Shea Moisture Review

About Shea Moisture

Shea Moisture creates award-winning, all-natural, face, hair, bath, body, shave, waxing and baby care remedies, from age-old family recipes carried down through the generations.

Sofi Tucker began selling shea nuts at the village market in Bonthe, Sierra Leone in 1912. By age 19, the widowed mother of four was selling her shea butter and African black soap all over the countryside. Sofi Tucker was their grandmother, and SheaMoisture is her legacy. The folks at Shea Moisture proudly create culturally-authentic, time-tested skin and hair care remedies from family recipes using all-natural and fair trade ingredients.
SheaMoisture products don't contain Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, DEA, PABA, Synthetic Fragrance or Artificial Color. Their company does not participate in animal testing. All products are tested by family members and friends. 

My Thoughts

My family and I were sent several Shea Moisture Products. I am not sure why we were sent mostly products from the Kids line, but we still enjoyed them. If given the choice, I may have went with something more suited for me.

The first product I tried was the Kids Conditioner. We were sent two of them (I am thinking they meant to send a shampoo instead of double conditioner?) I used a different brand of shampoo and followed with the Kids Mango and Carrot Extra Nourishing Conditioner for dry, delicate hair. I was a bit skeptical of how a kids conditioner would smell, but oh my goodness this product smells amazing. I couldn't believe it the first time I unscrewed the cap. It smells so amazing! I detest mangoes, so luckily that was not the scent I was getting. It was very refreshing and uplifting, and made my hair smell amazing all day. The first thing I noticed after using this conditioner for the first time was how it made brushing my hair super easy (well, at least compared to how it usually is.) I was able to get the tangles out smoothly without help and without pulling all of my hair out. 

I also got to try out the Kids Coconut and Hibiscus Extra Moisturizing detangler. It contains Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Extract for smoothing. I love how mild this product is and how it restores luster to dry, dull hair while leaving it conditioned. It can be applied to wet or dry hair and doesn't need to be rinsed out, making it very easy to use. The scent reminds me of summer, smelling so sweet with hints of coconut. 

I did in fact get to try (and fight over) a Shea Moisture product designed for adults, the Coconut and Hibiscus Body Butter. It contains gluten free vitamin E to protect the skin form radical damage, coconut oil to nourish and firm the skin, and Hibiscus Flowers as a natural emollient to treat dry, rough skin and improve skin tone. The scent is smooth and fragrant, lasting for a good while. 

Shea Moisture also makes bar soaps. I got to try the Indian Hemp and Shea Butter Inflammation Therapy Medicated Cleansing Bar. It worked perfectly on my sensitive skin, relieving the irritation while soothing and moisturizing. This soap contains homeopathic medicines (Calendula Extract, Neem Oil, and Tea Tree Oil) to naturally remedy any inflammation, redness, or other minor skin irritations. This soap never fails to leave my skin soothed and calm. Perfect for use before bedtime, as I often find my skin to be itchy while trying to fall asleep.

I also got to try the Shea Moisture African Black Soap Eczema and Psoriasis Therapy Medicated Cleansing Bar. It calms, clears, and heals skin using homeopathic medicines. It is specially formulated with certified organic Shea Butter and natural ingredients known to promote healing skin affected by symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. No one in my immediate family experiences these problems, but I do personally have rather sensitive skin. It works great and keeps my skin from being dry and itchy after a shower.

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Disclosure: I received the above item in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.

School of Wash Review

About School of Wash

School of Wash, one of the first Mommy and Munchkin businesses was born by summer camp sales. Literally! Without her knowledge, Rebekah's 11-year old daughter sold the bath products she was making just for her to all of her summer camp friends. The parents loved the fact that the products were handmade, contained no dyes and were safe for the most delicate of skin. The kids loved the 245 different scents they were able to choose from to customize their bath product line. The feedback was so positive that she decided to start School of Wash. 

They are a mom/daughter owned company, right here in the USA, making a difference in their market by bringing the FUN back into bath time. As a family owned business they feel it is important to treat their customers like family. They use all their products in their own bathrooms because they feel they are the best on the market. For them, this is a family affair! 

The inspiration for School of Wash™?  One evening as Rebekah's daughter drudged towards the bathroom she exclaimed, “You know Mom, I’m not a baby anymore why do I have to use shampoo with a baby on it?”  Sometimes the logic of a child is so simple it is brilliant. Why shouldn’t bath time be COOL?  After months of trial and error to find just the right name and products to peak her interest, they found a way to not only keep her bath time COOL but allowed her to be the creative force in the brand and product design.
Their products really are “KID TESTED AND KID APPROVED”!

My Thoughts

I was so excited to get to try the School of Wash products of my choosing. With at least an hour spent on making a decision, I ended up choosing the Sugar Cookie scented Room and Linen spray as well as the I need More Perfume roll on 4pk in Gummy Bears, Caramel and Sea Salt, Amber Amore, and Bubblegum. All of these scents were delightful and ridiculously spot on! 

The Sugar Cookie Room and Linen spray was fantastic. I can see myself running out of this very quickly. The scent lingers in the air for a nice while, creating a soft aroma almost as if I were actually baking. The roll ons were a bit of a daring leap, but I really wanted to try something I am not used to. I always tend to choose woodsy, earthy scents. 

This time, since given the option of 245 different scent choices, I chose something a bit more creative than I normally would have. The Gummy Bear scent brought me straight back to my childhood, almost as if I had just walked into a candy shop. The Bubblegum was reminiscent of my childhood as well, bringing back memories of contests of who could blow the biggest bubble, always forcing as many pieces of gum into my mouth as possible. Drooling everywhere, getting everything sticky no doubt. The Caramel and Sea Salt scent is rather unique. I really enjoyed it, though it was not a very strong scent. The Amber Amore was not what I expected, making it quite a surprise. The scent was fantastic. Arguably better than the most expensive of perfumes. I could wear this scent all day, and it is easy to layer with other scents. School of Wash has made it easy to create your own unique scent combination, mixing and matching all sorts of scents.

Not only do I love the products I got to try, but I love the whole idea of School of Wash. Their mother/daughter story is touching as well as inspiring. They have joined forces with a great organization called Lily Pad, a local nonprofit dedicated to serving victims of physical and sexual abuse. School of Wash makes bathtime fun and less stressful by catering to my specific aromatic needs. They make an extensive amount of products for Kids, Him, Her, and even for the Pets!  I personally cannot wait to try their pet products as well as other scents of Room/Linen Spray!

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  Disclosure: I received the above item in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255. 

End of Summer Must Have!! Super Salve Company Review

The Super Salve Company was created by Denise Tracy Cowan in 1990 after her late husband, Randy Fabres (a Grand Canyon river guide), asked her to formulate a salve that would prevent and heal foot fungus, which debilitated a large portion of the crew and passengers on extended Grand Canyon river trips. The results were amazing and the acceptance was universal. Denise could not keep this incredible salve in stock.

 Hence, The Super Salve Company was born!

Over the years, Denise has received thousands of letters from fans, praising the properties and purity of her products. She only uses responsible sources of organically farmed herbs, oils, essential oils, butters and waxes. The Super Salve Company’s goal is to produce the highest quality products with the finest ingredients at a reasonable price, using only recyclable, earth-friendly packaging.

The Super Salve Company products are manufactured, packaged, and shipped directly from her factory (located near the ghost town of Mogollon, New Mexico) enabling the highest degree of quality control and quick response to orders from her customers.

 When my package arrived from the Super Salve Co., I was so excited, I tore right into it! I was sore and had a headache from cleaning and yard work the previous days, and was interested to see how well they worked when I needed it most. I was sent The Super Pack. It contains one of each of their salves in a large, fancy tin!

 

Salves include: Calendula Salve, Sun Salve, Arnica Salve, and the infamous Super Salve. All of which I was delighted to try!

Arnica cordifolia ~ common name “Leopard’s Bane." This salve works fast and effectively on muscle aches, joints and tension. It also helps heal sprains, bruising and swelling. Rubbed on temples and back of neck for headaches, this salve will stimulate circulation and healing.

    • excellent for body builders

    • not recommended for use during pregnancy or on open wounds

    • external use only

    • keep away from children

CONTAINS: Olive oil; organic arnica flowers; sweet almond oil; beeswax, cocoa butter; African shea butter; vitamin E oil; and pure essential oils of wintergreen, camphor, ginger, clove, cayenne, and a variety of mints and sages.

My Experience: This was the first of the salves I tried. I rubbed it on my shoulders, wrists, temples, and the nape of my neck. I love the way it creates a pleasant, warming sensation followed by a gentle cooling tingle. It helped me finish my daily tasks without being bothered by those annoying aches and pains I was feeling prior to the salve. I applied it once again before bed, and was able to rest comfortably. It is now something I put on my temples before yoga and meditation to help soothe my mind and get rid of those annoying headaches. 

(Calendula officinale, common name “Marigold”) In ancient times, Calendula was used for beautifying purposes and especially for toning the skin. Today, cosmetic experts praise calendula for its rejuvenating and healing effects on injured and damaged skin.

    • excellent for sensitive skin

    • for face & body

    • sunburn & windburns

    • scars & wrinkle treatment

    • protects skin from dehydration

    • antioxidant, fights free radicals

CONTAINS: Olive oil; organic calendula flowers; beeswax; African shea butter; cocoa butter; mango butter; sweet almond oil; jojoba oil; neem oil; vitamin E oil; and pure essential oils of sweet orange, lemon, and tangerine.

My Experience: This salve was perfect for my dry, painful sunburn. I do love aloe for sunburns, but this salve has spoiled me. It contains so many awesome ingredients that soften the skin while soothing burns or itchy skin. I have sensitive skin and always worry about what I put on it, especially my face. This salve leaves me worry free! I now put it on before going outside as well as after showering to prevent my skin from drying out and getting flaky.

Super Salve (All Purpose) is an antioxidant salve for the soothing and healing relief of dry and cracked skin, chapped lips, abrasions, eczema, and insect bites. Fights free radicals. A potent medicinal herbal salve created for the harsh environment of the desert southwest. Originated for Grand Canyon river runners and hikers.

   • Chaparral Leaf - slows down the rate of bacterial growth and kills the bacteria with anti-microbial activity. Great in the first aid kit for skin abrasions and injuries.

   • Echinacea Flower - has caffeic acidglycoside, which reacts with other substances in the body's cells. This facilitates the wound healing process. Excellent for drawing out poisons such as ant bites, bee stings, jellyfish stings, and many more.

   • Hops Flower - A very powerful herb for decreasing painful swelling and inflamed pneumatic pain. Contains two antibiotic substances: humulon and lupulon, both effective on staph and other skin bacteria.

   • Usnea Moss - Usnea, with its usnic acid and other compounds is useful for burns and athletes foot.

CONTAINS: Olive oil; organic chaparral leaf; comfrey leaf; echinacea flower; hops flower; usnea moss; beeswax; cocoa butter; sweet almond oil; vitamin E oil; and pure essential oils of lemon, lemon grass, lavender, tea tree, and cajaput.

My Experience: Just look at all of those awesome herbal ingredients!! Since this salve arrived, I have used it for all kinds of things. With the mosquitoes being horrible right now, I carry this salve everywhere. I put it on immediately after noticing a bite, and BAM!, the itch is soothed. It works great on the bottoms of my feet (I go barefoot a lot!) I actually enjoy it on my lips when they are chapped, making this salve my go to cure all! I recommend everyone keep some of this in their purse. You never know when/what you will need, and this makes it easy to keep it simple!

Sun Salve Herbal Sunscreen

This sun salve soothes and heals the skin.

    • excellent for face and body

    • all natural ingredients: comfrey leaf,

      African shea butter, jojoba oil

    • contains lemon grass oil, a mild

      insect repellent

    • avoid contact with the eyes

CONTAINS: Olive oil, beeswax, organic comfrey leaf oil, African shea butter, jojoba oil, active sunscreen ingredients (5% zinc oxide and 5% Avobenzone), cocoa butter, sweet almond oil, vitamin E oil, and pure essential oils of lemongrass and lavender oil.

My Experience: Yet another great salve! It not only contains SPF to prevent sunburn, but has properties to soothe a preexisting burn. It also repels those persistent insects, with the help of lemon grass oil!

Overall- these salves have been a lifesaver! I can see myself using them for a long time. The Super Salve Company has gained yet another loyal fan!

Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.  

What I Have Been Putting on my Skin Lately!- Acure Organics

Like most women, I love pampering myself. What I don't love is putting chemicals on my skin and paying for products that are bad for the environment. I don't care to have intense artificial scents and random color additives just to make the product appear more desirable. I feel like I have been searching for the perfect company forEVER, as they are really hard to come by! Unfortunately, I must have been living under a rock, because I just recently heard of Acure. I really wish I had heard of them sooner!

If you are not familiar with Acure, they are a family owned and operated company founded on sustainable principles to provide the highest quality fair trade, natural, and certified organic personal care products. All of their products are free from animal testing, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, harmful preservatives and artificial colors.

They were ever so kind enough to send me a great selection of goodies for me to try out. I can confidently say that I enjoy all of them!

I was sent Lip Lush in Birthday Suit, Sensitive Facial Cleanser, Argan Cell Stimulating Body Wash, Lavender Echinacea Stem Cell Calming Body Lotion, along with their Moroccan Argan oil + Argan Stem Cell shampoo and conditioner.

The first product I tried was the Lip Lush. I couldn't wait to get my hands on it and try it out! I love lip gloss, even though I normally just wear lip balm. I was so stoked that it actually lived up to my expectations. Not only is hard enough to find an organic lip gloss in the first place, it is uber hard to find a good quality one at a great price! The Lip Lush in Birthday Suit was just the perfect color! Or barely any color at all to be exact, which is what I was hoping for. I tend to wear a more natural look for my day to day makeup routine. 

I love how it glides on effortlessly, is not slippery, and did not get sticky or clumpy after wearing it for awhile. It had a subtle shimmer. Perfect for a day at work, lunch date, or worn over a lipstick for a evening look! 

Then I tried the Argan Cell Stimulating Body Wash. The smell is quite unique. Hard to place, almost like it has a hint of almonds! I really liked how it moisturized as it cleansed my skin. I only had to add a little bit to my sponge, as it seems to lather really well. Argan stem cells are added to help stimulate healthy healing and regeneration, while CoQ10 assists with vascular support. The pumpkin seed oil contains essential fatty acids, minerals and antioxidants and the sea buckthorn oil hydrates the skin! So many great things about this body wash. Not your cup of tea?! Acure offers a few other body washes to choose from, although I do highly recommend that you try this one.

Since I was already in the shower, the most obvious choice was to try the Moroccan Argan Oil and Argan Stem Cell shampoo and conditioner. They contain Argan Oil + Argan stem cells, CoQ10, Pumpkin seed oil (for mega shine) and organic Seabuckthorn Oil (which is super high in Omega 7). The Argan Stem Cell Shampoo was excellent to use. I didn't have to use a ton, despite having thick, long hair. The scent was great! And it left my hair feeling squeaky clean. It provided my hair with much needed moisture, even without the accompaniment of the conditioner. It left my hair shiny. I do tend to have thick, tangly hair so conditioner is a must. The Argan Stem Cell Conditioner was the perfect addition to the previous shampooing. I love how soft and manageable my hair was after using this conditioner for even the first time! This really is the perfect combo as they help lock in moisture, leave your hair shiny, soft and manageable, repair damage, and strengthen follicles. What more could you ask for?! 

(In case you are asking for more,

they have several other great hair care products as well! )

I don't know about you, but I like to take shortcuts. I am not lazy, persay, just careful about how I spend my time. What I am getting at is, I like to wash my face and brush my teeth in the shower on top of the normal shower things. I find it easier to have the shower rinse the cleanser away rather than cupping water in my hands over and over. THE MONOTANY! :p

So after my main shower routine, I busted out the Acure Sensitive Facial Cleanser with Argan Oil and probiotics. I have really sensitive skin, especially on my face, so it is really important for me to find a cleanser that works. I am happy to say that my skin actually accepted this product! No horrible flaking, itching skin! I just feel clean after using it, not all tight in the face like I normally do after washing it. Not only did this stuff work, it was relaxing and left my face feeling fresh and hydrated! Woo! Now that makes me happy :)

Find more Acure face care products here.

After getting out of the shower, I always suffer from extremely dry skin. I am talking EXTREMELY dry. They literally sometimes look all powdery, especially if I shave my legs. The Acure Calming Body Lotion formula is like a dream come true when used after I get out of the shower. I love lathering it on while my skin still feels a bit damp, to lock in extra moisture. This blend incorporates Echinacea Stem Cells to maximize production of stress fighting and immunity boosting agents while also helping to smooth and revitalize the skin. The lovely lavender works to soothe and contributes to a state of relaxation. I love the scent (whch seems to linger for a good while) and I really enjoy the way it makes my skin feel. 

If lavender isn't your cup of tea (what is wrong with you?!) then check out the other awesome lotions they carry!  

  

I really cannot get enough of Acure! I am really digging all of the products I just mentioned, and look forward to trying their other things out in the future.  I love using products that benefit my skin and hair, while knowing that the production of them isn't making the world a worse place.

Acure cares about the environment (almost) as much as I do! 

They started a program to plant trees, and have since planted over 20,000! That is pretty awesome. They are proud supporters of the Farmland Trust (which works to convert conventional farm land into certified organic farms!!) 

Acure even sponsors small organic farmers in Panama and and Costa Rica.

Their office and manufacturing facility is as green as can be! Using 100% solar and wind powered with Green-e certified renewable energy!!

Acure's products are 100% biodegradable. Meaning they will safely break down so that they won't pollute waterways after going down the drain. (Have you even thought about what happens to all of the products you flush down the drain each day?! Not to mention what is now in our drinking water..)

Even their packaging is eco-friendly! 

Check out the amazing sale they are having!

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Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255. 

Keep Your Acne in the Clear with Citrus Clear!

 Citrus Clear is a natural and holistic treatment for acne, sensitive skin and all skin types. They offer natural acne products which include face wash, moisturizer, and acne treatments designed to meet the needs of teenagers and adults looking to remove acne. 

Citrus Clear is known for being the most "natural acne treatment". They value each of our unique formulas, and ensure that only the most potent citrus juices, extracts, tinctures and peels are used in their acne products. Citrus Clears' natural skin care is made for all skin types. They have an Acne Control line of products, and a Sensitive Skin line of products. The Control Acne line is designed for the purposes of controlling acne; products are maximum strength in acne fighting ingredients. The Sensitive Skin line of skin care products includes a Sensitive Face Wash, and a Sensitive Moisturizer.

Since I rarely get acne (I know! I am lucky.) I chose the Sensitive Face Wash and Moisturizer. When they arrived in the mail I was impressed by the packaging. I love it when products come in glass. Not only is it better for the environment, it is better for the product. I can also reuse glass packaging instead of icky plastics that can be tricky to recycle and questionable to use again. Obviously, I opted to try the face wash first.

(On a side not, my lovely Aunt made me this quilt. Isn't it gorgeous!?)

Citrus Clear was kind enough to surprise me with some extra products!

What I noticed first about the Gentle Cleanser was the scent. It is so lively, perfect for the summer! It was simple to use and worked great! It didn't dry out my skin at all. Not many face washes do that since I have such dry skin. I still wanted to use the Sensitive Moisturizer though. Boy am I glad I did! I have never used a grapefruit scented product due to my keen sense of smell and overactive allergies, but this honestly wasn't bad! The scent was nice without being overpowering! I was so excited!

The Sensitive Face Wash (with natural Tahitian lime) seriously makes you feel like you are on vacation every time you use it. It contains a mix of gentle citrus ingredients which are recommended for those with sensitive skin, to keep skin in balance, clean and fresh. Sensitive skin types need a sensitive cleanser. Formulated to remove excess oil without over stripping your face of its delicate balance. Gently washes away oil, dirt and bacteria. 8oz.

The gentle Face Moisturizer is recommended for use by all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. The organic ingredients in this moisturizer make your skin feel soft and refreshed, not tight and or dry. The formula contains soothing botanicals, citrus ingredients, and powerful vitamins designed to gently balance facial skin tone. It is lightweight, does not enlarge pores and can be worn under makeup. 2oz.

 Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.

New Unscented Soaps from Alegna Soap Review and GIVEAWAY! (ends 6/25)

As many of you already know, I am in love with Alegna Soap Products. In case you don't know, or may have forgotten, allow me to share this wonderful company with you!

As a New York State licensed Medical Technologist, Angela has always loved biology and chemistry. Back in 1999 she went to her local library, took out a book on cold processed soap making and found a hobby. She started making soap for her personal use, for family and for friends. Fast forward a few years. With both of her children graduated from college, out of the house and self-supporting, she had some “me-time” to reflect on what she wanted to do. Angela loved making soap. She also remembered receiving a perfume making kit as a child and spending hours creating perfumes for her mother and her two sisters. Here was her “Aha!” moment. She did some research, took a few aromatherapy classes and also learned how to create other bath products - bath fizzies, hand lotion, body balms, and bath salts. Soon Angela had tons of people asking her to make products for them. One thing led to another and… Alegna Soap was born!

Angela sent me 3 of her newest creations to try. I was super excited about them since they are all unscented. I enjoy fragrances, but many of them trigger headaches. I was amazed at how quickly they arrived, and was impressed by the careful packaging! 

 It wasn't long after I received them that I decided to give them a try!

These soaps are so fancy! Don't you just love the little fabric accent ribbon?

Out of all the soaps, my personal favorite was the Honey Oatmeal. It is hard to beat an exfoliating soap that contains such simple ingredients.  

Honey Oatmeal

Not just for breakfast anymore!

Organic oatmeal laced with pure honey is as scrumptious for your skin as it is for your tummy. Mildly exfoliation and free of added scents, this is a pure and natural indulgence.

Olive Oil Soap

A castile soap, made only with olive oil. This soap gently cleans with a creamy low lather. I personally love the lower lathering soaps. Especially when using them in the tub. This soap is a must have for me this summer!

Goat Milk Soap

Decadent in its simplicity-creamy goat's milk creates a rich and incredibly emollient bar that is perfect for even the most sensitive skin.

Overall, I am very pleased with this new line of Alegna Classic Soap. I can use each one for a unique purpose, and none of them give me a headache! They left my skin feeling soft and clean, making me a very happy Paisley!

  

 Open to US residents 18 years of age and older. The giveaway will end on 6/25/14.The winner will be chosen randomly, and will be contacted by email. They will have 48 hours to contact me back to claim their prize. Living the Paisley Life is not responsible for lost prizes or prizes that are not received.

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Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.