beauty

Overcoming Postpartum Hair Loss: My Journey with Routine Wellness

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Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support the time and resources required to run this blog.

If you’ve ever dealt with chronic hair loss, especially postpartum, you know the emotional ups and downs that come with it. Four years after Nicholas was born I was still struggling with thinning hair and shedding that felt never‑ending. Seeing my balding hairline near my temples took a serious toll on my self‑confidence. I couldn’t keep my hair blonde like I used to, and keratin treatments were out of the question because my hair was thin, weak and damaged.

I honestly felt like I had tried everything. From gentle shampoos and scalp treatments to supplements, nothing seemed to help in a meaningful way — until I discovered Routine Wellness.

🧴 Starting With the Basics: Shampoo & Conditioner

The first products I started with were the Routine Wellness Shampoo & Conditioner Set. This set is formulated specifically for thinning and fragile hair, blending ingredients like biotin, argan oil, saw palmetto, naturally derived plant extracts, and caffeine to help cleanse, nourish, and fortify hair while you wash. The formulas are sulfate‑free and safe for color‑treated hair, which was a huge plus for me as someone who loves lighter hair tones. They’re kid-safe too, which makes them perfect for families. One shampoo and conditioner set can easily be shared by everyone. There are also so many different scents to choose from, including limited-edition options like the Orange Blossom & Sandalwood and Pear Blossom & White Lotus winter scents that I had the pleasure of experiencing.

Honestly, within the first six weeks of consistent use, I noticed my hair texture felt more resilient and hydrated—something I hadn’t experienced in years with other shampoos. Within just a few washes, my hair felt healthier and stronger overall.

Be sure to follow the directions on the shampoo bottle and massage it into your scalp for a full minute before rinsing. I usually let the conditioner sit on my strands while I shaved or took a quick “mommy moment” under the hot water.

I also incorporated a detox comb into my routine, using it before showering to help detox my hair and scalp prior to applying the hair serum, shampoo, and conditioner.

💧 Next Step: Hair Serum & Deep Conditioning Mask

Once I loved the shampoo & conditioner, I introduced the Routine Wellness Advanced Hair Serum. This serum is packed with nourishing oils like rosemary and jojoba that help balance the scalp and provide deeper nourishment to the roots and strands. Applying it consistently (especially with a gentle scalp massage) made my hair look shinier and feel stronger right at the surface.

Then I added the Routine Wellness Deep Conditioning Hair Mask once a week. This mask is rich and deeply hydrating, with ingredients like saw palmetto, biotin, avocado oil, and rosemary extract — all chosen to strengthen, repair, and reduce breakage while adding moisture and manageability.

Using the mask regularly became a self‑care ritual — and it definitely helped soften and define my hair in a way I hadn’t seen in years.

💊 Inside Support: Hair Supplement

To tackle shedding from the inside out, I added Routine’s hair supplement. Their potent formula includes highly absorbable biotin, eggshell membrane for density, ashwagandha to support strength, saw palmetto to combat DHT, and other micronutrients shown to help support hair thickness and scalp health.

Taking the supplement consistently felt like putting the final piece in place for rebuilding my hair — not just superficially, but at a nutritional level.

🎉 The Moment It All Felt Worth It

The real turning point? At Nicholas’ birthday party, my best friend (who knew exactly how hard this journey has been) pulled me aside. She said, “Your hair looks fantastic, what are you doing?” And in that moment, I laughed and said, “I use a detox brush and the entire Routine Wellness system.” That kind of validation, from someone who’s seen it all, made every effort worth it.

You can check out more of my hair journey posts here and here.

💸 Use My Discount Code

If you want to try the Routine Wellness system for yourself, use my code ROUTVIBES15 at checkout for 15% off on their website.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum hair loss is not just about vanity. It impacts your confidence, your mental health, and how you see yourself every single day. I truly tried everything. Supplements, masks, oils, salon treatments, expensive products, and countless recommendations. Nothing stopped the shedding or the tears. My shower drain was constantly clogged, my hairbrush filled with clumps of hair, and I would stand in front of the mirror crying over thinning, balding areas near my temples.

Finding the Routine Wellness system has honestly been a blessing. Today, I am being told my hair looks good again. I can get keratin treatments. I can color my hair. My hair feels stronger, healthier, and fuller, and for the first time in years, I enjoy styling it without fear of what will fall out in my hands.

If you are walking this same path, please know you are not alone. Give yourself grace, stay patient, and do not give up. Healing takes time, but finding something that truly works can change everything. ❤️

If you want to chat about my hair loss journey, the best way to reach me is through Instagram via DM or through the contact page on my blog.

Be well,
Danielle

PS. Be sure to check out Routine Wellness on Instagram, too!

PPS. Add the image below to your Pinterest board!

Don’t Be So Clingy: Static Schmatic

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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

As the weather gets colder, I start to layer my clothing and wear a lot of hats. One thing I can’t stand is clingy clothes and fly-away hair. Static Schmatic sent me The Basic Essentials Kit, which includes anti static spray for clothes and hair, to review. Static Schmatic products claim to be a useful and easy way to manage static electricity while leaving no scent or residue. I certainly put their products to the test!

About Static Schmatic

  • Made with Pure, All-Natural ingredients
  • Environmentally Safe
  • Made in the USA
  • Does not test on animals
  • Free of harmful chemicals, toxins, scents, grease
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Gluten-Free
  • Made in small batches

 

Static Schmatic

If only Static Schmatic could fold laundry…

Static Schmatic comes in 3-ounce spray bottles. They have anti-static spray for:

  • Hair
  • Clothes (This variety also comes in a 12-ounce bottle.)
  • Kids
  • Pets
  • Men’s

One bottle is $8 USD (except Hair – $12). I received a sample of the clothes and hair – perfect for the winter!

Experience

Static Schmatic for Hair claims it is perfect for maintaining a great blowout. I had a keratin treatment done right before so I was a little nervous to apply this directly to my hair. It doesn’t have any harsh ingredients (distilled water, plant-based soap, coconut oil, glycerin and salt), so I decided to give it a whirl. I sprayed a few inches away, and it not only smelled fresh (kind of like baby powder), but it tamed my flyaways. It didn’t coat my hair or leave any build-up. It definitely helped keep my hair in place, especially after I took off my beanie hat. I also sprayed Static Schmatic directly on my hairbrush and on the inside of my hat. Next time I go to the salon, I will introduce Static Schmatic to my hairdresser since all of the styling tools she uses cause static. My hairdresser has to tame my wild locks with creams or serums so this would be a quick, organic way to manage my unruly pieces.

Static Schmatic for Hair

I do all of the laundry in my household. There is nothing worse than going for an article of clothing in the laundry basket and feel that electric energy running through your veins. That’s why I decided to keep Static Schmatic Solution for Clothes in a drawer in my guest room. I empty the laundry basket on the bed and spray with Static Schmatic. Not only is it an all-natural alternative to dryer sheets, but all of the clothes are now static free and extra clean from the quick spritz. Static Schmatic Solution for Clothes now accompanies me when I go clothing shopping. This has prevented me from getting shocked on multiple occasions and has saved time when deciding whether or not the clothing is a “yes” or “no.” If I wear layers, I spray this on each piece to reduce static – no one likes getting shocked!

I hope that Static Schmatic will come out with a bottle specifically for linens. I have been using the one on clothing for my dog’s blanket on my bed, their dog beds, and the carpet. I know it says the sprays are odorless, but they seem to have a fresh, clean, baby powder smell to me. It’s super refreshing.

static schmatic1

I think Static Schmatic is great. I love how they are people, pet, and planet friendly. My hair and clothing static has been drastically reduced. I am happy to use and support a business like Static Schmatic that actually cares about the ingredients they are putting in the bottle. Static Schmatic – I give you a thumbs up!

Visit Static Schmatic‘s website and check out their social media links on Facebook, You Tube, Instagram and Pinterest.

Namaste.

Disclosure: I received two bottles of  Static Schmatic  complimentary for review purposes. All opinions within are my own. If you are interested in having your product on Realm of Vibes, e-mail realmofvibesdg@gmail.com for more information or fill out the form on my Contact page.

A New Caffeine Fix: DirtyBird Energy Soaps

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My husband and I often joke that we need an IV of caffeine since we make 8-10 cups of coffee every morning. Working in law enforcement and healthcare brings long, uncertain shifts, fueled often by a good attitude and numerous amounts of caffeinated beverages.

DirtyBird Energy Soaps are a new kind of caffeine fix. This new brand features caffeinated energy soaps in a reusable travel tin.

Dirtybird Energy Soaps come in three 5.5 oz varieties:

  • Original – Peppermint
  • Recover – Eucalyptus
  • Relax – Lavender (This is decaffeinated.)

DirtyBird Energy Soap

The Original soap bars are infused with caffeine and peppermint oil to energize the body and mind.  Scientific studies show caffeine absorbs through pores and hair follicles, which will energize the body even before your first cup of coffee in the morning.  Caffeine has also been used for years in spas on the skin as an anti-oxidant to reduce the look of aging and cellulite.

The Recover bars also contain caffeine and are specially formulated bar helps to gently exfoliate away the day’s dirt and grime to allow optimal absorption of arnica, Eucalyptus and Rosemary extracts. These therapeutic agents encourage faster healing of bumps, bruises, and inflammation so that you can prepare for your next day at school, big game or whatever life has to throw at you (or vice versa).

The Relax bars are perfect for anyone who has had a long day and just wanted to relax. They are infused with lavender, chamomile, rosemary, and ylang-ylang essential oils.  Each of these oils absorbs to relax the body and mind as well as soothe the skin.  An evening shower with Relax helps to promote a restful sleep allowing you to wake up refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

The soap isn’t the only thing that’s special! DirtyBird Energy Soap comes packaged in their patented reusable container, that snaps shut and allows you to take your soap anywhere; the gym, camping, or vacation. If you don’t have a need for the container, you can recycle it!

DirtyBird Energy Soap

DirtyBird Energy Soaps are available in singles ($5.99 USD), a 2-pack variety ($11.95 USD), 6 packs ($34.95 USD) or in a monthly subscription (6 for $29.95 USD), delivered right to your door every month!

DirtyBird Energy Soaps are made in the USA, all-natural, plant-based, and never tested on animals. They are dedicated to creating products to help productivity for active, busy lifestyles.  Whether it is at the office, during a workout, or raising children, they want to help everyone be at their best and most productive!

My Experience

Jason takes and morning shower and I take an evening shower. (And, sometimes, we swap or take 2 showers a day depending on our moods. Cleanliness is next to Godliness, people!)

I love how the soaps are round, big, and have the DirtyBird logo etched into each soap.

I think the soap container makes an awesome dish and prevents my tub from getting yucky.

DirtyBird Energy Soap

The Original is an ivory color soap smells like Peppermint. It wakes us right up and is super refreshing.

The Recover is an orange color soap and smells like Eucalyptus and Rosemary. I used this after my half marathon and enjoy that it invigorated my sore legs.

The Relax is an ivory soap with purplish jojoba specks throughout. It smells like Lavender and Chamomile. I love this soap right before bedtime. It is super relaxing.

All of the soaps lather nicely and wash without leaving any residue on my skin. The smell is present but subtle.

I would absolutely purchase DirtyBird Energy Soaps and would love to gift them for the upcoming holidays.

Do you want to win a 6 pack of DirtyBird Energy Soaps?

Rules: Must be 18 years of age or older and a resident of the continental USA. Winner must provide name, address, e-mail, and phone number within 24 hours of the close of the giveaway or another winner will be selected. You will receive a 6 pack of DirtyBird Energy Soaps (2 of each variety, $29.95 USD value). Contest begins October 10, 2017 at 12:00 AM EST and will conclude October 24, 2017 at 12:00 AM EST.

 Enter the DirtyBird Energy Giveaway!

Make sure you visit DirtyBird Energy on Instgram, Facebook and Twitter.

Disclosure: A 6 pack of DirtyBird Energy soaps were sent complimentary for review. All opinions within are my own. If you would like your products to be featured on Realm of Vibes, please contact realmofvibesdg@gmail.com or visit the Contact page. 

Homemade Face Wipes using Essential Oils

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I have tried every single face wipe on the market. I am slowly but surely changing all of my beauty products to natural concoctions; not only saving money but improving my overall health using the therapeutic benefits of doTERRA’s essential oils. (If you would like to purchase doTERRA products, please shop HERE).

Here is what you will need to make your own face wipes:

[Disclosure: affiliate links below]

 

Directions

  1. Add 5 tablespoons of witch hazel, 20 drops of essential oils (could use more or less depending on your needs), 1/4 tablespoon of Fractionated Coconut Oil, and 1/4 tablespoon of water to your measuring cup. Mix together.
  2. Put cotton rounds into the airtight jar.
  3. Pour mixture over cotton rounds.
  4. Close jar and shake until mixture is well distributed.
  5. Voila! Now you have all natural face wipes!

I have played around with this recipe for the past 2 months. The first time I created this face wipes, I added too much Fractionated Coconut Oil. I have combination skin, so it definitely helped my dry areas but felt a little too slick for my liking on my oily spots. If you have dry skin, I would recommend adding more FCO.

What’s next?

I usually use my face wipes before bed to “wipe away my day.” I also like sleeping on a clean pillow each night. I also use these in the morning and after I exercise. They are super cleansing and keep my face clear of blemishes.

Immortelle

Before bed, I apply doTERRA’s Immortelle. Immortelle is an anti-aging blend. It comes in a roller bottle. I make sure to apply it right below my eyes to negate any fine lines and wrinkles. A little goes a long way; lightly dab the oil on your face.

If you try my face wipes, place an order, or have any questions be sure to comment below.

If you are interested in my other DIY beauty products, check out my Homemade Mouthwash Using Essential Oils. 

Namaste.

Homemade Face Wipes Using Essential Oils

 

come home to delicious plant-based joy.

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Plan a Cruelty-Free, At Home Spa Night

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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

by Leah of Skin & Satori 

Every now and then, everyone needs a little me time; and what better way to pamper yourself than to have a cruelty-free, at home spa night!  So light some candles, put on your PJ’s and get your favorite movie on the big screen.  This post will contain 5 simple steps to have a relaxing and revitalizing experience that only uses cruelty-free products. Before we begin, click here to read some interesting information on why you should buy cruelty-free skin care…

First Step – Treat your Hair

Give your hair a big messy hug with a home-made hair mask.  To give your hair some extra shine try this Honey Banana Shine mask.  Or to add more moisture, try the Avocado & Egg Yolk Mask.

Avocado & Egg Yolk Hair Mask

  • ½ an avocado
  • 2 egg yolks

Mix ingredients well. Apply to wet or dry hair and allow to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing and washing hair.

Hair Mask

Apply a Hair Mask

Second Step – Draw a Bath

After you have washed your hair mask out, draw a bath!  It’s so relaxing and gets your skin soft for the upcoming steps. To get your skin soft and moisturized then you can either add a DIY Soothing Oatmeal Bath sachet; find the recipe here.  Or, add a bath bomb!  LUSH have the best cruelty-free bath bombs with heaps of options.

Soak for as long as you want and make sure you take your book with you!

Bath Balls

Third Step – Give your Face some Love

Working from the top down, start with giving your face some intense hydration and nourishment.

My top pick would be to start with a mask such as the Leahlani Mermaid Mask, which is suitable for all skin types.  This gorgeous mask will help to purify and renew the complexion. This emerald beauty will feed your skin a nutrient dense blend of super food ingredients that will strengthen the skin cells, boost circulation, fight breakouts and add moisturize.

Next, use a hydrating toner such as Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator.  This toner is full of so many amazing organic ingredients that help not only hydrate and tone but calm any redness or irritation.  Improves elasticity, detoxifies and brightens your skin.  This is one of the best toners on the market!

Lastly, use a facial oil or moisturizer.  My picks for a decadent spa night would be either The Jojoba Company Jojoba Oil or Korres Balancing Cream-Gel Moisturizer in Pomegranate.

Fourth Step – The Hands and The Feets

Mani/Pedi time!  Moisturize your hands with Burt’s Bees Ultimate Care Hand Cream. And for your feet use Heel Chemistry by The Chemistry Brand (part of the Deciem company)  For your nail polish some great options are e.l.f., Wet n Wild, Barry M, China Glaze and ORLY.

Fifth Step – Look after your insides!

Your insides are just as important to look after so make sure you finish your night with a light, healthy meal and a refreshing fruit infused water:

Strawberry-Basil Infused Water

  • 2 cups of water or sparkling water
  • 2 cups of ice
  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • handful basil

Strawberry Basil Infused Water

Strawberry-Basil Infused Water

OR

Blueberry-Lime Infused Water

  • 2 cups of water or sparkling water
  • 2 cups of ice
  • 1 cup blueberries, whole
  • 1 1/2 limes, sliced

The Importance of Self Care

Self-care is important for your mental and physical health. If you don’t practice self-care, your relationships may suffer.  Self-care is important for your physical body as well as your mind, soul and overall health.

Yoga Pose

Some people think self-care is selfish or inconsiderate. Self-care can actually make you more effective and energetic. When you avoid things that make you feel physically and mentally capable, you deplete your confidence and self-esteem. Self-care is important to maintain a healthy relationship with yourself, and can be called self-love. It produces positive feelings, which improves confidence and self-esteem.

Self-care is important for your family and friends. They can learn from you, so setting functional boundaries to take care of yourself shows them that they also need to put themselves first and not overextend or overwork. Unhealthy relationships form when you don’t take time for your needs.

Have an Cruelty-Free Spa Night

Plan your next Cruelty-Free Spa Night!

Click here for more self-care ideas.

Don’t feel guilty to take time for yourself to have an at home spa night.  It’s not only good for your skin, hair, and nails but your mind and overall health. It recharges your mental batteries when you focus on something that makes you happy.  So be sure to try to have an at home spa night at least once a month or when you need to feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Do you have any steps that you include in your at home spa nights?

Thank you, Leah of Skin & Satori for guest posting on Realm of Vibes.  Make sure you follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter.

An At Home Spa Night Using Only Cruelty-Free Products

If you would like to guest post on Realm of Vibes, please go to the Contact page and fill out the form. Realm of Vibes believes very strongly in using cruelty free products, and encourages you to only support businesses who don’t test on animals.