Elemis Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules

Skincare has got to be one of the most important things to make time for in your daily routine, regardless of age, lifestyle or inclination. Although I'm far from perfect, and occasionally suffer from the odd slip-up - usually after one or two glasses of wine - I make it a priority to remove my makeup before bed and to ensure that I give my skin a good old cleanse, tone and moisturise. In fact, if you've been reading for a while, then you'll know that I'm quite the skincare connoisseur, and am always trying out the latest lotions, potions and treatments to see whether they have something special to offer. Of course, some make it into my regular routine, while others are cast aside a few weeks in. So, on the rare occasion that I do discover a real gem, the first thing I want to do is to share it with you.

Most recently, my secret weapon of choice has been the Elemis Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules*, which were selected as QVC Beauty's pick of the month for January. I'm actually really upset that I didn't get to share these with you before the month was up, but a number of factors came into play to make it impossible. That said, you can still get your hands on these little capsules of goodness at QVC Beauty, and for the month of February, a brand new hero product has been nominated. This time around, it's the Philip Kingsley Neroli & Geranium Elasticizer, and it's available at a heavily discounted price if you buy directly through their site. It's a fantastic opportunity to invest in those pricier beauty products and make a really good saving, with a different product taking centre stage every month throughout the year.

So, onto the Skin Bliss Capsules themselves.

The  Elemis Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules are designed to aid the detoxification of the skin, containing moringa oil to balance and protect it from the stresses and strains of everyday life. Packed with anti-oxidants, the nourishing ingredients endeavour to physically diminish the visible signs of ageing, targetting everything from wrinkles and fine lines to dull and lacklustre skin.

The treatment aims to create an effective base for the nutrients from your moisturisers to be absorbed, ridding the skin of any remaining impurities before your creams are applied. As if that wasn't enough, these small yet mighty little capsules use signature aromas to provide a sensory experience - in fact, they even claim to increase the production of the 'bliss' hormones, endorphins. Need any more convincing?

The pink capsules are designed to be used in the morning, and are formulated with a rose absolute to provide skin with maximum renewing and revitalising energy throughout the day

For night time, the green capsules are packed with relaxing lavender oil to help renew cell equilibrium and increase cell repair throughout the night.

Both have the added benefits of being able to target blemishes and breakouts while soothing and hydrating the skin, ridding you of dry,dull skin to make way for radiance and youthfulness.

To use, the capsules are easily twisted open, and after a few moments warming the oil between your palms, it is ready to go. Whether morning or evening, it's advisable to apply after cleansing and toning, massaging into the skin with the fingertips until fully absorbed.

So, with all of the benefits I've outlined in mind, it's clear that these small yet mighty capsules have got a lot to live up to, but in reality, do they really cut the mustard?

For me, they absolutely do. I've been looking really quite run down recently, and although I haven't been using the capsules every day, the difference in my skin since on the days that I do is noticeable - I've had more than one person comment on how clear it has been looking. Granted, my skin is pretty normal to start with, but to me it feels a great deal smoother, softer and plumper. It drinks in the oils upon application, and generally looks a whole lot healthier afterwards. It doesn't end there, either, as applying the evening capsules before bed and taking the time to massage them into the face has become my favourite nightly ritual. The soothing lavender oils are perfect for inducing the bed-time wind-down, and I adore waking up to brighter, radiant skin in the morning.

As for the anti-ageing benefits, it's really too early to comment, but I will be continuing to use the Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules, this time on a daily basis,and will most definitely be updating you on my progress. If you know me, you'll know that I'm paranoid about ageing prematurely, so I certainly don't need telling twice to stick to the straight and narrow and give these the best possible chance of turning back the clock!

Do you shop at QVC Beauty? What are your favourite products from Elemis?

xx

Cult Beauty Wishlist

Studio 10 Visible Lift Face Definer  //  Aromatherapy Associates Relax Balm  //  Anastasia Brow Wiz  //  Elemis Jasmine & Rose Bath Milk  //  Aesop Control  //  EOS Honeysuckle Honeydew Lip Balm  

So I might have been having a little bit of a browse on Cult Beauty lately, and if you think it was the first time then you'd be very wrong. I often find myself clicking between that site and Space NK, longing to fill my virtual shopping basket and skip happily to the checkout, but with the prices of premium brands these days it is rarely something that happens - and when it does, I'm more likely to be hanging my head with guilt.

But there's something about such products that are hard for a beauty blogger to resist - or anyone else who enjoys trying and testing high end makeup and skincare, for that matter.

I am completely new to Studio 10, and have never, ever tried any of their products. But the second I saw this Visible Lift Face Definer palette, I knew I had to have it. The muted taupe shade is completely perfect for contouring - with grey tones rather than orange, it would create a really realistic shadow, giving anyone cheekbones to die for. I'm intrigued by the gel blush, too, as I can't say I've ever come across such a formula in the past, but it certainly looks to be a gorgeous, bright shade for Summer. And who doesn't love a highlighter? At £30 for all three, I think it would be well worth the investment, and is a great way to sample a few products from a new brand, all in one go.

I'm a terrible stress head, and by that I mean that I worry and fret about almost everything. Sometimes I think I'm going to drive myself mad, and with my mind racing at a million miles an hour on a regular basis, I've tried pretty much every relaxation remedy out there.
So it comes as no surprise that I gravitated straight towards the Aromatherapy Associates Relax Balm. With a mix of vetyver, chamomile and sandalwood essential oils, this strikes me as quite a different blend from the ones I have tried before, and as such, I'm hopeful that it might provide some new relief!

I'm a little bit obsessed with defining my brows, as I think that doing so can make a real difference to any face. I'm always looking out for the best new brow products on the market, and the Anastasia Brow Wiz ticks all the boxes. With a skinny, mechanical nib it mimmicks even the finest of hairs, giving you absolute control with a really natural looking result.
I must admit, the last three items were added on a whim. I am in love with Elemis bath milks -when it comes to hydration and baby soft skin, nothing else comes close. At £42, I doubt I'd bite the bullet and purchase one myself (I was lucky enough to win one in the past), but it's always nice to dream.
EOS lip balms are always welcome in my handbag, as they smell amazing and get the job done in a pleasant and effective manner. The new honeysuckle honeydew offering sounds like just my cup of tea, and perfect to replace my minty winter Carmex.
I rarely get blemishes these days, but everyone could do with having a secret weapon on hand for the odd occasion they do decide to make an appearance. You can bet your bottom dollar it'll be the most inconvenient timing of all, so the Aesop Control is firmly on my radar. With witch hazel, lemon peel, rosemary leaf and sage oils - alongside antibacterial tea tree and exfoliating salicylic acid to chemically resurface and ease congestion, this one is bound to be a winner.
Better start saving my pennies!

Do you shop at Cult Beauty?
What's on your shopping list this week?

xx

Review: Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask

I'm a big fan of skin-resurfacing products, and since my first experience I've made sure to have a selection of them in my skincare repertoire at all times. Nothing keeps things feeling smooth or looking radiant quite like an AHA mask or exfoliating toner, and suffice to say I really would be lost without them.

At £48, the Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask is hardly what I would call cheap, but with promises of smoother skin that's more even in tone, diminished fine lines and blemishes and reduced shine, I was willing to take a chance on it. Luckily for me though, I did manage to get it half price in a sale, which is always a huge help when trying out a pricey product for the first time. Once I know that I love something, and that it works well for me, I'm not so reluctant to part with my pennies, but until then......

I'm still not quite at the age where anti-ageing is my main concern, but I do believe that prevention is better than cure. As we age, cellular renewal gradually declines. The result? Dull and lifeless skin that's in dire need of an extra helping hand. The Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask combines patented tri-enzyme technology with Amazonian acerola cherry, white truffle Poria Cocos, great burdock, erysimum and amino acids to give skin a boost and encourage the regeneration and retexturising process. This also seems promising for anyone with oily or blemish-prone skin, as with its ability to balance sebum levels without compromising the skin's pH it can leave skin comfortable without stripping it completely of the natural oils it needs.

I began by applying the mask to cleansed skin on a weekly basis, leaving it for eight to ten minutes before removing with a warm, damp muslin cloth. As the name would suggest, it's a gel-like consistency with a pleasant fruity scent. What's really unusual about this mask is that upon application, you'll experience a powerful tingling sensation. It doesn't burn or feel uncomfortable, so it's quite tolerable - if anything, it feels quite cooling, almost menthol. I would, however, advise you to proceed with caution if your skin is really sensitive, as I can imagine this might not be the most sensible choice. I have tried out many an AHA-containing product over the past year or so, and of all of them this one certainly feels like the strongest. Saying that, it definitely didn't irritate or burn my skin in any way.

The verdict? Actually, I'm sorry to say that I was somewhat underwhelmed. My skin didn't feel nearly as smooth or soft after use as I have experienced with, say, the Ren Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask or the Elemental Herbology Facial Glow Radiance Peel (review next week). I'm sure I remember reading somewhere that this mask does have something of a cumulative effect, in that the longer you have been using it on a weekly basis, the greater the difference you will notice, but for me I'm still waiting. My skin does feel comfortable and refreshed in the immediate aftermath, but the next day things are pretty much back to normal.

I have really enjoyed using some other products by Elemis, but sadly this particular one wasn't for me. Perhaps it would serve somebody with older skin a little bit better, but I'm glad I didn't pay the full price for it.

Have you tried any resurfacing treatments? 

What are your favourite Elemis skincare products?

xx

Week in Pictures

1. Sushi for lunch with the hubby at the new shopping mall that opened this week

2. Having a sneaky Friday lunchtime pamper session with the L'oreal Mythic Oil hair mask and Elemis Tri-Enzyme Gel Mask

3. One of the week's healthy breakfasts - homemade orange, carrot, beetroot, spinach, acerola cherry and ginger juice, and greek yoghurt with banana and almonds.

4. Bit of a Saturday selfie - first time I've been able to curl my hair in ages as it's been so dry and damaged.

5. Simple Saturday makeup

6. A naughty McFlurry following the sushi lunch at the mall...not one for McDonalds but these are the very occasional exception.

7. Snuggled up in bed with tea, biscuits and my blog reading list on Friday evening.

8. Relaxing in the garden hammock at sunset.

9. Feeling ill on Monday so catching up with my Bloglovin' feed while the hubby watched sport on TV.

Hope everyone's had a lovely weekend.

xx

February Favourites

When I posted my February Favourites Video on Saturday, I did promise that, as usual, I would write up a post on my monthly favourites too. So, without further ado, here it is!

Throughout February, I was loving.....

1. Tropic Hot Bamboo Organic Smoothing Cleanser

Cream hot cloth cleansers are my favourite way to remove all the day's grime and debris from my skin, and this one is no exception. In fact, with it being organic, vegan and cruelty free, it's shot straight to the top of my most-used cleansers list.

Review here

2. Elemis Nourishing Milk Bath

I haven't got a bath in my house at present, but as I won this in a competition, I wanted to try and make use of it somehow. Luckily, when scanning the back of the bottle I noticed that it could also be used as an intense body lotion, so I've been applying it straight onto my skin when I get out of the shower. The results have been quite fantastic - full review coming up very soon.

3. Essie Smoothies Coconut & Pineapple Hand &Body Lotion

I'm not hugely fussy when it comes to hand creams, but having now discovered one that smells like Pina Coladas, this little beaut is here to stay. I love slinging it in my handbag and whipping it out when my hands are in need, as it instantly whisks me away on holiday for a second with it's tropical scent.

4. HD Brows Brow Beater Gel

I reviewed this one last week, and if you saw that then you'll know that this has fast become a staple in my daily make-up routine. Groomed brows make all the difference.

Review here

5. MUA Pro Brow Kit

For the same reasons as above, this one is also a must-have of mine, and is a snip at just £3.50. It contains three shades, which can be mixed to find the perfect match for your brows, and the lightest can also be used to highlight under the brow. It does contain a wax too, but I pass that up in favour of Brow Beater.

Review here

6. Topshop Lips in Infrared

An oldie but goodie, I've had this one since last summer, and while I've always loved it, I do remember often wondering back then if it really suited me or not. So, when I stumbled upon it at the beginning of February and quickly whipped some on, I was pleasantly surprised and have been happily sporting it ever since. It's such a bright and zingy shade, perfect for the warmer months.

7. MUA Bronzed Perfection Bronzer

This really warms up my face, and is good for contouring too. Again, it's also a huge bargain, and will last ages because the compact is just huge.

Review here

8. Mac Mineralize Skinfinish in Light Year

Last but not least, this little beaut first joined my make-up collection back in December, but it's only now that I've begun to team it with my MUA bronzer for more of a sun-kissed look that it's really come into its own. It serves as both a peachy blusher and a subtle peachy-gold highlighter at the same time, so a dusting of this on top of my cheeks and a bit of really light contouring with my bronzer and I'm sorted. I'm usually more of a  coral blush kind of girl, so this has been making a welcome change.

I hope you enjoyed having a nose into my favourites this month. What were your favourite February products?

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