Reviewing the Keychain LED Flashlight by Olight

Recently, I've spent some time with folks who require high quality, everyday tools and I noticed that many of them were referring to their Olight brand flashlights. I started paying attention to what they were saying about the brand. I'm so glad I did. My recent Olight order included the i3E EOS Keychain LED Flashlight as a free gift and I couldn't be happier.

The i3E EOS Mono-Output Keychain LED Flashlight by  Olight

This small and convenient flashlight is great for hiking, camping, fishing, walking in unlit areas, sudden power outages, dark areas of parking garages, lighting locks instead of fumbling to insert your key in the dark, and much more.

The specifications are listed as:

• LED Light Source Type
• Powered by one AAA battery
• Twist to turn off and on
• 90 lumens and 44 meters/144 feet beam distance
• Made of durable aircraft-grade aluminium and anti-scratch anodizing
• Waterproof rating: IPX8
• Run Time: 70 minutes (NiMh battery) and 45 minutes (akaline battery)
• Currently offered in 7 different colors

To be honest, I had to look up the definition of the IPX8 waterproof rating. I learned that:

"IPX7 and IPX8 are specific levels of Ingress Protection (IP) ratings that define the water resistance of electronic devices. IPX7 denotes protection against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, while IPX8 indicates protection against continuous immersion beyond 1 meter depth." - Keystone Compliance

My Personal Thoughts about the Olight Keychain LED Flashlight

In the distant past, I often purchased flashlights based on their price tag. Those flashlights were often made with plastic parts and would chip or break. They quickly ate through batteries.  Or would stop working from some internal malfunction.  More recently, I've started to purchase flashlights that are more durable but are still at the lower end of pricing as far as flashlights go. I've been very happy with my two flashlights that I currently use around the house and for chores. I keep one of those flashlights in my bedroom and one near the front door. 

As the days are growing shorter, I am leaving the house in the pitch dark. I am determined to not leave my porch light on all day just so I can see my way to the truck in the morning. That leaves two options, use a flashlight or stumble to the truck in the dark. If I use my chores flashlight, I have been forgetting it in the truck and then don't have it available the next morning. Having a mini flashlight attached to my keychair is a PERFECT solution.

I imagine I won't only use this handy flashlight in the mornings to get to my truck. If I am driving in the dark and pull over to check something (e.g. it sounds like something is happening with my tire) I have a quick source of light. 

Recently, my office building has been experiencing multiple, but brief so far, power outages. I have quickly learned that when the power goes out my office is pitch black. Fortunately, I have just had to sit still for a few minutes until the power flickers back on. But now I am prepared for a lengthier period of darkness if need be. 

This light is not meant for hours of hiking in the dark as there is only one level of light (not a choice between high and low beam) and the battery life is 45 to 60 minutes. But it is perfect for brief situations in which you need light. 

Best of all, I received this little flashlight as a free gift. I have heard that Olight runs specials and giveaways from time to time. And in this case, existing customers only needed to log in and add this flashlight to the shopping cart to secure a free light. How fun is that? I had already been planning on ordering some of their small flashlights for the reasons I mentioned above. A free light and bonus points that they offered one in orange!

This tiny light, not much larger than my post office box key, is perfect in size and accessibility. It would make an awesome gift and is the perfect size for a stocking stuffer. It comes in nice packaging and with a "Quality 5 Year Warranty Promise". 

This tiny flashlight can be found on the Olight Website and is also currently listed on Amazon. 

Related Links: 

I recently reviewed the two flashlights that I've been using for chores and around the house. If you want to read what I think about the JobSmart and Diehard flashlights you can see that here.

Sylvestermouse Cynthia reviewed the Coleman LED lantern and you can read that review here. 

Sam Monaco reviewed a way to keep all of those batteries organized with the Battery Daddy Organizer. You can read that review here. 

Tracey Boyer reminds us of the importance of having a Safety Kit with you for emergencies. She includes a flashlight in hers. You can read about that here. 

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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The Best Spa Headbands for Face Washing, Skincare, Makeup Application

Today's product review is for my favorite spa headbands, which I use both morning and evening to hold my hair back while I cleanse my face and apply my skincare, sunscreen, and (sometimes) makeup.

The spa headbands I tried before discovering these were uncomfortable and/or unattractive. Fortunately, my new spa headbands are both comfortable and cute and come in a range of color choices.

One of My Favorite Beauty Accessories

Recently, I have been sharing product reviews of several of my favorite affordable beauty and skincare tools and accessories, including microfiber spa wristbands that keep your arms dry during facial cleansing, soft microfiber-covered face washing sponges and silicone facial cleansing and exfoliating lip scrubbers that cleanse your pores gently and effectively and make your lips smoother and fuller.

Now, I'm pleased to share the spa headbands that I use twice a day to keep my hair out of my face during cleansing and then application of my skincare products, sunscreen (every day, rain, snow or shine!), and makeup (if I'm wearing any).

The terrycloth wrap (left) has a hook-and-loop closure that snagged my hair. The soft microfiber plush band (right) was too tight, despite the elasticized back. Fortunately, the padded headband (center) is perfect—comfortable, easy to get on and off, and even cute!

Before discovering these, I had been using either terrycloth or microfiber spa headbands that encircle the entire head. Some were too small (even though I don't have a large head), making them uncomfortable. One had a Velcro-type hook-and-loop closure that often snagged my hair. The other wasn't adjustable and, despite the small length of elastic at the back, was hard to get on and off and gave me a headache. Also (admittedly a secondary consideration), neither was very attractive while I was staring at my face in my magnifying makeup mirror, lol.

Recently, I started seeing beauty influencers on Instagram and YouTube wearing these cute, padded spa headbands to keep their hair away from their faces while demonstrating skincare or makeup application. 

Honestly, my expectations were low, especially when I looked on Amazon and saw how inexpensive a set of two of these headbands was. But after I messaged one of the "mature beauty" influencers I follow who assured me that they were, indeed, both comfortable and secure, I decided to give them a try.

I'm so glad I did!

Key Features and Benefits

Here are the main reasons I love these affordable padded spa headbands.

Three of my four padded spa headbands (I have two in black)

Comfortable

The spa headbands I had tried before either were too tight or had a Velcro-type hook-and-loop closure that often snagged my hair. One of my hesitations in ordering these was that I often find semi-rigid (plastic or metal) headbands uncomfortable and they tend to give me a headache after I wear them for a short time. 

Fortunately, these padded spa headbands are quite flexible and don't give me a headache.

Secure

Even though these bands are flexible enough to be worn comfortably—even throughout the day, if you wish—they also hold my hair securely, keeping it away from my face while I am cleansing or doing my skincare, sunscreen, or makeup application.

Attractive and Versatile

Even though I prioritized function over looks when searching for spa headbands, the fact that these are much cuter and more functional than the others I tried is a nice bonus. In fact, these look nice enough for younger women and girls to wear as a casual fashion accessory. Even as a senior, I sometimes wear the black one when I go out for a walk.

They’re also great for keeping your hair off your face while exercising or soaking in a tub.

Note: When I wear these in any color other than black, my husband has been known to teasingly call me Lady Liberty. 

Choice of Colors

These come in sets of two in a range of color options. At the time of this post's publication, there are seven color combinations to choose from:

Purchase this set of 2
spa headbands on Amazon

• Black and light blue
• Black and lime green
• Black and white
• Black and bright yellow
• Light blue and white (although the product photo on Amazon shows one white spa headband and one pair of microfiber face-washing wristbands)
• Light pink and black
• Light blue and light pink

Inexpensive and Good Quality

As of this post's publication, nearly all the color choices sell on Amazon for $9.99 plus free Prime shipping for Amazon Prime members. Since they come in a set of two, that's less than $5 per band! The pink and black combo currently is even less expensive at $7.71 for the pair.

Given the low price, I was nervous about the quality. When my order arrived, however, I was delighted by the quality of the materials and finishing. Although I have only had mine for two months so far, they have held up well. 

In fact, I like them so much that I recently ordered a second pair so I could get a light blue one.

Affordable Beauty Gifts for Women of All Ages

Any woman or teen girl who enjoys beauty, skincare, or makeup application would probably love to receive a set of these cute, comfortable, padded spa headbands as a gift. 

If the women or girls on your list are avid skincare or makeup enthusiasts, consider putting together baskets of beauty gifts including some or all of the following spa accessories to create luxurious "gifts for her" at an affordable price. The plush VOLO Hero microfiber hair towel is the most expensive item at $44.25, but most of the suggestions below come in at around $10-$15 (as of this post's publication).

Set of 2 Terry Cloth Spa Headbands for Washing Face

Silicone Face Cleansing and Lip Exfoliating Brushes Set

Vtrem 4 Colors Reusable Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs

8 Pcs Microfiber Face Washing Spa Wristbands

NISHEL Travel Toiletry Bag

NISHEL Travel Jewelry Organizer Folio

NISHEL Double Layer Travel Makeup Bag

VOLO Hero Luna Gray Microfiber Hair Towel

The Best Spa Headbands for Face Washing, Skincare, Makeup Application by Margaret Schindel

Find More Great Gifts for Her in My Health and Beauty Product Reviews

The Best Silicone Face Cleansing Brushes for Better Skin and Smoother Lips

The Best Reusable Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges for Better Skin

These Inexpensive Face Washing Wristbands Keep Your Arms Dry

The Best Travel Toiletry Bag for Women Is a Bargain!

You’ll Love These Insanely Comfortable Memory Foam Slippers

How To Get Bright, Younger-Looking Eyes In 60 Seconds

The Best Dentist Approved, Inexpensive, 5-Mode Electric Toothbrush

The Best Manicure Tools for Strong, Healthy Nails

Read More Product Reviews From Our Contributors

Read More Gift Reviews From Our Contributors

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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MY BARBIE DOLL MEMORIES

BARBIE MEMORIES OF A BABY BOOMER

Barbie was invented in 1959, a few years before my sister and I were born and it would be a few more years before we were ready to play Barbie. When we were ready in about 1967, a young neighbor who we barely knew gave us her entire Barbie collection. She had had a few years to amass a small collection and to outgrow it. How lucky for us! That gift was the start of our Barbie collections and provided many, many hours of play. Though I have no idea who she was or where she might be today, I have never forgotten her generosity.

Over the years, we accrued, mostly from Santa Claus, but also on birthdays and with birthday money, a few more Barbie dolls and, of course, a few more Barbie-themed items to go with them. 

As with most familial memories, my sister and I have slightly differing memories but I know that we shared that collection that was passed to us over the fence. What follows is a review of the main Barbie items that I remember us having. I apologize if this list is not 100 percent accurate.

GOIN' CAMPING BREEZY BUGGY CAR AND TENT TRAILER SET (1973)

I had a Barbie convertible and tent trailer set from 1973 known as The Barbie Goin' Camping set with Breezy Buggy and Tent Trailer. The Breezy Buggy “really rolled” and the tent trailer “closed up to tow neat and tidy.” This set came with everything that Barbie needed to go camping with including a sleeping bag, a campfire and grill, a camp stool, a picnic table and cooking accessories.  I turned up a few Goin' Camping sets and items here on eBay. It is interesting to see that people still want this set today.

COUNTRY CAMPER (1970)

My sister had the 1970 Barbie Country Camper, which was known as “a home for Barbie wherever she explores…The swinginest camper on wheels!” It, too, came with a a couple of camp stools and sleeping bags to help Barbie on the go. I found a selection of Country Campers and replacement parts and pieces here on eBay. The picture shown here was used with permission of eBay seller Gameday28 who has other Barbie items and a large selection of vintage toys in his eBay store.  

THE TOWNHOUSE (1973)

My sister also had the three-foot-high Barbie Townhouse that featured a real ‘working’ elevator and a house full of plastic furniture. For whatever reason, I vividly remember the orange couch. 

TALKING BUSY BARBIE (1972)

In terms of dolls, I remember having a Barbie with short curly hair that talked. I think she may have been the Talking Busy Barbie who was released in 1972. This talking doll said things like, "I dig having my own TV," "The new fashions are wild" and "That music is groovy." 

MALIBU BARBIE (1971)

I also remember both of us eventually owning the 1971 Malibu Barbie. She turned out to be one of the most popular Barbies ever made and was produced for quite a few years. She was the ultimate surfer girl, suntanned with long straight blonde hair. Interestingly, she was popular enough that she has even been reissued over the years. If you are curious, you can see all of the new, used and vintage versions of Malibu Barbie here on eBay. My search just now turned up more than 2,300 Malibu Barbie items!

-----------------------------------------------------

We did not have a lot of toys when we were growing up, which was the way it was in those days for most children. Being gifted with a Barbie collection was definitely pretty special.

How about you? Did you play with Barbie? Do you have any Barbie memories?

See you 

in Barbie land!

Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

MORE BARBIE READING:

Barbie's in my eBay store! See what's in store here.

The Andy Warhol Barbie Doll

How to Create a Barbie Mermaid Gift Set

Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland Barbie Doll

The Black Canary, a comic book super heroine, Barbie Doll

The Tokidoki Tattoo Barbie Doll

The Titanic Movie Anniversary Barbie Doll

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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One of the Girls by Lucy Clarke, A Book Review

I chose Lucy Clarke's One of the Girls simply because it is set in Greece, a country I’d love to visit. I honestly paid little attention to what it was about and when it was set. I was looking for a novel that would offer a peek into Greece and the cover design surely emphasized the beautiful white and blues of that country. The text added interest with comments like:

“Full of suspense and unexpected thrills, it is hard to put this book down as you try to figure out the whodunit.” – USA Today

“…a masterclass in simmering tension and shocking revelations.” – Rosie Walsh

It will “keep you guessing which friend is behind the murderous plot.” – PopSugar

Be warned, this book is light. My copy had big text and short chapters and was, therefore, a fast read. I zoomed through it with each chapter making me wonder which one of the women commits the crime and what exactly the crime would be though I definitely was waiting for someone to be murdered.

The chapters are read from the viewpoint of each of the characters. One minute you are hearing from Lexi, the next from Bella, the next from Eleanor and so on. The women are a varied bunch with differing connections to the bride. And, of course, secrets. 

The story tells the tale of six women at a hen party in Greece. A hen party, for those who might not know, is when a bride-to-be gets together with a few or many friends to celebrate her upcoming marriage. Like a stereotypical bachelor’s party, it can include alcohol and outlandish behavior. This story does.

RECOMMENDED

Is One of the Girls recommended by me? Yes, if you are looking for a simple thriller set in the sun. In the end, you will be guessing who did it. In the meantime, you can enjoy the fresh food and sunshine of Greece served up with a shot of Ouzo. As Zachary Houle, who clearly did not enjoy the lightweight nature of the book says, “it requires no brain cells to enjoy.” I don’t have a problem with that especially if you are aware of that fact when you pick the book up. Escapism and armchair travel via a book is not a bad thing in my mind.

Readers on Goodreads gave the book an average of 3.98 stars and those on Amazon an average of 4.1. Both platforms clearly had people who liked the book and who did not, with lots of comments like it’s good for “fans of twisty thrillers with a beautiful setting.” I was willing and glad to be a one of those fans. 

Find your copy and read the reviews of One of the Girls by Lucy Clarke on Amazon by clicking right here. When you read the book, be sure to come back and let us know what you think.

See you
At the book store!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

MORE ARMCHAIR TRAVEL:

Another book set in Greece: Jeffrey Siger's The Mykonos Mob (Island of Secrets) Reviewed

Jeffrey Archer's False Impression, A Book Review

Where the Crawdads Sing, A Book Review

Michael Crichton's Travels, A Book Review

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Best Silicone Face Cleansing Brushes for Better Skin and Smoother Lips

I recently reviewed two of my favorite products for washing the face, reusable microfiber facial cleansing sponges and microfiber face washing wristbands.

Today's health and beauty product review is about another favorite tool in my skincare routine: silicone face scrubbers that I use a few times a week to help gently yet effectively deep clean pores around the oilier T-zone and to gently exfoliate and plump the lips.

These inexpensive silicone facial scrubbers are also hygienic and can't harbor bacteria like face towels, so they're great for anyone who deals with acne or blemishes.

Proper Cleansing Is Key to a Clearer, Smoother, Brighter Complexion

As I mentioned in previous reviews, the most important steps for achieving and maintaining your best complexion are 1) cleansing your face properly both morning and night (and after exercising), 2) using good skincare products targeted to your skin type and skin concerns, and 3) applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen that will provide UVA, UVB, and blue light protection 365 days a year, rain, snow or shine.

Washing your face properly means cleansing gently and thoroughly with lukewarm water and a good facial cleanser, lathering and massaging your face for 30-60 seconds, either once (single cleanse) or twice (double cleanse), either with the same cleanser or with two different cleansers, usually an oil-based cleanser for the first cleanse to break down sunscreen and/or makeup and a water-based cleanser for the second cleanse to break down excess oil and sebum.

The Right Tools Help Cleanse Your Face Thoroughly and Gently

I like to wear a terrycloth headband to hold my hair back away from my face and microfiber face-washing wristbands to keep my arms dry when I am cleansing my face. I also use soft microfiber facial cleansing sponges rather than a washcloth as part of my facial cleansing routine, for reasons I explained in my recent microfiber facial cleansing sponges product review.

At age 69, my former peaches-and-cream complexion with virtually invisible pores is no longer. Inevitably, the pores in my T-zone have enlarged with age. And, despite never having had so much as a blemish or a blackhead through my teens and twenties, I now have to deal with periodic, random blemishes.

That's why I have also started using silicone face cleansing brushes to gently but thoroughly clean the pores in my T-zone.

I have two kinds of silicone facial scrubbers, as they are often called (although I caution against using them to aggressively scrub your skin): a silicone facial brush and a silicone lip scrubber.

How to Use Silicone Face Cleansing Brushes and Lip Scrubber Brushes

Here is how I recommend using these types of brushes for cleansing the skin effectively, applying skincare products after cleansing, and exfoliating and massaging the lips before applying lip balm, gloss, or lipstick.

Silicone Face Cleansing Brushes AKA Silicone Facial Scrubbers

The facial cleansing brush is an oval pad with small, fine silicone bristles covering most of it and a smaller section at one edge with larger, round nubs.

The small, fine brush bristles deep-clean pores around your nose and the rest of your T-zone more deeply than by using cleanser and water with your hands or the microfiber face washing sponges I recommend. If you have oily or combination skin or are blemish- or acne-prone, adding these silicone facial cleansing brushes will help keep your pores clear and avoid spreading bacteria from your hands or a cleansing cloth.

The small silicone brush bristles are also great for applying your skincare products after washing your face. It allows you to cover more surface area with the same amount of product by spreading it without absorbing it (like your fingers and palms do), which makes your investment in your skincare products go further. It's also a more hygienic way of applying these products to your face.

The section with the larger nubs is great for giving yourself a gentle facial massage, either with cleanser and water immediately after you have used the fine silicone brush bristles to cleanse your pores or with a facial oil, serum, lotion, or cream when you are applying your skincare. A facial massage will increase circulation, giving your skin a more youthful glow.

Silicone Lip Scrubbers / Lip Brushes

One side of the silicone lip scrubber has small, fine brush bristles. The other side has larger, round nubs.

The small, fine silicone brush bristles can be used with your facial cleanser to gently and lightly exfoliate lips and remove dead skin. You can also use them to gently dry brush your lips before applying lip balm.

Keep in mind that the skin covering your lips is extremely thin and delicate. Don't rub hard and don't over-exfoliate!

I also like using this side of the lip brush to deep clean the pores around my nostrils.

The side of the lip brush with the larger, round nubs can be used to massage lips, increasing circulation that will temporarily give you plumper, fuller-looking lips.

Note: Although there is an oval hole in the handle of the lip scrubber for extracting blackheads, I strongly recommend against using it for that purpose. Using a combination of gentle but effective chemical and physical exfoliants is much safer and less likely to damage your skin!

Benefits of Silicone Face and Lip Brushes Recap

• Helps to cleanse pores gently yet effectively.
• Hygienic and antibacterial.
• Perfect for oily, combination, blemish- or acne-prone skin.
• Improves circulation for a more glowing complexion.
• Bonus: Can be used to apply facial oils, serums, lotions, or creams to make your skincare products go further.

A 5-Piece Silicone Face and Lip Brush Set at a Great Price

I bought my silicone face and lip scrubbers on Sephora a while back. The ones I bought, which are hot pink in color, are no longer available (although Sephora does carry other versions). However, I found almost identical ones on Amazon in a 5-piece set that costs less than either the single face brush or lip brush I purchased on Sephora!

For just $6.99 with free Amazon Prime Delivery (at the time of this post's publication), you can get a set of three silicone lip scrubber brushes and two silicone facial cleansing brushes. It's a fantastic deal that lets you keep one set in the bathroom, one set at your skincare or makeup dressing table (if you have one), and an extra lip brush for your purse (to massage and plump your lips before reapplying lip balm, lip gloss or lipstick during the day).

Thoughtful, Affordable Gifts for Beauty and Skincare Lovers

If there is a woman you know who enjoys skincare products and taking good care of her skin, she would probably love to receive a gift set of these silicone face cleansing brushes and lip scrubbers, along with the plush microfiber face-washing puffs and microfiber spa wristbands I reviewed previously and a pair of cushioned terrycloth headbands.

3 Silicone Exfoliating Lip Brushes and 2 Silicone Facial Cleaning Brushes

Vtrem 4 Colors Reusable Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs

8 Pcs Microfiber Face Washing Spa Wristbands

Set of 2 Terry Cloth Spa Headbands for Washing Face

The Best Silicone Face Cleansing Brushes for Better Skin and Smoother Lips by Margaret Schindel

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The Best Reusable Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges for Better Skin

These Inexpensive Face Washing Wristbands Keep Your Arms Dry

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OontZ Ultra — An Affordable, Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker That Sounds Fantastic!

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Holiday Gift Guide: Thoughtful, Affordable Gift Ideas They Will Love

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The Best Bone-Conduction Bluetooth Headphones Review: Shokz OpenRun Pro

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The Best Affordable Programmable Large- and Small-Batch Coffee Maker

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Read More Product Reviews From Our Contributors

Read More Gift Reviews From Our Contributors

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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The Best Reusable Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges for Better Skin

Receiving several compliments on my skin recently was a delightful surprise, something I never expected at age 69! I have been blessed with good genes and have invested in medical-grade skincare products for the past several years, which have made a big difference. But I also have noticed a big improvement in the appearance of my skin over the past few months since I changed the way I cleanse my face, using an enzyme-based facial cleanser and a microfiber facial cleansing sponge.

I purchased my first one at Sephora, but when I went back to purchase a second so I could have one in use and one in the laundry, I was dismayed to discover that Sephora no longer carries it. Fortunately, I found a nearly-identical microfiber plush-covered face-washing puffs on Amazon in a smaller size that I like even better.

Here's my product review of the Vtrem Reusable Makeup Remover Pads Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs I chose.

The Importance of Proper Face Washing for Beautiful Skin

A few years ago, when my formerly peaches-and-cream complexion was showing its age, I decided to upgrade my drugstore and Sephora skincare products and invest in medical-grade skincare products with high concentrations of active ingredients delivering clinically proven superior effectiveness. I have been amazed at the difference these products have made in my complexion.

Until this year, however, I didn't realize how much of a difference simply cleansing the face properly would make in the health and appearance of my skin. If I was working on the computer until the wee hours or came home very late after an evening out, I confess that sometimes I would just swipe my face with makeup remover or micellar water on a cotton pad, brush my teeth and go to bed. But not anymore! 

What does "cleansing the face properly" mean? Removing makeup and/or sunscreen thoroughly, washing the face by massaging with a good, gentle facial cleanser and lukewarm water for a full 30 seconds, and then rinsing thoroughly, both morning and night. This is especially important if you use a mineral-based sunscreen*, as I do.

My skin is clearer and my pores are much less visible since I started washing my face properly a.m. and p.m., no matter how tired I am. Honestly, the difference has been remarkable!

Using a Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponge vs. a Wash Cloth

An equally surprising discovery was the difference it made when I switched from using a washcloth to a soft, microfiber plush-covered face-washing puff.

Like many people, I grew up using a cotton terrycloth facecloth to wash my face. A few years ago, when I was upgrading my skincare products, I switched to a bamboo terry facecloth. The terrycloth texture was supposed to provide light exfoliation, and the bamboo fiber was softer than cotton.

Instead of massaging in my facial cleanser with my wet hands for 30 seconds, as recommended by dermatologists and estheticians, I was putting the cleanser on the wet washcloth and using that. Unfortunately, I finally realized that even using the bamboo terrycloth cloth gently was irritating my skin and that what I had been mistaking as a healthy flush was actually low-level inflammation.

There are much better — and safer — ways to exfoliate the face, and over-exfoliation can cause significant problems on delicate facial skin! So, when I saw the microfiber plush-covered facial cleansing sponges on Sephora, I decided to trade in my bamboo facial washcloth for a plush microfiber face washing puff and use my hands to massage my face with cleanser and water for 30 seconds before removing the lather with the wet microfiber puff and doing a final rinse.

It took only a few days for me to start noticing a difference! My skin looked smoother, I had fewer tiny breakouts and my complexion was more even-toned. I never dreamed that cleansing my face correctly — i.e., thoroughly but gently — twice a day would result in such a noticeable improvement!

How I Use Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges

I wear broadband mineral sunscreen every day, rain or shine, indoors and outdoors to protect from UVA and UVA rays as well as "blue light" from my mobile phone, laptop, TV, and other electronic devices. Sometimes I also wear makeup.

Many people do a "double cleanse," a first cleanse with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve and remove sunscreen and makeup and then a second cleanse with a water-based cleanser to cleanse the skin and pores thoroughly. But I find that using a good micellar water cleanser as the first step works just as well and allows me to get off all my makeup and mineral sunscreen so I can clean my pores gently and thoroughly afterward with just a single cleanse with an enzyme-based facial cleanser and water.

Here's my facial cleansing routine, which I do after pulling back my hair with a comfortable terrycloth spa headband and putting on my favorite microfiber face washing spa wristbands (you can read my detailed product review) to keep my arms dry:

1. Use ISDIN Micellar Solution, 4 in 1 on a couple of cotton pads to remove makeup, if I am wearing any, and sunscreen. It is far and away the most gentle and effective micellar water cleanser I have used, including my former favorite, Bioderma Sensibio, removes even mineral sunscreens easily, and is suitable even for sensitive skin.
   
2. Wet the face and neck area as well as the hands.
3. Dispense a small amount of a gentle yet effective facial cleanser onto one palm, then rub the palms together to create a lather and massage it over the wet face (including the eyes) and neck for at least 30 seconds. Your hands are the gentlest tool for this initial washing step.
   Note: Currently, I use either Osmosis Purify Enzyme Cleanser or Revision Skincare Enzyme Cleanser, which are expensive but worth trying if you have enlarged pores and sensitive skin.
4. Wet the microfiber face washing puff and go over all those areas in small, circular motions to help work in and remove some of the lather, then rinse and squeeze out the puff.
5. Saturate the puff with clean water and wipe/rinse off any remaining lather, then do a final rinse by splashing your face and neck with water.

Features and Benefits of My Favorite Microfiber Face Washing Puffs

The Vtrem Reusable Makeup Remover Pads Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs (Set of 4 Colors) are:

• Soft and gentle on your skin. As I learned from my experiment with bamboo terrycloth facial cleansing cloths, it's important to be very gentle with your skin, especially your facial skin. These hypoallergenic makeup remover pads / facial cleansing sponges are covered with soft, silky microfiber plush fabric that is gentle enough for even sensitive skin.
• Gentle but effective. Even though these face washing puffs are gentle on your skin, they are also effective, allowing the cleanser to get deep into the pores for a thorough cleanse.
• Reusable and hygienic. Because they are reusable, like washcloths, they are environmentally friendly. And because they come in a set of four, you can wash them frequently and still have a fresh one ready to use, so they are also hygienic.
• Well made, durable, and affordable. These facial cleansing sponges will last through 200 washes apiece and come in a set of four, so they will last you for several years. They come in a set of four for just $11.99 at the time of this product review's publication, less than $3 apiece.

Note: The Amazon product image shows a black drawstring pouch for these face washing puffs, but mine did not come with one. However, each facial cleansing sponge in the set of four does arrive in its own clear cellophane envelope.

A Thoughtful, Affordable Gift for a Beauty and Skincare Lover

I think any woman who enjoys makeup or skincare would love to receive a set of these plush microfiber face washing puffs as a gift, either alone or with the microfiber spa wristbands and terry spa headband I mentioned previously. You could even splurge and add a VOLO Hero premium microfiber hair towel / turban (see my product review).

Vtrem 4 Colors Reusable Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs

8 Pcs Microfiber Face Washing Spa Wristbands

Set of 2 Terry Cloth Spa Headbands for Washing Face

VOLO Hero Premium Microfiber Hair Towel

* An Important Note About Wearing Sunscreen

A good face cleansing routine is especially important if you wear and reapply sunscreen every day. As any dermatologist or esthetician will tell you, wearing an effective broadband sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine.

A broadband sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 and preferably with filters that block "blue light" should be worn every day, rain or shine, 365 days a year and reapplied every 2 hours or after swimming. Even though UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn) don't penetrate through car or window glass, UVA rays (the ones that are skin-aging and cause fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, etc.) do pass through. And our electronic devices expose us to blue light that also causes photo-aging!

Please read my review of two of my favorite mineral sunscreen brands to learn more about this important topic: Review of EltaMD® and Colorescience® Mineral-Based Physical Sunscreens.

The Best Reusable Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges for Better Skin by Margaret Schindel

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Reviewing the DeWalt 20v Max Cordless Pruner

Some time ago I bought my first cordless DeWalt tools. They have been reliable and durable for all these years. Imagine my delight when my son gifted me with two more Dewalt tools (a cordless chainsaw and pruner) for Mother's Day. The DeWalt Pruner has been far more useful than I had imagined and I highly recommend it.

DeWalt 20v Max Cordless Pruner

In just a few short months, I have put this pruner to good use in my yard and my woods. The blades are a really good size for trimming woody stems and small branches. I have not noticed any dulling of the blades.

My Pruner was the "tool only" option which did not include the battery or the battery charger. It does include a blade sheath and the wrench/tool that would be useful if I ever need to replace the blades. There are options with the pruner, battery, and battery charger included for folks who would need the set.

Some specifications:

• non-stick coated blades
• blade gap of 1.5 inches (Maximum cut diameter 1.5 inches)
• 60 cut strokes per minute - 1 cut per second
• powered by the DeWalt 20V battery (may or may not be included)
• built in LED light 
• weighs 3 lbs
• covered by warranty (3 year limited warranty, 1 year free service, 90 day money back guarantee - see website for details)

My Thoughts About the DeWalt 20v Max Cordless Pruner

I already mentioned that I like DeWalt brand tools and have had good luck with their durability and ease of use. I have the perception that many cordless tools are not as powerful as gas-powered or corded electric tools. However, my DeWalt circular saw and drill started to change my mind. Yet I was still very surprised the first time I pulled the trigger on the pruner and the blades literally slammed shut. 

Having issues with weak hands ergonomics related to grips and triggers are important to me. Fortunately, the handle seems just right and the trigger pulls easily. In my opinion, it is a plus that your hand must be fully on the tool and engaging what appears to be a safety switch before the pruner blades will shut. I appreciate those types of safety features. Someone may wonder whether the 3 lb weight is prohibitive for someone with weak hands. Yes, the tool feels hefty but no, it's not a problem. Personally, I have far more difficulty squeezing manual pruners (both small hand-held pruners and larger loppers) together than I do holding this DeWalt Pruner up.

I want to also mention that the manual available for download online. The pruner came with a manual but in the event your manual becomes lost or ruined, the online version is easy to find and download. 

This pruner is an excellent tool and would be a perfect investment for yourself or a gift for a landowner.

Related Links:

My review of my DeWalt 20v Max  driver in 2016. That drill is still dependable, problem-free, and is used frequently. 

My video of the day I received my Mother's Day gifts: the DeWalt cordless chainsaw and DeWalt cordless pruner. My first impressions and first cutting.

And a very brief review and update now:

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