Top 7 Benefits Of Roses In Your Skincare

Roses are red, violets are blue, and I have a skincare ingredient just for you! 

Why, Roses, of course! And today, Barbie's Beauty Bits will share with you the top 7 benefits of roses in your skincare!

When most think of roses, they think of the scent of rose distillate, romance, Valentine's Day, or maybe an anniversary. But as we say here at Barbie's Beauty Bits, roses aren't just a symbol of love.

Roses have numerous benefits for the skin that have been around for centuries! From Cleopatras rose baths (think rose water for the skin) to use from Ancient Greeks and Romans. The benefits of rose water and rose extract have been around for a very long time!

So, if you are ready to channel your inner goddess and indulge in some rose petal skincare goodness, continue reading.

I have partnered up with Hyalo AI Beauty to discuss the benefits of rose-infused skincare products and their Rosé Spot Defying Primer for this blog post.

What The Heck Is AI (active intelligence)
Before I get into the beautiful individual benefits of roses in your skincare, let's discuss how the skin loving ingredients, 12 to be exact in Hyalo AI Beauty Rosé Spot Defying Primer, work.

What is Hyalo AI Beauty's active intelligence all about? They are natural ingredients sequentially released over time to defend, shield, and heal.

All of Hyalo AI Beauty formulas are a proprietary blend of natural ingredients, and each is sourced sustainably to deliver pure goodness in its purest form.

These ingredients work together to intelligently undo skincare damage and help to restore a more youthful appearance. Their ingredients are powered by Nanosphere technology for targeted, fast, and long-lasting magical beauty!

Hyalo AI Nanosphere Technology

This skincare technology is what makes Hyalo's AI skincare products different.  (Oh, my inner Sheldon so loves this). That is Sheldon from Big Bang theory for those that have no clue what the heck I am talking about.

But in all seriousness, Hyalo AI Beauty does what they claim to do by delivering the active ingredients in their skincare products. This AI Nanosphere Technology offers real solutions to your skin concerns rather than masking them. But what the heck does that mean?

Hyalo Nanospheres are nano-sized particles that penetrate the epidermis to intelligently deliver key active ingredients in a targeted, sequential, and time-controlled manner at the molecular level.  

In laymen's terms, HYALO AI's nanosphere technology enables the product to continue actively working and improving your skin long after it has been applied. Twenty-four hours- in fact!

Now that I have taken the Sheldon anecdotal approach to explain Hyalo AI Nanosphere technology works. How do we know what ingredients are active ingredients and how will you know if they will make a difference? Find out below.

Read The Label
Like food, reading the skin care product labels to find out the active ingredients is essential. Ingredients are listed on the INCI list, which stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. It's a standardized system for listing ingredient names on cosmetic product labels to eliminate confusion regardless of the country.

According to INCI, a skincare brand must print the ingredients on the packaging in the order of highest to lowest concentration.

Generally speaking, the first five ingredients listed on a label have the highest percentages, ultimately determining the product's performance. But this is not always the case, especially when talking about antioxidants, as they can be potent in small doses.  

Hyalo AI12 Beauty Rosé Spot Defying Primer
As mentioned above, the Rosé Spot Defying Primer contains 12 active ingredients (including natural rose extract). This clinically proven Rosé aims to address many skincare concerns regardless of skin type. Let see some of them below.

Roses, The Flower Of Youth
As we age, our collagen production slows down. This is why we start to see sagginess, wrinkles, and volume loss, which are signs of aging.

A boost in collagen is something many look for when selecting an anti-aging skincare product as that helps maintain firmness and suppleness in our skin. And rose extract can help with this as it is rich in Vitamin C, which aids in collagen production.

Rose properties can also help increase the skin's brightness and tone, even fade acne scarring. It is worth noting that many people have had great success in using natural rose extract to fade hyperpigmentation and sunspots.

Roses Reducing Redness
Do you have some unwanted rosiness or maybe sensitive skin? Well, if so, then this Rosé Spot Defying Primer is calling your name. Roses have anti-inflammatory properties and antibacterial properties—key ingredients to fight inflammation and skin conditions while minimizing redness, reducing acne, and soothing irritation.

Double Down
While we are not playing blackjack here, just like in blackjack, you get extra in return when you double down. The natural rose extract offers that "additional bet" of skincare success by helping control excess sebum production (natural oil production), doubling down as a clarifier.

You see, when the skin produces too much oil, it can mix with dead skin cells and dirt in a pore. This oil and dead skin get trapped, causing the pore to become inflamed.

Rose oil extract is very effective at exfoliating the dead skin cells, unclogging, leaving your complexion tightened and radiant.

Boost Your Skincare
While exfoliation is a must, you can over-exfoliate the skin, damaging your moisture barrier, especially with us going in between the blistering cold outdoors and the indoor HVAC heat in these cold winter months.  

This Rosé primer is a superb emollient to moisturize skin, protecting dry skin from moisture loss caused by the winter air. At the same time, they prevent free radicals and toxins from entering the skin.

Hyalo AI Beauty, Rosé Spot Defying Primer works excellent with your other skincare products because of its impressive hydrating benefits that pull deeper into the skin, penetrating where it can make an actual difference.

Balancing Act
Is your complexion on a balancing act? Meaning one day, your skin may be oily and another it feels dry? Well, it is because your pH is off, and the Rosé Spot Defying Primer is the perfect essential oil primer to help correct your pH levels.

Roses Doing A Double Duty As A Facial Primer
I saved the best for last...to wear this primer with or without makeup. Beauties, you will not believe how flawless my makeup has looked using this Rosé Spot Defying Primer!

Aside from the skincare aspect we have been sharing throughout this blog post. This facial primer is fantastic to help prep the skin for flawless, long-lasting makeup applications. I'm sure we'd all agree that dry flaking skin is a nightmare to dry to apply makeup.

If you follow my blog, you know my thoughts using a face primer before applying your makeup. They are a must. Without them, your makeup will sit in your pores, create false wrinkles while leaving a dull appearance...period!

On the other hand, when you do use a primer. You'll find that your foundation and other beauty products will have a much smoother finish while minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines! This rose primer has helped keep my facial makeup in place while adding that extra glow just in time for the holiday season!

There you have it, Barbie's Beauty Bits Top 7 Benefits of Roses In Your Skincare! Now you know why you, too, should be adding Hyalo AI Beauty, Rosé Spot Defying Primer to your daily skincare routine.

Try some other Hyalo AI Beauty products and add them to Christmas list with their Christmas Sale! Start shopping on Amazon HERE

• Rosé Spot Defying Primer
• OBubbly Dullness Defying Face Wash
• Matcha Shot Time Defying Eye Serum

K-beauty's No.1 White Truffle Skincare Line, d'Alba Piedmont

There are plenty of buzz-worthy skincare ingredients, and for the month of August, I have been sharing some of these cutting-edge ingredients with you.

One gem of an ingredient I will be talking about today is found in K-beauty. K-beauty brands have been elevating the entire skincare game for years. So, when Barbie's Beauty Bits hears of a new brand hitting the US market or, better yet, a must-have K-beauty ingredient, I will check it out, and if I like what I see, I will share it with you, my beauties.

One brand that has ranked No.1 in the K-Beauty online skincare scene is d'Alba Piedmont. When I heard the brand sold seven million bottles of its white truffle-infused serum in South Korea, I knew my skin needed this, pronto!  

What makes the d'Alba Piedmont skincare line so popular amongst celebrities? It's gourmet skincare ingredient, white truffles. So, if you want to find out what is so impressive about white truffles in anti-aging and why you need to check out the d'Alba Piedmont white truffle skincare line, continue reading.

d'Alba Piedmont The Gourmet Skincare Brand
d'Alba is derived from d'Alba, an Italian sanctuary full of white truffles called 'diamonds in the ground.' Before I get into the many skincare benefits this "gem" ingredient has to offer; I'd love to share some background as it is pretty interesting.

You see, Italy is a playground for truffle hunters. There are 25 species found there, nine of them edible. None is rarer than the trifola d'Alba Madonna', the white truffle, known as the "Diamond of Alba." (Or diamonds in the ground).  This mushroom is grown underground and takes about 7-10 years to harvest.

Since these truffles are such rare treasures, their market price is driven by an enormous demand. Set daily as the best truffle, at Alba Truffle Market, the average cost can skyrocket to more than $3,000 per pound. But that hasn't turned away K-beauty brand d'Alba Piedmont. Nope, they work with a professional white truffle extraction organization to ensure the best processes. And catch this...Due to Piedmont law, d'Alba is only allowed to this prized ingredient from September through January.

So, what is the fuss all about with white truffles anyways? They are just mushrooms found in dirt.

The Benefits Of White Truffles In Skincare
Well, it turns out this delicacy does some fantastic things for the skin. Honestly, I was not surprised as mushrooms provide many skin-loving benefits; white truffles, particularly, tout unique properties that make them even more favorable for addressing numerous skincare concerns, especially those regarding anti-aging.

This prized white mushroom delivers a powerhouse of nutrients to the skin, such as
•    Anti-aging peptides
•    Essential fatty acids
•    Vitamin B12
•    Vitamin C
•    Ceramides

These ingredients found in white truffles are what make them that hidden gem! 

• First, they contain fatty acids and emollients that support the skin barrier. 
• Rich in natural hydrating amino acids, white truffle nourishes the skin with hydration and boosts moisture levels for a softer, smoother complexion.
• Outstanding skin repair as it is packed with antioxidants to help fight free radical damage that can lead to premature aging.
• Aid in the repair of sun-damaged skin, with the high vitamin C content for brightening the skin and the vitamin B12 for hyperpigmentation and smoothing rough texture. 
• They are anti-inflammatory, helping to alleviate redness and irritation. It also targets the less visible, minor inflammation that can also make skin look older and lackluster.

And with that, I am sold!

Amazon's Hidden Skincare Gem
If you're looking to try the best of the best when it comes to Korean skincare, d'Alba Piedmont is a great place to start.

While d'Alba products are over-the-counter products, they have been tested by dermatologists. They are all are vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and paraben-free, making them safe for sensitive skin.  

Below are five products from the White Truffle line I think you're going to love. And with everything under $40 and all available on Amazon Prime (means no shipping costs), you're going to be shopping in no time.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle First Spray Serum
This is the true star in this truffle skincare line, and with over 7 million bottles sold, voted best spray serum in more than 120 beauty stores, exported throughout 15 countries globally, and over 51,000 reviews. As they say, this product has your back; I say it's your skin's BFF and a wrinkles worst enemy!

Fans swear by its triple function to improve fine lines and wrinkles, brighten, and deliver major hydration to the skin with its nourishing extracts from white truffle, lotus, avocado oil, sunflower seed oil, and chia seed extract.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Vital Spray Serum
This is the pick me up your skin needs. This intensely hydrating spray energizes fatigued skin and leaves it glowing with a luxe blend of Italian white truffle and natural red oils (rosehip oil, red rose oil, and scented geranium oil).

I love this serum because it protects the skin from environmental stressors while giving your skin the elastin boost it needs. Works great thrown in your purse or overnight bag for a quick makeup refresher.

The d'alba Piedmont No-Sebum Peptide Line
Free of parabens, artificial fragrances, animal ingredients, and mineral oil. This line is designed to remove excess oil and purify the skin.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Peptide No-Sebum Gel Cleanser
This mild gel cleanser includes a powerful blend of BHA's to exfoliate dead skin cells delicately, clear excess sebum, and blackheads.

And of course, the star ingredient, white truffles, works to speed up cellular turnover by supplying ample nutrients to the skin, leaving it moisturized and refreshed.

A great bonus with this cleanser is there is no need to double cleanse as it clears all impurities, even heavy makeup, with one application while supplying the skin with nutrients from its organic substances.

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Peptide No-Sebum Repair Cream
It's time to get your daily dose of intense hydration with this multifunctional cream ideal for oily skin and uneven texture. This cream provides various functions, including enhancement of skin vitality, texture, relief, and glow! Its lightweight finish leaves your face feeling soft and silky! 

d'alba Piedmont White Truffle Peptide No-Sebum Toner
The skin's balancing act...This multitasking toner is alcohol-free and suitable for all skin types. It is formulated with soothing ingredients such as niacinamide, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, and coconut extract, known to enhance the skin's health while removing excess oil and purifying the skin.

Other Benefits:

• Brightens The Complexion-Brings back radiance and brightens the skin while providing antioxidant benefits to help fight free radicals.
• Stimulates Skin Renewal-The Italian White Truffle Extract moisturizes and stimulates cell renewal while peptides create firm, plump skin.
• Provides Light Exfoliation-The BHA gently exfoliates and removes excess sebum to deep clean pores and keep your skin clear.

By adding the right toner to your routine, you can amp up your skincare regimen, as toners are great for helping to prep your skin for anti-aging treatments and serums.

Sum It Up For Us
To sum it up, while white truffles are difficult to source and much more potent than some other skincare ingredients, white truffles are the ultimate luxe skincare ingredient and so worth investing in.

And don't worry, you will not break the bank! Unlike some other luxury skincare companies using the truffle's ultra-extravagant reputation to justify jaw-dropping pricing, the d'Alba Piedmont brand is readily accessible on Amazon, with free shipping from Prime members and quick delivery.

So, what are you waiting for? This K-beauty brand has already become an Amazon bestseller, and due to d'Alba's quality products, it has captivated the heart of QVC, HSN and now Barbie’s Beauty Bits. 

Escape To Your Happy Place With Kristen Bell's CBD Skincare

If you're a HAPPY CBD lover, you already know that National CBD Day falls on August 8th. And if you've been under a rock and not aware of the benefits of CBD, well pour yourself a glass of wine as I share with you the many skin-loving benefits and a must-have new CBD premium product- Happy Dance, created by Kristen Bell, which can now be found at Ulta.

Before I get into the benefits of CBD-infused beauty products, I want to tell you what it isn't, as many have some preconceived perceptions about what CBD is actually all about.

Will CBD Get Me High
First and foremost, CBD will not get you high! CBD stands for cannabidiol, a compound found naturally in hemp plants. Unlike THC, CBD is not intoxicating. And yes, we are sure it won’t get you high.
 
Ok, So I Will Not Get High From CBD, But What Is The Heck Is It
CBD is a cannabinoid that is extracted from cannabis. Like any other plant species, cannabis comes in various shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. One group of cannabis strains is called hemp, which is high (no pun intended) in CBD with negligible amounts of THC. While hemp is excellent for things like building materials, textiles, food, and even CBD-based beauty products, what it is not suitable for is getting you high!

It's Time To Look Alive With The Help Of CBD
Okay, now that we got that out of the way, let's talk about this buzz-worthy ingredient found in beauty products. This cannabis compound is favorable for health and wellness and has incredible benefits when used topically, especially for the skin. CBD is known for its healing properties and offers some serious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. This is why this superstar ingredient is one of the newest skincare must-haves!

Not only is CBD impressive for anti-aging, moisturizing, bringing that dull skin back to life, boosting hydration, and neutralizing free radical damage. This holy grail ingredient is the secret weapon to fighting the tired mom face syndrome by giving you that alive, fresh face and glowing complexion you had before giving birth! How, you may ask? Find out below.

Stress Is Spoiling The Skin
We all know that stress is horrible for our mental health, but not many know that stress can wreak havoc on the skin. Yep, stress causes our body to produce a hormone called cortisol, aka the stress hormone. This hormone breaks down elastane and collagen, which leads to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles~~WTF? It can also trigger acne and dull skin from neglect. With our minds preoccupied with work, laundry, kids soccer, dance, and cheerleading practice, moms barely have time to breathe, let alone skincare or a mom beauty routine. 

Look Alive CBD Face Moisturizer
While those kiddies are a blessing, they can be stressful, and that is why Happy Dance, a line of premium CBD products, was created with millennial moms in mind. Why moms? Because if anyone could use a little more boost in their beauty routines, it’s moms.

Just ask co-founder Kristen Bell. Her personal experience with CBD skincare inspired her to create the Happy Dance brand and their newest product, Look Alive CBD Face Moisturizer. As when you can care for yourself, you can better care for those I love.

Tell Me The Benefits Of Happy Dance CBD Face Moisturizer
This replenishing hydrating face cream is the perfect first line of defense against stressed skin, your moisture barrier. CBD has moisturizing properties that can help combat dehydration and dryness that you may have misplaced along the way… under piles of laundry, 4 hours of sleep, or your 8th cup of coffee.

This face moisturizer has some other excellent benefits, making anyone wanting to do the happy dance. See some of them below.

CBD oil is an antioxidant that contains vitamins and other powerful, anti-inflammatory properties that your skin will love! Not only can CBD oil help to maintain a more youthful complexion, but the antioxidants found in it can also assist in:

• Promoting cellular turnover
• Balancing out your skin tone
• Reducing inflammation and puffiness
• Soothing the skin
• Simulating blood flow to help improve the skin's elasticity
  

Other Skin Loving Ingredients In Kristen Bell's Happy Dance CBD Face Moisturizer
If the above wasn't enough to win you over, I know this will! Not only is this face cream infused with Full Spectrum CBD, but it also contains avocado oil, hyaluronic acid, and plant squalene to soften skin and improve moisture barrier function, which defends against dry, stressed skin.

• Avocado Oil is a nutrient-dense oil rich in omega 6 & 9 fatty acids. It’s great for softening skin and acts as a hydrating hug, locking in good ingredients.
• It contains four types of hyaluronic acids; WHAT??? Yes, you read correctly. I said four hyaluronic acid types creating a sponge-like matrix that fills the skin with moisture for bouncy, hydrated skin.
• Bisabolol and Ginger Blend, a combination that possesses antioxidant properties and provides skin with a more even tone, combating the appearance of redness.
• All ingredients are vegan and cruelty-free.
• The product packaging components are made from recyclable materials, not to mention the packing peanuts are biodegradable.
• 150 MG OF CBD
  
• Certificate of Analysis that lets you see exactly what’s in each product (and more importantly, what’s not)
  

Phew, now that was a mouthful! So what are you waiting for? It's time to get your Happy Dance on with some CBD and Kristen Bell, they both will make you happy!

IMPORTANT: Since this product is targeting moms, you probably have the kiddies around when your attempting to have your 'Me time." Hence, please be aware to keep this product out of reach of children. Hemp or cannabidiol use while pregnant or nursing may be harmful. Consult your doctor before using if you are pregnant or nursing, have a medical condition or take pharmaceutical drugs. Take precaution when using multiple hemp or cannabidiol products at the same time or together.

Stem Cells And Snail Mucus, Bizzaire Skincare Ingredients That Really Work

 

 

As a beauty editor, it is my job to stay on top of all things BEAUTYful, especially in the skincare and aesthetic industry. This niche is one of my favorites for advancements in skincare, whether with at-home skincare gadgets, cosmetic treatments, or cutting-edge skincare ingredients.

And today, I am going to be talking about two buzz-worthy and slightly bizarre skincare ingredients that have intrigued me. One is stem cells, and the other is snail mucus, aka snail mucin. Now I know the first thought to many when you hear this is the thought of some crazy horror movie. But there is nothing scary here.

For this post, I partnered up with Glowyskin.Care to try out some Shidoa skincare products that included these two buzziest skincare ingredients.

So, if you want to find out why you need to add snail slime and stem cells to your skincare routine, continue reading about "Stem Cells And Snail Mucus, Advanced Skincare Ingredients And How They Work"

Snail Slime Has Slid Into Skincare
Snail mucus, also known as snail mucin, is one of the most trusted skincare ingredients in the K-beauty world. And while there may be an initial yuck factor involved, you will soon be sure to get over that when you hear about all of the tremendous anti-aging benefits that snail mucin can offer.

What The Heck Is Snail Mucin, And Where Does It Come From
Snail slime began with the ancient Greeks and was later rediscovered by Chilean farmers who noticed their hands were softer after touching snail secretion. So what the heck is slithering skincare substance? Simply put, it’s the excretion that snails naturally create to protect themselves. It's made up of properties like glycoproteins, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid all of which have long-documented benefits for the skin. And no worries, there are various “cruelty-free” methods of snail production and slime extraction, making it widely acceptable in the skincare industry.

The Many Benefits Of Snail Mucin For The Skin
This powerful ingredient is a multitasker skincare ingredient. It can do so much, all while helping your other skincare ingredients to penetrate the skin further. See some of the many benefits of snail slime for the skin below.

Snail Mucin Promotes Collagen Production: Snail mucin is secreted when the snail feels stressed. It consists of natural growth factors meant to repair and protect by triggering collagen production and new cell growth.

Snail Mucin Moisturizes The Skin: Fitting the name, snail slime is highly moisturizing and is fantastic at repairing damaged, dehydrated skin.

Snail Mucin Soothes Skin Irritation: Snail secretion contains Allantoin, a healing component that calms and smooths the skin while stimulating cell regeneration.

Snail Mucin Is Enriched With Vitamins, Minerals, And Antioxidants: Microfiltrate snail slime contains peptides, which are great at aiding in collagen production while minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. It also includes antioxidants such as vitamins A and E, which are a must to helping restore the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

CLICK HERE TO START SHOPPING AND SAVING

So Where Can I Find Skincare Products With Microfiltrate Snail Slime
As mentioned earlier, I partnered up with Glowyskin.Care to try out some of their Shidoa skincare products. If you're looking to use snail mucin as a multi-purpose anti-ager, try Shidoa Snail & Hyaluronic Face Cream. This product contains other well-known active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid- a star skincare ingredient naturally occurring in the human body.

Hyaluronic acid attracts up to 1000 times its weight in moisture; add that to the snail slime, and you are in for an ultra-moisturizing treatment that helps to keep skin hydrated, plump, and more radiant. It even visibly softens fine lines and wrinkles without breaking the bank.

Stem Cells For Younger Looking Skin
Yep, this is another brilliant, must-have skincare ingredient that dermatologists have raved about for years for antiaging.  But no worries, unlike stem cells used to treat medical issues, you will not be rubbing someone's stem cells on your face, as the stem cells I am talking about are derived from plants.

Similar to human stem cells, plant stem cells contain proteins and amino acids, two powerhouse ingredients for skin rejuvenation. And according to  Dr. Michele Green, board-certified dermatologist, stem cells naturally have antioxidant properties that nourish skin cells, promoting cell turnover and increasing collagen production and elastin.  

If there is a magic potion that can delay skin aging and protect it from further damage, it is a powerful antioxidant. Not only are they super anti-inflammatory, but they’re also excellent at neutralizing, repairing, and preventing free radical damage (the number one cause for premature aging).

How To Incorporate Stem Cells Into Your Skincare Routine
Now that you understand how stem cells and antioxidants can serve as a line of defense against free radical damage, it's time to start guarding your skin with some stem cell skincare products like Shidoa Stem Cell Face Cream.

This face cream is excellent at protecting your face from external factors and creates a more youthful look because it goes into the skin’s cellular level.  Delivering moisture and reparative agents to where they need to go.

A Bonus Tip: Dead skin cells lay on the top of the skin and act as a barrier against skincare products. Hence for better results of your Shidoa Stem Cell face cream, I suggest exfoliating to remove any dead skin cells creating an unobstructed pathway to the layers of your skin.

Show Your Eyes Some Love With A Stem Cell Eye Cream
You look in the mirror, and what are those crinkly areas around the eyes that you see? Crow's feet! While we may say the eyes are the windows to our souls, they present a clear picture of something else; premature aging, as unfortunately, this thin, delicate skin around the eyes is one of the first to show signs of aging.

But no worries as Shidoa Stem Cells Eye Contour is here to the rescue. This 100% natural stem cell eye cream has been created with an extraordinary AM and PM formula, which is indicated to help firm and tighten the delicate eye area while helping to smooth the appearance of crow’s feet and fine lines for a more awake, lifted complexion.   

For ultimate results I like to keep this eye cream in my skincare fridge. Not only does storing this eye cream in the fridge help it to last longer, but the cooling sensation is perfect for bagging puffiness and brightening a tired appearance.

So there you have it, some bizarre skincare ingredients that actually work! Add that to bee and snake venom, magnetic clay, cactus oil, Cica and I think I've more than dipped my toe in some unique skincare ingredients.

Have you tried any unusual skincare ingredients? If so, let me know below. Until next time!

                                                                

Prickly Pear Cactus The Must-Have Skincare Ingredient

 

A bit contradictive that something derived from a plant named Prickly Pear Cactus can be highly moisturizing and soothing to the skin and a must-have skincare ingredient. But this potent luxury cactus ingredient is quickly gaining popularity in the skincare realm. Not only is it brimming with antioxidants and vitamins that help with fighting free radicals and free radical damage, but it is also enriched with amino acids that are amazing at stimulating collagen production.

But what is this anti-aging cactus ingredient all about? Continue below to find out why Prickly Pear Cactus IS The Must-Have Skincare Ingredient.

Let's Put Cactus On Our Face
Well, I'm not suggesting rubbing the outside of the cactus on your face, but the goodies inside are a skin-loving elixir. Like how the inside of an aloe plant is magical, the same goes with a prickly pear cactus, with the precious oil found in its seeds.

Prickly pear isn't only used for beauty products. Its fruit can be eaten and is actually a common ingredient in a cocktail. Yep, if you have ever drank a Prickly Pear Martini, we're talking about the same plant. 

What Are The Benefits Of Prickly Pear Seed Oil For The Skin

To help us understand all the benefits prickly pear has for the skin, I partnered up with Magsofter, creator of popular 100% pure, organic prickly pear fast-absorbing cactus seed oil. One reason I Magsofter's prickly pear oil is that it is not mixed with other ingredients like some other brands will do.

This Mediterranean ingredient, also known as barbary fig, is exceptionally high in essential fatty acids (omegas 3, 6, and 9). Furthermore, it nourishes the skin as it contains a high linoleic acid content known to calm dehydrated skin. And of course, as I mentioned earlier, it is packed with antioxidants which are a must to protect the skin against environmental stressors and promote cellular turnover. Oh, and if that wasn't enough, these tiny magic seeds found inside the prickly pear cactus also contain vitamin K, promoting elasticity and suppleness in the skin as well as some other prickly pear oil benefits, uses, and tips. 

The Prickly Pear And Its Natural Anti-aging Properties

• Goodbye pores as prickly pear oil has essential fatty acids that hydrate the collagen layer of skin and help minimize pores' appearance.  
• Prickly pear oil is excellent for those with hyperpigmentation. I can't attest to this as I do not have any dark spots. But it may be something to also try for those dark under-eye circles?
• Anti-inflammatory, barrier-boosting, retaining moisture, for highly hydrated skin.
• They are packed with vitamin B, beta carotene, and iron, helping the skin maintain health and appearance while increasing its defenses against UV radiation and oxidative stress.
• Works fantastic with Retinols or Vitamin C, which might otherwise irritate the face.
• Repairs. Many have been using prickly pear for years to treat problems such as rosacea, scars, stretch marks, and calming sensitive skin conditions to help treat eczema and psoriasis. It is even great for soothing sunburnt skin!!
  

Sum It Up For Us Barbie's Beauty Bits
Prickly pear seed oil sounds like a fantastic anit-aginng skincare ingredient, doesn't it? Well, some other great news I'd like to share about this buzz-worthy ingredient is that it is cold-pressed made in the purest form possible, which means you are getting a potent dose of this prickly pear extract as a skincare product.

I guess it is true when they say great things come in small packages as it takes one ton of prickly pear to get a liter of organic prickly pear oil found in Magsofter cactus seed oil!

How To Treat Your Forty-Year Old Skin Using Clay

As you age, your skincare routine will need to change. As what you did in your 30's will not cut it in your 40's. While 40 may be the new 30, your skin requires even more attention during this decade despite how young you feel. And there is one secret anti-aging ingredient that has slipped under the radar for too long: clay.

So if you want to find out how to pamper your forty-year-old skin using clay skincare products, continue reading.

Aging Is A Fact Of Life. But Looking Your Age Is Not
I did not come up with that, but it is one of our favorite skincare quotes. Changes are inevitable that will take place in our skin over time. For starters, our forties represent a time for many changes in our skin and will call for a different skincare regimen. For example:

• The collagen loss that started in your 30s has accelerated, and the elasticity of the skin decreases. Both can lead to the start of fine lines, like those pesky 11's between your eyes or those crow's feet starting to show around the eye area.
• Reduced volume of hyaluronic acid, responsible for retaining water in the dermis, this is a  cause for dry, dull, lackluster skin.
• Sebaceous glands produce less oil as you age. Resulting in dry, wrinkled skin.
• Free radicals start doing damage to fatty tissue, DNA, and proteins in the skin, causing oxidative stress.
  

Skincare Is Like Dieting. You Have To Invest Time And Effort. There Is Not Magical Cure
Yes, while there is no magic wand to stop the clock, there is a surprising skincare ingredient that can help your skin look more youthful, which is clay.  I say surprising, as most people think of anti-aging key ingredients, like stabilized vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol. But not clay. When most think of clay in skincare, they think of a clay mask or a scrub used for those with oily skin or acne. But the truth is clay skincare products come in many different types. Some can even refine your skin's surface so that aging skin looks more radiant, nourished, and smooth.

Why You Should Use Clay In Your Skincare Regimen
The use of clay for topical healing and internal medicinal uses traces back to ancient history. Clay as medicine has been referenced as far back as ancient Rome.

Fast forward to today, clay is still being used, but a lot more in skincare because of its anti-bacterial and anti-aging properties helping your skin to look more youthful and glowing by:

• Detoxifying And Purifying The Skin
• Regulating Sebum Production
• Rejuvenating The Skin
• Improving Skintone
• Oxygenating The Cells
• Unclogging And Shrinking Pores
  

How To Use Clay In Your Skincare Routine
Now that you know about the many benefits that clay can have to promote youthful skin in your forties, check out some cruelty-free clay skincare products you should be using from Zion Health. I was first introduced to this brand when trying to find an aluminum free natural deodorant, that actually worked. And now I am sharing some of their amazing all natural skincare products! Aside from helping with anti-aging I also love that these products are all vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and gluten-free. 

Anti-Stress Deep Pore Cleansing Mask
One sure way to aging skin is stress. When we are stressed, there is an increase in our cortisol levels (stress hormone). And with the days of COVID, more people are exposed to more stress. Many will start to see these telltale signs associated with stress: pimples, redness, inflammation, dullness, unevenness, and we can't forget about bouts of MASKNE~ With a growing list of stress-induced skin problems, it’s time to upgrade your skincare routine and indulge in a masking experience that is specifically targeted to reduce inflammation, eliminate blemishes, and other skin issues brought on from stress.

Unwind from the grind by treating your skin to a much-needed escape with this ancient clay deep pore cleansing mask. This mask utilizes clay and willow bark-sourced salicylic acid (2%) to exfoliate the skin on a superficial level to cleanse pores, regulate oil production, and combat acne. Furthermore, this vegan clay mask is excellent at helping to fight the signs of aging with powerful ingredients like:

• Green Tea Extract helping it to combat free radical damage and collagen breakdown.
•  Cucumber Extract contains rejuvenating proteins, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, promoting cellular turnover.
• Glycerin the secret ingredient to defeating hydration. It is a humectant, meaning it attracts moisture from the air into your skin's top layer and holds it there!

Hydration Is Key
No matter your age, a hydrating moisturizer is always a must. For your 40s, you need to be using a paraben-free mineral moisturizer with soothing extracts and anti-oxidants to hydrate, promote collagen production, balance PH, brighten skintone, and fight the visible signs of aging.

I suggest Zion Health's Mineral Moisture Daily Lotion enriched with Ionic Clay Minerals and more than 57 Trace Minerals to help balance your skin's Ph!  An unbalanced PH can cause premature aging~ and I sure do not want that. 

Zions Hydrating Vegan Mango Clay Mask
Renew and protect your skin in a matter of minutes. This hydrating clay mask is ideal for those whose skin is producing less oil. In your forties, you'll want to preserve your skin's natural hydrating functions and encourage moisture retention. This all natural clay mask offers a detoxing and strengthening experience by providing an array of vitamins and fatty acids to smooth complexion and uncover its natural radiance.

Aside from Mango butter, that helps prevent the buildup of damaging free radicals. This mask has some nourishing paraben-free ingredients that I love: Shea Butter, for starters, is a proven moisturizer that fights dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles without clogging pores. This mask also contains

• Glycerin
• Two oils
• Three different clays
• More than 57 trace ​​​​minerals that are calming and clarifying agents to help stimulate skin cell renewal and perfect pH levels.
  

Brighten The Skin With Pumpkin And Red Clay
If you are looking for a way to perk up that dry, dull skin, red clay is here to the rescue. While we've seen all clays are great for our forty-year-old skin, the high levels of iron oxide in red clay make it beneficial for purifying, brightening, and strengthening the skin. Add that to the fruit enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) found in pumpkin, and you are on your way to increasing cell turnover while brighten and smoothing that forty-year-old skin. Oh and this vegan pumpkin mud mask smells good enough to eat!!!

If you’re interested in some amazing all natural clay products to show your forty-year-old skin some TLC, now you can with 10% OFF using code: Barbie

Start Shopping NOW  

 

 

What The Heck Is Cica- A Guide To The Miracle K-Beauty Skincare Ingredient

 

Tis, the season to gift and glow, and Skincare With Cica is here to help. But what the heck is Cica, and why is Cica considered the miracle K-beauty skincare ingredient?

Cica is short for Centella Asiatica and is a medical plant that has been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The Cica plant is known for its healing capabilities, which is why it is one of the hottest skincare ingredients when it comes to K-Beauty.

This leafy green herb is more than just an old wives' tale of healing and that tigers would rub their wounds to help their skin regenerate. There are Cica studies where researchers found that the Centella Asiatica extract facilitates the healing of incisions and burns. No wonder it has made its way into skincare products. But what exactly does this miracle skincare ingredient do, and is it worth the hype?

The Benefits Of Cica And Skincare

Aside from the ability that Cica has in rebuilding the skin barrier, it has a plethora of other skin-loving benefits, from toning the skin, boosting collagen, aiding in cellular repair, protecting the skin from free radicals to reducing fine lines and wrinkles!  In addition to this, Cica is full of nutrients that are beneficial to the skin, like beta-carotene, amino acids, niacin, and vitamins A, B1, B2, and C, all that are amazing at moisturizing and brightening the skin! Just what you need this holiday season! 

Furthermore, when looking for skincare products infused with Centella Asiatica, you want to look for products that you leave on the skin. For example, Cica Serums, Cica Sheet Masks, and Cica Moisturizers.

Now we know what you're thinking: Where can I purchase skincare with Cica in it, and how do I use it? Well, no worries beauties as we have an amazing K-beauty skincare line that you are going to love!

Meebak Skincare The Hottest K-Beauty Skincare Line
One brand that I was recently introduced to is Meebak (pronounced Me Back) Skincare. I was so impressed with the skincare line, which prompted me to share with you the benefits of Cica as this is Meebak's star ingredient, along with other quality ingredients backed by both nature and science. The brand is also free of harmful ingredients like parabens and sulfates, and they never, ever test on animals!

Meebak's Cica Holiday Gift Sets
A gift set? Yes, beauties, you read, right! Just in time for the holiday season, Meebak offers a Holiday Skincare Kit containing their top CICA skincare products. A must-have gift for that skincare lover in your life. See the items below that are included in the kit!

• 1 Cica Mask
• Cica Misting Toner, 1.7 fl oz.
• Cica & Vitamin C Serum, 1.01 fl oz
• Cica Eye Cream, 1.01 fl oz
• Cica Cream, 1.68 fl. oz.
  

Anti-aging Cica Face Cream
Meebak's cica cream is a rich anti-aging cream that calms, smooths, and moisturizes with cica's healing and soothing properties. It is great for anti-aging as it helps to protect the skin from free radicals that can cause premature aging.

Cica Sheet Mask
This sheet mask is a must for glowing holiday skin. It is incredible for hydrating and brightening the skin for a dewy, glowing complexion.

Eye Cream Infused With Cica
Too much holiday cheer? Well, now you can bag those puffy eyes with this nourishing eye cream. This  eye cream also promotes skin barrier function!

Mist Me Baby With The Cica Hydrating Toner
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration, Baby! This toner that doubles as a mist is made with a soothing formula designed to provide calming relief to even the most sensitive dry winter skin. Toners are a must to protect the skin against free radicals. They are also fantastic for prepping the skin for better absorption of moisturizers and serums. Speaking of serums, that brings us to the next product, the Cica Serum, infused with Vitamin C.

Cica & Vitamin C Serum
We saved the best for last, and I so love this serum!!! This brightening serum with Cica and Vitamin C restores the moisture barrier in dry, irritated skin and infuses essential nutrients deep into its layers to reveal a lit-from-within look. It is a must to keep your skin hydrated and radiant all winter long!

So what are you waiting for beauties?

Stock up NOW with 30% OFF!