Listen to Lena

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MD Moms

Summer Beauty: MD Moms

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The following giveaway is open to US and CAN residents.

Take one of the most sought-after baby brands and give the products the ability to do double-duty beauty for moms, and you’ve got MD Moms.

MD Moms baby silk frequently tops my list of must-have products. The line, created by board-certified pediatricians and moms Dr. Diane Truong and Dr. JJ Levenstein, are the first pediatrician-developed personal care line for babies. And after spending a quarter of a century caring for children and advising thousands of new parents, they’ve truly created your baby’s prescription for healthy skin.

Why I trust the products:

Developed with pure, effective advanced ingredients
Gentle enough for sensitive skin but highly effective
Protect from environmental damage
Provide critical maintenance of skin’s natural moisture barrier
Promote bonding between parent & baby

Why I love the products:

Packaging & products are thoughtfully developed
Modern aesthetics & smart design
Specially formulated so small doses provide big results
Tried and true delicate scalp rub and daily UV shield

But here’s the twist: every product in the baby silk line has a double duty beauty component. For example, did you know:

baby silk gentle all over clean hair and body wash: Great as a mild facial cleanser for mom or dad!

baby silk gentle scalp rub exfoliating cleanser for cradle cap: No time for a manicure? Massage the scalp rub into your cuticles at the start of baby’s bath and voila! Smooth, clean cuticles in a “pinch”.

baby silk gentle all over clean cleansing towelettes: Excellent as a mild, soothing makeup remover. A perfect way to sooth post-sun skin and remove stubborn sunscreen when a shower or bath is not available.

Visit MD Moms to check out the double duty beauty advantage of all their baby silk products.

Over the years, I’ve had the chance to review the entire line of MD Moms products (read my posts on MD Moms: Miracle Cream? and MD Moms: The Cradle Cap Solution.) While the products are of the highest quality and perfectly suited to all infants, I must admit that I steal them for my own personal use more often than not.

I double duty the cleansing towelletes to remove traces of makeup, and give Ryder’s mouth and hands a good swipe when we’re on the go. (Please don’t laugh, but I can’t bear to use them on his bum. With their deliciously delicate scent and soft, touch-me texture, I’d rather use them on my cheeks than his!)

And, the diaper rash cream is an awesome all-purpose balm for chapped, cracked or chafed skin. I’ve tried it on dry patches in winter and heat rash during summer months, and it performs as well (and even better!) than other products specifically designed for those purposes.

But I suppose one of my favourite ways to double duty beauty is with the daily UV shield; I love mixing it with a little tinted moisturizer to get the best protection for both my face and body. The formulation contains NO fragrance, parabens, phthalates, lanolin, petroleum or waxes, and is made from a pure physical, not chemical, sunscreen using Titanium Dioxide & Zinc Oxide as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

All in all, a spaaah! experience for both mommy and babe!


MD Moms products can be purchased online and at authorized baby silk retailers across North America.


One lucky reader will win a baby silk prize pack, including a package of baby silk gentle all over clean cleansing towelettes, baby silk daily UV shield SPF 30 moisturizing lotion and baby silk soothing bottom relief diaper rash cream (total value $52).

To enter, simply check out the products and find your favourite double duty beauty use (you can find these under “Add to Bag” in the online shop). Then, leave a comment here telling us which product you selected.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” MD Moms on Facebook
(5) Follow MD Moms on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this MD Moms Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 14th. Good luck everybody!

Spotted: MD Moms at The Safety Superstore!

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I LOVE The Safety Superstore (or Baby Proofing Plus, as they’re known online). They have the largest inventory of – you guessed it – baby proofing gadgets, in addition almost everything you need for baby: car seats, strollers, shoes, feeding, toys… you name it, they’ve got it.

On a recent trip, I was just about to leave the store when I noticed that they now stock my all-time favourite line of skin care for babies – MD Moms Baby Silk! This is AMAZING news for all my girlfriends in the GTA who have been looking for the coveted line of pediatrician developed products in-store; sometimes you need to feel and/or smell the item to appreciate its quality to the full extent. The goodies are also available online – and check back frequently as The Safety Superstore is great about running promos.

(Canadians can also purchase MD Moms online – and enjoy FREE shipping – through babybot.com)

Have you read my testimonial of the Gentle Scalp Rub? It’s the CURE for cradle cap!

MD Moms News!

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It’s no secret that I LOVE MD Moms baby care products. In fact, two of their items are in my “Lena-Approved Hall of Fame”- Baby Silk Soothing Bottom Relief (my miracle cream) and Baby Silk Gentle Scalp Rub (THE cradle crap solution). The entire line gets my full endorsement and then some.

So I’m pretty darned happy to share the following tidbits with y’all…

“Fans of MD Moms award-winning Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes can now find the same lightweight SPF 30+ sunscreen in a fragrance- and paraben-free lotion. The Daily UV Shield 30+ Moisturizing Lotion is a dual-purpose lotion designed for daily use that keeps skin nourished and soothed while providing complete protection from UV rays.

Developed for babies and children of all ages, the broad-spectrum SPF 30+ lotion contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics as safest for young infants. These pure physical block ingredients offer the safest protection with the least potential for skin irritation. A blend of marine silk, aloe and vitamins E and B5 also work together to provide antioxidant protection, soothe sensitive or irritated skin and relieve dryness. The lotion is clinically tested, certified hypoallergenic and free of parabens, phthalates and fragrance.”

Yes! Yes! Yes! I’ve been waiting for MD Moms to introduce a sun protection lotion – as much as I love the sunscreen towelettes, sometimes it’s nice to reapply just where you need it most. And I’ve just about had it with rashes, redness and irritation from other “kid-friendly” sunscreens – MD Moms Babysafe products are the ONLY ones that Ryder does not react to. The lotion will be available in January 2011 – can’t wait!

Just in time for the holidays, I’m also loving MD Moms’ Silky Smooth Baby Gift Set. This collection of essentials from MD Moms Baby Silk line (the first pediatrician-developed personal care line for babies) keeps baby silky smooth from nose to toes. The gift set includes Daily Skin Protection Moisturizing Balm, Soothing Bottom Relief Diaper Rash Cream and Delicate Skin Comfort Silky Liquid Powder. All items come in a reusable keepsake box.

I’ll tell you this – if I was a new mom, or a mom-to-be, I would be VERY happy with this gift set. It contains three of their most popular items, all designed to provide maximum antioxidant protection, relieve dryness, soothe sensitive or irritated skin, promote healing and protect the skin’s natural moisture barrier. BLISS for baby, indeed.

Finally, yet another reason to love the Moms? They give back!

“Dedicated to improving the health and well being of children, MD Moms will designate a portion of its sales for 2011 to the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Los Angeles (EFGLA) Care & Cure for Children. MD Moms selects a children’s charity to work with each year.

The Care & Cure Initiatives work to improve access to specialty care in pediatric epilepsy and to pursue research for childhood epilepsy cures. In the U.S., epilepsy is the third most common neurological disorder after Alzheimer’s disease and stroke, affecting about 3 million people. Of those, more than 300,000 are children under the age of 15.

“EFGLA’s Care & Cure and MD Moms have a common goal to improve the lives of children,” said Susan Pietsch-Escueta, executive director of the EFGLA. “We’re thrilled to partner with MD Moms in 2011 to work to change the course of this disorder for the children who suffer from it.”

Click here to visit MD Moms.

MD Moms: Cleansing Towelettes Travel Pack

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Every once in a while, I come across a brand or line that literally knocks my socks off. Of course, I then make it my mission to continually post about the products, because this blog wouldn’t be called “Listen to Lena!” if I didn’t try to exert a little influence from time to time :)

Such is the case with MD Moms. I first came across the line while testing their soothing bottom relief diaper rash cream and cleansing towelettes through Parent Tested Parent Approved (you know they’re Award Winners!) and was hooked. Not only are the products of the highest quality, but they’re packaged attractively and have the most glorious marine-inspired fragrance as well.

Why I trust the products:

Developed with pure, effective advanced ingredients
Gentle enough for sensitive skin but highly effective
Protect from environmental damage
Critical maintenance of skin’s natural moisture barrier
Promote bonding between parent & baby

Why I love the products:

Packaging & products thoughtfully developed
Products that do “double duty” by having a dual use
Modern aesthetics & smart design
Specially formulated so small doses provide big results

Now that the kiddies are back to school, why not consider the cleansing towelettes travel pack? They’re the same great towelettes in a convenient, on-the-go format.

These soft, luxurious cleansing and soothing towelettes are effective enough to use nose to toes, yet gentle enough to use even on irritated or sensitive skin. This alcohol-free hypoallergenic formula contains our exclusive marine silk complex to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. Antioxidant vitamins E and B5 help protect from environmental damage and reinforce the skin’s natural defenses.

These wipes are the thickest, strongest and softest wipes you’ll ever encounter, hands down. Perfect for cleaning hands before snack time, tackling messy mouths, and with flu season around the corner, protecting the delicate skin around those tiny noses! I am thrilled that the cleansing towelettes are available in a travel pack – you’ll be sure to find them in my diaper bag.

(Actually, I’ve been using them all summer – to swipe away dirt from Ryder’s digging expeditions, to catch Baby Reid’s drool, and to freshen my own face and neck after an afternoon in the sun. I can literally find over 100 uses for this superb product. LOVE it.)

Click here for information and to purchase the MD Moms baby silk gentle all over clean cleansing towelettes travel pack.

MD Moms: The Cradle Cap Solution

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Cradle Cap: Never Again.

When Ryder was born, I loved his mess of black hair (how is it that he’s blond now? strange). What I didn’t love were the scales, flakes and crustiness that appeared just weeks later. Cradle cap. Ugh.

Since I didn’t have much experience, I attempted to rid his scalp of the offender through old school techniques: baby oil and a toothbrush. And it did work; the problem was that the cradle cap returned just as soon as I removed it. I was literally grooming him like a mama monkey at least twice per week.

Then, miraculously, when he turned around 3 months old it just disappeared. I didn’t question it; I just threw out the toothbrush and placed the baby oil at the back of the vanity. I still can’t look at it without scowling.

So before Reid was born, I made a promise that I would be one step ahead of the dreaded cradle c(r)ap. Do you remember my previous review of the MD Moms Baby Silk line? Well, I was fortunate to receive the baby silk gentle scalp rub exfoliating cleanser –

I haven’t had the opportunity to try the exfoliating cleanser for cradle cap just yet. After confessing to an almost OCD-like round of battling mild cradle cap with Ryder (for 2-3 months after birth, never more than a visual problem, yet always a thorn in this mommy’s side), MD Moms were incredibly thoughtful and sent me their gentle scalp rub so I would be well prepared when baby-to-be arrives in May. Thanks MD Moms!

Well, when Reid arrived in May, you can bet he also arrived with a full head of hair… and I was ready.

This time, I didn’t give my enemy a chance to gather the troops (or in this case, crusty scales). One week after birth, I set aside some time to rub the baby silk exfoliating cleanser into Reid’s scalp. The first thing I noticed was that the formula was not heavily oily (thank goodness!) and actually resembled a buttery lotion. And no wonder – with a creamy blend of natural oils, salicylate, marine silk, Vitamins E and B5, aloe and shea butter, it was a super-combination designed to lift away flakes with ease. Within moments, I was able to simply rub away a fine layer of flakes – no doubt, the beginnings of a stronger foe had I not nipped it in the bud.

And now, two months later, I have not seen a single flake. The enemy has been conquered!!! I can’t believe that all it took was one application in the wee stages of cradle cap to completely eliminate all traces of it. I almost want to see a few scales so I can apply the cleanser again (not really). But I do believe that the baby silk gentle scalp rub exfoliating cleanser would easily stand up to even harsh cases – there are tons of positive reviews online, and I happen to think the whole line is best for babies, period.

Nice to know:

Paraben-free, preservative-free
Contains no phthalates, lanolin, mineral oil, petroleum, waxes, wheat or gluten
Clinically tested & hypoallergenic
Made in the USA
No animal testing

In the US, you can purchase baby silk products directly from the MD Moms website. In Canada, check out babybot, where you can score free shipping on every order. I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

MD Moms on HauteLook!

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Thanks to Jen for passing along the heads up on this FAB deal!

Based on the amazing response from the Lena Loves… MD Moms Baby Silk giveaway, I can only assume that there are a bunch of mommies just dying to get their hands on these high quality products. GREAT NEWS! Tomorrow only, Saturday, February 27th, you can purchase some of MD Moms’ most popular items at HOT prices! MD Moms has teamed up with HauteLook.com to provide their customers with a fabulous one-day sale.

What is HauteLook?

HauteLook brings the thrill back to shopping through exclusive, limited-time, online sale events. Each day, HauteLook partners with premium fashion and lifestyle brands to create private, upscale sale events at savings of up to 75% off retail prices. HauteLook is free to join and everyone is welcome. In the last two years, over 600 high profile brands have chosen HauteLook to host more than 1,200 private sale events for women, men, kids, home, and beauty.

To purchase from the site, you’ll need to register first – I know, bah! – but I promise, the registration process is quick and painless. Then, you can begin shopping! Most “events” are timed over the course of one day only, and you’ll always be able to see how much time is left for you to shop. You can also view upcoming events, which is crucial for grabbing the best selection from your fave designers!

And I just happen to have the inside scoop on the MD Moms event!

Tomorrow only, MD Moms is offering a special sunscreen bundle pack (limited edition – on HauteLook only) that includes a full sized pack (15) + 6 sunscreen singles for just $21 (a $41 retail value).

You’ll also save 50% on these MD Moms favourites:

– baby silk gentle scalp rub ($11 – a $22 value)
– baby silk soothing bottom relief ($8 – a $16 value)
– baby silk delicate skin comfort ($11 – a $22 value)

Amazing! Wondering about shipping?

US orders are charged a flat shipping rate of $10.95, plus applicable state taxes.

For all orders shipped to Canada, we simply charge a flat $10.95 shipping rate (which includes brokerage fees) and an international surcharge of 18%, which covers GST, PST and duties. These charges will be displayed when you check out, and what you see is what you pay – there are no additional charges upon receipt. Please note: all prices and charges on the site are in US dollars.

One way to save on shipping to Canada – take advantage of other events as well! You’ll only pay the international surcharge since the shipping fee is flat across the board.

Lena says: load up on the baby silk soothing bottom relief – this lightweight lotion smoothes on white, then turns clear to provide an invisible moisture barrier and to protect, soothe, heal and moisturize all-in-one. Parent Approved!

Click here to register with HauteLook.com.