Top 3 Micellar Waters

You may have read my Soap & Glory Micellar Water Review and after positive feedback, I thought I'd share my favourite bunch of Micellar cleansers with all you wonderful beauty addicts! I've previously mentioned that I find, along with many, that make-up removal can be a tiresome task. But since the 2015 micellar explosion, I've been converted and unless something miraculous emerges, I don't think I'll be reaching for your average Joe make-up remover any time soon... It's simple, easy and most importantly, fast! Prices vary from a couple of quid to £20 plus (?!) but is there really a significant difference between the brands? I feel like I've tried every version of Micellar water from Bioderma to Simple but it's safe to say that these are my top three! 

Soap & Glory Drama Clean

I'm currently on my third bottle of this magical 'de-clog water' and since using it my skin is more supple, less irritated and clearer (probably because it actually removes each spec of make-up). It also contains vitamin A and C; well renowned goodness for healthier, younger looking skin and it's infused with a variety of beneficial juices such as, cucumber which leaves your skin feeling fresh and aloe vera to soothe and hydrate. I must admit I do like scented products and this has a fresh cucumber and peach fragrance; which I love! In fact, I like it so much I actually look forward to removing my make-up now and the best aspect is it leaves no residue or make-up traces just fresh, clean skin. 

Garnier Skin Naturals

This hypoallergenic non-oily cleansing water easily removes make-up and impurities, without vigorous rubbing. It's not a complex solution, with added vitamins but it does exactly what it says on the tin; removes make-up. This product comes in a generous 400ml bottle (or travel sized) so I found it lasted absolutely ages! Plus, it's fragrance free so perfect for those with sensitive skin. I find it easily removes even waterproof mascara, without causing irritation to the eye area and there's no need to rinse. I also found my skin was mattified after each use so for all my fellow oil-skin sufferers, this product is definitely worth a try!

Nivea Daily Essentials

At just a few quid a bottle, this is the most affordable product so if your watching the pennies, this won't break the bank! I would recommend this to young/ teenage skin and those with normal/ sensitive skin as it's gentle formula soothes and hydrates as it cleanses. Similarly, to my other to favs, it gently removes make-up quickly and efficiently. It makes my skin feel squeaky clean after use but I do find I have to use more of this product than other Micellar waters I've tried.

L'Oreal Pure Clay Purity Mask

After L'Oreal's convincing multi-mask range beamed through my television screen, it was one of those eye widening moments and I instantly HAD to try one! The range consists of three unique clay masks designed to purify, detox or illuminate. You can even use them together, in a 'multi-masking' technique, to target specific areas of your skin such as, the purifying mask on your oily T-Zone along side the glow mask on your cheeks (why we haven't thought of this before?!) After rushing to my local Boots to purchase one (while they're still on promo offer) of course they were sold out... Since then, I've managed to get my hands on the Pure Clay Purity Mask, specially formulated with Eucalyptus, to purify and mattify oily skin.

It has a thick consistency but smells very fresh and clean and is easy to apply. I massaged it into my face before applying a thicker layer and allowed it to dry for 10 minutes. As the product was drying, my skin did feel quite tight but it didn't feel uncomfortable and I didn't experience any heat, tingling or itchiness. Once it was dry, I used a a warm flannel to remove the mask. Admittedly, it's not the easiest of masks to remove but I didn't have to vigorously scrub. Normally, after using a face mask I find my skin tone is slightly red so I was surprised to see that I wasn't left with redness just clean, fresh skin. Plus, my pores felt tighter.

I've used this mask twice in the last 5 days and have noticed my skin does seem less oily and more mattified. I think the affects would last with continual use but I wouldn't be surprised if the oily-ness returned if I stopped using it. I've also found any spots I had have gone and there doesn't seem to be any new ones waiting to surface. I'll definitely be purchasing the detox mask next and really give multi-masking a go!

Soap & Glory Favourites!

One thing I always make sure I set aside time for is a cheeky pamper sesh'. Whether it's 10 minutes or a full hour, a pamper session with my favorite products is not only a great way to de-stress but it makes me feel like a whole new person; not to mention the physical health benefits. Soap & Glory are renowned for their unique, modern take on a 'read all about it!' style and with their eye catching designs and cleverly worded packaging, it's no wonder why so many people are drawn to the brand. The best part? Their products really are as good as they look and what's more, the smell even better!

Smoothie Star Deep Moisture Body Milk

Although it's a body milk, it's actually very thick, almost like a body butter. Blended with cocoa butter, shea butter and coconut oil (need I say more) it divinely moisturises your skin, leaving it feeling irresistibly soft. After just a few uses I noticed a significant difference in the softness of my skin and thanks to the oats, yogurt and honey it conditions your skin for added silky-ness! The lotion absorbs quickly, doesn't feel sticky and doesn't leave a long lasting residue (big factor for me) but it's the scent that won me over. The actual scent is 'almond, outs and brown sugar' which smells like milk and cookies with a hint of almonds.  

Clean on Me Clarifying Shower Gel

A classic from the range and a favourite among many, 'Clean on Me' has been on the shelves for a while now but it's safe to say it hasn't lost it's credible reputation. It has the signature Soap & Glory scent which is fresh, sweet and feminine. What's more, it's blended with body lotion for smooth, sexy skin every time. I love it because it gives you a thick lather, with plenty of bubbles and feels luxurious. 

Scrub 'Em and Leave 'Em Body Buff

  Now, I love a scrub of any kind and whether it's for your face, body or feet I always feel like they're really 'doing something'. Removing dead skin cells is essential for our body's skin cell renewal system and it also helps to hydrate the deeper layers of our skin when moisturising. With it's delectable scent, 'Scrub 'Em and Leave 'Em' is best described as a sugar scrub. It's not vigorous or harsh so suitable to use regularly. Infused with jojoba and mandarin oils, it hydrates your skin whilst it buffs and although it leaves a slight residue, it's not annoying or sticky; I actually quite like it as it makes my skin feel soft and adds a certain healthy sheen.

Neeks ☯

When The Body Shop Brings You Argan Oil

Aloha!

Most of us have grown accustomed to the large array of so called 'miracle oils' that have flooded our beauty counters and there is one for every skin type, occasion and purpose. We have oils such as coconut, almond, hemp seed, jojoba, moringa, tea tree and even olive oil; all on a mission to to deliver the promise of having beautiful skin (and hair). Although, I have no doubt that these oils are beneficial, I do think it's easy to become swept up in the latest oil trend and have high expectations. So, argan oil. Is it just another fad? Or are they onto something... 

Argan oil was primitively, a tribal ingredient, found in Morroco before it exploded onto our shelves with numerous articles and adverts singing it's praises. But why argan oil? Why not coconut oil... or jojoba oil? I needed to find out and we all know the best way of doing so is to try it. Now, I know you can get the little tubes of argan oil at the til in Primark (for about £1!) but I felt like splashing out on this so I headed to The Body Shop, where I purchased the shower gel, body lotion, body scrub and not to my surprise they were on offer (The Body Shop always seem to have offers on). 

Wild Argan Oil Shower Gel

This soap-free shower gel gives you loadsa bubbles (v. important) and surprisingly a little goes a long way. After using it I felt very clean and it didn't dry out my skin or cause any irritation. I don't know how I would describe what argan oil smells like but it's unusual, not too sweet and almost edible. Basically, it's lush. 

Wild Argan Oil Body Lotion

I think when people hear 'oil' in a body lotion it can sometimes put them off as they feel it could be greasy or leave a residue or not absorb very well. This body lotion absorbs almost instantly, it leaves my skin feeling super soft, supple and even gives it a slight glow. It doesn't cause my clothes to cling and my skin feels hydrated and smooth. 

Wild Argan Oil Body Scrub

I've always been obsessed with The Body Shops body scrubs and this one was no exception. It's vigorous without being too harsh and easily lifts dead skin cells, whilst replenishing my skin; leaving it feeling revitalised. For some reason this didn't feel like I was using a regular body scrub, it felt like more of a treat and although it left a slight residue, it wasn't greasy at all. 

After using these products for a while I can definitely see what all the hype is about. The high vitamin E content and fatty acids are the science behind why this oil has immense hydration powers and the anti oxidants found in this oil also promote healing so this would be ideal for someone with very dry, irritated skin or even Eczema suffers. Furthermore, I tend to get odd blemishes on my shoulders but since using this soothing formula, it's barley noticeable. I've also noticed my legs are less irritated after a shave them which is great as it's something I've always battled with. My skin feels more supple and as argan oil increases skin elasticity, there's no reason why this couldn't benefit those with stretch marks or even promote anti aging. My verdict? Not a fad but a fabulous find.

Neeks ☯

Soap & Glory Drama Clean 5 in 1 Micellar Water

Aloha!

Now, I don't know about you but removing my make-up is SUCH a chore! Unless I'm stumbling in at 3 am or at a festival, I've never been a make-up wipe kinda gal. In fact, I hardly ever buy them and on the rare occasion I do use them, I find myself using three or four wipes whilst begrudgingly scrubbing my skin until my eyes are filled with mascara goop and my face is red. Trust me, it looks fab! When I was a teenager I used to use them all the time but after reading about how face wipes can cause PH imbalance and make acne worse I decided to throw in the towel and opt for a 'proper' make-up remover. For months I've been using the Nivea Double Effect Eye Make-Up remover and the L'Oreal Dermo-Expertise make-up remover which was sufficient enough until I stumbled upon this... 

Soap & Glory Drama Clean 5 in 1 Micellar Cleansing Water 

I believe Bioderma were the first to launch their unique micellar water and that set the bench mark for competing brands such as Vichy, Garnier and Simple; which lead to the 2015 micellar explosion! To be honest, I never jumped on the band wagon and didn't see what all the fuss was about but a 3 for 2 offer at Boots enticed me to pick this up and I've never looked back. It removes all of my eye/ facial make-up without endless scrubbing and two or three cotton pads will do the job. Lately, I've been using my all time favorite foundation, Estee Lauder double wear and those of you who've used this will understand the importance of removing the removing the 15 hour strong foundation properly. This micellar water turns my chore into a breeze and instantly 'magnetizes' make-up, dirt and impurities without a trace.

 I'm currently on my third bottle of this magical 'de-clog water'and since using it my skin is more supple, less irritated and clearer (probably because it actually removes each spec of make-up). It also contains vitamin A and C; well renowned goodness for healthier, younger looking skin and it's infused with a variety of beneficial juices such as, cucumber which leaves your skin feeling fresh and aloe vera to soothe and hydrate. I must admit I do like scented products and this has a fresh cucumber and peach fragrance; which I love! In fact, I like it so much I actually look forward to removing my make-up now and the best aspect is it leaves no residue or make-up traces just fresh, clean skin. 

Neeks ☯

The Body Shop Tea Tree Range

Aloha!

Catching your shiny complexion half way through the day, waking up to yet another spot, blocked open pores and coming home to realise you've lost half your carefully crafted eye brow. Sound familiar? I have always had problematic skin and feel as if I'm on a never ending quest to find something, just SOMETHING that will actually make the slightest bit of difference. You see I like to imagine my skin is a dress. A dress that I'm going to have to wear for the rest of my life, if this were the case you'd look after it right? Now there are a flood load of brands specifically formulated for spot prone skin; the likes of Freederm, Clearasil and Garnier Pure Active... I'm sure there are many people that would swear by these products but in my experience, I've found that these potions contain chemicals and micro-beads which are too harsh on your skin and often, in my case, make it a whole lot worse. At this point I was willing to try anything and that's when I turned to the Body Shop and before I knew it, one small bottle of tea tree lead to the whole range and these are my top 6!

Tea Tree Facial Wash

A little goes a long way with this gel like formula and it even comes in a gentle foam version. I use it twice a day and after six weeks, I still have half the bottle left. It cleanses whilst removing impurities, leaving your skin smooth and soft, without drying it out. What I love the most is that it makes your skin feel squeaky clean and is very refreshing to use; perfect for waking you up in the morning!

Tea Tree Facial Toner

Okay so I'm a BIG toner fan, to the point where I'm worried if I forget to use it (irrational I know). When you cleanse your face your pores naturally open which makes it easier to remove the impurities. However, if you moisturise without toning beforehand, you run the risk of the dreaded large pores. Toning helps to tighten the pores and prevent any nasty bacteria or make-up clogging them up. I bought this toner about a year ago and absolutely swear by it, this light and slightly tingling formula is the ultimate refresh and doesn't leave a residue. 

Tea Tree Skin Clearing Lotion

I usually apply this at night time, I wouldn't say it's a miracle product but if I already have blemishes it certainly helps to calm my skin. I've used other products in the past which arguably do heal my spots but these often dry my skin out. This lotion delivers light hydration and I find after use my spots are noticeably less red/ inflamed and on extra troublesome days I'll use it under my make-up as it has mattifiying shine control properties (they also do another lotion specifically for night time).

Tea Tree Pore Minimiser

Before I apply my make-up I always use some kind of pore minimiser. Whether it's Maybelline's Pore Eraser or Benefit's POREfessional, it's a must have for me. Pore 'erasers' are great for a quick fix but if you actually want to solve the problem, rather than masking it, I would definitely recommend this. This doubles up as an mattifying primer, is infused with tea tree oil and minimises pores. Since using this I have definitely noticed a difference in the size of pores, even when I'm not wearing make-up. 

Tea Tree Clay Mask

I love face masks, not even to improve my skin but just as a way to relax. The only trouble with me is I forget I'm wearing them and before I know it my skin feels tight, irritated and the mask begins to crack. This mask however, is unique as it doesn't dry out and I absolutely love that. It's thick consistency tingles for a bit when you initially put it on so it feels like it's 'doing something'. It also absorbs excess oil and soothes irritated skin, perfect for when my face needs a little pick me up, I'm run down (or hungover). It's not the easiest of masks to wash off but with warm water and a flannel you're skin will be feeling soft, supple and hydrated. 

Tea Tree Blemish Gel

So this lip gloss type applicator allows you to perfectly pin point the blemish. When I first tried this, it didn't look like anything had actually transfered onto my face but in the morning the blemish had reduced in size, was less red and had completely dried out. Plus it's a lot more discrete than a massive blob of Sudocrem.

  Of course, if you're not a fan of the tea tree scent I would like to highlight that obviously these products smell like tea tree but the scent isn't overpowering. I actually find it quite fresh and after a while you do get used to it. Plus for the sake of a few minutes I think it's totally worth it. This range has made such a difference in my skin quality and I don't have to worry about any nasty chemicals. It's suitable for sensitive skin, I don't have as many spots and my skin it less oily. Ah, the power of tea tree! 

Neeks ☯

Current Skin Care Favs

Aloha!

Whilst I was brain storming post ideas, it suddenly came to my attention, that it's been a very long time since I've posted about skin care. I mean I'll mention products in 'Empties' posts and such like but it's been a while since a whole post has been dedicated to skin care products. I think it's because once I find a routine that works well for me it's a big risk to change products (my skin is so problematic- agr!) . However, lately I have been using some new products that certainly deserve a shout out! 

I'll begin with a classic fav, the St-Ives Invigorating Apricot Facial Scrub. I'm sure you've had enough of me singing it's praises, so I won't bore you with the same old song, BUT this as been my go-to facial scrub for years now and although I've tried other brands they just don't have the same effect this one does. It's 100% natural exfoliants remove all your dead skin cells without damaging the surface of your skin. I know I say this every time but I wouldn't recommend using this every day, as it can harm your skins natural repairing system so I'd say two-three times a week is more than enough. For those of you that like a vigorous scrub, this is for you! It will leave your skin feeling fresh, soft and radient without causing increased sensitivity or dryness. I personally prefer to use it in the morning, as it contributes to a smoother base, for when I apply my make-up but you could use it at night time as well. 

Next I've been loving the Etre Belle Aloe Vera Ultra Moisturising Gel which I actually got in my May Glossybox. This gel doesn't really have a scent other than the generic 'clean' smell. I've been using it instead of my usual night moisturiser for about three weeks now and found that my skins seems to be a lot fresher and brighter when I wake up in the morning. I feel like it really hydrates the deep layers of my skin (Dermis) which initially I didn't expect as it is very lightweight.The only downside to this product is it's fairly expensive for a 40ml bottle and I don't think it's suitable to use as a make-up base as, when I tried it, the slight residue it left on my skin made it harder to apply my foundation. 

For those evenings when my skin could do with a little pampering I use the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. I have a friend, who works in John Lewis, and she said that everyone absolutely loves this cleanser! I was surprised as I'd never heard of it until recently (clearly I've been living under a rock). It came with a pure muslin cloth which polishes the skin, removing all impurities, without any harsh chemicals. Phase one: massage the concentrated cleanser into dry skin to purify, soften and stimulate circulation. Phase two: rinse the muslin cloth in hand hot water before gently polishing off the cream. The first time I used it I felt like I'd just had a facial! I couldn't believe how soft and supple it made my skin feel. It also gave me a complexion boost and seems to help prevent blemishes. Anybody could use this, no matter what your skin type, and contains chamomile, cocoa butter and eucalyptus essential oil; all renowned for their natural skin benefits! 

A product I've been using religiously (no exaggeration here) is the Body Shop Tea Tree Facial Toner. It's no secret that tea tree has vast skin benefits, especially for blemish prone skin, so a tea tree based toner seemed like promising product to try. I use this twice a day after cleansing, before moisturising to tone and tighten my pores. It removes all traces of cleanser residue, impurities and oil whilst mattifying your skin. I would highly reccomend this if you have oily or blemish prone skin as using it daily has helped my problem skin massively. What's more, once applied, it gives you a slight tingling sensation and leaves your skin feeling really fresh and clean. From the same range I've also been using the Blemish Gel. I bought this on a whim, as I do get blemishes, and was pleasantly surprised. It's always the last thing I apply at night time, I simply dab the gel onto the blemish and let mother nature work her magic. It has a soft applicator, kinda like a lip gloss, which means you can apply with precision. This isn't the product for you if you need an all over facial treatment but it's good for tackling precised areas. After the first use I found my blemishes were slightly smaller, less red and had dried out a bit. I have now been using it every day, when needed, and it certainly beats Sudocrem!

So those are my current skin care favs, I'd love to know if anyone else uses these and if there are any other wonder products out there so leave a comment and share with the rest of us!

Neeks ☯

Benefit POREfessional VS Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser

Ding ding ding! It's the undefeated Benefit POREfessional VS the new Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser. I have to say I've gotta take my hat off to Maybelline for taking on the all time primer champion; so I bought it with the mindset that even if it's not that great they deffo get brownie points for trying. Let the battle commence!

First up it's Benefit's POREfessional, the UK's no.1 best selling facial primer. Now there is no doubt that it's a great product and a definite must have in most make-up bags but at £24.50 is there a cheaper alternative? Maybelline's Baby Skin is just £7.99 so if this is in fact just as good (if not better) then it's a no brainer, I have to try it! 

POREfessional is a nude coloured balm with a velvety texture. Personally I have large pores around my T-zone and find that dabbing the POREfessional over these areas helps minimize the appearance of large pores IF I then apply my usual foundation over it.  On the other hand Baby Skin is a clear gel, slightly thicker than POREfessional, but a pea-sized amount is enough to cover my whole face. It also seems to make a huge difference even without applying make-up over the top. It makes my skin a lot softer, supple and even a bit more glowy, as well as minimizing my pores (oooh looks like Maybelline is in the lead).

Now here's the bit I'm umming and arring about. A great feature of the POREfessional is that I can dab it over those problem areas throughout the day without running the risk of smudging my make-up. Now the Baby Skin doesn't work as well when applied over make-up however, when I caught my reflection in the bathroom mirror, I found that even after a long shift at work I didn't actually need to apply anymore. 

Okay so I think I've made my decision *deep breaths* although you can't deny Benefit's POREfessional is a great product, not trying to be negative, but I really don't think it's worth £24.50. I think I expected it to be this amazing product that was sent down from the heavens and would magically bless me with angel like skin but when it fell on my lap I was a bit dissapointed. Now that I've introduced Maybelline's Baby Skin into my life and know what an affordable £7.99 bottle of wonders can do I don't think I'll be buying the POREfessional again. 

Maybelline's Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser is a light-weight clear gel with a velevty texture. It fills in pores and fine lines and makes your skin look smooth aswell as feel baby soft, it didn't make my skin oily and kept my make-up on all day. Maybelline I have been converted! 

POREfessional VS Baby Skin Pore Eraser! What's your verdict?  

Neeks x