Florida Living

Protect Your Family This Summer With Thermacell Mosquito Repeller Bristol Lantern @usfg @ThermaCELL

June 12, 2016 By Marijean

Mosquitoes. Ugh I can’t stand them! I really think they see my children and I as yummy treats because we are always bit up like crazy! I have tried the sprays (they stink and are greasy), I have tried the repellant bracelets (either don’t work or fall off and get lost) and I have tried the clip ons (they aren’t terrible but for me still didn’t work great). What else is there to try I am always thinking? FINALLY, I heard about Thermacell and their mosquito protection products. I was excited to review one of their Lanterns for my back lanai and I was hoping (more like praying) that it would work for my family.

The Thermacell Mosquito Repeller Bristol Lantern effectively repels mosquitoes, black flies, and other biting insects by creating a 15 x 15-foot zone of protection for bug-free comfort. Its ambient light and decorative design perfectly adorn your deck or patio. Ideal for use while you are gardening, observing outdoor sporting events, and hanging around the backyard, Thermacell Lanterns have been evaluated by the EPA for safety and effectiveness.

Works with all Thermacell repellent mats and refills
Includes: Thermacell Bristol Lantern, 3 Original repeller mats, 1 butane cartridge
Requires 3 AAA-batteries (not included)

Thermacell products are effective in warding off biting insects. The repellent creates a 15 x 15-foot zone of protection against mosquitoes, black flies and other flying insects. Thermacell products have been recognized by leading entomologists and outdoor writers as the solution to making outdoor activities enjoyable.

What I especially like about the Patio Shield Lantern is that it doesn’t have a flame. I don’t have to worry about the kids touching the flame, or it knocking over and causing a fire. It has no odor either which is great, to me the on going smell of citronella just makes me nauseous sometimes! I have a 7×15 Lanai and I had the lantern on when I was sitting outside and didn’t get bit at all by any mosquitoes. It lights up nice and bright for a small lantern.

This is definitely a great lantern to have handy when you are outside with your family. It has really worked for us, we have been outside every night with it for a week now and haven’t had any bites at all. I highly recommend this!

Connect with Thermacell: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram

My readers get to save! 20% off Thermacell Products! – Use code “FamilyGuide2016” at checkout on Thermacell.com for 20% off your order of $40 or more!

**I was given a product in exchange for my honest opinion. This review is based on my experience with the product. I am not affiliated with the company and everything in this review is my opinion.

Marijean

My name is MJ. I have two wonderful children and work part time as well as volunteer at my children's school.

Experience the HydraFacial at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery @PVPSnews

June 7, 2016 By Marijean

I have never had the chance to experience a facial before. I have always wanted one, but never had the chance. When I went to tour Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery’s newest location in Nocatee, I was able to learn about all of the different Skin Care Services they do, and one of them is they HydraFacial.

I was recently asked to try a HydraFacial. It’s a moisturizing facial that’s perfect for all year round, so you can receive the facial at any time during the year. I received a complimentary treatment, and want to share my honest review of the HydraFacial with you. I made my appointment and met with licensed Aesthetician Alison Kuzoian at the Nocatee location here in Ponte Vedra. Since I have never experienced any type of facial or skin care treatment, she really answered all of my questions thoroughly, and put me at ease. If you are thinking of getting a skin care treatment from PVPS, a complimentary consultation is recommended.

My experience with the HydraFacial:

The HydraFacial is ideal for all skin types. If you have dry skin, oily skin or anything in-between, this treatment would work for you. It helps with hyperpigmentation, oily/congested pores, fine lines, wrinkles and acne. I have somewhat large pores on my nose and very dry skin, so I was looking forward to seeing what my results were going to be. I was concerned with my skin being red for a few days, but it is a non-invasive procedure with no downtime, perfect on a lunch break or before work. My skin wasn’t red at all after my facial.

HydroFacial Machine

After the Aesthetician explained everything to me, I laid down and had a super soft plush comforter put on top of me. I was nice and relaxed in low lighting and calming music playing in the background. She started off cleansing my skin of makeup or any lotions and sunscreen. After that she turned the machine on. The machine does have a bit of noise but in all honestly it wasn’t distracting. She explained every step to me of what she was about to do, and I really liked that. She told me the HydraFacial would feel like suction but I would have no pain or discomfort. She was right. I closed my eyes and enjoyed the whole 30 minutes of pampering. The 1st step is exfoliation. The serum used removes dead skin cells to reveal healthy skin. The 2nd step is a vortex peel which didn’t hurt at all, but the suction was a little more intense. I felt a lot of tingling but no pain. The 3rd step is the extractions. The suction cleans out pores and also my Aesthetician did a few manual extractions on me. The last step is a serum that nourishes your skin and protects it.

The whole process took 30 minutes, and Alison handed me a mirror right after so I could see my results. My skin looked hydrated , very moisturized and felt amazing. I also had a “glow” to my skin which I loved seeing. She then showed me the container of liquid with all of my “facial dirt” as I call it floating around. I was happy I was able to see that my skin was unclogged and healthier now.

I asked Alison how many times someone should return for a HydraFacial. She recommends every 6-12 weeks depending on how you take care of your skin. The HydraFacial is not damaging at all, and you can pretty much come back when you feel you will need another treatment.

It has been a week now since I received the HydraFacial. I have been using some sample Skin Care products that Alison had given me and recommended to me. My skin is still super soft and moisturized. It feels silky and looks great. I highly recommend treating yourself to a HydraFacial. This would also be great gift to give a friend/family member.

Here is a list of all of the Skin Care Services that PVPS offers:

Complimentary Consultation: Always advised for new patients. Our licensed Aesthetician will thoroughly examine your skin, discuss your skin care goals, and make precise recommendations for clinical treatment and maximal efficacy. All our products are medical grade in order to achieve optimal skin health and appearance.

Click here to see our licensed medical aestheticians

Facial Treatments: Any of our facial treatments may be fine-tuned by your Aesthetician, or combined with other treatments to meet your individual needs.

Signature Facial : Pamper your skin. Procedure includes the following:

Individual skin care analysis
Deep facial skin cleanse and steam
neck/shoulder massage
pore extractions
exfoliating treatment
treatment mask
arm/hand massage
moisturizer and sunscreen

Clinical Facial Treatments: Procedure includes the following:

Individual skin care analysis
Deep cleanse
exfoliation with steam
pore extractions
treatment mask
moisturizer and sunscreen
(Want a neck, shoulder, arm and hand massage? Upgrade to the Signature Facial)

Hydrating Facial: Procedure includes the following:

Individual skin care analysis
Deep cleanse with steam
pore extractions
hydrating treatment mask
moisturizer and sunscreen

Acne Purifying Facial:

Individual skin care analysis
Deep cleanse
Exfoliation with Steam
pore extractions
purifying mask
moisturizer and sunscreen

Regenerating Facial:

Individual skin care analysis
All Environ products utilized during this antioxidant facial are very rich in pharmaceutical grade Vitamins A, C and E.
Deep cleanse
clay exfoliation with steam
pore extractions
alginate algae mask
moisturizer and sunscreen

Exfoliating Treatments:

Illuminize Peel: a very superficial treatment that produces little to no visible flaking. Addresses mild skin concerns and gently exfoliates at the microscopic level. The perfect pre-event treatment that produces a gorgeous glow. Safe for all skin types and ethnicities.

Rejuvenize Peel: Deeper than the Vitalize Peel, this peel typically produces visible flaking for a few days. Addresses moderate to severe skin concerns. Safe for all skin types and ethnicities.

Brilliance Peel: The next level in “deep superficial” peels that typically produces visible flaking for several days. Addresses moderate skin concerns. Safe for all skin types and ethnicities.

Alpha Peel: a superficial peel comprised of glycolic acid or lactic acid. The strength used will be determined during the consultation by your Aesthetician.

Obagi Radiance Peel: a superficial alpha/beta peel that typically produces visible flaking for a few days. Addresses moderate skin concerns.

Epidermal Leveling: a mechanical exfoliation treatment specifically designed to remove dead cells on the surface of your skin, and as an additional benefit, removes the fine velous facial hair (this is temporary and will grow back). This treatment is performed using a specialized surgical steel blade. There is no pain associated with the procedure. This treatment produces an incredibly smooth skin surface texture.

Vitalize Peel: SkinMedica’s mid-strength peel. A superficial peel that typically produces visible flaking and improves moderate skin conditions. Our most popular peel. Safe for all skin types and ethnicities.

Prestige Peel: A true medium depth peel that works in the dermis. A combination of several resurfacing agents deeply exfoliate the skin to produce marked complexion improvement. Produces heavy flaking and peeling. Our practice’s deepest peel, this treatment is predictable and safe.

Enzyme Peel: A very superficial treatment that utilizes fruit acids to gently dissolve surface dead skin. Appropriate for all skin types and ethnicities. Produces a beautiful glow and smooth feel.

Beta Peel: A superficial treatment that utilized salicylic acid to improve texture, acne, and help regulate sebum production. Typically produces some flaking. Strength to be determined by your Aesthetician. Not appropriate for patients with aspirin allergy.

Microdermabrasion: A superficial mechanical exfoliation consisting of suction and light abrasion to reduce surface dead skin. A smoother look and feel is produced after even one treatment. Not appropriate for rosacea skin.

Specialty Treatments:

SkinPen Microneedling Therapy: a minimally invasive, non-ablative clinical treatment. New collagen and elastin is produced over time by creating micro-channels within the skin. Appropriate for most skin types and all ethnicities. Addresses scarring, large pores, fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and laxity. Topical prescription numbing cream to be applied one hour prior to treatment.

DF Facial: A state-of the-art treatment that utilizes the technology of sound waves and micro current to deliver nutrients deep into the skin and tone facial muscles. This rejuvenating and relaxing facial treatment produces very hydrated, firm, glowing skin. A patient favorite!

CO2 “Blemish Blaster”: A quick treatment that utilizes the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of CO2 to improve existing acne lesions.

Waxing (face only): Temporary facial hair removal utilizing the traditional warm wax application/removal.

Brow and Lash Tinting: a cream solution is applied for a few minutes and then gently removed to enhance the appearance of brows or lashes. Available in shades ranging from dark blonde to black.

Makeup Application Lesson: Our Aestheticians are also talented makeup artists. They will teach you about our Colorescience Mineral Makeup while showing you application methods for a beautiful look.

Permanent Makeup: also referred to as micro-pigmentation. This specialized procedure gives a defined and lasting look to brows, eyeliner, lip liner, or the entire lip. Natural pigment is micro-inserted into the skin by our trained expert, Christine Weber. This is the perfect treatment for those who wish to look polished at all times.

The cost for a HydraFacial at the PVPS Nocatee location is $175. They have an AMAZING special going on right now for the summer! $25 off and you will receive a complimentary travel HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator (I use this and I really love it!) and also choice of Eyebrow Design or Lash Tint. This offer is good until August 31st. To make an appointment please call (904) 273-6200.

Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery has many offices, please click here to find the one closest to you!

Connect with Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery: Website Facebook Twitter

Disclosure: I received a complimentary HydraFacial in exchange for my review. All my opinions are my own.

Marijean

My name is MJ. I have two wonderful children and work part time as well as volunteer at my children's school.

Be Prepared for the 2016 Hurricane Season #JAXREADY

June 2, 2016 By Marijean

Hurricane season for the Atlantic basin begins today, June 1, 2016, and runs through November 30, 2016. We have already had two named storms and most predictions point to an above average expectation for hurricanes in 2016. Florida has been on a bit of a winning streak in recent years having gone just over 10 years without a category 3 or higher storm (Wilma in October 2005). Many of us have moved to Florida in that period since the last major hurricane struck and may need a refresher on what risk this time of year brings to our doorsteps.

What does a typical hurricane season look like?

Based on historical weather records dating back to 1950, the Atlantic region will typically experience 12 tropical storms with sustained winds of 39 mph, of which six turn into hurricanes with winds reaching 74 mph or greater, and three major hurricanes category 3 or higher with sustained winds of at least 111 mph. Most of these hurricanes do not make landfall in the United States.

How many hurricanes typically hit Florida?

On average, one to two hurricanes (or more specifically, 1.75 hurricanes) make landfall on the US East coast every year. Of those, 40 percent hit Florida. Since 1851, 37 hurricanes have made direct hits on Florida.

There is little to no correlation between the total number of storms and those that make landfall in any given season. For example, 2010 was an extremely busy season, with 19 named storms and 12 hurricanes. Yet no hurricane, and only one tropical storm, made landfall in the US that year.

What should you do to prepare?

I have attached a couple of pages from a flyer distributed through my employer that are a great reference for storm preparation. Please review and share this detail with your friends and neighbors.

Practice putting up your storm shutters. Know how to do this before you have to do it. Make sure you have all of the tools and hardware necessary for this job organized and ready.

There is also a mobile app available from the City of Jacksonville called “JAXREADY” that will help you monitor weather threats and plan for evacuation in the event of a natural disaster.

Link: http://www.coj.net/mobile-apps/mobile-ap…

Thanks for reading this far and please be #JAXREADY!

Marijean

My name is MJ. I have two wonderful children and work part time as well as volunteer at my children's school.

Protect your Family from Mosquitos with Thermacell @usfg #Thermacell

May 4, 2016 By Marijean

Want to enjoy the outdoors with your family uninterrupted? Thermacell Trailblazer and Scout Camp Lanterns provide hours of bright light and proven protection from mosquitoes, black flies, and other biting insects.

Thermacell products are effective in warding off biting insects. The repellent creates a 15 x 15-foot zone of protection against mosquitoes, black flies and other flying insects.
Thermacell products have been recognized by leading entomologists and outdoor writers as the solution to making outdoor activities enjoyable.

My readers get to save! 20% off Thermacell Products! – Use code “FamilyGuide2016” at checkout on Thermacell.com for 20% off your order of $40 or more! Click here to order!