Sunday, December 25, 2022

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!


Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and very happy and healthy New Year! 🎅 🎄 

See you in 2023! 🥳

Sunday, December 18, 2022

Last Minute Stocking Stuffer and Gift Ideas With Amazon


Every year, the holidays sneak up on me so fast! In November, the holidays seem so far away, the next thing I know Christmas is a week away and I still haven't finished my shopping. This is where Amazon has come in as my saviour. Whether I need packages shipped to my home or directly to a friend or family's home, Amazon has me covered. Amazon Prime offers even faster shipping, often with next-day or 2-day shipping on most products. 

I wanted to share my top picks for him and her this holiday season to help you with your last-minute shopping. Hopefully, it will help you as much as it has helped me. Links to products can be found in the headings for each item.




Light up hat - $15-$20
This light-up toque/hat is such a cool product! It's one of those things that you wonder how you lived without it once you have it. It's also perfect for him or her. It can be used in a multitude of ways; for those with jobs that require hands-free light, for those who like to do outdoor activities like walking or skiing at night, or maybe they are elderly and this light-up hat can light the way so they don't trip on anything. It's really great for anyone. I have personally purchased 3 of these for loved ones and for myself. The light is rechargeable and can be removed so the hat can be washed. It's very affordable and comes in various colours.



Belt Bag- $14 and up
I think most of us have heard of the uber-popular Lululemon Belt Bag. It's not only functional but also very fashionable. Luckily,  there are so many cheaper alternatives to Lulu's bag. And, you don't have to be a fashionista to love this bag! My father has one that he uses daily for when he's out walking, travelling or shopping. I have one as well and love it! I think everyone can use one of these fabulous bags and it doesn't break the bank. There are multiple colours to choose from and it can be worn in multiple ways. It's a definite must-have for everyone these days.


I've been using silk and satin pillowcases for years! They're a nice little luxury that doesn't have to cost a lot, especially if you choose satin ones. They are nice and cooling on the skin, help prevent wrinkles, and protect the hair from damage as well as helping to keep your hairstyle in place longer.



Wireless Earbuds- $20 and up
iPods are great, but these days you don't have to spend a lot of money to get good-quality wireless earbuds. My favourite kind are the ones that have a case that recharges the earbuds. I've been using the same pair for years and they are still going strong. This is a great gift for any age.



This is the perfect gift for anyone who is into health and/or fitness or perhaps they are watching their weight. I have purchased 3 of these so far for myself and my loved ones. This scale is the same one used by my partner's chiropractor, so I trust it. Scales have definitely come a long way as this digital scale is super sensitive and also calculates much more than just your weight. "Healthkeep Weight Body Fat Scale features a full body composition analysis with Body Fat%, BMI, Muscle Mass, Visceral Fat, Metabolic Age, and more - A total of 13 vital measurements on the feelfit app."



Cordless Razor- $35 and up
A digital cordless razor is a perfect gift for any guy looking for a clean, smooth shave. No more fumbling with cords and it can also be used in the shower with a waterproof one, making things quick and easy for him.



I own this sweater and I love it. It's soft, comfy, and cozy but also very fashionable. It can be dressed up or down. It also shows off a part of the body that most of us are pretty comfortable with. It comes in several different colours so there is something for everyone and it's suitable for pretty much any age. 



I purchased this multitool for my partner who is a tool fanatic and he loves it! It's heavy-duty and has a built-in bottle opener, various wrench sizes, various phillip sizes, a screwdriver, a keychain, and more! You can't go wrong with this gift and everyone can use one- it's also a great gift for her!



Carhart makes great quality clothes. My partner is always looking for a good quality long sleeve t-shirt with a front chest pocket and they seem hard to come by. I'm glad that I found this one for him on Amazon. I'm certain he is going to love it! This would be a great gift for any guy in your life. There are a variety of colours to choose from.




Evil Eye Beaded Bracelet- $7 and up (various styles are available)
I've owned this bracelet for probably a decade. It goes with everything ( I wear it daily) and the evil eye is said to protect the wearer from jealousy, misfortune, or injury. I think anyone would love to wear this beautiful bracelet. They even sell some without the rhinestones that men would probably prefer.



If you have a Reece lover in your life, they will love this half-pound cup! It would make a great stocking stuffer or add-on to another gift. There are other forms of this treat as well if this one becomes sold out as it often does.




Speak Out Game- $20 and up
If you are looking for a fun game for every to play, Speak out is a great choice. There are various versions including one for parents and kids. This game will have everyone in stitches, laughing until their bellies hurt, most likely. 




Dyson Airwrap- $700 and up
As someone who is always looking for ways to save money, I never thought I would own the Dyson Airwrap. But, as someone who has dealt with very difficult hair my entire life, I needed to try it. I used to DREAD having to wash my hair because then I had to deal with drying and styling my very difficult hair. Now I don't worry about it, the Dyson basically does my hair for me! I love it and I sure wish it was around decades ago so it could have saved me from so much stress and aggravation. If you know someone who is like me and dreads doing their hair, the Dyson Airwrap could be the answer for them too. It has several attachments to dry and style the hair whether they want a straight style or curled. I also feel that my hair is healthier because of it!




Amazon also has various physical or virtual gift cards for purchase. So if you just don't have time to make it to the store to purchase one, you can order one from Amazon and have it shipped to you or your loved one within days. This has come in very handy for me!


I sure hope these gift ideas have helped you with your last-minute shopping. If you don't have Amazon Prime, you can always try it out for free to see if you like it as Prime usually offers faster shipping than non-Prime orders and they offer a free 30-day trial.


Happy holidays and happy shopping!


This post contains affiliate links.

Sunday, December 11, 2022

Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil Review



Shu Uemura's Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil contains 8 precious oils to cleanse and nourish the skin. It has been a savior for my dehydrated skin, especially during these colder months when my skin becomes even more dry and dehydrated than it normally is.

I love all of the naturally sourced botanical oils in this Product. They are so soothing and great for all skin types including aging, sensitive, and or dehydrated skin types. 

The oil does a fabulous job at removing all of my makeup, as a first cleanse, and even as my only cleanse on some mornings. If I'm not wearing any makeup, I often use it as my only cleanse, especially when my skin is feeling dehydrated. It makes my skin feel so hydrated and soft and my skin isn't left greasy at all. It has a very light scent and I haven't experienced any irritation or breakouts on my reactive skin.

It's such a great way to cleanse the skin as it removes makeup and impurities while hydrating the skin at the same time. It contains camellia oil and squalene oil which are 2 of my all time favourite oils for anti aging and reactive skin types. 

If your skin feels tight at all, I think you will love the relief that this oil brings. I wish I hadn't been so afraid of oils when I was young and had acne. Not only did topical oils help clear up my adult acne when I became older and more informed about the wonderful benefits of oils for acne and sensitive skin, but oils are also wonderful for anti-aging!

Sure, it has a higher price tag but a little goes a long way. So if you want to treat your skin or a loved one's with some precious oils that will pamper your skin and make you feel like you've been transported to a holistic spa for an uber expensive facial, it's definitely worth it. 

About:

With a cashmere-like texture, this legendary facial cleansing oil infused with 8 precious oils renews skin quality, leaving it moisturized and feeling soft and smooth with less visible pores, for an unforgettable cleansing experience that is the ultimate in skin care. Cashmere skin quality: ultime8 complex delivers softer, smoother and moisturized skin for an exquisite makeup finish. The precious essences of 8 exquisite botanical origin oils have been merged together. These oils, carefully sought out from Chinese medicines and beauty oils all over the world, are proven to have the highest skincare efficacy. Utlime8 cleansing oil effortlessly removes all makeup and impurities.

Highly recommend this beautiful oil for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective cleansing oil.

Available on Amazon.ca and Amazon.com 




Free sample was kindly gifted for testing purposes. 

This post contains affiliate links. 

Sunday, November 27, 2022

Elf Power Grip Primer Review


I love that I don't have to spend a lot of money to get great quality beauty products these days. Take Elf's Power Grip Primer for exampleit works as well as any high-end primers that I've tested out.

I've been using it for over a week and it does a great job of keeping my makeup on. Even when I wear some of my inexpensive cream makeup products that usually wear off my face quite quickly, last all day when I use Elf's Power Grip Primer.

It comes in a sleek tube with a convenient pump dispenser. It goes on clear and I only need a little bit. I just apply a little to my cheeks, chin, and forehead. It fills in my pores and helps my makeup last all day. 

 

About:
  • SKIN-SMOOTHING & GRIPPING PRIMER: Your makeup? It’s not going anywhere. Prep skin with this gel-based face primer that has the power to grip your makeup while giving skin a soft-focus effect for a smoother complexion.
  • FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Our Power Grip Primer's formula goes on clear and colorless, making it the ideal makeup application base for all skin types and skin tones.
  • MOISTURIZES WHILE PRIMING: Infused with powerhouse ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid to retain moisture for a plump complexion, this makeup primer moisturizes, preps, and smoothes to perfection, improving the look and feel of your skin.
  • HOW TO USE: Apply evenly to face before makeup using your fingertips to pat into skin. The warmth of your fingers will help the product melt into skin for even application. Allow 30 seconds to set before applying makeup.


I'm so happy that I got the opportunity to try this primer out. It works great at keeping my makeup on all day, it is so affordable, and I love the convenient tube with built-in pump. It is perfect for travel or to throw in your handbag with its sleek and minimal packaging. 

I've had no irritation or breakouts and I love that it is full of skin-loving ingredients like Hyaluronic acid plus Elf is a Cruelty-free brand. 🐰

Purchase Elf's Power Grip Primer in Canada $13 (Current price).

Purchase Elf's Power Grip Primer in USA $8 (Current price).

                                                            

Sample sent for review consideration. #trywithtopbox #elf #freeproduct

Some links are affiliate. Thank you for the support <3

Sunday, November 20, 2022

Iherb Haul | Health, Beauty, Skincare, Supplements + Discount Code


It's been quite a while since I shared an iHerb haul. I've still been shopping there regularly; I just haven't shared in a bit, so I figured it was about time. I've actually been shopping there since 2008 because their prices are so good, shipping is fast, and they usually have all the health products that I'm looking for.

This haul features some products that are new to me and some old favourites. I also have a discount code AGU725 that will save you $$$ whether you are new to iHerb or have previously shopped there.




This is a repurchase for me. It has many health and beauty benefits, so I love to make it a part of my everyday supplement routine. 

"GLA (gamma-Linolenic acid), and linolenic acid are essential, polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are used by most cells in the body to produce soothing prostaglandins (intracellular hormone-like messengers), which help maintain the balance of many functions in the body."





Garden of Life makes some of my favourite supplements. They use raw whole foods in their multivitamin, they are non-GMO and I definitely notice a difference in how I feel when I take them. I can't say that for most multivitamins that I've tried.

"Vitamin Code® 50 & Wiser Women is a comprehensive whole food multi-nutrient formula, specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of women over 50, providing the nourishment the body craves to maintain optimal health and well-being. 
Contains 23 powdered organically grown fruits and vegetables add supporting antioxidants, vitamins and nutrient cofactors."
  • Breast and Thyroid Health
  • Bone Strength
  • Healthy Heart and Blood Pressure††
  • Live Probiotics and Enzymes Support Healthy Digestion





I've had a lot of success with homeopathic remedies for insomnia. I do switch up the homeopathic remedies that I use so my body doesn't get used to one and I won't "prove" a remedy. I love that there aren't any contraindications between homeopathic remedies and medications. *

Uses: May help temporarily relieve:
  • Symptoms of insomnia
  • Occasional sleeplessness
  • Difficulty falling asleep





I'm a total hair product junkie. It's hard NOT to be one when you have very difficult and damaged hair! This product is definitely like an oil despite being called a serum. It is brand new to me and so far I like it. It doesn't weigh my hair down and really does help with frizz, it only takes a few drops. I feel like it is doing good things for my hair and scalp. It seems to have been removed from iHerb's website now. Not sure if that is temporary or not. 

"This intensive oil serum is perfect for those who regularly straighten, perm or heat style their hair, as well as kinky, curly or wavy natural styles. Effectively penetrates to treat the scalp and each hair strand with nutrients, minerals and vitamins, bringing damaged or chemically processed hair back to life. Nutrient-rich Jamaican Black Castor Oil and organic Shea Butter help support healthy growth by strengthening and conditioning hair, increasing its resistance to breakage. Peppermint stimulates the scalp for an invigorating experience."




This eye cream is an old favourite of mine. I've tried many eye creams and serums and I always go back to this one or Olay's Ultimate Eye cream, they both work equally well for my hooded eyes but this one is natural. Although the effect is temporary I'll take it! This large 1oz size lasts for a long time. Most eye creams are only 15ml so this one is twice as much.
  • With Organic Aloe, Arnica and Vitamin K
  • Paraben-Free
  • Fragrance-Free
  • Anti-Aging Hydration Formula
"Inspired by the antioxidant benefits of the exotic goji berry, Goji Berry Eye Cream represents a breakthrough in anti-aging eye care wellness. We combined the nutrient-rich goji berry [Himalayan Lycium Berry] with specially selected moisturizing and health-promoting skin care ingredients including organic aloe, arnica and vitamin K, well-known for reducing swelling around eyes and soothing away puffiness."





I've been purchasing Sierra Bees lip balms for years. They are natural and actually work well at moisturizing my lips. Plus they are super inexpensive. I always stock up when they are on sale and love to gift them to friends and family.
  • Featuring Sustainably Sourced Beeswax, Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil & Vitamin E
  • Formulated to be: USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Cruelty-Free
  • Made with Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable Ingredients
  • No Sulfates, No Preservatives, No Artificial Fragrances & No Animal Testing
  • Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth


These are a repurchase for me. I love having these on hand, not only to remove face masks but to use with my cleanser for gentle exfoliation. They make a great companion to any face cleanser to help remove more makeup, dirt, and debris.

"The Mask Remover Sponges are premium, spa-quality sponges that are designed to quickly wipe away facial masks, mess-free. Made from wood pulp, these sponges boost the effectiveness of masks by gently exfoliating the skin for a smoother, more radiant appearance."



I heard so much about this lip balm that I had to try it! It is quite thick in consistency and does a great job of moisturizing the lips. It's quite long-lasting too and has a subtle hint of colour. This big tube should last quite a while. ELF is a cruelty-free brand. This product is no longer on iHerb's website but it is available on Amazon in Berry, Peach, Rose, and Mint.

"Infused with Jojoba Oil Repairs dry lips Adds a sheer wash of color An intense lip balm treatment that gives you the ultimate hydrated and plumped lips."


I hope you enjoyed seeing my latest iHerb Haul! If you use discount code AGU725 or use this link, you will save money on your entire order!

Happy Shopping!



*Always check with your doctor before implementing new supplements into your routine.




Some links are affiliates. Thank you for the support if you choose to use them.

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

Should you Try These at Home DIY Tik Tok Beauty Trends?


Should you Try These at Home DIY Tik Tok Beauty Trends?

A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Emphatically Says No!

www.lakeshoreplasticsurgery.com

 

According to recent statistics, the viral app Tik Tok has reached over 1 billion monthly users. (Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/09/27/tiktok-reaches-1-billion-monthly-users.html) With several beauty trends going viral on a daily basis, it can be tempting to experiment with these DIY and less expensive solutions than in office cosmetic surgery visits. However, some of these hacks are at best ineffective or downright dangerous.

 

Board-Certified Chicago, Illinois, Plastic Surgeon Dr. Michael Horn breaks down the most popular Tik Tok beauty hacks you should steer clear of.

 

Using Sea Salt Water to Clear Acne

What is it?

 A simple trick for banishing acne once and for all has gained some serious traction on the app. One user drew a few million views and counting for showing her dramatic transformation as a result of the treatment. After trying “everything” to get rid of her adult acne, she says she sprayed a mixture of sea salt and water on her face twice a day, and that apparently achieved what nothing else could. What’s the potential downside: Water directly from the ocean and sea salt water mixed at home are not the same. DIY options are not generally recommended for skin and using an at home remedy could worsen matters as opposed to seeing a dermatologist.

 

What is ‘Face Taping’?

Face Taping is when one uses a piece of tape of any kind, to “freeze” their face while they sleep. The idea is that the tape will keep the muscles in place throughout the night, limiting their motion and therefore minimizing wrinkles. During our sleep, it’s possible we can still make facial expressions and move around as we adjust, using tape is supposed to “keep it in place” preventing wrinkle formation.

 

Is it Safe?

Aside from being unrealistic to use a piece of tape to keep your face in place throughout the night, it can do more harm than good. Using a piece of tape, especially one that is “supposed” to hold your skin down for a whole night can damage the skin barrier when you take it off. This tape isn’t made to be safe on the skin and can cause redness, irritation, and acne breakouts. The adhesive must be incredibly tight and therefore, uncomfortable to use for an extended time to “hold” the muscles still.

 

Sunscreen Contouring

What is it?

The original viral video has a resurgence this past summer. Model Eli Withrow posted a TikTok video where she has sunscreen applied on different parts of her face. She states: “Haters will say it doesn’t work. I’m convinced that if you put a base sunscreen of SPF 30 on, and an SPF 90 on all the spots that you would put highlighter on, the sun will contour your face where you’d put bronzer, and you’ll be naturally snatched all summer.”

 

Pore Vacuuming

What is it?

This is an at-home device that various different companies put out. It gained traction during the pandemic when many people could not visit doctors for elective treatments. The goal of these tools is to extract dirt, debris, and sebum from the skin in order to reduce blackheads and pore congestion.

 

Face-lifting patches

What is it?

‘Face-lifting patches’ are plastic adhesives used to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles overnight. The purpose is to use tape to constrict the muscles in your face and limit their motion to minimize wrinkles. This is an overnight ritual that requires you to sleep with the tape on, keeping you from frowning or making any expressions during your sleep. Wearing it all night is also said to prevent creases caused by sleeping on your front or side.

 

Nasal Tanning Sprays

What is it?

With an unregulated category or product, ingredients are frequently mixed with dangerous chemicals that vary significantly based on the product. Also, inhaling a solution causes it to travel through the mucous membranes, harming internal organs.

You shouldn’t be inhaling substances that haven’t been studied sufficiently, as using medications nasally can affect your sense of smell. They can also potentially have toxic effects on the cilia of the nose, keeping the nose from moving mucus through it normally. This can lead to mucus buildup throughout the nasal cavity, which thickens and forces you to blow out or postnasal drip. Nasal tanning sprays have a range of different ingredients, but most commonly, they contain tyrosine or melanotan as their primary active ingredient. Melanotan is an unregulated synthetic chemical that functions as a hormone and supports melanogenesis, which is the process by which melanin, a black-brown pigment, is produced in the skin.

 

DIY Lip Filler

What is it?

Once again, another pandemic-fueled aesthetic trend. One way people attempt this at home is through at-home kits to inject their own lip filler through tools called Hyaluron pens. These use pressurized air to force filler into lips instead of needles which are used in a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist’s office.



Dr. Michael Horn

Board- Certified Chicago, Illinois Plastic Surgeon

www.lakeshoreplasticsurgery.com

 

With more than 10,000 breast augmentation surgeries performed during his career of more than 23 years, Dr. Horn is known in the Chicago land area as the authority on breast augmentation. His artistic eye, mastery and surgical skill in performing various face and body procedures, his dedication to patients’ safety, combined with his focus on unparalleled care and attention, make him one of the most sought-after surgeons in the Midwest.

 

Dr. Horn earned his medical degree at Loyola University in Chicago. He completed a general surgery residency with the Medical College of Wisconsin, as well as a sub-specialty training in plastic surgery with a second residency at Loyola University. Dr. Michael Horn is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Chicago Society of Plastic Surgeons.

 

Dr. Horn is a frequent lecturer on the subject of plastic surgery and his work has been featured in several professional publications. He frequently attends national meetings to continue developing innovative plastic surgery techniques. His ongoing commitment to patient safety and satisfaction is evident in his personal attention and care to each plastic surgery client. From the initial consultation to the final follow-up exam, Dr. Horn provides compassionate treatment tailored to each individual's specific needs and goals.





Sunday, November 6, 2022

Stocking Stuffer and Holiday Gift Ideas with Heat Holders


Keep your loved ones warm and cozy this winter with @heatholdersworld. 
They have the best stocking stuffers and gifts for everyone on your list! 


From gorgeous throws to thermal tops, bottom, hats, and gloves for men, women and children, there really is something for everyone. 


Their thermal socks are over 7x warmer than basic cotton socks. Offering maximum warmth, thickness, and comfort. They offer a variety of sock including thinner socks and various colours and patterns for the whole family. 


The HeatWeaver hat has a plush fur like thermal lining that maximizes the amount of warm air held close to your body. I love this style with the cable knit and cute pompom. They also offer several other styles for men, women, and children. 

Oversized throw in Moon Rock

The blanket is folded in half here and used as a throw. It could also be opened up and cover the whole bed.

Heat Holders® thermal Oversized Throw comes in 8 different colours. It's made from a luxuriously soft fur-like fleece called HeatWeaver®. It's been developed to be efficient at retaining heat, which is why it has an official tog rating of 1.7 - measurably warmer to the touch. It measures 70 3/4" x  78 3/4" and is only $39.99.


And, not sure who's softer, kitty or the blanket 😻 That was the lump under the blanket!

This blanket in the shade Moon Rock is a beautiful neutral that will match any decor, and really matches my Calico kitty 😆.


The warmth of Heat Holders products is unparalleled and the styles are very current and timeless, really. 🔥 

Check them out at  www.heatholders.com.  They have great customer service and super fast shipping!

Happy shopping!






PR samples provided for review consideration.  All opinions are our own. 

Sunday, October 30, 2022

Goli Nutrition Complete Kids Multivitamin Gummies + Discount Code



Goli Nutrition's Complete Kids Multi Gummies are delicious and nutritious!

As much as we try, getting all the nutrients we need through the foods we eat these days can be challenging. Goli's Kids Multi Gummies are a great addition to help you get a little closer to meeting those needs!

Goli vitamins are of the highest quality and a trusted brand in my household. We started with Goli's Apple Cider Vinegar gummies and never looked back. 


The Kids Multi Gummies are tasty and easy to take!

Ages 2-3, take 1 gummy per day
Ages 4+ , take 2 gummies daily 


Rest assured, these gummies are manufactured in an Allergen free facility in the USA.



These gummies have a delicious fruity taste made from a blend of tart cherry, acai berry, apple, banana, strawberry, amla berry, pomegranate, and goji berry.


Pills and capsules can be challenging to swallow, especially for kids. These tasty gummies make it easy on everyone!


The Kids Gummies are:

Gluten-free 
Non-GMO 
Gelatin-free
Vegan




💥Big Sale 💥

Right now, Goli Nutrition is offering a fabulous discount of 42% off ALL orders and 57% off for first-time subscribers with code healthandbeautygirl . This deal ends tomorrow (October 31st) at 11:59pm EST. Link below... PS. Discount is valid on all items, not just the Kids gummies!

Hurry so you don't miss out on this fabulous deal! I know that my household will be placing our orders as this sale is too good to miss!

Click this link to get this deal:

Note: The Kids Gummies are not available in Canada yet but you can still stock up on their ACV gummies with the same discount!

Stay Healthy! 



#golipartner #golinutrition #health #wellness #prsample 

This post contains PR samples.  All opinions are our own.

Links are affiliate. Thank you for your support.
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