So, finally, I have stopped looking like a craggy old hag. Thank goodness for that. Hurrah all round. I've updated my skin care and makeup routine and my skin looks healthier and far more radiant, which, quite frankly, is about blooming time. So this is a routine review, including all products that I am currently using. The prices are what I paid for them and so they might change depending on where and when they are purchased.
CLEANSER
No7 Beautiful Skin Melting Gel Cleanser, £9.50 for 150ml
The No7 Cleanser is good but not as good as the Clarins Pure Melt. However, the price tag is much nicer and it does a very similar job. Massage into the skin and wash off with warm water, preferably with a wash cloth.
Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Hydrating Cleanser (a gift but approx. £17 for 125ml)
This Elizabeth Arden Cleanser is creamy but not foamy. It is designed for dry skin and leaves a smooth finish.
Body Shop Camomile Gentle Eye Make up Remover, £8 for 250ml
The Body Shop Camomile Gentle Eye Make up Remover is just what it says, gentle. I apply a little on a cotton pad and swipe over the eyes. It removes make up effectively but if there is too much product on the pad, it can be a little overwhelming. Camomile everywhere!
Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel, £25.00 for 50ml
I love the Enzyme Peel. This type of exfoliator works much better for my skin than anything with exfoliating beads. Apply it like a mask and leave for 10-15 mins. It smells AMAZING. It reminds me of Petit Filous yoghurts.... Smells edible and makes me peckish.
Elizabeth Arden Hydrating Mask, £12 for 100ml
The Elizabeth Arden Hydrating Mask is a thick, pinky cream. Its consistency and texture looks and feels like it's doing marvellous things. It's meant to be left on for 5-10 minutes but sometimes it can get quite tingly, especially around the lips...perhaps because it shouldn't be on the lips. What am I trying to do, eat it?!
I usually use it 2–3 times a week and I do notice the difference in my skin when I don't use it. I just don't like the stinging, tingly issues! It applies like any other mask but be really careful not to get it in your eyes, even washing it off, as it will sting if vaguely near them.
Clarins Skin-Smoothing Eye Mask, £30 for 30ml
The Clarins Eye Mask is so gentle and soft and I definitely notice a difference to the texture of the skin around my eyes when I don't use it. It's keeping those crow's feet away, a mask at a time!
The Eye Mask is to be applied around the eye area (shocking, nobody would have guessed...) and I also use it on the lid. It's very gentle and actually, acts as a barrier between the Elizabeth Arden Mask and the eyes.
REPURCHASE? Yes.
www.clarins.co.uk
The Clarins Eye Mask is so gentle and soft and I definitely notice a difference to the texture of the skin around my eyes when I don't use it. It's keeping those crow's feet away, a mask at a time!
The Eye Mask is to be applied around the eye area (shocking, nobody would have guessed...) and I also use it on the lid. It's very gentle and actually, acts as a barrier between the Elizabeth Arden Mask and the eyes.
REPURCHASE? Yes.
www.clarins.co.uk
TONER
Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Gentle Hydrating Toner (birthday gift – approx. £20 for 200ml)
I don't really have an opinion on this toner. I'm a bit so-so but it isn't drying and it is refreshing, so actually I do have an opinion... it works for me but isn't amazing. I spritz it onto the face. This means decanting because it doesn't come in a spritzy bottle.
REPURCHASE? Meh.... No real opinion. I'd rather try the Pixi tonic.
www.elizabetharden.co.uk
www.elizabetharden.co.uk
EYE CREAM
Ole Henriksen Total Truth Eye Crème SPF 15, 3g
( A very lovely birthday gift from la big sister, which came with the Truth Serum and Truth Crème Advanced Hydration – approx. £40 for the set).
The Ole Henricksen Total Truth Eye Crème is thick but absorbs quickly. Smooth and creamy. A little goes along way but get even a tiny bit of product in or too near the eye and it stings like you would not believe. Dab under the eye. To be fair, I do one long swipe (that sounds rude) which can pull the delicate skin, so note to self... probably best not to do this.
Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster (15ml- from set)
The Ole Henricksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster smells amazing and I have noticed a visible difference from using it. Love it.
Apply straight onto the face. Do not waste product by warming between the hands. Slap it on.
Yu-Be Moisturising Skin Cream, £13 for 37ml
I have no clue if the Yu-Be product should be used on the face. It's from Japan and, like a lot of Asian skin care products, it's awesome. It is vitamin enriched and according to SpaceNK, it is Japan's number one selling skincare cream. It contains antioxidants and camphor, which calms my redness and protects the skin. In the morning, my lines are visibly reduced, make up applies so much smoother and doesn't cling to fine lines. The texture of the skin has improved and it is smooth and hydrated. This is the best (and cheapest) moisturiser that I have ever used and nothing comes close to it. Sorry Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Refining Moisture Cream Complex, you have been replaced.
Gently dab on and blend. I put extra on my forehead and the temple area, as this is where lines are starting to set up residence.
REPURCHASE? Yes and I have done so, three times. The best beauty find in a long while. Thank you Glossy Box UK for the samples. I would never have found this without you.
www.yu-be.com
Gently dab on and blend. I put extra on my forehead and the temple area, as this is where lines are starting to set up residence.
REPURCHASE? Yes and I have done so, three times. The best beauty find in a long while. Thank you Glossy Box UK for the samples. I would never have found this without you.
www.yu-be.com
I apologise for the smirk, I was laughing at myself for taking a selfie. Although I will not win photographer of the year, the routine above has massively helped to reduce fine lines and improve the texture of my skin, especially the redness on my cheeks. No filter used here...again, poor photography on my part.
