Monday 6 August 2012

B Is For Beauty: Beauty Favourites & Reviews July

 Beauty Favourites July


Yes To Tomatoes Skin Clearing Facial Mask 48g (11.99)

What it claims to do
This product claims to be "a total deep pore treatment that refines, purifies and even moisturises your skin, while keeping your complexion clean, clear and balanced. Filled with potent anti-oxidants that fight free radicals, and bursting with powerful sebum (acne-causing oil) absorbers". It contains 98% natural ingredients.

How To Use
The product doesn't advise how often to use but I use this once a week or twice a week if I have a bad breakout. The packaging advises leaving this on for 5 mins ( I prefer 10 mins) and to remove with a hot flannel.



Price value

This isn't the cheapest mask at £11.99, and on opening the packaging I was a bit shocked to see how small the tub actually was. However upon trying it I realised how thin it applies and it actually lasted about 2 months, so it does go quite along way.

Packaging
Considering the price the packaging is just cheap tub. The box it comes in is a lot larger than the actual container.

Consistency
It is a very white thick paste with a lovely scent. It spreads out easily and doesn't flake off like some masks

The results
I really liked this mask. I saw a definite improvement in my skin even after the first try. It definitely reduces and heals breakouts as well as reducing the oil in your skin. I'm not sure if I noticed a reduction in pore size but after use it does leave my skin a lot brighter and healthier looking.

Who's this for & Would I buy again
This is a product that I would only recommended to people with Oily/ Acne prone skin. It is drying and would be bad for someone with dry or normal skin types. It is however nonirritating so would be fine to use if you have sensitive skin. For me it is definitely a repurchase as it was right for my skin type. I initially wanted to buy the Yes To Tomatoes Cleanser but chose the mask instead, after the pleasing results of the mask I will be looking into the cleanser as well. This was the first Yes To product I'd tried and I am interested in trying out a few of the other ranges.



Review 9/10
Available here



High Potency Night A Mins® Mineral enriched moisture lotion 50ml- £30

What it claims to do
Formulated with extra vitamins, extra minerals and a gentle exfoliating extract. Helps skin repair while you sleep to reveal a brighter, more youthful texture and tone.

How to use
The product recommends apply over face and throat at night time. I use this every other night or every night if I have scarring/ discolouration.

Price Value
This is not the most inexpensive product on the market but is the standard price for a Origins. The product and Origins products in general last along time and are effective, so I'd say yes it is good value for money.
Packaging
Small plastic bottle in a box. I like the bottle but it's a bit difficult to get the product out.
Consistency
This formula is really light, much like a serum. It has a beautiful citrus scent which stays even after applied
Results
This is amazing. It leaves the skin feeling really soft, moisturised but not greasy. In the morning my complexion is alot brighter. And I have seen a definite reduction in the time it takes for my skin to help/ scars to fade.
Who's this for. Would I buy again
This version is for oily skin types, there is the original cream version for dry/ normal skin. It's very light so does not aggravate the skin or leave it greasy. I bought this on sale but haven't been able to find it on the Origins website so I'm not sure if they're discontinuing it. However Origins have recently released an oil free form of the original cream for oily skin types.
Review 9/10
Still available Here
Cream Version (oil free) - 100ml £32 available Here
Origins Brighter by Nature SPF 35 Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer 50ml- £35
What it claims to do
This clinically-proven protective moisturiser helps to restore clarity and brightness to dull, uneven skin.
Of course it’s not a laser treatment, but this clinically proven protective moisturiser with skin-illuminating Japanese Basil Leaf, Cucumber, Peony and Vitamin C plus nature’s brilliant new advance, Palmaria, works at lightning speed to help restore clarity and brightness to dull, uneven skin. It’s even formulated with SPF 35 to prevent new spots from forming.

How to use
The product recommends using am and pm but I just use this in the day time.
Price Value
This is a bit expensive but it is worth the money. The jar is pretty big and you only need a small amount of product so should last a few months.
Packaging
Nice easy to open jar, quite heavy though so not best for travelling.
Consistency
Medium thick cream with a citrus type smell, applies light though not heavy at all.
Results
This definitely does what it says. The moisturiser leaves your skin hydrated and visibly improves imperfections. It feels really nice on the skin, very light and the scent is amazing. The added SPF 35 is also really good, usually moisturisers only offer SPF 15, so this is a great choice for Summer time. I was so impressed by this that I purchased it in serum form too which I now use with the moisturiser.

Who is this for. Would I buy again
This is recommended for all skin types. I'd recommend it as a good choice if you have oily skin as it's very light. It's a great moisturiser for Summer time as it has a high SPF. If your worried about scars/ imperfections then you should definitely try this, it gives noticeable results in the first week of using.
This is my new favourite day moisturiser and I will be repurchasing.


Review 10/10

Available Here



Origins Brighter By Nature Skin Tone Correcting Serum 30ml- £34
What it claims to do
Skin tone correcting serum. It`s true brightness with no regrets.
This clinically proven plant serum with naturally-derived Vitamin C helps create more even skin tone and zaps the appearance of dullness, dark spots and discolourations. Cucumber and Japanese Basil Leaf help prevent future spotting and freckling. There's no scarring or scorching skin. No downtime, no hefty price tag. It's true brightness, with no regrets. Eliminates dark spots and discolourations. Helps prevent new spots from forming. Gently exfoliates skin to erase dullness. Skin appears vibrant, radiant and even-toned.
How to use
The product recommends using am and pm used with your regular moisturiser. I use this just in the morning with the matching moisturiser. One pump is enough to cover the face.
Price Value
This is expensive and the bottle is very small. I got this in a set and I'm not sure I would buy this unless it was on offer just because it is expensive.
Packaging
Nice easy to bottle with a pump. It is very light plastic which is cheap considering the cost. It is very light though so good for travel. If I can't carry the larger moisturiser version I take this with me instead.
Consistency
Very light like most serums. Has a similar scent to the other products in the line.

Results
I always use this with the moisturiser so I'm not sure how effective it is on it's own at combating imperfections. However it does add extra glow to my complexion and leaves the skin very soft and smooth.
Who is this for. Would you buy again
This is suitable for all skin types. Because this is expensive I'd only recommend this if you have skin imperfections or very dull skin that you wish to combat. If you have an even skin tone you could probably find a cheaper serum on the market that works for you. I like using this with the matching moisturiser to get the ultimate effect of the product and speed up the healing process of scars, but if you only wanted to buy one I'd recommend the moisturiser as it is cheaper, lasts longer and offers the same benefits. The serum however is better for travel as it's smaller and the packaging is lighter. Not sure I'd pay full price for this but I'd repurchase if it was on offer in a gift set. I'd prefer a cheaper alternative.

Review 9/10

Available Here




Neal's Yard Remedies Rehydrating Rose Daily Moisture (100ml)- £22.50


What it claims to do
Neal’s Yard Rehydrating Rose Daily Moisture is a replenishing lotion ideal for normal and dehydrated skin. Rich in skin protecting antioxidants, damask and hundred petalled roses, with soya and calendula oils, it helps restore the skin’s radiance.
Created to infuse the skin with the nutrients required to support good health and a radiant complexion, the softening Neal’s Yard Rehydrating Rose Daily Moisture is a light and easily absorbed lotion. Essential fatty acids from pure plants oils are combined with a double action rose formulation to soothe and balance the skin while moisture boosting hyaluronic acid gives your skin a dewy freshness.
How to use
The product advises to use directly after cleansing. I've been using this mainly as a night time moisturizer or when my skin feels a little dryer. You need a very tiny amount as it spreads out very easily.
Price Value
I got this free in a beauty box so was the smaller 45ml size (which is estimated at £11). It lasted about two months so I thought that was pretty good value. I think this size is only available in gift sets. The full size is quite expensive but I think it would be good value for money as you need a tiny amount when using and it should last a few months.
Packaging
I received a tube sample of the product which was pretty basic. I really like the look of the full size packaging it looks alot more expensive and has a handy pump which should make application alot easier
Consistency
This is a very light moisturizer with strong rose scent. You need alot less product than usual moisturizers as it spreads out alot. If you use two much it's quite hard to get it to sink in.

Results
This was the first Neal's Yard product I'd tried and I was very impressed. It's not usually a brand I'd consider but after receiving this sample I've decided to try a few products out from the line. The moisturiser is very hydrating and would be perfect for Winter months or if you have quite dry skin.

Who's this for. Would I buy again.
This is recommended for normal skin types but the product claims it is especially good for dryer skin. I love rose scented products and really enjoyed using this, but after looking at the Neal's Yard line I would have probably preferred to use a moisturizer specifically for oily skin (Palmarosa is recommended for oily skin). Saying that this product was very light and non greasy so didn't aggravate my skin or make it oily. This product uses organic ingredients which I like as I've noticed a difference in my skin after using more organic based products. I will be purchasing a few more products from the Neal's Yard line but probably from a different line that's more suited to my skin type.

Review 8/ 10

Available Here

or in a smaller (45 ml) size as part of set Here

and currently as a free gift Here


Click for enlarged view

Coconut Beautifying Oil 100ml- £9.00


What it claims to do
Beautifying Oil is pure beauty in a bottle. Made with a lightweight blend of nut oils including Community Fair Trade marula oil, it gives instant hydration and a shimmering finish. This one has a totally tropical coconut scent.

How to use
The product can be used on face, hair or body. And can be applied to either damp or dry skin/ hair. You only need very small amount. I've been using this on wet hair when I leave it to air dry or on the ends when its dry. It can also be used as a hair mask. I also add a few drops to my bath as well as rubbing a small amount on my skin. A small amount can also be applied as a face oil or as a mask.

Price Value
A great price for a multi-purpose product. It really goes along way so will last for months. Excellent value for money.
Packaging
Comes in a small plastic bottle. Easy to remove product. Good size for travel.
Results
I love coconut scents and the strong smell from this product really lasts which makes it especially enjoyable to use. On hair I like to apply this when its wet and let it air dry. I have curly hair and it nourishes my hair and smooths down any frizz. However when blow drying with the oil it weighs the hair down alot and can look greasy. You do really have to be sparing with the quantity and void the roots. dding a small amount to my bath or apply directly to my skin leaves my body feeling very soft, nicely scented but not greasy like some oils. I was a bit sceptical to try this on my face but was pleasantly surprised. it didn't irritate my skin at all and did not clog my pores. It's nice to use at night time to relieve dehydrated or tired skin. It leaves your face feeling very soft and smooth. This could also be used a moisture mask for the same effect.

Who's this for. Would I buy again
This product advises that is suitable for ll skin types. I'm sure this would be perfect if you suffer from dry skin as it's very nutritioning. I do think that it feels oilier than most oils on my face but it doesn't clog pores or aggravate the skin. I think it's probably better to use as a night time treatment. In terms of hair if you have thin or oily hair this is probably best not used as a styling aid as it can make hair look greasy very easily and weigh it down making it look flat. I'd recommend using it as an overnight hair mask instead. if you have normal/ dry hair this should be suitable to use but be very sparing when applying and avoid the roots. I'm along way off from finishing this but will probably repurchase. It comes in a range of other scents; Moringa, Shea, Cocoa Butter , Sweet Lemon , Strawberry, Mango, Satsuma, Pink Grapefruit, Olive, Chocomania, so I may try a different one on the next purchase.

Review 8/10

Available Here





Botanics Botanics Skin Brightening Toner 250ml- RRP £3.99


What it claims to do
Botanics Skin Brightening Toner is a gentle toner that sweeps away every last trace of cleanser and brightens your complexion while also working to refine pores and minimise excess oil.
How to use
Product advises sweeping over face after cleansing. I use this as my day time toner
Price Value
This is a large bottle especially for the low price. I've been using this for a few months and have barely made a dent.

Packaging
Simple plastic bottle. Nothing special but easy to pour out. Not best size for travel.
Consistency
Water like consistency with a floral style smell.
Results
I was really impressed with this especially because of how cheap it was. Previously I'd been using an expensive toner, and although there was nothing wrong with it there wasn't anything special about it to be paying £20 every couple of months. So this was the first cheaper brand I've tried in over 10 years. I'm not sure if I noticed it refining oil or shrinking pores but it really does leave the skin looking brighter and more radiant. It's refreshing and not harsh on the skin. The scent is also something I really like about it, a clean refreshing scent.
Who's it for. Would I buy again
This is aimed at oily skin types and does contain alcohol so maybe not the best product for dryer skin tones, although I did not feel harsh on my skin type. Nice product if your after a brightening toner at a good price. Unfortunately Boots have re branded their Botanics line so this is unavailable on line (some may still be in stores) and I'm not sure they are bringing it back. There are a few sites though that still have it t a similar price. This would have been a product I would have repurchased if easily available at Boots, but if it's not brought back I might try the Rose Toner Spray which seems pretty similar.

Review 8/10

Still available Here




Superdrug Naturals Shampoo Tea Tree & Peppermint 300ml- £0.99


What it claims to do
Let nature do the work with Superdrug Te Tree & Peppermint Shampoo for normal hair. Richly formulated with natural extracts of anti-bacterial tea tree and invigorating peppermint to gently remove everyday residue. Leaves your hair feeling clean and looking soft and healthy.
How To Use
Everyday shampoo for normal hair. Advises repeat washing for extra cleanliness and in conjunction with the matching conditioner. I use this as a daily shampoo.
Price Value
At 99p this is a great value for money product especially for how good it is.
Packaging
Average looking bottle, has a filter on the neck to control the amount of product that comes out. Nothing fancy but it is very cheap.
Consistency
Green gel like formula with a very strong Tea Tree/ Peppermint scent.
Results
I wasn't expecting much from this product because of how cheap it was, but picked it up on an impulse as I love peppermint scents. I was really surprised at how good it was especially for 99p. It really leaves your hair squeaky clean and smells amazing.

Who's it for. Would I buy again.
The product advises use on normal hair but because of how squeaky clean it leaves your hair and scalp I'd say it would be excellent for oily hair too. This is my new favourite cheap shampoo for everyday use. I'll definitely be picking this up again and will probably get the matching conditioner too.

Review 9/10

Available Here


Origins Never A Dull Moment Skin-Brightening Face Cleanser

Origins Never A Dull Moment
Skin-brightening Face Cleanser (150ml) £17.00


What it claims to do
Melts makeup, dirt and debris to banish bleakness. With each passing year skin's ability to do its own daily slough of surface stuff slows down. Skin can look mighty drab and dreary. So we blended extract of crushed Papaya, with creamy cleansers to create a lush-lathering, fruit-smoothie of a face wash. Simply swirl it over splashed-moist skin and watch how swiftly it disposes of dingy, dried up cells, makeup, dirt and debris to totally banish bleakness. Skin emerges with a fresh, radiant sheen. Feels sleek and silky-smooth, never stripped-dry.
How to use

Product advises using several times weekly; more often if skin acts oily. Wet palms and lather up. Massage over moist skin in a circular motion. Rinse. Pat dry. I use this as a day time cleanser, daily.



Price Value
This is by no means the cheapest cleanser on the market but the Origins cleansers in general are extremely good value for money. They last a long time as a little goes along way and are very effective cleansers.
Packaging
Standard tube, it's also see through so you can see how much is left.
Consistency
Almost clear like formula with a very strong citrus scent. A 5p size amount really lathers up and covers the hole face.

Results
This is a really refreshing cleanser with the most heavenly scent. Origins Checks and Balances has always been a firm favourite of mine but this is equally as good. It lathers up really easily; some people don't seem to like that quality to Origins cleansers but that's one of my favourite qualities. I've been using the travel size of this I got in a set and it's lasted over 2 months so the full size should last a fair few months. I like to use this in the morning as it has a very refreshing effect and leaves the skin noticeably brighter and more radiant.

Who's this for. Would I buy again
The product advises that this is for oily skin types so may be too striping if you have dry skin. It's a great product if you have scarred/ acne prone skin as it makes a clear difference to skin tone and oil reduction. Also If you like citrus smells then you'll love this product. I will be repurchasing this and making it my regular face cleanser along with Checks & Balances.


Review 10/10

Available Here



Champneys Spa Treatments Relaxing Dream Bath 300ml- £6.00

What it claims to do

This wonderfully fragrant dream bath, from Champneys Spa Treatments, combines gentle cleansers to soften your skin and infuses lavender and patchouli plus pure essential oils, to help you relax and let your tensions float away.

How to use

Add a few drops to your bath. I like to use this before bed to relax.

Price Value

More expensive than standard drug store bubble bath but good value for a Spa product.

Packaging

Screw top plastic bottle, easy to pour. Nothing fancy

Results

This has a lovely lavender scent that is really relaxing. A small amount adds alot of bubbles too.

Who's it for.Would I buy again.

I love lavender bath products to use at bedtime or to relax. This is great if you want to unwind and want to treat yourself to a more expensive bath product. It would be better to use with the other matching products in the Dream line. I would buy this again but I'll probably try another scent to see what the other lines are like

Review 8/10

Available Here

No comments: