Archive for February, 2010

Review Roundup: Salicylic Acid Peels, Room Thermometers And An Invicta Speedway Watch

Salicylic Acid Peel: What Does Each Acid Do?

Glycolic Acid Peel: stimulates collagen growth more effectively than any of the other peels. It’s small molecule allows it to slip beneath the epidermis to reach the collagen fibers below and results in 15%-25%  thickening over 12 weeks. Glycolic acid generally causes little or no visible peeling.

Lactic Acid Peel: works on the surface of the skin to treat tone, texture, and pigmentation. The Lactic acid molecule works to pull moisture into the cells, and exfoliate surface cells which helps to perfect the skin’s surface and restore the skin’s natural glow.

Glycolac Acid Peel: With a combination of Glycolic (25%) with Lactic (35%), it provides hydration and tone improvements of the Lactic, with the increased collagen stimulation of the glycolic. It is generally well tolerated because the lactic and glycolic work on different levels or the skin.

Salicylic Acid Peel: a great kertolytic which means it helps loosen the bonds between skin cells to promote exfoliating. It is the only hydroxy acid which is oil soluble which allows it to penetrate into clogged pores. It can be used more frequently than the other peels without must risk for irritation. salicylic acid peel has many benefits and get raved reviews for the face on Amazon.

Room Thermometer: Does the Oregon Digital Thermometer Live Up To The Hype?

Oregon Scientifics’ THT312 Digital Clock with Room Thermometer conveniently displays the time, indoor temperature and outdoor temperature via an easy-to-read LCD display. This unit features a 10 foot weather resistant probe which monitors outdoor temperature for display to the main unit. A convenient LED backlight provides easy viewing in all conditions. This room thermometer compact unit can be wall mounted or displayed on a desk top or shelf.

After reading a ton of reviews, I decided all of the moderately priced digital room thermometers had flaws so I went with the brand that overall seemed well rated (Oregon Scientific). I also read that remote sensors were problematic so I chose this model because it uses an attached (wired) sensor. I am delighted with the performance of this room thermometer model. I followed the instructions and placed the outdoor sensor in a protected location (the wire fits easily under my window (even with it locked for the winter).

Invicta Speedway: Channeling Your Need For Watches

Conveying watch time with the utmost sophistication while keeping in mind the needs of the active sportsman, the Invicta Speedway collection will effortlessly transpose into any journey. Swiss Chronograph movement, 200 meter water resistance, screw down case backs, Tritnite, luminous hands, textured dials in multiple colors are all features inclusive in these handsomely crafted timepieces. An asset to any activity, allow the Invicta Speedway to merge into your sporting and working life.

Classically styled and channeling your need for speed, the Invicta Speedway Chronograph watch for men (model 9211) offers a bold accent to both business wear and casual dress. The three chronograph subdials can measure time within intervals of 1/60 of a second and up to 30 minutes of elapsed time, and it features start, stop, and reset functions. The round silver stainless steel watch case measures 43mm (1.69 inches) with engraved units per hour markings on the bezel. It has a white dial background with black-outlined subdials, luminous Tritnite hands (with seconds hand), and small minute indexes.

Daily Reviews Include The Presto Electric Skillet, Presto Pressure Cookers And Electric Popcorn Poppers

Electric Popcorn Popper: West Bend Does Theater Like Popcorn

West Bend has improved on the classic corn popper design by adding a motorized stirring rod which ensures that every single kernel pops, every time. In about five minutes, the Stir Crazy Popper produces up to 6 quarts of perfectly popped corn, using one tablespoon of oil per 1/4 cup corn. You can clean it with just a quick swipe of the sponge. For added flavor, place a bit of butter in the butter well to melt over the corn as it pops. The plastic cover doubles as a serving bowl, so when the cycle is done, just flip it over to enjoy popcorn that’s guaranteed to be good to the last pop.

I’ve had a number of popcorn poppers ’cause I’m a true fan, whether unadorned popcorn or ‘fancied up’. When the Electric Popcorn Popper hot air poppers came out about 20 years ago I bought a couple of them, but they always seem to make chewy popcorn that’ll stick in the back of your throat. I’ve got a mint-condition Mirro aluminum electric popper from the sixties and it’ll burn corn in the bottom before you can turn around.

Presto Pressure Cookers: Renewed Popularity Discovered

Pressure cookers have experienced renewed popularity over the last several years because cooks have rediscovered what some cooks (particularly grandmas) have known for a long time–they’re really fast. And it’s easy to cook healthfully with Presto pressure cookers, since the food retains so much more of its nutrients and flavor. Presto’s 6-quart stainless steel pressure cooker is a multi-purpose pot that can stand in as a conventional soup pot as well as perform the kitchen magic that pressure cookers are famous for. Chicken Cacciatore cooks in 8 minutes! This professional-quality stainless steel pressure cooker is a handy addition to any well-rounded set of kitchen tools.

Nonabrasive cleansers are best for cleaning this stainless steel Presto Pressure Cookers, though occasional use of a fine metal polish will help the exterior keep its shine. The Presto 6-quart pressure cooker is fully immersible; in addition, the sealing ring should be removed after each use to allow cleaning of the inside rim of the lid. The vent pipe is simple to keep clean with a small brush or pipe cleaner, and both the air vent/cover lock and the overpressure plug are removable. The pressure cooker measures 9 inches in diameter (17 inches including handles) and 8-1/2 inches tall (including lid). Presto guarantees this pressure cooker with an extended 12-year warranty. A detailed instruction and recipe booklet is included; special safety issues that pertain to pressure cookers are clearly explained.

Presto Electric Skillet: Stir Fry Heaven

The 16" size of this Presto electric skillet actually ended up saving room in my kitchen because it replaced both an electric griddle and an old 12" electric skillet. This pan can be used for all kinds of cooking: griddling, frying, grilling, braising, roasting, even baking. The sides are high enough to use it as a chicken fryer or for stirfry. I can check how bacon is frying through the glass lid, minimizing spatter, if any. The Presto temperature control is accurate and the pan heats up quickly, unlike my electric stovetop. In fact, you can get a perfect simmer by turning the knob down just till the light goes out.

Also nothing sticks to it. The only Presto Electric Skillet things you have to remember are: 1)spray it with Pam or some other cooking spray the first time you use it (just the first time), and 2)to maintain the superior nonstick coating, never soak it in water for extended periods (you won’t need to soak it, it cleans up fast and easy). I really like this Presto skillet and recommend it highly. I bought it in February and have used it regularly ever since. Details: Roasts, fries, grills, stews, bakes, makes casseroles and more. Fully immersible with heat control removed for easy cleaning. Tempered Presto glass cover lets you see what is inside. Great for use as a buffet server when entertaining. Heavy cast aluminum.

Reviews Today Include Breville Toasters, Russell Hobbs Toasters And A Cuisinart Popcorn Maker

Breville Toaster: Top Of Line Import From Sweden

Breville Toaster Ikon two slice electronic toaster has a premium brushed stainless steel exterior. It also has extra wide and deep self centering toasting slots. This item has many features including electronic browning control dial, removable crumb tray and a tidy cord storage. It looks good and importantly toasts well. Unlike many cheaper toasters that use a silly thermostat (thermocouple) system to decide when the toast is done, this toaster uses an actual timer (electronic). That means it will toast the same in a year as it does now. Thermostats used in cheaper toasters degrade over time until they’re effectively useless. The only issue with this Breville toaster is it tends to toast the upper portion of the slice more than the lower portion. If not for that minor issue, I’d give it five stars.

If your partner likes their bagel lightly toasted, and you like yours golden brown, you can both get what you want without any guesswork. This Breville toaster surpassed any toaster I have ever used, even the top of the line import for Sweden. It isn’t one of those toasters you need to pop down two times for thick bread. It has a lighted dial and it WORKS GREAT! Everything I have tried in the Breville line has been quality and worth every penny.

Russell Hobbs Toaster: Toast Crispy On Outside, Moist Inside

Russell Hobbs has developed the Toastec System which crisps bread rapidly on the outside, while keeping it moist on the inside. This involves little shutters at the top of the bread guides which block the escape of heated air, accelerating the browning and decreasing the amount of energy used. There is a control for each pair of toaster slots so you can enjoy breakfast with a friend and each of you gets the exact shade of brownness you like. Additionally this toaster includes an ingenious bun warming rack. It sits atop the toaster and its legs hold the shutters of the toasting slots open so that hot air is allowed to rise and heat your croissants, buns and so on.

The Russell Hobbs toaster is large and takes up more space than its 34-year-old predecessor, but I knew that in advance. It is not fast, but neither was the old one. It is not nearly as complicated as it sounded. The "bells and whistles" we baby boomers are not accustomed to on this toaster are very easy to manipulate. No high tech skill needed. I have only had the Russell Hobbs toaster a week, but I love it already. So far I have done thicker bread, extra-long slices, small ones which could actually be done 8 at a time because of extra-long slots, and bun warming using the top rack. The removable Russell Hobbs top rack is present, a real delight, because it was shown in the country store catalog, but not the Amazon photo. I managed to fit 3 hamburg buns on the rack and they were nicely warm in a couple of minutes, still soft inside. It is necessary to experiment a bit with toasting levels, for there is a rather large option range.

Cuisinart Popcorn Maker: Movie Theater Like Popcorn

Enjoy fresh, homemade popcorn in less than five minutes with this simple-to-use popcorn maker. The unit’s motorized stirring mechanism ensures better popping, while its brazed heating element delivers unlimited popping cycles. A 1/2-cup of kernels and 1 tablespoon of oil yield up to 10 cups of fresh popcorn. Offering a healthy alternative to microwave popcorn, the unit allows for choosing the type and amount of oil and salt desired. Other Cuisinart Popcorn Maker details include special vents in the popping bowl, which let moisture escape to keep popcorn crisp, and a removable nonstick cooking plate with cool-touch handles for safe transport. The bowl, bowl cover, stirring stick, and popping plate remove easily for quick cleanup by hand or in the dishwasher.

The Cuisinart EasyPop Popcorn Maker puts the crunch back into homemade popcorn! Special vents in the popping bowl let moisture escape to keep popcorn crisp. Pops up to 10 cups in under 5 minutes, and keeps it healthier by letting you decide the type and amount of oil and salt you want. Operation is simple and cleanup is dishwasher-easy, so enjoy popcorn plain, buttered, tangy cheese or caramel anytime you want it, with Cuisinart.

Daily Product Reviews Roundup: Kettle Popcorn Maker – Lasko Humidifier – Presto Pizzazz Pizza Oven

Kettle Popcorn Maker: Enjoy Traditional Hot Oil Kettle Popcorn

Make hot, fresh, delicious popcorn just like at the movie theaters with this easy-to-use carnival-style popcorn cart. The unit features a large 2-ounce stainless-steel kettle with a built-in stirring mechanism for even distribution and perfect hot-oil popping. It can produce up to a gallon of popcorn at a time, making it a fun accessory for fundraisers, birthday parties, and other social gatherings. For foolproof batches, a measuring spoon for oil and a measuring cup for popcorn kernels come included.

The kettle popcorn maker also provides separate switches for the motor and the interior light, a kernel catcher to keep out unpopped kernels, a 44-inch power cord, and a tempered window for safe viewing. To clean, hand wash with hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly.

Reminiscent of the old-fashioned theatre-style popcorn carts, but in a smaller size that can fit on a countertop or table, the 350-watt hot-oil popcorn maker. With the old-fashioned tabletop size cart, popcorn has never tasted so good at home.

Lasko Humidifier: Theater Style Popcorn In Just Three Minutes

Indoor air can get especially dry in the winter months, especially with heating systems in full force. This three-speed recirculating humidifier makes it easy to maintain personal comfort levels in larger-size bedrooms or other spaces up to 1500 square feet. Water continuously circulates through the unit, which not only keeps the filter moist for clean, long-lasting performance, but also for increased efficiency, using the entire filter surface for maximum, evaporative-moisture output.

Continuous circulation also eliminates standing water, helps remove water contaminants, and won’t re-circulate airborne particles. The Lasko Humidifier blows across the moist filter, allowing water to evaporate and disperse throughout the room as cool, clean, invisible moisture, without white dust or over-humidification. The humidifier offers a 1-3/4-gallon water capacity and provides a 3-gallon output-capacity per day.

Other details include a transparent water compartment, a convenient fill door, a large output grill, an on/off indicator light, and a patented, cascading waterfall that shows it’s working.

Presto Pizzazz Pizza Oven: The Ultimate Pizza Party

The fast easy way to make pizza. From freezer to perfect in minutes. Revolving tray turns the pizza while it cooks for perfect even baking. Selectable top and bottom heating elements. Adjust for bubbly toppings and crisper crusts. Non-stick baking pan. Adjustable timer with audible alarm. This 1,235-watt countertop oven makes pizza in about half the time required by a conventional oven. You don’t need to preheat it–it begins rotating and baking the moment you plug it in.

There are independently controlled top and bottom heating elements, so all types (frozen or fresh) and sizes (7 to 12 inches) of pizza can be custom baked. With a rising-crust pizza, for example, you should run the lower heating element for 10-12 minutes before turning on the top element. For a crisper crust, Presto Pizzazz Pizza Oven bake the pizza with both heating elements, then finish it off with a few minutes of bottom-only heating. For extra cooking time on your toppings, leave the top element on a little longer.

A timer with automatic shutoff lets you set cooking times precisely, and a cooking-time guide for various pizza types is printed on the pizza maker. For safety, the appliance shuts off automatically if it overheats.

Daily Product Reviews Roundup: Nostalgia Popcorn Maker – Presto Griddle – Whirley Pop Popcorn Popper

Nostalgia Popcorn Maker: The Hit Of Every Party

At just under 5 feet, this tall, circus-style popcorn cart will be the hit of every party. The Nostalgia Popcorn Maker cart quickly pops up to 1-1/2 gallons of movie-house-quality popcorn per batch. It features a large 4-ounce stainless-steel kettle with a built-in stirring system and a kernel catcher to keep out unpopped kernels. A compartment in the base of the unit allows for storing supplies and keeping the cart well stocked and looking tidy.

Other highlights include a tempered glass window, a warming light, and an easy-to-clean design. Despite its old-fashioned, street-corner look, the popcorn maker’s meant to be used in the home, producing hot, fresh popcorn for friends and family anytime. Approved for commercial use, the 670-watt circus-cart popcorn maker

There is a compartment in the base of the unit for storage of supplies to help keep your cart well stocked and looking tidy. This popcorn cart offers an easy-to-clean design.

Presto Griddle: Stick-free Cooking And Easy Cleaning

With its exclusive Tilt ‘n Drain feature, the Presto Griddle 1500-watt electric griddle easily adjusts from a level grilling surface for eggs and pancakes to a tilted draining surface for meats to provide healthier cooking. Simply pull out on the handles to tilt the grilling surface. Push the handles back in to return to a level surface. The unit heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly, while its Control Master heat control maintains accurate cooking temperatures.

Best of all, the griddle’s huge cooking surface accommodates up to 50-percent more food than other jumbo griddles–it can cook up to 12 pancakes or slices of French toast at a time, which means the whole family can sit down and enjoy breakfast together. Other highlights include a premium nonstick surface to ensure effortless food release, a cool-touch base that surrounds the grilling surface on the front and both sides, a built-in backstop ledge, and a slide-out drip tray for quick cleanup.

With the heat control removed, the immersible unit can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher.

Whirley Pop Popcorn Popper: Theater style Popcorn In Just Three Minutes

Face it, sometimes the best thing about going out to a movie is the popcorn, those big plump kernels that always seem so much better than what you pop at home. But the Whirley Pop Popcorn Popper changes all that. It really does make awesome, fresh-popped corn that might make you start renting videos instead. The sturdy aluminum pan has a clip-on lid with a stay-cool wooden handle.

A turn crank on the handle spins the key element: the stainless steel stirring system that keeps the corn moving across the bottom of the pan, for even heat and oil distribution, ensuring the best popping results. The lid has steam vents, to help keep the popcorn dry and crisp. The enclosed booklet is a wonderful resource, with not only clear and detailed instructions, but also dozens of recipes and popcorn history and lore. These are folks who really do know their popcorn, and the results are outstanding.

Daily Product Reviews: Fire Pit Cover – Copper Fire Pit – Gofit Chin Up Bar

Fire Pit Cover: Protects Your Fire Pit Investment From The Elements

Keep your outdoor fire pit looking and working like the day you bought it. This large fire pit cover is made of premium canvas like feel and is coated with a water resistant material for further protection from the elements. Cover is hand washable and lightweight. It will fit securely with elastic binding and keep your outdoor products protected from the elements all through the year.

Made of heavy weight 380G Polyester and resist cracking, fading, tearing and mold build-up. PVC Coating increases water resistance and further protection from the elements. Neutral but fashionable taupe color matches your outdoor furniture and environment.

Vented for better airflow to avoid moisture buildup on your furniture and with a tough interlocking seams add strength and durability. Click-close straps snap over legs to secure cover on windy days.

Copper Fire Pit: Durable Wrought Iron Stand

Warm up that patio, deck, or backyard with a decorative Scroll Series copper fire pit from Landmann. The thirty-inch-diameter copper bowl ages to an attractive verdigris hue and serves as unique décor. An attractive, rust-resistant finish protects the scrolled knock-down stand for optimal durability and years of use. The Scroll Series’ domed spark guard is equipped with a ringed side handle for easy access to the fire pit when it’s time to add more wood.

Light up and warm up the next outdoor gathering with Landmann’s unique outdoor fireplace. When filled with flame at night, this spherical fireplace looks like a fireball floating in midair.

A large cooking grate is perfect for steaks, burgers, or for warming up a loaf of bread as the embers fade. Sturdy construction offers years of firelight fun on summer nights. Easy to assemble, the Scroll Series’ portable, lightweight design makes it fun to pack along to the beach, lake, campsite, or cabin.

Gofit Chin Up Bar: Expands Range Of Exercises Door Gym Owners Can Perform

Find a chin up bar that is head and shoulders above the competition. This Gofit Chin Up Bar can be set up in seconds on almost any door frame and lets you work out in the convenience of your own home or office. It latches on without screws, bolts or fasteners, so you won’t leave holes in your door trim. A cantilever design uses your own body weight (up to 250 lbs.) to keep it in place. Gofit Chin Up Bar is more than a simple pull-up, chin-up bar.

It also has two protruding close-grip handles that let you work out with your palms facing each other, a good position for isolating the muscles in the center of your back that control posture. In addition, you can use Gofit Chin Up Bar on the ground as a push-up bar and a sit-up spotter.

Expand your workout potential with this broad-reach bar, which is designed exclusively for the door gym. By itself, the door gym offers a pair of close-grip handles that isolate the muscles within the middle of your back. However, by adding the broad-reach bar, you gain a much wider grip, letting you exercise other muscle groups as well. It’s the perfect accessory for performing behind-the-head pull-ups.

Daily Reviews: Vinturi Essential Wine Aerator – Presto Deep Fryer – Outdoor Propane Fire Pit

Vinturi Essential Wine Aerator: Easily And Conveniently Enhances Flavor And Bouquet

Wine needs to breathe to allow it to open up, release its intended aromas, and of course, make it taste better. Vinturi’s patent pending design speeds up this process by instantly aerating with ease and convenience. The perfect aeration in the time it takes to pour a glass of wine.

As wine breathes, it releases its intended aromas and flavors. Unlike time-consuming decanters, Vinturi Essential Wine Aerator gadget makes the aerating process easy and convenient. Simply hold it over a glass and pour the wine through, mixing the proper amount of air in the right amount of time. The result is a better bouquet, richer flavor, and smoother finish.

Vinturi’s acrylic aerator stands six inches tall and two inches wide, is dishwasher-safe, and comes with a no-drip stand and travel pouch. During manufacturing, the material folds around rods and wraps back resulting in two slightly visible fold lines. These lines extend up from each air hole and are normal.

Presto Deep Fryer: Professional Style Deep Fryer With Dual Baskets

Fry two different types of food at once or extra-large batches with this professional-style dual-basket deep fryer. The Presto Deep Fryer generous 12-cup food capacity allows for frying family-size quantities in a hurry, while its oblong-shaped baskets nicely accommodate large pieces of chicken or fish. An adjustable thermostat allows for selecting a variety of frying temperatures, and the signal light indicates when oil is ready for frying.

Another highlight includes the unit’s 1800-watt immersion element, which provides quick preheating and fast oil-temperature recovery. The appliance’s cover acts as a spatter shield when lowering food into hot oil, and its heating element and enameled pot remove easily for quick cleanup. For great restaurant taste in a convenient at-home size, the deep fryer measures 16 by 15 by 11 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

Outdoor Propane Fire Pit: Bring Your Family Together

Bring the fun of camping to your own backyard. The outdoor propane fire pit uses propane to provide a relaxing, intimate, comfortable fire on demand without the mess and fuss of chopping firewood. The beautiful copper Del Rio Firepit is portable, so you can take it along on your next trip to the park or weekend cabin.

Just connect it to your propane tank (sold separately) for hours of golden flames. Pop popcorn, roast hot dogs, make delicious S’mores in minutes. Includes a gas ring that produces 60,000 BTU, 7 ceramic logs, a realistic lava rock, and a protective cover.