanism of action. This in turn causes modulation of muscle contraction leading which leads to muscle relaxation. From a cosmetic point of view, in the treatment of expression wrinkles, this action is critical in the contraction process and therefore the blockage of it results in muscle relaxation, with the skin surface appearing smoother and line depth decreasing.

My Thoughts:

Elite Serum Rx is unlike any serum I've seen on the market. It has a wide array of peptides, and researchers at SkinPro have done their work to ensure each ingredient has shown an improvement on skin. When my sample arrived, the packaging was unique. The box was well made and sturdy, and there was information to explain how the product works on notecards. The design of the product itself was just as unique. It was made into a syringe! To dispense, you undo the cap, twist the security lock off, and administer one pump. The syringe design was created to ensure that every pump gives you enough serum to fit one application. Once dispensed, you lightly dab and massage the serum under your eyes and on the eyelids if you prefer. Since I get puffy circles just below my under eyes, I massaged the product into my skin there as well. One tube of Elite Serum Rx is enough for 45-60 days. Its recommended use is twice per day, preferably in the morning and at night.     

I have to say that upon application on my first day using the serum, I noticed a difference. My dark circles were lighter and my puffiness decreased within a few minutes. I found the texture of the product to be a bit sticky after it dried. After letting it sit for a couple minutes, it went away once it soaked in. I didn't notice any sort of dry or oily texture. My eyes looked brighter, more awake and soft.

I have only used the Elite Serum Rx for a short time, so I can't say I have seen a drastic change, but the fine lines that I had under my eyes have started to appear even smaller. I also always see a difference upon application to my dark circles, any redness if I’m tired, and puffiness. The instruction cards given stated that for maximum benefits, it could take up to six months of regular application. For only using the product a short time, I can honestly say I have enjoyed the benefits I have experienced and I plan to continue my regime with it. I actually still have quite a lot of product left. The fact that I have experienced no adverse reactions considering my under eye area is very sensitive has made me thrilled. I'm prone to redness, drying and stinging, and have had none of those reactions while using Elite Serum Rx.

 I'm very pleased overall and would recommend this to anyone searching for an eye serum.  

Connect with Elite Serum:

Website  Twitter Youtube Google+

The Giveaway 

One lucky winner is going to receive a Elite Serum RX to try for themselves. To enter just fill out the giveaway tools form below. Open to the US only. Giveaway will end  6/27/16. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Nature's Path for offering this fantastic prize!

Entry-Form