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! 

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Beauty in a Bottle: Mèreadesso Review & Giveaway

It happened. I was so caught up in the every day duties of my life that I completely forgot that I was out of cleanser and moisturizer.  There I was staring blankly at my face in the bathroom mirror thinking whether or not I should just use my husband's skincare products.

Let's make ourselves clear here. The secret to great skin aside from lots of water, a healthy diet and genes is to use great skincare products every day (twice a day) that are suitable for your skin. 

And the ones that our handsome male counterparts usually use are NOT made for us, ladies. Stop using it, please.

Here's my daily skincare regimen: 

AM: Cleanse, Moisturize (my moisturizer usually includes SPF so I can bypass that. If yours doesn't, you need to include sunscreen), eye cream. 

I also have dry skin so I bypass the toner. If you've got oilier skin, you may want to include a toner right after you cleanse.

If I'm planning on going out and applying make-up, I'd use a skin primer.

PM: Remove eye make-up, cleanse, moisturize, eye cream.

Twice a week I would exfoliate. 

Okay, so not so bad, right? Well, when you have a fussy 4 month old baby that is demanding you to hold him STAT or very hungry and a 4 year old that has their own needs you need to tend to (which, if you're a mom will know is a lot)... oh and an email that needs to be responded to ASAP; 10-15 minutes of simple skincare will usually turn into 5 minutes of a quick cleanse, splash of water on your face and a quick dollop of moisturizer. 

Sometimes not even that. Just a splash of water in the morning to wake me up followed by a zip-line to my keurig.

Let's make this short and sweet.

I found. I tried. And I fell in love... with Mèreadesso!

The Mèreadesso line of skincare products is designed for the individual who understands that there is no one “magic ingredient” to solve all their needs. They also do not have the time or desire to use 16 different products to achieve their goals.

Finally, it is possible to find the combination of ingredients that addresses all the needs of your skin. There are no toners, serums, day/night or 3am creams, or different formulas for different “skin types” in the Mèreadesso line, nor will there ever be. There is no confusion of what product to use, where or at what time.

And what I love about their products, finally the hubby and I can actually share! 

Their formulas also eliminate the need to segregate by skin type, zone, time of day and, believe it or not, even gender.

Simplicity, ease, and effectiveness. One step, one product, for everyone.

Their cleanser also smells amazing. It's not overpowering like some can get but leaves your skin feeling really fresh, clean and with a nice subtle scent.

I've had some issues as of late with my skin due to my lack of good eating habits and sleep, especially after having a new baby.  I didn't want my face to actually show that I just had a baby and am a total zombie mom.

Dark under eye circles, dryness, and uneven skin tone was my biggest issue.

I even developed some sporadic bouts of adult acne. *sigh*

Believe me when I tell you that after 2 weeks of using the cleanser combined with the moisturizer (that is my new best friend), I have really seen results.
My skin looks way better than it did a few weeks ago.

I am head over heels for the All-in-One Moisturizer! 

Thanks to genetics, I have inherited a little bit of the "gobble-gobble chin" I call it, which is a little bit of fat under the chin which gives a turkey effect. No matter your size, you cannot escape it!

After a few uses, I have seen a decrease in the gobble-ness! 

Dead serious.

This is some good stuff.

Check out all the awesomeness that goes into creating these products here with their key ingredients.

View their entire product line and see what Mèreadesso has to offer you here: www.mereadesso.com.

And thanks to Mèreadesso, one of my lucky readers' skin is in for a treat!

One of my readers will win a gift basket filled with all of Mèreadesso's products (yup ALL of them!) 

Simply enter via rafflecopter below to be eligible to win.

Good luck!

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Battle Dry Skin this Winter with George's Cream Review + #Giveaway

As much as I love Winter, the one thing that I completely dread (aside from slippery road conditions and shoveling) is the damage the cold air can do to your skin.

My husband and little girl are especially vulnerable to dry skin and windburn during this time of year and it's been very tough finding a perfect product to use on their skin, especially the knuckles on my husband's hands to combat the dryness and burn.  It's painful to look at it! I can only imagine how my husband feels!

Another issue I've encountered recently that has been intensified during this colder season is my 2 month old son's cradle cap and dry skin on his face.

Being the very resourceful and probing mother that I am, I of course scoured the internet reading up on the different experiences from other moms and those that have suffered similar issues before wasting money on products that will not work.  I know this because I've already fell victim to many different products that I spent ridiculous amount of money on for nothing but a brand name -- did nothing for my family members.

I heard and read a lot about George's Cream but never thought of it because it wasn't a familiar name.  I saw it sitting on the skincare shelf during a typical stop-off at my local drug mart next to all the other more accustomed products but never thought of it.  

As the name "George's Cream" began repeating itself from the mouths of other mothers and dry skin sufferers, I jumped at the opportunity to review 2 of their popular products: George's Special Dry Skin Cream and George's Light Special Moisturizing Lotion.

What I love about George's Skin Care products is that they do not contain Urea, Lanolin or Parabens and have been specifically made to be hypoallergenic and fragrance free. NO additives, irritants, fragrance or colouring which could irritate damaged skin.  This means this is even great for kids and babies!

George's Special Moisturizing Lotion is a lighter version of George’s Special Dry Skin Cream, and has been carefully researched and formulated to soothe and protect problem skin.  It is gentle enough for use every day and can be used by those with sensitive skin.  

Maintains the integrity of the cream with a minimum of ingredients and has no additives that could cause allergies.  Great for daily use to moisturize, soothe and protect dry skin.

This is a great lotion to use all year-round for those with sensitive skin and prefer un-scented products that do the job!

George’s Light Special Moisturizing Lotion is available in a 30ml tube and 360ml bottle and has a suggested retail price of $2.99 and $10.99

George’s Special Dry Skin Cream was created for lasting dry skin relief.
Provides relief from different types of skin symptoms and conditions.
This product I found truly did work for very dry skin!  It's no wonder it is recommended by dermatologists, pharmacists and physicians.
Provides immense relief for those suffering from any of the following conditions:  Eczema, Psoriasis, Sunburn, Windburn, Cradle cap, Winter itch, Flaky skin, Tough elbow skin, Radiation therapy, Sport chafing (runners, cyclists), Swimmer’s itch, Dry hands and cracked cuticles, Foot problems including those associated with diabetes.

I used this product on my son's face for his dry skin and he didn't get red and break out afterwards like he did with other products and the great thing is that it actually reduced the dryness.  I now use it on the driest areas of his face after his bath.  It's working!
My husband now keeps it with him at his office for his day-to-day as he found that it is helping with his winter-dry and painful knuckles.

Example of the thickness yet creamy consistency of Special Dry Skin Cream. No icky, sticky feeling!

George’s Special Dry Skin Cream is available in a 450g jar, 30ml & 90ml tube and has a suggested retail price of $14.99, $2.99 and $6.49.

Another awesome thing about George's Cream that I love -- they're Canadian! So they fully understand our harsh winters!

George's Skincare Products are available at grocery, mass merchandise and drug stores nationwide including Shoppers Drug Mart & Loblaws.

You can learn more about George's Cream at: www.georgescream.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

George's Cream would make a great stocking stuffer for those you know that need to find some dry skin relief this Winter and what makes it a great gift is that you don't have to worry if the product will irritate their skin -- works for everyone!

One of my readers will win a George's Cream Package including Full-sized and Trial-sized Products.

Enter below via rafflecopter to be entered. Don't forget to leave a comment to be eligible!

*Open to Canadian Residents only. Ends 12/14.

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*Disclaimer: I received full products in exchange for my review; however the opinions expressed are my very own.*

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