Summer at the Lakehouse: Introducing Bath & Body Works' Lakeside Summer Candle Collection {Giveaway}

When you think of summer, what usually comes to mind?
For me, it's beautiful memories at the Lakehouse... the scent of evening bonfires and smores, the sounds of the birds, nature and rippling water, paddle-boating in complete serenity, fishing by the deck, the feeling of warm sand on my bare toes with a cold glass of freshly made lemonade in my hand.
There's nothing quite like summer days spent by the lake with loved ones.

Bath & Body Works' introduces their latest Lakeside Summer Candle Collection featuring scents that will have you living and breathing summer all year long, wherever you may be.
Transporting you back to those memorable summer moments with six new distinctive fragrances:

NEW LAKESIDE: An invigorating blend of fresh water, drift wood and lemon zest, this fragrance is refreshing like the water after a cannon ball.

NEW WATERMELON LEMONADE: Enjoy the coolest sip of summer with this mixture of sparkling watermelon, candied lemons, and sugared musk.

NEW BOATHOUSE ROW: Deep, blue water, green sage, and cedar wood, this fragrance is the essence a cool retreat in the shade.

NEW STRAWBERRY PICNIC: A slice of summer time sweetness, this fragrance is a blend of red, ripe strawberries, wild raspberries and sweet buttercream frosting.

NEW SUMMERTIME S’MORES: This blend of roasted marshmallow, crackling campfire and rich, creamy vanilla is a gooey & guilt free treat.

MAHOGANY TEAKWOOD: Like the warmth of a boat’s deck in the sun, bask in the luxurious scents of fine woods like mahogany, cedarwood and oak.

The Retail Value for each candle is: 14.5oz, $22.50; 4oz, $12.50: 1.3 oz. $4.50 (in select fragrances)
What I love about Bath & Body Works is that they are always having seriously awesome deals like 50% off or buy one, get one free, etc. at their retail locations.

This coming Monday is Canada Day which means a much-deserved long weekend ready to fill with new summer memories!

Courtesy of my friends at Bath & Body Works Canada, one of my readers gets a chance to win this very patriotic and sweet-smelling Canada Day Prize Pack.

To Enter:
1) Leave a comment telling me which Bath & Body Works' Lakeside Summer Candle you love most (This is mandatory)
2) Additional entries via rafflecopter

Open to Canadian Residents only.
Contest ends July 5th, 2013.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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The Verdict Is In: Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen Reviews

I asked mothers, just like you and I,  to try out the new Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen and let me know their honest thoughts.
Sun exposure can be very dangerous for our children (and of course ourselves) without proper use of Sun Protection. But little ones tend to have much more sensitive skin and Banana Boat created a new product with that in mind.

You can read more about the new Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen here.

Here is what the Reviewers had to say:

Thanks for the opportunity to try out the Banana Boat Natural Reflect sunscreen.

I love that the sunscreen is SPF 50 and has both UVA and UVB protection. The scent is very mild. The lotion itself feels thick but is easy to apply and rub into the skin. I also like that the Natural Reflect lotion is water resistant, something that is on the top of my list when shopping for sunscreen for my active kids!
- L.R.

I was so excited to be chosen for this opportunity, as I was looking into this product for purchase.  I hate purchasing something only to find out-I don't like it.  After checking out EWG, -the reviews were strong. I was eager to try.

The item does not have an overwhelming smell.  My LO is very sensitive to that.  I liked that it was easy to put on and more thick than other brands we have used in the past that tend to get all over the place.  This one you are able to see where you have already applied before rubbing in more thoroughly. It felt in a way like I was moisturizing her in addition to protecting her skin from the sun.   I was happy with the result and cannot wait to continue to use it (WONDERLAND TOMORROW!)  I plan on picking up the baby one this week.  In sum, I am happy that a larger company has made an attempt into producing a more easily accessible natural product that is affordable to boot.  I would definitely recommend.
- P.S. 

Here are my thoughts on the Banana Boat Natural Reflect Kids Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50.
Since we camp a great deal and don't want to attract bugs I am happy that there is no noticeable scent to it.

I love that it is sting free and was able to test that this morning when I put it on my daughter before leaving for school, since that new skin around scrapes is very susceptible to burning.

My daughter is only 6 and because of the thick consistency of the sunscreen she is unable to rub it in adequately making that a bit of a problem for us especially since she likes to be independent.
I like that it takes  fair bit of water and scrubbing to get the sunscreen off your hands after applying.
My rating (mainly because of the thickness of it) is 4 out of 5. 
- L

I received my sample bottle yesterday which luckily started out to be a nice sunny day and therefore a good day to test the sunscreen.

When I first applied it there was a white film on the skin that made me wonder if my grandchildren were going to look like little mimes or ghosts. After about 10 minutes the white hue disappeared and seemed to just blend into the skin and just left it looking moisturized.  After the 15 to 30 minutes recommended for applying before going outside there was no evidence of it on the skin.  It felt almost silky on the skin and I was pleased to see that it did not leave a rash or redness to delicate skin.  There was virtually no scent to it which is an added bonus.  I would say that it lives up to it's claim of being sting-free too.  Unfortunately the rain did not stay away long enough to need to reapply it after 2 hours.  It did give good sun protection during the time we were out.  I would recommend it to anyone looking for a gentle, natural, and non greasy sunscreen.  Even though it is labeled for kids I also used it and found it to pleasant to wear.

Thank you far allowing me to review this sunscreen.
- D.G.

I was really excited to try the new Banana Boat Natural Reflect Kids Sunscreen SPF 50, because I was looking for a less chemical based product to protect my child from the sun. It claims to be "as mild as water," and it seems to be as we experienced no hives or rashes from using this product.  With an active toddler, it can be difficult to get them to stay still for sunscreen application. Luckily, the day we tested this product little one was cooperative.  I found that it took awhile to massage into the skin, this would be frustrating if you have a child whom is too busy at play or is of a squirmy nature.  Once we had the product rubbed in, we waited for the time allotment before we went outside, we paused and headed to the sink to test the water resistance as we had no intention of water play that day.  Beads of water slid off the arms like it was nothing, a quick shake of the arms and we were off.  The product proved to be effective and left my little ones skin feeling soft. I really like that it was non-greasy. Pros: does what it says it's going to do Cons: You really need to massage the product in.
- S.T.
 
I was really excited to be chosen to try out the new Banana Boat Natural Reflect for Kids. We've been using Banana Boat for years and years, and its a name I trust.  I put the sunscreen to the test on 3 of my children (ages 3, 4 and 5), and myself. My very first impression: there is no smell. This is a huge plus factor for me as I am allergic to fragrances, and a couple of my children have eczema so I like to try to watch what I put on their skin. Second impression: it works! We had zero reaction to the sunscreen, AND we didn't get a sunburn either! Worked just as well on my 3 year old as it did on myself. I have found our new sunscreen. I love it. A sunscreen that is not scented and works! I'm sold!!
- A.A.

I recently was lucky enough to test out the Banana Boat natural reflect kids sunscreen because
Banana boat is a brand we know and trust.
 The first thing I noticed was that there was no scent. It was very easy to apply and absorb very quickly.
Leaving no oily residue behind. I loved this product and will be using and recommending it.
- A.M.

What I like about Banana Boat Natural Reflect is the thickness of it; I feel you can "see" the coverage and protection. It is a thicker paste compared to other sunscreens but easily blends in.

I like that the formula is more natural and is Paraben and PABA-free. This is important for me and my son's skin.
I rate it:  9/10.

We will definitely be applying this sunscreen in the summer and on holidays to the beach.
- D.B.

I have a child that absolutely hates having anything put on her skin (bathtimes are a struggle just putting on lotion).
I can't sacrifice the importance of proper skincare especially when it comes to my child and their exposure to sun.
The sunscreen sprays I have used in the past have proven well as they are quick BUT problem with them is they do not get all the spots on her body and especially her face. Spraying a child's face is not an easy task!
This sunscreen was actually quick to absorb which was a big plus for me; at first I thought it wouldn't be as it was a thicker consistency.
I was able to get all the spots on my childs face and there was no harsh or annoying smells.
Definitely going to continue using this summer!
Thanks for the great opportunity to sample and review!
- L.Y.

Background info up until now I have been using the banana boat spray on my oldest reason was its supper quick to get on him and little mess.  I would spray it then rub it in to make sure i didn't miss any spots. When it came to his face i would spray it on my hands then rub it in. This worked well for us. So when I saw that these new one was a old school lotion I have to be honest my heart sunk a little. I tried this once before and it was a disaster! But in the effort of doing a review I thought I would give it a try again.

The first few times it took a bit to convince him to stay in one spot long enough to put it on as he liked the fun of the spray as well as the speed if it. The lotion took more work/time to rub in. I found that at first I didn't like this part of it but I quickly realized it was better as I was sure I covered all the spots. Something I always feared with the other one. Also he was WAY more willing to let me put it on his face and no longer fought me on it. I asked him my and he says "it smells better and not ouchy" which is a big win!

I have noticed no tan on my son while using this product which is a great thing. I also love that he doesn't look greasy.

All and all I like the product and feel good that its more natural the others I have used in the past.
-D.K.

OVERALL SCORE: 9/10
Pros: No Harsh Scents, All-Natural (for sensitive skin), Quick to Absorb, Water-Resistant
Cons: Takes Time to apply (Due to thickness - must be rubbed in very well)

It was a winner for all the Reviewers!
Thank you to all for taking the time to sample and provide your honest opinions.

Each Review was entered to win a $50 Visa Gift Card.
The winner selected via Random.org is: L.Y!
Congratulations!

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Spring-Ready Skin with Moroccanoil Body's Latest Skincare Indulgence

 

It's May 28th and although it's rainy and quite cool today let's not forget it's Spring and I'm anticipating lots of sunshine and warmer shorts weather in the near future.

You may have already heard of Moroccanoil and it's amazing benefits for your locks but did you know they now have a new Moroccanoil Body Line with seriously decadent body products?
I am a big fan of their hair products and love what it does for my hair so I was really hoping that this body line would not disappoint.

I received their new Body Soufflé {MRSP: $52 CAN/190ml} and Body Buff {MRSP: $42 CAN / 180ml} to try out for myself and was instantly attracted to the presentation.
The containers they come in are simple yet screams indulgence. And there is a lot of product in each container! The great thing is that you do not have to use so much at every use.

I lit a few candles, got the bubble bath going, played some soothing jazz tunes and poured myself a glass of red wine. *Dream bubble pop*
I don't have much time on a typical day to pamper myself like that but that's why these products are so clever. You don't need that much time to feel like you did pamper yourself.


Made with natural orange peel exfoliator, the Body Buff is gentle enough for daily use to polish away dead skin cells and instantly transform your skin. The added benefits of argan oil blended with Vitamin E and nourishing avocado, grape seed, safflower, sesame and sweet almond oils, rejuvenate your skin with intense moisture.

Massage in a circular motion to either dry or damp skin until absorbed. Concentrate on areas prone to rough or dry patches. Then, buff and rinse off in the shower. 

At my most recent spa visit, I had a lovely salt scrub before my massage and my skin never felt better.
It wasn't until I used this product that I felt a similar feeling.

If you plan to use a body bronzer to add some colour to your skin this summer, a good body exfoliator is an absolute must. I highly recommend this product for that.

A whipped hybrid between a body milk and butter, the Moroccanoil Body Soufflé instantly drenches and penetrates skin with intense hydration leaving behind renewed softness, smoothness and resilience. The indulgent formula is rich with reparative argan oil, shea butter and aloe vera that help to stimulate skin’s cellular renewal, and work to improve skin’s natural barrier functions, health and vitality.
Suitable for all skin types, Body Soufflé is all that is needed to wrap skin in a daily, decadent moisture boost. Further stimulating the senses is the signature scent of Moroccanoil, a delightful aromatic blend of the hero ingredients.

To achieve optimum benefits and results, apply Body Soufflé daily after cleansing to lock in moisture and receive immediate skin replenishment.

I don't like strong scents on my skin. Not just because I am constantly around my little ones but also because I find it tends to irritate my nose. Body creams should not be too strong (that's why perfume is for!). They should aim at smoothing and quenching your skin first and if you prefer the scent, a nice subtle fragrance should do the trick.
This is what I loved about this cream. I smell the shea butter and argan oil yet it's not overwhelming, it's perfect!
It also settles very well into the skin. Not watery, not too thick, just the right texture.
It will definitely work well with all skin types.

Moroccanoil body products are available at luxury spas, fine salons nationwide and at Ben and Tournesol in Montreal.
Discover signature services and products through prestige spa partners, including Quartz Crystal Spa (Trump Hotel Toronto), The Spa at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Spa Vida (Sheraton Wall Center Vancouver), Victoria Park Spa (Montreal) and The Spa at the Four Seasons Toronto.

More information
To explore the full line of Moroccanoil products, visit www.moroccanoil.com.
You can also visit them online at their various social media sites:
Twitter & Instagram: @Moroccanoil
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Moroccanoil
YouTube: www.youtube.com/moroccanoil

For a daily spa-like experience without the cost, try out Moroccanoil's newest Body Line and indulge!

****
Disclosure: I received sample products for this review, however all opinions expressed are my very own.

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Bring on the Sunshine with Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen {Sampling Opportunity}

My daughter (on the right) & her BFF enjoying the sunshine wearing  Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen !

Spring has finally sprung and Mr. Sun has decided to grace us with his warming presence.

My daughter is just as excited as I am of course because that means lots of outdoor play and discovery. What's even more fun is that we now have a new little addition to join us for our many Spring & Summer activities outside.

As a mother, the one thing that I get very concerned about once the sun starts radiating stronger and stronger each day within the next few weeks is my children's skin. My daughter already has very sensitive skin and now I also have to worry about the delicate skin of my baby boy.

I've tried quite a few different sunscreens for my daughters skin and most often she would react to it, from mild to strong.

I've had success with Banana Boat® products in the past and now I'm excited to try their latest product, Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen.

Whether you’re off for a day at the beach or an in-city adventure with the kids, the new Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen lotion provides the clinically proven protection mom loves, but is gentle enough for the most delicate – and sometimes finicky – skin. 

The Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen lotion provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, yet is Paraben, PABA and Oxybenzone-free, so parents can feel comfortable applying it on their kids. The pediatrician-tested sunscreen, made from 100% naturally sourced sunscreen ingredients, is also water resistant allowing for a tear- and sting-free sunscreen experience. 

The Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen is currently available at grocery, drug and mass retail outlets across Canada for approximately $11.99.

So worries no more! We are super excited to welcome the warmer months and plenty of fun outdoors thanks to Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids sunscreen lotion!

Memory Lane: Summer fun at the Cottage - Ava at 18 months.

I'm looking for 25 of my readers that would like to receive a full sample of a Banana Boat® Natural Reflect™ Kids Sunscreen to try and then share their review with me for a chance to win a $50 Visa gift card. 
If you're interested in participating and receiving a free sample + a chance to win a $50 Visa Gift Card, simply enter via quick rafflecopter entry.
The first 25 to reply will be chosen! 

*Please note if you have applied & were chosen for this review opportunity with another Blog, I ask that you be courteous and allow for others to have a chance to participate.
Thank you! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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New Nicole by OPI 2013 Collection & #Giveaway

My fellow Nail Polish Aficionado's... say HELLO to Spring/Summer 2013 from Nicole by OPI!

Since the days of cabbage patch dolls and New Kids on the Block to now, I've always had a love for nail polish.
Believe it when I tell you... I know my polishes.
See exhibit A below of just a few in my current collection.

Exhibit A

So you can imagine my excitement when I received the press release and samples of the newest Nicole by OPI 2013 Collection which includes collections from Selena Gomez and one of my absolute favourite shows ever, Modern Family.

I love Nicole by OPI because they contain no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde which is so important to me as a mom to very little ones including a baby.
Their formulas are long-lasting, fast-drying, and true salon-quality.

Those crazy dishes and hand-washed laundry got nothin' on my newly manicured Nicole by OPI nails!

I know because I tried!

I used Back in my Gloria Days... from the Modern Family Collection and added a little bit of Selena Gomez's Confetti Fun on my ring fingers.

Back in my Gloria Days... may just be one of my favourites!
Back in my Gloria Days is a lighter formula so to achieve this look I had to use 2 coats.
Only one coat was used with Confetti Fun.

The New 2013 shades feature two vibrant crème shades of bright pink and rich red and two shimmering hues of deep plum and glossy black.

Plum to Your Senses!
You KNOW this deep, dark plum is the perfect choice.

Please Red-cycle
Do the right thing and wear this apple red over and over.

Totally in the Dark
This shimmery black is completely unexpected.

Still Into Pink
Our love for hot pink will never grow cold.

SELENA GOMEZ COLLECTION

“Selena is an ideal partner for Nicole by OPI. Millions of fans love her for the
same reasons we do; she’s smart, talented, funny – and has an incredible sense of
style,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Nicole by OPI Executive VP & Artistic
Director. “She has that classic ‘girl-next-door’ appeal, but she’s also edgy and fun –
just like the Nicole consumer.

Loving all the sparkle and pinks in the Selena Gomez Collection.
But, my favourite (not to be bias because I happen to LOVE the show), just happens to be the Modern Family Collection.

MODERN FAMILY COLLECTION

“The Nicole consumer embraces the same spirit of diversity and individuality
that’s apparent on the show,” explains Weiss-Fischmann. “The colors inspired by
Modern Family offer a perfect way to express that spirit!” - Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Nicole by OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.

 
The Modern Family Collection includes:

Am I Making Myself Claire?
Make no mistake...I’m liking this lilac.

I Do De-Claire!
Let me just say how frosty cool this soft rose is!

She’s Lily Something
Pink, sparkly stars...so Daddies’ Little Girl-y!

A Like-Haley Story...
Typical teenagers (and their moms!) will love this not-so-typical fuchsia.

My Jay or the Highway!
This trendy taupe is inflexibly cool. Period.

Stand by Your Manny
Be loyal to this periwinkle blue.

Alex by the Books
Look smart in this seafoam green.

Haley Good Lookin’...
She’s cookin’ up plans for this pink super-glitter.
Basking in Gloria
This red-violet is the color of passion.

 Luke of the Draw
Chances are you’ll love this gunmetal glitter.

A Phil’s Paradise
No fooling...this pewter is the real deal.

Candid Cameron
Call this teal just like you see it...gorgeous!

Back in My Gloria Days...
This voluptuous violet has still got it goin’ on!

What’s the Mitch-uation?
This cobalt blue demands an update.

I love them all! See any you like?

The polishes retail for $10.99 each and are available for a limited time at Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart Canada, Jean Coutu, Loblaws, London Drug.

I'm giving one of my readers a chance to win the entire Modern Family Collection {ARV $154}!
Simply enter via rafflecopter below for your chance to win!
**Open to Canadians only**
Ends  2/10.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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CAC's Favourite Spring/Summer 2013 Trends

Pretty Floral Prints, vintage 20's-inspired bouffants and Poppy Reds; this year is looking bright (literally!)

I am always keeping my eyes open for what's on trend although I admit that I am not really a fashion risk-taker and will stick to what's comfortable and suits me.
I think that's the way it should be though.
Fashion is meant to bring your best out and be an expression of who you are not what you see others wearing.
What may look great on another person may not look so amazing on you.

What I always like to do when experimenting with new colours is put it close to my face at a mirror in a well-lit room, usually when I notice a glow oozing from my face, there's a match!
Let me clarify: colours that complement your natural tone should brighten the appearance of your skin and look good with your hair and eyes.
Colours which aren't so great will make you appear pale and washed-out and accentuate any dark shadows or blemishes.
You'll know when once you look in that mirror.

Deciding on the colours that are best for you is very simple. It just depends on your own colouring, which includes your eye and hair colour and skin tone.

In order to tell your skin tone you need to look at it under natural light, checking to see whether there is a hint of golden or rosiness. A hint of apricot or golden undertones means you're "warm" toned, being slightly pink or rosy makes you "cool" toned.

Cool-toned people look best in blue-based colours; warm-toned people will look best in yellow-based colours.

POINTERS:

Warm tones
Warm tones suit natural earth colours such as browns, bronzes and sage greens.
For pretty feminine summer shades try peach and apricot.
If you prefer reds, then try brick red, dark tomato or a burnt orange hue.
Earth greens like olive or jade enhance warm skin tones.
Clean ivory or oyster whites also enhance the warm skin tone type.
For your professional wardrobe, look for clothes in taupe or bright navy. Try brown and gold accessories for maximum impact.

Cool tones
Pure white is a great match for cool skin tones.
Bold raspberries, deep greens, royal blue, plum and pure black are also winners.
Cool-toned people can wear bright ruby red to great effect.
Cool skin tones can also be enhanced by soft pastel blues and pinks.

Pay attention to what you are wearing when friends compliment you on your outfit — it's likely that this colour is a good match for you.

Okay so back to my favourite trends for Spring and Summer 2013!
 
I've had long hair for most of my life (short hair just does not suit my round face!)
I love that the long & sleek hair is back on the trend watch this season. Also, we're seeing the mid-part and deep side-part taking over! Love it!

Great Gatsby! How beautiful are these 20's inspired looks?

My trend-radar is sounding off loudly and I'm not complaining -- love this look!

Coincidence that the much-anticipated (well for me that is!) The Great Gatsby movie is debuting this year? Perhaps.

On top of the hair, look out for Great Gatsby inspired hair pieces too!
 

Oh, and it's not just on trend for the ladies.  Men, we're looking at you! Check out Leonardo DiCaprio's coif -- I'm so not complaining about this one either. *wink, wink*

Now onto the makeup.
Loving these looks for the face this year.

Graphic Liner.
Graphic eyeliner, especially in the vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired hues of turquoise, jade and aqua, goes from ramp to real with ease.

Cherry Red Lips with Neutral Eyes.
I've always been rocking this look -- love it! 

Fresh-faced with Glowing Skin.
Whatever other makeup you choose, the focus this year is on supple, hydrated and healthy skin that radiates with a beautiful mother-of-pearl glow. Extra-vigilant skincare is key. May I introduce you to Mèreadesso?  But till the results kick in, try a light-reflecting primer, liquid foundation applied with a brush and a highlighter.

Now going back to the clothing, check out what I think is "haute" this coming season!
I absolutely adore the abstract and rich florals, chevron patterns, stripes and poppy red! YES!
Pretty, feminine and light.

Mango

And for the home...

 

I'm smitten by all this gorgeousness and excited for the year ahead! 

Have you got  favourite trend for this year?

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Save Lives this Summer with La Roche-Posay

"Then followed that beautiful season...Summer....
Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light; and the landscape
lay as if new created in all the freshness of childhood."
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

When I think of summer, I think of fun by the pool, running through the sprinklers with fruity cool Popsicles, outdoor barbecues & patio entertaining, warm sand between my toes at the beach, picnics at the park, kites filling the sky, the scent of freshly cut grass and suntan lotion, the bustling farmers markets on a weekend morning and the sounds of the ice cream man echoing through the neighborhood streets.

Beautiful & pure magic, isn't it?

As we bask underneath the summer sun, little do we know the hidden dangers and what's really going on with our skin and bodies.

Did you know that 78,000 Canadians will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year? 

5,500 of those cases will be skin cancer’s deadliest form, Melanoma.  

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a malignant tumor of melanocytes. Melanocytes are cells that produce the dark pigment, melanin, which is responsible for the color of skin. They predominantly occur in skin, but are also found in other parts of the body, including the bowel and the eye. 

Melanoma is less common than other skin cancers. However, it is much more dangerous if it is not found early. It causes the majority (75%) of deaths related to skin cancer. Worldwide, doctors diagnose about 160,000 new cases of melanoma yearly. It is more common in women than in men. In women, the most common site is the legs and melanomas in men are most common on the back. 

La Roche-Posay, the #1 Dermatologist recommended skin care brand, needs your help to raise sun protection awareness with their Save Lives! program.
Follow them on Facebook  to receive sun tips every week and keep up-to-date with interesting and informative content and learn more about this very important Save Lives! program and help save lives of those you care about!

On top of learning more about the Save Lives! program,  you can also share your own advice or vote for your favourite submission in the advice gallery.

You can vote for as many stories as you want every day until July 15th! The most voted for stories will have a chance to win the grand prizes, so feel free to encourage friends and family to participate and vote! 

Remember, 90% of skin cancers can be cured if detected early enough and Canadians can visit MySkinCheck.ca for tools and resources needed to check themselves for early signs of skin cancer.  Feel free to read on for the hard facts of sun protection. 

The FACTS:

• Your skin is damaged after 15 minutes of unprotected exposure to the sun
• You  need to use a golf ball-sized amount of sunscreen to adequately protect yourself from head to toe 
• 43% of individuals only apply sunscreen when the sun is very intense (guilty)
• 36% of Canadians think having a tan is important (especially our youth -- spread the word!)
• Melanoma represents 1/3 of all new cancers – one of the fastest growing cancers worldwide 
• In North America, one person dies from melanoma every hour
• 1 in 7 Canadians will develop skin cancer in their lifetime (this is scary to think about!)
• 7 in 10 women don’t know how to properly apply sunscreen lotion
• 4 in 10 individuals don’t use sunscreen because of texture (my husband would be one of the 4...)

Whoa to those facts! 

I've been guilty on a few of those in my years which is why spreading the word about the Save Lives! program is so beneficial, especially to our youth and teens that think having a super-awesome tan and being as dark as possible equates to a much more attractive exterior.  May I remind you folks of the "tanning mom", Patricia Krentcil? Enough said.

I've always been big on sunscreen, even when it comes to my moisturizers and in the event I must wear it, foundation (even blushes, bronzers and concealers have sunscreen too!).

The generation of women in my mom's side of the family tend to be more prone to skin moles and freckles.  Since I was a very little girl, I still remember my mom lathering sunscreen all over me and my siblings skin before we out to play outdoors.

Now that I'm a mom, I do the same for my daughter and continuously do it for myself (and constantly reminding my husband too as well!)

My Top 10 Summer Skincare Tips

1. Stay hydrated. Your body tends to lose a lot of moisture in the summer, so it’s important to regularly replenish the H2O. Drink a lot of water and liquids and your skin will stay soft and moisturized as well.

2. Sun protection. If you can, try and stay indoors between 11am and 3pm. That’s when the sun’s rays are the strongest and can have an adverse effect on your skin. Also, don’t forget to apply that all-important sunscreen 30 minutes before you step out. If you’ve been out in the sun for a few hours, touch it up again so you’re well protected.

3. Use a toner. It’s important to keep your pores closed and skin cool by using a toner. Look for a brand that suits you or try rose water. Its natural cooling properties make it an excellent toner for the hot season.
Check out La Roche-Posay's great line of skincare products here.

4. Go for a water-based moisturizer. Don’t make the mistake of skipping the moisturizing routine altogether as its essential for your skin to remain hydrated. However, if you find your regular moisturizer too oily, go for a water-based one.

5. Ditch those aerated drinks. Most people have the tendency to reach out for an ice cold aerated drink to quench their thirst on a really hot day. However, it’s important to remember that these drinks are full of sugar that is not good for your skin or your figure. Instead drink some water, fresh lime, fresh fruit juices or coconut water to stay hydrated. It’s also best to minimize the intake of diuretics like alcohol and caffeine as they reduce the water from your system.

6. Cleanse your face twice a day. At least! This is important to do even if you’ve been home all day and feel like your skin is clean. Cleansing and moisturizing your skin before sleeping is an absolute must.

7. Exfoliate. More than the rest of the year, it’s really important to exfoliate your skin in the summer to remove dead skin and improve blood circulation to the face. Choose from any of the cosmetic scrubs available in the market or make one at home. Try this simple one using 4 to 5 tbsps of gram flour, a pinch of turmeric, 5 – 6 drops of rose water and milk or yogurt. Mix it into a paste and use it to exfoliate your face. Follow it up with a face mask and moisturizer.

8. Don’t like your tan? Gram flour can also be used as a face mask to get rid of an uneven tan. Mix it with yogurt and a few drops of lemon and apply and leave it on your face till it’s dry. The citrus properties of the lemon are very effective in removing the tan.

9. Get that warm, summer glow. Papaya is full of natural goodness and you can even use it as a homemade pack. Just mash 2 tbsp of papaya with a tsp of honey and 1 egg white. Leave the mixture on your face for about 15 minutes and enjoy the glow you get afterwards.

10. Cool your skin. Blending half a cucumber and 1 tbsp of yogurt in the mixer can make another simple and effective homemade face pack. Apply this to your face for 15 minutes and feel completely pampered.

Bonus tip: Eat healthy, exercise and sleep well! The holy trinity of good health and glowing skin holds true for the whole year. So along with all the tips above, don’t forget to eat a balanced diet, work out for at least 45 minutes everyday and get 7 to 8 hours of sleep. 

Do you have any good summer (or even all year-round) skincare tips you'd like to share?



****Disclosure: I’m participating in the La Roche-Posay Brand Ambassador program via PTPA Media Inc. As a part of my participation in the campaign compensation has been received. All opinions expressed are those of my own.

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Orange You Glad I Didn't Say Orange?

I've never been afraid of colour. 

In fact, if you were to look into my closet, it would be as if you stepped into a rainbow wonderland.

That was until I became a mom, gained those extra pounds and *sigh* became acquainted with a very dear friend, Mr. Black. (not to be mistaken with Mr. Grey... that's a whole different story).

It wasn't until I realized that I can still rock flattering colour in my wardrobe without feeling like a walking Kool-aid mascot.

What a better time to incorporate some luminosity into your life than Spring & Summer?
Of course during the colder months, sparks of bright hues always brings a pleasant surprise -- leave that with the accessories (a girl's best friend).

Two of the colours that I am absolutely enchanted by are Tangerine and Coral.
Both in the same colour family and both very zesty and captivating hues that look striking on all women of all shades and colours, shapes and sizes.

A great way to incorporate bright hues such as these into your wardrobe if your a little colour-shy is to start with accessories -- chunky bracelets, necklaces, earrings, sandals.
And/or some splash of colour with nail polish, blush or lipstick (if you're not a lipstick girl, perhaps even some lip gloss).
Start slow.

Once you've decided you're brave enough to up your colourful wardrobe this summer with larger pieces, I'd say to go with tops first.
Add that colour to your life and most importantly -- have fun with it!

Cheers to a bright summer! 

What's your favourite Spring/Summer 2012 trend?

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{Thirsty Thursdays} Pina Colada Smoothie

Close your eyes and picture this: You're lying on warm white sand, nobody else around but you (and perhaps your other half), the sound of the clear blue waters as they glide from side to side crashing along the shore, the feel of the sun on your skin, the smell of the fresh air, water, sand and palm trees...

What's missing?

How about a refreshing, cool beverage?!

Today as I sit here on my patio indulging in my favourite hot-weather drink, Coconut Water, I couldn't help but let my mind slip away and imagine myself somewhere tropical like Hawaii.

When I taste coconut, I always think of the beautiful beaches and scenery of the Hawaiian Islands.

Here is an easy recipe for a virgin Pina Colada Smoothie I found on Paula Deen that you can enjoy alone or with your family & friends.  It's sure to be a hit!

Pina Colada Smoothie

Ingredients 

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks 
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk 
• 1 banana 
• 1/4 cup ice cubes 
• 2 teaspoons honey, optional 
• pineapple wedges, for garnish

Directions

In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, coconut milk, banana, ice and, if desired, honey. 

Puree until smooth. Pour into 2 large glasses. Garnish each serving with a pineapple wedge.

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