Product review - Alverde Macademia Nut and Shea butter body butter/Bloody orange and Elderflower body butter

I don't know about you guys, but I love body butters. I think it's the texture that makes it so likeable for me. So when I saw that Alverde has these two body butters, I said I have to try them out. I bought first the Macademia Nut and Shea butter one which I really liked and then I bought the Bloody orange and Elderflower scent too.

The original name of the Bloody orange and Elderflower body butter is "Körperbutter Blutorange Holunderblüte" and the original name of the Macademia Nut and Shea butter is "Körperbutter Macadamianuss Karitébutter

As you know from my other posts, Two-phase makeup remover, Facial Toner with clay/argilla, Citrus-Sage deodorant, Alverde is a German natural skin care and cosmetic brand.

An interesting article about Whole Foods - The Illusion Of Eating Healthy At Whole Foods

So I just came across this article today and I would like to share it with you guys.

Tell me what you think!

The Illusion Of Eating Healthy At Whole Foods

Product review - UR essential Respiratory Rub

Few weeks ago I got an email from the owner of UR essential (she earned her certificate of Aromatherapy in December of 2005 from the American College of Health Sciences in Portland, Oregon) if I want to try out their handcraft product called 'Respiratory Rub', made with certified organic essential oils. I was more than happy to try it out and write a review about it. Especially because my daughter had a cold and she was coughing as well.

What is this Respiratory Rub exactly?

"Respiratory Rub" immediately goes to work opening all the breathing passage ways. Stimulates the bodys defenses and helps expel congestion whlie destoying pathogens.

Use at the first sign of a cold or respiratory stress (asthma, allergies, OCPD, etc...) Begin by rubbing a small amount in the palm of your hands then cup hands over nose and breathe deeply several times. Next rub onto chest and soles of the feet. That's right the soles of your feet are extremely absorbent. Essential Oil molecules are so tiny they pass thru the skin and into the blood stream, within 20 minutes they are everywhere in the body.

*From the site

Cheap anti-aging treatments

I just read a great article about these cheap, natural wrinkle treatments and I want to share with you guys.

1. Watch your diet: take diatery supplement which contains Vitamin A, C and E
2. Use essential oils: they help retain moisture and they are not expensive. Put 2-3 drops in your moisturizer in the morning and evening and you will see the difference
3. Drink green tea: green tea is full of polyphenols, which has an antioxidant effect and they help to fight against free radicals which can cause destruction in the body
4. Exfoliate your skin: Use an apple and plain yoghurt. Mix them together, appy it on your skin, leave it on for 20 mins and then rinse it off
5. Give yourself a facial massage
6. Get at least 8 hours of sleep: sleeping is important because of the melatonin engineering
7. Drink plenty of water

Source

Femina

Product review - Alverde Facial Toner with clay/argilla

I continue my Alverde series with this amazing facial toner. Sometimes I can't say no to foods which contain sugar (very bad habit, I know) and then I have to pay the price: pimples appear on my forehead. And they are these inflamed pimples. So they hurt too and hard or almost impossible to pop them out.(Traditionally, this zone is regarded as the "sister" to the bladder and digestive system. If you breakout frequently in this area, it might mean that you need to improve your elimination by drinking more water and eating more "whole" foods. Outbreaks on your forehead can be caused also by a toxin build up, usually related to poor digestion.)

So I knew I need something which can actually help to dry them out. Thankfully Alverde has its amazing facial toner with Argilla at DM (Drogerie Markt).

Promotion Code for Essentials! 20% off! Don't miss it!

Essential is a natural and organic skin care, body care, makeup and hair care brand which now offers you a 20% discount on the entire order from now until the end of February.

About the company (from their site):

"Essentials was founded by Jennifer Knox, a wife and mother of two precious sons, who was looking for alternative methods to help relieve symptoms from eczema, lethargy, IBS and alopecia.

Not wanting to rely on steroid creams or a daily regimen of prescription drugs, she set out to change the products she and her family used focusing on natural products full of anti-oxidants from fruits and vegetables. The result- her ailments were replaced with increased energy, clear, healthy skin and an enthusiastic outlook on life.

She wants to share the products she has tested and seen results with others so they too can reach their goals. She also hopes to increase the awareness of natural and organic products while supporting an array of non-profit organizations making a difference."

You only have to use code "BSmart".

Website

Essentials

Product review - Alverde Citrus-Sage deodorant

It's another great product from Alverde. I got this deodorant from my friend for Christmas. It's the citrus-sage scent, but Alverde has it in cranberry and if I'm not mistaken in peach as well. I would love to try the cranberry one.

This product has no synthetic fragrances and colors, no petroleum derived products (parafines, PEG, -propyl-, -alkyl-, etc.), no silicone oils, no genetically modified ingredients, no irradiaton of end product and botanical ingredients and the product is not tested on animals. And the good news is that it has the NaTrue certification logo.

Although it says that the bottle is only 75ml,it looks much bigger. I'm using it for a month now and it's still full. I think it's really economical.

The good news is for vegans: the deodorant has the Vegan seal.:)

Description about the product

It has a strong citrus smell, but I just love it. It brings me back summer. And actually it feels like a body spray. I know it's winter now and it's not the best time to test it's effectiveness, but it keeps me dry. You have to know that this is not an antiperspirant, so you will sweat. But it will help to cover the smell and you won't be stinky. And it absorbs and dries pretty quickly.

Ingredients:

Alcohol, Aqua, Triethyl Citrate, Parfum**, Polygliceryl-10 Laurate, Glycerin, Citrid Acid, Salvia Officinalis Extract*, Limonene**. Linaool**, Geraniol**, Citral**, Farnesol**

* from certified organic agriculture

**from natural essential oils

It is a good product and I recommend it. The price is also wallet friendly.

You can buy it in all European DM drugstore. Alverde website: Alverde

Winter skin care

Winter is here. Whether we like it or not... and I, personally don't like it.

In the winter, there are several factors which have an effect on our skin such as the large temperature fluctuations when we come inside from outside; the drying effect of the heated room and the low humidity of the cold air.

Especially people with dry and sensitive skin suffer around this time. The face is the most exposed to the weather. The skin can dry out very badly and could become very sensitive against many beauty products.

The most effective exfoliating fruits

1. Blueberries

Blueberries have an antioxidant effects, but you can use them as an exfoliant as well. Their acids are not too strong, so if you have a sensitive skin you can use it with no problem. Mash some blueberries and apply them on your skin.

2. Kiwi

It contains high amount of Vitamin C and works great as an exfoliant. You can use it for dry skin. Put the mashed kiwi into a yoghurt. The seeds could be irritating.

Product review: Alverde Naturkosmetik- Two-phase makeup remover

Today I want to introduce a German brand, called Alverde Naturkosmetik which is a natural skin care/cosmetic brand by DM (Drogerie Markt) in Europe. DM is a drug store. And they carry this natural skin care line and also another natural line Weleda. Alverde even has the Natrue logo on their products.

This product has no synthetic fragrances and colors, no petroleum derived products (parafines, PEG, -propyl-, -alkyl-, etc.), no silicone oils, no genetically modified ingredients, no irradiaton of end product and botanical ingredients and the product is not tested on animals.

Alverde Naturkosmetik- Two-phase makeup remover

It's an oil based make-up remover. When you use it it's a little bit foamy and left a sticky feeling, so I have to wash my face after using it. But it's not a big deal, cause if I wear makeup, I always wash my face anyways. I like this green look which caused by CI 75810. (It is a copper derivative of botanically derived color obtained from green plants.) And this 2 greens are so cool in the bottle. The darker green is the lighter consistency, this is why it's sitting on the top and the ligh colored green is heavier. You can see the line where they meet. So you have to shake it before you use it, thus those 2 liquid agents will confluent.

Negative things about the product

I don't like the smell tho. I don't even know how to describe it. And it has another bad thing: it stings the eyes, so you have to be careful with it.

But the product works great! You don't have to rub your eyes, it takes off your makeup very smoothly. I really like it. Overall is a very good makeup remover and I recommend it.

Ingredients:

Aqua, Glycine Soja (Oil)*, Glycerin, Alcohol*, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Lactate, Aloe Barbadensis (Extract), Simmondsia Chinensis (Oil)*, Persea Gratissima (Extract)*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Extract)*, Actinidia Chinensis (Fruit Extract)*, CI 75810, Olea Europaea (Oil)*, Helianthus Annuus (Seed Oil), Sodium Coco Sulfate, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Parfum**, Limonene**, Linalool **

*Ingredients from certified organic agriculture

**Natural essential oils

You can buy it in all European DM drugstore. Alverde website: Alverde

Product review - Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream

Here is another great, natural product from Burt's Bees. And you know what's funny? I have no idea how I got it:) Did I get it from someone as a gift or I purchased it? Good question and I think I will never get the answer, but I'm just glad that I have it.

The firts thing that made me fall in love with this balm is the fresh lemon scent. I just love it. It's pretty strong, but not sickening. You don't even have to put close to your nose and you can smell it.

Fluoride in toothpaste

I was brushing my daughter's teeth with a strawberry flavoured toothpaste, especially for children, when I decided to take a look at the ingredients. The box says it contains Sodium Fluoride "which is in our (Canadian Dental Associtation) opinion, am effective decay preventive agent..." But when I looked at the bottom it also says that prevent swallowing. Well...I'm using this toothpaste for a kid in her mouth, so it obviously could happen. Why is it a problem if the kid swallows the toothpaste by accident? And why every dentist and dental association likes fluoride that much? And what's the reality?

5 makeup brush set from Ecotools

Bamboo 5 piece brush set

I think these 5 brushes are the most important makeup brushes in a makeup kit. Brushes feature bamboo handles, recycled aluminum ferrules and soft, cruelty-free bristles. And it's just 10$.

Set Includes:

• Mineral Powder Brush
• Concealer Brush
• Eye Shading Brush
• Baby Kabuki
• Hemp & Cotton Zip Cosmetic Case

You can purchase it here

Dina's Daily Beauty Tip: Deep Conditioner

Deep Conditioner

Apply 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to your hair. (Avoid the scalp.) Massage in and then cover your hair with shower cap. Leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse it and then shampoo as usual.

Top 12 Skin Rejuvenating Food

Don't spend on money always creams and moisturizers, but pay attention to your diet. Vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids play a major role in making the skin regenerate every day.

Each of the following food has an anti-aging effect.

1. Pomegranate

Pomegranates contains antioxidants such as ellagic acid, polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins, can therefore lower a person's risk of cancer, Alzheimer's and premature aging.

2. Almond

Almond contains vitamin E, vitamin B which contributes to healthy skin and several other vitamin B and also contains antioxidants.

3. Bluberries

Blueberries are rich in fiber as well as vitamins A, C and antioxidants. Eat half a cup every day.

4. Pumpkin

Pumpkins contains lots of anti-oxidant vitamins A and C, as well as zinc and alpha-hydroxy-acids which helps to reduce the signs of aging.

5. Eggs

(Just from organic farms!) Eggs are a good source of high-quality protein which gives you amino acids needed for tissue repair. It also contains vitamin A which prevents acne breakouts and has an influence on cellular reproduction.

6. Avocado

Avocados contain good amount of monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamins (vitamin E, C), phytonutrients and minerals. You can also use it topically. Eat half of an avocado daily.

7. Wild Salmon

(Not farm-raised) Wild Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids -which acts as an antioxidant-, selenium and minerals.

8. Acerola

Acerola, a cherry-like fruit with high antioxidant activity. It is considered to be excellent sources of vitamin C, exceeding the vitamin C concentration of oranges. It is also a good source of other nutrients including B vitamins, calcium, iron, bioflavonoids, phosphorus, malic acid, pantothenic acid, potassium, and magnesium. Eat 1 acerola per day.

9. Tomtoes

Tomatoes are the best source of the anti-aging antioxidant lycopene. But for some reason it is more easily absorbed by your body when it is cooked or processed.

10. Walnuts

Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E. Eat a handful a day.

11. Kiwi

Kiwi has lots of vitamin C and antioxidants which keep skin firm and help prevent wrinkles.

12. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes contain beta-carotene and an antioxidant that fights aging.

Sources:

Suite 101

Hubpages

Livestrong

Blog Pharmacymix

Fitness Magazine

Femina

Liebster Blog Award

I'm going through some big changes in my life right now and these things are hard for me... I'm moving back to my country due to a breakup with my boyfriend after almost 2 years. It happened out of the blue, I didn't expect it, but I have no other choice, but deal with it. Well if love is gone, is gone. After the first shock the second worst thing was that I had to realize that I can't take my dog -who I love so much- with me.

I need to start everything (literally) from the beginning and it's not easy. Find a new job (and work as an esthetician in my country is not really an option right now), find a new place to live, get use to again everything and being single. So I'm not on the top at this moment and for some reason good things are avoiding me lately. But I was so happy when Kelly from Savvy Suburban send me an unexpected msg that she had given me the Liebster Blog Award! Yaay!:) That gilded my evening. Small surprises are the best. Thank you Kelly very much! I'm honored.

Dina's Daily Beauty Tip: Bright Teeth

Bright teeth

Mix 1 tsp baking soda and few drops of hydrogen peroxide until it reaches a toothpaste consistency. Brush your teeth with it, spit and rinse. You can also brush your teeth with toothpase after. Do it once a week.

Dina's Daily Beauty Tip: Dry Chapped Lips

Dry Chapped Lips

Use a soft toothbrush and gently rub your lips in a circular motion. It will exfoliate your lips. When you're done, use your favorite natural lip balm.

Dina's Daily Beauty Tip: Stiff neck

Stiff neck

If you wake up with a pain in your neck or shoulder, then use a hair dryer for a minute or two. Just put up your hair, turn on your hair dryer on warm heat (not hot) and aim it to your neck/shoulder. Hold the hair dryer 10cm away from your neck or you can add a layer of clothing and warm that up.

Dina's Daily Beauty Tip: Thickened skin on sole of the feet

Thickened skin on sole of feet

Mix 3 tbs of sea salt with little milk until you get a thick paste. Soak your feet at least 5 mins in warm water, then rub this paste in your feet then wash it off. It makes your feet soft again.