Beauty & Tutorials

Discovering the Conture Skin Toning System

An easy, at home device and system for anti-aging results
Filed Under > Beauty & Tutorials

Conture skincare toning system review via waitingonmartha.comConture Face & Neck toning system on Waiting on MarthaConture Kinetic Skin Toning System via waitingonmartha.comBeauty and skincare routine on waitingonmartha.com Kinetic toning system tool by Conture via Waitingonmartha.com Vanity styling and skincare via Waiting on MarthaConture Kinetic Toning System review on waitingonmartha.comConture Kinetic PM night cream on waitingonmartha.com

I’m always intrigued by the latest-and-greatest beauty gadget like the rest.  Give me something that will address my laugh lines, hide those Crow’s Feet and give me that goddess glow and I’m all in.  So you can understand how excited I was to recently try the Conture Skin Toning System.  I was able to get a first peek at the system before it launches today on QVC, 10 pm EST on The Find.  Like all good things that launch on QVC, it will probably sell out quickly, plus with this package price, you’ll enjoy months of treatment rather than one trip to the med spa.  

If you’re not familiar with Conture’s skincare tools and products it’s okay, I wasn’t either until recently.  And trust me, you’re going to want to educate yourself today.  They offer an easy and painless at-home device that claims some pretty impressive anti-aging skincare results, along with solid clinical research to prove it.  

So what is it?  And what does it DO?!  The Conture Skin Toning System is a non-invasive (read: no harsh or scary procedures) device that helps fight signs of aging, while improving your skin’s texture and radiance.  And it didn’t take me long to realize that the magic behind Conture’s Kinetic Skin Toning System is definitely all in its low-frequency vibrations that it sends through your skin.  When I was using it, I could definitely feel it working…almost like a super soft suction all over my face and neck.  Think med-spa style; the Conture Skin Toning Device uses their gentle vacuum technology to first lift the skin, then release the vibrations to stimulate and tone.  

If you’re reading this and you’re as intrigued as I was when I learned about it, get this: Conture has clocked over 250,000 hours of clinical research that backs its claims of the increase in radiance, evenness and firmness.  I was completely hooked when I learned this, hence why I was so quick to give the device a whirl and gush about it on here. 

The anti-aging system is super easy to use, and for good measure, it comes with an AMAZING instruction manual that explains exactly how to use it at home, along with tips when you watch the application tutorial video (I highly suggest watching this first).  When I was using it, I could see what Conture was saying about not overdoing it though too; my skin was tender around the delicate eye area after concentrating on it a little too long. 

But I think you’ll find that this device and product line is definitely worthy of adding to your skincare routine.  Since the goal is to improve and maintain your toned skin, you’ll get the best results by using a great day cream and night cream after using the device, and being consistent with actually using it all.  I’ve tried the Kinetic AM Ignition Lotion and Kinetic PM Recovery Crème which both feel great, but you can also use your own favorite lotion if you’ve got one that you love.  

Okay so now the good news!  As I mentioned above, QVC is launching a promo TODAY with a special package price for everything…the device, the serum, the day cream and night cream for just $179 (!).  Set a reminder on your phone for 10 PM EST on The Find on QVC for this amazing deal, friends, because this is a STEAL.  I just may stock up for later!!!  Truly, MKR

Photography, Kathryn McCrary for Waiting on Martha | This post is in collaboration with Conture, a brand we love and adore.  All opinions are 100% our own. 

A Few Of Our Favorite “Clean” Personal Care Buys

What's on rotation: Brain Dust, Charcoal Cleansers, French Girl Organics & More
Filed Under > Beauty & Tutorials

The Best Clean Beauty Buys including Moon Juice Beauty Dust, Davids Toothpaste Charcoal Cleansers & more via Waiting on Martha

I’m unabashedly obsessed with trying new beauty and personal care products.  And if you’ve been reading the blog and following along, you’ll know that the shift towards clean, nontoxic finds is a primary focus for me. 

Simply put: I want to feel good about the products and ingredients I’m using, the products I’m ingesting, hello, Moon Juice dusts, and the products I’m applying and using every day.  Products like charcoal cleansers, all natural toothpaste that actually works,  and candles that that have intoxicating scents but not toxic fumes.  

And you’ll notice those feelings are spreading to every area of WOM.  For example, we recently welcomed French Girl Organics to the Shoppe; this amazing all natural and vegan brand has gained a cult-like following and can be spotted in Vogue, Goop and the like.  It’s THAT good.

There are a lot of products out there, but the fun part is that I’m constantly discovering new-to-me brands and lines that are proving themselves as contenders (and mainstays) in my daily routine.  So naturally, when I find good ones, I’m here gushing about them to you!  I’m sharing more than a dozen goodies worth buying in the breakdown below; check them out and let me know if you’ve become obsessed with any just like I have.  And of course, leave a comment with any other finds I should add to my list.  Truly, MKR

P.S. Find other clean beauty roundups here and here

P.P.S. We’re welcoming FGO (French Girl Organics) to Waiting On Martha Home with FREE SHIPPING and a FREE mini Rose Lip Scrub with and $50 FGO purchase.  Just enter code FRENCHGIRL at checkout. xo

Petal Candle

Boy Smells, $32

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Petal, a hyper floral concoction by Boy Smells is a must-have; think notes of tree flowers, rose sage and patchouli.  

Why WOM loves it:
Like the rest of Boy Smells’ collection, this candle is safer than your common toxic candle culprits.  The coconut and beeswax blend is poured in a glossy black glass tumbler (which we love to corral makeup brushes later!). It also comes ready-to-gift in a blush pink carton.  

 

 

Premium Natural Toothpaste

Davids, $7.95

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Made in California, this sustainable natural toothpaste safely whitens teeth, removes plaque and freshens breath. Safe, yet effective ingredients include: baking soda, birch xylitol and premium mint oil.

Why WOM loves it:
Toothpaste is a no-brainer when giving your personal care routine a makeover; it’s easy to swap for a nontoxic alternative like this one. It’s fluoride-free, tastes great, and is creamy and non-gritty.  David’s also uses 98% USA ingredients (read: supports our economy with US jobs!). 

Brain Dust

Moon Juice, $35

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This edible “enlightener” has been alchemized to align you with the mighty cosmic flow for great achievement.  It’s used to support superior states of mental clarity, increased memory and better ability to handle stress. It’s great to add to nut milk, coffee, tea, hot or cold water, and can easily blend into a smoothie. Ingredients include: Astragalus, Shilajit, Maca, Lion’s Mane, Rhodiola, Ginkgo and organic Stevia.  If  you don’t take our word for it, take the masses.  Brain Dust is the most highly reviewed & loved of all the dusts.  I’ve been using it for about a week and swear my brain fog is already better!

Why WOM loves it:
We think of this as a true “healing force” made of of raw vegetables, fruits, petals, herbs, roots, nuts, and seaweeds that helps as a daily nourishment to our busy, busy minds.  Something to keep in mind though, out of all the dusts this one might taste the worst on its own.  I’ve read that some people can handle it in their coffee, but I’ve found the only way to mask the taste is in my morning smoothie.

Power Dust

Moon Juice, $35

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Power Dust has been alchemized to support you for peak performance, strong stamina and longevity, while aiding in healthy recovery. This ingestible helps regulate your body’s energy, metabolic function and helps you withstand stress and injury.  It’s great to add to nut milk, coffee, tea, hot or cold water, and can easily blend into a smoothie. Ingredients include: organic Astragalus, Ginseng, organic Eleuthero, organic Schisandra, Rhodiola and organic Stevia.

Why WOM loves it:
It’s a great addition to our healthy living routines, and it works to relieve stress, boost metabolism, tame inflammation and so much more. 

 

Dream Dust

Moon Juice, $35

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If you’re like me then you have the hardest time falling a sleep.  Well I’ve got your solution…Dream Dust, a soothing edible “nightcap” that’s been alchemized to lull you into deep, restorative sleep.  It’s great to add to nut milk, coffee, tea, hot or cold water, and can easily blend into a smoothie. Ingredients include: Zizyphus, organic Schisandra, organic Chamomile, Polygala and organic Stevia. 

Why WOM loves it:
It’s an organic and wild crafted sleep aid, using calming herbs that work gently and effectively. And I promise, it works!

Lumiere Body Oil - Bronzing

French Girl Organics, $40-$60

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French Girl Organics brings us a luxurious bronzing body oil that’s infused with a lightweight blend of nourishing oils, mineral oxides and pigments to moisturize the skin while leaving a subtle, sun-kissed glow. 

Why WOM loves it:
It’s a safe, nontoxic way to get a mid-summer glow any time of the year. The subtle shimmer and lovely scent (jasmine/neroli) is just enough, too,.  Its bottle also happens to be gorgeous; we don’t mind looking at it on our countertops!

Tea Tree & Pumpkin Seed Deodorant

Way of Will, $16

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A safe, nontoxic deodorant (that ACTUALLY WORKS) made up of coconut oil, shea butter and kaolin clay helps absorb sweat and keep the underarm dry and comfortable. Additional ingredients include: tea tree oil (has powerful antibacterial properties to benefit your skin and is an effective all natural deodorizer) and pumpkin seed (helps reduce redness and itching). 

Why WOM loves it:
We’re always on the search for a natural deodorant that really works, and doesn’t make us smell funky…and this one is one of them. It’s free of aluminum compounds, parabens and artificial coloring agents, too.  

Volition Beauty Detoxifying Silt Gelee Mask

Volition Beauty, $54

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This mask works to rebalance skin and draw out impurities, while infusing it with major moisture. The gelée offers the moisture rich consistency, while the black silt brings a cooling, fresh and supple feeling to your skin.

Why WOM loves it: 
I bought this mask when I read on Byrdie Beauty how it was one of the most amazing masks on the market.  And while I’m not sure it’s the most amazing mask I’ve ever used, it is in my weekly rotation and makes my face as soft as a baby’s bottoms. It’s remarkable how moisturizing, yet brightening its effects on the skin are. 

Rose Lip Polish

French Girl Organics, $15

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Say hello to French Girl Organic’s invigorating rose & mint infused sugar scrub.  It’s formulated with nourishing butters to gently remove dry skin, smooth out rough patches and leave lips supple and moisturized. 

Why WOM loves it: 
The polish’s rose/mint scent is utterly divine, and it does the trick when we’re looking to give our lips some much needed TLC all year ’round. It’s also very gentle where other lip scrubs we’ve found to be on the rougher side, so great for sensitive skin!

Under Eye Oil

French Girl Organics, $34

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A gentle, anti-aging oil blend rich in skin-supporting fatty acids and essential oils to ease under-eye inflammation and eliminate fine lines.

Why WOM loves it:
It’s a super gentle product that easily fits into our nighttime routine.  And the gang’s all here with this one: rose hip oil, argan oil, rose geranium oil, evening primrose oil and more.  

Activated Charcoal Face Wash

Luxe Apothecary

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This deep cleansing, detoxifying cleanser is perfect for blemished and acne-prone skin. It’s easily application, subtle and lovely scent, and nice price point make it a team favorite. 

Why WOM loves it:
It’s effective, yet super gentle, too.  The line is also hand-crafted here in Atlanta, and the company helps provide provide soapmaking skills and business training to women in developing nations by donating a portion of each sale to the Lovin’ Soap Project. 

Cafe Noir Polish

French Girl Organics, $38

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This one’s a super moisturizing coffee scrub that’s been formulated with coconut oil, vanilla bean seeds and natural cane sugar to tone and firm the skin.

Why WOM loves it:
It smells like heaven, and exfoliates and moisturizes all in one.  

Lumiere Body Oil

French Girl Organics, $36-$58

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French Girl Organic’s luxurious body oil is formulated with a lightweight blend of nourishing oils and botanical resins to leave skin supple and glowing. Available in 2 scents: Jasmine/Neroli and Rose/Ylang.

Why WOM loves it: 
It’s entirely vegan and organic, and offers a subtle scent and glow after massaging into the skin. It also works wonderfully with a few drops in the bathtub for a nice, long soak! 

'Replica' Jazz Club

Maison Margiela

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A perfectly masculine-yet-feminine scent, Replica Jazz Club is a cult favorite for a reason.  Top notes include: pink pepper, primofiore lemon and neroli oil, with a middle of rum absolute, clary sage oil, java vetiver oil. Lastly, the base hints at tobacco leaf absolute, vanilla bean and styrax resin.

Why WOM loves it: 
It’s a woodsy and earthy scent that’s intriguing and refined. 

Cleansing Wash

French Girl Organics, $18

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This is another French Girl Organics gem; it’s a creamy, non-foaming face and body wash formulated with activated charcoal, green tea extract and soothing aloe and jojoba oil that gently detoxifies and balances the skin.

Why WOM loves it: 
It double as a make-up remover and cleanser, and has 100% plant ingredients that are 100% vegan friendly.  Plus the price point is pretty great!

Hair Revive Oil

French Girl Organics, $38

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This argan-based hair oil infused with the scent of Moroccan rose is a must-try.  It delivers instant shine and deep moisture for long-term hair repair.  I use this at least two times a week, and a little goes a long way with this oil

Why WOM loves it: 
We’re always on the hunt for a hair oil that gives our strands a little TLC. It’s great to apply to towel-dried hair, and works like a charm if you use it as a hot oil treatment, too.  

Volumizing Mascara

Smith & Cult, $28

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A paraben & fragrance free non-toxic mascara with an innovatively-engineered silicone applicator brush that provides each lash with an even dose of creamy, buildable formula to amplify volume and length without caking, crumbling or flaking.

Why WOM loves it:

It lengthens, it doesn’t flake, and it’s free of many major toxins and harsh chemicals you’ll find in many other top mascara brands.  A better question would be, what’s not to like?

Pillow Pie Nail Lacquer

Smith & Cult, $18

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Over the past year I’ve become addicted to all things Smith & Cult.  The colors are GORGEOUS, and it’s free of all the bad stuff (ie. chemicals).  It’s custom-tailored to provide high-performance color and Pillow Pie is my new go-to light pink.

Why WOM loves it:

We’ve tested a lot of nail polishes over the years, and Smith & Cult is simply the best.  Plus it’s free of all your typical nail polish chemicals: Dibutyl phthalate-free; toluene-free; formaldehyde-free; formaldehyde resin-free; camphor-free; ethyl tosylamide-free; xylene-free; triphenyl phosphate-free.  And if you needed another reason, it’s all made right here in the USA.

Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

The Best Green Skincare & Personal Care Products to Try Today

Clean & Effective Alternatives to Put on Your Radar
Filed Under > Beauty & Tutorials

The Best Green Beauty Products, Waiting On Martha

From a kale face wash to a nontoxic deodorant (that actually works) to a soothing face mask and more; I’ve tried more green beauty products than I can count over the past few years.  And from that I’m thrilled to say I’ve really been able to narrow it down to the best green beauty products on the market. 

If you’re thinking about swapping out any of the products in your own daily routine, I’d recommend any/all of the following to start.  I included several great options for things like daily cleansers, face oils, all natural skincare, nontoxic deodorant and clean nail polish that I’ve personally tested and LOVED.

I’ve become a bit obsessed with clean beauty and skincare products of late, but I can also attest to how much more effective they really are.  I’ve been happy to test and sample a ton of popular brands who’ve devoted their lines to products with ingredients you can trust.  That kale face wash (only $36!) is THAT good that I went back for another bottle, I’m telling you.  But like Kat said yesterday, take it slow if you’re overhauling your entire beauty and personal care routine…it can add up fast and it’s more fun to see the direct results of a new favorite, am I right?!  Truly, MKR

Softening Emollient

Sapelo Skincare

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I turn to this Softening Emollient Elixir when my face is feeling super dry (hello, winter).  Its all natural ingredients, including a combination of apricot seed oil, high oleic sunflower seed oil, lock in major moisture…fast.  I can’t get enough of how it makes my skin feel hydrated and dewy. 

Milk & Honey Hydrating Mask

Sapelo Skincare

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This gentle, incredibly healing milk and honey mask is another one of my secrets to my recent glow; its collagen boosting milk peptides help to hydrate, and the honey flushes the pores and keeps my complexion clear. It’s great for sensitive skin (which I most definitely have).  I typically apply it once a week, when I’m in need of a good at-home spa night. 

Seaweed Cleanser

Sapelo Skincare

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This super mild and gentle seaweed cleanser is a great option for an all natural makeup remover.  It works to moisturize, condition and prep the skin for a serum. 

Vitamin D Moisture Mist

One Love Organics

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Once you try this moisture mist, you will be hooked.  It’s part lightweight moisturizer and part toner that can be used for long-lasting hydration.  The list of ingredients include shiitake mushroom (a natural source of Vitamin D which tones my complexion) and alpine rose (rich in antioxidants that fights dryness from the winter or any other of the elements). I love to use the mist before applying serum so that it preps and hydrates the skin for maximum effect, but also whenever my skin needs a quick little reboot throughout the day (especially great when traveling!). 

Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil + Makeup Remover

One Love Organics

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This award-winning organic makeup remover is absolutely one of my must-haves in my routine. Applied directly to your dry face, this serum locks in moisture and effortlessly removes makeup and impurities. It’s super hydrating; the ingredients feel luxurious on the skin and you’ll find yourself finally looking forward to removing your makeup every night once and for all. 

Easy Does It Foaming Cleanser

One Love Organics

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A WOM team favorite for good reason, this gentle everyday cleanser is a showertime staple. Its winning formula includes vegetable glycerin, cold-pressed apple oil and Chilean soap bark to come together as a non-drying, nontoxic foam.  It can be used for the face, body AND hair.  It’s pretty much a miracle product in my book. 

Lavan Shaving Oil

Oui Shave

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This uniquely moisturizing lavender shave oil is great for normal to sensitive, and easily irritated, skin.  Its nourishing blend gives you a ridiculously close shave, while it repairs and hydrates the skin. I’m a big fan of its all-star lineup of ingredients; Vitamins A & C improve skin tone and texture, and Omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9 rejuvenate. 

 

Breathe Again

Young Living via The Well Code

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This convenient ready-to-use roll on blend features four types of Eucalyptus essential oils.  Eucalyptus contains cineole, which has been studied for its potential to support healthy lung function and reduce airway inflammation.  Along with Eucalyptus, the blend includes powerful essential oils: peppermint essential oil, myrtle essential oil and copal essential oil. 

I like to rub Breathe Again straight on my chest or under my nose, finding that it gives me fast relief when I’m stopped up.  If you haven’t dived into the whole essential oil world yet click HERE to find out why we did a few months ago and join us!

Thieves Essential Oil Infused Cough Drops

Young Living via The Well Code

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So thrilled to have an all natural cough drop on hand in case I need the relief.  These cough drops not only bring the cough to stop, they sooth sore throats and boost immunity.  I personally love the flavor too; think minty, spicy yet sweet (but with no artificial sugars or preservatives).  

Nail Polish

Smith & Cult

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Hands down, my favorite all natural nail polish brand: Smith & Cult.  This “8-free” nail polish is formulated without the eight common concerning ingredients of big-brand name polishes: Dibutyl Phthalate, Toluene, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, Xylene, Ethyl Tosylamide and Triphenyl Phosphate. 

They’re simply my favorite thanks to utterly gorgeous shades that don’t chip (I’m talking like 1-2 weeks!). Do yourself a favor and stock up on a few colors of Smith & Cult nail polish

Kale + Green Tea Spinach Age Prevention Cleanser

Youth to the People

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The gang’s all here!  No, this isn’t your favorite smoothie recipe; it’s one of my favorite face cleansers.  This Youth to the People cleanser has antioxidant-rich ingredients work that together to fight free radicals, overall redness and all the junk that hits your skin from the environment every day. It’s light, non-irritating and very, very refreshing. 

Ocean Cleansing Milk

Osea Malibu

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I feel like I’m giving my skin a big hug with this ultra soothing and hydrating cleanser. It’s gentle enough for super sensitive skin and it’s completely fragrance-free, and it has a lineup of all natural ingredients like water lily extract, chamomile essential oil and rosemary essential oil. It has the perfect amount of creaminess as it effortlessly removes impurities (and makeup) without irritating the skin’s surface.  It’s left my skin feeling sooo supple and soft. 

Atmosphere Protection Cream

Osea Malibu

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Here’s a fantastic new-to-me lightweight daily moisturizer from Osea Malibu. It  hydrates and gives your skin a barrier protection against surface damage caused by things like extreme dry climates, wind and air pollution. The ingredients are heavenly; USDA Certified Organic Algae, shea butter and avocado oil.  After applying, your skin feels silky to the touch, and it smells absolutely divine.  I think it helps the overall look of my makeup too – hydration really is key! 

Frankincense Essential Oil

Young Living via The Well Code

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Frankincense essential oil is my new trusty skincare BFF.  It’s great for my acne scars, as well as fighting fine lines and wrinkles to help reduce their appearance and support an overall healthy glow and clear complexion.  I like to apply Frank on my face “neat” without a carrier oil (after spot-testing to see how my skin would react), but you can also mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil.  Another great application is a drop or two in your favorite daily moisturizer for an even Also, add a drop or two of frankincense to your daily moisturizer to boost its performance.

And the best news is that it comes in the Premium Starter Kit ($160 value for 11 oils, a diffuser and more) which is a great deal from the retail price of $96.71 a bottle). 

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Young Living via The Well Code

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Tea tree essential oil is a life-saver when it comes to pesky blemishes and breakouts.  It’s my go-to spot treatment that gets down to the problem STAT, and clears me up naturally.  I’d HIGHLY recommend this oil to anyone looking to add an emergency breakout solution to their beauty regimen.  

Thieves Essential Oil

Young Living via The Well Code

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By now you know of my love affair with Thieves essential oil; it’s a household staple for us now for major immunity support, dozens of nontoxic cleaning applications, as well as aromatherapy. It’s a blend of clove, cinnamon, lemon, eucalyptus and rosemary.

I apply a drop directly on a pesky pimple, only to see it disappear by the next day, leaving no scar. I like to think of it as a bacteria zapper around the house, and I’ve found it works wonders on my skin too. 

Cello Vanilla Rosewood Aluminum-Free Natural Deodorant

No Tox Life

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I’m always on the hunt for a hard-working all natural deodorant.  If you’ve tried any, then you’ll know it’s easier said than done finding a good alternative to the big-name brand stuff you’ve used for years.  I recently tried a sample from No Tox Life and have been really pleased with the subtle fragrance and strength to fight sweat. 

5-in-1 Derma Roller

Derma System

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Only a few months ago I tried derma rolling, and I’ve been so pleasantly surprised with the results.  As someone who’s struggled with acne scars for almost all my life, I appreciate this (affordable) at-home treatment that helps exfoliate and turn over skin cells, regenerating fresh, younger looking skin. 

Featured image, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

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