South Korean Pyunkang Yul is all about ingredients that are truly beneficial for your skin and not for the formula. That said, the formulas are really elegant and pleasant to use. Gothamista's review on youtube got me interested in this brand, so at first I tried quite a few samples, liked all the products and took the plunge with the nutrition cream first.
First of all, the amount of the product is massive 100ml. This cream should used as the last step in your skincare routine, it is rich in emolliants, contains macadiamia nut oil, shea butter and beeswax to seal the moisture in. A little goes a long way with it and if you have put too much you will feel it - the skin will not be able to absorb it. It comes with a tiny spatula and the size of the spatula is indicative of how much product should be used, ie. very little. Having said that, the cream is not very heavy or thick, it melts into the skin upon contact. I also like the heavy blue glass jar.
I use it mostly in the evenings because it tends to leave my face shiny, however really dry skins might like it during daytime too. My chin (the driest part of my face) absorbs the cream pretty quickly while my forehead never fully does. This is a really good moisturiser for winter time. I wake up with skin that is soft, calm (not red, tight, itchy or peeling) and moisturised. I experienced no breakouts from this product.
Ingredients:
Astralagus Membranaceus Root Extract - increases blood circulation which builds up skins ability to heal and protect itself. Rich in antioxidants and other skin beneficial phyto-chemicals.
Butylene Glycol - Texture enhancer, increases product penetration, humectant.
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate - emolient, texture enhancer.
Butylene Glycol Dycaprilate/Dicaprate - Emulsifier, mix of butylene glycol (see above) and capric acid (plant derived fatty acid)
Hydrogenated Polydecene - a synthetic polymer, emollient and skin softener.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) - you probably know about this ingredient and everyone has their experience and opinion of it. It moisturises, reduces irritation, is rich in stearic and oleic acids, vitamins A and E. While some find that it clogs their pores, I am fine with it. It rates 0 on comedogenic scale.
Cyclopentasiloxane - a lightweight silicone. Keeps the moisture in. I don't like silicones much, but I never had a problem with this one in particular and it is pretty far down the ingredients list.
Cetearyl Alcohol - fatty alcohol. Emollient, texture enhancer, carrying agent for other ingredients.
Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil - Comedogenic rating 2-3, but great at moisturising.
Polysorbate 60 - used as a thickening agent, and/ or to dissperse oil in water in formulas.
1,2- Hexanediol - synthetic preservative and moisture-binding agent.
Beeswax - thickening agent, emolliant. It is said to have antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Gyceryl Stearate - mix of glycerin and stearic acid. emolliant, surfactant, emulsifier.
Cyclohexasiloxane - silicone used to improve texture, emollient.
Sodium Hyaluronate - highly effective hialuronic acid in salt form.
Sorbitan Sesquioleate - emolliant, derived from sorbitol which is a humectant.
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloydimethil Taurate Copolymer - synthetic polymer used as a stabilizer, teture enhancer. Provides sensation of freshness followed by melting when in contact with skin.
Isodexadecane - texture enhancer, solvent, skin conditioning agent.
Polysorbate 80 - is used as surfactant and emulsifier.
PEG-100 Stearate - emolliant
Gyceryl Caprate - monoesther of glycerin and capric acid. Emolliant, absorption enhancer.
*If you notice any mistakes in the ingredient explanation, please let me know, I am not a chemist, I am just a skincare enthusiast who can google very quickly. Paula's choice website is my favourite for no-nonsense ingredient explanation.
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What is it: Hydrating toner.
Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Dimethyl Sulfone, Betaine, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Natto Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Polyquaternium-51, Chlorphenesin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Carbomer, Panthenol, Arginine, Luffa Cylindrica Fruit/Leaf/Stem Extract, Beta-Glucan, Althaea Rosea Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Lysine HCL, Proline, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Acetyl Methionine, Theanine, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Copper Tripeptide-1
This toner has saved my face from a total dehydration at the end of the summer. I then was suffering from congestion and breakouts (thanks Clinique Moisture Surge!) so I've upped my exfoliation game and my skin felt more dehydrated and sensitive. It felt tight and dry even after a gentle balm cleansing, so as soon as I was done with cleanse/acid I was drenching my skin with this toner. While the texture is thicker like an essence, it would sink in immediately with no residue and my skin wouldn't feel tight anymore. I could take my time with following steps of my skincare routine.
I've tried both scented and unscented versions and I can't tell the difference, the smell was so mild. However if you're very sensitive to essential oils, go for the unscented version, it's just as good and hydrating.
Hydrating toners and Korean skincare in general are new to me and I am really enjoying them. Dehydration is one of my main concerns, so layering gentle and lightweight products seems like the way to go.
I am currently trialling Cosrx Galactomyces toner which is less hydrating but I am interested in fermented skincare and if I see any effect on my skin. If not, I will definitely return to this beauty.
I like something light and hydrating, not sticky and with mild or no fragrance. And CeraVe is it. The ingredient list also looks decent, first few are: Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol. Then follows dimethicone, a type of silicone, which I really don't mind on the body (I'm suspecting this ingredient in Clinique Moisture Surge is making my face break out).
However, I find it slightly annoying that sodium hylauronate is at the end of the list, meaning that the hyaluronic acid is there only so that the brand can claim it being there. How will such a small amount affect your skin is anyones' guess.
Overall, nice lightweight lotion, that sinks in quickly, leaving the skin hydrated and happy. Not sticky, not perfumed, love the packaging with the pump. £9.00 in the UK, but Boots recently did a promotional deal where it was 20-30% off so wait for it and stock up. That's what I've done.
How long I've used them: It Cosmetics is all used up, it lasted me about 7 months with almost daily use. BareMinerals I've used for 10 days.
Similarities:
They're both foundations who are trying to be more. They both offer high mineral sun protection. CC has got titanium dioxide 9.0% and zinc oxide 6.3%. BareMinerals has titanium dioxide 6.2%. Both are hydrating, suitable for dry to normal skin. However, if your skin is peeling or flaky, they both will accentuate the dry patches. Gently exfoliate! They both look natural, don't oxidise, both make the skin glowy which can become shiny during the day (so keep a powder nearby), don't last for the whole day (which is fine, because I imagine you'd want to top up your spf during the day anyways).
Differences:
It Cosmetics CC Cream offers only 7 shades (mine is in Light), BareMinerals gel offers 16. CC cream is much thicker in texture, it looked most natural when applied with a makeup sponge or fingers. I could not build it to a full coverage because it is quite thick and would look cakey in real life. BareMinerals on the other hand is lightweight, spreads very easily and sheer. Applies well with fingers, especially if you want more than sheer coverage. BareMinerals layers better and doesn't cake so you can easily top up during the day. I also found that during a really hot day when I don't like layers upon layers of skincare and makeup (it will melt off my face anyways) I could wear BareMinerals just over a serum, it was that hydrating.
Packaging: It Cosmetics CC cream comes in a tube with a pump. In time the silver paint starts to come off and it's annoying and doesn't look great. BareMinerals comes in a squeezy tube.
Pricing: CC cream is £30 for 32ml and BareMinerals is £28 for 35ml. My guess is that I will go through BeraMinerals tube much faster due to its' sheerness.
Overall, both products are excellent at what they do. My skin tends to behave better during summer, it becomes less dry so I require less coverage. CC cream also feels a bit too thick for summertime, but I like its' almost protective thickness during winter. Do I need SPF50 while living in the UK? Probably not, but I don't really mind.
Have you tried any of these foundations? Did you like them or do you have a product that is so much better than these? I'm tempted to try Origins tinted moisturiser with SPF40 next. Let me know in the comments.
Skincare:
1. Omorovizca Moor Cream Cleanser. This is such a surprise for me. I got a generous 30 ml sample in my Liberty's beauty advent calendar and I was hooked. The price (£52 for 150ml) has kept me away from it for a while but I managed to get my hands on a couple of samples and I'm coming to the conclusion that I will have to purchase the full size. I love this creamy cleanser as a morning or second cleanse. It calms and soothes while the mud and minerals work magic on my spots and congestion. Whenever possible I leave it on as a mask for at least 5 minutes to get the full benefits.
2. Zelens Power A. Retinol with no irritation. Full review coming in a month or so.
3. Stratia Liquid Gold. This is my newest purchase but so far so good. I have ditched The Ordinary's NMF and Avene's Tolerance Extreme as soon as I got it. Review coming soon.
Makeup:
1. This will be old news in the ol' blogger vlogger insta world, but L'Oreal Paradise mascara. I've been playing around with Clinique's High Impact mascara for months and let me tell you, it had no impact at all. Paradise mascara is the total opposite - big long lashes within seconds.
2. Nars Blush in Orgasm. Now that the spring is here I'm all about this blush. Peachy pink with gold shimmer. Please don't be scared of shimmer in a blush. Applied high on the cheeks it doubles as a highlighter or just makes the cheeks look juicy. And healthy. I love this as an eyeshadow too!
3. Burts Bees pomegranate lip balm. Easy juicy comfortable lips.
Miscellaneous:
1. Our holiday in Porto, Portugal. Even though it rained cats and dogs the ENTIRE time we were there. The seafood, the wine, the views, the colours! I would love to come back when it's actually warm and sunny.
2. Leather converse. My feet stayed dry (nothing else did) and comfortable during the entire Portugal trip. And look, polka dots!
3. This embarassing but Dynasty on Netflix. The title is what sold it for me. Remember 80s Dynasty? I used to watch with gran when I was a kid. Oh so over the top, oh so the problems of the rich. Once a week, I love it.
Ingredients:
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Lauryl Laurate, Jojoba Esters, Cetyl Alcohol, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Butylene Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Disodium EDTA, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Hull Powder, Carbomer, Fragrance (Parfum), Sodium Dehydroacetate, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Trehalose, Tamarindus Indica Seed Polysaccharide, Tocopherol, Serenoa Serrulata Fruit Extract, Linalool, Citronellol, Myrothamnus Flabellifolia Leaf Extract, Disodium Phosphate, Caramel, Geraniol, Populus Nigra Bark/Bud/Leaf/Twig Extract, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citric Acid, Hydrolyzed Adansonia Digitata Extract.
It promises to adjust to your skin needs, to provide continuous hydration, to protect against environmental toxins. A variety of plant oils and extracts offers anti-oxidants, hydration and energy to the skin.
What I liked: Elemis Maximum Moisture Day Cream is one of those rather runny creams that are packed with hydration. Once applied the skin looks instantly plumped and 'juicy'. Glowy without feeling greasy. And it stays that way throughout the day. It's excellent under makeup. This reminds me a bit of January Labs Moisture Balancing Lotion, just with more oomph. And sadly with more fragrance :(
What I didn't like: Firstly, the fragrance. While very nice indeed, it is far too strong. And neither I nor my skin are particularly sensitive to smell/fragrance. Secondly, the packaging. The product comes out almost too easily out of the tube, almost always more than I needed. Also, once I thought the product was finished, I cut the tube in half and there was at least seven more applications there. The pump is always a way to go. This is a £40 moisturiser! Thirdly, the moisturiser separated in the tube. Not terribly and a good shake would always sort it out. But on a few occasions I did have clear oil coming out and the cream. Didn't particularly bother me, but it may bother some.
All in all, it's a nice moisturiser, especially for warmer weather, dehydrated skins and if you can get an offer (lookfantastic is excellent).
Somehow I've ended up with these cleansers in my rotation at the same time. Milky Jelly Cleanser (£15) was purchased on a whim the first day Glossier opened its online doors to the UK customers. And the Skin Laundry cleanser ( full size £20) I received in my Liberty Beauty Calendar a bit later.
While this selection may seem a bit random, actually these two cleansers are quite similar in a sense that they're both from American brands, they both promise a gentle cleanse, contain panthenol (vit B5) and don't contain parabens, mineral oil, SLS or fragrance.
They both have a very mild but pleasant smell, Milky Jelly smells lightly of rose water (2nd ingredient on the list) and SL Purifying cleanser smells of citrus (added orange peel and tangerine peel extracts)
The big difference between these two is that the Skin Laundry cleanser is slightly foaming. Nothing will work up a big lather and if you're removing it with a flannel you may not even notice that. This I guess is due to disodium cocoamphodiacetate which is derived from fatty acids found in coconut oil and is non-drying. Phew.
I have a small issue or two with both of the cleansers.
Firstly, I would never call Skin Laundry cleanser a cream. It's not. Cream cleansers are Pixi + CH Double Cleanse cream part or Ren or Liz Earle Hot Cloth Cleanser or even Omorovizca's Moor Cream Cleanser.
Secondly, Milky Jelly Cleanser. I wouldn't attempt to wash my face JUST with this if you're got sunscreen, primer and foundation piled on. I just didn't find it THAT cleansing. It struggled with my It Cosmetics CC Cream or my Clinique non-waterproof mascara. Double cleansing is always a better idea.
Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser ingredients:
Water/Aqua/Eau, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Propanediol, Isohexadecane, Poloxamer 184, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Xylitylglucoside, Betaine, Allantoin, Glycerin, Panthenol, Symphytum Officinale Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Anhydroxylitol, Polysorbate 80, Xylitol, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Isopropyl Myristate, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide
Skin Laundry Purifying Cream Cleanser ingredients:
Water (Aqua/Eau), Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Acrylates Copolymer, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Limnanthes alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Sodium Chloride,
Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hexylene Glycol, Aloe barbadensis Leaf Juice, Macadamia ternifolia Seed Oil, Aminomethyl Propanol, Panthenol,Carbomer, d-Limonene, Citrus aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract, Citrus tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Extract
Both ingredient lists seem okay to me (I'm no expert, I just google them), however if you're particularly dry or sensitized , I wouldn't go for either of them. For me personally, Skin Laundry cleanser actually feels less drying and I enjoy using it more. With Glossier, I will stick to their makeup, which is awesome.
January empties. It's a big one this time.
1. Pixi Glow Mud Cleanser. This is one my most repurchased items ever and I'm not sick of it yet. I don't have a stash of this hidden away, but I typically miss it pretty quickly after I finish it. I like it when my skin feels congested and I enjoy using it as a mini face mask keeping it on while I brush my teeth or even take a shower. It's got glycolic acid in it, so I wouldn't follow up with an acid toner or use it if my skin is feeling irritated. Repurchase guaranteed.
2. Omorovizca Moor Cream Cleanser. I wanted to not like this purely for it's price. It's expensive for a cleanser. But this is one clever cleanser. When I had a dry, irritated and angry skin that was breaking out of nowhere, this was one of the products that made it more balanced, soothed and clear. It's got mud, minerals such as zinc and magnesium in it. It has also got a rather strong smell of muddy camphor, peppermint and menthol, so may not be for everyone. I wish it had a pump and it should have a pump for the price we're paying but I'm not an expert, perhaps there's a reason for it not having it. I may repurchase this.
3. Ren Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask. This has lasted me a long time because I only used it sporadically. I don't know why, I think I just had a lot of acids on rotation. It's nice, not too strong so would be good for an acid-newbie. The smell was not particularly pleasant - like sour fruit and that smell that lactic acid has. I got this more than a year ago for a really good price, so if you want to try this, watch out for the deals.
4. QMS Medicosmetics Travel Size Activator Mask. A hydrating, refreshing hialuronic sheet mask. The sheet didn't fit my face comfortably - but then I do have long nose and most masks don't fit me properly. The skin felt nice afterwards but it's not repurchase-worthy for me.
5. La Roche Posay Cicaplast Levres lip balm. i had this little tube for quite a few years. It's very good. Nourishing, soothing, not too shiny, not fragranced. May be repurchased.
6. Tresemme heat defence travel size spray. It's been here before, it will be here again. Just a basic heat protection.
7. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%. This is a clever little thing, especially great for dry skins. Lactic acid is already quite mild and it's also a humectant. Combined with hialuronic acid, it offers a nice combo of mild exfoliation and hydration. It also contains Tasmanian Pepperberry (hence the pink tinge) which reduces irritation. May be repurchased.
8. Dr Sebagh Serum Repair. I don't know. I wasn't wowed. The immediate lifting and tightening effect (that lasts until you put moisturiser on) can be provided by much cheaper serums and I actually do not enjoy that effect, this may be different to those with more mature skins. It's got hialuronic acid, collagen and patented peptide that provide anti-ageing benefits. Like with most peptide and collagen boosting serums, the effects are never immediate so I cannot comment on that. It's expensive (£69 for 20ml) and the screw cap somehow broke. Will not be repurchased.
9. Soap and Glory Sugar Crush Body scrub. I like the smell, give me all the limes and sugar. But as a body scrub, I'd rather use an exfoliating glove as it did bugger-all to my skin.
January or haul or what I bought this month. New year, new monthly feature! I'm hoping to do this every month, showing and talking about mainly style and beauty things I bought for myself in a month. I may feature home decor or entertainment bits in here from time to time.
So this month I was a bit spendy in the fashion department. Beige knitted dress and midnight blue jacket (on sale) from Zara.
Zelens Power A was purchased with 20% off from lookfantastic. So far, I'm loving it.
Gianvito Rossi kitten heel slingbacks were 60% off from Browns. I may return the heels since I was on the lookout for nude/ tan shoes. These are too light and too pink and the minimalist in me is afraid that they will not get worn enough to justify keeping them. The shoe lover in me says screw it, they're gorgeous.
What do you think? Do you buy shoes just because they're pretty? What did you buy this month?
This has got to be my favourite serum at the moment! Argireline Solution 10% by the Ordinary is a lightweight peptide serum that is supposed to target dynamic wrinkles. The website advises to apply this on forehead and around eyes, I typically apply this liberally and all over, AM and PM.
Usually I don't like serums that are too watery. For example, I didn't like NIOD's MMHC serum, because it would sink in faster than water and my skin would not feel comforted by it, it felt a bit tight.
This being a peptide serum, I also expected it to be slightly sticky, just like The Buffet. It is not. Argeriline is super lightweight and water-like, sinks in quickly, but feels hydrating and plumping.
I see a noticeable difference with the fine lines under my eyes that started appearing this winter when I was super dry. It layers well with other serums and creams, and sits well under makeup. It's pleasant to use.
I'm looking at this online now and it says that it is not available for shipment in my area due to EU regulations. What?! How was I able to purchase it last time then? And more importantly, why?! I only have a third of it left!
Go, grab it if you can!
20/01 EDIT: Argireline Solution 10% is back in stock and available to purchase in EU.
Hello! Apologies for being MIA, again, but November and December have been crazy busy, all I could do was to post sporadically on instagram (@beautycnr).
So this blog post is a review of my personal beauty favourites. They're not necessarily the ones I discovered in 2017, but the ones I enjoyed in 2017 the most.
Let's get started with skincare!
First cleanse: Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm, hands down. This a very old favourite and so far nothing has come close. It easily melts the makeup off, the smell is ah-mazing, you can use it as second cleanse. I love using it as a mask in winter when my skin feels dry and irritated.
Second cleanse: For a second cleanse I seem to be enjoying non drying clay cleansers the most. Such as Pixi Glow Mud Cleanser (with glycolic acid) and Omorovicza's Moor Cream Cleanser which is a recent discovery and I am curious to try more from the brand (my poor poor wallet!)
Mask/Treatment: Alpha H Gentle Daily Exfoliant. It's a gentle enzyme powder that you mix with water to make a paste and apply on the face for 1 minute. Lovely.
Acid: This year I've been mostly into serum acids but I'm starting to get a feeling that acid toners are easier to use. Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peels are fab ( I wouldn't dare use them every day though). The Ordinary's Lactic 5% + HA 2% is lovely and I've also enjoyed The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% as a targeted area or spot treatment. Next year I want to try mandelic acid (A particular one from Wishtrend which is a nightmare to get in the UK).
Toner: Indie Lee CoQ 10 Toner. Soothing, plumping, hydrating toner that smells sooo good. It was perfect for summer. I miss it. I would use it as an essence, patted straight onto the skin, no cotton pad.
Serum: Hiauronic: good ol' Indeed Labs Hydraluron. vit C: The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% - I'm enjoying the texture of this. Not too runny, skin doesn't feel tight. And it really brightens dull skin.
Oil: Now this is more a serum and oil hybrid but Zelens Power D treatment drops are amazing and I will definitely repurchase it. It's just soo good. Fortifying, soothing. As soon as you apply it, the skin sighs and says thank you by glowing. This is so lightweight, sinks in super quickly, can be mixed in with your moisturiser. I can use it in the morning and makeup sits well on top. The only negatives are: high price and it expires after 6 months. But the quality, the effect... Show me anything cheaper that does the same, I challenge you. I think I will strategically purchase this next autumn so I can use it during colder months when my skin is not happy.
Eye cream: I hate that it's so expensive but nothing was remotely close to Tata Harper Restorative Eye Creme. Beautiful balanced texture, sunk in well, not sticky, eye area felt moisturised. I have a few on my wish list to try and if they don't work out, I will return to this.
Moisturiser: I don't have a strong favourite in this section. I liked: The Ordinary's NMF, January Labs Moisture Balancing Lotion, most Ren moisturisers, Dr Jart Ceramidin, Elemis Maximum Moisture Day Cream and most recently Avene Tolerance Extreme Cream. I wouldn't spend more than £30 on a moisturiser, this year I got a feeling that it's just not worth it. Keep your pennies for a good serum!
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Sunscreen: Clinique Super City Block SPF40 or It Cosmetics CC cream with SPF50.
Shampoo: Kiehls Amino Acid Shampoo.
Styling product: Kiehls Silk Groom
Foundation: It Cosmetics CC Cream. It took me a few tries to figure out how to get the best results with it, I like applying it with my fingers or with makeup sponge. The coverage is very good, you can make it quite sheer or add and extra layer on problem areas. It feels moisturising. This is best for normal to dry skins that want the glow.
Mascara: It may still be Benefit Roller Lash.
Brows: I don't do much with my brows but it's Glossier Boy Brow in Blond.
Eye Shadows: Charlotte Tilbury Palette in Sophisticate. I'm boring like that. But the quality is truly excellent.
Eye Liner: Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner.
Blush: Pixi Multibalm in Wild Rose (apply with fingers) and a a mini Nars in Orgasm.
Lip balm: good old Burt's Bees. And La Roche Posay Cicaplast
Lipstick: ooh difficult. Probably Glossier Generation G in Zip because it's so easy to use. I miss Revlon's Lip Butters :(
Perfume: Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady.
Aand that's all folks! Have a lovely festive season :)
September empties:
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm - Nice, smooth, does the job. Good value for money. But offers no thrills or joy in using it. This will most likely be repurchased, but I much prefer Emma Hardie cleansing balm. That one smells like heaven.
Studio 10 Primer - not an empty, I just didn't use this up within a year so it's time for it to go. This is very silicone heavy.
Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum foundation in 52 Vanilla - my favourite high street foundation for dry to normal skin. Moisturising, light, leaves the skin glowy. Light coverage and natural looking. Doesn't stay on for the whole day but that's fine with me.
Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo - SLS free, smells lightly of coconuts, my hair seems to love it. Repurchased already.
Tata Harper Restorative Eye Creme - lovely. Light, creamy texture, botanical/ herbal smell reminds me of Dr Hauschka skincare. Lasted me for about 4 months, used twice a day. Expensive, but repurchase worthy.
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Univeral Daily Peel - This is the strongest acid treatment I have used so far. It's actually a blend of five AHA and BHA acids.You will definitely feel a strong tingling which subsides once you apply the second pad. Ah-mazing. Again, expensive, but was using this as a treat once in a blue moon and not daily. Repurchase worthy, but not yet because I have a gazillion of other acids to go through.
Hydraluron - oldie but goodie. Hydrating serum with hialuronic acid. I like that's in the tube, I like that it's more goopy than other almost liquidy serums.
October empties:
Korres Basil and Lemon shower gel - didn't like the smell. Others smell soo much nicer, especiall Japanese Rose one.
Tresseme heat protection styling spray - great value for money. Repurchased already.
Vichy water-proof makeup remover - didn't like it very much. Too oily and stung my eyes.
Ren Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream - like most of Ren moisturisers, I really liked it.
Emma Hardie vit C intense daily serum - this only has got 2% of vit C in it so it's hardly intense. Second ingredient on it's list is niacinamide so together with vit C it has a brightening effect. This has a tendency to ball up so one has to wait until it's fully sunk in (which it does quite quickly) and then apply a moisturiser. I quite liked it, but I don't think it's worth it's full price (£49) I myself got it last boxing day in M&S. I believe it was less than £20 for a gift set which also had a full size of vit C cream, mini moringa and mini facial oil. So watch out for those deals.
Emma Hardie Moringa cleansing balm - I like the small 50ml pots, so I always repurchase the trio of these. This is my holy grail, favourite balm cleanser EVER. I will always come back to it as long as they make it. Takes the makeup off well. I can also do a second cleanse with it. I leave it on my skin for longer as a softening nourishing mask. Smells great. Yeah. Love it. My husband loves using it too!
Nip + Fab glycolic fix pads - These were sent to me by Glamour Beauty Club. I've tried the extreme night time ones before. They're both okay. Nice convenient packaging.
aaand I tried some eye cream samples. Samples are great for eye creams, you only need a tiny bit, so they last for a good week. Both Kiehl's Midnight Recovery and Dr Barbara Sturm were nice and creamy but not too heavy. I don't think I will purchase the full sizes. I'm on the lookout for something really great. Zelens perhaps?
Glossier finally started shipping to the UK. They're actually shipping not from the US, but from a UK warehouse so we don't have to pay loads for shipping or taxes. Great!
For a long time I wasn't particularly wowed by the brand. I liked the packaging and the reviews from bloggers who tried it but I didn't see anything that really interested me. So when I made a purchase on the very first day Glossier launched in the UK I even suprised myself. I think it had to do with a great website, an avalanche of reviews from the British bloggers and an affordable pricing. I was especially tempted by Glossier Phase 2 set where you can save some money by purchasing three items (Boy Brow, Stretch Concealer and G Generation lipstick) and you can also choose the colours you want.
I also got the Milky Jelly Cleanser. Probably because it was mentioned by everyone and their aunt. Seriously. I mostly blame Anna, Lily and Caroline.
Now that I have used these items for a few weeks I feel like I can give an honest review and not just first impressions.
Milky Jelly Cleanser
This is a very basic simple cleanser. It has a gel like consistency and a very light floral/botanical scent. No fragrance added. It does not foam, feels quite hydrating but it will not take your makeup off. Second cleanse only.
It kind of does what it says on the tin. Cleanser 'conditions' the skin as in after washing it off the skin feels more soft and plump. For super dry skins however I would stick with an oil cleanser. While this is kind of hydrating, it's not nourishing enough.
It's good. I'm not sure if I would repurchase it again but I will definitely use it up.
Ingredients:
Water/Aqua/Eau, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Propanediol, Isohexadecane, Poloxamer 184, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Xylitylglucoside, Betaine, Allantoin, Glycerin, Panthenol, Symphytum Officinale Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Anhydroxylitol, Polysorbate 80, Xylitol, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Isopropyl Myristate, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide
Boy Brow
I had my doubts about this because I'm not really into brows. Or not into daily brow care/make up. They were never overplucked and I like their natural shape. They're just a tad light. So i got the colour blond. It is slightly darker than my natural colour and I like it. The formula feels a bit waxy but doesn't harden too much. Looks very natural. I kind of wish the brush was finer but that's just me being picky. I enjoy using it and have been using it almost every day since I bought it.
Stretch Concealer
I was curious to try this because I'm very much into concealer that can be used for under eye area and do not crease. I got it in colour medium since I've been on holidays and tanned a bit and it is a good match. If you're a match to Bourjois foundation in 52 vanilla or IT cosmetics CC cream in light, get the medium. If you're fairer, get light. The concealer has an interesting consistency of a balm and it leaves the skin quite dewy. It offers light coverage that is not the most long wearing, but it looks natural and you can always top it up. It will not cover spots or dark pigmentation. For that I would go for Nars concealers. But those can end up looking cakey, especially if the skin underneath is dry and cracked (as it often is with spots)
So yes, I like it. But I do like the Maybelline Age Rewind one for under eyes too. The Glossier one probably has more skin care benefits. Probably.
Generation G lipstick in Zip
I wanted an easy to wear red lipstick. I lost my Revlon lip butter, gave away Charlotte Tilbury's mini in So Marilyn and was left with limited edition MAC in Leading Lady Red. That one is a mother to put on and keep on the lips. It looks great and I love the colour but it's high maintenance.
Generation G in Zip is again exactly what it says on the tin. It is sheer but easily buildable, matte but rather comfortable on the lips. The narrow bullet makes the application super easy. Perfect.
All in all, I am very happy with my purchases and I will be making more. Probably not the skincare, but the effortless makeup is very much my cup of tea.
Oh, and the perfume is lovely too! Very fresh, light and... effortless.
For a long time I wasn't particularly wowed by the brand. I liked the packaging and the reviews from bloggers who tried it but I didn't see anything that really interested me. So when I made a purchase on the very first day Glossier launched in the UK I even suprised myself. I think it had to do with a great website, an avalanche of reviews from the British bloggers and an affordable pricing. I was especially tempted by Glossier Phase 2 set where you can save some money by purchasing three items (Boy Brow, Stretch Concealer and G Generation lipstick) and you can also choose the colours you want.
I also got the Milky Jelly Cleanser. Probably because it was mentioned by everyone and their aunt. Seriously. I mostly blame Anna, Lily and Caroline.
Now that I have used these items for a few weeks I feel like I can give an honest review and not just first impressions.
Milky Jelly Cleanser
This is a very basic simple cleanser. It has a gel like consistency and a very light floral/botanical scent. No fragrance added. It does not foam, feels quite hydrating but it will not take your makeup off. Second cleanse only.
It kind of does what it says on the tin. Cleanser 'conditions' the skin as in after washing it off the skin feels more soft and plump. For super dry skins however I would stick with an oil cleanser. While this is kind of hydrating, it's not nourishing enough.
It's good. I'm not sure if I would repurchase it again but I will definitely use it up.
Ingredients:
Water/Aqua/Eau, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Propanediol, Isohexadecane, Poloxamer 184, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Xylitylglucoside, Betaine, Allantoin, Glycerin, Panthenol, Symphytum Officinale Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Anhydroxylitol, Polysorbate 80, Xylitol, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Isopropyl Myristate, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide
Boy Brow
I had my doubts about this because I'm not really into brows. Or not into daily brow care/make up. They were never overplucked and I like their natural shape. They're just a tad light. So i got the colour blond. It is slightly darker than my natural colour and I like it. The formula feels a bit waxy but doesn't harden too much. Looks very natural. I kind of wish the brush was finer but that's just me being picky. I enjoy using it and have been using it almost every day since I bought it.
Stretch Concealer
I was curious to try this because I'm very much into concealer that can be used for under eye area and do not crease. I got it in colour medium since I've been on holidays and tanned a bit and it is a good match. If you're a match to Bourjois foundation in 52 vanilla or IT cosmetics CC cream in light, get the medium. If you're fairer, get light. The concealer has an interesting consistency of a balm and it leaves the skin quite dewy. It offers light coverage that is not the most long wearing, but it looks natural and you can always top it up. It will not cover spots or dark pigmentation. For that I would go for Nars concealers. But those can end up looking cakey, especially if the skin underneath is dry and cracked (as it often is with spots)
So yes, I like it. But I do like the Maybelline Age Rewind one for under eyes too. The Glossier one probably has more skin care benefits. Probably.
Generation G lipstick in Zip
I wanted an easy to wear red lipstick. I lost my Revlon lip butter, gave away Charlotte Tilbury's mini in So Marilyn and was left with limited edition MAC in Leading Lady Red. That one is a mother to put on and keep on the lips. It looks great and I love the colour but it's high maintenance.
Generation G in Zip is again exactly what it says on the tin. It is sheer but easily buildable, matte but rather comfortable on the lips. The narrow bullet makes the application super easy. Perfect.
All in all, I am very happy with my purchases and I will be making more. Probably not the skincare, but the effortless makeup is very much my cup of tea.
Oh, and the perfume is lovely too! Very fresh, light and... effortless.
What it does: I found it easiest to apply this CC cream with my fingers (yet to try it with a beauty blender). It offers a dewy medium to full coverage, protects from the sun and is feels rich and hydrating. I find that I need to powder and/or use blotting sheets after a few hours. It would probably last longer with a primer but that's just too much faff for me. It is not really long wearing but easy to reapply and blend and that's okay with me. It is not for oily skin or those who enjoy a matte finish. Feels hydrating. Upon application the cream may seem ashy but it quickly adjusts to the skin colour. This is probably due to the physical sunscreen.
Is it worth it: For me, yes. I enjoy a dewy finish, the skin benefits. The sunscreen is great too. I apply it right under my eyes and most days I don't need a concealer. It doesn't crease (if applied lightly). This would be perfect for mature and dry skins.
It Cosmetics CC cream is £30.00 for 32ml and is available at selfridges.com
I've been meaning to write a review on this for ages (or a few months at least).
What it is: Zelens Power D is a super lightweight oil or oil based serum that sinks into the skin very quickly. It is full of goodness: peptides, lipids, hialuronic acid, omega 3 and 6.To read more about the ingredients, the science behind them and what they do for the skin visit zelens.com
What it does: For me personally, it sinks in either instantly or very quickly (I have dry to normal, dehydrated skin). It gives a nice healthy glow, instantly plumps up the skin. Power D is meant to fortify and thicken the skin making it less susceptable to outside aggressors. For day time you can mix it in with your moisturiser, for night time I found that I preferred to put this oil straight on my cleansed skin and then add a moisturiser on the top if needed. It is also lovely on top of The Ordinary's Advanced Retinoid 2% or after a stronger acid peel. I found this to be great for spots, it would make them less irritated and red and I found them to heal faster too.
Is it worth it: Zelens is a holy grail brand among skincare addicts and it is so for a reason. The product is very expensive, but the quality is there, it delivers results. This oil will last me about 6 months because I don't use it every day.
If you have skin that is or gets in any way compromised, for example, is irritable, dry, red, flaking, itchy, tight and/or ageing... this would be an amazing product to try. If you have the cash.
Zelens Power D is £110 for 30ml and is available on zelens.com , cultbeauty.co.uk , beautybay.com , selfridges.com (pumpkin not included).
Summer always seems to be a quiet time for beauty industry and my wallet certainly was grateful for it since I spent the big £££ on CH +CultBeauty box in May and then I would just pick up a few pieces throughout the summer where and when needed. I was also a bit more into clothing, especially shoe shopping :)
From top to bottom, left to right: 1. Red Funday Print Long Sleeve Jumper, New Look (totally youtube inspired purchase) 2. Denim Shrunken Jacket, Asos. 3. Adina Casual Pocket Skirt, Whistles. 4. Chuck Taylor Leather Polka Dot Shoes, Converse 5. Clarks Colindale Silver Boots (sold out, sorry).
And my top 5 beauty pick this summer were:
1. Zelens Power D. Review coming this month, this will be perfect for upcoming colder months because it's a nourishing protecting strengthening lightweight facial oil/
2. Indie Lee Co Q 10 Lotion. Review here
3. Clinique Super City Block SPF40
4. Mac lipstick in Vegas Volt (discontinued, sorry!)
5. Pur Volume Vixen Mascara (love the travel mini sized one)
Long time no see! I've been busy enjoying the last bits of summer while they lasted and then was slammed with work right after. Not complaining, but I have missed blogging!
Anyways, let's get to it.
Anyways, let's get to it.
L'Oreal Elive Colour Protect Low Shampoo - this love affair has ended badly. While gentle and nourishing this shampoo does not wash out dry shampoo properly and my hair gets greasy faster. I will not repurchase these. I am currently using Khiel's Amino Acid Shampoo which is great.
So I recently experienced a massive (hormonal?) breakout. Actually, it's only massive for me, my skin is typically well behaved. And even a few weeks later it feels congested with bumps along the jaw line. I am slowly and gently bringing it back to normal. If it wasn't hormonal, it could have been either Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion or Ren's Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk. Clinique's DDML I have only used a couple of times on my skin. I was aware of the not-so-great ingredients list and the smell was funny (plastic? petrol?) but the texture seemed very pleasant. Soon I realised I didn't want to risk using it and used it on my legs instead which was fine. Could two applications have clogged my skin and caused the breakout? Not sure. Especially since my skin didn't seem to react badly to it straightaway.
Could it have been Ren's Cleansing Milk? I am a big fan of Ren skincare, especially moisturisers. This cleansing cream didn't sit very well with me. It smelled great and felt very nourishing but even after using a face cloth my skin felt... not particularly clean. By no means am I a fan of squeaky clean skin, but it just felt like there was some residue left. Perhaps it was shea butter that's quite high on their ingredients list. Needless to say, I will not repurchase.
Ren's Anti-Redness serum didn't do anything except offer slight hydration. But I am not really suffering from a lot of redness. I could smell alcohol in it.
Nails Inc cuticle oil stick was lovely and I would repurchase.
Balance Me Radiance Facial Oil - full review here. I would use it happily but probably will never repurchase because there are better oils. And so many new ones to try.
Clinique Moisture Surge - such a great and pleasant texture. Hydrating. I may purchase a full jar...
Emma Hardie Moisture Boost Vit C Cream - this is a very thick cream, probably due to niacinamide. Pleasant, nourishing, brightening and didn't oxidize. It wasn't a great pick on my part for summer ut it would be great as a night cream during winter. Again, I would happily use it but wouldn't necessarily repurchase.
And finally, my favourite empty of this month was Nude Progenius Omega Treatment Milk - alas only a sample, but I am planning on purchasing this. I looved the light and milky texture yet it was super hydrating and nourishing. Just perfect. My skin looked amazing as soon as it was applied. I want to try more products from this brand.
That's it folks, thank you for reading, I will be back with summer faves next and then a few good ol' product reviews.
So. Much. Stuff. In the beginning of the month I thought I wasn't going to finish anything. Surprised myself quite a bit.
Let's jump right in...
CoLab Dry Shampoo Active - probably my favourite spray dry shampoo. Invisible, smells fresh and not overpowering. I go through a can very quickly, that's probably the only negative.
Toni&Guy Intense Softness Shampoo for normal hair - I should have known better. This was a random purchase. I just grabbed this in a supermarket without thinking, and really, I should have. Contains SLS and something else that has made my hair dry and coarse. My scalp became irritated. Yikes. Never again.
Korres Japanese Rose Shower Gel - if you like rose smell, you will love this. Beautiful fragrance. Otherwise, nothing special.
TRESemme Extra Hold Hairspray - I had this small can for years and finally finished it. It's good. I've been curling my hair more often so it was useful.
Philip Kingsley Daily Damage Defense - favourite, will be repurchased. Makes my hair soft, doesn't weigh it down, smells nice, protects from the heat.
January Labs Balancing Moisture Lotion - it was lovely during the heatwave and if I felt like I needed something a bit more nourishing, I would just add a couple of drops of oil (Zelens Power D, I love thee). Husband liked this too.
Ren Flash Hydra-Boost Emulsion - this has lasted me for a really long time! I think I got bored of it for a while, forgot about it and then rediscovered it. Lovely when used in the morning as it hydrates and plumps up the skin but also feels light. This would feel lovely on mature skin.
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel - still got 3 packs left. This is a nice treat. The skin feels smoother and brighter straight away.
Alpha H Absolute Eye Complex - I like the ingredients in this a lot (niacinamide, sodium hialuronate, matryxil 6) and it works at hydrating but I don't really like the texture, it's a tad sticky (possibly because of the niacinamide). A little goes a long way.
Clinique Pep-Start Exfoliating Cleanser - I got a sample of this with purchase. I assumed it was an acid or enzyme cleanser and was disappointed to find that it had bits in it. I still have no idea whats in it because ingredients are not listed on my sample and I can't find them on clinique website. It says that it's gentle enough to use twice a day. Uhm, no. It's got bits in and it lathers. Worked a treat on my legs though.
And finally, makeup that got old: Nars creamy concealer (good), Bourjois blush (it's alright) and MUA cream bronzer (too orange, too dark, can't remember where I got this from, I certainly did not purchase this?).
Let's jump right in...
CoLab Dry Shampoo Active - probably my favourite spray dry shampoo. Invisible, smells fresh and not overpowering. I go through a can very quickly, that's probably the only negative.
Toni&Guy Intense Softness Shampoo for normal hair - I should have known better. This was a random purchase. I just grabbed this in a supermarket without thinking, and really, I should have. Contains SLS and something else that has made my hair dry and coarse. My scalp became irritated. Yikes. Never again.
Korres Japanese Rose Shower Gel - if you like rose smell, you will love this. Beautiful fragrance. Otherwise, nothing special.
TRESemme Extra Hold Hairspray - I had this small can for years and finally finished it. It's good. I've been curling my hair more often so it was useful.
Philip Kingsley Daily Damage Defense - favourite, will be repurchased. Makes my hair soft, doesn't weigh it down, smells nice, protects from the heat.
January Labs Balancing Moisture Lotion - it was lovely during the heatwave and if I felt like I needed something a bit more nourishing, I would just add a couple of drops of oil (Zelens Power D, I love thee). Husband liked this too.
Ren Flash Hydra-Boost Emulsion - this has lasted me for a really long time! I think I got bored of it for a while, forgot about it and then rediscovered it. Lovely when used in the morning as it hydrates and plumps up the skin but also feels light. This would feel lovely on mature skin.
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel - still got 3 packs left. This is a nice treat. The skin feels smoother and brighter straight away.
Alpha H Absolute Eye Complex - I like the ingredients in this a lot (niacinamide, sodium hialuronate, matryxil 6) and it works at hydrating but I don't really like the texture, it's a tad sticky (possibly because of the niacinamide). A little goes a long way.
Clinique Pep-Start Exfoliating Cleanser - I got a sample of this with purchase. I assumed it was an acid or enzyme cleanser and was disappointed to find that it had bits in it. I still have no idea whats in it because ingredients are not listed on my sample and I can't find them on clinique website. It says that it's gentle enough to use twice a day. Uhm, no. It's got bits in and it lathers. Worked a treat on my legs though.
And finally, makeup that got old: Nars creamy concealer (good), Bourjois blush (it's alright) and MUA cream bronzer (too orange, too dark, can't remember where I got this from, I certainly did not purchase this?).
I've had this feeling for a while that it might be time for me to purchase a new eye shadow palette.
It probably has to do with the fact that the beauty market has been exploding with various palettes this year.
I've been oohing and aahing but could not make up my mind for the longest time.
When it comes to make-up and especially eye shadows, I am quite minimalistic, I don't feel the need to use eye shadows everyday. For the past two years the only eyeshadows I have used was Charlotte Tilbury's eye shadow quad in Sophisticate. It had a nice brightening your-skin-but-better shade, a slightly darker beige one for the crease, warmer dark brown for smoky eye and a matte grey brown which was the perfect colour for my eyebrows!
Nearly two years later, I have used up the lightest colour and I still haven't reached the pan on all the other ones. Now that I'm writing this, I'm wondering why have I even decided that I need a new palette... I could have just purchased a singular pale cream colour and been done with it... Oh, but the heart wants what it wants. *shrugs*
I have decided to go for a high end brand rather than high street. I am sure that high street offers some amazing quality eye shadows but call me what you want, I enjoy a pretty design and packaging.
I've looked at most of the brands...
Charlotte Tibury: The Dolce Vita and The Golden Goddess looked nice and so did the face palettes, but I felt like it was time for a larger palette. And non Charlotte Tilbury for once.
Same goes to Chanel/ Dior/ Tom Ford. That said, I was lusting big time after Tom Ford's Honeymoon and Nude Dip palettes... But £64 for four colours. Yowza!
Violet Voss/ Morphe Brushes: The palettes are too big. I don't need that many colours.
Anastasia Beverly Hills: Modern Renaissance. This is probably great since everyone and their mother has one, but I wasn't attracted to the colours, especially the hot pink and red one.
Zoeva: Some great colour combinations and great value for money. Not surprisingly however the packaging is cheap and since I'm intending to use my palette for a couple of years, I doubt it would last or stay looking presentable for a long time.
Urban Decay: the heat palette seems a tad too warm for my liking and I'm kind of over the Naked palettes.
MAC: I heard the palettes are not of the best quality... They might have suited me OK since I am not a professional, but the packaging didn't look great either.
Stilla/Smashbox and Tarte came close to being picked but then I stumbled across the new-ish Nars Loaded Palette in Strike it Rich and I knew I've found THE ONE. It has both mattes and shimmers, plenty of light colours, warm browns, interesting gold, reddish bronze... For me, it seems to have it all and more. Quite an upgrade from the quad of mattes I've been using even though I still think CT quad in The Sophisticate is a great basic.
Nars palette is not cheap, it's £55 but it offers 12 colours and a nice sturdy packaging with huge mirror. I took my time to check all the retailers and decided to purchase from Space NK because they had free shipping, best samples and let me use two voucher codes to add two additional luxury sized samples (Lancer and Vita Liberata), score!
It probably has to do with the fact that the beauty market has been exploding with various palettes this year.
I've been oohing and aahing but could not make up my mind for the longest time.
When it comes to make-up and especially eye shadows, I am quite minimalistic, I don't feel the need to use eye shadows everyday. For the past two years the only eyeshadows I have used was Charlotte Tilbury's eye shadow quad in Sophisticate. It had a nice brightening your-skin-but-better shade, a slightly darker beige one for the crease, warmer dark brown for smoky eye and a matte grey brown which was the perfect colour for my eyebrows!
Nearly two years later, I have used up the lightest colour and I still haven't reached the pan on all the other ones. Now that I'm writing this, I'm wondering why have I even decided that I need a new palette... I could have just purchased a singular pale cream colour and been done with it... Oh, but the heart wants what it wants. *shrugs*
I have decided to go for a high end brand rather than high street. I am sure that high street offers some amazing quality eye shadows but call me what you want, I enjoy a pretty design and packaging.
I've looked at most of the brands...
Charlotte Tibury: The Dolce Vita and The Golden Goddess looked nice and so did the face palettes, but I felt like it was time for a larger palette. And non Charlotte Tilbury for once.
Same goes to Chanel/ Dior/ Tom Ford. That said, I was lusting big time after Tom Ford's Honeymoon and Nude Dip palettes... But £64 for four colours. Yowza!
Violet Voss/ Morphe Brushes: The palettes are too big. I don't need that many colours.
Anastasia Beverly Hills: Modern Renaissance. This is probably great since everyone and their mother has one, but I wasn't attracted to the colours, especially the hot pink and red one.
Zoeva: Some great colour combinations and great value for money. Not surprisingly however the packaging is cheap and since I'm intending to use my palette for a couple of years, I doubt it would last or stay looking presentable for a long time.
Urban Decay: the heat palette seems a tad too warm for my liking and I'm kind of over the Naked palettes.
MAC: I heard the palettes are not of the best quality... They might have suited me OK since I am not a professional, but the packaging didn't look great either.
Stilla/Smashbox and Tarte came close to being picked but then I stumbled across the new-ish Nars Loaded Palette in Strike it Rich and I knew I've found THE ONE. It has both mattes and shimmers, plenty of light colours, warm browns, interesting gold, reddish bronze... For me, it seems to have it all and more. Quite an upgrade from the quad of mattes I've been using even though I still think CT quad in The Sophisticate is a great basic.
Nars palette is not cheap, it's £55 but it offers 12 colours and a nice sturdy packaging with huge mirror. I took my time to check all the retailers and decided to purchase from Space NK because they had free shipping, best samples and let me use two voucher codes to add two additional luxury sized samples (Lancer and Vita Liberata), score!
I've had this palette for a few days now and I'm really happy with it. There's so many looks to try!
What's your favourite palette?
I think when most people hear the word retinol or retinoid, they either don't know what that is or they immediately think "major extreme harsh anti-ageing skin treatment". It's true with the prescription creams. However, there seems to be trend happening at the moment where major skincare brands are looking into making the vitamin A products as mild and non-irritating as possible while still delivering the results.
Human psychology is a funny thing though. I had a friend saying that she didn't like the Ordinary because she felt that it didn't do anything. I kind of felt the same thing about The Ordinary's The Buffet serum because there was no immediate effect. So how do we know that it works? With harsh retinoid products we see peeling and irritation and then the skin seems really great which is exciting and obviously we see the reaction which means it's working. With gentle retinoids there is no reaction, the skin looks alright all the time.
That's how I felt when I started using The Ordinary retinoid serum. I would use it every other night, avoiding using acids at the same time and would apply calming face oil afterwards. And it was alright, the serum was of pleasant milky consistency and my skin felt comfortable and slightly glowy right after the application. No irritation, redness or peeling at all.
I decided to use this serum every night for a week just to see if I notice any difference. And actually, I did. My skin is dryish-dehydrated but also prone to congestion, so I tend to use acids a lot to help with it. In the week of my retinoid use, I avoided using acids which usually help me with congestion. Still, I would always wake up with a smooth skin and by the end of the week I that my skin texture changed slightly and got smoother. I had zero spots the whole week. This is not atypical but I do get a spot from time to time.
Anti-ageing properties? Probably there are some. Try it for yourself with no fear and see. It's only £8.00. No cream will help deep wrinkles but continuous use may help to prevent some. Make sure to wear sunscreen!
All in all, I enjoyed using The Ordinary's Advanced 2% Retinoid and will continue using it. Seeing as this is the first retinoid product I have used, I will be interested to try some others and compare. But I will be sticking to the gentle ones.
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