A few weeks ago, I introduced you to Safeway‘s new mom to mom line of baby products designed by moms, for moms. The line, created exclusively for Safeway and it’s subsidiaries, was relaunched with a new, improved design.  Products include diapers, wipes, skin care products, and nutritional drinks.  You can read my full review on the line here.

My first giveaway is over but I’m happy to say that I have another!

Win It! To celebrate the launch of the new line, one of you will win a Mom to Mom Gift Basket which will include diapers, baby oil, baby powder, baby shampoo, unscented travel wipes, additional wipes, formula, and sunscreen.  To enter, simply tweet with one useful tip you’d give a new/expectant mother with the hashtag #momtomom

You don’t have to leave a comment here as I’ll choose a winner from all twitter entries but please remember to include @rockinmama so I can keep track of your entry. The giveaway will close on August 10th at 11:59 PM PST and I’ll need the winner’s information on August 12th.

Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. Giveaway sponsored by Safeway.

I’m very careful about the skin care products I try, particularly if I’m using them on my face.  Because I’ve had such a wonderful experience using bareMinerals mineral foundation, I decided to spend a few weeks trying their new skin care line.  Here is a brief description, adapted from the site:

The foundation of the bareMinerals Skin Care Line is their RareMinerals ActiveSoil Complex, which is composed of the Earth’s natural, effective and mineral-abundant soil.  When the  minerals are extracted, they produce a densely rich concentrate proven to deliver faster cell turnover, smaller pores, increased luminosity and softer, smooth, younger-looking skin.

Apart from having combination skin, my main skin care concern is minimizing and preventing future fine lines and wrinkles.  I prefer a regimen that is easy to follow, yet effective.

For the last few weeks, I’ve been using their Naturally Luminous Skin Renewing Trio which includes a 30-day cleanser, moisturizer, and eye treatment.  The Purifying Facial Cleanser is gentle, yet effective at removing dirt and makeup without being drying my skin out.  The Purely Nourishing Moisturizer is hydrating and absorbs well without feeling oily or greasy.  I can apply makeup after using the moisturizer without feeling like my face is weighted down with product.  I only wish it had some sun protection in it.  The Firming Eye Treatment is wonderful for reducing puffiness, particularly on those days when I have not slept enough.  The entire line of skin care products are free from synthetic fragrances, artificial oils and parabens.

Overall, I have been quite pleased with the line.  My skin feels great and I haven’t experienced any redness or breakouts.  There are several products in the line including an Exfoliating Treatment Cleanser and a Pure Transformation Night Treatment I’m going to look into the next time I’m at Sephora or Macy’s (two stores that care bareMinerals).

Individual products retail for $18-$28.  The company also bundles groups of products depending on your skin care needs which adds a value savings.

Here is a brief introduction to the line.

For more information about bareMinerals Skin Care, or to find a retailer in your area, just visit their website. You can also follow bareMinerals on Facebook/Twitter.

No compensation was received for this post. Product samples were provided which helped facilitate this review.

Last week, I introduced you to Kiehl’s Since 1851 which offers skin, hair, and body care products for men.   With their simple, but attractive (and recyclable) packaging and unique formulations which include botanical extracts, the company offers products that address a variety of skin care needs.

In anticipation of Father’s Day, I have teamed up with Kiehl’s Since 1851 to offer you an amazing giveaway.  One of you will win a gift basket with products hand-selected by Chris Salgardo, President of Kiehl’s!  Here is what you need to do to enter:

The giveaway, which includes over $500 worth of products from Kiehl’s hand selected by Chris, will run from Monday, June 13th through Thursday, June 16th.

1.  Follow Chris @ChrisAtKiehls.  You can also follow @KiehlsNYC if you’d like but it’s not required.

2.  To enter, you’ll either need to tweet a picture of yourself and your dad or a reason why the dad in your life should receive this gift to @RockinMama and @ChrisAtKiehls with the hashtag #KiehlsDads

3.  Be sure to leave a comment on the giveaway post letting me know you tweeted.

4.  And, as long as each response is different, there is no limit to your entries.  : )

Here is the entire list of products in the gift basket:
1. Rosa Arctica

2. Facial Fuel Transformer Age Correcting Moisture-Gel for Men

3. Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash

4. Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer

5. Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men

6. Facial Fuel No-Shine Moisturizing Lip Balm

7. Facial Fuel Energizing Tonic

8. Cross-Terrain All-In-One Refueling Wash

9. Ultimate Man Body Scrub Soap

10. Ultimate Strength Hand Salve

11. Cryste Marine Firming Eye Treatment

12. Midnight Recovery Concentrate

13. Superbly Efficient Anti-Perspirant and Deodorant Cream

14. Lip Balm #1

15. Crème with Silk Groom

16. Creative Cream Wax

17. “Close-Shavers” Squadron Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream – White eagle

18. Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner

19. Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+

20. Amino Acid Shampoo

21. Hair Conditioner and Grooming Aid Formula 133

22. Crème de Corps

23. Powerful Strength Line Reducing Concentrate

And stay tuned for the 411, straight from the hubby on Kiehl’s Since 1851!

No compensation was received for this post. Products for review and giveaway supplied by Kiehl’s.

Thank you to Kroger and CoverGirl for sponsoring this review. While CoverGirl provided me with a $30 gift card to purchase CoverGirl products at Kroger stores, the opinions I’ve expressed here are solely my own, represent my honest viewpoint, and not that of CoverGirl, Kroger, or Proctor & Gamble. I am making no claims about the products, just expressing my thoughtful opinion. Clever Girls Collective supports Blog With Integrity

Most days you’ll find me in jeans and a simple shirt, hair pulled back running around in flip-flops. I probably haven’t straightened my hair or done my nails. But you will find me with a little foundation, lip gloss, and basic eye makeup. It’s the little things like a touch of makeup that make me still feel feminine and pretty (at least to my husband!).

Before I had children, I spent a lot of time (and money) on clothing, shoes, accessories, and makeup. These days, my children and their needs come first. But that doesn’t mean I have to give up my beauty regime. Armed with a $30 gift card, I set out on a shopping spree at Ralphs, a chain of supermarkets based in Southern California and under the umbrella of Kroger. My mission? A COVERGIRL shopping haul!

The brand, which has been around for 50 years, offers affordable products that make it easy for women to accent their natural beauty. I decided to try three different product lines…Clean, TRUblend, and NatureLuxe (yes, I went over the $30 a bit). I particularly like Clean Liquid Makeup because they have a formulation for Sensitive Skin (that’s me!). I picked up a foundation, which cost $11.99. The foundation I used to purchase costs $35 and I feel like CoverGirl’s foundation works to smooth out the look of my skin and conceal imperfections without feeling heavy or greasy.

Because I like a powder finish, I also decided to try their TRUblend Minerals Loose Powder which costs just $8.99. I absolutely love this powder. It sets the liquid foundation well without feeling heavy ,and gives an even finish. I prefer to use a brush with the Minerals as opposed to the application puff it that comes with it because I tend to get better coverage.

The last product I picked up during my shopping haul at Ralphs was LashBlast Volume Blasting Mascara which retails for $12.99. I actually have decent eyelashes so I don’t always wear mascara. But on those days when I want to put a bit of emphasis on my eyes, I’ll lengthen my lashes with mascara. If your goal is longer, fuller lashes, this is the mascara for you. Once I applied the mascara and allowed it to dry (just a few seconds), it stayed put and didn’t run or smear for the 10+ hours I have been wearing it. I opted against the waterproof version because I typically find it impossible to remove.

For approximately $34 (plus tax), I came away with a foundation, a loose powder, and a mascara. I could easily use these 3 products on any given day and feel beautiful. I think the only other product I would have liked to get is eye shadow.

Because I was very interested in trying COVERGIRL’s new NatureLuxe line, I decided to pick up both the Silk Foundation and Gloss Balm. The foundation is amazing. I don’t think I’ve seen my skin look so flawless. It definitely goes on lighter and softer than the Clean foundation but still offers great coverage. I went out the other day without setting the foundation as I normally do, and was content with the coverage and overall look I achieved. Unlike your traditional foundation, this one has a light scent and offers a bit of protection from the sun.

The NatureLuxe Gloss Balm which contains mango and shea butter, goes on lighter than lipstick, but offers the color and shine of a lip balm. I like the fact that it doesn’t feel sticky and includes a bit of protection from the sun. It also has a pleasant scent.

As someone who has used department store beauty brands for many years, I have to say that I was quite impressed with CoverGirl’s beauty products. The company offers a variety of lines, depending on your needs, and offers women an affordable option for enhancing their beauty. Be sure to check your local Kroger or subsidiary for CoverGirl!

For over 159 years, the company has offered “the finest quality skin and hair care formulas derived from unique natural ingredients and formulated through the most advanced science.”  Kiehl’s was founded in New York City and is committed to providing personal, individual service to it’s customers.

This Father’s Day, I’ve partnered with Kiehl’s to offer an amazing giveaway of skin care products handpicked by Chris Salgardo, who serves as the President of the company.  If you follow Chris on Twitter, you’ll find him tweeting out personal recommendations to followers.  If you’re looking for a specific type of product, definitely tweet him!

The giveaway, which includes over $500 worth of products from Kiehl’s hand selected by Chris, will run from Monday, June 13th through Thursday, June 16th.  When the giveaway goes live next week, I’ll have the entire list of products!

It’s unusual for me to run a giveaway for a product I haven’t actually used, so in the next week or so, I’ll be sharing my husband’s thoughts on the products after he’s had an opportunity to use them.

So you have an idea of how the contest will work, here are the details:

1.  Follow Chris @ChrisAtKiehls.  You can also follow @KiehlsNYC if you’d like but it’s not required.

2.  To enter, you’ll either need to tweet a picture of yourself and your dad or a reason why the dad in your life should receive this gift to @RockinMama and @ChrisAtKiehls

3.  Be sure to leave a comment on the giveaway post letting me know you tweeted.

Have a fabulous weekend and we’ll see you next week!

No compensation was received for this post. Products for review and giveaway supplied by Kiehl’s.

My first thought when I began using Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Handsoap was that it smelled lovely.  After about a week of use, I was content with the fact that my hands weren’t dry (we wash a lot of hands around here).  Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day is a line of household cleaners, laundry care, and body care products derived from natural ingredients and essential oils  Despite the fact that you won’t find ammonia, bleach, parabens or phosphates, the products smell fantastic and are very effective at removing dirt.

The products are not only safe for your family, they’re safe for the environment.  All of the liquid products are biodegradable while some of the powder products contain minerals that break down into non-harmful products (rather than biodegrading).  The packaging is recyclable and the company does not participate in animal testing.

I was really pleased with the Liquid Handsoap and am interested in trying some of the other products in the line.  Through the end of June, Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day is touring the country to educate and inspire communities towards a healthy, green, sustainable lifestyle.  Booths and hand wash stations will be set up in Boston and San Francisco at local garden clubs, green workshops, parks and recreation groups, eco-friendly volunteer events, and more. Samples, coupons, and seed packets will also be available at these events.

For more information, or to locate an event in your area, just visit Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Community Garden Party.

No compensation was received for this post.  Product samples provided.

Photo Credit: Walmart

Olay recently released their new Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System, professionally and clinically designed to cleanse  more effectively than conventional cleansers.  Most over-the-counter cleansers simply don’t remove makeup in it’s entirety.  More often than not, I’ll wash and dry my face, only to find makeup residue on the towel.  I’m not a fan of washcloths because I have sensitive skin and I usually end up causing irritation.

Photo Credit: Walmart

Olay’s latest product features a two-speed rotating system that offers deep cleansing and gentle exfoliation.  Having used a more expensive counterpart, I was pleased with my experience.  The unit is compact and lightweight which makes it perfect for traveling.  There are two speeds which means you have some control over how the system cleanses on your face but I would really like the system to have a built-in timer so that it shuts off after the recommended cleansing time.  You can use Olay’s Pro-X Exfoliating Renewal Cleanser (a 6 ounce tube retails for $17.97) for daily exfoliating or your own preferred cleanser.  A sample is provided with the unit so you can try the product out.  I like how soft my skin felt after using the cleanser with the system for the past week and felt like my skin was cleaner.  I wasn’t noticing makeup on my towel after drying my face, particularly after a few days of use. While I think the system is suitable for daily use, I found that when I used it morning and night with the cleanser provided, it was too harsh and irritating for my skin.  Ultimately, I ended up using the system just once a day without irritation and will plan to exfoliate just a few times a week rather than daily.

Photo Credit: Walmart

I really like that the system is water-resistant which means I can use it in the shower and save a little time.  The unit only comes with one brush, but with typical use, it will only need to be replaced every three months (a 2-count retails for less than $10).  It should be noted that two double A batteries are required but included with the unit. The only other thing I’d like is to have a holder so that I could store the unit on my bathroom counter.

At less than $30, beauty doesn’t have to break the budget.  You can purchase Olay’s Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System online or at stores nationwide.

Disclosure: I am a Walmart mom and have been compensated for my time.  I also received the product which helped to facilitate this review.

Eucerin offers skin care products specifically designed for individuals with dry, sensitive skin.  The skin care brand is recommended by dermatologists and works with the discipline to develop effective products based on the highest dermatological standards.  As someone who is concerned about the safety of the products I use in and on my body, I was impressed to learn that you can visit the company’s website and search through their ingredient database to find products specific to your needs.  On the site, you can read about their commitment to social, economic, and ecological responsibility.

I had an opportunity to try out the Daily Skin Balance Skin Fortifying Body Lotion and Hand Creme, the Calming Creme Daily Moisturizer, and the Calming Body Wash Daily Shower Oil.  My first initial impression always begins with the scent of the product.  The Daily Skin Balance line has a light fragrance while the Calming line is fragrance free.  Honestly, I prefer the fragrance-free line for lotions but would really like to see the Shower Oil lightly scented.  I absolutely adore the way the Shower Oil feels on my skin.  It cleanses and hydrates leaving your skin soft and moisturized.  The Shower Oil is fragrance and soap-free and therefore gentle enough to be used on children.

Of the three lotions/creams I received, I found the Calming Creme worked best for my specific skin profile.  I have very dry, irritated hands, particularly after my 12 hour shifts and the Calming Creme soothes and moisturizes without feeling heavy or greasy.  The Daily Skin Balance line, in my opinion, is more for everyday use and really designed to be protective rather than corrective.

Overall, I was impressed with brand, particularly because it’s available nationwide at pharmacies and grocers.

For more information about Eucerin’s complete skin care line, visit their website.

No compensation was received for this post.  Product samples were provided which helped facilitate this review.

I’m always hesitant to try new skin care products. In fact, I turn down *most* skin care review opportunities because I’m afraid my sensitive skin will react.  A gal I worked with through the blog a few years ago introduced me to a new skin care company created by a cosmetic chemist.  clickR Skin Care was created to help his son’s acne and is targeted towards 18-30 year olds.  And while I’m not technically in that age range (ahem!), I like that the line includes natural plant and mineral-based ingredients in contrast to the harsher formulas marketed to treat acne.

There are actually three lines….Figure It Out which promotes daily, healthy skincare and repair, No More Derma Drama which is comprised of several acne treatment products designed to exfoliate, remove debris and transmit nutrients to prevent environmental DNA damage, and Easy Karma, designed specifically for eyes train and skin care issues related to the eyes.  I started using the Pearl Wash and Diamond Dust Polisher from the Figure It Out line several weeks ago. Not only have I not had a reaction, I actually like the way my skin feels. The two main ingredients in the wash are Tea Tree Oil, designed to clear up skin imperfections, refine pores, and soothe skin irritation and Jojoba Oil, designed to reduce lines, wrinkles, and skin marks. It has a light, pleasant smell and is very gentle on the skin. The main ingredients in the serum include Diamond Dust, which polishes skin and boosts radiance, Indian Gooseberry, an anti-oxidant rich in Vitamin C, and Centella Asiatica Leaf, designed to improve the synthesis of collagen and proteins. This lightweight serum can be used once or twice a day in the morning and/or at night. Once it’s rubbed in, you won’t really notice it, which is nice, because I don’t like greasy, oily products on my skin.

While the products are targeted for the under 30 year old skin, they can really be used by anyone for their anti-aging benefits.  I like the fact that you don’t have to use a lot to achieve results and that they can be used on sensitive skin.  ClickR skin care products are 100% vegan and free from artificial colors, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, endocrine disruptors, petrochemicals, and benzoyl peroxide.

ClickR skin care products retail for $20-$40 and can be found at Sephora.

No compensation was received for this post. Product samples provided.

Most days, I don’t have a lot of time for primping.  I’m fortunate if I get in more than a 5 minute shower and a window of time to fix my hair and apply some lip gloss.  It’s amazing what 10 minutes of beautifying does for your mood…your self-confidence.  If nothing else, I make sure to care for my skin.  Cleansing, moisturizing and protecting it with sunscreen are the priorities, particularly as I age.

Clarisonic, the innovators of the skincare sonic technology, developed the Look Good…Feel Better program to empower women battling cancer to be beautiful.  The company’s trained cosmetologists teach women how to cope with treatment-related skin changes and hair loss to help them look and feel like themselves.  Clarisonic makes a $15 donation for the cause with each Limited Edition Clarisonic Mia purchased, $5 for each Pink Skin Cleansing System purchased, and $4 for each Pink Mia purchased.

Clarisonic’s innovative sonic technology gently yet effectively loosens dirt and oil to clear your pores.  I’ve been using the system for over a year and really like how clean my skin looks and feels afterward.  Tip.  Use it regularly (as in daily) to reap the most benefits for your skin.  Here is a bit more information from the site:

Removes 6x more makeup than manual cleansing
Leaves skin feeling and looking smoother
Cleanses so well that products absorb better
Gentle enough for twice daily use
Helps reduce oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes
Helps reduce the appearance of visible pores

Clarisonic offers a variety of cleansing systems and skin care products.  I’m particularly interested in learning more about their Opal Sonic Infusion System, which targets fine lines, puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.  The Opal delivers eye serum more effectively in a short amount of time. In one minute, the system provides more than 7,500 micro massages to instantly hydrate, smooth and brighten the appearance of the eye area.

For more information, just visit their site.

No compensation was provided for this post.  Product sample provided.