3 Effective Ways To Deal With Uneven Skin Tone

Uneven skin tone, called hyperpigmentation (the irregular darkening of the skin) is a big beauty problem that a lot of women have to deal with, especially with those over forty. Not only can it make you feel self-conscious, but it can also become very frustrating if it is not taken care of properly.

But fret no more as I am here to share with you "Three Effective Ways To Deal With Uneven Skintone." Now before I get into some of the ways to treat your uneven skin tone, I think it is essential to understand some of the causes, as the treatments that you choose depends on the cause of the problem!  And once you have identified the issue, you can start looking for some custom skin care products which deal with those specific issues.

What Causes An Uneven Skin Tone
There are three leading causes of uneven skin tone.

• Sun damage
• Estrogen levels
• Swelling from acne

If your uneven skin tone is caused by sun damage or swelling from acne, the dark areas will become confined to circles, but if estrogen levels cause them, they're likely to spread further.

If sun damage is a problem, it's essential that you are using the right protection whenever you go outside and if acne is causing uneven skin tone, you need a good cleanser to stop dirt building up in your pores.

Lastly, an increase in hormones can cause Hormone-related hyperpigmentation. Most who experience this are either pregnant or taking birth control, just something to keep in mind. 

Treatments To Achieve An Even Skin Tone
I want to first start by saying you do not need to spend an arm and a leg for a laser treatment or a prescription that you can only get from a plastic surgeon or aesthetics office.  As the tips I am sharing today you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

Makeup
I'm listing this as makeup is one of the first things people think of, but honestly, you need to treat the problem before applying makeup! Why you may ask? Well, although makeup can work wonders, it can only do so much, and sometimes if you are not choosing the correct makeup, you can make the situation worse, but highlighting your imperfections. Yuk, I know!

Apply SPF Daily
While the sun is beautiful, it is not always friendly to our skin, especially if you are going in it unprotected!  And if you are like me in my younger years, I never wore an SPF, which is the number one beast behind hyperpigmentation. The goal is to apply a moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30 at all times and all seasons of the year.

Exfoliate
Old dead skin cell build-up is a significant reason for the skin to look dull, rough, and dry.  When we exfoliate, we can remove that build-up of old dead skin revealing the new skin cell. Another bonus when we eliminate this dead skin, it also aides moisturizers and other skincare products to penetrate more deeply into the skin, allowing them to work at their best.

Ways To Exfoliate The Skin

Skin Peels
Most of the skin cells with the darker pigment are going to be sitting on the top layer of the skin, so a chemical peel can be an excellent way to reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone drastically. However, you should stay away from bleaching peels that claim to immediately minimize uneven skin tone because they aren't effective and they are not very good for your skin. Repeated use of a normal skin peel will give you better long term results.

Microdermabrasion
I love me a great Microdermabrasion, as it is a great way to remove that top layer of skin and reduce your uneven skin tone. Most treatments use fine crystals to remove the top layer of the skin gently. And while you can go to a salon to do this, it can be timely and costly, which is why I love home kits that you can use to do it yourself.  Not only will you be saving money, but the results can be just as good. And if you use it regularly, you should see a reduction in uneven skin tone and an improvement in the overall appearance of your skin.

Bottom line beauties, while uneven skin tone can be tricky, if you follow these steps, you should be able to deal with it effectively.  Until Next Time!

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How Can Diamond CBD And CBD Oil Help With Anxiety

How Can Diamond CBD And CBD Oil Help With Anxiety

Yes, this is a question that many ask… “How Can CBD Oil Help With Anxiety,” especially with the hectic lives most of us live, stress and anxiety are becoming a bigger problem in society. The expression stress kills has taken a whole new level over the years. Many people are looking for some relief, which is why some of the big pharmaceutical companies have been pumping out tons of drugs to help treat some anxiety-related disorders.  While these are very helpful for some, not everyone is favorable of taking these.

I am one of the non-favorable ones for some personal reason, which is why I focus on some self-help ways to manage and possibly reduce stress and anxiety, by implementing some at home remedies like Exercise, journaling, laughing, yoga, personal time, therapy, and vacationing. In addition to these self-help activities, I have found a benefit in something else, which is CBD Oil. I’m sure many of you have read or at least heard about CBD oil, as it is really having a moment in the wellness realm!

According to a 2018 cross-sectional study of CBD users, “anxiety” ranks as one of the top reasons for consuming the cannabis-derived products, along with pain.

So, considering that a lot of us are suffering from some form of anxiety, about 40 million adults age 18 or older (according to the ADAA), CBD may come as welcome relief.

What The Heck Is CBD And Does It Get You High
There are many searches on the internet, asking, “What is CBD Oil” and “Does CBD Oil Get You High.” And I am going to answer those for you!

CBD is a cannabinoid that is extracted from cannabis. Like any other plant species, cannabis comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. One group of cannabis strains is called hemp. Hemp is also known as industrial hemp or agricultural hemp, and unlike the strains referred to as marijuana, hemp is used for building materials, textiles, and food.

And there just happens to be strains of hemp that are high in CBD and have negligible amounts of THC.

Until recently, the best-known compound and active ingredient in cannabis were THC. However, Marijuana contains both THC and CBD, and these compounds have entirely different effects.

The THC that is found in cannabis is what creates the mind-altering "high" when heat is applied to, and a person smokes or uses it in cooking. This is because the THC breaks down when it encounters the hot temperature.

CBD-rich hemp is different. Unlike THC, it has no psychoactive effect. This means that CBD does not change a person's state of mind when they use it — hence allowing the consumer to enjoy the benefits of CBD without the risk of getting high.

How Can CBD Oil Help With Anxiety
So, now that you know what the heck CBD is, how can it help with anxiety? Well, before I get into this, please keep in mind I am not a medical professional, and what I am sharing with you is for informational purposes only.

But, CBD, unlike some of the pharmaceutical drugs out there that can be highly addictive, is more tolerated with its powerful anti-anxiety properties.

Multiple studies suggest that CBD is a potent anti-inflammatory that is also neuro-calming. So not only does this cannabidiol make people feel better, but it also can change the way their brains responded to anxiety by boosting the serotonin levels and thereby reducing stress.

But the bottom line is it's important to remember that CBD is a diet supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. So, check with your doctor for medical advice.

Which CBD Oils Should I Use For Anxiety?
There are tons of products out there. One brand I like is Diamond CBD. I’ve used a variety of their products, even ones for my pets!

Diamond CBD has a wide selection of products. I have personally used their CBD oils (CBD tinctures or CBD oral drops), that range from 10 mg up to 3500 mg.  These oils are both flavored and unflavored all in which are non-GMO, THC free, pesticide free and made in the USA.

I like flavored CBD products and boy do they have a large variety, including 19 flavors to choose. From fruit and dessert to candy and drinks, they have you covered.

Another thing I like about this brand is that they offer more than just the traditional CBD oil, they also have a selection to include:

• CBD Honey Tincture
• MCT Oil
• CBD with Hemp Seed Oil
• CBD with Olive Oil
• And we can’t forget about the convenient, travel-sized, CBD dropper; you can take with you on the go.

The Best CBD Oils
No matter how you like to consume your CBD — with a vape, by tincture, or on the go dropper, we've rounded up a few of our current favorite CBD products to help with anxiety, including a cotton candy flavor!

Relax Full Spectrum CBD Oil - 550mg
An OIL TINCTURE
Relax Full Spectrum CBD Oil, delivers the ideal amount of CBD to meet all your wellness needs. Made in the USA from 100% high-quality industrial hemp, this 550 mg bottle of CBD is perfect for those wanting to combat stress, anxiety, and chronic pain.

With just a single droplet or two placed underneath the tongue for quick and easy absorption into the bloodstream, this full spectrum CBD oil provides consumers with the most effective form for consumption of high-quality full-spectrum CBD.

Daily Boost CBD Oil - Blue Dream 1000MG Formula
On The Go Dropper
Enjoy this convenient, travel-sized, CBD dropper anywhere you go!  The Daily Boost Blue Dream 1000mg Formula CBD tincture is a sublingual CBD oil that is MCT oil based and infused with cannabidiol (CBD). This high-quality CBD oil is made in America and scientifically formulated with 33mg of CBD oil per dose.

Liquid Gold- Strawberry
Vaping Pen
Liquid Gold CBD Vaping Pen with delicious Strawberry flavored e-liquid is the ready-to-use CBD liquid vaping stick that’s a great CBD alternative.

The Liquid Gold CBD Oil Vaping Pen comes charged up, ready to go and good for up to 200 Puffs.

Cotton Candy Flavor Diamond CBD Oil
Did someone say cotton candy? Yes, not only is it a hemp oil cotton candy flavored but it is a high-end CBD Tincture oil which is infused with premium CBD rich hemp oil that also can be used as vapor-liquid!

So, there you have it beauties my tips on how CBD oil can help with anxiety, until next time.

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What The Heck Is In Prenatal Vitamins And When Should I Be Taking Them

If you are pregnant or are trying to conceive (TTC), I'm sure the question about whether you should take prenatal vitamins is running through your head.

While maintaining or implementing a healthy diet during your pregnancy is essential, you may not get all of the essentials nutrients your body needs and this is where a prenatal vitamin can step in to help fill the gaps.  Heck, even some of us non-pregnant women have taken them every once in a while.

So, What The Heck Is In Prenatal Pills And Why Should YOU Be Taking Them? Well, if you want to find out, continue reading!

For this post, I partnered up with Morning Pep and a local OBGYN. However, because I am not a medical professional, I do recommend consulting with a physician or midwife first.

When Should You Start To Take Prenatal Vitamins
Yes, you may have been asking yourself when to start taking prenatal vitamins? Well, according to my OBGYN, you should start taking a prenatal vitamin during TTC, to help kickstart your body. But not all pregnancies are planned so as soon as you find out that you are pregnant, start taking them!

What To Look For In A Prenatal Vitamin
As with anything in life, not all things are created equal, and this goes for prenatal vitamins. So, listen to your Doctors recommendations. While some may suggest a specific brand, most will leave it up to you to select a particular one, like the prenatal vitamin from Morning Pep.

Now before I get into what Morning Pep has to offer with their prenatal vitamins, there are a few musts that you need to make sure a prenatal vitamin contains, according to Dr. Leoa. See them below and the importance they play on the body.

Folic Acid: This is a vitamin B and is a must to take when you are pregnant. Some even say it is a pregnancy superhero as it is supposed to help prevent neural tube defects, like a brain and spinal cord defects.

Calcium & Vitamin D: We put these together as they are great for bone strength and growth, especially later in your pregnancy.

Iron: This is not only great for the babies growth and development, but it can help to prevent you from becoming anemic during your pregnancy.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: This is important to help to promote the baby's brain development, however not all prenatal vitamins have this, so your Dr. may recommend that you take an omega three supplement.

Bottom line, it is essential to remember that prenatal vitamins need to be combined with a healthy diet. They are not a substitute for not eating well, and proper nutrition is key to a healthy pregnancy and baby, so plan accordingly.

Morning Pep All In One Prenatal Vitamin
Since I am not pregnant, I can't tell you how these vitamins make me feel like I do with most products on my website. But, I was very impressed that their formula was food based and rich in all the essential nutrients for expecting and nursing mothers as well as….

• Aiding in Morning Sickness And Nausea
• The Folic Acid Comes In The Form of L-Methyl Folate, The Most Bioavailable And Easily Absorbed Form of Folic Acid Or Folate.
• Tablets Are Odorless And Tasteless, So You Do Not Experience Any Side Effects Like Nausea, etc.
• Includes 25 MG of A Superior Blend of PROBIOTICS & ENZYMES And 800 MCG of Folic Acid (Folate).
• Supports A Healthy Pregnancy, Breast Health, Healthy Estrogen Levels And The Immune System.
• May Help Support Hormone-Related Mood Swings.
• Is Manufactured And Packaged In The USA

How Long Should I Take Prenatal Vitamins?
You should be taking these during your entire pregnancy. Some physicians even recommend that you continue taking them after your baby is born, especially for those that are breastfeeding.


Where To Buy And Save Money
Did we say saving money? Yes, we did as we know saving money at this time in our lives is essential. Which is why Morning Pep was kind enough to offer all of my followers 10% on Morning Pep Prenatal Vitamins 4 Month Supply. Simply use the code: BARBIESBEAUTYBITS at checkout to start saving!

Beauty Guide To Getting You Beach Ready - With Tempt Me Swimsuits

Summer is right around the corner, which means the beach, boats, shorts, sandals, tank tops and of course a bathing suit.  But are you ready to sport those shorts, that bikini and show the world your feet, feeling and looking confident?  Well, if not, don't worry as I have partnered up with Tempt Me to share with you my "Beauty Guide To Getting You Beach Ready."

Beach Beauty Tips

Find What "Suits" You Best
The first tip is to finding the right bathing suit, whether a one-piece or a bikini it can be a daunting task and Tempt Me Swimsuit is here to help.

Tempt Me is an international renowned online swimsuit retailer, which specializes in providing  ladies with unique designed swimsuits. They have women's bathing suits for all body types to make you feel more confident and charming.

It is essential when shopping that you are choosing a swimsuit that fits your body type, this works for most of your other summer wardrobe as well, doing so is going to allow you to feel more confident in the way you look.  No matter your size there is a bathing suit that will work well with your body.  The key is to find styles that flatter you and stick with that; this is not a one style for all!!!

I love the variety of styles that Tempt Me Swimsuit has from off the shoulder two piece suits, to high waisted retro bathing suits, vintage one piece suits, and even high neck one pieces! Their swimsuits are fun, unique, flattering and their pricing is fantastic, most suits are $25 or less. This is unheard, especially for ones that are so cute and trendy.

Check out some of my favorite bathing suit styles below and if you see one you like, Tempt Me has been kind enough to offer all of my readers 10% Off Your Purchase.

The second tip when selecting the perfect bathing suit is to get an opinion from someone that you know will be 100% honest.  Thankfully, I have some very blunt friends and of course, my mom will never sugar coat.  I would not advise asking your significant other to help you shop.  For one they may not always be honest as they don't want to hurt your feelings and secondly, they may be focusing on specific body parts instead of looking at your overall appearance. 

Treat Your Toes
Those feet have been cooped up for months, so let them loose. With summer in the air, the shining sun, it's time to show off those feet and toes, but make sure they are ready! One of the best ways to revive your feet and toes is with a pedicure. Because when your feet feel good, your whole body feels refreshed and energized.

Smooth Summer Skin
There's nothing more beautiful than the confidence that comes with smooth, radiant skin and this goes for your bikini line as well! And do I have the product for you to help remove those itty bitty and stubborn hairs… Nair™ Wax Ready-Strips for Bikini & Face!

Say goodbye to showing your private area to the salon and hello to a mess-free, easy, and no expertise required, waxing you can do in the comfort of your home! Plus, you'll be saving money!!! 

Protection
I love Summertime, weather! However, it doesn't always love us back, especially when it comes to our hair and skin. Every year, people suffer from the results of the sizzling summer sun. From sunburns to damaged hair, the sun wreaks havoc upon us in many ways. See below some ways to protect yourself from the blazing sun.

• Skin And Eyes
  Protecting your skin is essential, hence using a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is a must and make sure you are protecting your eyes with some sunglasses!
• Covering Your Hair
  When at the beach, I always wear a hat to protect my hair from the hot UV rays of the sun that can damage my hair.  Additionally, the salt water can turn my blond hair brassy, and that is the last thing I need after spending all that money to lighten my hair.

Exercise And Diet Tips To Getting You Bikini Ready
Staying active is so important, and let's be honest, some of us may not be all so happy with our winter bodies, especially our midsection. One significant contributor to belly fat is the evil culprit...SUGAR! While I do not eat sweets, I do consume a few bottles of wine a week.  Therefore, I need to be implementing some quick ways to banishing belly fat, with some of the tips I have listed below.

 7 Tips To Banishing The Belly Fat

1. Eat low carbohydrate foods with low sugar... You want to stay away from foods that can raise your insulin level.
2. Look for foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, as well as low in fat and calories.
3. Excessive sodium can create 'false fat,' making you look bloated and up to 9 pounds heavier than your actual weight, WTH? So a trick to helping with that is to add raw apple cider vinegar to your diet.
4. Sleep well and avoid stress. Stress causes you to crave sugary food.
5. Take a daily walk. Try to walk for 30 mins. a day.
6. Implement some high interval training into your workout.
7. Try some burning belly exercises, like planks and all types of crunches.

Stay Hydrated
Make sure you are drinking plenty of water! This is one thing I am not good at, but drinking plenty of water will help hydrate and give your hair and skin the internal moisture it needs to look and feel healthy. And when you feel good, you will be surer of yourself. There is a great recipe here for detox water.

So, there you have it, our beauty guide to helping you to be summer & bikini ready! As you can see a little pre-planning will ensure that your day on the beach, or at the pool for that matter, can now be about unwinding, having fun, while remaining confident all summer long! And if all that wasn't good enough, we also are going to give you a kick start with 10% Off your Bikini or Bathing Suit purchase at Tempt Me Swimsuits, with code BARBIESBEAUTYBITS