I've been wanting to get on board with the BB and CC Cream trend, but I have to admit that I've been having a hard time buying into the hype. When BB creams first came on the market, everyone was buzzing about them. I've tried a few and while they've been fine, they kind of felt like glorified tinted moisturizers that I saw no real benefit from. With most BB creams, I needed to wear foundation on top of them to achieve full coverage. I just didn't see the point in straying from my beloved moisturizers. Then came CC Creams, which was kind of confusing because many of us wondered, what’s the difference? Before I tell you about my new obsession with a product that really has made it's own little spot in the makeup world, here's the rundown: BB stands for blemish balm. It was meant to be an all-in-one product to cover you with moisturizer, primer, SPF, foundation, and serum. For me, most felt like tinted moisturizers. BB’s provided me with little to no coverage. The CC in CC creams stands for color and/or complexion correcting. A CC is pretty much a BB, but with better skin care benefits and coverage. CC's have a matte texture, so they work well as a base and look great standing alone. I was super confused when BB's started being shown up by CC's, but after trying a handful of different products, Pur Minerals CC wins the BB-CC Challenge as far as I’m concerned. Pur Minerals CC Cream lives up to everything I was hoping for and felt like we were being promised in a cream! Its light weight mousse-like formula gives great coverage, takes care of minor imperfections, is SPF 40, and has skin care benefits! I have pretty fair skin and unlike a tinted moisturizer, Pur Mineral's CC Cream Light blended really well with my skin tone and gave some great coverage … almost full coverage. So much so really, I wore it on TV with no other face makeup. That's the real test when it comes to complexion correction and coverage. I felt confident enough with my complexion that I didn't even bother with foundation for a TV appearance! It's that good! It comes in 4 different shades, light, medium, tan, and dark. I’m very fair, light was perfect for me. For many women, I know the wear time of a product is super important. I’m not one who brings makeup to work and does any reapplying besides lips once I leave the house. It’s just not something I ever think about or feel necessary. The days I wore Pur Minerals CC Cream on its own for the day, I did notice needing a little refresher by the end of the work day. On the flip side, the days that I used a little powder to set it, I was good to go all day long and didn't need any touch ups. A little bit of powder to set is the best way to achieve a full day face without touch ups! The only thing I’m less than in love with is the packaging. While I love how clean and neat the packaging is, for me the tube pump isn't ideal. At the same time, when you love what’s inside, you don’t mind working for it a little. If you've been curious about CC Creams and whether or not this is a product to get on board with, I'd suggest trying Pur Minerals CC Cream before any others. Having tried so many that are out there, I can safely say no other CC Cream actually lived up to the C's (coverage, complexion correcting) like this one. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram and G+. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! *Disclosure

My friend, fellow blogger, and holistic skincare expert, Rachael Pontillo has a book coming out on September 3rd: Love Your Skin, Love Yourself: Achieve Beauty, Health, and Vitality from the Inside Out and Outside In. It'll be available on both Amazon and Kindle. Considering that her skin is absolutely flawless and nothing short of amazing, I needed to find out all I could about what she is dishing in her new book. Women with skin issues often feel like they have to hide or that there is something wrong with them. Whether the condition starts as early as adolescence, or develops later on during a pregnancy or for other reasons, it affects much more than just the skin. Sometimes issues that accompany a skin condition are physical such as weight gain, digestive issues, systemic infection, chronic inflammation, etc. Other times, however, the issues are emotional and even spiritual. This was the case for author and coach, Rachael Pontillo. After living the majority of her life with acne, she cleared up her skin for good (and simultaneously lost 80 lbs) once she cleaned up her diet and upgraded her lifestyle. Though she looked and felt better on the outside and was healthier on the inside, she still had issues having to do with self-image and self-love. These are issues common to many women, especially those who have experienced a visible skin condition, and many feel misunderstood, alone and insecure because of it. By incorporating simple practices into her daily routine, Rachael was able to feel beautiful, confident, and empowered—that’s what she wants her readers to experience after reading this book. By reading Love Your Skin, Love Yourself, women with skin concerns and self image issues will discover how to heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Q&A Shannon: What is holistic skincare? Rachael: I define “holistic skincare” a little differently than some other practitioners who use the term. Many aestheticians and spas consider themselves "holistic" if they use all-natural, organic products and provide non-invasive and wellness oriented services. While this is a piece of the puzzle, it isn’t the complete picture. Other practitioners like health coaches and nutritionists define holistic skincare simply as "beauty from the inside out." Again, this is an important piece of the puzzle, but after my years of education, personal life experience, and professional experience as a health coach, aesthetician, and health and wellness writer, I’ve come to realize that both are necessary to ensure the best results. So my definition of holistic skincare is “caring for the skin from the inside out with proper nutrition and lifestyle choices and from the outside in with safe and healthy products, proper hygiene, and the right skincare regimen. Shannon: Why did you decide to focus this book and your career on holistic skincare? Rachael: I've lived more than half my life feeling ugly and insecure because of acne. I tried everything from prescription medications to over-the-counter medications, chemical peels and microdermabrasion, drugstore products, department store products, mail order products, and professional strength products. Some things worked, and many didn't…and those that worked usually had side effects and only worked until I ran out of the product. I knew I was missing something. When I changed my diet and saw the quick and dramatic improvement in my skin, I knew I was onto something. However, based on my knowledge of the body as a whole and the skin as its barrier, I knew that the skin needs hydration and nourishment on the outside too. Plus, there are so many harmful chemicals and toxins in products and in our environment that the skin takes quite a beating. My own experience changed my life and I've had clients with similar life-changing experiences, and I knew that this message needed to be brought to a larger scale with this book and in my other work. Shannon: Is holistic skincare as effective as expensive and high-tech spa and cosmetic treatments? Rachael: Holistic skincare and conventional/medical skincare are completely different modalities—it’s like comparing apples to oranges, and the efficacy in this case is subjective. Some people consider quick and dramatic results to be effective, even if those results fade quickly and require numerous ongoing treatments to maintain and come with risks and potential side effects. Others consider long-lasting, sustainable results that can be achieved at home over time to be more effective. The efficacy of holistic skincare varies per person, since each person’s condition, current diet and lifestyle, and physical and emotional constitutions are so different. Some people do achieve quick and dramatic results like I did, and these results continue to last and my skin continues to improve years later. Others see a more gradual improvement over time, but also experience improvements in other areas of their health and lives—all of which become part of a permanent lifestyle. That being said, holistic skincare is not a quick fix for everyone…but the results are long lasting for everyone. Because of that and the fact that it doesn't come with a laundry list of risks and side effects, I’d say it’s more effective than conventional aesthetic and cosmetic treatments and procedures. Shannon: How is this book different from all the other skincare books out there? Rachael: There are many great books covering the nutritional aspect of skincare, with certain diets and detox regimens that really do focus on the "inside out" piece. There are also many wonderful books covering the importance of natural skincare products, with recipes for handmade products as well as information about the effects of the chemicals in conventional products. And of course there is a myriad of self-help books that talk about transformation, lifestyle, self-esteem, finding one’s true self, and more recently, the concept of self-love. However I haven’t seen many that encompass all aspects—nutrition, lifestyle, topical skincare, and self-love—and really tell the whole story. Without all of these components, my own healing would not have been possible or sustainable. I've also noticed that many holistic skincare and diet books out there tell people what to do and why to do it, but not necessarily HOW to do it—meaning how to incorporate these new changes into their existing lifestyles without feeling completely overwhelmed. Many also insinuate that these changes are easy for everyone, and I think that this message is part of the reason why so many people have a hard time keeping up with diets or lifestyle changes. In Love Your Skin, Love Yourself I tell it like it is—some of the changes I made were easy for me but some did not come naturally at all; and there were times that I almost quit completely. I discuss how I came through those challenges and also share tips for how readers can get started and what to do if things seem overwhelming or challenging. Life is not always sunshine and rainbows and most journeys of true healing and transformation have areas of shadow…but the shadow passes and then the sun returns. That being said, we can’t ignore the shadow. Too many books don’t talk about the parts of the process that are hard for people—I wanted to present my own journey as well as the changes I recommend honestly and authentically, and for me that means telling the whole story—the triumphs but also the challenges and how I dealt with them in that moment. Shannon: Was this book hard to write? Rachael: Yes and no. A large amount of this book came to me in spurts from my muse late at night. I’m a very creative person, and I've learned that when the muse wants to work I step out of the way and let her have at it. However a lot of these late night musings didn't transition well from one thought to another. I decided to get some help and work with a book coach as well as a very talented editor to help me organize my thoughts. Though I've been writing for nearly half my life, writing blog posts and magazine articles is very different from writing a book since they are more condensed and one doesn't necessarily have to flow into another. The thought of writing an entire book on one topic was very scary to me. This book is also much more personal than my more fact-oriented articles and even most of my blog posts. Piecing together the manuscript and going through the editing process was very emotional for me, since I didn't realize when I initially wrote some of it how raw my own thoughts and experiences still were for me. That’s the part of the process I was expecting the least—feeling vulnerable. Writing has always come naturally to me, as has expressing myself in other ways, so the actual writing part was not hard—it was the feeling of vulnerability that was more difficult. The process of going through the editing, design, formatting, proofreading, and getting the book published was challenging at times but was an incredible experience at the same time. I am so blessed to have consulted with my incredible topic matter experts: Dr. Ben Johnson from Osmosis Skincare, Dr. Georgia Tetlow from Philadelphia Integrative Medicine, Sharonah Rapseik, PhD from Spa Holistica, and Christine Arylo, bestselling author and Queen of Self-Love. My editor, Daniella Thoren, designer Michelle Fitz of Hat Trick Strategies, and publisher Sennin Group also really helped the process run smoothly and helped me create something that looks more amazing than I ever could have imagined. Overall it’s been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life and I look forward to doing it again! About Rachael: Rachael Pontillo is a holistic health and image coach with more than 15 years in the beauty and healthcare industries. Following her own challenges with acne and weight, she has helped many women overcome skin conditions and self image issues in her private coaching practice. She is also a published author whose work has been featured in the top aesthetics trade journal, Dermascope Magazine, the international magazine Complete Wellbeing, as well as on several blogs and websites such as Spa Week Daily, Holistic Vanity, Organic Lifestyle Magazine, and WholesomeOne, in addition to her own popular blog, Holistically Haute. She is a recipient of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition’s prestigious Health Leadership Award, is a featured skincare expert for NeoCell Health, and spoke on a national stage before the Association of Holistic Skincare Practitioners Conference where she educated aestheticians about the benefits of offering nutritional counseling services to their clients. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram and G+. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Shannon on G+

Two Everyday Heroes Translate their Inner Strength into their Outer Pow!

Sherona McFadden of Harleysville, PA and Keara Ramos-Coles of Greenlane, PA are two women who define what it means to be everyday heroes. Sherona is a wife, a mother of five children (two are affected by a disability and a serious medical condition), a friend, a working-woman, a singer/songwriter, and a community/church volunteer. Sherona emulates creative flare to the point where she seems to breathe it with every idea she speaks and song she writes. She is a natural visionary, but with much of her time spent caring for her family and/or living between frequent doctor appointments and hospital visits, Sherona struggles with a sense of zapped energy. She longs to reconnect with her keen sense of artistic allure when it comes to makeup, and shared with me that she is looking for some products/looks to reignite this flame. Keara is a wife, a mother of three children (all of which have a learning disability), a friend, a professional caregiver for the elderly and those affected by disability, and also volunteers in her church and community whenever she is able. Keara so poignantly shared her struggle, which so many caregivers face, with balancing taking care of her self vs. others. Her compassionate heart for others wins in weight, but with that she said, “I am now at a time in my life that as much as I love taking care of everyone else I am also learning that I have to find ways to take care of myself.” They’re inner strength and love has an overflowing glow, and I think that Keara hit a key note in understanding that it doesn’t have to be about choosing to care for someone else vs. yourself, but rather finding the delicate balance and boundaries to care for both. Keara further shared that she has come to this balance by “Placing God first and trusting Him with all I have.” It’s the spiritual aspect of beauty we so often forget, as it is this peace that has allowed her to rest assured that she doesn’t have to combat her struggles or that of others alone. There really is a beauty in peace. Harnessing the power of their wow factor during our self-created mini-caregiver retreat was no trouble at all! My awesome husband kindly took the children out for a swim while we started our evening with some good conversation, a homemade dinner, and quenched our thirst with water-enhanced Stur (of course)! We followed up dinner with hysterical laughter while striking the before shot poses. Boom! Then these gorgeous ladies took a seat to discuss what they wanted for their look. Sherona wanted to flesh out her creative nature with some bright colors on her already exotic-looking eyes, while Keara opted for an elegant glamour that she could recreate during her daily routine, more then just what she said, “Is my once a month dress up night.” Before applying their makeup both ladies cleansed their faces with Kaia’s 100% biodegradable juicy bamboo cleansing cloths. Keara commented, “Ooooh I LOVE the smell!” and Sherona joined, “and it feels so good on my skin…doesn’t dry me out.” I informed the girls that the cloths were also vitamin rich, packed with 8 purely plant-based essential oils, alcohol-free, sulfate-free, and awesome for so many other reasons. Next, I moisturized both ladies skin with Delivre. I decided that since I only tried it on myself I wanted to see if they felt the same as I did about it (Read: 5Products That Will Help You Transform and Revive.) Ding, Ding, Ding, just as I had felt in my last post, Delivre delivered! Sherona and Keara have dry patches on their skin too. Hydrating with water and using topical hydration like a moisturizer are imperative elements in maintaining the health of one of your most important, and definitely the largest organs in your body (yes it is an organ!), which also happens to be one of the primary defense systems of your body too…so treat it especially well. *Note: it is also essential to have a smooth base for the application of great looking makeup. Then I applied the makeup mediums to create the elegant and innovative look that each woman aspired to produce. As always, eyes first when applying makeup, so you can clean up the rest of the face later. For Sherona’s eyes (Creative/Innovative look), I used MAC’s Back to the Beach Collection Sweet & Punchy, TIGI’s Posh Quad, and Smashbox’s Nocturnal and Nude, e.l.f.’s super affordable liquid eyeliner, and I intertwined her lashes with Butter London’s Wink Jaded Jack with Kevyn Aucoin’s Rich Pitch Black The Curling Mascara. For Keara’s eyes (Elegant Glamor Look) I used AVEDA’s petal essence Ginger Root, TIGI’s Posh high density quad eyeshadow, and Smashbox’s Bark from their Studio Pop eye palette, e.l.f’s liquid liner, and Kevyn Aucoin’s Rich Pitch Black The Curling Mascara. Let me just add that I LOVE Kevyn’s Mascara, I have had countless people ask if I was wearing false lashes…that is how good we are talking! Finally, the rest of their resilient canvases were finished off using Mally’s Pro-Tricks correcting palette, the variance in Mally’s palette allowed me to create just the right combo to match each of their skin tones. I added a natural looking shimmer to their skin using e.l.f.’s baked blush peachy cheeky, and accentuated their cheek bones using MAC’s In the Groove collection: Mineralized blush duo, New vibe. For the lips I used AVEDA’s lip liner Plum Petals coated with their rehydrating lip glaze on Keara, and on Sherona I used AVEDA’s lip glaze by itself. Check out the final results and drop our awesome heroes a line of encouragement! Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram and G+. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Courtney on G+. *Disclosure

As a caregiver, both on the floor as a nurse who works 12-hour night shifts and a parent of children with special needs, I often don’t get the recommended hours of sleep. Yes, I’ve seen all the studies of just how bad lack of sleep is for you…and no I would not recommend skipping out on the Z’s if there is a choice on the matter, but the truth remains that it is part of my (and many other caregivers) unavoidable realty. Since this is the case, instead of stressing about it, I implement little things throughout my day to help revive my energy and keep my look lively. First, it’s part of my self-care routine. Secondly, I truly believe that it helps those I care for to know that they are in good hands. I mean do any of you really want a tired-looking stressed out nurse to walk into you or your loved one’s hospital room and say she is the one who’s going to take care of you for the next 12 hours? Not if we had the choice, right? I am not sure of many who would contend the ideal notion of wanting a nurse with a positive attitude, know-how, and a put together look that sends an unspoken message of trust.

5 Products That Will Help You Transform and Revive http://t.co/xeumiPGEaW

— A Girl's Gotta Spa! (@agirlsgottaspa) January 14, 2015

The saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” So, since I have recently been struggling with anemia and recovering from a painful injury, I thought it would be a neat opportunity to allow a personal picture story post for you as I got ready for work. Here is a peak at my paler then usual face (from lack of sun, sleep, and anemia), undone hair, and the five product lines I used to transform and revive. The last pic is a must see for the transformation! Step 1: Take a refreshing shower with Marc Anthony (pause, lol) sulfate-free Oil of Morocco Shampoo and Conditioner for some super workable soft hair. When you get out of your makeshift oasis, toss in a bit of his Argan oil treatment and then some volumizing mousse. I am very picky when it comes to my hair products, as I have plunged the pocket in the past and came up with less than satisfying results. However, I am happy to report that Marc’s line is healthy for your hair, fantastic feeling, and super-easy on the wallet. It’s hard to find this type of a triple threat! Step 2: Grab myself a cool glass of H2O to sip on while I get ready, and add a 10 second squeeze of water enhancer, Stur. I love that Stur has no calories and uses Stevia to sweeten. Besides the fact that I am hydrating, it allows me to throw back SEVEN energy giving, health-enhancing, essential vitamins. Stur meets the win-win category in my book! Tastes great too with your choice of six different flavors to yum it up with. Step 3: Moisturize! My skin is normally that beautiful Italian-olive tone and supple, but with my recent conditions it’s been pale and suffering from dry patches. Yeah, OK plus I’ve hit my mid-thirties too and can’t go on without it anyway. I used Delivre's daily nourishing moisturizer for my face and their hydrating lip balm for my puckers. Delivre delivered! It was thick, creamy and smooth, but not greasy. It was also just the right skin basis for an over-all smooth look.   Step 4: Be successful in achieving transformation by including your base and primers. They truly make a HUGE difference in the outcome. I used Mally’s pro-tricks correcting palette to hide the dark circles under my eyes, as well as some age spots on the side of my face (thank you Mally!) I also use and swear by Urban Decay’s Eye shadow primer potion, as well as their Naked Skin (my foundation base). Naked Skin fused with my skin as if it was my own, giving it a natural appearance while improving my skin tone. Let’s just say that Naked Skin is a totally appropriate name.

Step 5: Apply your makeup. A tip I learned from makeup artist, Ashley Smith, is to apply eye makeup first. That way you can clean up underneath later for a clean finished look. I used Mirabella’s eye shadow, as well as Urban Decay’s Moondust Zodiac and Intergalactic. For my lashes and liner, I used Rimmel London’s waterproof gel liner and ScandalEYEs flex mascara. Lastly, I brushed on L’Oreal Project Runway’s the Temptress’s blush/226. AND VOILA! As usual I LOVE to hear from my gals, so give me your feedback and share some tips on what you do to transform! Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram and G+. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!Courtney on G+. *Disclosure

I like a simply smoky eye. So for this summer smoky eye how to, I'll tell you in 6 easy steps how I created a great daytime smoky eye that I was literally able to do in under 5 minutes.

Products used: Urban Decay Primer Potion, CoverGirl Flamed Out Shadow Pencil in Lime Green Flame and Crystal Flame, CoverGirl Flamed Out Eye Shadow Pot in Molten Black, CoverGirl Liquiline Blast in Black Fire and Revlon Lash Potion. 

1. Apply Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion from the bottom of the lid up to above the crease. (I used Eden.)

2. Apply CoverGirl's Flamed Out Eye Pencil in Crystal Flame from the inner corner of your eye across your lid, then use your pinky to blend out the color. (Otherwise you'll have some white patches that are darker than others.)

3. Apply CoverGirl's Flamed Out Lime Green Flame Eye Pencil in a V formation starting from the middle of your lid moving outward to your longest lashes. Make sure to get into your crease when making the V, then blend with your pinky finger.

4. Using a makeup brush, apply CoverGirl's Flamed Out Eye Shadow Pot in Molten Black in your crease and blending it upwards and out towards the outer part of your eye area.

5. Apply CoverGirl's Liquiline Blast Eye Liner in Black Fire along your lash line. For day, I chose not to blend it, but for a great transition to night, you can smudge it and even add in some flare of a cat eye.

6. Apply your favorite mascara. I had Revlon Lash Potion handy, so that's what was used here.

Whether or not you use a brow pen is up to you, I used TouchBack BrowMarker in Medium Brown (not shown.)

Voila! That's it. Super easy, quick and simple.

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram and G+. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Shannon on G+

*Disclosure

Five years ago my step-mom, Cindy Crino’s, life changed in an instant. One moment she was a successful science teacher in Hawaii, the next moment she was trapped in a school elevator that crashed three floors down, damaging her spine and spirit. Since that dreadful day in 2008 Cindy’s life path changed forever more as the accident caused permanent disability. No longer able to afford their home, they lost everything they had with the exception of their environmentally friendly cars. Five fighting years later in June 2013 it was those cars that helped them to make their way back to a much-needed family support system on the east coast. I remember visiting my dad and step-mom prior to her accident and, per usual, Cindy looked put-together and displayed a jolly spirit. However, when she arrived to my home this past June 2013 after spending five years in what she calls “the wilderness” of Utah (the first nearest spot they could afford to get to on the mainland after Hawaii) the toll of chronic pain, mild mobility impairment, and still needing to be a caregiver herself was apparent. My arms wrapped around her with a verbal reminder that she was now safe at home, as the tears streamed down our faces. This week a cleanly designed recycled bag of AVEDA's Heart Lands limited edition makeup line for AW13 arrived at my home. I opened the bag with excitement only to be moved by a clearly defined mission statement,

“Our mission at Aveda is to care for the world we live in, from the products we make to the ways in which we give back to society. At Aveda, we strive to set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility, not just in the world of beauty, but around the world.”

As an Americorps NCCC alumni and a nurse who believes strongly in treating body, mind, and spirit to achieve well-being and beauty, AVEDA's mission truly grasps the concept of beauty being more than just skin deep. As I scanned through their history, their open descriptions of natural ingredients used in their products, and their obvious vision for promoting holistic care and positive community impact I couldn’t help but be inspired to help transfer AVEDA’s bag of well-being to be that of Cindy’s. Products used: AVEDA Petal Essense Eyeshadow = Lid 991/Antique gold, Crease 989/hyacinth & 990/bronze patina, Outer and lower lid 986/dusk orchid, eye contour 992/juniper, lips lip liner 923/plum petals, lip glaze 921/honeytree My 20 minute makeover using AVEDA’s petal essence and nourish-mint makeup products from the Heart Lands collection on Cindy did wonders…note not only the obvious difference of her finished hair and makeup, but more importantly, the brightness of life that invigorates her smile and lights up her face. I loved turning her around to see her reaction! Cindy said, “Oh my word, oh my word! It is beautiful. I AM beautiful. I think I forgot how to care for myself over these years, but now I see it’s just a little bit of time to help me feel amazing!” It was also funny to me that Cindy noted (without reading my last post Quick Ways to Subside Caregiver Role Strain), “You know Courtney, one of the things that I noticed is that no matter what you have going on you take a little time to care for yourself and keep yourself looking nice. It makes me realize I can do the same too. I don’t have to let myself go anymore.” Were you inspired today? Please share, we LOVE to hear from you and pass along that inspiration to others! Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram and G+. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Courtney on G+.

One of the most under-protected parts of your body when it comes to sun exposure, is your lips. I'm definitely guilty of applying lip gloss regularly, most without SPF, which is like a big UV magnet. Anyone willing to admit the same?

Wishing for a spa getaway? To feel royally pampered in preparation for the summer months, therapists at the legendary Turnberry Isle Miami and its Forbes-rated Four Star Spa & Fitness Center suggest these at-home treatments using natural ingredients for those times when you can't make it into the spa: Mommy-to-Be Body Scrub – Helps with skin hydration and exfoliation. Ingredients: - ½ cup of oatmeal - 1 cup of yogurt Directions: Mix the oatmeal and yogurt together in a bowl. Use your hands to massage the scrub onto your skin in a circular motion. Coffee & Coconut Oil Booster – Activates circulation, rids cellulite and helps remove dead skin cells. Ingredients:  - ½ cup of coffee powder - 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (olive oil can be used instead) Directions: Mix the coffee powder and oil in a bowl. Use hands to massage mixture in a circular motion. Sunburn Solution – Great for sensitive skin. Ingredients: - 2 bananas - 3 tablespoons of honey - ¼ cup of cold milk - blender Directions: Mix the bananas, honey and milk in a blender. Apply to the mixture to skin and wait 10 minutes until rinsing. Apple Toner - Exfoliates and calms normal / combination skin. Ingredients: - 1 skinless apple - ½ cup of cold water - blender Directions: Mix the apple and water in the blender until it becomes very thin. Using cotton, apply to face. Have you tried any of these natural DIY spa treatments yourself? Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

As you may have read, I was diagnosed with Melanoma just a couple of years ago. Life after Melanoma requires a lot more preparation when spending time out in the sun and while I was once a sporadic sunscreen user, I am now a faithful daily user.

Something I’ve learned over the past few years of trying almost every sunscreen available … they are NOT all made the same! They come in a variety of forms, apply and protect differently, and most of all feel different.

I may be jumping the gun here, but I already started online shopping for our honeymoon in October and sunscreen was top of the list.  Being prepared for nice weather and vacation means my sunscreen and sun safety product arsenal gets restocked.

As I was doing some shopping for the honeymoon, I added Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen SPF 70+ ($15) to my shopping cart. I’ve heard a lot of good things about Sun Bum and a friend of mine swears that it’s the only sunscreen she’s ever used that doesn’t feel like a thick film coating her body. I’ve been dying to try it! 

When it comes to SPF, I always reach for the higher numbers. No matter what level SPF you choose, it's important to keep in mind that you still need to reapply regularly.

The one thing that bothers me about reapplying sunscreen is that by the end of the day, I typically feel like I am coated in guck. I'm thrilled to report that using Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunsreen SPF 70+ left behind no guck, no coating, and no sticky film. AMEN!

This can is a winner and at $15, you're getting a superior product that won't break the bank. I’ve been using it daily and my first impression was a lasting one … I literally said aloud “Ahhhh, it’s light!” I absolutely LOVE how light this formula is. It’s not sticky or filmy, and it applies clear. That is one of my favorite things about it.

It applies clear and it absorbs into your skin with one stroke of your hand. Unlike many other sunscreens, it doesn’t spray on as white streaks that need to be rubbed in. Not only is that a time saver, but it looks and feels better too.

Have you ever used a sunscreen that applied white and left your skin looking milky and painted on? Those just aren't the kind of sunscreens you can wear day to day. Sun Bum is the kind of sunscreen you can (and I have been) literally wear daily, anywhere, and you don’t even realize you have it on.

With other sunscreens, I've been hesitant to wear nice clothing while wearing it because I didn’t want to ruin my clothes, this ultra waterproof and sweat proof light formula is a dream for everyday use.

It’s also a great pick if you’re active outdoors in the summer or vacationing. This is an everyday sunscreen you an apply over your regular moisturizer and not develop a thick film. It applies perfectly clear, feels light, and the scent is gentle and pleasant…kind of vacation-y.

And if my friendly nod of approval and adoration isn’t enough …  here’s a super important seal of approval. Sun Bum Sunscreen is tested, approved and recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation, you can be assured you’re getting the best in skincare.

So far, I only got my hands on Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen, (which is available in SPF 15+, 30+, 50+, and 70+) but Sun Bum products are available in a variety of forms.

I already have my eyes on the Sun Bum Face Stick. Considering how effortless and light the spray sunscreen is, I can only imagine how perfect the face stick is going to be!

Sun Bum products are:

• Paraben Free
• Oil Free
• Hypoallergenic
• Won’t Clog Pores
• Anti Aging
• Photostable

If you’re looking for a day to day sunscreen that easy and light, I highly recommend giving Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen a try. If you’re new to spray sunscreen – hold the can 4-6 inches away and spray! Sun Bum’s Continuous Spray Sunscreen mists on and rubs in with one swipe. It is THAT light.

Continuous spray means it’ll keep coming until you’re done spraying! This can sprays with ease and allows you to use all the sunscreen you want with one long spray!  

Speaking of using all of the sunscreen you want, did you know the average person only uses 1/4th of the amount of sunscreen they need/should? Apply liberally friends! Practice safe sun!

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

*Disclosure

When Spry Living Magazine asked me if myself and two A Girl's Gotta Spa! bloggers would be interested in making over our moms, we didn't hesitate to say yes. Myself, Ashley and Hillary all participated in Spry Living's Take Year's Off Your Looks Instantly (web and print) story and Making Over Mom with tips. Each of our moms had challenges that prevented them from updating their look. My mom had hair loss/thinning hair, sagging skin, etc. all related to bariatric surgery she had two years ago. Ashley's mom has nerve damage and a disability when it comes to the use of her arm. Hillary's mom was nervous since losing all of her hair so long ago (but it has since grown back.) From skin care to hair care to makeup, here's the breakdown of the products used to transformed our moms. Paula (my mom): Thank you to Maureen Barnes, Katie Dietrich and George Serrano-Velez at Breathe Salon and Day Spa Hair: L'Oreal Professional Texture Expert Densite Thickening Primer Fine Hair Primer: Hard Candy Sheer Envy and on eyes Cover FX Anti-Age Smoothing Eye Primer Anti-aging products: Murad Sheer Lustre Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 15, then Freeze 24-7 Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment, Anti-Aging Eye Serum, and ArcticLift Firming Neck Cream. Brows: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Ombre Camel eye shadow duo Foundation: a mix of 810 and 825 of CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation Concealer: Ben Nye Powder: itcosmetics Anti-Aging Radiance Pressed Illuminating Powder Blush: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Universal Blush Eye Shadow: MAC Paint Pot Chilled on Ice, Smashbox Photo Op Enhancing Eye Palette in Softbox and Mirabella Cosmetics Mascara: L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara Lips: MAC Boldly Bare lip pencil and mark Coral Fixation Clothes: JCPenney Read my mom's story: A New Look For A New Body Beth (Ashley's mom): Thank you to Maureen Barnes and David Van Guilder at Breathe Salon and Day Spa. Ashley did her mom's makeup for this makeover! Primer: Hard Candy Sheer Envy and on eyes Cover FX Anti-Age Smoothing Eye Primer Anti-aging products: Freeze 24-7 Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment, Anti-Aging Eye Serum, and ArcticLift Firming Neck Cream. Brows: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Ombre Camel eye shadow duo Foundation: 810 CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation mixed with MAC N30 Concealer: Ben Nye Powder: itcosmetics Anti-Aging Radiance Pressed Illuminating Powder Blush: MAC Bite of an Apple Eye Shadow: MAC Paint Pot Chilled on Ice, Smashbox Photo Op Enhancing Eye Palettes Smokebox and Softbox Mascara: Maybelline Mega Plush Eyeliner: Maybelline Line Express in Soft Black Highlighter: CoverGirl Champagne eye shadow Bronzer: Sephora Aruba Lips: MAC Boldly Bare lip pencil and Bare Escentuals Buxom in Sugar Clothes and accessories: JCPenney Read Beth's story: Pain-Free Beauty Sue (Hillary's Mom): Hair Color:  L'Oreal Feria Soft Black Hair Treatments & Styling: Joico K-Pak, Moroccan Oil, Rusk w8less plus Hairspray Face: Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Lips: L'Oreal Rouge Absolut Lipstick in Creme de Maron Nails: Julep Freedom Top coat, China Glaze Keep Calm and Paint On mint Green Clothes: Willi Smith at TJMaxx Read Sue's story: From Comfy to Chic Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! *affiliate links