Tried & Tested: LAYLA Softouch Effect Nail Polish

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LAYLA Cosmetics Softouch Effect Nail Polish is a new “soft textured” nail polish that lasts up to 10-15 days. This revolutionary formula is soft to the touch which makes application virtually goof-proof.

These fast-drying nail polishes do not need a top coat or base coat and come in 12 matte and shimmer colors: Marshmallow Twinkle, Golden Touch, Stone, Neon Pink, Cherry Diva, Limoncello, Fire it Up, Queen Bordeaux, Aqua Zen, Turquois Splash, Mudhattan and Noir Touch. The formula will not stain the nail and is free of toluene, camphor, formaldehyde and DBP.

Tried & Tested: Besides a shellac or minx manicure, (which I am not a fan – Read: HERE) this is the longest-lasting polish I have ever used. It dries almost like a gel and leaves a curious cushion/soft texture that instantly conceals any goofs and/or mistakes. Incredibly easy-to-apply, the polish seems to mold to the finger nail. The formula is opaque in just one coat, but perfect in two. I would not describe these polishes as matte. Most matte nail polishes are made with a powder substance, which is what gives them that slightly chalky look. LAYLA Softouch Effect contains a wax that creates more of a demi-matte finish.

A must-have for the girl painting her nails while running out of the house (me…sigh). LAYLA Softouch Effect dries almost instantly and any bumps or dings can be “massaged” back to new.

ABOUT LAYLA COSMETICS:

LAYLA Cosmetics is an Italian company based in Milan, the capital of fashion, and was the first to introduce nail polish in Italy. Now, the company features a wide range of nail polishes and makeup products. LAYLA Cosmetics can satisfy the nail polish needs and desires of every woman, from the sophisticated business woman to the young, artsy college student.

LAYLA Cosmetics is also one of the first brands to create magnetic nail polish. Their revolutionary Magneffect Nail Polish was formulated to react to the magnet on its cap, creating instant, three-dimensional designs in seconds. The quick drying, high-shine finish requires no base coat, and is easily removed with nail-polish remover. Basically, LAYLA Cosmetics created imaginative fun in a bottle.

Not only will your nails sparkle with spectacular shine and uniquely captivating colors, but all of LAYLA’s nail polishes are formulated without formaldehyde, toluene and DBP, and they’re never tested on animals. So, whether you’re looking for unique nail polishes or a fast-drying top coat, LAYLA Cosmetics has the perfect product for you!

Super Seed: The Chia Seed

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Ch…Ch…Ch…CHIA! The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the super seed. The many Chia Pet commercials watched on how to grow chia seeds from your very own terra-cotta Chia Frog. Gaining popularity in the United States, Chia seeds are making a big comeback. They offer a wonderful source of nutrients that can easily be incorporated into your diet and can easily be purchased from any health food store.

Chia seeds are a small seed that comes from the salvia plant, which is a part of the mint family. Originally grown in South America, Chia seeds were first used as food as early as 3500 BC and were one of the main dietary components of the Aztecs and the Mayans.

Chia seeds are perhaps best known for their high omega-3 fatty acids content. In fact, chia seeds have the highest omega-3s of any vegetarian food. Just one tablespoon of chia seeds contains 2406 mg of omega-3s, and also contains approx. 792 mg omega-6s and 294 mg of omega-9 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are important for brain function and work as an anti-inflammatory in the body.

Another advantage of chia seeds is their ability to help maintain steady blood sugar levels. Chia seeds form a gel in the stomach that slows the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar. Carbohydrates that quickly break down into sugar stimulate a surge of insulin to be released into the blood, causing blood sugar problems. Eating foods such as chia seeds that break down slowly helps blood sugar to rise and fall steadily throughout the day.

Chia seeds also contain a substantial amount of fiber, protein, essential amino acids, calcium and minerals. Available in white and black seeds, some manufacturers state that the white chia seed is superior. However, there is no research to back up this claim and as of now no significant difference.

Incorporating chia seeds into your diet is easy. Simply add to smoothies, yogurt, salads, dressings, cereal, water… anything. They can be eaten both raw or cooked, though cooking them may damage their fragile omega fatty acids. I like to add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds to coconut water and drink first thing in the morning. When adding to liquid, drink fast, as chia will develop into a gel-like consistency. Enjoy!

Summer Must-Have: Murad Perfecting Serum

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Dry-skinned girls, listen up! Banish stubborn dry patches, smooth fine lines and wrinkles and prime face for flawless makeup application with Murad Perfecting Serum.

This serum is the ultimate dry-skin relief. It is designed to be worn over a moisturizer to lock in hydration and revive natural moisture levels. The gel-consistency glides over the skin swimmingly and leaves skin silky-smooth. Enriched with Squalane, an ingredient derived from olives, the Perfecting Serum intensely hydrates and wraps the skin in ultra rich moisture.  Avocado and Evening Primrose Oils seal-in the hydration and Ceramides prevent flaking and itchiness while maximizing suppleness.

This serum can be used alone or under makeup to create the perfect canvas for makeup application. It can also be used all-over the face or just where needed. It erases those stubborn dry patches that foundation loves to cling-to and creates a flawless, long-wearing finish. A summer must-have.

The Breakup: Kinerase Hydraboost Intensive Treatment

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Kinerase Hydraboost Intensive Treatment

I wanted so much to love Kinerase Hydraboost Intensive Treatment, as I am a fan of the product line. However, it just did not work out between us.

Hydraboost promises to bind moisture to the skin, using the brands exclusive “moisture magnet.” This magnet claims to attract water to thirsty skin cells and keep it locked-in long after ordinary moisturizers have stopped working.

In my experience, my skin feels almost more dry after applying this serum. The gel-like consistency seems to hover on top of the skin’s surface and not completely sink-in. I did not see any change or hydration to my skin’s appearance.

Kinerase Hydraboost Intensive Treatment did not work on my skin, but that does not mean it might not work for you.

It’s not you…It’s me. Hopefully, we can still be friends.