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Wednesday, October 9, 2024

The Best Affordable Carboxytherapy Mask for Glowing, Youthful Skin

As a skincare enthusiast who looks much younger than her age and is focused on helping mature women achieve radiant, youthful skin, I'm always on the lookout for innovative products that deliver real results. One such product I recently discovered is the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask, which offers a unique approach to revitalizing and oxygenating the skin.

Let’s dive into my detailed review of this terrific mask that is going viral on social media for good reason.

The best affordable carboxy gel mask for smoother, brighter, firmer skin

What Is Carboxytherapy AKA Carboxy Therapy?

Carboxytherapy is a non-surgical cosmetic dermatology treatment that uses either injections or transdermal application to infuse carbon dioxide into the subcutaneous tissue. It can be done as an in-office treatment, or a topical carboxy therapy gel mask can be used at home. Best of all, this treatment involves no downtime and can even be done on a lunch break.

Carboxytherapy oxygenates the area to which it has been applied, improving circulation and lifting, tightening and regenerating the skin for a firmer, more even-toned, more youthful glow.

Carboxytherapy Gel Treatment Masks

I first learned about topical carboxy gel treatment masks from the award-winning licensed aesthetician from whom I buy the professional-grade skincare products in my routine. She has helped transform my skin since I started working with her five years ago and she carries only products with proven clinical studies to back up their claims.

A pilot study found that a carbon dioxide transdermal gel delivered improved microcirculation comparable to that of a subcutaneous carbon dioxide subcutaneous injection.

An in-office carboxytherapy treatment can run around $100–$200 per treatment, way too expensive as an add-on to my skincare routine. The brand of CO2 therapy masks my aesthetician carries costs more than $100 per treatment, also too expensive as an add-on to fit my skincare budget.

So, when a fellow skincare enthusiast highly recommended the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks, which are 1/5 the price of the brand my esthetician carries, I was immediately intrigued.

What Is the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask?

Dr. Medion, a leading Japanese skincare brand, is known for its science-backed approach to skin rejuvenation. The Spaoxy Gel Mask is an oxygen-infusing treatment that promises to give the skin an immediate boost of hydration, brightness, and plumpness. The mask involves mixing a rose-scented gel base with crystals that, when mixed, release oxygen bubbles onto the skin, delivering oxygen deep into the pores.

Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel carboxy gel mask kit

Key Ingredients

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates deeply into the skin and is more effective than high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, plumping the skin by significantly increasing moisture content.

Royal Jelly Extract that helps promote collagen and elastin production for firmness and elasticity.

Coix Lacryma-jobi Ma-yuen Seed Extract to soothe skin, suppress excess oil production, even skin tone and improve texture.

Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract that has antioxidant and skin-soothing properties.

Key Features and Benefits

Oxygen facials have long been popular in high-end spas, and this at-home treatment offers similar benefits at a more accessible price.

Oxygenation and Blood Circulation: The unique feature of this mask is its ability to deliver oxygen to the skin. The oxygenation process is vital for promoting healthy skin cell turnover and boosting circulation. This process helps with faster skin healing, reduces inflammation, and creates a glowing, even-toned complexion.

Hydration Boost: For those with mature skin, hydration is key to maintaining a youthful appearance. The Spaoxy Gel Mask is packed with hydrating ingredients like low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture and leaves skin plumper and smoother.

Brightening and Anti-Aging: Along with oxygen, the mask infuses the skin with antioxidants and brightening agents, helping to even out skin tone and diminish dark spots. The results are especially noticeable in skin that’s dull or sun-damaged.

Firming and Lifting Effect: Over time, the mask helps firm and tone the skin, giving a subtle lifting effect. This is one of the most sought-after benefits for aging skin, as the mask promotes collagen production, which leads to firmer skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Gentle and Soothing: Even though it provides an intense treatment, the mask is gentle enough for sensitive or mature skin. The soothing ingredients help calm redness and irritation, making it suitable for all skin types, including those prone to rosacea or sensitivity.

How to Use the Spaoxy Gel Mask

Using the Spaoxy Gel Mask is simple and straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Start with freshly and thoroughly cleansed skin. I highly recommend the Colorescience Barrier Pro 1-Step Cleanser that removes makeup and even mineral sunscreen gently yet thoroughly without the need for a two-step cleanse. It's a bit spendy, but it does a lot. It eliminates the need for a second cleanse, is fragrance-free, strengthens the skin's protective barrier, supports and balances its microbiome, is gentle enough for even sensitive skin, and leaves your skin feeling smooth and hydrated.

Step 2: Squeeze the contents of the Spaoxy Gel Base packet into the mixing cup that comes with the kit. Pour the contents of the packet of Spaoxy Gel Powder over the gel and stir to mix thoroughly with the spatula provided until white and frothy. This creates the gel mask.

Step 3: Spread the mixture in a thick, even layer over your face (including the neck and chest, if desired). You can also apply the gel carefully to your lips, eyelids and undereye area, if desired, but avoid getting the gel in your eyes.

Step 4: Leave the mask on for 15–30 minutes. (I always leave mine on for 30 minutes.) You’ll notice small bubbles forming as part of the oxygenation process. These bubbles are crucial in delivering oxygen to your skin.

Step 5: Use the spatula to gently remove most of the gel mask, then use a warm, wet wash cloth to remove any residue and rinse well with lukewarm water. Pat your face dry and apply your normal skincare routine.

When to Use This Mask

For the most noticeable results, start with a series of six masks used on consecutive nights, and then use the mask once a week as part of your anti-aging skincare regimen.

You can also use the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask to prepare for a special occasion when you want to look your best and give your skin a fresh, youthful glow.

My Personal Experience

I decided to participate in the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel 6-day challenge and used the mask on six consecutive evenings. Here is my “before” photo:

My skin before using Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks

Here is the “after” photo of my "70-years-young" skin taken on the sixth evening after using the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks for six consecutive nights:

My skin after using Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks for six consecutive nights

The results are far more obvious in person (even my husband noticed the improvements to my skin!), but even in the photos you can see a noticeable difference.

Even after just one use of the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask on the first night, I noticed an immediate improvement in my skin’s texture and hydration levels. The mask has a cooling, soothing effect, which makes it a pleasure to use. My complexion appeared brighter, and my skin felt soft and plump to the touch. With continued use over six consecutive nights, I saw a subtle improvement in firmness, especially around my jawline, and a more even skin tone.

The oxygen bubbles feel like a gentle tingling sensation on the skin, which is a sign that the product is working its magic. I also appreciate how hydrating it is, as dry skin is a common concern for mature women. The mask leaves no residue once it’s washed off, and my skin feels soft, smooth, and refreshed without any tightness or irritation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Easy to use.
Comes with everything you need: the gel base, activating powder, mixing cup, spatula, and directions for use.
Immediate hydration and brightening results.
Oxygenation technology boosts blood circulation and skin health.
Gentle enough for sensitive and mature skin.
Noticeable firming effect with continued use.
Much more affordable than the leading brand or an in-office treatment.

Cons:

One-time-use packaging isn’t the most eco-friendly.

Who Should Use This Mask?

The Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask is perfect for:

Anyone looking for an effective anti-aging treatment that is well priced for the benefits it delivers.

Anyone with dull, dry, or tired-looking skin in need of a quick pick-me-up.

Anyone dealing with uneven skin tone or fine lines.

Anyone looking to replicate a spa-like experience at home.

Final Verdict

If you’re seeking a luxurious, results-driven mask that offers immediate hydration, brightening, and firming effects, the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask is an excellent investment. It's surprisingly affordable for what you get. Although the price may be a bit steep for some people, the results can be well worth it, especially if you’re focused on maintaining youthful, radiant skin. Even if you don’t use it weekly, it can be a worthwhile splurge before a special night out or vacation when you want to look your best.

Best of all, if you use my affiliate link at Shiko Beauty Collective, you can also use my exclusive discount code MARGARET15 to get 15% off your entire purchase, which brings the cost per mask (at the time of this post's publication) down from $20 per mask to just $17 per mask when you buy a box of three, and even less if you buy a box of six.

For those who enjoy indulging in an at-home spa experience or are looking for a way to supercharge their skincare routine, the Spaoxy Gel Mask is a winner. It’s the perfect product for a quick skin refresh before a special occasion, or as part of a weekly self-care ritual to boost skin health over time. And it makes a wonderful gift for someone who loves skincare or just needs a treat of some self-care.

The Best Affordable Carboxytherapy Mask for More Glowing, Youthful Skin by Margaret Schindel

Monday, October 7, 2024

Reviewing Beginner Rock Tumbling Supplies

I have always loved interesting stones and fossils. I always thought polished rocks are gorgeous. But I have never tried polishing (or tumbling) rocks at home, until now. My first batch of tumbled rocks have gone through the cycles and while they aren't as shiny and smooth as the polished rocks found at souvenir shops, they are very pretty. And it was a fun adventure. Had I known that it was this easy, I would have begun long ago.

I had recently begun fossil and rock hunting again because my grandson was sending me photos of interesting rocks. Geodes were my favorite to find as a child in the Midwest. But it doesn't seem that geodes occur naturally where I live now in West Virginia. In my research about local rocks, I was seeing gorgeous photos of polished rocks that people in the rock hounding groups were sharing. I decided to purchase a rock tumbler.

Coincidentally, I learned that a child at work also has a great interest in rocks. I told him that we could learn how to polish rocks together. He is delighted with finding rocks, giving them to me, then having them returned clean and shiny.

I've done this first two batches of polished rocks with a tumbler and with a set of polishing grit. Of course, there are many more products that could be purchased. But I had fun results with just this small amount of items. We are learning that some rocks polish and some do not. Some stay approximately the same size and become shiny and others quickly wear away to nothing or crumble apart. Beginning to identify rocks is becoming a part of this process.

Rock Tumbler

I chose the Central Machine rock tumbler from Harbor Freight Tools. I knew NOTHING about rock tumblers when I went shopping that day. But it turns out that I'm very pleased with my purchase.

Central Machine tumbler from Harbor Freight:

dual drum, 6 lb capacity
low speed and quiet
barrels are rubberized to reduce noise
fan-cooled, V-belt driven
can be used with all types of polish media (ceramic, glass, resins, and nut shells)

You can find rock tumblers on Amazon. There are unknown brands and brands from companies such as National Geographic rock tumblers and kits for children. There are also rock polishers that work by using vibration. I would recommend the National Geographic tumbler and kit for kids, even thought it is a smaller, single tumbler because it comes with everything needed to try tumbling once; including some rough stones. Great for a one-time adventure in a classroom or with a person who isn't sure they are very interested in tumbling rocks. You can find that National Geographic kit here.

One of the reasons that I'm happy about my Central Machine purchase is the dual drums. Tumbling rocks takes a long time; weeks or more. With dual drums I am able to run two sets of rocks at different stages of polishing at the same time.

If you do not have a Harbor Freight store near you, there are many rock tumblers available on Amazon.

Polishing Grit

I chose the grit set because I saw the labels on one of the rock polishing channels that was most helpful to me on youtube.

Polly Plastics rock tumbling kit was the brand she was using so it was the brand I ordered from Amazon. The kit came with 5 separate containers. They included:

Step 1 Coarse grit
Step 2 Medium grit
Step 3 Pre-polish fine grit
Step 4 Final Polish (Aluminum Oxide)
container of 1 1/2 lbs of Ceramic Media (used to cushion and protect the rocks during tumbling at different stages).

While I had watched a variety of tutorials on rock tumbling, and everyone seems to have slightly different preferences, the Polly Plastics kit also comes with step-by-step instructions for their set.

If you have ever wondered about tumbling rocks I hope you give it a try. I wish I would have started my rock tumbling adventures years ago.

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Saturday, October 5, 2024

Old Bay Seasoning Review

A delicious seasoning for seafood, poultry, salads and meats.

Old Bay Seasoning History

Old Bay is a blend of 18 spices, with the main ingredients celery salt, paprika, red & black pepper, and mustard seed. It was invented by a German Jewish refugee, a spicemaker who specialized in making blends for sausages. He invented Old Bay in 1940 after immigrating to Maryland and it became a very popular spice in the Maryland and Chesapeake Bay area.

Brunn founded the Baltimore Spice Company and produced the “Delicious Brand Shrimp and Crab Seasoning” which was later renamed ‘Old Bay’ after a ship line of the Chesapeake Bay. McCormick obtained the rights to this seasoning in 1990.

Old Bay Seasoning Uses

If you are wondering what Old Bay Seasoning is used for, the answer is ‘on anything’.

Image Source: Wikipedia

I was first introduced to Old Bay in the 1990s after moving to Coastal Georgia and discovering the iconic southern dish - the Low Country Boil. This southern treat consists of shrimp, corn-on-the-cob, potatoes and sausage all cooked together and seasoned with Old Bay Seasoning.

When Old Bay Seasoning first came out, in Maryland where it was invented, it was a popular addition to many shrimp and crab dishes.

More than 80 years later, it still has the same great taste and is tasty sprinkled over your favorite seafood dishes, plus poultry dishes, roasted potatoes, burgers, and even French fries.

How Much To Use

As with any spice addition, the amount used is according to individual taste. But for some examples, it is recommended you use approximately 2 tablespoons of Old Bay Seasoning for one pound of shrimp, and ½ cup for a dozen crabs. A typical Low Country Boil also calls for ½ cup of Old Bay. Check out the suggested recipes for steamed shrimp or crabs, or for crab cakes, printed on the can of Old Bay Seasoning, or find many delicious uses for Old Bay in online recipes and on the McCormick Old Bay Recipes site.

Summary

So, for your next seafood dish, or any dish, give Old Bay Seasoning a try and see if you agree that it is the perfect addition that brings a distinctly unique taste experience.

Old Bay Seasoning Related Reviews:

Check out Dawn Rae’s recipe review of Drunken Mussels using Old Bay Seasoning.
Old Bay is one of the seasonings suggested by Sam Monaco for his Air Fryer Tater Tots recipe and also for his Easy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob recipe.

*Old Bay Seasoning Review written by Wednesday Elf

OLD BAY Seasoning, 6 oz

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Thursday, October 3, 2024

Plant Based Ice Cream Review

I had been trying to eat more plant based and began a journey of trying out different types of plant based ice cream. My first attempts on this journey left more to be desired. It just seemed like something was missing, but mostly, the types I tried were rather sweet to me.

I'll give you some background on that. I had been switching my preference for ice tea from sweet to fifty percent sweet, and then to three quarters unsweet and only 1/4 sweet. So I was becoming less inclined to go for anything overly sweet.

For the most part, dairy based ice cream did not seem overly sweet to me. Perhaps that was due to the ratio of fat to sweet. Since there wasn't much if any fat in the plant based ice creams, that might have been part of the reason for the extra taste of sweetness.

The types of the plant based ice creams that I tried, (ones I purchased from grocery stores), had a base of either soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, and cashew milk. The first three plant based milks I tasted seemed very sweet, and they were from different brands. I was about to give up, and then I happened upon cashew milk based ice cream. It was the best. It had good ice cream flavor and wasn't overly sweet.

There weren't many flavors of the cashew milk based ice cream to choose from, but it did do in a pinch. I highly recommend the ones made with cashew milk. Perhaps the fat content in the cashews also helped with the flavor.

On with my ice cream journey:

I was also exploring various vegan type recipes on YouTube and found quite a few on making your own ice cream. I took the basics from what I learned from various recipes and decided just to give a go with the basics only. This is the recipe that I came up with.

Basic Plant Based Ice Cream Recipe

1 part frozen sliced bananas, 1 part fresh or frozen desired fruit, and 1/2 to 3/4 parts of plant based milk

Put all three ingredients in a good performance blender and blend.

It will come out more like soft serve ice cream. If you want it softer, add more of the plant based milk, and less if you want it firmer.

I used my Ninja Auto IQ Kitchen System blender when I am making enough ice cream for two or two plus. Sometimes the portions are larger, lol.

Here are some tips on using the Ninja Auto IQ Kitchen System:

+Plug the unit in once the base is secure on your counter, table. (It has suction feet.)
+Add the ingredients and attach the lid. +Push in the power button. The almost full circle with a vertical line at the top of the circle.
+Then selected the Smoothie button.
+The machine blends and pauses according to it's built in program. It will count down the seconds until it is completely done blending. (I love this part!)
+Almost done. Remove the lid then carefully lift out the blending blade unit. The blades are very sharp. Use a spatula to slide any ice cream into the blender and transport the blending blade to the sink.
+Rinse and then use a bottle brush, I use foam dishwashing liquid to spray it with, and proceed to clean using the bottle brush and the foam cleaner. Do Not Touch the Blades.
+I clean these blades off at this part so that everything comes off more easily. Then it's a breeze. The blender container and the blade assembly can also be washed in the dishwasher. I do it the way I previously described, so that water doesn't set in any of the insides. It's also pretty quick.
+Then, if the mixture is thick enough for ice cream, use a spatula to scrape out the goodness into your bowls or pour the liquid into your cups.

This particular batch turned out to be a milkshake batch! Yum!

The ice cream is fresh and tasty, and not overly sweet unless you add additional sweetener of some kind.

If you want to freeze this ice cream, it will come out really firm. You will need to let it defrost at room temperature for 20-30 minutes or more, depending on how much ice cream you are trying to thaw. I really do prefer enjoying it freshly made.

Does it matter which plant based milk to use?

I have used almond milk or oat milk. Those are my main go to's that I have on hand. I occasionally buy cashew milk if I know I am making mashed potatoes. There is only one store here that carries the cashew milk, so I make it with whatever I happen to have on hand. Any of the plant based milks that I have used have turned out well.

This link will take you to the Ninja Auto IQ Kitchen System on Amazon if you are interested in checking that out. https://amzn.to/4eNBs7n
.

This is the link if you're a one serving kind of person and want to check out the NutriBullet blender. This one has 1200 watts, which is good one to use for blending frozen items. https://amzn.to/4042pzB

If you are interested in checking out the plant based Butterless Pecan Ice Cream that I came up with, you can check out the recipe post card in my CherylsArt store on Zazzle:

Cheryl's Butterless Pecan Ice Cream Recipe
by CherylsArt

It is scrumptious!

Have you had and or made plant based ice cream yet? What did you think? Will you try making your own batch of plant based ice cream?

Cheryl Paton

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Wednesday, September 25, 2024

The Best Facial Toners for More Beautiful, Younger Looking Skin

Facial toners and mists are a crucial, yet sometimes overlooked, part of an effective skincare routine. Far from just a secondary cleansing step, the right toner or mist can address a wide range of skin concerns—hydration, inflammation, redness, acne, and more—by delivering active ingredients that prepare the skin for serums and moisturizers.

With proper use, toners and mists can balance the skin’s pH levels, tighten pores, and enhance the absorption of subsequent skincare products. In this review, I will explore how toners can target specific skin concerns and recommend products that can help treat each issue as part of an at-home anti-aging skincare routine.

I have chosen effective, clinical-grade products that can be ordered online easily without requiring an expensive trip to a dermatologist's or esthetician's office or clinic. As of this post's publication, most cost between $18 and $35, which is a great price range for professional-grade skincare with proven clinical results.

The Best Facial Toners for More Beautiful, Younger-Looking Skin

Using Facial Toners and Mists to Target Specific Skin Issues and Goals: A Detailed Guide

The Role of Toners in Skincare

In skincare, toners act as a bridge between cleansing and moisturizing, ensuring the skin is properly prepped for active treatments, and mists help serums penetrate and keep skin hydrated.

While traditional toners were mainly alcohol-based and often stripping, modern formulas focus on hydration, balancing, and enhancing the skin barrier. Today, dermatologists and estheticians recommend toners and mists with carefully selected active ingredients to address specific skin needs. Let’s dive into the most common skin issues and goals, and how specific toners can help you achieve glowing, healthy skin.

Toners for Hydrating, Firming, and Reducing the Appearance of Fine Lines

As we age, our skin loses its natural moisture and elasticity, leading to dryness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides, marine algae, and botanical extracts are excellent ingredients to look for in toners, as they help to firm the skin, stimulate collagen production, and deeply hydrate.

How They Work:

• Peptides: Short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin, essential for skin firmness. Studies show peptides improve skin barrier function and reduce wrinkles by promoting collagen synthesis.

• Marine Algae: Known for its rich nutrient content, marine algae is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help to hydrate and firm the skin, as well as protect against environmental damage.

• Botanical Extracts: Plants like chamomile, green tea, and ginseng have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe the skin and promote repair.

Product Recommendation: Le Mieux Essence Toner

This peptide-packed toner is formulated with marine algae and botanical extracts, offering a combination of hydration, firming, and anti-aging benefits. It provides essential moisture and nutrients to the skin, helping to improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Regular use results in a more youthful, plump complexion, making this an excellent choice for women over 50 looking to combat visible signs of aging.

Soothing and Calming Toners: Relief for Inflammation, Irritation, Redness, and Rosacea

Sensitive skin conditions such as rosacea, inflammation, or redness require toners that can calm and soothe the skin without causing further irritation. Ingredients such as rose water, hyaluronic acid, and advanced recovery solutions are vital for reducing redness, hydrating the skin, and promoting healing.

How They Work:

• Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it essential for soothing and hydrating inflamed skin. According to clinical studies, hyaluronic acid also aids in skin repair by improving hydration and reducing trans-epidermal water loss.

• Rose Water: Known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties, rose water helps to reduce redness and irritation. It also balances the skin’s pH levels, making it ideal for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.

Product Recommendations:

Le Mieux Iso-Cell Recovery Solution

Perfect for sensitive and irritated skin, this recovery solution offers immediate relief for inflammation and redness. It’s designed to soothe rosacea-prone skin, calm irritation, and provide hydration—making it an ideal choice for those with reactive skin. In fact, it's often used in clinical settings to treat sensitive or compromised skin.

Le Mieux Iso-Rose Hydrating Mist

This hydrating mist offers the calming benefits of rose water while delivering a refreshing burst of hydration. Perfect for post-sun exposure or irritated skin, it cools and calms the skin, reducing redness and promoting healing. It’s gentle enough for daily use and can be applied throughout the day for a cooling effect. It's the perfect partner to the Le Mieux Iso-Cell Recovery Solution.

Exfoliating, Pore-Minimizing, and Brightening Toners

Exfoliating toners are excellent for those dealing with dull skin, large pores, or uneven texture. By removing dead skin cells, these toners reveal brighter, smoother skin. Active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), and probiotics can help resurface the skin, minimize the appearance of pores, and improve overall skin tone.

How They Work:

• AHAs and BHAs: AHAs, like glycolic and lactic acid, exfoliate the surface of the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and brighten the complexion. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deeper into the pores, helping to reduce oiliness and treat acne.

• Probiotics: Known for their skin-balancing properties, probiotics help to maintain a healthy skin microbiome, which can reduce inflammation and protect against environmental stressors.

Product Recommendations:

Glowbiotics MD Probiotic Brightening + Refining Layering Solution

This multi-functional toner combines probiotics with exfoliating ingredients to help brighten, refine, and even out skin tone. Its layered formulation gently exfoliates while supporting a healthy skin barrier. It’s a fantastic choice for mature skin that needs regular exfoliation without irritation.

Replenix Soothing Antioxidant Mist

Great for all skin types and formulated with witch hazel, chamomile extract, and green and white tea, this soothing antioxidant mist helps refine pores, control excess oil, and brighten tired, dull skin. Its powerful antioxidant formula makes it perfect for those looking to boost radiance while minimizing pores and excess shine.

Clarifying and Balancing Toners for Oily Skin

For those with oily skin, using a toner that balances oil production while providing hydration is key. Look for ingredients that clarify the skin without stripping it of essential moisture, such as witch hazel, niacinamide, or salicylic acid.

How They Work:

• Witch Hazel: A natural astringent, witch hazel helps to reduce excess oil, tighten pores, and clarify the skin. Unlike alcohol-based toners, witch hazel soothes while controlling oil production.

• Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is praised for its ability to reduce excess oil production, improve the skin barrier, and minimize pores.

Product Recommendation: Epionce Balancing Toner

Formulated with balancing ingredients, this toner is designed to control oil production while hydrating the skin. It clarifies the complexion, reduces excess shine, and leaves the skin feeling refreshed without the drying effect of harsh toners. It’s ideal for those with oily or combination skin.

Clarifying and Hydrating Toners for Blemish-Prone Skin

Acne-prone skin often needs a delicate balance of clarifying and hydrating ingredients. Harsh toners can over-strip the skin, leading to more oil production and breakouts, so it’s crucial to find a formula that fights acne without causing dryness.

How They Work:

• Salicylic Acid: This BHA is a well-known acne-fighter, helping to clear clogged pores and reduce acne. Its oil-soluble nature allows it to penetrate deeply into pores, dissolving oil and dead skin cells.

• Aloe Vera: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera helps to soothe irritated or inflamed skin while providing light hydration, making it perfect for blemish-prone skin.

Product Recommendation: Epionce Purifying Toner

This purifying toner is designed for blemish-prone skin, helping to clarify clogged pores and reduce breakouts. It provides hydration while keeping acne at bay, making it ideal for those who need both purification and soothing in their skincare routine.

An Underrated Step in Any Skincare Routine

Facial toners are an essential, often underrated part of an effective skincare routine. Whether you’re targeting hydration, brightening, pore-minimizing, or calming irritated skin, there’s a toner specifically designed to address your skin’s needs. By incorporating the right toner into your routine, you can enhance the effectiveness of your other skincare products and enjoy healthier, more radiant skin.

With clinical backing and the right active ingredients, toners like those from Le Mieux, Glowbiotics, Replenix, and Epionce can offer profound benefits for mature, sensitive, or blemish-prone skin. Don’t underestimate the power of these versatile skincare heroes in your routine!

Le Mieux Essence Toner - Serum-Infused Moisturizing Facial Toner Spray with Peptides, Enzymes & Marine Algae, Hyaluronic Face Spray for Sensitive Skin (6 oz / 180 ml)

Le Mieux Iso-Cell Recovery Solution Facial Toner - Soothing Face Mist, Hydrating Amino Acid & Mineral Spray to Help Calm Post-Treatment Skin, No Parabens or Sulfates (6 oz / 180 ml)

Le Mieux Skincare Iso Rose Hydrating Mist - Hydrating Face Mist with Minerals & Bulgarian Rose Water - Soothing Facial Spray for Calming & Hydrating Irritated, Dry Skin (4 oz / 120 ml)

Glowbiotics Probiotic Brightening + Refining Layering Solution: Advanced Tone Correction, Enhances Natural Collagen, With Hyaluronic, Azelaic & Lactic Acids, 3.3 Fl Oz

Replenix Soothing Antioxidant Mist, Calming Facial Spray, Dermatologist Developed for All Skin Types, Oil Free, Paraban Free, Non-comedogenic (2.7 oz)

Epionce Balancing Toner - Facial Toner, Dirt & Makeup Remover Toner for Face, Gentle Face Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Body & Face Mist, Facial Spray

Epionce Purifying Toner - Facial Toner, Dirt & Makeup Remover Toner for Face, Gentle Face Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Body & Face Mist, Facial Spray

Have you used a clinical-grade facial toner yet? If so, what skin issues are you targeting and what differences have you seen? Let me know your experience in the comments below.

The Best Facial Toners for More Beautiful, Younger Looking Skin by Margaret Schindel

Monday, September 23, 2024

Portable Tire Inflator - Reviewed

Whether you're on a road trip or just want peace of mind for daily commuting, this compact portable tire inflator is designed to provide reliability and ease of use.

We were on a road trip a couple of times and our tire pressure light came on indicating low tire pressure.

Both times we had to exit the highway to find a gas station with an air pump. Then, when you find one, you must pay for the air. It's not the cost it is just the total inconvenience of it all.

I began to search for a portable tire inflator and found this ZGZUXO portable tire inflator on Amazon. It's affordable, compact, convenient, and capable.

Portable Tire Inflator Features:

Compact and lightweight: Easy to store in the glove compartment or the trunk.
Digital Display and auto-shutoff: Prevent over-inflation to ensure accuracy.
Multi-use attachments: For cars, bicycles, sports equipment, and more.
LED light for night use: Handy for emergencies in low-light conditions.
Affordable: Great value for the price.
Everything fits into a soft cloth bag for easy storage.

It will inflate a car tire from 0 to 35 PSI in under 5 minutes. This tire inflator is not recommended for heavy-duty vehicles. It does need to be powered through your car's 12V outlet. But not to worry it comes with a 15-foot cord for this. You can find rechargeable tire inflators but, they are much more expensive. This little tire inflator is more than capable, and affordable. I'm delighted with my purchase.

ZGZUXO Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor, DC 12V Small Air Pump for Car Tires, 150PSI Electric Tire Pump, Auto Portable Tire Inflator for Car with Digital Pressure Gauge, LED Light

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Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Aging and Safety in the Home ~ A Product Review

Aging gracefully is much easier if you have the tools to make aging easier. There is no doubt that we age quietly and sometimes don't notice the changes until an accident happens. Then we shake our heads and wonder what the heck happened and how it happened so quickly.

Now if you've been looking after an aging relative for a while you might notice those changes in them quicker than you realize those changes are also happening to you too! Your focus is different when there is an elderly person in your own home.

Somehow we focus all our efforts on making them comfortable and safe. We forget about making ourselves comfortable and safe too!

When my mother was living with us, we invested in night lights so that she would be able to get to the washroom and back to her bedroom without any troubles. They worked great and we were very happy that it solved a problem that we had not thought of before. She loved that they stayed on all the time as well. So long as she was happy we were happy too!

Now, my mother is no longer living with us(she is in long term care), we are the ones that seem to be aging quicker. Or it could be that we are noticing the changes when we don't have anyone else to concentrate our efforts on.

The point is that we are in need of extra help in the night time now as well. Our needs are a little different than my mother's were. Our aging journey seems to be more focused on extra mobility needs. So while we still have the night lights in place, we needed some light that would actually illuminate the surrounding area so that we could get our bearings easier.

My husband has a problem with balance and waking in the middle of the night for a potty break was very difficult for him. Putting his feet on the floor was not enough. Balance can be helped with visual aids. Hence we were on the look out for something that would illuminate without waking the partner still sleeping. It had to illuminate enough so that walls and other obstacles would be clear and yet not such a glaring light to interrupt his sleep pattern either.

We found a night light that is rechargeable, motion detecting, and cordless! Recharging is done with a USB cable and each time it's charged it last a few weeks (3-4) depending on how often it is needed through the night.

We bought a two pack of these motion detecting lights, but I see now that they are available in a 3 pack as well. For less than $20.00 you are able to give yourself and your other half some well needed peace of mind and a clear path to that washroom. I love that the light only stays on for a few minutes and then goes off. Unlike nightlights that are plugged into the wall that stay on all the time.

Peace of mind when you are aging is priceless and there are many tools to make the transition easier. This in my books is one of them!

The picture shows you what the light looks like off and on. We have them mounted on the wall above the doorway to the washroom so that both the floor in front and the floor of the bathroom are well illuminated when needed. The light is not so glaring that it wakes your brain up. So a quick trip the loo and back into bed, close your eyes and continue sleeping. It is working very well for us and I'm sure it would work for you too.

Pleasant dreams everyone and may you never trip on your way to the loo at night.

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