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Natural Remedy to Better Beauty Sleep
NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula Dietary Supplement for Adults

May 30, 2020 · 6 Comments

Need to optimize sleep, but prefer natural to pharmaceutical options? NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula is a drug-free, comprehensive sleep formula. It has safe and effective sleep support ingredients. It re-establishes sleep cycles without side effects like daytime drowsiness.

NoctoPlex is a drug-free, non-habit forming sleep remedy

NoctoPlex is a natural, drug-free, non-habit forming sleep remedy

Can’t sleep? You aren’t alone.

Sleep disturbance can lead to impairment in social, occupational, educational, and academic functioning. Stress, health issues, or working long hours impair sleep and reduce next-day functioning. Estimates say losing 90 minutes of sleep at night results in a reduction of daytime alertness by as much as 32%.

Sleep Hygiene measures are helpful. But they aren’t always enough to restore meaningful sleep. The pressure to achieve is often at the cost of adequate rest. Once a poor sleep pattern starts, it is difficult to overcome without some intervention.

About 40% of insomniacs have used over-the-counter medication or alcohol to induce sleep. Approximately one-quarter have used prescription medications. [1] It is important to talk to a doctor about chronic sleep disruption.

Whatever the reason you can’t sleep, NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula can help. It is non-habit forming and drug-free.

NoctoPlex contains safe and effective ingredients like Magnesium, melatonin, and Vitamin Bs

About NoctoPlex

NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula promotes sleep in five ways.

It addresses vitamin deficiencies that impair sleep, including those responsible for sleep cycles.
It contains natural remedies for sleep-disrupting discomforts that may keep you awake. This includes indigestion and inflammatory-based minor muscle and joint pain.
It calms stress to enable relaxation without hangover sedation
It helps you get to sleep faster and stay asleep

The vitamins in this formulation are proven to work synergistically to support sleep. For example, it contains Magnesium, melatonin, and Vitamin Bs. A research study found that: “3 months of the Magnesium- melatonin-vitamin B complex supplementation has a beneficial effect in the treatment of insomnia regardless of cause.” [2]

This formula also contains L-theanine, an amino acid from green tea that helps ease stress.

L-theanine has “anxiolytic effects via the induction of α brain waves without additive and other side effects associated with conventional sleep inducers.” [3]

Let’s take a closer look at this drug-free formulation.

The NoctoPlex Supplement Facts list

INGREDIENTS

Vitamin C

Low vitamin C levels are also associated with shorter sleep cycles. [4]

C reduces stress hormones that impair rest. It helps protect from sleep apnea risks including cardiovascular complications.[5]

Vitamin C promotes the absorption of key ingredients in this formulation.

Vitamin B6

The B Vitamins help support sleep cycles, sleep hormones, and tryptophan levels. [6] B deficiencies disrupt sleep. Many women are deficient in certain Bs.

Vitamin B6 supports B12 function.

B6 and Magnesium help PMS related sleep issues. It also is a coenzyme that supports GABA functioning with the Central Nervous System, closely associated with sleep.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 regulates sleep cycles.[7] Deficiencies can cause insomnia and even depression.

Pantothenic Acid (B5)

B5 deficiencies are associated with sleep disorders.

Vitamin B5 helps maintain a healthy digestive system. It assists the body to use vitamin B2, which helps manage stress.

Pantothenic acid also corrects sleep disturbances due to muscle aches and cramping.

Magnesium

Most sleep-promoting nutrients cause relaxation of tiredness, but few enhance sleep and relaxation. Magnesium is a muscle relaxant and it induces deep sleep. Magnesium also reduces some types of nerve pain and headaches.

If our “internal clock”, or Circadian rhythms are dysregulated, it increases magnesium excretion. If not corrected, this leads to a Magnesium deficiency [8].

Studies show Magnesium supplementation improves sleep efficiency, sleep time, and sleep onset [9].

Zinc

Magnesium and Zinc are vitamin buddies. Magnesium regulates zinc levels. Zinc enables magnesium absorption.

Zinc is a dietary trace metal important to Central Nervous System function. It is involved in many processes including cell signaling and modulation of neuronal activity [10]. This includes those related to sleep and wakefulness.

Zinc is a sleep modulator. It improves the quality of sleep and helps reduce instances of waking up during the night. It is believed to activate “a signaling pathway that is responsible for the promotion of sleep”.

One study showed very short sleepers (defined as less than 5 hours a night) ingested less zinc than normal or long sleepers. [11]

Zinc is also relaxing. It eases muscle cramps and tightness that can disrupt sleep.

Melatonin

A natural sleep hormone responsible for sleep-wake cycles.

We learn much about this important hormone from the blind. The blind often have sleep disturbances because their internal clock can’t discern daylight. It isn’t just a sleep problem, it is a 24-hour out-of-sync problem: tired during the day and wide awake at night.

Studies show that regulated Melatonin supplementation resets the circadian rhythms of the blind. [12]

L-Glycine

L-Glycine is an amino acid that works as a neurotransmitter involved in sleep function. The body makes L-glycine and it is found in eggs, dairy, meat, and fish. It both calms and alerts the brain, which is why it is helpful to sleep patterns. It helps build protein, collagen, and aids in digestion. It also reduces unhelpful inflammation, including that related to minor aches and pains.

L-theanine comes from green tea

L-theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea.

Ever feel relaxed after a good cup of tea? There is a good reason. It has anxiolytic, or anxiety-reducing, effects. Anxiolysis is required for the initiation of high-quality sleep.

L-theanine is also believed to have some neuroprotective abilities. [13]

In an eight-week, open-label study, l-theanine was found to be safe and beneficial for depressive symptoms, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. Unlike some prescription medications, it is relaxing but not sedating. Also, cognitive functioning and next-day alertness were not impaired. [14]

This formulation uses Suntheanine which is the trade name for a patented pure form of L-theanine.

Pineapple extract is a natural exfoliator

Pineapple contains bromelain, it reduces inflammatory pain.

Bromelain

Bromelain addresses some discomfort that may disrupt restful sleep.

Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme extracted from the flesh and stem of the pineapple plant.

Bromelain reduces inflammation and swelling by breaking down the inflammation-causing molecules within the body. [15]

It eases digestion, soothes muscular or joint pain, and reduces allergies or asthma. [16]

Cyracos Lemon Balm Extract

Cyracos Lemon Balm Extract is from a plant within the mint family. It is traditionally used as a calming and soothing agent that can uplift a mood. It is frequently paired with Melatonin.

It may be taken within a tincture or tea, but has proven effective in precise doses in supplement form.

A study combined 80mg of Lemon Balm with Valerian to treat insomnia and restlessness. Of the 918 children in this study group, 80% had improved sleep function. Over 70% had reduced restlessness and anxiety. There were no adverse side effects. [17]

It is also used to calm digestive issues that may disrupt sleep.

Lemon balm

Valerian Root Powder

An herb that promotes sleep and is a natural anxiety reliever. It has been used in Europe for centuries. Regular use improves sleep onset.

A review of study literature reports improvement in sleep quality, relaxation, and how long it takes to fall asleep. [18]

Research supports its’ sedative effect results from calming excess GAMA and Central Nervous system activity. It is preferable to other sedatives because Valerian has no hangover effect. [19]

Valerian Root

The Experience

Take two tablets 30 minutes for bedtime. The effect is relaxed, but not knock-down sedated. The collective impact of the natural anti-inflammatories eases muscle aches which makes it easier to be comfortable enough to go to sleep.

These are hard tablets but they are coated and easy to swallow. They have soft rounded edges to make it easier to take. There is no overt after-taste or smell. They are shown below next to a nickel for scale.

The next day, there is no day time drowsiness, dry mouth, or “hangover” feeling. The cumulative use after a few days is especially helpful for magnesium and other ingredients to take optimal effect.

NoctoPlex provides natural sleep improvement without a hangover feeling the next day

The Bromelain in this formulation reduces digestive discomfort & inflammatory joint pain that can disrupt sleep.

About the Brand

NoctoPlex is made by Medella Springs Healthcare. Full company contact information is on the back of the bottle.

They develop natural therapies for sleep, immunological, neurological, and digestive issues.

NoctoPlex is made by Medella Springs

Where to Buy It

Find NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula Dietary Supplement for Adults at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087SCNKX8

NocotoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula Dietary Supplement for Adults

NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula Dietary Supplement for Adults

QUESTIONS?
COMMENTS?

Have any comments or questions about NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula Dietary Supplement for Adults?

The Style Chicks are here to answer them.

References

Bent S, Padula A, Moore D, Patterson M, Mehling W. Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Med. 2006;119(12):1005‐1012. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2006.02.026
Djokic, Gorica et al. “The Effects of Magnesium – Melatonin – Vit B Complex Supplementation in Treatment of Insomnia.” Open access Macedonian journal of medical sciences vol. 7,18 3101-3105. 30 Aug. 2019, doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.771
Rao TP, Ozeki M, Juneja LR. In Search of a Safe Natural Sleep Aid. J Am Coll Nutr. 2015;34(5):436‐447. doi:10.1080/07315724.2014.926153
Grandner MA, Jackson N, Gerstner JR, Knutson KL. Dietary nutrients associated with short and long sleep duration. Data from a nationally representative sample. Appetite. 2013;64:71‐80. doi:10.1016/j.appet.2013.01.004
Kohli P, Balachandran JS, Malhotra A. Obstructive sleep apnea and the risk for cardiovascular disease. Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2011;13(2):138‐146. doi:10.1007/s11883-011-0161-8
Djokic, Gorica et al. “The Effects of Magnesium – Melatonin – Vit B Complex Supplementation in Treatment of Insomnia.” Open access Macedonian journal of medical sciences vol. 7,18 3101-3105. 30 Aug. 2019, doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.771
Okawa, M et al. “Vitamin B12 treatment for sleep-wake rhythm disorders.” Sleep vol. 13,1 (1990): 15-23. doi:10.1093/sleep/13.1.15
Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L. The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress-A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2017;9(5):429. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9050429. PMid:28445426 PMCid:PMC5452159
Ibid
Cherasse Y, Urade Y. Dietary Zinc Acts as a Sleep Modulator. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;18(11):2334. Published 2017 Nov 5. doi:10.3390/ijms18112334
Ji X., Liu J. Associations between blood zinc concentrations and sleep quality in childhood: A cohort study. Nutrients. 2015;7:5684–5696. doi: 10.3390/nu7075247.
Hack LM, Lockley SW, Arendt J, Skene DJ. The effects of low-dose 0.5-mg melatonin on the free-running circadian rhythms of blind subjects. J Biol Rhythms. 2003;18(5):420‐429. doi:10.1177/0748730403256796
Hidese, Shinsuke et al. “Effects of chronic l-theanine administration in patients with major depressive disorder: an open-label study.” Acta neuropsychiatrica vol. 29,2 (2017): 72-79. doi:10.1017/neu.2016.33
Ibid
Maurer, H. R., “Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use”. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2001 Aug; 58(9): 1234–1245. doi: 10.1007/PL00000936 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23304525
Rajendra Pavan, Sapna Jain, Shraddha, and Ajay Kumar, “Properties and Therapeutic Application of Bromelain: A Review,” Biotechnology Research International, vol. 2012, Article ID 976203, 6 pages, 2012
S.F. Müller, S. Klement, “A combination of valerian and lemon balm is effective in the treatment of restlessness and dyssomnia in children”, Phytomedicine, Volume 13, Issue 6, 2006, Pages 383-387, ISSN 0944-7113, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2006.01.013.
Bent S, Padula A, Moore D, Patterson M, Mehling W. Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Med. 2006;119(12):1005‐1012. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2006.02.026
Donath F, Quispe S, Diefenbach K, Maurer A, Fietze I, Roots I. Critical evaluation of the effect of valerian extract on sleep structure and sleep quality. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2000;33:47–53.

ABOUT THIS POST

Like you, the Style Chicks team needs time to evaluate and form an opinion about the products we try. We received compensation for our time and effort to form an opinion of NoctoPlex Clinically Formulated Sleep Formula and its’ benefits. We produced this blog post because we think this product is great and want to share it with you!

Better Beauty Sleep with the Luxe Corala Weighted Blanket

October 28, 2019 · 6 Comments

Good sleep is vital for health, mental clarity, metabolism, and mood. The phrase “get your beauty sleep” is sound advice because our skin regenerates at night. But stress can make restful sleep elusive. Many of us are sleep deprived. So we’re excited about the Corala Weighted Blanket. It eases away stress and enables relaxed sleep.

The luxurious Corala set

Work. School. Deadlines. Family. Health. These can all cause stress. The Corala Weighted Blanket creates a soothing environment and a snugly feel. It uses natural gravity properties to help the brain and body relax and promote restful sleep and better sleep quality.

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?

Weighted blankets use gravity to comfortably swaddle you without feeling trapped or stuffy. This encourages relaxation and sleep. The weight of the blanket works through Deep-Touch Pressure (DTP) stimulation.

Deep-Touch Pressure (DTP) is light, non-painful pressure applied to relax the body. Like how a warm, comforting hug from a loved one feels or how a fussy baby feels calmer once swaddled. The weight of the blanket, when draped over the body, uses DTP for the same hug-like swaddled feeling.

Deep-Touch Pressure helps the body produce “feel-good” neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. The release of serotonin within the brain helps to relieve insomnia.

WHY STRESS IMPACTS SLEEP

Research shows that stress makes the sympathetic nervous system work overtime. How can you tell if your sympathetic nervous system is working overtime? Instead of falling asleep, the mind races, worrying about problems or overthinking about the next day’s tasks. This alters circadian rhythms and causes more anxiety. No wonder restful sleep is elusive!

Corala Weighted Blanket

Functional Design Meets Luxury Aesthetics

The boxed set with duvets and blanket

This blanket set has unique features. It includes:

The Weighted Blanket

The Corala blanket measures 60″ wide by 80″ long and weighs twenty pounds. The color is Living Coral, the 2019 Pantone color of the year. Cheery, soothing and optimistic, it is versatile and suits many decor schemes.

Corala in the color Living Coral

It fits just across the top of my queen bed and doesn’t drape off the sides. This is on purpose so the weight does not pull or feel heavy.

It is quilted with double reinforced stitches and edges for durability. No bead leaks.

The set comes with two seasonal duvets.

SEASONAL DUVETS

The Corala Winter Duvet is made with a minklike fabric that is very soft. It is warm and toasty without being scratchy or stuffy. It is a grey dotted pattern on the top and soft fabric underneath. It is stylish and versatile.

Raised dotted pattern on top with soft darker gray underneath

The Corala Summer Duvet is 100% pure cotton. It has a breathable softness that is not confining or stuffy during hot weather months. It feels like a thick version of high thread count sheets and is exceptionally smooth with a silk blend finish.

Summer duvet close up

Summer duvet

The summer duvet is smooth, silky and lightweight

Duvet Functional Features
A hidden zipper system on each duvet keeps them stylish.

Hidden zipper on summer duvet

Hidden zipper on winter duvet

Eight sets of loops and long ties and multiple sturdy loops secure the blanket inside the duvet. This ensures an even weight distribution.

Sturdy loops secure the blanket inside the duvets

Construction & Materials

The Corala Blanket is 100% cotton fabric filled with a 170gsm 3D hollow fiber blend. It has a 4 by 4-inch diamond pattern. This is both attractive and enables the weighted beads to stay in place instead of shifting around or settling all to one side.

Attractive large diamond stitch pattern holds beads in place

The weight comes from lead-free glass beads. They are odorless and non-toxic. There are no plastic, synthetic materials or chemicals in this blanket.

Two duvets and blanket made of luxe and durable materials

Presentation

It comes in a sleek, generously sized black box suitable for gifting and for storage. The box is absolutely luxe, like Hermes gift box luxe. It has an imprinted logo, thick cardboard, dual-tone design interior and exterior, and a satin lining bottom, like a jewelry gift box!

The set comes in such a lovely gift box!

The outer box comes with a bag and corner padding brackets to keep this gift box perfect until gift-giving. They really went all out on the gift presentation!

Luxe box presentation with lining

It is a great gift for a college or grad student, a new mom, or anyone who could enjoy better sleep.

Gift box and blanket

My Corala Weighted Blanket Experience

I’ve been working on an important project deadline. There have been many late nights working at a computer right up until bedtime. I try to go to sleep, but I frequently linger awake, dwelling on my project, making mental notes for the next day’s work. It keeps me awake when I should be asleep. It is the perfect time to try the Corala Weighted Blanket.

First impressions, it is a sleek and slim blanket, not bulky. I find it comfortable against my skin and not at all scratchy. I like the feel of the blanket and both duvets.

Winding down for bed with a cup of tea and my Corala Blanket

It is hug-like! It is cradling and snugly without feeling stifling or claustrophobic. The beads are not at all noisy when the blanket is moved or while turning over. It fits atop a queen bed or for use to keep warm while reading or watching TV on the couch.

I love how quickly it helps me shift gears from working to relaxing. The weight is not too heavy, claustrophobic or at all stifling. I sleep comfortably and wake well-rested.

For Relaxing…

Sometimes we all need an evening off or a mental health break. The blanket is ideal for curling up on the couch, streaming Netflix and indulging in the snack of your choice. I found it restful, relaxing and enjoyable.

Streaming a movie while using the Corala Weighted Blanket is so relaxing

It is also a lovely addition to a guest bedroom to make guests feel warm, cozy and at home.

Notable features

One-year warranty
Free shipping
Not sure? Free 30-Night Trial
Not for you? Free returns
Both the blanket and duvets are machine washable.

All three pieces are of high quality. durable and luxe

CONCLUSION

A thoughtful gift for your own self-care or for friends and family who work hard and have many stressors. Sometimes grad students and others work on a paper or project deadline and are too wired to sleep. Night Workers often have difficulty sleeping. It is difficult to turn off the brain and focus on sleep for a variety of reasons. The Corala Weighted Blanket is well made, luxe, stylish, and practical. It promotes restful sleep naturally. An easy way to adopt a helpful and healthy self-care practice.

WHERE TO BUY IT

Find the Corala Weighted Blanket at https://www.coralablanket.com

Questions? Comments?

Have any comments or questions about the Corala Weighted Blanket? The Style Chicks are here to answer them.

Leave a comment or email us at [email protected]

ABOUT THIS POST

Like you, the Style Chicks team needs time to evaluate and form an opinion about the products we try. With the Corala Weighted Blanket, we received compensation for our time and effort to form an opinion of the blanket. We produced this blog post because we think the product is great and want to share it with you!

Better Beauty Sleep with the Sedona Weighted Blanket

October 26, 2019 · 11 Comments

Could you benefit from better beauty sleep? Sleep is important for mental clarity, emotional well-being, health, metabolism, and skin regeneration. But stress can make it difficult to sleep well. Many of us are sleep deprived. Fall asleep quickly and sleep soundly with the Sedona Weighted Blanket.

Relaxing while reading with my Sedona Weighted Blanket

WHY CHOOSE THE SEDONA WEIGHTED BLANKET

Weighted blankets are a very popular sleep accessory. If you are unsure if a weighted blanket is for you, the Sedona Weighted Blanket is a great one to try.

Sedona Weighted Blanket is luxurious and not bulky or heavy

The blanket does not feel too heavy or confining to the body. The 15-pound weighted blanket is optimal for someone under 150 pounds or anyone concerned that they would feel stifled under a heavy weighted blanket.

It also a good choice because it is exceptionally cozy. The soft blanket cover fabric does not require a duvet or additional cover. It is machine washable. And it is a very well made blanket.

Luxuriously soft on both sides it is warm and cozy

Sedona sews in their weighted glass pellets. This is an ingenious idea that keeps the weighted material in place. It does not make any noise when turning over or moving the blanket. The way the pellets are sewn in, you do not feel them directly. The blanket uses a seven layer system that is warm but not bulky.

Some weighted blankets in the past used weighting material that eroded in the wash. The Sedona blanket glass pellets are durable and withstand washing and daily use. The glass pellets are non-toxic.

The Sedona Weighted Blanket comes with a LIFETIME warranty.

The Sedona Weighted Blanket is rated Amazon’s Choice for “anxiety weighted blanket”

It is well made, cozy & feels luxurious.

The Sedona Weighted Blanket comes in a sturdy box with handle.

HOW THE SEDONA WEIGHTED BLANKET WORKS

The blanket uses gravity to lightly apply very gentle pressure to the body. This naturally prompts the body to produce the “feel-good” neurotransmitter serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin relieves insomnia and causes a calm state of relaxation. It also helps calm restless leg syndrome. Melatonin helps with natural sleep rhythms to make you sleepy without medications. It also decreases cortisol, the stress hormone that can make the mind “race” at night when trying to sleep.

WHO BENEFITS FROM A WEIGHTED BLANKET

Any adult who could reduce stress naturally and could enjoy better sleep. No matter the source of the stress, a weighted blanket can help.

A study tested a weighted blanket on persons reporting stress and sleep disturbances. “Data obtained on effectiveness reveal 33% demonstrated lowering in EDA when using the weighted blanket, 63% reported lower anxiety after use, and 78% preferred the weighted blanket as a calming modality.” [1]

Research shows weighted blankets have been helpful for those suffering with:

Insomnia
Stress
Restless Leg Syndrome
ADHD
Autism
PSTD

Weighted blankets are very useful for people who have disrupted circadian rhythms and unusual sleep patterns and such as college students, new moms, and night shift workers.

Weighted blankets are also very useful to relax when stressed during waking hours. The blanket is perfect for relaxing on the couch reading or watching a movie. The Sedona Weighted Blanket is an easy, effective way to promote self-care.

Sedona Weighted Blanket has a luxurious dual-sided micromink finish

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

The Sedona Weighted Blanket is luxurious, durable, well-made and cozy.

It features dual-sided, velvety soft micro mink fleece fabric. It comes in gray or red, twin or queen size. It features a squared cross stitch design. The stitching and trim have no loose threads, even after washing.

Large square stitched pattern on luxuriously soft surface lays smoothly on the bed

It is not bulky or cumbersome yet keeps one warm and toasty.

Both sides have a plush and luxurious feel with no stiffness

Quality stitching on the dual-sided luxurious micro mink fleece fabric material

the luxurious blanket is not bulky but is so cozy, even on the seams and edges

MATERIALS

It uses non-toxic weighted glass pellets that are sewed into the blanket to keep the weights in place. There is no shifting or uneven weight. It doesn’t make noise while turning over or shifting.

MY EXPERIENCE WITH THE SEDONA WEIGHTED BLANKET

I don’t like the feel of heavy blankets on me, so I didn’t know if I would like the sensation of a weighted blanket. I was pleasantly surprised by how cozy the Sedona Weighted Blanket feels. I did not find the blanket too heavy to sleep under. It is not bulky at all. I expected to feel claustrophobic but I wasn’t aware of the weight at all. The soft micromink is cozy and warm, not scratchy at all.

It feels snuggly and hug-like. It sort of sinks in around me while I am drifting to sleep which keeps me warm on these New England chilly evenings. It is VERY relaxing. I LOVE using it while reading in my favorite chair or when I want a stress free stay at home Netflix movie night.

The Sedona Weighted Blanket is relaxing while streaming a movie or working on my laptop

I often work on my computer on papers or projects late into the evening until it is time to go to sleep. But it is often difficult to relax after working so late. I find using the blanket helps me switch gears and get into rest mode. It is even helpful to use the blanket for an hour or so before bed to start to wind down and relax.

Even folded, the Sedona Weighted blanket is not bulky or cumbersome

CONCLUSION

A luxurious, well-made, durable, machine-washable weighted blanket that is cozy and not too heavy. The sewn-in glass pellets do not shift and do not feel stiff or uncomfortable. The seven layer design is warm but not bulky. It has a lifetime warranty for peace of mind. It is a relaxing, luxurious blanket that helps the body produce serotonin. This promotes calmness and relaxing sleep patterns.

WHERE TO BUY IT

Find the Sedona Weighted Blanket in gray or red, twin or queen size at Amazon

QUESTIONS?
COMMENTS?

Have any questions or comments about Sedona Weighted Blanket? The Style Chicks are here to answer them.

Leave a comment or email us at [email protected]

REFERENCES

Brian Mullen BS, Tina Champagne MEd, OTR/L, Sundar Krishnamurty PhD, Debra Dickson APRN, BC & Robert X. Gao PhD (2008) Exploring the Safety and Therapeutic Effects of Deep Pressure Stimulation Using a Weighted Blanket, Occupational Therapy in Mental Health, 24:1, 65-89, DOI: 10.1300/J004v24n01_05

ABOUT THIS POST

Like you, the team here at Style Chicks needs time to evaluate and form an opinion of any of the products we talk about. In the case of the Sedona Weighted Blanket, we received compensation for our time and effort to form an opinion of this product. We produced this blog post because we think the product is great and want to share it with you!

Better Beauty Sleep: NTBAY 100% BRUSHED Microfiber Pillowcases

September 29, 2019 · 18 Comments

The best skincare products in the world won’t work properly if your body is not getting the proper amount of restorative sleep. That is why on Style Chicks we have a Better Beauty Sleep series, with tips and products that we find help us to get a better night’s sleep.

You spend (hopefully) eight hours asleep. That is eight hours that your hair and skin are in contact with your pillowcase. It is also eight hours that your hair and skin can either be subjected to friction and irritation, or to gentle, soft comfort. We prefer the latter, which is why we love NTBAY 100% Brushed Microfiber Pillowcases.

WHY WE LIKE NTBAY 100% BRUSHED Microfiber Pillowcases:

NTBAY 100% BRUSHED Microfiber Pillowcases are soft and luxurious feeling against my skin and my hair easily glides over them, almost like a silk pillowcase. I don’t wake up with “pillow face” thanks to the soft microfiber. It is so gentle on skin!

I also don’t wake up with staticky or frizzy hair. I can style my hair at night and it is as smooth and glossy the next morning as it was when I went to bed!

These generously sized pillowcases are soft on skin and hair

Cozy enough for lounging in bed on a lazy Sunday

Other features of NTBAY 100% BRUSHED Microfiber Pillowcases:

They are made of 100% Microfiber
The package contains four Queen size pillowcases (20″x30″). The pillowcases are very well made, and the stitching looks like very expensive pillowcases.
They are breathable so you won’t get too hot at night!
They are wrinkle-resistant. In addition to looking nicer, wrinkle-resistant pillowcases are gentler on your skin and hair.
They are stain-resistant, which is great for nights that your skincare products accidentally get on your pillowcase.
They use an Environmentally-Friendly dyeing technique that is gentle on the skin. So you don’t have to worry about your skin getting irritated from harmful chemicals on your pillow!
Easy Care: Machine Wash Cold on the Gentle Cycle.
NTBAY 100% BRUSHED Microfiber Pillowcases are available in Standard, Queen, King, and Body Pillow Size!

Fold-over flap detailing completely covers the pillow

Well done seams and stitching

THE BEST PART: SO. MANY. COLOR. CHOICES!

There are 24 color choices to choose from! No matter what your color scheme, you will find a gorgeous, rich color to match. I like adding a pop of color to neutral bedscapes with gorgeous colored pillows, and there are endless variations to work with! Pink and Sage Green make for a fun and bright color combo, and Pale Orange and Coffee and perfect for Autumn! Try pairing them with Copper colored throw pillows or a duvet cover for a luxurious Fall look.

Crisp white pillowcases add a crisp, modern look and feel to vibrant autumn colors or metallics

Tie together bright colors, metallics, and patterns with these crisp white pillowcases

I picked Sage Green and Royal Blue for this time of year because the Sage Green is still a little Summery, but is also a little Autumnal. They go gorgeously with the richness of the Royal Blue pillowcases! And when it comes to pillowcases, you can never go wrong with crisp white!

Comes in twenty-four vibrant colors

The fabric feels really good too. This month has been a little crazy temperate-wise, so I’ve gotten to experience them on both weather extremes. On hot nights there are cool and don’t cling to your face (I hate that!), and on cold nights they provide warmth thanks to the microfiber!

And after a couple of washings, they are getting softer but are staying just as strong and fresh looking! They haven’t faded or gotten thinner, as some linens tend to do. The no-fade feature is a perk since the pillowcases set comes in so many lovely, vibrant colors.

Mix and match colors for a bright and cheery look

I particularly like that this set has four pillowcases since it allows the ability to switch out pillowcases each night and have spares to wash. Ideally, you should change out your pillowcase daily, as is the recommendation by dermatologists, for keeping your facial skin as clean and clear as possible.

Make a guest room feel comfy with multiple pillows. NTBAY comes four pillowcases in each set

The only thing I would like different about the pillowcase sets is that the packaging is a little tight for four pillowcases, so there were some creases that I had to gently iron out when I first used them. It’s a very small thing, but it would be nice to have them arrive crease-free, especially if I was giving them as a gift.

Four generously sized pillowcases per set

Speaking of giving them as a gift, NTBAY 100% BRUSHED Microfiber Pillowcases would make an excellent gift. Either for a child off at college, a friend who needs a pick me up, or to an elderly neighbor, being able to send soft, colorful pillowcases like these makes for a great gift!

WHERE TO BUY IT

Find NTBAY 100% BRUSHED Microfiber Pillowcases at Amazon

Watch our unboxing video:

QUESTIONS? COMMENTS?

Have questions about NTBAY 100% Brushed Microfiber Pillowcases? The Style Chicks are here to answer them.

Leave a comment or email us at [email protected]

ABOUT THIS POST

Like you, the team here at Style Chicks needs time to evaluate and form an opinion of the products we talk about. With the NTBAY 100% Brushed Microfiber Pillowcases, we received compensation for our time and effort to form an opinion of this product. We produced this blog post because we think the product is great and want to share it with you!

Better Beauty Sleep: PineTales Organic Buckwheat Pillow

June 17, 2019 · 18 Comments

We love beauty sleep. Quality sleep is important for metabolism, brain function, stress reduction, restoring our bodies, minds, and… of course, our skin. The right pillow is key to better sleep. We tried the Pinetales Organic Buckwheat Pillow with Bamboo Cover. Read how Pinetales can improve your beauty sleep.

Pinetales Buckwheat Pillow

SKIN RESTORATION REQUIRES QUALITY SLEEP

For nightly treatment products to address skin issues, we must get restorative sleep. Collagen production and cell regeneration take place as we sleep. (1) Good pillows are conducive to sleeping well.

QUALITY PILLOWS PROMOTE QUALITY SLEEP

I’ve frequently replaced foam pillows because they get too lumpy. But a quality buckwheat pillow lasts for years. The Pinetales Organic Buckwheat Pillow features make it a superior choice.

Buckwheat crop stalks before harvesting

What is Buckwheat?

Buckwheat is a crop plant. The buckwheat seed has a thin, hard shell or “hull”.

In Japan, these hulls are traditionally used as pillow filling.

A field crop of buckwheat

Buckwheat in its’ shell after harvest.

Why Use Buckwheat Hulls as Pillow Filling?

Hulls are chemical-free, durable, hypoallergenic and gluten-free. They provide a comfortable, adjustable level of head and neck support.

The Buckwheat pillow concept soon became mass marketed. There are low-quality and high-quality buckwheat pillows. It is important to choose a buckwheat pillow with high-quality hulls.

WHAT MAKES THE PINETALES ORGANIC BUCKWHEAT PILLOW SPECIAL

Pinetales Organic Buckwheat pillows promise only the highest quality hulls. Pinetales hulls are odor and pesticide-free. Pesticide-free products run a higher risk of attracting bugs. Pinetales ensures that their hulls are bug-free. All hulls are triple screened and heat treated.

ORGANIC COMPONENTS

An important factor to the skin and health is our collective toxin exposure. We’re exposed to pollutants and chemicals daily. Our pillow exposure is for one-third of our lives. We reduce unnecessary chemical exposure by choosing organic pillows over fiberfill. Even chemicals that aren’t toxic can irritate the skin. This pillow contains only skin-friendly, organic components.

PILLOW CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN

BAMBOO COVER

Bamboo provides soft, hypoallergenic, durable fabric for soft organic luxury sheets

Bamboo provides soft, hypoallergenic, durable and organic fabric

We love that this pillow comes with a bamboo cover. Bamboo is much better for skin and hair than polyester or cotton covers.

Bamboo can be quite soft and breathes more than cotton. It has natural odor-resistant and pest-resistant properties. Bamboo is hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and antibacterial.

The Pinetales cover is extra thick and so far has been quite durable. It is machine washable. It is ready to use, there are no chemicals to wash off.

Comfy quilted Pinetales bamboo pillowcase

The pillow has the outer quilted Jacquard bamboo cover with a hidden side zipper (shown open below) and the inner pillow with an inner zipper (shown closed) which contains the buckwheat hull filling.

Pillow standing on its' side, with both zippers open to access the buckwheat hull filling.

Pillow standing on its’ side, with both zippers seen. The inner zipper encloses the buckwheat hull filling.

Inner lining of Pinetales bamboo pillow cover on StyleChicks

The inner lining of the Pinetales bamboo pillow cover is soft, quilted and well made.

Puffy soft bamboo cover

BUCKWHEAT HULL FILLING

Buckwheat hulls are hard and thin. They look like they’d be too hard to sleep upon. But they’re tiny and surprisingly comfortable, not sharp or pointy. Once weight or pressure is pressed upon the hulls, they conform to the shape of the head or neck.

A dime for scale amongst the Pinetales hull filling. The hulls are hard but thin and tiny, so they adjust to weight.

WHY BUCKWHEAT HULLS MAKE GOOD PILLOW FILLING

The hulls grip together under weight to provide stable, cradling support.
Distributes weight evenly. This is important for those with shoulder or neck strain, lower back pain, muscle tension, headaches, and stress.
Hull shape allows for ventilation to keep the pillow cool.

Close up of hulls spilling out of unzipped pillow.

Close up of hulls spilling out of the unzipped Pinetales pillow.

DOCTORS AND PILLOWS: SUPERIOR SLEEP POSITION FOR SKIN, POSTURE & HEALTH

Dermatologists recommend that the head is elevated while sleeping. This allows for excess fluid to drain and you won’t wake up puffy.
Orthopedists recommend proper head and neck support to avoid neck and back issues.

MY EXPERIENCE

My Queen or standard pillowcases fit nicely on this pillow.

This pillow comes filled to the brim! Depending on the size selected, there are four or nine pounds of Organic Buckwheat Hulls, depending on the size pillow you choose.

The pillowcase zipper and inner pillow zipper reveal the generously stuffed Buckwheat hull filling inside

ADJUSTING THE FILLING: I removed a fair amount of filling to adjust to my needs. The more filling in the pillow, the less room the hulls have to move, and the harder it feels. Less filling gives a softer feel to conform to your head and neck.

I experimented until I found the perfect level of filling for me. The green cup seen below holds six ounces. I removed five heaping cups of hulls this size from the pillow to make it just right for me. The durable double YKK zipper design allows for easy access to remove or add the filling.

Remove and add the excess hulls until the pillow is just the right degree of firmness for your comfort.

Extra hulls. Remove or add the excess hulls until the pillow is just the right degree of firmness for your comfort.

Adjust the firmness of the pillow by unzipping the two zippers and removing some hull filling.

TIP: Place the pillow on a flat table surface or over newspaper to remove the excess hulls as the surplus may spill out.

TIP: To remove the hulls Place the pillow on a flat table surface when removing the excess hulls as the surplus may spill out.

A handful of hull pillow filling

SLEEPING: I am a side sleeper, but this pillow makes easier to sleep on my back. My head and neck are comfortably supported.

STAYS COOL: I didn’t have to flip the pillow over during the night for the “cool” side of the pillow. Buckwheat hulls keep cool and create enhanced air circulation. Keeping a cool head is an important component in sleeping well. Ever hear the phrase “cool head and warm feet”? Studies show our heads are most comfortable being cool while trying to get to sleep and to stay asleep.

CONCLUSION

This pillow works for stomach, side and back sleepers. It stays cool and keeps you comfortable with adjustable firmness. Organic and durable, this pillow will promote better beauty sleep for years to come.

The pillow came with a soft, silky eye mask. Sweet dreams!

WHERE TO BUY IT

Find the Pinetales Organic Buckwheat Pillow with Bamboo Cover at Pinetales.com

REFERENCES

J Drugs Dermatol. 2014 Feb;13(2):130-4.
Therapeutic implications of the circadian clock on skin function.
Luber AJ, Ensanyat SH, Zeichner JA.
https://jddonline.com/articles/dermatology/S1545961614P0130X/

QUESTIONS? COMMENTS?

Have any questions about Pinetales Organic Buckwheat Pillow? The Style Chicks are here to answer them.

Leave a comment or email us at [email protected]

ABOUT THIS POST

Like you, the team here at Style Chicks needs time to evaluate and form an opinion of the products we talk about. With the Pinetales Organic Buckwheat Pillow, we received compensation for our time and effort to form an opinion of this product. We produced this blog post because we think the product is great and want to share it with you!