Velvet Lashes: cleanser

Wednesday, 13 May 2015

Review: Boots Botanics 3 in 1 Cleansing Solution

I adore Micellar water and have tried many brands, one I picked up on the whim was the Boots Botanics Micellar 3 in 1 Cleansing Solution which you can purchase from Boots for £2.99, but hurry to boots.com as they have an offer on here.

The thing I love about Micellar water is it feels like you are literally taking your makeup off with water where there are no nasty hidden ingredients that our skin will love. This 3 in 1 cleansing solution is gorgeous, it melts my makeup away and makes my face feel so clean and refreshed. The solution is fragrance, alcohol and soap free which is great as these are not what our skin wants.

Boots, Boots skincare, Botanics skincare, Micellar water, Highstreet skincare, Review, Skincare Review

Boots Botanics range have bought out this range with the Royal Botanic Gardens as they believe flowers have an important role in making us have the skin care we all want and need which they state proves to work.

This Micellar water contains Hibiscus, which is said to be natures brightness booster, and a mild exfoliator due to its natural AHAs. This gentle flower plays a role in enabling this product to help our skin feel smooth, toned and brighter. The product is easy to use, you barely need anything on a cotton pad to wipe away your makeup as a little goes a long way, and what I love is how pure the formula is, my skin feels better for using it, as with some products I still feel my skin isn't clean, but this instantly makes my skin feel refreshed and ready for bed. I would highly recommend this product and would be one I repurchase in the future, it even made my April favourites.

Have you tried this range?

A xx

Review: Cheap Skincare! Lacura skincare

Hi Loveys!

*So here is a review I am excited to write, a review that screams cheap but blimin cheerful! This skincare range is available in Aldi, a supermarket in the UK which also has stores in Europe.

Aldi, Skincare, Review, Cleanser, Moisturiser, Cheap, Bargain, Spotty skin, Oily, Magnolia, BioEcolia, Pretty, Skin, Face mask, Gel wash, Exfoliator

Clear Effect Daily 3 in 1 Cleanser, Exfoliator and Face mask

This gentle everyday use cleanser is now a firm favourite in my skincare collection, its handy 3 in 1 use means no fussing over products and the fact that it is £2.99 means it is a must have!! When I first used the cleanser I fell in love instantly with the fresh yet floral scent, it has a creamy white formula with tiny little blue balls that act as the exfoliator. I now use this cleanser everyday after the removal of my eye makeup, it is so gentle that it acts as a cleanser and exfoliator in one. The face mask is a gentle mask that adds a glow to the skin, it balances the skins natural oils and I felt it was gentle enough to use 2-3 times a week. This product contains Magnolia and BioEcolia which helps "protect and strengthen the natural and biological defence system of the skin, helping to create a more even and radiant complexion. I would agree that it gives a radiant complexion, I love the fact it helps protect and strengthen the skin as this would help with anti-ageing, and as I am nearly 29 I can start to see the signs of ageing- literally could sob after writing that sentence! I would highly recommend this product.

Clear Effect Daily Gel Wash

This gentle gel wash is a blue non sticky gel that you apply to the skin then circulate around the skin and wash off. I tend to steer away from gel washes as have found them sticky in the past but this formula is creamy and moisturising, I was shocked at how well it cleaned my skin, I applied this and as I was rinsing my skin I could see the foundation and dirt swirl around my skin, gross I know! It states it "thoroughly removes impurities and makeup to reduce shine and greasiness", this sentence is how I would describe it! My skin has gone in oil overdrive lately so this range has been helping to control this. This product also contains BioEcolia and Magnolia, it has the same fresh yet floral scent as the 3 in 1 cleanser. £2.99.

Clear Effect Mattifying Moisturiser, Clear Effect Soothing Night Cream and Tinted Moisturiser

I thought I would add these all in the same section as they similar products. All three creams are moisturising and light, the night cream is slightly thicker but not too heavy which I like. The day cream has Magnolia and BioEcolia meaning it protects the skin and creates "immediate mattifying effect with 24 hour moisture" I would agree you do instantly get a matte skin appearance,but I am not sure that it moisturises for 24 hour, for me, as felt that by the evening my skin was ready for my makeup removed and for some night cream to be applied. The night cream contains active ingredients of balloon plant echium and sunflower oil to "sooth stressed out skin and promote suppleness overnight". I would agree, this cream didn't send my skin into oil overdrive that some can do and it calmed my skin, making it feel soft and moisturised! The tinted moisturiser again isn't too thick, its a subtle tint that adds a lovely glow to the skin, it isn't greasy and lasted quite long, it isn't something I would purchase as such as I am one to want to full coverage, but if you are looking for a tinted moisturiser that will give a light coverage and will make your skin feel super soft then this is for you! Each cream is again £2.99 an absolute bargain!!

Have you tried this range or anything else from the Lacura range?

A xx

Diary Of A Skincare Loser #4

Hi Loveys,

Hope you are all well! So entry four, how am I doing? Well I think you will all be super proud of me!!! I have been following a skincare routine!!! Heres what I have been using.

Cleanser.

Dermalogica Cleanser and Toner

I have been using Dermalogica Dermal Clay Cleanser. This is actually my mans cleanser that he uses. This cleasner is used on a damp face, apply then rinse off with luke warm water. This is a clay based cleanser that helps oily congested skin. It states it is a "unique combination of water soluble Kaolin and Green clays that absorb excess oils while extracts of Sambucus, Ivy and Lemon refine skins texture and help prevent future breakouts". This cleanser feel slightly tingly when applied, It cools the skin and leaves it feelng refreshed and clean. I certainly enjoy using this and feel my skin appears clearer and brighter.

Toner.

I have been using Dermalogica Multi-active Toner. This toner is a spray that i spritz onto the skin after it has been cleansed. This toner states it gives "critical hydration with this ultra light, refreshing facial spritzthat hydrates the skin while smoothing the surface.Moisture binding humectants plus soothing lavendar, bath mint and arnica help condition the skin and prepare it for proper moisture absorption." This toner is a cool spray that adds a refreshing splash of goodness to my skin, my skin feels clean, and non greasy. I definately want to keep using this spray which yet again is the mans!

Moisture, eye cream and lipbalm

Moisturiser.

This is the bit I am going to have to have recommendations for, I have combination skin. The night cream I had was far too heavy so started to use a sample I received in an advent calendar which is called ESPA Lift and Firm Moisturiser. It states it is an "active complex to help smooth lines, sea amber stimulates collagen and elastin." It also contains anuse and antioxidants. The moisturiser smells gorgeous, a spicy floral scent that sinks into my skin and leaves it feeling moisturised rather then greasy or heavy.

Eye cream.

I have fallen in love again with my Balance Me Eye Cream. An eye cream that calms and soothes the eye area, I find the scent prepares me for a lovely nights sleep. It states its "soothing, brightening and lifting", I would agree, though it isnt a miracle and I wouldnt any eye creams are miraculous, but I enjoy using this and feel I am looking after my ever wrinkly eye area!

Lip balm.

I have always used Balmi before bed to leave my lips soft and moisturised. I currently own the coconut and the raspberry scents. LOVE LOVE!!! They certainly leave my lips feeling super soft so would highly recommend them.

So this is my current routine.

Anything you would recommend?

A xx

Balmi Lip Balm

Diary Of A Skincare Loser #3

Hello everyone!

Last post was me hoping to organise my dressing table and routine! I certainly have done that, be proud!! So lets see how I get on with that and whilst I am trying to stick to it I am also learning about the routine, what does each step mean and why is it important? Here are my honest answers, and answers experts would give.

What did cleansing mean to me?

So first things first cleanser, I used to think cleanser was what you used to take off your makeup, it took most off and if I wanted I could do it twice to ensure all of my makeup was completely gone. I admit I have used baby wipes or 3 in 1 cleanser wipes as a quick go to. In my eyes as long as my makeup was off I thought I was doing a good job.

What would the experts say?

cleansing present participle of cleanse (Verb)

Verb

Make (something, esp. the skin) thoroughly clean: "this preparation will cleanse and tighten the skin"; "a cleansing cream". Taken from Google.

Cleansing gets rid of all the dead skin and dirt that can gather on our skin after a days work or play. Our skin needs rejuvenating, a chance to "breath", it needs to be cleansed to reduce clogging up of pores, reducing fine lines and for your skin to appear healthy and bright. It also helps boost blood circulation around the face.

What did toning mean to me?

This was something I rarely did, it was just another form of cleansing, which seemed to tighten my skin and get rid of any dirt or makeup left on my skin.

What would the experts say?

Toning helps to get rid of any dirt or cleanser left on the face. It helps restore the natural PH of the skin allowing the skin to be hydrated, which is important in reducing the appearance of fine lines.

What is eye cream?

Something my mama would always use religiously, that she applied gently under and around her eye that had a pretty smell. I started to use this now and again.

What experts would say?

Eye cream is a type of moisturiser for the eye area that helps reduce and prevent fine lines, some can reduce puffiness and discolouration.

What is moisturiser?

A cream that helps my skin feel softer and helps if certain areas are dry. Never used night cream until recently, though day cream was a regular used item.

What would the experts say?

A cream helps boost collagen that the body struggles to produce the older we get. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines. Moisturisers help to keep skin hydrated, nourished, softer and calm. This is a must for helping to give a youthful appearance.

So as you all know, I am not a skin expert, so the answers may not be exactly what an expert would say, but its my interpretation of how I have understood what they all mean and therefore how I see what an expert would say to me.

Any tips?

Axx

Compare the....facial wash cleansers!

Hello Loveys!

I am starting a new series within the field of beauty. A "Compare the..." series, where I compare two or more of the same item, such as todays where I am comparing two different branded facial cleansers, I will compare them and then rate my favourite! How does that sound? Well here it goes.

Dead Sea Spa Magik Gentle Cleansing Facial Wash

What it says This states it is a "gentle foaming wash to cleanse the skin and fight bacteria".

How to use it You add a small amount in the palm of your hands and massage onto wet face creating a lather, then rinse with warm water. It doesnt say whether you can only use this a certain amount of times, but I used this both morning and night.

Scent? This is a sweet floral scent, now I love sweet scents but this isnt a scent I am that keen on for a facial wash, I personally like washes to smell fresh and clean.

How it feels This is a soft white foam like substance that is super soft but slightly sticky if you dont apply to wet face!

After use The product felt lovely on the skin, it was so soft and felt gentle. The product removed all my makeup and dirt, I was very impressed with that aspect, but I didnt like the feeling it gave my skin afterwards, it felt like "plastic" which I know is a odd description, but I didnt like the feeling it gave my face thought it did cleanse well!

Conclusion Not too keen on the scent and feeling it gave my face after use, but if you dont mind then you would love this product as it was impressive with how it removed every trace of makeup and dirt. I would reccommend this but not sure I would repurchase. I would give this product 6/10.

Vichy Normaderm Tri Activ Cleanser.

What it says It doesnt actually say what it does so I will just explain. It is a tri activ cleanser that you can use in three ways, one as a facial cleansing wash, one as an exfoliant and one as a mask. Pretty impressive! It has no parabens, no soap and no alcohol which is super to see as these are harsh for the skin!

How to use it Apply to damp face and massage into the skin then rinse off with water.

Scent? This has a lovely fresh light floral scent that stays on the skin for quite a while, I love this scent and cant help but sniff the bottle!!

How it feels It is a slightly grainy green coloured cool thick clay like substance. When applyed to a damp face it lathers well and feels cool.

After use My skin feels slightly tighter after use which I quite like! My skin feels refreshed and awake. It removes all traces of makeup and dirt which was great as didnt have a dirty towel!

Conclusion I love the scent and how you can use this product in three different ways. It made my skin feel refreshed and clean, and with an added bonus of no parabens or alcohol it would suit even sensitive skin. I would recommend this and repurchase. The only thing I am not keen on is the packaging, its not very clear and has many translations on the back. 9/10.

And the winner is......

VICHY NORMADERM TRI ACTIV CLEANSER!!

Have you got a favourite facial cleasning wash or have you tried any of the products I have reviewed?

A xx

November Favourites 2012

Hope you enjoy lovelies! Would love to know what you think and thanks for subscribing and commenting!
A xx

Glossybox august!

Hi!!
So i recieved my Glossybox the other week and have been trying out the goodies! Yet again I wasnt let down and got so excited unveiling the gorgeously (is that even a word?!) wrapped box.

The theme this month was "International Superstars" so products from around the world. In my box I recieved the following items.

Deep cleansing oil by DHC. This product states it is "a water-soluble cleanser that is better than any other make-up remover you've ever tried." Now thats quite a bold statement to make! I was a little worried as thought the product would make my combination skin type greasy and oily, but it didnt! It has a light herby scent that feels gorgeous on the skin, you put it on dry skin, massage in then rinse. It is fab I have to admit, but I wouldnt say it is the best ever as I still end up with some makeup on which goes onto the towel I use. Still a good cleanser though, maybe I need to work it more into my skin. 7/10.

Alessandro pro white polish. This product states it is a "Optically brightening effect nail polish with anti-yellowing formula for radiant white and gleaming nails".
I put this on my nails the other day, it was easy to put on and it did appear to make my nails look healthier. They appeared brighter and healthier. It goes on like a clear nailvarnish. One thing I will say is it really smells strongly of nailvarnish!!! More then most polishes! 8/10.

All for Eve for the Eve appeal Eves balm. This states "Eves balm is an easily absorbed recovery balm to nourish chapped skin".
This product instantly reminded me of Elizabeth Ardens 8 hour cream. It smelt similar and gave me a similar effect. The balm nourished my lips and i also used it on my heels. My lips felt moisterised and soft, though my heels were still dry it took the "edge" of the dryness away for a short period. 5/10.

Vera Valenti L'ombre a Paupiere Margarita eyeshadows. This palette states it is "offering a selection of ten different colours with an applicator included". I have to admit I wasnt overly impressed with this. The applicator did not apply the shadows well, the colours did not have much pigment and did not last long. The colours were tones of green and browns with a highlighter. Was not impressed. 2/10.

Lipcote states its the "original lipstick sealer and secret of long lasting, feather fade and water resistant lipstick". This certainly works, my lipstick lasted long and had lasted through my cup of tea and biscuit treat when normally the particular brand of lipstick I used would not do this. 8/10.

Glossybox, Glossybox lipstick in Glossy Pink. Full size. "Professional beauty lipstick for soft and glamorous lips with a luminous, long-lasting colour".
This is now my favourite brand of lipstick!!! It used to be MAC but boy does this do what it says it does! I applied the lipstick in the morning and after a cuppa, lunch and drinks it was still on!! The colour was gorgeous and my lips felt soft! Definately recommend this! 10/10!!

Hope you enjoyed this months review of Glossybox! See pictures of the products, hope they are either below or above! Am doing this on my phone so fingers crossed! :).

A x

Day cream! Supermarket bargains!

Morning!
So I have used up my dirty works moisturiser from sainsburys! Boo! I loved it!! It was £5.99 and i thought why not try a cheaper one an see the results. So off i trot to Aldi, where they have an award winning day cream at...wait for it.....£1.89!! Can you believe it?!? But does it give good results? It was featured on Gok Wans how to look good naked and had great reviews, beat the expensive brands so thought I would give it a go.

Lacura from Aldis states it is "aqua-complete moisturiser with hyaluronic acid complex and hydrating minerals for all skin types". I tried it for the first time this morning and so far I liked it, it has a fresh scent, like cucumbers, glides on and left my skin feeling soft. Will see how it goes and let you guys know!

A x