Skincare + the Sea

Hey, guys! I'm popping in quickly today to share a post about skin care. This post is not sponsored, but I was sent some neat skincare items to try and give my real opinions on. I don't normally do review posts anymore, but when I was contacted by a long-time reader (Michelle) about her company's (Spa Technologies) products -- it felt like a good fit.

As you know, I try to do things naturally in many regards in our family. This goes with cleaning supplies for both the home and body, kids, etc. Spa Technologies makes high quality skincare products from organically sourced seaweeds and botanicals. It's been doing so since 1991. The products are also all paraffin and sulfate free, so you can see why this is right up my alley.

What I tried:

Revitalizing Sea Cleanse -- deeply cleans pores and is made of organic Laminaria Algae. Good for oily skin like mine. Smells amazing.

Micro Pearl Exfoliator -- dermabrasion with micro pearl particles, pumice, and bamboo. This was my favorite product of all. You only need to use it a couple times a week. Smells like citrus and peppermint.

Sea Clay Mask -- purifies pores and works against bacterial growth and sebum production. I used this once a week and the essential oils made my skin feel absolutely fresh and cleaned out.

Skin Calming Booster -- has concentrated omegas and liquid oxygen to soothe inflammation and sensitive skin. I also thought it was cool that it has probiotics and seaweed extracts to topically nourish the skin. I put this on before my moisturizer as an extra, well, boost.

pH Purifying Cream -- works to clear pores using salicylic acid and red clay. Also helps fight breakouts, which I'm prone to. Skin has a soft and matte finish that's a nice base for applying makeup (well, the little makeup I do wear).

I don't have dramatic before and after photos for you. That's because honestly, pregnancy is messing up my skin more than normal right now. But the changes I saw while using the products were subtle. I mean that in a good way, though. After using them, I did feel less irritation and my skin just felt really clean and fresh. It was also far less irritated than normal, and I credit that to the ingredients and to the specific formulas I tried which were chosen for me by Michelle.

I am basically giving myself a spa level facial throughout the week!

As you can imagine, with such quality ingredients and good sourcing practices, the products do come with a higher price tag than you might be used to if you shop the drug store on the regular. That's where I have trouble these days. I recognize that you get what you pay for in many regards, but budget constraints are real. I see Spa Technologies products in a luxury category for myself personally.

That said, I could see myself buying these products instead of getting facials at my local spa, which I tend to do twice a year as a gift to myself. It costs hundreds . . . but instead of putting all my eggs in one basket and getting pampered twice a year . . . I could keep the goodness going all the time.

Plus, I have tons of the products left after using them for a couple months. That's the benefit of more concentrated ingredients -- a little of the product goes a long way.

See?

Overall, if you are looking for very naturally sourced skincare products that have a strong history, I recommend browsing around on Spa Technologies. Their laboratory is located in my home state of New York. Their products can be found in resort hotels and spas, medicinal spas, and certain retail boutiques. And also online, of course. If you are interested -- right now they're running a special with 30 percent off their enzyme and AHA perfecting masks.

Happy Wednesday! And thank you to Michelle for introducing me to these products!

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My Skincare Routine

Throughout my entire post-puberty life, I’ve battled with my skin. I had tons of acne in high school that continued through college and then into my twenties. After my pregnancy with Ada, somehow I’ve noticed fewer breakouts. When I do get some zits, they’re usually those huge ones on my jawline. Come to think of it, though, I haven’t had any of those in quite some time.

Regardless, I thought I’d write a quick ditty on my skincare routine because I received some serious compliments yesterday. The kind that made me blush and nervous giggle. Mind you, these comments weren’t from guys looking to flirt or anything like that. The first was the 30-something woman at the hospital lab desk and the second was the checkout lady in her fifties at Wegmans.

After seeing my license, they each said something like:

“You’re almost 32? I thought you were in your early twenties!”

Wow. I mean, just . . . wow.

CLEANSING, ETC.

OK. So, bragging over (but -- c’mon -- I’m struggled with my skin for SO LONG, it’s nice to hear something flattering!), I have made some changes in my skincare routine this year. I’m wondering if it has had any positive impact on my overall complexion. (FYI: My skin is generally combination with more oil on my forehead and nose.)

Here are the products I use on a daily basis. I usually wash my face with the cleanser before bed, followed by the toner and moisturizer.

• Avalon Organics Vit. C Gel Cleanser
• Avalon Organics Vit. C Balancing Toner
• Avalon Organics Vit. C Oil-Free Moisturizer

The line consists of a number of other products, including this Avalon Face Serum I’m thinking of ordering to try out. I noticed a change in the softness and clarity of my skin almost immediately after using all the things in combination. What I like best about these cleaners and lotions besides the results is that they’re 100 percent vegetarian and 70 percent organic. No animal testing either!

EXFOLIATION

After working out in the morning, I usually use St. Ives Apricot Scrub. Now, I’m kind of angry after doing a little research for this post. I’ve been using this scrub since I was a teenager. I’m talking half my life, and it wasn’t tested on animals back then. I haven’t thought to look at the package in ages, but I just uncovered that somewhere along the way, they started testing on animals! I guess after I use up my last bit I’ll try to find a new (sans-microbeads) exfoliator. Grr.

Anyone have a good recommendation?

MAKEUP

Most days, I don’t wear foundation or anything besides moisturizer or sunscreen on my face. (And mascara. Always mascara.) If I’m going to go do something nice or just feel like putting on makeup, I use Too Faced Beauty Balm in vanilla glow.


They don’t test on animals according to this PETA database, so that’s always a bonus. But that’s pretty much it. I’d say I put on BB cream about three or four times a week.

SUNCARE

As far as the sun goes, I try to seek shade as often as possible. I run before 10AM or after 6PM on most days. When we go to the beach, I’m under the umbrella 90 percent of the time. I wear hats otherwise. If I can’t avoid the sun, I usually just slap on some of Ada’s Babyganics Sunscreen SPF 50. It goes on pretty thick and white, but if I rub in in well, it’s not terribly noticeable.


I may check out Lavanila’s Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40. Like Babyganics, it’s mineral-based -- but has less white residue. The only problem is that it’s really expensive and I’ve read it doesn’t handle well with sweat.

I’d love recommendations for a good sport sunblock that is natural, handles loads of sweat, and is cruelty-free.

OTHER STUFF

Otherwise, I just drink lots of water, try to eat loads of fruits + veggies, and get good sleep most nights. I don’t drink any caffeine, I exercise, and -- as I already mentioned -- I do try to stay out of the sun when I can avoid it. I also use the Freeman Dead Sea Minerals Mask (that’s why my face is blue in that first photo) every week or two just for fun. I like how it smells. That’s good enough reason, right?

What’s your skincare routine?

* Links to products above are Amazon Affiliates. Thanks for supporting (never)homemaker. And I genuinely hope you found this post helpful. These are all products I have purchased and tested myself and have used everyday . . . in some cases for over a decade. 

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5-Minute Homemade Deodorant + Review

Over the last several years, I've tried a number of natural deodorants from rolls to sticks to powders and beyond. I decided to go the natural route when I was nursing Ada. Something about having her so close to all the chemicals and scents didn't sit well with me. And after doing a little research, I decided that I didn't want to rub that stuff into my skin anymore either.

I've had OK-ish results with the products I've tried, though some of the sticks actually burned my armpits. No joke. A rash with peeling and burning, which I would have never expected from a natural product. Of all of them, I've had the best success with Lush's powders, including The Greench and The Guv'ner.

I ran out of powder recently + thought: What about making my own? Well, the following "recipe" takes less than 5 minutes to make + uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It also works pretty well, just see my review below!

HOMEMADE COOLING DEODORANT
The essential oils keep your pits smelling fresh + feeling cool.

You need . . . 

• 4 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 2 to 3 tablespoons arrowroot powder*
• 2 to 3 tablespoons baking soda
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Instructions . . .

1. Combine the arrowroot powder and baking soda in a small bowl. If your skin is especially sensitive, consider using only 2 tablespoons of the arrowroot powder and baking soda.
2. Pour in the melted coconut oil and mix until well combined + no lumps.
3. Drop in your essential oils and keep stirring. Then pour into a glass container and store in your refrigerator.
4. To use: Remove from the fridge and break away a little piece. Rub into your armpit and return container to the fridge.

// REVIEW

The recipe above is similar to most all the natural deodorant recipes you will find on the web. The only downfall in my opinion is that you need to keep it in the fridge so it stays firm. I did come across this variation using beeswax that is basically the same, but is stabilized and can stand on your shelf without melting. It's not THAT big a deal to me, and keeping it in the fridge increases its cooling effect.

Now, I'm not going to lie. This deodorant doesn't keep your armpits 100% completely fresh all day long on the hottest days of the year. But it DOES work as well -- if not better -- than the natural products I've bought at the store. No joke -- and especially better than the stick brands I've purchased, as it doesn't irritate my armpits (no burns) and costs way, way less.

I recommend applying it 3 to 4 times a day for the best results. The asterisk next to arrowroot powder above means you can also use cornstarch if you wish. I've read that some people experience yeast infections using cornstarch while others do not -- just be aware of that possibility. My choice to use peppermint extract is my favorite part of the whole thing because it feels -- well -- fantastic.

After a couple weeks of using this deodorant, my armpits are soft, I haven't had any bad skin reactions, and I have a ton of the jar still left over. So, I'd estimate the cost of maybe 2 to 3 months of deodorant at $1 (if that much)! So, it's at least worth a try, especially considering you may have most of these ingredients on hand.

Have you tried natural deodorant -- whether homemade or store-bought? What's your experience? Or what's your favorite recipe? And don't forget to check out all the ways we use castile soap for our home + body cleaning!

Like what you just read? Browse more of our posts + recipes on Pinterest. You can subscribe to the feed of these posts or follow us on Twitter or Facebook to be the first to know what the (never home)makers are up to. And we’ll love you forever!

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Cetaphil Review + Giveaway

I have an ongoing battle with my skin, particularly my face. It started in my teenage years with lots of acne and oil slicks and, much to my dismay, continued into adulthood. During my pregnancy, I was blessed with a balanced, blemish-free complexion. I used nothing but a bar of soap, in fact. And that blessing continued for several months postpartum.

Now I'm dealing with issues again, but they are different than before. A difficult combination of sensitive, dry, oily, and -- again -- acne-prone skin is frustrating to me. I've tried to keep my routine simple and relatively product-free, but it's just not working any more. I was happy when BlogHer offered up an opportunity to review Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream.

This isn't my first experience with Cetaphil brand. Several winters ago, my dermatologist suggested I give the cleanser a try when my skin was particularly acting up (dry and chapped from bitter, cold weather). So, I'm not surprised to learn that Cetaphil products are recommended by more dermatologists than any other brand.

The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser can be used in either one of two ways. On a dry face, I can simply rub some on my skin and then wipe it off with a cloth. (I use it this way when I want to remove makeup.) However, since I don't wear makeup terribly often, I usually opt to use the wet application in the shower. I rub the product onto my wet face -- like I do with most cleaners -- and then rinse with more water.

What I notice with Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is that it doesn't necessarily feel totally rinsed off my face. Of course, this make sense, as the product is designed to not strip the skin of natural protective oils or emollients. In some ways I like this feature -- if I'm having a particularly dry day, for example. It's like an extra layer of protection. But when my skin feels oily, which is half the time, I'd rather it feel totally free of residue.

Combination skin is hard to please, unfortunately.


The cleanser leaves my skin feeling soft and not irritated, though. (I've used many, many different face washes, so I have quite a bit of experience with irritation.) I wouldn't necessarily use it if I am trying to combat zits, but for everyday, basic cleaning -- especially in winter when my face is drier -- it's definitely a good defense.

As far as the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream goes. I first tried it on my face, but it was far too quenching for the oily parts on my nose and forehead. I have extremely dry elbows, though. The instant I put some cream on them, they felt much less like elephant skin. The same goes for my knees.

Overall, I would say that as we head into winter, the season when my skin is by far the most temperamental and dry, Cetaphil products will work well. In the summer months, I need more drying agents and help with blemishes. Yeah. The battle never ends -- but it's good to find ways to fight on all fronts.

Cetaphil brand is offering readers a $3 coupon so you can try it for yourself. Click here to save up to $3.

Also, you can win a $100 Visa Giftcard. Enter by telling me: What’s your winter skin care strategy?

Rules:
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
a) Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post.
b) Tweet (public message) about this promotion, including exactly the
following unique term in your tweet message: #SweepstakesEntry and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post.
c) Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post.
d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to respond, otherwise a new winner will be selected. The Official Rules are available here. This sweepstakes runs from 12/11/12 - 1/7/13. Be sure to visit the Cetaphil brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!

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Foodie Face Cures: Apple Pie Mask

Ever since we got back from camping (and, if we're being honest here, in life in general) my skin has been incredibly broken out. Blame it on genetics or hormones -- whatever. I just want it back to normal, and fast. But I've been trying all these drug store washes, masks, and moisturizers, and none of it seems to be working. In fact, they all seem to make it worse. So, I took some time to research natural ingredients that are good for skin and rushed to the kitchen to mix up a blemish-fighting mask.

What's inside?

• Apple Cider Vinegar: According to Detox for Life, apple cider vinegar has "excellent cleansing properties as a powerful skin detoxifying and purifying agent." I've seen it sited again and again for helping to clear up breakouts. It's even just good on its own as an astringent.
• Banana: I have a ton of bananas on hand at all times. So, naturally I looked it up to see how it might work for skin. I kept getting the result again and again and again for a banana mask for oily skin. I don't know the science, but I read it helps narrow pours. After giving it a try, I'm thinking it works.
• Oats: According to Beauty Tips Hub, "oats can help to deal with multiple skin problems such as acne, pimples, dryness, wrinkles blemishes, dermatitis, shingles, eczema, and excessive tan." I think in this mask, the oats serve to moisturize and make sure the other ingredients don't dry out the skin too terribly much.
• Cinnamon: If you skin is very sensitive, I wouldn't suggest adding this ingredient to the mask -- it may be too strong and cause redness (though it's only temporary). However, across the web, a mixture of cinnamon and honey is touted as a great acne remedy. I added a dash for good measure. I think it made the mask tingly. If nothing else, it made it feel like it was working.

APPLE PIE MASK

What you'll need . . .

• 1/2 banana
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Method . . .

1. Simply put all ingredients in a bowl (or mortar and pestle) and mix well. Use a fork or spoon. Just make sure everything is well incorporated.
2. Then wash your face with a mild soap. Take about 1/3 to 1/2 of the mixture and place it on your face and let sit for between 5 and 10 minutes.
3. I recommend washing the mask off your face in your kitchen sink to avoid clogging your drain (from experience!). Then pat dry with a towel.
4. Store the remaining max in a small container. Refrigerate. Use within three days.

Did it work? Well, in the photo above, I'm in all my no-makeup glory . . . and relatively zit-free. Though there's no super-cure for skin -- acne, specifically, I would say yes, actually, it did improve my issues. After I washed the mask off my face, I noticed my skin was far less oily and less inflamed. Even this morning, my skin remains in better condition. I also have been using the apple cider vinegar as an astringent (I mentioned this earlier). And I really think that's helping.

Stephen laughed at me the whole time when I basically was wearing breakfast on my face. But the apple pie smell helped me ignore him. So, give it a try and let me know what you think! Also, I thought you all might enjoy this other mask I found in my online searching -- a CAT LITTER mask! What's up with THAT? I don't necessarily think I'll be trying that one any time soon.


Do YOU have any home remedies for skin issues? Or any other foodie beauty tricks up your sleeve? I've love to hear about them! Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

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