Final Ecocentric Mom Review

 

Yes, sadly, this will be my last Ecocentric Mom review. I have had such a great time being a part of the expert blogger team and receiving goodies to review and share with you, but my time has come to move on. This past year was a very busy one and after some R&R this Summer, I’ve realized the need to slow down a bit. With a new school year around the corner, I am looking forward to new projects and responsibilities. However, the focus on my priorities and time management will be much clearer. Family comes first and Ecocentric Mom has played a big role for me in making sure I do not forget that.

As a busy mom it can be difficult to find the time to ensure you are providing your family (and yourself!) with the healthiest and safest options. That’s where Ecocentric Mom subscription boxes can help. Every other month you will get a box of organic, natural and healthy products right at your doorstep. You can discover and learn about some of the healthiest snacks, safest bath products and cosmetics, and so much more.

Being a Birth and Postpartum Doula, I want to make sure I keep up-to-date with what’s out there for new moms and little ones too. So, without further ado, check out the great products I received in my July/August “Mom-to-Be” Ecocentric Mom Box…..

Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Cream Foundation ~ this has become one of my favorite make-up lines thanks to Ecocentric Mom. I’ve tried their lipstick and glosses and love them. While I’m not a foundation fan, this stuff works great….super lightweight, all-natural and contains SPF-28. I received a 3 pack travel size worth $1.40.

Savannah Red Lip Balm ~ this balm comes in a variety of flavors. I received the Beautiful Sugar and love how it smells. Best of all, the natural and organic ingredients leave my lips feeling so soft. One tube of lip balm sells for $2.99. I also received a 20% online discount code.

Bears Beauty Belly Balm ~ This organic skincare line will be a great recommendation for my doula clients. Hand-made, chemical free and made with organic hemp oil, this vegan belly balm is a safe choice for your baby. I received a travel size balm worth $1.50 and a 15% online discount code.

Bathtime Baby Hair & Body Wash ~ Another great recommendation for my doula clients, this baby skincare line is free of parabens, glycols, petroleum, sulfates, fragrances, dyes, and all that toxic stuff that can be harsh and damaging to your baby’s delicate skin. It is made with organic plant and fruit extracts, nourishing vitamins, antioxidants, and other ingredients that are safe and gentle and care for your little one. Bathtime Baby is also made in the U.S.A., is vegan and comes in BPA & Phthalate free packaging. I received a 3 oz. bottle which sells for $7.50, along with a 20% online discount code.

Water Wipes All-Natural Baby Wipes ~ This is the second time I receive Water Wipes in my Ecocentric Mom Box…but I’m not complaining! In fact, they are the brand I recommend the most. These are truly the purest baby wipes ever…made with 99.9% water and just a drop of fruit extract. I received a 10 wipe travel pack which sells for 99 cents. They can now be found at most major retailers, including walgreens.com and diapers.com.

Happy Baby Meal Time Board Book ~ This adorable book would make a great gift for any new mom and baby, especially when it is time to introduce solid foods to your little one. The bright pictures and clever words will keep baby entertained and expose him or her to meal time fun and reading. The board book sells for $9.95.

eInvite Sample Personalized Cards & Stationery ~ I received 5 sample fold top cards and a 20% online discount code which introduced me to eInvite.com. The site offers a great line of personalized stationery. You will find baby related stationary, like shower invitations and birth announcements, all customizable and all made in the USA. Visit http://www.einvite.com for more info.

AROMAFLAGE Botanical Fragrance & Insect Repellent ~ Now that I’m back on the East Coast for the end of Summer and its humidity, I will definitely be putting this to use to keep those pesky mosquitoes away. It is free of synthetic fragrances, parabens and other toxic chemicals. The cedar wood, vanilla, citrus and Vitamin E combination even make it smell good, unlike most natural insect repellents. I received a travel size sample worth $3.75.

The Natural Suburban Spices and Teas ~ I received a sample of “Summer Herb Garden Savory Spice”, as well as “Need a Little Sunshine in my Day Tea.” While I have not used either yet, I love that they are handcrafted, all-organic blends. I also received a 20% online discount code.

Yogavive Apple Chips ~ Last, but certainly not least (considering I opened these first!), I received a regular bag of chocolate flavored apple chips. Not sure if it was the chocolate or the Yoga that caught my attention first. Regardless, this healthy snack is made with USDA certified organic Fuji apples and are 100% fat free…tasty too! A bag sells for $4.49.

There you have it…another box of great finds, thanks to Ecocentric Mom. If you are thinking of signing up for a subscription box service, I highly recommend you give them a try. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

For more information and to subscribe visit the Ecocentric Mom website.

Spa Day with ESSIO

In my March/April Ecocentric Mom Discovery Box, I received a $10 gift card for ESSIO, the world’s first aromatherapy diffuser for the shower. After the past few busy and hectic weeks I’ve had, I was more than excited and willing when they asked me to sample and review their kit for my blog. ESSIO is such a simple, but unique and effective concept. It is also so easy to use! The kit comes with three different scents and they are very simple to install.  The attachment arm simply clips onto your shower head pipe…no tools required. You then take your favorite aromatherapy pod and snap it into place, making sure it falls under the water stream. Just turn on the water and let ESSIO begin to diffuse the rejuvenating essential oils into your shower. It’s such a great way to truly relax and unwind. It is especially great for those of us who are not able to indulge in a nice, long bath. With ESSIO, you can get the same benefits in a short shower.

The starter kit comes with three scents to choose from. The orange pod is called Breathe and consists of Cedarwood Atlas, Peppermint, Lemon, and Eucalyptus. It helps to decongest, clear your sinuses, and clear your mind. It has a very light scent, but I definitely could feel the benefits of the decongestion…especially since we are in full Spring allergy mode over on the East Coast!  The green pod is called Unwind and consists of Orange Sweet, Bergamot, Petitgrain, Lavender, Patchouli, and Vetiver. The Patchouli scent was a bit on the strong side, which I didn’t mind, but my husband was not a fan.  The pink pod is called Passion. It consists of Lavender, Orange Sweet, Palmarosa, Clove, Patchouli, and Cinnamon. Designed to awaken desire and sensuality, this was my favorite of the three. I love the scent and my skin definitely felt radiant after using it. In fact, all three aromatherapy pods left my skin feeling soft and revitalized at the same time. It was such an added bonus to my shower.  During days filled with crazy schedules, it really is great to come home and unwind with an ESSIO Aromatherapy Shower.  It’s like having a spa day in a just a few minutes. BEST of all, ESSIO is made with 100% Organic Essential Oils. I highly recommend adding this to your beauty and skin care regimen, or just regular every day routine.

ESSIO has been featured in People Magazine and the Wall Street Journal among other media outlets. To learn more about their products and order your own start kit, visit the ESSIO Website, or follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

March and April Goodies for Mom

I’ve been enjoying some great new products the past couple of weeks, thanks to my Ecocentric Mom Discovery Box. Every other month I anticipate what new and useful products I’m going to find. With Mother’s Day coming up next month, you should really consider gifting yourself or a special mom in your life a subscription to Ecocentric Mom. Just look at all the amazing things I received in my March/April Box…

2 Degrees Food Bar ~It was a nice treat to find this healthy food bar in my Ecocentric Mom Box. I actually tried one for the first time just a few weeks ago and liked it very much. It’s not just tasty, but also vegan, non-GMO, gluten free and Kosher. The bars are made with Heritage Grains like quinoa, chia and millet. What I like most about 2 Degrees Food is that they donate a meal to a child in need for every bar sold. I received one bar in the Cherry Almond flavor which sells for $1.99.

BrewLeaf Organic Tea ~ I love trying new teas. I received a sample pack of caffeine-free Roman Provence Rooibos Tea by BrewLeaf. The tea leaves smelled fresh and the tea tasted fruity and yummy.  A regular 2 ounce bag can brew up to 25 cups and sells for $6.99 – $8.99. I also received a 20% online discount.

BluApple ~ Another great surprise! I’ve been meaning to purchase something to help my produce last a little longer in the fridge for a while now. BluApple is a safe and effective way to do just that. The apple-shaped blue gadget absorbs the ethylene gas that fruits and veggies emit, allowing them to last up to three times longer. I’m still testing the product out, but after a week my tomatoes still look good! A pack of 2 Bluapples sells for $9.99. I received one BluApple Sample Kit.

Oatmeal Grapefruit Face Wash Powder by Homespun Northwest ~ Talk about literally feeding your skin…this powder is made of ground organic oats, Kaolin clay and grapefruit essential oil. Just a pinch of it mixed in with a little water creates a face wash that is perfect for any skin type. Homespun Northwest also make a variety of natural and vegan, home, baby and other beauty products. I received a travel size of face wash powder which sells for $3.50. A regular 4 ounce size sells for $7 and there is a certified gluten-free version that sells for $8. I also got a 10% online discount code.

House Blend Organics Coconut Body Wash ~ Right now we have everything from coconut oil to coconut cereal in our home. A coconut body wash was very welcomed…and I am loving the House Blend Organics version. It has a nice, light coconut smell and rich lather that leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth. Best of all, its ingredient list simply consists of organic coconut, olive and jojoba oils, along with organic aloe vera and rosemary extract. This makes it a great choice for those suffering from dry skin and/or eczema and other skin issues. A regular 8 oz bottle sells for $14.95. I received a travel size bottle and a 15% online discount code.

MarieNatie All-Natural Lip Gloss ~ This came at the perfect time. I recently lost my favorite lip gloss and this Cotton Candy shade from MarieNatie matches almost perfectly. Best of all, it is free of parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances and dyes, phthalates and petro-chemicals. I’m going to have to check out the rest of the cosmetic line too. A full size lip gloss sells for $18. I received a travel size gloss, which sells for $5, and a 20% discount code.

Treefort Naturals Comfrey Salve ~ This all-purpose salve is sure to come in handy now that the warm weather is setting in and those pesky mosquitos and bug bites are coming back. The Comfrey Salve is handmade with natural and organic ingredients, containing only organic olive oil infused with comfrey and calendula, beeswax, and lavender essential oil. A full size tin sells for $8. I received a travel size tin and a 20% online discount.

Bach Original Flower Remedies ~ This line of natural remedies is a system of 38 plant and flower based essences developed by Dr. Bach. By placing a few drops in your water, you can help manage the emotional demands of everyday life. I received a bottle of Elm which “restores your normal strength and optimism when you are temporarily overwhelmed or burdened by responsibility.” This couldn’t have come at a better time! I’ve been extremely busy lately and counting down to my few days of break for the Easter holiday. Call it coincidence, but after a hectic week and placing a few drops in my water bottle each day, I did not feel as stressed and had a very productive and positive week. J I received a regular size bottle of essence, which sells for $19.98, and a $4 online coupon.

Powernap 2-CD Set ~ Someone is definitely trying to tell me to relax! 😉 I am definitely not much of a napper, but this CD set may convert me. In the first disc, you can choose from 3 long “naps” or two 5 minute programs. Each “nap” ends with chimes and a gentle voice to wake you. The second CD contains 19 songs with guitar and piano melodies that can help you sleep, relax, meditate, or even just get your creativity flowing. I actually plan to incorporate these CDS into the yoga classes I currently teach. The CD set sells for only $9.99.

Eco-Friendly Organic Acai Seed Bead Hair Barrette by Terri Jean’s Adornments ~ My daughter snagged this one from me! The hair barrette is very unique and I love knowing that it was designed with animals, nature and the environment in mind. It’s nice to see the growing trend in jewelry and accessories made with fruit seeds and other eco-friendly materials. One small barrette like this one sells for $5 on Etsy. I also received a 15% discount code.

Sport Suds Laundry Detergent ~ This detergent is formulated to completely get out odor-causing bacteria, oils and dirt from fabrics and leave them free of any residue. Best of all, it is biodegradable, made with natural ingredients and is non-toxic. I have yet to give this laundry detergent a try, but plan to use it this week on the hubby’s gym clothes. I received 2 sample packets and a 20% disount code. Prices for regular size jars, pouches and tubs range from $20.95-$59.95.

Along with discovering so many new and great products, I also received a $10 gift card for ESSIO, the world’s first aromatherapy diffuser for the shower.  Of course, my Ecocentric Mom box would not be complete without the March/April Expert Tips card. It included: Tips for a Safe and Non-Toxic Vacation by Kathy Scoleri and A Healthy and Tasty Lunch Recipe by Alysa Bajenaru.

This Mother’s Day, I highly recommend you give Ecocentric Mom a try. You end up getting so much more than you paid for…and who doesn’t love getting a surprise package in the mail? 😉

Vegan Makes the Cut

I was recently invited to check out a new snack box subscription service…Vegan Cuts. As a former vegan, I was intrigued. Back when I was a vegan, it was rarely heard of and there were not many snack alternatives to conventional brands out on the market. I was curious to see what kinds of things have become available today for vegans. I have to say, I was very surprised to see that there’s a nice variety…enough to start a monthly subscription service! I was even more surprised at just how tasty the snacks were in my sample box. I just might be going vegan again soon. 😉

This is what I received in my Vegan Cuts February Snack Box:

1. Earth Balance Kettle Chips – Cheddar.  The whole family loved these chips. They were my daughters favorite item in the box. Not only are they yummy, but they are made with non-GMO ingredients!

2. The Daily Crave Veggie Chips. There are a few veggie chips out on the market that claim to be all-natural, but actually contain one or two questionable ingredients. The Daily Crave is the real deal. You won’t find anything artificial in these veggie chips. They are 100% vegan, non-GMO, and tasty.

3. Nākd Berry Delight Bar by Natural Balance Foods. This healthy, moist and chewy bar is made with nutritious raw fruits and nuts…nothing else. Great for those on-the-go moments when you need to fuel up. Vegan-friendly, non-GMO, Kosher, gluten and dairy free, they are better and less messy than trail mix!

4. Two Degrees Foods – Cherry Almond Bar.  Another vegan snack bar made with simple ingredients that pack lots of nutrition. You can never give me too many snack bars. 😉 Gluten free, non-GMO and tastes great!

5. Naturade’s VeganSmart All-in-One Nutritional Shake. This was one of my favorite items in the box. I’ve seen this before at Whole Foods but hesitated to buy it. Now that I’ve been able to sample it, I’m definitely adding it to my grocery list. Protein powders can be very deceiving. You may think you’re getting nutrition, but you’re also getting a ton of chemicals, dyes, artificial sweeteners, sugars, and other junk. VeganSmart is loaded with vitamins, minerals and 20 grams of protein in a serving! It’s made with a protein blend of pea, hemp, chia, potato and chlorella. It also contains whole foods, fiber and a probiotic blend. The vanilla flavor made my protein shake taste very good.

6. Runa Clean Energy – Tea. I received two RUNA tea bags….Traditional Guayusa Tea and Cinnamon-Lemongrass Guayusa Tea (my favorite). The Guayusa leaf helps to promote focused energy by balancing caffeine with antioxidants. This super-leaf is found on trees in the Amazon Rainforest. The teas are Organic and Fair Trade Certified.

7. Hail Merry Macaroons – Strawberry. I’m a big fan of Hail Merry snacks. They are made with coconut oil and non-GMO ingredients. The macaroons are a nice, sweet treat and gluten-free too!

8. Equal Exchange Dark Chocolate. I’m always on the hunt for Organic and Fair Trade Certified dark chocolate. Normally not a fan of fruit or nuts in my chocolate, I actually enjoyed this chocolate bar. It’s made with raisins and almonds. The chocolate is perfect…not too bitter, not too sweet. Best of all, it supports farmers and sustainable practices.

9. Sjaak’s Organic Chocolates. More chocolate! I have had Sjaak’s chocolates before and enjoyed them very much. Very decadent. I ended up giving this heart-shaped cherry chocolate truffle to my daughter. 😉

As you can see, I got lots of great goodies. You can get snack boxes like this for less than $20 each month! It’s great to come home to a monthly surprise, all for yourself. Vegan Cuts also offers a Beauty Box. Shipping is free and you can cancel at anytime. Vegan Cuts also has an online store so you can shop for skincare, fashion and other products from vegan-friendly businesses. If you’ve been thinking about going vegan or just looking for new and healthier snack and beauty products, I highly recommend Vegan Cuts. 

For more info visit the Vegan Cuts Website

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Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube

NeoCell Collagen

I recently learned about two of the newest products from NeoCell and am excited to share with you a little about them and my experience.  NeoCell brought the use of collagen to the United States and introduced us to its variety of uses and benefits. It can aid in everything from stronger hair and nails to anti-aging. NeoCell’s collagen and collagen related products are made using the highest quality ingredients. They are leaders in nutritional science, helping people lead healthier, more active lifestyles.

For the past month I have been indulging in NeoCell’s new fresh mint chocolate Beauty Bursts, gourmet collagen soft chews. Two of these little chocolate bites contain only 40 calories and are packed with 2,000 mg of  Super Collagen, the body’s protein that helps strengthen hair, skin and nails. They also contain Vitamin C, which is essential in boosting collagen in the skin, and Hyaluronic Acid, known as “Nature’s Moisturizer,” to hydrate and renew the skin. Not only are you getting lots of nutrients in just two chews, but Beauty Bursts are all natural….they are free from gluten, soy, and palm oil and they taste good! This past year, 2013, they were named the “Best of Natural Beauty” by Better Nutrition Magazine, as well as the “Best Beauty Supplement” by Delicious Living Magazine.

Along with the Beauty Bursts, I have been taking NeoCell’s Collagen Beauty Builder supplement. This all natural product promotes radiant skin and anti-aging. By taking three tablets twice a day, I am getting 6,000 mg of Super Collagen, containing 19 amino acids. I am also getting Vitamin C, Biotin, Alpha Lipoic Acid, and Silica, all which help to protect and enhance the formation of collagen and elasticity in the skin.

The first thing I noticed after taking NeoCell supplements for about a week….my nails are stronger and growing quicker than ever before! They look and feel healthier. The most impressive and obvious affect these products have had, however, are on my skin.

Every Winter, since moving to the East Coast, I have suffered from dry skin. My hands seems to age, my lips get chapped, and my hair and scalp get dry too. Well, I am ecstatic to report that even though this has been the coldest, most brutal Winter I have ever experienced, my skin looks and feels soft and moisturized! At the very start of winter my hands got dry and were cracked. I applied some lotion and shortly after began taking the Beauty Bursts and  Collagen Beauty Builder. Bye-Bye dry skin! I have had absolutely no problems ever since and no need to use extra hand lotion. Amazing. I am completely convinced the collagen supplements have done the trick. My hair, nails and skin look and feel healthier than ever. If you want more youthful, radiant skin, hair and nails, I highly recommend NeoCell. They have a variety of products for everything from joint health, sport recovery, anti-aging, total body health, and more. Beauty starts from within.   

For more info and to order your collagen products visit the NeoCell Website (www.neocell.com)

or

You can follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Mom-to-Be Discoveries

If subscription boxes are something you’ve been considering, this is the year to do it and Ecocentric Mom is the one to subscribe to for great savings and products! Right now is the perfect time to sign-up for even more savings. If you subscribe before Feb. 15th, you can get 10% off when you use checkout code: ECOMOM10%OFF and follow the special link: HERE.

Every other month I look forward to what new healthy, green and organic products I will discover. Just look at all the great stuff I got in the January/February “Mom-to-Be” Ecocentric Mom Box….

Pretty Mommies Let’s Be Clear Facial Cleanser ~ This all natural cleanser is going to definitely be one I recommend to my Doula clients. When you’re pregnant, avoiding toxins is extremely important for mom and baby. Pretty Mommy products are free of parabens, formaldehyde, sulfate, phthalate, dimethicone, petroleum, phenoxyethanol, oxybenzone, artificial fragrances and dyes. I received a full size cleaner that sells for $30 and a 20% off online discount code.

GRANDMA’s Pure and Natural Lye Soap ~ Coincidentally, I was given the opportunity to review Grandma’s Lye Soap just last month. It is an all natural soap free of detergents, dyes, fragrances and other chemicals found in conventional skin care products. It helps to alleviate symptoms of several skin conditions. To read my review: Click Here. I received a travel size bar in my box which sells for $1.49. A full size bar sells for $5. I also received a 20% off discount code and free samples of other products with purchase.

Pure + Remedy Vitamin C Facial Serum & “Precious Drops” Super Hydrating Serum ~ Another coincidence! Back in August, I received samples of the Pure + Remedy facial moisturizer line in my Ecocentric Mom box, but had not gotten around to sampling them until about a week ago. (To read my review: Click Here) It’s been great to incorporate the facial serum and precious drops into my skin regimen as well. Pure + Remedy is a great line that offers high quality holistic skin care products that are free of toxins and  definitely improve the appearance and texture of your skin. The Vitamin C Facial Serum travel size I received sells for $9.50 and the Precious Drops Hydrating Serum travel size sells for $10.50. I also got a 20% online discount code.

LIPS by Healthy Houseful ~ In the middle of this harsh winter we are having on the East Coast I happily welcome whatever chapstick I can get my lips on. Of course, avoiding toxic ingredients found in most conventional brands is key to healthy lips. Well, LIPS lip balm is made with coconut oil, shea butter and essential oils. This combo of healthy and organic ingredients makes for fast relief and beautiful lips. I received a full size chapstick which sells for $3 and a 15% discount code.

pur-Absorb Iron ~ We all know how important enough iron is, especially if you’re having a baby. It’s also very important to consider just how much iron your body is actually absorbing. The thing is, not all people or iron supplements are created equal. You always want to check with your Doctor on your ideal levels.  I was pleasantly surprised to receive a full size box with 28 packets of high absorption, 100% natural, liquid iron supplement. This box sells for $19.99 and I received a $2 retail coupon. This is another product I will be recommending to my Doula clients.

Sjaak’s Organic Fair Trade Chocolate Hearts ~ Just in time for Valentine’s Day, it was a sweet treat to be able to sample these yummy chocolate hearts. Supporting sustainable agriculture, fair trade practices, and a positive work environment are important to me. These little organic non-GMO chocolates can make such a big impact. They sell for only 65 cents per heart and I received 3.

Heart Bracelet by House of Metalworks ~ My favorite item in the box….a special Valentine’s Day gift just for me! Because these bracelets are handmade, each one is unique. No two are alike and they are made in the U.S.A. using reclaimed and recycled metals. One bracelet sells for $12 and I received a 10% online discount.

Ecocentric Mom Jan/Feb Expert Tips ~ As usual, my subscription box is not complete without the Ecocentric Mom Expert Tips postcard. The topics for this month are: “Resolutions…or Goals for 2014” and “Tips to Stay on Track with your New Year’s Resolution Goals”

Natural and Organic Beauty from Miessence

I had heard of the Miessence line a short while ago, but had never really looked into it. So, when I received a request to review some of their products, I jumped at the chance! Before I tell you about the goodies I sampled, let me share a little background info I discovered on the company.

Miessence is the original pioneer of manufacturing Certified Organic skincare. They are also one of the first companies to be carbon negative. Miessence offers a variety of organic products, from skin to home care, made in Australia. They offer superfood nutrition and even the world’s first certified organic probiotic. Almost all of their products are also gluten-free.

The following is a list of products I sampled and my thoughts on each. I honestly loved them all! You can click on each for more info and a list of ingredients:

• Sunflower Body Wash – My favorite of the bunch. Love the smell and the milky, soft feel. The body wash is light, but effective and left me feeling and smelling fresh and clean.
• Intensive Body Cream – The body cream is also very light and absorbed quickly.  Left my skin feeling so smooth and soft. Has patchouli scent which I liked, but the hubby was not a big fan.
• Balancing Cleanser – I really loved using this to wash my face. I even took my make-up off with it. It has a nice scent and left my skin feeling so clean, fresh and revived.
• Probiotic Skin Brightner – I would have never thought to put probiotics on my skin, but it is definitely more beneficial than traditional toners. I applied the liquid with a cotton swab after cleaning my face and it really was a nice follow-up. My skin actually looked and felt more alive.
• Balancing Skin Conditioner – An additional step in your skincare regimen that will re-introduce vitamins to the skin and help make it refined, as well as firmer. I noticed improvement after 3 days of using it.
• Balancing Moisturizer – The final step in a skincare routine is the most important. Our skin goes through daily wear and tear that can leave it very thirsty. This light moisturizer absorbed into my skin quickly, bringing back it’s natural bounce and softness.
• Desert Flower Shampoo – I love that it’s made with Yucca juice and Organic Avocado. With ingredients you can eat, how can you go wrong? It did leave my hair feeling slightly dryer than usual and I had to extra-condition. However, this is typical of a “hair detox” and improves with continued use. 
• Shine Herbal Hair Conditioner – This conditioner contains a lot of good stuff for the hair. I used it as a leave-in conditioner treatment and it left my hair feeling soft and manageable.

Today, more and more products and brands claim to be natural, organic and safe. With all of the contradicting information out there, it can be confusing and difficult to find a line you truly trust. I am so happy to report that Miessence is the real deal! Not only are their products safe, but they are effective too. I can also appreciate that they practice and support green, sustainable and ethical use of Mother Earth’s resources.

What makes Miessence even more unique is that they not only offer certified organic products, they also provide great job opportunities. They have a solid system for those looking to start their own business and earn some money. The company recently revamped their compensation plan to include more bonuses and bigger commissions. For more information, watch this very informative video: CLICK HERE

Take advantage of current promotions…

 20% off of any order at Miessence. Use promo code: toporganics 

 Miessence Press Kit

Ecocentric Mom August Goodies!

I can’t believe Summer is basically over and we’re already into another school year. The past couple of weeks have been a blur. Our family got back from vacation and went straight into back-to-school madness. It’s crazy moments like this that make me look even more forward to my Ecocentric Mom Discovery Box each month. It’s such a nice surprise to come home to after a busy day of errands and running around shopping for groceries and school supplies!  It’s a little treat for me. 😉 This month I got plenty of great goodies again. Check them out…

ips All Natural Chips ~ Yum! These snacks are Non-GMO and contain no preservatives. They contain 7 grams of protein and are made with egg whites. How unique! I received both the Aged White Cheddar and Cinnamon Sugar varieties. They are very good and satisfying. Great alternative to conventional chips and puff-type snacks. One bag sells for $1.59 to $1.99.

Truebar by Bakery On Main ~ Another great healthy snack! I love trying out new snack bars because I’m always on the go and need quick nutritious options. Trubar is dairy and casein free, GFCO Certified Gluten Free, Kosher OU Parve, and Non-GMO. It is made with chia seeds for a good source of Omega 3. I received the Walnut Cappuccino flavored bar. Very tasty. Each bar sells for $1.89. I also got a 10% online coupon and a 50 cents off retail coupon.

MacroLife Naturals Coco Greens and Berri Reds Nutrient Rich Super-Foods ~ Such a nice surprise to get these. I have used MacroLife Naturals for a couple of years now. It is a great way to ensure your kids get their fruits and veggies on those off days when they’re being picky. They contain 3.5 Bil. Probiotics and Enzymes for immune support. Just add it to a smoothie and they will love the taste. You can get a 32-day canister for $22.99 or a 64-day canister for $42.99. So worth it!

Moontime Tea’s Organic Fertility Blend ~ I received 2 sample tea bags of this delicious combo of organic red raspberry, nettle, red clover and peppermint. All of these naturally caffeine free herbs have been known to help support reproductive function. A pouch of 30 tea bags goes for $19.99. I also received a 20% online discount.

Suncoat Sugar Based Natural Mascara ~ My favorite goody in the box! Who told that I was in need of a new mascara? I make sure to replace my make-up every 4 months to keep germs and bacteria at bay. This was perfect timing. More importantly, this mascara is great for sensitive eyes like mine. It is vegan, free of PVP, acrylic copolymer, VA polymer, fragrance, parabens, alcohol and glycol. (Yeah, all that junk is in popular mascaras!)  Suncoat mascara is made with natural ingredients, including vitamin E, It builds volume and length…and is eco-friendly! At $14.99 it’s a deal!

Suncoat Girl Nail Polish ~ I’m loving this line…another favorite! I only buy nail polish that does not contain harmful chemicals and toxins…especially since my little one is always asking for a mani-pedi. Well, she is also loving this nail polish and the pretty pink shade we received. Suncoat polish is 100% free of formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, acetates, synthetic colors, VOCs…all the bad stuff we inhale and receive when we go to the salon. It is made with natural ingredients and mineral pigments. Sells for $7.99 per bottle.

Pure + Remedy ~ Another great line! I received travel size samples of the Gentle Hydrating Moisturizer, which sells for $3.50 (regular size goes for $20). I also received a Vitamin C Concentrate Facial Moisturizer sample, which sells for $4 (regular size goes for $24). Although I haven’t started using them yet, I am pretty confident I will love them, as this is a holistic and natural skin care line, made with high quality and organic ingredients. I also received a 20% discount code.

Possum Hollow Farm Soap ~ This was a nice surprise, as it is a family run small business in Bucks County, not far from where I live in PA. The travel size bar I received is all natural and scented with essential oils. The soap is very gentle and leaves your skin feeling hydrated and soft. Possum Hollow Farm offers soaps designed with mom and babies in mind. A full size bar sells for $5.50. I received a 10% online discount too.

Untrash Compostable Bags ~ I was just saying to a friend the other day that I really need to find a good, eco-friendly trash bag. So far I’m really liking Untrash. I received an assortment of 3-gallon, 13-gallon and sandwich bags. I’m a new fan of this line. While it’s great that most cities pick up recycling nowadays, 1/3 of US residents send food scraps to landfills in plastic trash bags. Untrash is a great and convenient solution to helping reduce waste. A box of 18 3-gallon bags sells for $4.99; 10 13-gallon bags goes for $6.99; 50 sandwich bags sell for $4.99. You can even get a compost can for $24.99! I definitely plan on using my 25% off discount code. I also received $10 off a compost can.

August GIft Card ~ $10 for The Keeper or The Moon Cup, both eco-friendly feminine hygiene products.

Special Gift ~ $5 gift card for Instagrad, the gift of education. Start a college or savings fund for your little one, making it easy for family and friends to contribute too.

Ecocentric Mom August Expert Tips ~ “Non-toxic lunch boxes, bags, and containers” by Diane MacEachern and “Steps Towards a Healthier Family” by Alysa Bajenaru.

If you’ve been thinking about a subscription box service, I promise this one won’t disappoint!  Right now, when you subscribe to the monthly boxes, you can use promo code ECOMOM10 at checkout and receive 10% off. If you’re still a little hesitant to join, then you’ll want to take advantage of the Bonus mystery box…but you have to act fast as these sell out quickly and there won’t be another chance to get these until 2014!  Just click the link below and then go to the Bonus Mystery Box sign-up page, which is at the top right (under Join).  ‘Til next month!

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Suuthe your Skin

A few weeks back I was introduced to this great line of skin care products and am excited to share it with you. Suuthe by Mari offers natural and organic products for your body, face, and lips. From mild skin conditions to eczema and psoriasis relief, they are great for any skin type and any age. In fact, Mari Carlin Dart developed the skin repair that started it all to help alleviate her son’s eczema. In 2012 suuthe received the KIWI Award for Best Kids’ Personal Care. I received the suuthe skin repair and both the original and peppermint lip balms for review. 

My daughter has sensitive skin (like her mama) and the Skin Repair has really come in handy. We have used it for mild skin irritations and itchiness caused by detergents and bug bites. We most recently used it for sunburn relief for the whole family. The skin repair provided instant relief. It is not greasy or too thick and goes on easily and absorbs quickly. It has a light, pleasant scent too.

The lip balms have been just as useful. My daughter is not a fan of minty flavors so I gave her the original, while I have been using the peppermint balm. During the hot Summer weather they have maintained our lips smooth and soft. I am certain we will be using these for the cold Winter months, as well.

The most important thing I look for in skin care is that it is safe for my little one to use. I love that suuthe products can be applied whenever and as much as is needed.  Only containing a short list of ingredients that are all 100% natural and/or organic, including emu oil, beeswax, and essential oils, this is the type of skin care line I want and need for my family and me.

The Products

suuthe products are created to provide fast, natural relief from severe to mild skin conditions. They are capable of soothing, repairing, maintaining, preserving and protecting your skin. suuthe formulations have been created by combining some of the world’s oldest and most effective ingredients. Each ingredient was chosen for its own unique qualities and ability to have a positive effect on the skin. As a result we are proud to bring you a line of skin products that truly work!

suuthe products are made using a very simple process. There are no additives or fillers used. Temperatures are kept at the lowest possible level in order to maintain the highest nutritive quality of each ingredient. We purposely source ingredients that are food grade. We want you to ‘feed’ your skin with nothing but the most pure and natural products available.

It is now common knowledge that the skin is the largest organ in the body. Everything you put on it is absorbed and ultimately ends up inside your body. suuthe products are specifically made with that in mind.

We have experienced the difficulty that skin conditions can cause first hand. suuthe was founded on the idea that with our products we can help our customers to overcome damaged skin and regain or maintain a high quality of life.

~taken from the suuthe website

Right now you can get a free lip balm with your order….

Visit the suuthe website.

Follow suuthe by mari on Facebook and Twitter

Sibu Beauty Giveaway

I was recently given the opportunity to sample and share my thoughts on Sibu Beauty’s Sea Buckthorn Nourishing Facial Cream. I used the daily moisturizer on my face for almost 2 months. The 1oz bottle of this lightweight facial cream goes a long way! Great value for the price. (See website for price list.)

I have mentioned before that I have very sensitive skin, but my complexion did well using Sibu. The key ingredient, sea buckthorn, is a small but resilient berry found in the Tibetan Himalayas. It is rich in Omega-7 fatty acids which aid in the production of collagen. It is also full of Omegas 3, 6, and 9, is a powerful antioxidant and natural source of Vitamins A, B, C and E. The cream felt gentle and absorbed quickly. My skin felt smooth and hydrated after each application and all day. My favorite thing about it was the refreshing citrus scent from orange and lemon essential oils.

I am happy to announce that Sibu Beauty has offered one lucky reader the chance to win their very own bottle of repair & protect daytime facial cream!!

The Sibu Beauty Sea Buckthorn Nourishing Facial Cream helps promote tissue recovery, rejuvenates sun-damaged skin, helps restore blemished skin, preserves healthy skin tone and texture, protects against environmental stress, works well with all skin types and contains natural ingredients. Remember, great ingredients can often be mixed in with some not-so-great ones. Always look out for any questionable ingredients.

Sibu Beauty is made in the USA and offers a full line of personal care and supplement products. They feature Sea Buckthorn that has been sourced through fair trade agreements with local harvesters in Tibet. Sibu Beauty products are also cruelty-free and 100% vegan. The company has been featured in Marie Claire, Elle and Style.com.

TO ENTER RAFFLE: CLICK HERE

For more information and a complete list of products and ingredients visit the Sibu Beauty Website.

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