Tropical Traditions Raw Organic Honey Review

I have had the wonderful opportunity of writing several Tropical Traditions reviews. By  now, it should be no surprise that Tropical Traditions has quickly become one of my favorite companies to rely on for organic foods, all-natural ingredients and healthy recipes. Every time I receive one of their new products, I tell myself that they couldn’t possibly have anything better. Once I received the Tropical Traditions Organic Raw Honey, my opinion instantly changed.

Tropical Traditions sources its organic honey from hives in the wild frontier areas of Canada. Most honeys on the market are pasteurized in high heat and filtered, removing many of the beneficial nutrients and enzymes.Tropical Traditions Raw Organic Honey is certified organic, contains live yeast and enzymes. It also contains pollen because it has not been filtered or processed

I’m wasn’t a huge fan of honey. I’m the girl who uses honey once a year in a hot cup of chamomile tea to help cure a sore throat. But, I have heard so many people discuss the health benefits of the Raw Food Diet. So, when I found out Tropical Traditions offers Raw Honey, I knew I had to find out what all of the talk was about.

Crystallized honey preserves natural goodness and doesn’t drip. The more rapidly honey crystallizes the finer the texture will be. It will also turn harder over time as it crystallizes. Truly raw honeys do not deteriorate with age, but like fine wines, continue to age and develop into more complex tastes.

My Raw Organic Honey arrived very quickly, as all of my Tropical Traditions products have. The first thing I noticed was the wide-mouth jar – perfect for scooping! The color is very different than traditional non-organic honey. Rather than a golden color, this honey is a rich, creamy, off-white shade, similar to the color of white chocolate. Yum!

Because it is unpasteurized, unprocessed, unheated, 100% Raw and USDA certified organic, I was expecting a thick, grainy texture. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case. There is a slightly thicker texture than regular honey. It is smooth like peanut butter and not at all grainy. I liked the fact that it is still full of flavor but much more nutritional. Tropical Traditions Raw Honey tastes great on so many foods- bagels, cookies, tea, vinaigrettes and so much more. Tropical Traditions has a vast collection of recipes; I recently found a recipe for Strawberry Cream Pie (Gluten Free and Dairy Free) and cannot wait to try it! Their raw honey to be the best honey I have ever tasted. I’m always looking for new foods to pair my honey with!

PURCHASE INFORMATION: A 17.6 oz. glass jar retails for $17.50. ON SALE for just $8.75 now through Sunday, August, 22nd. Also available in a 15.lb pail for $160.00. Shop for raw honey and other organic food items online at www.tropicaltraditions.com.

WIN IT: Enter my Tropical Traditions Giveaway for your chance to win a 17.6 oz jar of Organic Raw Honey. ENTER HERE.

Disclaimer: The Raw Organic Honey was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation for my review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

Don’t Miss These Great Giveaways!

You want youthful skin don’t you? Of course you do, who wouldn’t?! Juice Beauty’s Organic skincare products will keep you looking young and in just minutes a week!

Enter to win a jar of Green Apple Peel by Juice Beauty. But, you better hurry! This giveaway ends in just two days on July 31, 2010. ENTER HERE

Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Review & Giveaway

When you’re a teenager, you can’t wait to “grow up”. Once you do grow a few years older, you are wishing you could turn back time. Just the other day, I ran into the store to purchase a bottle of wine.The cashier didn’t ask to see my drivers license. She even declined to look at it even after I pleaded to show it to her. I wanted to cry at the checkout counter and may have shed a few tears on the drive home. It was at that time, I realized I don’t look as young as I thought I did. Luckily, I discovered a great line of organic skincare products known as Juice Beauty.

Juice Beauty carries a full line of organic skin care products as well as organic beauty products for women and men of all skin types. Juice Beauty uses certified organic ingredients including a 100% organic juice base. Their products contain no pesticides, parabens, petroleum or propylene glycol derivatives, no harsh surfactants or sulfates, no artificial colors, phthalates or synthetic fragrances.

From the Green Apple Collection, I was sent the Green Apple Peel Sensitive. Designed for sensitive skin, the Green Apple Peel Sensitive is made from a hydroxy acid complex of certified organic apple, lemon, grape juices and raw cane sugar.  

Designed for sensitive skin, this refining hydroxy acid complex of certified organic apple, lemon, grape juices and raw cane sugar exfoliates and brightens for visibly improved skin tone and texture.

When I opened the jar of Green Apple Peel, my senses were immediately awakened by the delightful apple scent. The apple scent is light and fresh as if someone puréed ripe apples and added them to the Juice Beauty jar. The fragrance smells delicious enough to eat! It resembles actual fruit rather than overpowering added fragrances that I experience with other products.

Fortunately, I was able to control my urge to digest my new facial peel and proceeded with the application. The instructions suggest applying a generous layer to a cleansed face and neck for up to 10 minutes before rinsing. The peel glides on smoothly and is non-greasy. This peel is absorbed by the skin. It’s not a peel in which you apply and literally peel off. It was easy to apply and just as easy to remove.

After the first use, I noticed how incredibly soft and smooth my skin felt. After several uses, I have already began to notice an improvement in my skin’s texture. My face doesn’t look or feel as dry as it did prior to using this wonderful treatment. My skin definitely feels hydrated and nourished.

I found the Green Apple Peel Sensitive to be very gentle on my skin. I didn’t experience any redness or tingling which is a great benefit since I usually have a hard time finding products that are truly “sensitive”. In the summer time, my face tends to break out more. I haven’t had a breakout since using my peel, and my pores have significantly reduced in size!

Once I run out of my sample size, I am definitely buying the full size peel. I am excited to see the improvements in my skin over continuous use. If you suffer from Keratosis Pilaris, or KP, you may want to give the Green Apple Peel Sensitive a try. While I haven’t used this to treat my KP, I have read reviews suggesting it has helped reduce the bumps caused by KP. Once I have my full size jar, I will put it to the “KP test” and give an updated review.

BUY IT: Shop online at Juice Beauty or find a local retailer.
Cost for 20z is $39.00 or .25oz for $5.00

WIN IT: Juice Beauty has generously offered to provide one lucky reader with a jar of Green Apple Peel Sensitive. Click here to enter my Juice Beauty Giveaway.

Disclaimer: The .25oz jar of Green Apple Peel Sensitive was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation for my review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

10 Uses For Coconut Oil

Packed full of fatty acids,extra virgin organic coconut oil is coveted all over the world for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties. Coconut oil is great for cooking and baking. It works wonders for dry, flaky skin, and some even claim that coconut oil has helped them achieve significant weight loss. What else can coconut oil be used for?

10 Ways To Use It

Moisturizer – Massage into hands, legs, elbows, feet ( even calluses). The coconut oil’s moisture locking lipids will make the skin feel ultra soft and provide a subtle natural glow.

Nail Strengthener – Work into nails to create a hydrating seal that will help prevent brittleness. Also works miracles to repair painful cuticles.

Facial Scrub – To restore radiance, add a spoonful of sugar to a dollop of oil and massage into your face, then rinse.

Acne Treatment – When dabbed on breakouts, the oil’s lauric acid will gently heal acne without dehydrating the skin.

Anti-Itch Cream – Swipe a thin film of oil over bug bites or rashes. The coconut oil’s anti-inflammatory agents will quickly soothe the itch and discomfort.

Stomach Soother – Dissolve a spoonful in a cup of hot tea and sip. The oil’s antimicrobial acids will help ward off indigestion-causing bacteria and parasites.

Lubricant – Yep, this is exactly what you think it is. Add a drop or two “down – there” to relieve dryness.

Deodorizer – Thanks to it’s bacteria-killing lauric acid, smearing a small amount of oil will rid foot and body odors.

Anti-Frizz Serum – Apply a dap to hair to help seal the cuticle and repel against nasty frizzies.

Lip Balm – Dab onto lips to keep them moisturized, supple and tasty!

Giveaways Ending Tonight

The Tropical Traditions Organic Flour Giveaway ends tonight, 7/7. Entries will be accepted until 11:59pm. If you haven’t entered, there is still plenty of time! Thank you for entering and GOOD LUCK! 

Win A $400 Organically Grown Baby Bedding Set

Win A Bedding Set for Baby from Organically Grown

One lucky fan of Organically Grown will win a beautiful prize package valued at over $400.00!

The winner will have the option of choosing a luxurious organic set from Organically Grown’s spring 2010 line.

For girls, they have created the Garden Grown collection, capturing the soft luxury of organic cotton with shades of pink, plum, and white, white delicate patterned embroideries of butterflies and flowers.

For boys, the adventurous Organic Safari collection is perfect with a soft green, brown, and ivory palate and adorable safari animal embroideries. The soft and cuddly organic cotton bedding is perfect for baby’s delicate skin. 

 

The winner will receive the following items:
(boy or girl)

Four Piece Crib Set

Window Valance

Musical Mobile

Lamp with Shade

Matching Wall Decals

Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour Review

I don’t cook as often as I should but when I do, I prefer to prepare healthy meals. For the  longest time, I have been using white or wheat flour. In search of a healthier option, I discovered Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour.

Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour is made of the fiber derived from the coconut, after the oil has been extracted. It is certified organic, unsweetened and unlike many other products, this coconut flour is not treated with sulfites or preservatives. 

Being the amateur cook that I am, I was at a loss of what to make using my coconut flour. I turned to the Tropical Traditions (organic flour) recipe section, and I am glad I did. From there, I learned that this flour can be used not only for baking but for entrees, soups, drinks, desserts, dressings and more. I love that they have so many gluten-free recipes! I started off with a recipe I found from their beverage recipes, known as the Banana Coconut Shake. 

My banana shake was absolutely delicious- the best I have ever tasted! I have also experimented by using my organic coconut flour for coating chicken, tilapia, salmon, shrimp, pancakes, and even pizza! Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour smells heavenly. There is a nice texture and it adds an irresistible light, sweet taste.

In addition to smelling and tasting great, Tropical Traditions Organic Flour is a great way to boost your daily intake of fiber and protein. It has more fiber than gluten-based grains. Are your following a gluten-free diet? Tropical Traditions Organic Flour is gluten free and also contains more than 19% non-gluten protein! I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and my doctor recommends I avoid traditional white flour. I am so ecstatic to have found a healthy substitute that my doctors approves and I can truly enjoy.

Enter My Tropical Traditions Giveaway

Purchase Information 

Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour may be purchased online at Tropical Traditions.

Cost: 1- 2.2lb bag is $12.95 (on sale for $10.95) or select 2 bags for $25.90 (on sale for $17.99)

*Disclaimer: A sample of Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour was provided to me in exchange  for my honest review. I received no other compensation for my review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

ERGObaby Carrier Review and Giveaway

There is no better feeling in the world than holding your baby close. ERGObaby carriers allow you to have a constant connection with your baby, all while maintaining a great feeling of freedom and security knowing your baby is safe.

The ERGO baby carrier’s ergonomic design supports a natural sitting position for the baby’s hips, pelvis and spine growth. It disperses most of the baby’s weight between the hips and thighs and helps prevent compression of the spine. The ERGObaby carrier also alleviates physical stress from the parent by balancing the baby’s weight between the parent’s hips and shoulders.

ERGO baby graciously sent me the black with camel lining Ergo baby carrier from their Original ERGObaby collection. 

 

Product Details

• 14 ounce cotton canvas for maximum durability
• High quality buckles – testes by SGS
• Adjustable sleeping hood to accommodate baby’s growth
• Ergonomic design
• 100% Cotton batting in body of carrier to soften edges
• 400 threads per inch of cotton / poplin lining in hood
• One inch, high-density foam shoulder straps
• Reinforced stitching used at all fabric intersections
• High-quality webbing matched to carrier color
• Quarter inch high-density neoprene foam in waist belt
• Machine wash and dry

  

I love that my ERGObaby carrier is so versatile. It can be worn in the front (belly to belly), on the back and even on the hip. The high quality of my carrier is very impressive. It is strong and durable and most importantly it is safe. This is my first baby carrier. I have always been curious but I have not been able to find a stylish carrier that I was comfortable wearing on a regular basis. That is, until I tried ERGO baby. They have many fun and stylish carriers, along with neutral and solid baby carriers.   

My ERGObaby carrier is extremely comfortable for me . There is no back or neck strain, no tension, no pain - even when worn for an extended period of time. ERGObaby is easy and convenient to use. I simply snap on the waist strap, place my baby in the desired position, then pull shoulder straps in place. I was very impressed that I was able to install the carrier myself. My son seems to be very impressed with our ERGObaby carrier as well. Normally he stays awake while we are out and about, but with the soothing motion from being on my back while walking, he is quick to fall sound asleep. When that happens, I simply position the head wrap so his head doesn’t move around.

My only regret is that it has taken me so long to discover ERGObaby. Each time I wear my carrier, I think back to the many times I was stuck lugging around a baby carrier by hand, or carrying my hefty child only to be sore throughout the night and into morning. Now that summer is here, I plan to use my carrier on a regular basis. It is such a relief to have a hands-free, comfortable, convenient carrier for both my son and I. 

GIVEAWAY

Win It

Thanks to ERGObaby, one lucky Review Retreat reader will win an ERGObaby carrier of their own!!

How To Enter (required):

Visit ERGObaby and let me know which original carrier or organic carrier you would choose if you won.

Extra Entries (optional):

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Enter the ERGObaby Carrier Giveaway @ERGObaby @Jennifer_Marek | #giveaway #contest #babywearing #organic #infant | http://bit.ly/dd3lOF

Details:
Giveaway begins on June 14, 2010 and ends on June 30, 2010 at 11:59 cst. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Giveaway open to US and Canada! Click here to view the complete giveaway rules/guidelines.

*Disclaimer: A sample product was provided to me in exchange  for my honest review. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil Hair Treatment

Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil for Hair Treatment is specially made for hair application. It has a slightly higher amount of protein than other Tropical Tradition's coconut oils, due to the presence of coconut solids. This Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil is a truly unrefined coconut oil.

Once again, Tropical Traditions has exceeded my expectations. My Coconut Oil for Hair Treatment arrived just several days after ordering. My hair treatment was tucked neatly inside protective bubble wrap and cardboard inserts.

I don't know a single woman who doesn't desire healthy, shiny hair. Personally, I prefer long hair. I have tried every product imaginable to try and make my hair grow. Did you know protein is needed to support scalp health? A deficiency can result in a dry scalp and thus hair, giving it a dull look. Since peanut butter contains a high amount of protein, I was using this as a hair treatment. As you can probably imagine, peanut butter is not the ideal treatment for hair. Although it does contain a high amount of protein, it is very sticky and messy. It is thick and difficult to rinse out of your hair (especially is you mistakenly use peanut butter with peanuts)!

Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil for Hair Treatment has been found to be the only oil to help reduce the loss of protein from damaged and healthy hair when used as a pre-wash or post-wash hair treatment. Rather then just sitting on the outside of your hair, Coconut Oil penetrates your hair and scalp, providing a deep conditioning. You will begin to notice less split ends therefore your hair will begin to grow faster and longer.

How To Use

For dry scalp - Rub into hair and scalp at least 30 minutes before showering, or before bed at night. Wear a shower cap or towel to protect bedding.

As a hair conditioner - Rub into the ends of your hair after washing, while the hair is still wet. Apply as needed, working towards the scalp. It can also be used as a pre-wash hair treatment applying just before showering.

Excellent for ALL hair types!

I have used my Coconut Oil Hair Treatment as a pre-wash treatment, a deep conditioner and as an aid to my dry scalp. This product smells amazingly delicious! I promise you will want to eat it. I was very impressed with the overall results from this product.

My favorite way to use Coconut Oil Hair Treatment is as a pre-wash, because it takes less time for me. I massaged a small amount in my hair, paying special attention to split ends. I let this penetrate my locks for 15 minutes, however you can chose to rinse out after only a few minutes. My hair is very long/ thick and I have a lot of split ends, which is why I chose 15 minutes. After I rinsed, I proceeded to shampoo and condition my hair as usual. I immediately noticed a difference once my hair was dry. My hair was shiny and exceptionally soft. Oh, and it smelt just as edible as the hair treatment itself. All night, my husband was leaning in to smell my hair. I must admit, the "your hair smells so good" comments were greatly appreciated.

The Coconut Oil Hair Treatment worked just as wonderfully as a conditioner and for dry scalp. Most women would shriek at the thought of adding oil to their hair in fear of looking greasy. I assure you, Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil for Hair Treatment will not give you a greasy look. I found it to be very light and it did not at all weigh my hair down.

Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil for Hair Treatment retails for $25.00 but is currently on sale for just $19.95. I realize to some, $20 might seem like a lot to spend on hair products, because I rarely spend it myself. However, this hair treatment left my hair looking and feeling better then it does when I leave the salon. This product goes a long way and is definitely worth every penny.

The All Natural Face Review

The All Natural Face provides women with pure and clean all natural Vegan Cosmetics and bath and body products. Their mission is to provide women of all ages with the best mineral cosmetics available. Products from The All Natural Face are free of bismuth, talc, carmine, silk powder and parabens. They have products starting at just $1.50! This is by far the most affordable, high quality mineral makeup I have come across.

The All Natural Face generously provided me with several products to try. Over the last several months I have become more and more interested in mineral makeup. Not only does it apply flawlessly, but it leaves your skin with a healthy natural glow. The All Natural Face has a wide selection of eyeshadow, shimmer eyeshadow, foundation, eyeliner, mascara, application brushes and much more!

First up was the Honey Peach Eyeshadow. This eye shadow comes in a 5 gram sifter jar. The ingredients in this shadow include: Mica, Magnesium Myristate, Boron Nitride, Oxides. This shade is much prettier then the picture. It is a beautiful peach shade with a hint of pink shimmer. I had to apply the Honey Peach several times to achieve the desired color because it blended in with my skin tone. Once I was able to achieve the look I was going for, it made my eyes stand out and lasted the entire day!

The next eyeshadow shade I tried was Twilight. The ingredients in this eyeshadow include:Mica, Magnesium Myristate, Boron Nitride, Oxides. This is also available in a 5 gram sifter jar. Twilight is a very beautiful royal shimmer blue. This is darker then the shades I would typically wear out but is great for wearing out or achieving a dramatic look. My third eyeshadow to try was the shade Boysenberry Shimmer. The ingredients in this shade are the same ingredients as used in Twilight. This is the nicest shade of blue I have ever seen in an eyeshadow. It is so bright and beautiful! You can blend it in for a more subtle shade of blue or apply once to your eyelid for a stunning bold look.

The fourth eyeshadow I received was the shade Metallic Antique Copper. This shade reminds me of a brand new penny. The color is very rich and warm. This is my favorite eyeshadow of all time! I have actually been looking for a similar shade for quite some time. This shade looks great on brunettes, and compliments women with all skin tones. Like the other eyeshadow's from The All Natural Face, this applies easily and provides a lasting effect.

Finally, I received The All Natural Face Lengthening/Volumizing Mascara and Vegan Gel Pot, both in black. The mascara wand is straight and I found it to be very easy to apply. You can apply once for a very natural look. I prefer a very dramatic look, so I applied once allowing it to dry and added several more coats. The end result? The mascara definitely added length and volume. My lashes were defined and I was easily able to achieve the dramatic look I was hoping for. This mascara seems unable to clump, which is a huge plus! The "That Black" Gel pot is basically a liquid eyeliner. Since I don't normally wear eyeliner, it took me a few attempts to achieve an even line. This gel pot is highly pigmented and lasted me all day. I like that it did not smear and it did a beautiful job of defining my eyes.

The All Natural Face is offering 30% off all Gel Liners, Lip Yummies, and Concealers! Shop before 4/15 when this amazing sale ends!

Where To Buy: Shop The All Natural Face Online, or Purchase from Their Etsy Shop

Cost: Prices start at just $1.50!

Disclaimer: I received these complimentary products in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review.

Organically Grown Two Piece Toddler Set

Organically Grown is a young and innovative company who has made a commitment to help make Earth a healthy planet. Organically grown offers affordable, safe, stylish, high-quality organic products. They offer products such as men's and women's apparel, infant and toddler clothing, home decor and personal care items.

Why Organic?

The Organic Exchange found that nearly 170 million pounds of pesticides and 25% of the worlds insecticides are used in the production of non-organic cotton. 7 out of 10 of these pesticides are on the EPA's (Environmental Protection Agency) "known" list of "likely" or "probable" carcinogens. These chemicals result in work-force illnesses, water contamination and the devastation of farmland. Did you know all of these problems can be eliminated through organic farming processes? Honestly, I had no idea. It scares me to think I am a part of this. Too bad the EPA doesn't require manufacturers to print this on clothing tags. I would have made the change to organic long before now. Organically Grown is proud to be a part of the solution and I am excited share my first organic clothing review with you.

I am always so jealous of my friends who have baby girls. Boys clothing is always so plain and boring. I was expecting another plain and boring outfit from Organically Grown. Instead, they sent me this:I received the most adorable organic two piece outfit know as the "Handle With Care" 2 Piece Toddler Set. I must admit, this was a huge surprise. This outfit is one of the cutest boys sets I have seen. The fabric is so soft and well made. My son is 23 months old and normally wears a 5T. Organically grown has recently expanded their product line to include toddlers, which is very exciting!


I always have a hard time finding clothes that fit my son because he is so stout. I like that the waistband in these shorts are elastic. They fit my son great and provide ultimate comfort. It can become very frustrating shopping for him. He owns several clothing items that I know are uncomfortable for him. In some of them, he can't bend properly or even climb into a chair by himself. The shorts he is wearing from Organically Grown allow him to move freely.

My best friend is having her first baby girl. I saw the "Butterfly and Ladybug" dress while browsing Organically Grown, and knew I had to have this for her. For all of you with little girls, this one is for you. With a dress this cute, how could you say no?

Whether you are looking for a new cute organic outfit or are considering buying organic for the first time, I highly recommend Organically Grown. Their website is easy to navigate and their products are too cute to pass up.

Try it before you buy it! Enter my Organically Grown Giveaway!

Where To Buy: Shop Organically Grown Online

Cost: Handle with Care set - $30.00 / Butterfly and Ladybug Dress - $30.00

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary outfit in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review.

Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator Giveaway

Tropical Traditions has generously offered to provide one lucky Review Retreat reader a 4oz jar of Skin Exfoliator!

MANDATORY: Visit Tropical Traditions and let me know another skin care product you would like to try. Your email address must be visible in your entry comment.

EXTRA ENTRIES: Please remember to leave a separate comment for each entry. If it says 3 extra entries, leave 3 separate comments. If you only leave one comment, it will only count as one entry!

-Follow Tropical Traditions on Twitter +1
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-Subscribe to Tropical Traditions Newsletter. +1
-Leave a comment on Tropical Traditions Facebook wall. Include link/Facebook ID. +1
-Subscribe to my free newsletter. +1
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-Stumble, Digg and/or add to Del.icio.us Bookmarks.(Include username/link) +2 each
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-Tweet the following (up to 3x daily) +1 each tweet

RT- Win a #Free Tropical Traditions Exfoliator @Jennifer_Marek @Troptraditions #giveaway #contest #beauty http://beta.tiny.cc/c7l2y

DETAILS:
Giveaway begins on April 3, 2010 and ends on April 18, 2010 at 11:59 cst. Giveaway is open to US & Canadian Residents. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner must respond within 48 hours otherwise a new winner will be selected. Only one person/ per email/ per household/ per IP address may enter. Click here to view the complete giveaway rules/guidelines.

Disclaimer: I received a free jar of skin exfoliator in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review or host a giveaway.

Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator Review

I recently had the opportunity to review Tropical Traditions Virgin Coconut Oil. It only took one use for me to fall completely in love with Tropical Traditions and their amazing organic products.

Tropical Traditions sent me their Skin Exfoliator to try. Their skin exfoliators are available in 3 scents - Citrus Mint, Lavender and unscented. Each 4oz jar is made with sea salt, organic virgin coconut oil, organic jojoba, and organic virgin palm oil. The Citrus Mint and Lavender are made with essential oils while the unscented exfoliator contains no essential oil and is best for those with allergies or are sensitive to fragrances.

Did you know that exfoliating smoothes the skin, unclogs pores, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles? What woman wouldn't want that? So, for my review, I chose the Unscented Skin Exfoliator. The unscented exfoliator is made with organic coconut oil and it has a mesmerizing coconut scent to it. For the past 2 years I have suffered from extremely dry and flaky skin. After using Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator for just one week, I have not noticed any flaky or dead skin. I found this product works best when you dampen your skin first. You only need a tiny amount and I found for best results this should be applied in a circular motion.

When you first open your jar of Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator, you will see a layer of oil. You will need to mix your exfoliator to blend the sea salt and natural oils together. I used my finger which worked great. I began with a small, dime size amount which worked perfect for me. You may add more if needed. I do suggest massaging gently. This exfoliator will work wonders with just a small amount of pressure. If you press down too hard, you are likely to experience redness. When I rinsed the exfoliator off of my skin, I noticed an oily feeling. I pat dry my face as instructed and the oily feeling was gone. My face felt as soft and smooth as a new born baby's skin!

The best part about Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator's is that you can use in other areas then just your face. Apply generously to hands, feet, elbows to remove rough or callused skin. In addition to exfoliator, Tropical Traditions carries a complete line of skincare products. Click here to find out more.

Want to try it before you buy it? Enter my giveaway to win your exfoliator, free!

Where To Purchase: Online at Tropical Traditions.
Price: Originally $16.95 On Sale $11.95

Disclaimer: I received this complimentary product in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review/giveaway.

20% OFF NVEY ECO Organic Makeup

As many people are becoming more aware of our environment, they are quickly discovering other ways to be "green". One of those ways is by using organic makeup!

Organic makeup is great for people who have sensitive skin and/or suffer from acne. Unlike many conventional beauty products, organic makeup does not contain harmful toxic chemicals. Organic makeup is easy to apply and will leave you with a flawless, glowing complexion.

If you are not familiar with organic makeup or NVEY ECO, please read my full review to find out more.

Enter the code RR-20 during checkout to receive 20% off your entire order!
Valid now through May 31, 2010

NVEY ECO Organic Makeup Review

NVEY ECO is the leader in luxury organic makeup. They are the first organic artistry brand - high performance, intense pigments, no compromises! NOT mineral - Certified Organic!

NVEY ECO's luxurious collection of cosmetics include ingredients such as natural beeswax, rose absolute, jojoba oil, chamomile and vitamins such as A, E and C . Unlike many chemical based cosmetics, NVEY ECO does not test on animals. They offer such a infinite color selection to accommodate women of all ages and skin types.

NVEY ECO graciously sent me several cosmetic samples to try. In the past I have used mineral makeup, but this is the first time I have used organic makeup. NVEY ECO carries everything from concealer, eyeshadow, lipstick, foundation, blush and so much more!

First up was the NVEY ECO Organic Lip Lustre in the shade Flirt. All of their lip lustre's come in a long "tube" similar to many lip glosses. The handle is long and rectangular, making it easy to grasp and apply. Flirt Lip Lustre is a beautiful rich burgundy shade. This lustre was ultra moisturizing and very smooth. Although this shade is darker than I would typically wear, I like the fact that these lusters are non-sticky and lightweight. Only one application was needed because this product lasted for hours!

The Organic Creme Deluxe Foundation is available in 10 shades. I was sent the darkest shade- Deep Medium to Dark -878. Even as a self admitted tan-o-holic, my skin would never be dark enough to wear this shade. This foundation was smooth and creamy with a light, almost unnoticeable fragrance. I like that NVEY ECO's foundation felt as if it was melting into my skin rather than caking up and highlighting my flaws.

I was also sent Organic Powder Blush-950, or Deep Terra Cotta. This shade is a dark, deep reddish brown. I have dark hair and dark eyes and normally choose a color to help brighten my face. Although this was too dark for me, it would be great for anyone who likes browns and reds. This also pairs great with the Flirt Lip Lustre. This blush is highly pigmented therefore only a tiny amount of product is necessary. If you prefer lighter shades, NVEY ECO has a beautiful warm pink shade!

The NVEY ECO Organic Eyeshadow-167 is a beautiful Bronzed Marigold Shimmer. This shade can be worn alone or as a highlighter. I wore this shade while on an adventurous all day shopping event under the hot Texas sun. I found that throughout the day, my eyeshadow stayed fresh and looked as if I had just applied it. It took 15 hours before it began to crease. I imagine it would last even longer if a primer was applied prior to applying the eyeshadow.

The Organic Eyeshadow- 161 is a very versatile Pale Silver White Shimmer. This shadow can be worn alone, to compliment other shades, as a brow bone highlighter, as a liner or used in the corner of your eyes to help brighten your eyes and make them stand out. I didn't think I would like this shade. From looking at it in the package, it looks like a solid white. But once applied, this shadow completely transformed my eyes. I used this shade in the corners of my eyes and as a base. My eyes definitely stood out. This shade blended easily with my other shades and lasted all day.

I have saved the best for last! NVEY ECO also sent me Organic Eyeshadow- 159. They describe this color as Pink Carnation Shimmer. I would call it "Every woman's Must Have"! I'm so excited that I had the opportunity to try this shade. For months, I have been looking for a pink eyeshadow. Everything I came across screamed 13 year old glitter pre-teen princess. The shades I have found either look too light, too pink or too glittery. NVEY ECO's Pink Carnation is the perfect shade of pink. You can apply it once for a subtle shade of pink or re-apply for a brighter pink color. I swept it across my eyelid then used it to contour my crease. It actually looked like I was wearing two shades of eyeshadow. This has just enough shimmer to draw attention to your eyes. Like the other eyeshadows from NVEY ECO, Pink Carnation Shimmer is lightweight, easy to apply, smooth and best of all it lasts all day without creasing or fading. If you are looking for a pink eyeshadow- look no further! This shade is absolutely gorgeous!

Green Is Sexy!

NVEY ECO Organic Makeup can be purchased online.

Disclaimer: I received complimentary product samples in exchange for my honest review. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review.