MyChelle Dermaceuticals

Turning back the hands of time better than Cher

Rewind 10 years and I was blowing out the candles on my 21st birthday cake wishing for an all expense paid face lift when I should have been drinking now legally until I could no longer feel my face. Needless to say I did not appear to be aging well. I couldn’t blame this solely on a poor body image either, my husband often hinted around to it as well while we’d lay in bed together when he should have been whispering sweet nothings into my ear, he was often strumming my face wrinkles like a harp. Back off ladies, this smooth man is all mine.

I thought I was destined for a life of dragging my skin on the ground. I knew a good skin care routine plays an important role in the health and overall appearance (and firmness!) of our skin. But I did have a good routine, I was using good products. Or so I thought until MyChelle Dermaceuticals stepped in to show me just what a good skin care line really looked like. MyChelle provides an extensive line of products ranging from sun protection, lip and problematic skin conditions and everything in between. Better yet, none of MyChelle products contain those words we love to hate: parabens, phthalataes as well as a slew of other potentially harmful and toxic chemicals. Instead they are plant based and several products include organic ingredients and each one is animal cruelty-free. MyChelle fully discloses their list of ingredients and provides a glossary to help decipher any possible foreign ingredients.

That’s great and all but will it stop me from looking like a set of mini-blinds when I smile? Actually, yeah. I dove right in with the Deep Repair Cream [$29]. I found myself caressing my face throughout the day, this velvet-like complexion was new territory to me. I’ve since added the Fabulous Eye Cream [$29], Unscented Revitalizing Night Cream [$39] and Honeydew Cleanser [$10] to my daily routine all with equally impressive results. Because making the switch can be overwhelming and potentially damaging to your wallet as you try to find the right product for you, we recommend starting with the affordable MyChelle Sampler Box [$10] or their individual trial sizes.

Although in the last 10 years I’ve wised up and realized that every crease on my face was well earned, MyChelle showed me which of those lines really deserved to be there. And it’s not nearly as many as I once thought.

- Cara

Arbonne

Pure Intelligence

I like my skin care the way I like most things in my life--clean and pure.  Since I've had combination acne-prone skin for much of my life, I've spent countless hours and dollars searching for just the right clean and pure products to put on my mug.  Many times, if it was clean and pure, it didn't work, or if it worked it wasn't anywhere in the universe of clean and pure.  The rare occasions when I found a natural product that also worked, my wallet screamed and ran away at the first glimpse of the price tag.  Then I discovered Arbonne.  Arbonne's products have the unique distinction of being formulated in Switzerland (along with their impeccable Swiss skin care standards) and manufactured here in the U.S.  All of Arbonne's products have to pass the no fuss test (they call them pure, safe & beneficial skin care standards, but whatever) which is as follows:

1) Botanical based
2) Ph correct (5.5)
3) Tested hypoallergenic
4) Dermatologist tested
5) Never tested on animals
6) Contains NO animal products or by-products
7) Contains NO mineral oil
8) Contains NO dyes or chemical fragrances

Not a bad line up, no?  If I'm going to be slathering something on my face twice a day, letting its ingredients seep into my skin--the biggest organ my body has--I'd like it to pass that no fuss test.  I also have a baby sucking on my face most of the day, so I'd prefer he wasn't lapping up chemicals and dyes, thankyouverymuch.

That's not all--Arbonne is well aware of it's impact on our beautiful planet, and has created product packaging that is made from recyclable materials.  Even their cosmetic compacts are refillable, so when you use up the eye shadow or blush, you just pop it out and pop in a new one.  Arbonne is doing their part to reduce waste, and it's nice to be able to support companies who are thinking of these things, and not passing on these extra costs to us consumers.  Bravo.

The current line for young and hip mamas (don't worry hip mamas who are young at heart, Arbonne has an anti-aging line just for you) is called the Intelligence not-so-basic line.  The focus with the Intelligence line is to have products that are self-adjusting. What this means to you and me, is that no matter your skin type, this line adjusts to YOU.  When I'm dry in the winter and oily in the summer, I can use the same line with confidence that it's working and adjusting to whatever freak out my skin is going through at the moment. This "nano-technology" (i.e. insanely tiny) in skin care actually has Swiss and U.S. patents pending, it's that gangsta.  The line has a cleanser, exfoliating masque, balancer, eye cream (see-ya, feet of the crow) and a moisturizer for day/night.  Arbonne also throws in their uber-popular Skin Conditioning Oil [$18] (the end all, be all of skin healers) for free when you buy the whole Smart Set [$143]. Just 5 steps to supple soft clear skin.  You seriously haven't lived until you've seen your skin this healthy and dewey.  Beware though, you will be highly munch-able and will have a hard time avoiding babies and kids who like to suck on your face.  If that happens, just shout "NEVER test on animals!" and they'll leave you alone.

Win it!
We're giving away a complete Intelligence Smart Set! Just send an email to giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com by midnight February 20 with Smart Skin as your subject.

-Arianne

Tru Kid

Tween Clean

We all want the best for our kids. We try to keep them as safe as possible, making sure they only consume the healthiest of food choices, because we want to know what's going into their bodies. But what about their skin? Did you know that you take in more toxins through your skin (hello, it's your bodies largest organ!) than through food consumption?

Tru Kid makes an all natural skin care line just for kids. Now my 11 year old doesn't have to use my skin care products, or the baby stuff for her siblings. Now she has lotions, lip balm and face wash just for her.  She loves the chemical-free, fruity scents and I don't have to constantly remind her to put on lotion after her shower. The prices are great, between $4 and $10 per product, and I'm happy knowing she's not adding  parabens or carcinogens to her daily routine.

-Jaymi

Burt's Bees

Mind Your Beeswax   

We all know and love Burt’s Bees. It’s a company we can trust with natural baby care products for our little ones, and great lip balms and lotions for the Mamas. But until recently, I had never tried Burt’s Bees for my total skin care routine. 

Burt’s Bees offers 16 new products featuring the fresh Radiance Exfoliating Body Wash [$8] that has now become part of my shower regime. While it does exfoliate, it is not rough on your skin- but rather creamy! I don’t know how they do it! The scent is subtle and clean, as it should be. I’ve noticed instant results- my super soft skin approves! If creamy is not your thing, then try it in the Body Bar [$4]. Glow from head to toe and try out the Radiance collection with the Radiance Kit [$15], filled with 7 new products.

I fancy the simplicity of Burt’s Bees and the fact that you can buy it online or even at the grocery store! Which, as a matter of fact, is where I picked up the Beeswax Moisturizing Day Crème [$12] that is now my new absolute favorite for my face! Burt’s Bees products are never heavy and are always earth friendly, with affordability like no other natural personal care products out there! And they want to keep the industry accountable, setting regulations and standards to keep what we use on our bodies safe and with honest packaging and truthful advertising. Check out how you can support Burt’s Bees Bill For Setting The National Standard. Truly the bee’s knees!

-Steph

Cleanwell

Well is an Understatement.

 

Over the summer, the internet and news media were buzzing with stories regarding children licking their hands after applying alcohol-based hand sanitizer and getting sick enough to the point of hospitalization. This, of course, threw the world’s mama’s and papa’s into a frenzy! We were throwing away all of our alcohol-based hand sanitizer’s and reverting back to the days where we actually had to wash our hands. Don’t get me wrong, I was one of those mama’s too. I went out and bought bottles and bottles of anti-bacterial soap and tossed all of my hand sanitizers that were once so strategically placed all over my house. Being the research guru that I am, I came across a product that sparked my interest, and I think it will definitely spark yours.

 

I scoured the internet high and low, and was able to go straight to the source to get answers to my questions…and there I found Cleanwell. It is an absolutely amazing product, and it was exactly what I was looking for. The Cleanwell products are made with Ingenium, a plant-based, all natural, anti-microbial that is that is actually approved the FDA and EPA in regards to their standards of germ-killing abilities. It even kills E. Coli, Salmonella, and Staph (including that oh-so-scary MRSA) on contact! Better yet, it does not contain any alcohol or harsh chemicals, no pesticides, fertilizers, petrochemicals, or toxic by-products, meaning just one more reason why you can sleep better tonight. All in all, it still kills 99.99% of germs, just as much as it’s alcohol-based counterparts out there on the market, but without the Alcohol.

 

When it comes to convenience, Cleanwell knows how to combine a quality product with convenience, to make every aspect of a mama’s everyday life easier, and more hygienic. From the individual wipes [$12] (which I always carry with me so I can hand them out and pass on the good news regarding Cleanwell to everyone I meet), to the 1 ounce bottles [$3] (great for the diaper bag or purse), to the 6 ounce bottles [$7] (great to keep at the changing table), Cleanwell has got you covered, while keeping you clean all along the way. Recently added to their already astounding line of products is the All-Natural Anti-Bacterial Hand Soap. This mama can’t wait to get her hands on this new product, because it is sure to be a big hit.

 

So don’t worry about throwing out those alcohol-based hand sanitizers, because Cleanwell can give you a million reasons why you should. But seriously, all a mama needs is one, and that is that the safety of her child is at stake, and anything to keep your child safe is reason enough to make this switch.

Win it!

We have a bottle of hand sanitizer (6oz) to get you started on your way to clean. Just send an email to giveaways@mamaspeaks.com by midnight December 19 with Clean as your subject.

 

- Jen

Least Likely 2 Breed

The Joys of Motherhood Measured in Ounces 

You’re pregnant, it really is a joy isn’t it? The beautiful round belly, the glowing skin and hair, the hemorrhoids…what?  Oh they didn’t warn you about that? Me and my big mouth.  Yeah, unfortunately it happens to the best of us even before the pushing starts.  But look on the bright side, without hemorrhoids; we’d have no use for Roid Rage [$6] by Least Likely 2 Breed.  Not just an entertaining name, it’s useful, convenient and a conversational piece all in one!

If you insist you will be spared and make it through pregnancy and birthing hemorrhoid free, then let us direct your attention to the Bad Ass Booty Balm. Your ass might be safe, but your baby’s may need a little extra protection.  Even those with the most durable of flesh will sport some redness on at least one occasion.  The paraben-free, natural ingredients in Bad Ass Booty Balm are reason enough alone to pass all the other diaper ointments lining your general store shelves, but vegan mamas be warned, this one isn’t for you.

Least Likely 2 Breed is strictly mama made, owned and operated.  She calls it like it is, no beating around the bush with fancy names we wouldn’t mind bringing up at the dinner table.  There is enough sugarcoating with parenting. Nursing moms will appreciate Tough Titties Nipple Rub and all moms and dads will get their kicks (on again) with Mother Effer’s Va-J-J Jelly. Each is available in the same compact 2 ounce tins with some of the finest and worry free ingredients.

Hemorrhoids, diaper rash, sore nipples and dry vaginas.  Yup, pretty much sums up motherhood. 

Win it!

If you'd like to give Least Likely 2 Breed goodies a go, just send an email to giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com by midnight December 18 with Breeder as your subject and we'll enter you to win a Bundle O Joy (pictured).

- Cara

Ciao Bella

A Mother-to-be’s body goes through some beautiful changes, as well as some not so lovely stretch marks and aches & pains. Bella B Natural Bodycare by Mother’s Intuition has come to the rescue!

Bella B Natural Bodycare, made of clinically proven ingredients free of petroleum, mineral oils, and parabens, is designed to be gentle for your body and peace of mind.

To prevent stretch marks, Tummy Honey Butter [$20] will sweeten your skin with its thick, non-greasy, oil-based formula that maintains the skin’s moisture and elasticity. And you can take it on the go with the Tummy Honey Stick [$20] For stretch marks that have already made their appearance, apply Tummy Honey Cream [$25] as it includes a unique plant extract proven to fade stretch marks typically 30-50% or more! Go for it all with Body Buzz [$25], proven to even firm skin and reduce cellulite!

Breastfeeding Moms will find comfort with Bella B’s Nipple Nurture Butter [$10] and Nipple Nurture Cleansing Pads [$10] designed to clean nipples before and after breastfeeding. The pads help heal and protect the entire area, while being completely free of animal by-products.

Bella B’s Tummy to Toes body cream [$19] will cool and revitalize tired legs and feet- something not just for pregnant Moms. By the end of a long day, we all need a little tingle in our step and I found this to be just heavenly! 

Be natural with Bella B Natural Bodycare and treat your skin just as you would care for your precious baby’s- with only the best!

Win it!

We're giving away a container of Bella B's Nipple Nurture Cleansing Pads! Just send an email to reviews[at]mamaspeaks.com with Bella B as your subject and answer the following question. What year was Bella B founded?

-Steph

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Skin So Soft and Smelling Sweet

 My daughter has eczema and finding good skin care products for her has proven to be difficult. Noodle & Boo received such a warm welcome in our house – finally a line of scented skin stuffs, my daughter can use. It's safe and gentle enough to be used on kids with even the most sensitive skin. And in addition to their signature sweet cream lotions, they also offer shampoos, soaps and sun care.

My daughter is so proud of her new soft skin she keeps walking around the house saying ”touch my skin”! And she finally feels that putting lotion on is luxurious (something we can all appreciate!) not just something she has to do because of her skin condition.

Seeing my daughter happy and her skin healthy is priceless – but I’m glad to know I can get more of this good stuff at a very reasonable price. Another reason  we love Noodle & Boo? They donate 20% of proceed to children’s charities. This luxury line is making a difference in children’s lives in more ways than one.

-Katja

Yummy For My Poor Tummy

When you're pregnant you just need that little bit of extra pampering. And if you're "over due" like me, you really need all the pampering you can get! Bella Mama has the perfect Full Term Set for all of us. Hot flashes, scratchy tummy, swollen feet, you name it and Bella Mama can help you out!

I don't know what I'd do without my Face and Body Spritzer. Seriously a life savor for the hot flashes, or just hot days. Spritz a little on your arms, legs, face, or anywhere and instantly drop a few degrees. I keep it in my tote never leave the house without it! Mama's, give me a shout if you hear me about the tummy itching? Oh, you know! Your belly grows and with the stretching comes the itching. Bella Mama has the perfect product- Belly Butter. It goes on so smooth and creamy and relieves those irritating itches.

Pregnancy is glamorous huh? Bring on the swollen feet! I know about this one oh, too well! There's nothing better in the evenings when the swelling is at it's worst than Bella Mama's Foot Salts! Soak those tootsies and have that hubby give you a nice foot massage.

And someday, if I ever have this baby, I'll be able to try Bella Mama's Nursing salve, which I can only imagine is as wonderful as the other products! The best part? You can get the whole Full Term Set for an easy $61.50! So incredibly worth it! And each set comes beautifully packaged in a unique Bella Mama gift set!!

-Jaymi

Win it!
We're giving away 5 Bella Bundles! Let us know what gift sets are available from Bella Mama (reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com) by midnight September 09.

Simply Natural and Honestly Pure Skincare

During pregnancy and in those early days with baby most women rely on their doctors and pediatricians for so many things. From help with serious issues to what to put on babies butt, we know they're only a phone call away. And we trust their advice when they recommend creams and lotions for our little one's rashes and sensitive skin.

One of NYC's top docs, Dr. Natalie W Geary was tired of recommending products to her patients that contained parabens, harsh chemicals and steroids. And so she set out to change things. A Pediatrician who integrates natural and ayurvedic principals into a modern pediatric approach, Dr. Geary, began formulating her own products to provide simply natural and honestly pure skincare products that offer daily wellness for the body while they nourish allergic, sensitive and dry skin.

vedaPure was born and these products are PURE luxury! The vedaBaby line [$30-$40 per product] uses herbal remedies to calm and soothe babies sensitive skin. From diaper rash, to eczema to everyday moisturizing you'll find the perfect product for your little one. And since they're organic- free of chemical preservatives, steroids and phthalates used by other skincare lines, you'll have no worries about slathering this stuff on from head to tiny toe.

For us Mama's, there's the equally luxurious vedaMama line [$40-$70]. Whether you're looking to primp and pamper, wipe away stretch marks or sooth sore nipples you'll find there's a scrumptious natural cream for you. These products will make you feel like you've spent the day at a spa even when you're exhausted and can't remember the last time you took a shower.

And let us not forget the men-folk. vedaDude brings all this natural goodness into products for those special guys in our lives.

Win it!
We're giving away a 4 pack of vedaPure products (over $200!!!) Just email your answer to the following question to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight September 6 and win vedaMama Purify and Caress and vedaBaby Soothe and Baby Butt. What does veda mean in Sanskrit?

Squeaky Clean Sans Spit

I swore I would never clean my children's face with spit. I have vivid memories of pulling up in front of school or a friends house in my mom's car, as I tried to escape with a hurried goodbye, she'd reach over and attempt to rub something off my face with her spit moistened finger. Gross. I'd shrink away doomed to spend my day wondering when the last time she'd brushed her teeth had been. I swore I'd never torture my kids this way. And yet, I hate to admit that almost daily I find my self licking my finger to remove a little left over breakfast from my little guys face.

Finally someone's bottled it and slapped a label on. Ok, just kidding. But MomSpit has come to the rescue. Three genius Moms have developed the perfect product to keep your saliva in your mouth where it belongs. MomSpit's line of no-rinse cleanser will eliminate everything from milk mustaches to gas pump grunge. It's not a sanitizer and contains no-alcohol, just a couple of safe ingredients for gentle, moisturizing clean.

MomSpit is available in two scrumptious scents - fig & green tea, and lemon & white tea - along with an unscented version for you sensitive types. The 7oz counter top bottle [$18] is perfect for swabbing off quick messes at home and the 2oz bottle [$9] will fit right in your bag so you can freshen up on the go.  With the gentle, kid safe ingredients, recyclable packaging, cruelty free testing, and absence of human saliva, MomSpit can't be beat.

You can stock up on MomSpit at Pacifier. Just enter the code mamaspeaks for 10% of any purchase. [Valid on regular and sale-priced items. Not valid on furniture, strollers, or gift cards. Offer expires August 30, 2007.]

Win it!
Of course we have some  MomSpit to share! Send your answer to following question to reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com by midnight July 31 for your very own bottle. Who are the Chief Executive Moms who founded MomSpit?

Little Worries With Little Sprout

I’m that mom- the mom that reads labels on everything, especially the lotion and shampoo that I put on my baby. The Original Little Sprout promises naturally pure and gentle hair and body products for baby on up.

Little Sprout offers solutions for cradle cap, dry or sensitive skin, and eczema for sprouts of all shapes, sizes, colors, and ethnicities. Natural styling aids like Curl Calmer [$15.99] and Baby Hair Balm [$15.98] tame the wildest of frizzies and flyaways.

Lavish your sweet pea in Scrumptious Baby Cream [$13.98] and you can’t resist nibbling on those little toes. Worry-free luxury. That’s how it should always be. 

Enter coupon code MamaSpeaks to get 10% off your entire purchase from Little Sprout!

-Steph