My February beauty favourites....
01. BIOEFFECT EGF Serum
(15ml- £125.00)
Product Info
BIOEFFECT EGF Serum is a next-generation anti-ageing serum that improves the appearance and health of your skin by encouraging the skin to repair its own cells. Its key ingredient is Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), a substance which occurs naturally in human skin and which has the ability to speed up the rate of cell turnover within the skin.
Cellular activators are proteins that are vital for the maintenance and repair of skin cells. With age the level of these cellular activators within our skin decreases. Our skin renews itself less frequently, and begins to look less radiant and more wrinkled. Regular, once or twice daily use of BIOEFFECT EGF Serum reverses this process and gives visible dramatic improvements within weeks:
Reverses the signs of ageing. Diminishes uneven pigmentation. Adds radiance and luminosity. Moisturises deeply. Eliminates dry spots. Improves complexion.
Serum is used by 30% of all icelandic woman above the age of 30 (national independent survey) and in an independent clinical trial conducted by Dr. Ronald Moy, 100% of participants experienced a tangible improvement of their skin.
Ingredients
Glycerine, Aqua, Sodium Hyalunorate, Tromethamine, Alcohol (less than 0.9%), Calcium Chloride, Sodium Chloride, Hordeum Vulgare Seed Extract, EGF (Transgenic Barley sh-Oligopeptide-1)
Review
Bioeffect serum is a brand/ product I had never before heard of before receiving it through a beauty box. The product uses innovative technology to reduce signs of ageing/ diminish uneven pigmentation as well as moisturizering the skin. The technology works on the basis of using EGF to promote cell growth and renewal. After looking up some research done on the product it has a pretty interesting concept behind it. Before using it I didn't actually look up it's benefits, but noticed that within a few short days I could see viable results in the reduction of scaring I had on my skin. Even my overall complexion was visibly better, softer and brighter. It is advised that a full size ( I had a 3ml sample) should last you a year. And for £125 you would hope it would! The product does advise using one pipette drop on the skin daily, but considering the price I'd say one drop every few days are only when needed. My small sample will probably last 3 weeks with use every other day, which means a full size would last 15 weeks approx. That is incredibly expensive for what you get. The actual pipette is a bit fiddly which means it is difficult to decant the right amount without wasting product.
This is a great serum and I am going to try and pick up a few more samples (3ml=£8 from LIB) to have in an emergency rather than for day to day use. I don't have serious issues with my skin tone to justify the high price tag. If you do have issues with scarring or pigmentation this may be worth looking into even at the high cost. The difference over a few days was quite dramatic so a longer trial period I would imagine would have great results. Also people with older skin types or deep wrinkles may find this more beneficial to the reduction of fine lines. On younger skin it is hard to tell what effects it has or prevention it gives. This is one if you can afford it, you should try it.
- Read more about this product here
Review 8/10
Available HERE
02. WEI Jujube Age Control Serum
(30ml- £60)
Product Info
Jujube has long been prized in China for its energizing properties and ability to help delay the ageing process. Harnessing the moisture-drawing power of humectants combined with Jujube and eight other skin-strengthening herbs, this lightweight yet potent serum works hard to calm and revitalise tired, ageing and stressed skin. Wei brings together ancient Chinese wisdom with modern formulations to deliver stimulating and nourishing energy, transforming the appearance of your skin.
Energy is a vital component to youthfulness and, in the tradition of Chinese medicine, this anti-ageing serum boasts a potent complex of energising herbs to renew and revitalise your skin. Restoring precious moisture, its exclusive formula delivers a visible improvement in your skin’s clarity, and reveals a healthy-looking, youthful radiance
Morning and evening, apply three to four drops to freshly cleansed face and neck. Massage gently in upwards motions. Follow with your favourite Wei moisturiser.
Review
This was one of my favourite new products that I tried out in February. I've actually received a few samples of this product over the past few months but didn't start using them until I received the latest sample through Birch Box, which arrived at the same time as my usual serum was running out. All though I've heard of the brand I've never actually read any reviews of their products before. This is a serum that is seriously underrated, and one of the best I've tried.
The serum has a lightweight consistency with a strong fruity scent. Although its main selling point is as an anti-ageing product it also promises to sooth and hydrate the skin, eliminating any oil. Although it would be too soon to examine its long term effects on ageing, I can tell you that the difference to the texture and tone of the skin is immediate. After one use skin looks luminous, glowing and refreshed. I read a lot of reviews were people dismissed this sample after receiving it because it was anti-ageing and they were only in their 20s and didn't seem to think it was relevant to them. People seem to think that using anti-ageing products is something that they should start doing in their 40s... but it is something you definitely should start doing in your early 20s! Prevention is better than cure. I think this attitude is one of the main reasons this product didn't get the praise it deserves. After using it for a few weeks I'm very much sold on the product. Unfortunately this is a serum that carries a hefty price tag... £60. That is a lot for how much product you get, roughly that would last you 6 to 8 weeks max. I would buy this again if I could find it at a better price or if it ever goes on sale, the cost is too much for me to justify at the moment. If you have the money though I would advise checking this out. For now I'll have to make do with my samples!
Review 9/10
Available HERE
03. The Body Shop Rose Oud Perfume
(50ml- £15.00)
Review
This was a limited edition fragrance brought out by The Body Shop in 2012. It is an Oriental style scent, a beautiful mixture of rose and argarwood, with more of a woody smell than rose. It has a very heavy scent, probably not one that everyone would love but I'm obsessed with it. I picked this up in the sale for the bargain price of £1 without smelling it, I only regret I did not buy another bottle. Hopefully I'll be able to track one down at the body shop outlet store. I also bought the accompanying deodorant to go with this. This is a great Winter perfume, very striking and best of all lasts all day. Really sad this was discontinued, hopefully it will be brought back or something similar will be brought out.
Review 10/10
Available on Ebay HERE
04. Monu Professional Skincare Micro Exfoliant
( 100ml- £13.95)
Product Info
Monu Professional Skincare Micro Exfoliant is a powerful treatment that delivers instantly radiant skin.
Dual-action microdermabrasion. Refines skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines and pores.With Diatomatious earth, Papaya enzymes, Polysaccharides, Shea butter and Panthenol.Provides an immediate healthy 'new skin' effect. Paraben free formulation.
Ingredients
Active ingredients: Diatomaceous Earth, Lime Essential Oil, Mandarin Essential Oil, Papaya Extract, Polysaccharides, Rose Essential Oil, Shea Butter, Vitamin B.
Review
This was another beauty box sample that I tried out in February and instantly loved. I use this twice a week, although it is gentle enough to be used every other day. It has a light creamy texture with small grain like particles that exfoliate without aggravating the skin. The scent is quite fresh and clinical like other MONU products. Afterwards skin is left feeling refreshed, clean and ultra soft. I also noticed that my complexion was a lot brighter after use. This is one of the best exfoliators I've ever tried. I've really been impressed with everything I've tried from the MONU range so far and will definitely be repurchasing this. It is also a great price for such a good professional skin care brand product. Definitely one to check out. It's also suitable for all skin types which is great too.
05 Soap & Glory Clean On Me Creamy Clarifying Shower Gel
(500ml- £5.50)
Product Info
Fragranced with Soap & Glory's addictive signature scent and rich creamy texture.Contains natural mandarin peel extract and a bonus built-in body lotion.
Apply a handful of Clean On Me to damp skin, rub it into a thick, luxurious lather, and then rinse.
Review
This is an old favourite that I've been rediscovering this month. This gorgeous sweet smelling body wash contains a built in moisturiser so your skin is left super soft after use. Perfect if your in a rush and do not have time to moisturise. Also great if you have dry skin or for use in colder winter months. It is excellent value for money, this large container will last months. The pump applicator also makes it easy to portion out the amount of product used so none is wasted, helping it last a lot longer. I love Soap and Glory bath products and this is one of my favourites. I love that the heavenly scent lasts on the body for hours. I can't imagine how anyone would dislike this but I have read a few reviews were people have disliked it for the scent, so if you don't like sweet scents this is not a product for you. If you haven't tried this I'd recommend picking it up with the matching bubble bath, body scrub & body butter for a luxurious bath time or shower. This is always a product that I will repurchase!
Review 9/10
Available HERE
06 Aveda Smooth Infusion Shampoo & Conditioner
-Shampoo
(50ml- £5/ 250ml- £16.50)
Product Info
Daily cleansing smooths and softens hair up to 60%.
moisturises and reduces frizz
Exclusive plant infusion-a blend derived from organic aloe, maize and guar bean-creates a smooth new surface on hair
Significantly reduces frizz and unwanted wave, helps prevent flyaways
Protects against surface damage from heat styling
Babassu-derived cleansing system softens hair with a luxurious lather
One of 7 groundbreaking products honoured with Gold-level Cradle to Cradle certification
-Conditioner
(40ml- £5.50/ 200ml £18.50)
Product Info
Daily conditioning smooths and softens hair up to 60%.
moisturises and reduces frizz
Exclusive plant infusion-a blend derived from organic aloe, maize and guar bean-creates a smooth new surface on hair
Significantly reduces frizz and unwanted wave, helps prevent fly aways
Protects against surface damage from heat styling
Babassu-derived cleansing system softens hair with a luxurious lather
One of 7 groundbreaking products honoured with Gold-level Cradle to Cradle certification.
Review
This is another great hair care set from Aveda. I received a huge set of Aveda products to test out a few months back and have only recently had the time to use them. I reviewed the damaged therapy range last month so thought I'd test out the smooth infusion range for February. The set also came with a styling polish but I will review that at a later date.
The smooth infusion range promises to reduce frizz by 60%. As someone with naturally curly hair the frizz factor is always an issue for me. The shampoo lathers up easily and deep cleanses the hair till it is squeaky clean Although the conditioner is not a thick consistency it leaves hair really soft and smooth. Both products have an amazing fresh zesty lemon scent that lasts in your hair all day. After use my hair was a lot smoother and slightly straighter even when I let it air dray. I still had to use a smoothing product to tame the ends but overall my hair was a lot smoother and less frizzy. I also loved how Aveda is an organic line. As someone who dyes their hair I like to treat it as well as I can with the other products I use. Price wise the full size bottles of this are expensive, but for a high end good quality hair care line they are worth the money. I'm not sure which hair care range I prefer from Aveda but I will be investing in some full size bottles from one of the ranges soon. If you haven't tried Aveda products I'd fully recommend them.
Review 9/10 (shampoo & conditioner)
Shampoo Available HERE
Conditioner Available HERE
07 Moroccan Rose Otto Bath Oil by REN
( 110ml- £30)
Product Info
REN Moroccan Rose Otto Bath Oil adds a luxurious feel and scent to any bath, rejuvenating your senses and softening and hydrating your skin. It is the perfect way to relax the body after a stressful, tense day. This lovely bath time treat use only 100% pure plant oils, natural fragrances and is free from harsh sulphates and synthetic colours. Pure flower power!
Add one or two cap fulls to a full bath. The rose oil will disperse evenly into the water and will not leave a greasy film on the bath tub. TOP TIP: Add the oil after the bath has been run, this preserves the energy of the ingredients for a packed anti-stress punch.
INGREDIENTS
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame Oil), Laureth 3 (Source Coconut Oil),Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Source Coconut And Palm Oil), AloeBarbadebsis (Aloe Vera Extract), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Cymbopogon Martini (Palmarosa) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Oil, Myroxylon Pereirae (Balsam Peru) Oil, Citronellol (Source Geranium Oil), Benzyl Benzoate (Source Balsam Peru Oil), Eugenol (Source Clove Oil), Genaniol (Source Geranium Oil), Linalool (Source Ho Wood Oil). Cosy Treats
Review
I received a Small sample of this in a beauty box last month and instantly fell in love. I'm pretty much sold on bath oils now. I wasn't really that into them before, I was pretty much a bubble bath only girl. You only need a very small amount of product when using bath oil, they also leave a lovely layer of moisture on the skin after use. This oil by REN has the most divine rose scent that fills the room, perfect for a relaxing bath. Although the product advises two caps you can get away with one cap per bath. The oil comes in glass bottle which looks nice in the bathroom. Price wise it is expensive but considering how much you need per bath it will last a long time. I was so taken with the Moroccan Rose scent that I plan on purchasing a gift set to try out all the bath products in this range. This is not only a lovely treat product to buy for yourself but would make an excellent gift.
Review 9/10
Available HERE
08. Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque
(75ml- £33.50)
Review
Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque is an intensive masque of concentrated vitamins and botanical extracts designed to calm environmentally-stressed skin. Firming Vitamin A increases elasticity and moisture content while antioxidant Vitamin C aids in collagen synthesis, restoring suppleness. Vitamin E and Pro-Vitamin B5 promote healthy tissue regeneration, while calming botanical extracts of Licorice, Comfrey and Burdock soothe the skin. Increases elasticity and aids in collagen synthesis, restoring suppleness. Antioxidant vitamins help repair daily damage caused by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS - Free Radicals).
Botanicals help soothe and calm stressed skin.
Ingredients
Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C),Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Linoleic Acid (Vitamin F - an essential fatty acid) and Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) help repair and restore damaged skin.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernal Extract acts as an anti-inflammatory and moisturises, soothes and calms irritation.
Beta-Glucan soothes irritation and enhances moisture barrier properties.
Nutrient-rich Algae Extract moisturises and softens skin.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Symphytum Officinale(Comfrey) Rhizome/Root Extract and Arctium Majus (Burdock) Root Extract soothe and calm skin while decreasing sensitivity.
Review
This product from the age smart range is recommended for people who have very dry skin or are experiencing premature ageing. Personally I use it as an occasional moisture mask as I don't have either of these issues. This was a sample i was sent and not something I would purchase usually. Formula wise it looks and feels exactly like Pamers Cocoa Butter, not the most appealing formula, and stays looking orange on the skin. After use however it leaves skin really soft and is a nice pick me up if your skin is looking tiered or worn out. It come in a squeezy tube making application easy to use. Price wise it is expensive but will probably last a few months. I have really enjoyed using it this month but I probably won't be repurchasing it as it does not have specifications suited to my skin type. I'd recommend this for older skin as it specifically increases elasticity and collagen in the skin. I've also read the use of multivitamins in the formula makes it a good mask if your skin is looking dull and worn out from drinking/ partying. If these are issue for you it's a good mask to keep in the cabinet for an emergency.
09. Glycolactic Skin Renewal Mask by REN
(5ml- £30)
Product Info
A potent bio active peel mask designed to renew the complexion, reduce the appearance of fine lines and dramatically improve skin tone.
Results:
Removes dead skin cells to renew the complexion
Skin looks brighter, healthier, more radiant
Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Combats congestion, blackheads and blemishes
How to use:
Apply a generous amount onto clean skin over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Leave for 10 minutes. Dampen enclosed cloth and gently wipe off mask. Rinse skin with warm water. Slight tingling may be experienced during application. Use weekly. Not recommended for sensitive skin or for use just after shaving.
Ingredients
Polysorbate 60, Glycerin, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Leaf Extract, Lecithin, Lactic Acid, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Passiflora Quadrangularis Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Ananas Sativus(Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Alcohol Denat., Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Maltodextrin, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Parfum (Fragrance), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Oil, Limonene, Linalool, Citral, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Tocopherol.
Review
Another great product I discovered through a beauty box. It's easy to see why this is a raved about cult product it really does do wonders. It is rare after one use you see a visible difference but that's what you get from this mask. After using the mask it is like having a whole new skin. The product has a light consistency with a slightly fruity scent, not the most appealing smell. It is a bit sticky which isn't that great but not a major issue. Basically the formula eats away at dead skin cells to leave a new layer of skin. The result is a brighter complexion and skin that looks clearer (less blackheads/ exfoliated). The downside is the burning sensation and tender skin after use. This is definitely not a product for people with sensitive skin. I don't have sensitive skin but my face still felt very tender even the next day. I'd advise using this as a weekend mask maybe every 10 days to two weeks but no more than that. This is a great mask if you have any issues with acne scarring or pigmentation issues. The mask is also supposed to be great for clearing fine lines but I haven't used it long enough to comment on that. It is a slightly high price but considering the length of time it will last you and how little you need to use it is very good value (Usually you can find it a bit cheaper or with a REN discount code to make a bit of a saving). I'd also say this would be a product better suited to a squeezy tube rather than with a pump to make application easier. This is definitely a repeat purchase for me. I've enjoyed using this so much that I've started testing out a few other REN skincare products. The REN line is also organic which is great for your skin, and something I especially enjoy. One to check out for sure.
Review 9/10
Available HERE (currently £24)
10. Dr Bronner's Organic Peppermint Castile Liquid Soap
(236ml- £5.49)
Product Info
Dr Bronner's Organic Peppermint Castile Liquid Soap is the brands most popular fragrance. The peppermint essential oil tingles the body and clears the mind. Because therapeutically peppermint oil is a mild stimulant it increases vitality and clarity. All oils and essential oils are certified organic to the National Organic Standards Program. Packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles.
Ingredients
Ingredients:Water, Organic Coconut Oil*, Potassium Hydroxide**, Organic Olive Oil*, Mentha Arvensis*, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Peppermint Oil*, Citric Acid, Tocopherol.
Review
Dr Bronner's is a 60 year old company with a line of organic Multi-use liquid soaps. Before it had not been so readily available in the UK so was not something I had looked into even though I had always wanted to try it. Remembering I had a few samples sitting unloved I decided to take some on a trip rather than carry my heavy bottle of brush cleaner, after reading a review that this was excellent for the job. I decided to try out the peppermint scent as this was the most clean smelling to me (although there are lots of other scents in the line). The results were remarkable. The formula lathered so easily, a surprise considering its organic formula, and did a superb job of cleaning hard to remove foundation from my brushes. Not only were they squeaky clean after one wash (not the usual 3 washes I usually need to do) but they smelt amazing too. This however is not the only use for the soap it can be used on the face, hair and body and is said to be so organic you can even use it as a toothpaste (Not that I would really want a soap taste in my mouth but the option is there). I've even heard of it being used to clean clothes and do other household chores (apparently one part soap to 40 parts water will do everything from floors to toilets). It is truly a multi purpose product! This comes in a variety of sizes which makes it a good option for travelling. Because of its multi purpose nature it is also a great space saver if you want to slim down on products. I will be repurchasing this as my new makeup brush cleaner of choice. Personally I won't be using it as a regular face cleanser; after doing some research it was commented that it needs to be quite diluted or the natural acid can strip the skin. I'm sure an occasional use would be fine. Also as someone with coloured hair, as a shampoo option this is out for me again, apparently it can strip colour due to its brilliant cleaning abilities. I'm sure I could still find another 101 uses for it though regardless of this though. I may even pick up a large size to use for cleaning around the house. I also plan on picking up a small size for my handbag for a solution to a multitude of emergencies. This is very cheap product especially for the use you can get out of it. I'd recommend testing this out for yourself.
Review 8/10
Available HERE
11. The Body Shop Vanilla Bliss Home Fragrance Oil
( £2- 10ml)
Product Info
This home fragrance oil will fill your room with the sweet aroma of vanilla
Review
Technically not strictly a beauty item but I wanted to include this in this months favorites This has the most incredible scent. Just a few drops in an oil burners fills the room with a wonderful vanilla scent perfect for relaxation. A nice product to use in the bedroom or bathroom for a nice atmosphere. I've also read that you can soak cotton wool with this and leave it behind the radiator to fill the whole house with the scent. Its low priced and lasts a long time making it a good purchase. I'm so in love with the scent that I'll be trying out a few more products from this line. A must purchase if your a fan of Vanilla.
Review 9/10
Available Here
12. No7 Beautiful Skin Cleansing Brush
(£24.95)
Product Info
This clever cleansing brush gently exfoliates and deeply cleanses the skin, removing more dirt, oil and make-up than manual cleansing alone. Easy and quick to use, discover super clean, soft, radiant and healthier looking skin in less than 60 seconds.
Review
This is one of my favourite beauty investments so far this year. I've debated whether to invest in a clarasonic for months but when I saw this in boots for the bargain introductory price of £15 (and in a buy 2 get 1 free offer too) I rushed excitedly to the till. The brush recommends using with the accompanying cleanser but this is not necessary. It advises applying your cleanser as you would normally do, then wet the brush head, and use one of the two speeds to clean your face for about 30 seconds. It does not work by adding the cleanser straight to the brush (I've tried) . I personally like to use my normal foaming cleanser with the brush and then a hot cloth cleanser afterwards. Also I prefer to use it for 1 to 2 minutes, 30 seconds on each area of my face. I've been using facial brushes( non electric) for about a year and a half now and have greatly advocated their use. I noticed once I began using them the condition of my skin improved greatly from their efficiency at deep cleaning. It is widely reported by people using the clarasonic that they experience a "purge period" and this is something I did experience briefly. On the first use you can see everything that has been sitting under your skin come to the surface of you skin (pretty disgusting). But even after that first use you can markedly see a difference. For about 3 to 4 days after I did experience a few breakouts, I'm not sure if my previous use of facial brushes had limited this period but it was nothing extreme. It is something that your skin gets used to. The product does not recommend use on dry or sensitive skin and I'd agree with this, it is a bit abrasive and my skin was slightly dry and sensitive after the first few uses. I use this every other day at night time and follow with a thick moisturizer. More frequent use would be too much for the skin. I use my other mini facial brush from the body shop for day to day use. This has really helped with clearing blackheads, as someone with oily skin this is the main issue for me. Although my usual facial brush does a good job an electronic brush is always going to excel in efficiency (the same difference between a tooth brush and an electric one). After a week or so of use I noticed the clarity of my skin had greatly improved, pores were smaller, acne scarring reduced and dead skin had been exfoliated and in general it was a lot brighter. I have been really please with the results so far. It does have some downsides; This facial brush uses batteries as opposed to the clarasonic that is charged, which isn't great in terms of efficiency. Also it is not waterproof so you have to be careful to keep the handle dry. These issues aren't too serious especially considering its low price. Replacement brush heads cost £8 for 2 which isn't to bad ( it is recommended that you change them every 2 months). Overall it is really good value for money. I'm sure the clarsonic is better but as a dupe this is a really good one. If you're interested in a clarasonic but can't afford it this is a must have purchase for you.
Review 10/10
Available HERE
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