Hydrating Skincare: From Winter to Spring

The weather may be getting warmer, and the evenings longer and lighter, but that doesn't always mean you can slack off on the skincare front. In fact, a sudden change in the climate, and weather that can't make up its mind can wreak havoc on the skin, making it more important than ever to ensure that it's taken care of.

When it comes to hydration, I have a few trusty favourites that I know I can reach for whatever the time of year, and they will always get things sorted in no time. A common mistake a lot of people make is to think that if they haven't got any dry or flaky patches, then their skin is not dehydrated, but actually, this is a long way from the truth in many cases. Personally, I don't tend to suffer from the former, but I'd definitely put a tick in the latter box from time to time. Usual triggers for me are leaving makeup on for too long or skipping on exfoliation (I tend to use AHA toners rather than manual scrubs), but often, an unstable climate is to blame.

The Elemental Herbology Cell Food Serum* is a favourite of mine when I feel that my skin could do with a boost. Containing a powerhouse of proteins, vitamins and minerals, a couple of drops of this applied after my toner and before my moisturiser in the mornings make all the difference when it comes to radiance and vitality. On its own, it doesn't pack enough of a moisturising punch though, so I follow up with my go-to morning and evening moisturiser, Origins Make a Difference Rejuvenating Treatment Plus. With a deliciously orangey fragrance, this is a gel-cream, so although it's incredibly hydrating, it won't feel heavy or greasy on the skin like some products can. It sinks in like a dream, leaving my skin soft and plump, and I know it's a product I can always rely on to keep things in check.

The Balance Me Radiance Oil* is an extra little night time treat, and if my skin is feeling particularly out of sorts then I often mix a couple of drops of this in with my night cream. With a divine herbal scent, it sinks in fairly well - but I'd always recommend pinning your fringe back if you don't want to have to wash it in the morning. The Radiance Oil really does do what it says on the tin, and my complexion looks brighter and healthier after a couple of uses.

I really do find that hydration makes the biggest difference to the appearance of my skin as a whole, as when it's in need of a little extra moisture I look tired and drawn by comparison. It doesn't take much to get things back on track, and it's always worth the extra effort.

What are your go-to products when it comes to giving your skin a moisture boost?

Have you added any new products to your skincare arsenal of late?

xx

Balance Me Radiance Oil review
Elemental Herbology Cell Food Serum Review

Review: Elemental Herbology Bio-Cellular Super Cleanse

Surpise, surprise, it's another Elemental Herbology product. It must be pretty obvious by now just how impressed I am with the brand, so when I was very kindly sent the Bio-Cellular Super Cleanse* I was only too eager to incorporate it into my daily skincare routine and really put it to the test.

Described as a 'luxurious milk cleanser', this is actually quite thick and creamy in consistency, and with an impressive list of active ingredients it offers a number of skin benefits. Apple AHAs rich in malic acid exfoliate dead surface cells, resulting in an overall smoother and more refined complexion, with fine lines and wrinkles appearing diminished. Vitamin C and Rosehip help to minimise the appearance of pigmentation while nourishing and calming, while lipofructyl argan, camellia, ubuntu baobab and macadamia oil boost hydration, leaving skin soft and plumped.

I was particularly intrigued by the concept of using AHAs in cleanser form, being a big fan of exfoliating toners and treatments. Being able to get a whole range of benefits from minimal products is always the ideal for me, especially on those busy mornings where I just haven't got the time to sit down and layer on a plethora of different lotions and potions.

The cleanser works best when massaged into dry  (not wet) skin in small, circular motions, paying extra attention to any areas of congestion. I like to then remove it with a warm, damp flannel, particularly if I'm wearing makeup, as this really helps to rid the skin of any remaining debris, but I do usually still go in for a second cleanse afterwards, just to give my skin a really good deep-down clean. You could, of course, just rinse with warm water, but I really wouldn't advise it with a light product like this, as even after a double-cleanse done in this way, I still find that I pick up considerable traces of makeup on a cotton pad when applying my toner. (I know that in the past, a lot of people used to consider removal of this the main purpose of a toner, but nowadays they offer so many skincare benefits that any remaining dirt can be detrimental to any positive effects, and cleansers have improved to such a degree that they really should be doing all of that type of work themselves).

As with all of the Elemental Herbology products I've tried, this one has a lovely herbal scent, and I have really enjoyed using it. It leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth and hydrated, and I really like the idea that it might be doing something to keep the signs of ageing at bay. That said, any exfoliating effects are extremely subtle, and I have still been finding myself going in with my trusty Clarins Gentle Brightening Exfoliator Toner a few times a week.

In terms of makeup-removal, it does do the job, but I can't help but wonder whether using something like the brand's Purify and Soothe Cleansing Balm beforehand would lighten the load a bit and enable this cleanser to get on with what it does best, which is undoubtedly nourishing and protecting the skin.

Have you tried anything new from Elemental Herbology lately?

xx

Holy Grail Beauty

It's not often that I will go so far as to declare a beauty product a 'Holy Grail' item, and in oder for me to do so it really does have to be something special. There are so many fantastic products out there, but often I am left with the feeling that there must be something better out there, even when it comes to the products that I love. Let's face it, there's not really such a thing as a miracle product. But upon thinking about my own beauty collection and which products I really, truly couldn't live without, I came up with these six little gems. If I love them that much, then it's only right that I should share them with you, so here goes.

Topping the list, it has to be the Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir Reparative Serum. Of all the products I own, this one has made the single most dramatic difference to both my appearance and to the way I feel about myself, and a good eye cream is most certainly not easy to find. Generally, they tend to be over-priced and promise the world, but when it comes to delivery there is usually a lot to be desired. This little beaut, however, does exactly what it claims to on the tin, reducing the appearance of dark circles and taking down puffiness like no other. The only area in which I haven't noticed as vast a difference is in the reduction of fine lines, but in my eyes (excuse the pun) there really isn't much that can be physically done about those once you've got them. I'd highly recommend this eye cream to anyone who struggles with any under-eye issues, and will continue to buy this again and again. Unfortunately it is rather pricey, but it lasts for months on end, and I'd rather pay out for one cream that actually works than five cheaper ones that don't change a jot. Full review here.

Next up is the MUA Pro Brow Kit, which at just £3.50 is an absolute bargain. Now, I know you're going to be annoyed with me for not showing you the inside, but trust me, you really wouldn't want to with the current state it's in. Let's just call it well-loved, and I'll refer you back to my full review here if you want to see it in all it's brand-new glory. The kit contains two brow shades (one lighter, one darker) and a contour which can be used beneath the browbone. There is also a rather handy pair of mini tweezers, as well as a flimsy slanted brush which I must admit, I never use. What I love about this product is that the darker brow shade is an exact match for my own, and once applied it stays put all day. I love how sculpted and groomed it leaves my brows looking, and how natural the finish is. I suppose the fact that I literally just use the one colour and the pair of tweezers is a bit of a shame, and perhaps doesn't say a lot for the product as a whole. But at a bargainous price, it gives me exactly what I want as does the job to perfection. It's rare that I will pick up the same product, day in, day out, but that's exactly what I do with this little kit, so for me it deserves HG status.

Two blushes I can always rely on to perk up my complexion no matter what are Nars Deep Throat (review here) and Mac Sheertone Shimmer Blush in Peachykeen. Deep Throat is a soft peachy pink which would flatter any skin tone, and Peachykeen (review here) is more of a dusky burnt peach. Both add a subtle, glowing sheen to the cheeks without making you look like a glitterball, and when I am feeling really tired and run down, or just generally having a bad face day, one of these two can always manage to sort things out and get me looking alive and awake again.

Last up, two skincare products. I reach for the Ren Clearcalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser every single morning, and it works wonders at keeping any excess oil at bay. Even better, it leaves kin feeling soft, smooth and comfortable - not dry or tight as you might expect. If you've got an oily t-zone or blemish-prone skin then this one is a must-have (full review here).  The Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner is another daily necessity for me, as containing AHAs, it gently exfoliates the skin, removing any pore-blocking debris which as a result, keeps blemishes and breakouts to a minimum. It's not a miracle worker, but then I don't think there is a product in this world that can curb hormonal breakouts completely (if there is then please do let me know!). It has, however, made a noticeable difference since I first began using it, and it leaves my skin feeling smooth and soft to boot.

Which products would you be willing to give the coveted Holy Grail Status?

xx

Review: Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel

AHAs have become an essential part of my skincare routine over the past few months, whether it's daily exfoliating toners or weekly masks. My current favourite weapon against dull and lifeless skin is most definitely the Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel, which is infused with a tropical cocktail of vitamins, enzymes and skin-brightening botanicals to stimulate cell-renewal and even out the skin tone, leaving you radiant and glowing.

Apple serum, papaya, orange peel, tangerine and jojoba beads are responsible for sloughing away dead skin cells to pave the way for new epidermal growth, while vitamins A, C and E work alongside green tea and pomegranate to prevent free-radical damage. But it doesn't stop there. Manuka honey and water lily provide a powerful anti-inflamatory action to soothe and calm the skin.  Pomegranate, argan, macadamia and olive oil provide essential fatty acids to hydrate and nourish. And the multi-mineral complex of zinc, copper magnesium revitalise the skin, kick-starting cellular metabolism. So all in all, it's like a super-food for your skin - a power-smoothie, if you will!

I pop this on once or twice a week, smoothing it carefully over clean, dry skin and leaving to sit for a few minutes. The recommended time limit is four minutes, which originally led me to believe it was going to be really strong on the skin, but these days I can happily leave it for up to ten minutes if I'm a little bit busy and everything is fine (if your skin is sensitive then perhaps don't so this, though!). When the time is up, I remove the mask gently with a warm, damp muslin cloth - you could do so with water alone, but I find a cloth is really effective at getting rid of any stray jojoba beads, as well as giving skin that extra bit of exfoliation.

After use, my skin is soft, smooth and radiant. It really does leave it glowing with health, and is yet another product I would hate to be without. I'm now nearing the end of this tube, which I got as part of the Weekend Facial Set. If you are new to Elemental Herbology then I couldn't recommend this kit to you enough - for £30, you get a 30ml tube of each of their three star face masks - the Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask, Biodynamic Facial Souffle and, of course, the Facial Glow Radiance Peel - all of which are absolutely fantastic.

The full size Facial Glow is available from Feel Unique, and is priced at £40.

What are your current favourite face masks? 

Are you a fan of AHA treatments?

xx

The Skincare Tag

It's been a long while since I last did a tag post here on the blog, but being the skincare junkie that I am, I couldn't resist giving these questions the once over when I saw them over on the lovely Jess's blog
(Just Jess). I'm not going to specifically tag anyone to do the same, but if you would like to then please feel free, and be sure to leave me the link in the comments below, as I love reading about what other people include in their skincare routine.

1. Describe your skincare routine in five words.

Pamper. Masks. Exfoliating toner. AHAs.

2. What is your skin type?

I've always had perfectly normal skin, but since the year began it has become quite blemish-prone on my chin and jawline area, and my t-zone is somewhat oilier than it used to be, which has been really bothersome and quite distressing. I'm fairly sure this has been down to the contraceptive injection I had been taking on a monthly basis for the past couple of years, and have just changed back over to the pill this week - fingers crossed it might finally be the answer! (I hope that's not too much info, but that's just the way things are!)

3. What's your favourite skincare product?

I don't think there could be a more difficult question! There are just so many skincare treats that I have come to love and rely upon, but the one that has made the biggest impact on my skin in recent times has got to be the Clarins Gentle Exfoliating Brightening Toner. I use this on a nightly basis, and as well as evening out my skintone no end, it has also kicked congestion in to touch and vastly improved my problem areas.

Other favourites of mine include the Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel and Facial Detox Mask, and the Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask - weekly treats I just couldn't be without.

4. Top blemish zappers:

Lots of fish oil supplements (I take about 4g a day) and the afore-mentioned Clarins toner. Chemical exfoliants work far better for me than any manual scrub I've ever tried, and making sure your body gets all the nutrients it needs on the inside is key to overall skin health. Again, I like the Elemental Herbology Facial Detox mask for taking down active blemishes, and sometimes leave it on over night if I've got any particularly tough customers on the go. It's the best clarifying mask I've tried.

As for treatments such as La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo, I wouldn't touch them with a barge pole any more.

In my experience, they often take a minor skincare issue and make it into something worse, and more long term. Saying that, they do work brilliantly for some people, so I think it's just a case of trial and error, and getting to know your own skin.

5. Face wipes: yay or nay?

Hell to the no, my face wipe days are well and truly behind me. It makes me shudder when I look back upon the years I spent using face wipes, and NOTHING BUT face wipes. WHAT WAS I THINKING!? Nowadays, only a proper skincare routine will do, and I wouldn't dream of going to bed with my makeup on, either.

6. Toner: yay or nay?

Most definitely - in fact, you've probably gathered that this is an absolute must for me from my previous answers. As well as an exfoliating toner, I also tend to use a nice hydrating spritz too, and my favourite is the Suti Peppermint Water Organic Facial Toner.

7. High-end skincare or high-end makeup?

High-end skincare all the way, if I had to choose. I do love a luxurious makeup purchase, but at the end of the day there are plenty of fantastic high-street/drugstore products out there that will do the job - in fact, I think such brands have really come into their own over the past couple of years and are producing some fantastic products.

When it comes to skincare though, I think it's worth investing in some really good quality products, as you only get one chance to get things right with your face. Plus, if your skin doesn't look good then what use is expensive makeup? You can plaster it over the top, but it will never look as good as it could. I  have to say though, there is a small part of me that does regret ever getting into the skincare brands that I love now, as it's taken me from spending minimal money on products to spending a lot more than I would like to!

Saying that, they do make a huge difference to my skin, and that is why I now hold them in such high esteem.

8. What's the most unusual skincare product you've ever tried?

This would have to be the Heaven Bee Venom Mask. Slightly scary plastering bee venom all over your face not knowing whether or not you are allergic! At the time I suffered from quite bad anxiety, so I was whipping it off again in seconds, but I have just rediscovered it in my skincare cupboard and am planning on giving it another go this week - watch this space!

9. You're in a French pharmacy and can only pick one item. What is it?

Another tough question. At the moment is probably the La Roche Posay Serozinc, as I am itching to give that a try. But otherwise, I'm not really a fan of their products, so I'd go for one of the many wonderful Caudalie products I've already tried.

10. Tell us your top skincare tip.

Drink lots of water, and take Omega 3 supplements (if you are struggling with blemishes then make sure to go for just the Omega 3s and not one that combines all the various different types, as breakouts can often be a result of a high Omega 6 to Omega 3 ratio. So that means you might need less 6s and more 3s. Worked for me.). I'd also recommend using an exfoliating toner on a daily basis, whatever your skin type, and making sure to keep your skin nourished at all times. Don't assume that if you have blemishes, you need to let them dry out, as often the opposite is true.

Another tip is to cut back on your dairy and sugar if you are suffering from a particularly nasty breakout, as they can aggravate them further.

So that's it. I hope you enjoyed having a little delve into the things I like to use to pamper and protect my skin. I'm going to be filming an updated skincare routine video very soon, as while I used to chop and change a fair bit I am quite happy with what I'm using at the moment and am planning to stick with it, give or take a new treatment here and there - so if skincare is your thing then do keep an eye out for that.

Don't forget to link me up if you decide to do this tag - I'd love to read your posts.

xx

The Weekly Selection

Unusually for me, I haven't been buying much in the way of beauty products lately - actually, make that, at all. I suppose you could say I've been on something of a spending ban, although I haven't officially been calling it that, or telling anybody that I'm doing it. It's been more a case of just keeping my purse closed because there have been so many other expenses to cover, and there are even more just around the corner, and I have to say that I'm really rather impressed with myself for not giving in. In fact, it hasn't even been as difficult as I would have imagined, as there hasn't really been all that much that I've wanted that badly of late.

So, as I haven't been splashing the cash, I've been making the most of my current collection, and these are the products that I've been enjoying over the past week.

Now, I say I haven't bought anything, but there are two exceptions in this post, those being the Tresemme Keratin Smooth shampoo and conditioner. I don't really think these count, as they are a necessity and are very reasonably priced. I've been wanting to try the Keratin Smooth range for a while now, but it has only just arrived where I am, so when I saw these two in the supermarket last week I snapped them up and have been using them ever since. So far, so good - but I have to say, it takes a lot to impress me where haircare is concerned, and with these two I haven't seen anything that makes me want to shout about them from the rooftops. They are a nice day to day duo and do the job for which they were designed, but while my hair does seem to be that bit less frizzy, I can't be sure it's not just down to the little DIY trim I gave myself last week. They do leave my hair soft and manageable though, and for the price I can't complain.

Once again, I've been loving my Topshop Cream Blush in the shade Flush for a bright pop of coral that's perfect for the warmer summer weather. Where lips are concerned, I have resurrected an old favourite, the Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Honey, which is such an easy every-day product to reach for. While I do love a bright lip in the summer, lately I've been finding that I can't always be bothered with the maintenance they involve, and despite being a lipstick girl at heart I've been favouring lighter products which will let my lips breathe a bit more. Honey is such a flattering shade and I think it would suit pretty much anyone. It's subtle yet pretty, and is so easy to reapply on the go without having to worry about doing so to perfection. It keeps my lips nice and hydrated too, which is always a bonus in the heat.

Skincare-wise, I've been relying on the Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel to exfoliate my skin and keep it looking its best on a weekly basis. The sunshine can leave it feeling that bit more dehydrated than usual, and with extra sebum production being a bit of a risk this helps to get rid of any pore-blocking debris as well as leaving skin smooth and glowing.

I've also been slathering the Nip & Fab Mango Smoothie Dry Skin Fix Body Butter on lately, as whenever it's sunny I like nothing more than to douse myself in fruity fragrances that epitomise the long summer days. It's pretty moisturising, though I wouldn't say it's as amazing in that department as some seem to find it. It does smell exactly like a real mango smoothie though, and it only costs £2.95 -  can't argue with that.

Which products have you been loving the most this week?

xx

Detox Masks

 Laura Mercier Deep Cleansing Clay Mask  //  Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask  //  Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask

Detox masks are an integral part of my skincare routine, and rarely a week passes by where I don't pop one on at least a couple of times to decongest my skin and keep it looking its best. If I am particularly breaking out then they are all the more essential, as the right mask can make a huge difference to active blemishes, bringing down the redness and sending them on their way a lot more quickly than if they were left to their own devices. My go-to mask in that situation is undoubtedly the Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask, which provides a rapid solution for spot-prone, irritable and reactive skin. With mineral-rich Amozonian Clay to eliminate toxins while gently exfoliating and softening, oat flour and Allantoin to resolve congestion and Manuka honey, aloe and calendula for their powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial action, this little beauty packs a real punch, and has become an absolute lifesaver when my skin is in distress. I tend to use this just on my t-zone, as my cheeks are pretty clear, and leaving it on for fifteen to twenty minutes leaves things looking a lot calmer. If I have a particularly nasty-looking blemish or two then I have been known to pop this on over night, and the difference in the morning is quite remarkable, diminished in size and redness by a considerable amount.

For keeping things clear in the first place, I usually reach for the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask. This is great for maintenance, as the charcoal acts as a magnet to draw any nasty bits of debris and oil out of the pores, preventing them from forming into anything unsightly. Again, this one goes on for about fifteen minutes, and it dries to an absolutely rock-solid layer, so perhaps make sure you don't have to talk to anyone when you've got this on! A couple of downsides to this one - one, it doesn't manage to tackle the most stubborn blocked pores I have on my nose alone, but it does make extractions that bit easier (lovely - sorry!). And two, it's a bit of a pain to remove. It's almost black in colour too, so you can imagine that I've had to bin more than one or two muslin cloths since I first began using it. It's worth the effort though, as I find it a lot more effective than most other masks I've tried.

Last (and also least) is the Laura Mercier Deep Cleansing Clay Mask, which was probably one of the first face masks I ever picked up. Nowadays it's not the sort of brand I would usually turn to for skincare, and I must admit that this is not usually a mask I personally reach for, but I thought I'd share it with you because we are all different. It's basically your average clay mask, and I can't say I notice a huge difference after using it, but it's probably a good one for someone with minimal skin issues, as it will keep things clear if used regularly. It's pink too, which I know will appeal to some of you! 

I do love Laura Mercier as a brand, but I'm much more likely to be found browsing the makeup section, as there are certain ingredients I like to avoid in my skincare.

What are your go-to face masks in your skin's hour of need?

xx

Elemental Herbology Cell Food Serum

The fact that Elemental Herbology is a cruelty free brand has always warranted a big thumbs up from me, and with no parabens, sulphates, mineral oils, synthetic fragrances or artificial colours in their products it comes as no surprise that they have quickly made their way up my mental list of great skincare brands.

The Elemental Herbology Cell Food Radiance and Vitality Facial Serum* is one of the brand's best-selling products, and once you have given it a go it's not difficult to figure out why. Containing fourteen active ingredients and six anti-oxidants, this serum is packed full of nourishing goodness to get dull, parched and lacklustre skin looking back to its radiant best in no time. The anti-ageing 'power house' of proteins, vitamins and anti-oxidants provide a real boost, helping to stimulate collagen and elastin production, as well as reducing the prevalence of lines, wrinkles and dark spots.

With kombuchka to improve skin texture and diminish pigmentation, pomegranate to moisturise and nourish, and vitamins A, C and E, CoEnzyme Q10 and green tea (phew!) to fight against free radical damage and wrinkles, it's like feeding your skin a perfectly nutritionally balanced meal. But how did it actually fare when I put it to the test?

The Cell Food Serum comes in a sleek metallic bottle, making it the perfect decorative addition to any skincare shelf. But it's not just a pretty face.

Every morning and evening, I dispense a couple of drops of this onto my fingertips (using the handy pipette), and massage it into my skin after toning. It's a white liquid, which absorbs almost instantly into the skin without so much of a hint of greasiness or tackiness, meaning it won't slow you down on those days where you just don't have the time to wait around. Anyone with sensitive skin will love this, as the Aloe and Rose Damask water it contains will calm and soothe, making it the perfect partner for any and all skin-types.

The Cell Food Serum has made quite a considerable difference to my skin since I began using it, with a much more even tone and diminished dark marks (from going out in the sun without a high enough SPF on  - naughty, naughty). The best thing of all though, is the healthy, radiant glow it has given me - a much needed boost, and a welcome distraction from the pesky blemishes that have been bringing me down of late. My skin now feels healthy, comfortable, plump and well-nourished, and I'm more than happy to have this serum in my day-to-day routine.

The Elemental Herbology Cell Food Serum is available direct from Elemental Herbology, and also from Feel Unique, priced at £45. 

Have you tried anything from Elemental Herbology? What are your favourite products?

xx

The Weekly Selection

Hi everyone, hope you're all having a good weekend and that there's a bit of sunshine where you are. It's really hot here today so I'm thinking of getting out in the garden with a good book this afternoon and making the most of it before I come back home to the usual British downpours!

This week saw me shunning my favourite summer blushes (Topshop Flush and Mac Peachykeen, if you're wondering), in favour of an old favourite I found lurking at the bottom of my makeup bag - Nars Deep Throat. It's such a gorgeous, natural peachy-pink shade with ever such a hint of shimmer, and while I'm only to pleased to dot on a pop of colour throughout the summer months, sometimes a subtle glow is far more flattering. I'm talking about those days where you wake up looking pale, drawn, and just plain exhausted - those days where a bright blush only serves to add to these effects, but that Deep Throat will always throw me a lifeline and make me look alive again.

Skincare-wise, it's been all about the Elemental Herbology Cell Food Radiance and Vitality Serum*, mainly because it does exactly what it says on the tin. It absorbs into the skin withing mere seconds, and since I've been including this in my daily routine, I've noticed a dramatic difference in the condition of my skin. It looks healthy and even, with a lovely glow, and as a result it has fast become a daily staple.

It's all about the fruity fragrances at this time of year, so I've been spritzing myself with an old favourite, the Nina Ricci Eau de Toilette. It's subtly sweet without being sickly, and the aroma of apples is so fresh and delicious that I'm only too glad to reinstate it as my signature fragrance throughout the summer months.

Last but not least, it would be rude not to pop a bright colour on your lips to celebrate the sunshine, and this week my weapon of choice has been Mac Impassioned. It's a gorgeous bright, fuchsia pink with a hint of coral, and is enough to liven up any natural, undone look.

What products haven't you been able to live without this week?

xx

Cleanser Confidential

When it comes to cleansers, there is such a vast array to choose from, with different types for different skin concerns, and a plethora of varying ingredients to sift through. With the world of information available to us on the internet today, you'd think choosing the right cleanser for you would be a piece of cake, but it only takes a quick Google search to realise that it's just not the case. Bombarded from every angle with different opinions and pieces of advice, it's difficult to know who to believe, making the whole thing a bit of a minefield, but with a bit of time and effort, there are some trustworthy sources to be found, and it's possible to filter out all the marketing jargon and get to the truth. Add to that a bit of trial and error, and you're well on your way to finding a product that your skin is going to love.

Having previously been blessed with normal skin (now combo with hormonal breakouts! Yay), I've been through the mill when it comes to trying out cleansers, and have built up quite a little collection. In doing so, I've definitely learnt what works for me and what doesn't, and being an avid researcher, I've picked up some invaluable hints and tips along the way. I am by no means suggesting that I am an expert on the matter, but I thought it was about time I shared with you what I have come to take as gospel when it comes to cleansers (thank you, Caroline Hirons!), as well as taking you on a little tour of the different types in my collection and the purposes they serve. There really is something for everyone, so whatever your skin type, I hope you will see something that tickles your fancy. (If you are an oily/acne-prone skin-er who uses gel cleansers in particular then you might hear something you weren't expecting in the final section!)

The Butter/Balm Cleanser: Antipodes Grapeseed Butter Cleanser (certified organic)

If you haven't heard about the Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm by now then frankly, where have you been? It's taken the beauty world by storm over the past few months, with cleansing balms becoming the ultimate must-have product for all skin types. While they might not suit everybody as a morning  cleanser, they will generally do the trick for anybody when it comes to removing makeup in the evenings - you can always follow up with a second cleanser if you are worried that it might be too rich for you, and if you have problematic or congested skin then keep an eye out for the ingredients list and go for one that doesn't contain shea or cocoa butter, which can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) for some.

The Antipodes Grapeseed Butter Cleanser looks exactly as it sounds, and is warmed between the fingers before being massaged onto the skin in small, circular motions. This has quite a pleasant herbal scent that is almost menthol, and really does melt off all your makeup in one fell swoop. Unfortunately for me, I neglected to notice that this one contains coconut oil, something I know full well that my skin won't tolerate, so inevitably it ended up breaking me out. Don't let that put you off though, as for many, coconut oil does absolute wonders for both skin and hair.

As for me, I've already got my eye on a couple of other balms worth trying out - namely the Elemis Pro Collagen Cleansing Balm,  Elemental Herbology Purify and Soothe Facial Cleansing Balm and the Ren No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm.

The Cream Cleanser: Tropic Organic Hot Bamboo Smoothing Cleanser*

Cream cleansers are great for normal to dry skin, but it's wise to keep an eye on the ingredients in them if you've got slightly oilier or more blemish-prone skin as they often contain botanics and essential oils which may not suit you best as they can be comedogenic. If you haven't been living under a rock for the past couple of years, then you probably will have heard of the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish , a product which has paved the way for a whole host of new hot cloth cleansers, and one of the best I have come across is this one, by Tropic. I find the ritual of massaging a creamy, herbal-scented cleanser into dry (not damp) skin, before removing thoroughly with a muslin cloth soaked in warm water so relaxing at bedtime, and equally as invigorating in the mornings - so much so, that hot-cloth cleansers have changed the way I think about my skincare routine entirely.

Recommended: Pai Camellia and Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, Antipodes Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser (great for sensitive or problematic skin).

The Milk Cleanser: Elemental Herbology Bio-Cellular Super Cleanse*

Milks are often recommended for dry or sensitive skin, but that doesn't mean that they are off-limits to everyone else. Often, though, milks can be so light that it is difficult to ensure that every last scrap of makeup has been removed, so some might say they are a better option for your second cleanse. The Elemental Herbology Bio-Cellular Super Cleanse, however, is much thicker in consistency than traditional milk cleansers, and does a fantastic job at leaving my face feeling clean, soft and smooth. As an added bonus, it also contains apple AHAs, which are great at encouraging cell turn-over and in turn, keeping blemishes to a minimum. This little gem is my current go-to evening cleanser, and my skin really seems to get along with it well.

Recommended: Origins Make a Difference Rejuvenating Cleansing Milk.

The Clay Cleanser: Ren Clearcalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser

Although this one gets a category of it's own, I must admit that it's the only one of it's kind I've ever stumbled across. Recommended for problem (blemish-prone) skin, this is a thick, creamy cleanser with a slightly denser consistency, and smells exactly like a clay mask. This is a great one to use as your morning cleanser (as I do) if you do suffer from blemishes, breakouts or oiliness - it won't remove makeup, but it will leave skin feeling fresh, clean and comfortable with it's purifying, anti-bacterial formula.

The Gel Cleanser: La Roche Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel

Now, I'm going to be honest from the off here: I really don't like this cleanser, and I bought it only because I found myself in an emergency situation, which involved having nothing to wash my face with and no access to anything I would usually go for! My skin really did not get on with this at all, and I definitely will not be reaching for it any time in the future.

 Traditionally, gel cleansers have been recommended for people with oily or acne-prone skin, and to this day they are still touted by many brands as being the best thing to use for this skin issue. However, the reality is that most gel cleansers on the market contain strong chemical detergents such as Sodium Laurel/Laureth Sulphate to make them 'foam' (the LRP Effaclar included). What's the problem with that? Well, have you ever washed your face and afterwards felt pleased with yourself because your skin seemed to be so squeaky clean? It might seem like a desirable result, but actually it couldn't be further from it, as it means that you have stripped your skin of all it's natural oils. The result? Your skin will over-compensate by producing excess sebum, putting you right back where you started, and if you've got any visible blemishes then you may well find that the SLS chemicals only irritate them further. 

However, this is not to say that all gel cleansers are bad - brands like Ren, for example, offer some lovely light gels which are sulphate free and won't strip your skin of the essential oils it needs.

Recommended: Ren Mayblossom T-Zone Control Cleansing Gel (combination skin), Ren Rosa Centifolia Cleansing Gel (normal skin), Ren Hydra-Calm Cleansing Gel (sensitive skin).

I hope you've enjoyed having a little nose through my cleanser collection, and perhaps learned something new. If you are already quite clued up on the subject then do let me know your personal favourites in the comments below, as I'm always on the look out for new gems to try.

xx

Review: Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Mask

A girl can never have too many detox masks - that is, unless they don't work, and having tried out a great many myself I was beginning to get a little bit disheartened. There have been a couple that have seemed to do the job pretty well at first, but sadly they have later decreased quite considerably in effectiveness, and then there are others which just don't seem to make much of a difference at all.

Enter, the Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Purifying Facial Mask.

I was lucky enough to receive the Elemental Herbology Weekend Facial kit for my birthday, which consists of three 30ml travel-size masks: The Facial Detox, Facial Glow Radiance Peel and Biodynamic Facial Souffle - all of which I will be chatting to you about in due course.

As I'm sure you all know by now, I have quite problematic skin at the moment, and it's something that has been going on for the past few months, so needless to say, I was thrilled at the prospect of having another weapon against breakouts and blemishes.

The Facial Detox is a clay-based anti-bacterial mask which aims to reduce excess sebum and decongest the pores, giving the skin a really deep-down cleanse. It's recommended for oily or congested skin, and personally this only really applies to my t-zone, so I have been using it on that area alone and giving my cheeks the swerve.

Mineral rich organic Amazonian clay is responsible for helping eliminate toxins from the skin, while essential oils of eucalyptus, cedarwood, lavender and rosemary help to balance the production of sebum. Add to that some oat flour and allantoin to gently exfoliate and resolve congestion, and you are pretty much good to go. As an added bonus, this mask is also packed with Manuka honey, aloe and calendula to soothe the skin, meaning that your skin will never feel stripped or dry after use. And it doesn't stop there, with secret weapons kombuchka to visibly reduce pigmentation (something we could all do with after a nasty breakout) and anti-oxidant rich fig extract and malachite to help protect against pollution and environmental extremes. Phew, this certainly is one multi-tasking little marvel.

I apply this to my t-zone in the evenings as often as required, which at the moment is about 2-3 times a week, and leave it to dry for roughly fifteen minutes (it has a pleasant herbal scent, which I personally quite enjoy). I then remove it with a warm, damp muslin cloth or flannel, and continue on with the rest of my skincare routine. If I have a particularly angry breakout on the go then I will apply this directly onto the offending blemishes and leave it on over night, and I really do find that this works wonders in terms of reducing redness and shrinking them in size. Generally, using this mask on a regular basis really helps to keep things under control, and minimise the longevity and severity of breakouts. I definitely find that I break out more often when I get lazy and don't bother using this mask as I think my skin is ok, which is proof that it really does make a difference.

New favourite clarifying mask? I think so! I've been rationing this one out, but I am definitely going to be caving in and purchasing the full-size 75ml tube, which is available from Feel Unique for a slightly pricey £28. It's certainly not the cheapest I've tried, but then I do think it's worth paying a little bit more for something that really works than settling for a more affordable option which just...well, doesn't.

(If you fancy picking up the afore-mentioned Weekend Facial set then that one comes in at £30, and is pretty good value if you fancy dipping your toe in, as you get to try three of their products which individually are a lot more costly.)

The Facial Detox mask has fast become a secret weapon I can't live without, so whether you're suffering from annoying breakouts or just a bit of excess oil then this one is for you.

Have you tried anything from Elemental Herbology?

If so, what is your favourite product?

xx

Review: Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir

I'm sure I've mentioned countless times before on this blog how dark circles and under-eye puffiness are pretty much the bane of my life. Up until about a year ago I was more or less problem free in that respect, then all of a sudden, I woke up one day and everything had changed. It's not that I have particularly bad dark circles, but they are certainly noticeable, so since it all started I've tried out a number of different eye creams, all to no avail. Origins Gin Zing did help a little bit, but nothing to write home about - in fact, I only realised it had been doing some sort of good when I stopped using it for a time.

As if dark circles and puffiness aren't enough, I then began to realise that I have developed some under-eye creases and crinkles, so I embarked upon a split routine, trying to attack the former with my morning eye cream and the latter in the evenings, but it was all a bit of a disappointment.

So, when I stumbled upon the Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir, which promises to fight dark circles, puffiness and fine lines all in one go, I was straight online hunting for the best bargain I could find! It really is a rarity to find an eye product that can combat all three, and with eye creams not exactly coming cheap this seemed like the perfect solution. An added bonus was that I was eager to try out some more products from Elemental Herbology, so it was pretty much a win-win.

So, onto the review.

Elemental Herbology pride themselves on their nutritious, indulgent and high-performing products, using patented bio-active ingredients and sophisticated technologies to produce visible results. Rich in vitamins, anti-oxidants and essential fatty acids, all products feed and nurture the skin with everything it needs to restore vibrance and vitality, as well as helping to keep individual skin complaints under control. Not only do these ingredients help to counteract the effects of the environment, but they also help to fight against the damage done by ageing and lifestyle.

Packed with lots of lovely, natural ingredients, Elemental Herbology was always going to be right up my street, so I couldn't wait to add the Eye Elixir to both my morning and evening routines. 100% free of mineral oils, synthetic fragrances and colours, sulphates and paraben preservatives, this is something that always sits well with me, as I like to know exactly what I'm putting on my skin and try my best to avoid unnecessary chemicals or comedogenic (pore clogging) ingredients where possible. Even better, Elemental Herbology never test on animals, which again I think is something really important, and it's nice to see some brands still holding their own on this one.

The main active ingredients in the Eye Elixir are plant peptides, hematite and blue algae, all of which contribute to the firming, tightening, lifting and nourishing properties. It comes in a little glass bottle with a pump dispenser - something that really appeals to me as it's so much more hygienic than repeatedly dipping your fingers in the same pot time and again.

The Elixir is an off-white cream of lotion consistency, and has the most wonderful herbal scent (all natural, of course). I do find that the pump dispenses a little bit more product than I would personally choose, but luckily my under-eye area drinks it right up regardless. Half a pump is all that's required, and I dot it around the inner aspect of my orbital bone before gently tapping it in with my ring fingers.

So, the burning question. Does it really work?

You all know how much of a skeptic I am when it comes to eye creams, having been disappointed by them time and again in the past. But I have to say, the Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir has somewhat changed my stance on the matter! It does a great job of hydrating my under-eye area and leaving it silky smooth and soft, but even better - and more astonishingly, in my eyes - it really, genuinely has helped to diminish my dark circles and puffiness quite noticeably. How can I be so sure? Well, one day I just looked in the mirror and was shocked to find that I barely had any signs of darkness under my eyes, and since then I have found that I've almost completely forgotten about such woes. I used to feel like crying in the mornings, when no amount of concealer could disguise anything, but this stuff really has made a big difference. Sadly - and there's always a but, isn't there? - I can't say that I've noticed any difference whatsoever when it comes to fine lines, but taking into consideration my past experience, two out of three certainly isn't bad!

I'm definitely going to be repurchasing this when I run out, which hopefully won't be any time soon. At £40 for 15ml this most certainly doesn't come cheap, so while I got mine on special offer at half that price, I'm going to find it really difficult to part with the cash when I reach the bottom of my bottle. In fact, I'll definitely be waiting until I can get it on sale! Still, at least I know that it does do the job, and on that basis it's worth it

You can find the Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir on their website, and also at Feel Unique.

Have you tried anything from Elemental Herbology?

Would you recommend any of their other products? I can't wait to try more, and already have their Weekend Facial gift set to tell you all about before long.

xx

Review: Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask

Ever since I first heard about this face mask, I knew it would be right up my street. I had been eager to try natural and organic New Zealand skincare brand Antipodes for such a long time, but due to other skincare needs, adding to my face mask collection got bumped down the list in favour of replacing cleansers (my first foray into Antipodes was with their Grapeseed Butter Cleanser - review here), serums and other daily necessities. So, when my birthday rolled around at the beginning of the month, I already knew what was top of my list, and I finally received the Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask.

Antipodes products are vegetarian approved and cruelty free, as well as containing a high level of certified organic ingredients (in order for an entire product to be certified organic it must contain 70-95% organic ingredients, so while only a selection of Antipodes products are able to bear this stamp, the others are not far off at all).

What really drew me in when it comes to the brand is the list of delicious-sounding ingredients their products boast, such as manuka honey, avocado oil and vinanza grape extract - don't they just sound good enough to eat? 

The Aura Manuka Honey Mask is no exception, with the main ingredient being, unsurprisingly, manuka honey. A traditional remedy of New Zealand Maori people, it really packs a punch, drawing moisture to the skin which in turn aids hydration, as well as having powerful anti-bacterial properties which are just what the doctor ordered when it comes to stopping blemishes in their tracks. Also packed with nutrient-rich avocado oil and ruby red pohutukawa bloom, one of nature's finest antioxidants, this multi-tasking marvel promises to cover all the bases. 

The instructions advise smoothing on a thick layer at sunset at least twice a week, although it's gentle enough to be used on a daily basis. You leave it on for fifteen minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Personally, I tend to use this 2-3 times a week, as while I do like to keep my face masks as a treat, this one is just so divine I can't seem to leave it alone, and I really look forward to taking off my makeup, cleansing and popping a layer on when I get home from work. The smell is absolutely incredible, with fragrance of vanilla pod and mandarin, and while quite thick and creamy, a light layer is all that's required to give the skin that much-needed boost. It appears transparent on the skin, and I have to say that the very first time I tried it I was absolutely amazed by its calming, relaxing properties. Antipodes do say that the scent brings peace and balance to the aura, and I couldn't agree more. There is a very slight tingle that lets me know the mask is getting to work, and I really do mean it when I say that the fifteen minutes I leave this on are fifteen minutes of pleasure. It's definitely not one of those masks that has you watching the clock until it's time to take it off, and if anything I find myself leaving it on for longer.

When I remove the mask, my skin feels silky-soft and hydrated, and this has definitely been playing a part in soothing my blemishes and keeping them a bit more under control. I tend to use it straight after the Elemental Herbology Facial Detox Mask, and together they have made a world of difference to my recently un-cooperative skin. Afterwards, my skin looks glowing and healthy, and any redness has been greatly diminished.

 What can I say? This is the most delightful addition to my skincare collection in quite some time, and has shot straight to the top of my list of most-loved face-masks. It's a pleasure to use, and a great multi-tasker. Having only used a  fraction of the tube up, I'm already thinking about re-ordering, as it's quickly become one of those go-to products I don't ever want to find myself without! I absolutely love it, and every application is a real experience for the senses as well as the skin.

The Antipodes Aura Manuka Mask is available from Feel Unique at £21.50 for 75ml.

Have you tried anything from Antipodes? If so, what were your thoughts?

Are you a fan of natural skincare brands?

xx

New in: Birthday Beauty Bits

Hello everyone, I'm sure you're all sick of hearing about all-things birthday-related by now, but I have one last post to share with you, and that is the beauty bits I was lucky enough to receive. Now, I have already uploaded a video on this to my Youtube channel, but as I know that some of you prefer to read about things instead I thought I'd pop up some pictures and tell you all about them here, too. If, however, you do fancy a cheeky watch of the video then here it is below. If not then keep reading :)

Video:

First up, I finally got my mitts on the Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask. I actually ordered this one well in advance, as I've had my eye on it for the longest time. It contains lots of lovely ingredients like avocado oil, and smells of vanilla and mandarin, which frankly is just divine. It's really a moisture mask, but the anti-bacterial properties of the manuka honey make it great for blemishes, too.

Continuing on the theme of skincare,  also got the Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir, and so far I'm absolutely loving it. It's so rare to find an eye cream that offers to fight dark circles, puffiness and fine lines all in one go, let alone one that actually delivers, and so far this one has definitely impressed. Plus, it has a lovely herbal scent, which is always a bonus in my eyes.

Lastly for skincare, my lovely mother got me the Elemental Herbology Weekend Facial set, which consists of their Facial Detox mask, Facial Glow Radiance Peel and Biodynamic Souffle, which is an overnight moisture mask. So far I've only used the first two once, so I will keep you posted, but so far I like them a lot.

Moving onto makeup, the hubby took me birthday shopping at the weekend, so it was only natural that I'd pop into Mac. I went in looking to come away with a Paint Pot in either Bare Study or Groundwork, and in the end I went with Groundwork. If you're not sure what these are then they are basically cream pigments which can be used either as an eyeshadow base or on their own, and I've been enjoying using mine solo as an easy every-day eye colour. While there, I was inevitably tempted by the lipsticks, and soon foun myself in the possession of my first Cremesheen lipstick in the shade Coral Bliss, which is a lovely sheer, pinky coral. It has quite a glossy finsh, meaning it won't cling to any dry patches, and the colour is buildable, so you can vary the level of intensity. All in all, a lovely, easy to wear lipstick for Spring.

Last but not least comes a Sheertone blush in the shade Peachykeen. I actually had no intention of getting a blush at all, but the sales assistant had popped some of this onto my cheeks while I was in-store, and after I left I kept finding myself admiring the pretty, healthy glow it had given me whenever I passed a mirror, and in the end I just had to go back and snap it up. I'd say it's somewhere between a peach and a coral, and in the pan it does seem to contain some glitter particles, but these don't transfer onto the skin at all as it leaves only a luminous glow.

So that's my lot! I may well be doing a second part to this post at some point, as I know I've been sent a few  other beauty-related bits as presents which haven't arrived yet. 

Hope you enjoyed having a little nose at the latest additions to my beauty cupboard and that you're all having a great week.

xx

Weekend Wishlist

Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir  -  Mac Lipstick in Party Parrot (Strength Collection)  -  Mac Lipstick in Strong Woman (Strength Collection)  -  Half Floral Tee, Topshop  -  Floral Sequin Vest, Topshop  -  Spike Stud Set, Accessorize  -  Spike Bangles  -  Elemental Herbology Facial Glow  -  Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask  -  Origins No Puffery  -  Cream Cut-Out Shoes, Miss Selfridge  -  Fringe Crop Top  -  Mint Satchel, ASOS

This week, I've found myself in need of some nice new summery tops to pair with my huge catalogue of existing shorts. I tend to get bored of tops very quickly, to the point that when I get a couple of new ones I can't remember for the life of me what I actually used to wear before. Anyway, this week Topshop have got some lovely offerings in their new-in section, which remind me of summer festivals. Need I say more?

I also stumbled upon these gorgeous cream cutwork shoes from Miss Selfridge. Being something of a shortie, I'm always glad of a bit of extra height, so these will see me right through S/S 2013, day and night. To top off the new additions to my wardrobe (well...sort of) are some studded jewellery (you can never have too much) and the token Spring mint satchel. Mint is by far my favourite shade for the warmer months, so I can't wait to break it out again this year.

Beauty-wise, I seem to have been getting a bit out of depth. Champagne lips, lemonade pockets, as some might say. Basically,  everything I want costs a fortune. The main culprit is currently Elemental Herbology, a brand I have been eager to try for a while now. You may have noticed their Facial Detox mask on last week's wishlist, and this time it's the Eye Elixir and the Facial Glow Mask. I don't think I could bring myself to pay full price for them, as I am strongly of the believe that once you go even higher-end, you won't want to go back. It's a downward spiral, a dangerous game. Anyway, luckily for me, I was able to pick up the eye Elixir at little more than half the RRP, along with the Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask, so those should at least feed my skincare craving for...a day?

Last but not least are some absolutely gorgeous, punchy shades of lipstick from the Mac Strength Collection (Party Parrot and Strong Woman), and Origins No More Puffery, because I woke up with THE puffiest eyes ever this morning, and that can't be happening again.

I hope you're all enjoying your weekend, and I'm extremely jealous of all you lovelies off to blogger meet-ups. I hope you all have a wonderful time, and for those of you with other plans, or staying at home, fingers crossed you have a relaxing time too.

What's on your wishlist this week?

xx