Introducing: Florena Fermented Skincare - Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream, Antioxidant Night Cream, Regenerating Facial Oil & Firming Face Mask review

Last month, I had the pleasure of being introduced to a new-to-me natural skincare brand called Florena. They specialise in vegan-friendly and sustainable skincare, with everything they produce being certified by COSMOS Natural. 

What really sets Florena apart from many similar brands is that they are the first company who are dedicated to the fermentation of flowers and oil - an intriguing area of protective and regenerative skincare that boasts many benefits for all skin types.

The fermentation process begins by carefully selecting plant-based oils and flowers to extract their key components and then natural fermenting agents are added. After fermenting for a period of time, the solution is filtered so that only the fermented actives are retained for their use in the skincare formulas.

I was kindly sent a package of Florena skincare to try out and all of the below are from their anti-aging range. For those who haven't come across Florena before, they are an affiliate of the German beauty giant Beiersdorf and are cruelty-free.

Florena Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream* (50ml, £24.99, link) & Antioxidant Night Cream* (50ml, £24.99, link)

If you only try one product from Florena, I'd recommend either their Day or Night Creams so let's start there! I've been most impressed by both of these. The Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream is a beautiful concoction that's made from 99.47% natural ingredients and enriched with fermented Honeysuckle, Hyaluronic Acid, and fermented Olive Oil. Due to the fermented Olive Oil content, this moisturiser boasts 50 times more Omega 6 and Omega 9 fatty acids than non-fermented Olive Oil so it's great for hydrating dry skin, smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protecting against everyday free radical damage. I love the texture of this as it just sinks into the skin immediately, yet feels instantly nourishing and hydrating.

For your evening routine, the Antioxidant Night Cream is packed full of those essential Omega 6 and Omega 9 Fatty Acids, with Vitamin E and fermented Portulaca and Lactobacillus. It will give your skin a big drink of moisture to enjoy overnight, whilst boosting the level of antioxidants to repair and protect the skin's natural barrier against the elements. As you'd expect from a night cream, this is a little more richer and thicker than the Day Cream so a little goes a long way, but it absorbs easily without any greasiness. 

A note about the packaging: these moisturisers come in jars which are made from 97.5% recycled plastic and thus it's more lightweight to help reduce the CO2 impact and the amount of plastic needed overall. The content is still the same as a full-size 50ml moisturiser, it's just that the packaging is more compact. I thought I'd point this out as many customers on the Boots website appeared to be moaning about the jars being so small!

Florena Regenerating Facial Oil* (30ml, £24.99, link)

You guys know how much I love using facial oils so of course I was excited to try this out. Florena's Regenerating Facial Oil does not disappoint; it's a powerful elixir made from 100% natural ingredients that includes fermented White Helichrysum, Argan Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Passionfruit Seed Oil, and Safflower Oil. Like the moisturisers above, it's high in essential fatty acids Omega 6 and 9 to feed and nourish the skin, whilst the silky texture of the oil gives the skin an instant boost after a glorious pampering facial massage with it. This feels like a real treat for your skin!

Florena Firming Face Mask* (8ml, £5.99, link)

For a quick and easy skincare treatment, Florena's Face Masks get to work in just 5 minutes and there are currently two types available; a Hydrating and a Firming solution. Described as a weekly anti-ageing treatment, I tried the Firming Face Mask which has 99.47% natural ingredients and features fermented Honeysuckle and Hyaluronic Acid to deliver a firming, plumping, and revitalising result to tired, older skin in need of a pick-me-up. I thoroughly enjoyed using this cream mask, though my main criticism is that it comes in single-use packaging, when a much easier to recycle jar seems more appropriate these days. One to save for traveling perhaps?

Florena Fermented Skincare is available from Florena.co.uk

Have you tried fermented skincare before?

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New In Beauty: Antipodes Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream review

 

If you've been following my blog for a while now, you'll know that Antipodes are one of my favourite natural and organic skincare brands, so it's always exciting when I receive a new product release from them! Introducing their new Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream and all the reasons why you should be adding this to your shopping list ASAP.

What Is It?

Antipodes Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream is a weightless water cream that delivers skin-loving probiotics and all-night hydration. Think of it as a repairing and nourishing nighttime moisturiser.

What Are The Key Ingredients?

This cream has been formulated with an innovative probiotic called Kalibiome AGE which is made up of entirely natural bacteria that's been carefully chosen to help repair and replenish the skin whilst you sleep. Other key ingredients include the ultra-hydrating Hyaluronic Acid and the New Zealand sourced Mamaku Black Fern extract to boost moisture levels even further.

Full INCI is: Aqua (water), glycerine, cetearyl olivate, sorbitan olivate, sodium acrylates copolymer & lecithin, Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, Limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) oil, dehydroacetic acid, benzyl alcohol, glyceryl caprylate, bisabolol, sodium hyaluronate, xanthan gum & lecithin & sclerotium gum & pullulan, Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf extract, organic, Lactobacillus ferment, mannitol, maltodextrin, sodium citrate, Cyathea medullaris (mamaku) black fern extract, Phormium tenax (harakeke) flax extract, Hibiscus sabdariffa (hibiscus) flower extract, mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxide, manganese violet, Fragrance of Deep Fresh Rose: citral†, citronellol†, geraniol†, d-Limonene†, linalool†.

Which Skin Types Can Use It?

This moisturiser is ideal for Dull, Tired, Stressed and Dehydrated skin types, however, I imagine all skin types will enjoy using it. It's 100% natural, cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. 

How Do I Use It?

After cleansing and toning in the evening, apply a small amount all over the face, massaging it in. As it's so hydrating, it's not necessary to use any additional products afterward so it's the last step in your evening skincare routine.

Overall Thoughts

I've really been enjoying using the Antipodes Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream. I love the super light, weightless feel of this product as I find that so many 'very moisturising' creams are too heavy and sticky for my skin, and this is the exact opposite. It absorbs quickly, yet my skin feels instantly plumped up and smoother, like it's had a big drink! 

In the morning, my complexion looks clearer and feels softer. I was initially a little worried that this may be too much moisture for my oily/combination skin type, but it just seems to balance everything out instead, so it's been brilliant to add to my nighttime skincare ritual. If you're already an Antipodes fan, it reminds me a lot of the Baptise Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel and the two combined would be a great fit to keep your skin's moisture levels at their best 24/7.

Antipodes Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream* (60ml, £45, link)

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Tried & Tested: Grahams Natural Manuka Honey Soap for Dry Skin and Psoriasis Cream review

One of the best things about the internet is being able to find a wide range of products to help treat Eczema and Psoriasis, both of which I've had since I was a child. If you've been following my blog for a while now, you'll have no doubt seen me mention my struggles with eczema flare-ups, especially at this time of the year and when the seasons change.

Both Eczema and Psoriasis can be incredibly debilitating depending on the severity of the individual's symptoms, and I had one of the worst Pompholyx flare-ups (also known as Dyshidrotic Eczema) over Christmas which I'm still trying to get under control now. For these reasons, I'm always open to trying out products which are specially formulated to help these conditions as I have found that it can sometimes take a lot of trial and error before you find something that really works for you.

Lately, I've been trying out these two products from the Australian brand Grahams, and like so many companies that specialise in this area, Grahams was set up by a husband and wife team to help their son who was suffering from eczema and needed a more natural alternative to what was available on the market. After 17 years of perfecting their formulas, they now have a range of products which are dedicated to those who need something more natural based and steroid-free, to soothe their Eczema, Psoriasis and Dry Skin problems.

Grahams Natural Manuka Honey Soap* (100g, £6.99, link)

If you have any kind of dry skin condition, you may find switching your regular hand wash and/or your shower gel to a more gentle soap can really help to alleviate some of the symptoms. I personally find that my eczema is often triggered by SLS that's the commonly used foaming ingredient in many mainstream products, so I try to avoid it as much as possible. 

Grahams Natural Manuka Honey Soap is free from SLS and sulphates, and instead is made from just seven natural ingredients; Palm Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Purified Water, Glycerin, Manuka Honey and Neem Leaf Powder. It produces a light lather and feels very moisturising, but doesn't have any noticeable scent to it so I like using it mainly as a hand soap, although it does work well in the shower if you want something that feels very neutral and 'clean'. The only negative is that I would prefer to use a soap that's made without palm oil, so I'm not sure that I would repurchase it.

Grahams Psoriasis Cream* (75g, £19.99, link)

I've had a stubborn patch of Psoriasis on both of my hands since the start of the year so this Psoriasis Cream arrived at the perfect time for me to test it out! Described as a 'Class 1 Formulated Medical Device' in Australia, this product is an effective, non-sterile topical emollient with clinical data to back up its formula. Key ingredients include Purified Water, Manuka Honey, Calendula, Urea, Avocado Oil, Gotu Kola Extract, Jojoba Oil and Shea Butter to bring instant relief to the symptoms of Psoriasis.

It's a relatively thick cream product as you'd expect from a product of this nature, but it doesn't feel overly sticky or greasy and depending on how much you apply, you may be surprised by how quickly this absorbs compared to similar emollients that I've tried in the past. The fragrance-free formula will also be appreciated by those who have sensitive skin, and the cream can be used anywhere on the body and face. It's not been a miracle worker for my psoriasis, but it has definitely helped to improve the worst of it by keeping the skin nicely moisturised, so if you're looking to try something different, it's certainly worth a go.

Grahams products are available in the UK via LoveLula.com

What do you use for managing eczema and psoriasis?

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Currently Loving: 3 Multipurpose Winter Skincare Products For Your Handbag or Desk

Protect your skin this Winter with one of these natural and cruelty-free, multipurpose products - all of which are available in handbag friendly sizes.

P'URE Papayacare Papaya Ointment* (25g, £8.99, link)

Packaged in a handy squeezable tube, this 100% natural ointment from P'URE Papayacare is an intensively rich and nourishing treatment that has the consistency of a thick, non-sticky balm. Packed full of Organic Papaya, Calendula, Shea Butter, Macadamia and Jojoba Oils, it's a must-try for anyone is suffering from very dry patches anywhere on the body, as well as dry, chapped lips. It can also be used after laser treatments to calm down irritated skin, and as it's all-natural, it's safe to use whilst breastfeeding to moisturise sore nipples, and as a soothing protector for nappy rash and cradle cap. Unlike other similar products on the market, this one is cruelty-free and is free from Petroleum, Castor Oil, Palm Oil, Phthalates, Parabens or Preservatives.

Lyonsleaf Beauty Balm* (55ml, £12.95, link)

Whilst most typical cleansing balms only do one job, Lyonsleaf's Beauty Balm is a convenient multipurpose alternative which can be used to thoroughly cleanse, exfoliate and moisturise the skin for a three-step skincare routine in just one pot! The water-free formula means that it doesn't need to contain any harsh preservatives and there's no artificial fragrances or colours, so it's an ideal choice for those with dry and sensitive skin. It's made entirely from natural ingredients such as cold-pressed plant oils (Babassu, Macadamia, Jojoba and Sweet Almond), as well as raw Organic Shea Butter and a carefully chosen blend of essential oils, to nourish, repair and protect your skin this Winter.

Weleda Skin Food* (30ml, £7.95, link)

You can't have a winter skincare post without mentioning the iconic Weleda Skin Food; a tried and trusted celebrity favourite and a product that I've been using myself for many years now. Inside the bright green metallic tube, you'll discover an insanely thick and rich moisturiser that you can use everywhere on the body for some instant hydrating TLC. It's great to use as an intensive moisturising face mask once a week (just leave on for 10-15 minutes and then rinse the excess off), and it's brilliant for dry hands, lips, cuticles, elbows, heels and feet. Like all of the products featured here, a little goes a very long way, so these are all very affordable skincare options to try out during the Winter months.

Have you tried any of these?

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Green Beauty: S5 Neutralise Cleanser, Purity Serum + Balance Fluid review

Widely known in the beauty industry for their innovative serums, the organic skincare brand S5 has recently undergone a reformulation and repackaging makeover, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on some of their products!

Described as 'intelligent organic skincare for modern living', S5 is a specially formulated range of high-end skincare which helps to combat the environmental and physical stresses of everyday life such as pollution, foreign chemicals, lack of sleep and poor nutrition. These are all common culprits which can cause inflammation in the skin as well as premature ageing, so S5 has developed products to deal with a range of different skin problems and complaints. 

One of the key concepts behind the brand is their scientific research and emphasis on using natural ingredients which grow in the extremes of nature (such as mountain, desert, arctic and tropical climates), and what active components they can use to help make the skin more resilient overall. I really like this idea and it introduces a range of exotic natural ingredients to consumers who may not have tried anything like this before. 

Made in small batches in their own studio lab in Hertfordshire, all of S5's products are cruelty-free, suitable for sensitive skin, free from SLS/SLES, parabens, petrochemicals, TEA, artificial colourings and are vegan friendly. Like many brands, S5 are constantly improving their skincare, and this week sees the launch of their 'second evolution' with new formulas and a sleeker rebrand to go with it.

I've had the following products for the past month to try out which are all suitable for oily, combination and sensitive skin types, so here are my thoughts!

S5 Purity Serum* (30ml, £48, link)

The Purity Serum is something that I've used on/off from S5 for a few years now (it was first featured in a favourite serums post of mine back in 2013 here), and I was keen to see what this new formula was like. Specifically developed to tackle acne and blemishes, this 99.65% (and 86.72% organic) natural treatment has been clinically proven in tests to reduce the appearance of blemishes by 42% and sebum production by 65%. 

This serum features an effective bioactive blend of Andiroba, Acai and Copaiba, which work in synergy together to balance sebum and blitz blemishes, and there's Alpine Epilobium to further balance oil production and reduce the appearance of large pores, whilst the popular Willow Bark is included to clarify congested pores and help promote natural exfoliation of skin cells.

Purity has a typical runny serum-like consistency that absorbs fast and layers well underneath other products such as face oils and moisturisers, so it was easy to incorporate into my skincare routine. It feels very soothing, and unlike many other acne targeted treatments, it doesn't dry out my skin. I mostly like to use this 1-2 times a week, but if I'm dealing with a breakout, I'll use it every evening until it clears up, and it does help to speed up the process very well.

S5 Neutralise Cleanser* (100ml, £24, link)

A lot of cleansers for oilier and combination skin types can be too harsh or stripping, but this Neutralise Cleanser is like a breath of fresh air, so it's perfect for sensitive skin too. Texture-wise, it's very light, oil-free and because there are no sulphates, it doesn't foam or lather up much, but it does do an excellent job of gently cleansing the skin and will even remove some light/mineral based makeup too. Given the price though, I prefer to use this as a morning cleanser instead because it's so nice and refreshing - it really helps to wake up my tired skin a treat and it never feels dry or irritated afterwards. 

Two superstar ingredients in this cleanser are African Moringa Peptides which help to protect the skin against environmental aggressors and pollution (another good reason to use it in the morning), and Prickly Pear Cactus Extract that's revered for its natural hydrating and soothing properties.

S5 Balance Fluid* (50ml, £46, link)

To complete this three-step routine from S5, I tested out their Balance Fluid which is an anti-ageing moisturiser that's been specially designed to balance and protect oily, combination and reactive skin. Like the rest of the range, I love the sleek glass packaging that comes with an inbuilt pump, and a friend of mine was quick to compliment it when I showed it to her the other day - the rebrand is definitely a winner!

Featuring Alpine Epilobium and an 'Extreme Protection Complex', it helps to balance excess sebum production, reduce the appearance of pores, and protect the skin against the ageing effects of everyday pollution. Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid is also included to instantly hydrate and plump up fine lines and wrinkles. This moisturiser is incredibly lightweight; the 'fluid' name is spot on here as it describes the texture perfectly. As it's so lightweight, it absorbs quickly and creates a lovely smooth and mattified base for makeup - I can happily skip using a primer whenever I've used this which is always a welcome bonus.

Check out the full range of S5 Skincare at s5skincare.com

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Introducing: Naturally Tribal Skincare - Full Range review

A few weeks ago, I received a lovely surprise parcel which contained a whole box full of products from Naturally Tribal Skincare. Having used their amazing IYA Body Food in the past (which I featured here in my March Beauty Favourites last year), I was pleased to see that the green beauty brand had undergone a packaging makeover and I couldn't wait to try out all of the products that they had sent!

Naturally Tribal Skincare was founded by Shalom Llyod, a qualified pharmacist who started to look into natural alternatives that she could use to treat her young son's chronic eczema. Understanding that the skin is the body's largest organ, she didn't want to use steroids or harsh chemicals on her baby's delicate skin, which is something that I've always personally agreed with. Instead, she looked to her African heritage and began researching recipes and ingredients which have been used for centuries in Africa to treat a variety of skin conditions including eczema, and thus Naturally Tribal was ultimately born.

The brand prides itself on using 100% natural ingredients in all of its products, with one of its most used being high-grade Shea Butter. This is ethically sourced, alongside other ingredients, by working directly with the female communities of the Esan people in Nigeria who take great pride in hand producing Shea Butter as part of their culture. My skin has always responded well to Shea Butter based formulas, so I was very curious to get stuck in the box and test everything out. 

Naturally Tribal Yara Body Food*

Developed especially for children's delicate skin, Yara Body Food is the one to try if you have kids or very sensitive skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. This multi-purpose cream is incredibly thick and nourishing thanks to a composition of Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil and Calendula, with nothing else added. 

Naturally Tribal Agu Body Food*

Agu Body Food is the one 'for men' and has a slightly more masculine scent which is derived from Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Vetivert, Citrus and Geranium oils, though it's something that I would happily use myself! The Shea Butter and Coconut Oil base provides intensely rich hydration to dry areas and the antioxidant properties from the Cinnamon oil help to keep the skin nice and supple. 

Naturally Tribal Bitter Kola Scrub*

If you enjoy using body scrubs which are thick and nourishing in texture and feel, you'll love the scrubs that Naturally Tribal do. Blended into a base of Shea Butter, Argan Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil, are tiny pieces of Kola Nut which help to polish away dull, dead skin cells. The result afterwards is instantly smoother skin, and this scrub has a subtle spicy scent of Black Pepper, Basil, Tangerine, Rosemary and Lemon.

Naturally Tribal Exotic Body Polish*

By contrast, this Body Polish has a much smoother and more buttery texture and would be better suited to those who have sensitive skin. That rich Shea Butter and Coconut Oil base is joined together here with Pea Millet which offers a very gentle and mild exfoliation on the skin. This one's ideal to use before spa massages and treatments, and helps to repair damaged and dehydrated skin. 

Naturally Tribal Iya Body Food*

The Iya Body Food still remains as one of my favourite products from Naturally Tribal because I love the scent of it so much. Named as the 'women's body food', Iya uses Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil and Apricot Kernel Oil to deeply nourish and hydrate the skin, whilst Geranium, Orange, Bergamot, Clary Sage and Ylang Ylang essential oils all play their role in creating a truly luxurious pampering product.

Naturally Tribal Kola Nut Scrub*

Out of the exfoliating products, the Kola Nut Scrub is the one that I've found myself reaching for over the others, again because it has such a lovely awakening and uplifting scent, so I love using this first thing in the morning. It shares the same rich and exfoliating base as the Bitter Kola Nut Scrub, but this one has Lemongrass and Peppermint essential oils to give you an overall boost.

Naturally Tribal Iyali Body Food*

The brand's bestseller though is the Iyali Body Food and this is one that I would recommend if you're looking for an all-natural skin-soothing product that you can apply everywhere and anywhere. The full size comes in a huge 500ml jar and it's made from just five natural ingredients; Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Olive Fruit Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil and Arnica extract. Gentle enough for the whole family to use, it's a worthy investment as, like all of the other products above, a little most definitely goes a long way.

I also found samples of two of Naturally Tribal's oil-based products in the box; the Iya Intimate Shave Oil which is an ultra-rich blend of Grape Seed Oil, Argan Oil, Coconut Oil and Shea Butter, specially developed for the intimate area, but has been designed not to clog your razor; and Agu Aftershave & Beard Oil, a dual purpose oil to soften beards and prevent razor burn when shaving. 

To shop all of these products visit naturallytribalgroup.com

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Green Beauty: LoveLula Beauty Box - April 2018 review

The LoveLula beauty boxes are such a treat to receive every month and April's edition is another fine selection of natural and cruelty-free products. Want to take a closer look at what's inside?

Dr Botanicals Kale Superfood Nourishing Day Moisturiser (30ml, RRP £14.99)

Dr Botanicals are a new brand to me, and they're also new to the LoveLula website so there are two products from them in the box this month for subscribers to try out. The Kale Superfood Nourishing Day Moisturiser helps to smoothe and improve the appearance of your skin, whilst providing essential nourishment and hydration. And yes, as the name suggests, it does contain Kale extract which is high in vitamins C and E to help protect the skin from the elements. I've only been using it for a week so far, so early days yet, but I like the texture and it does feel hydrating, without being too much for my combination skin. 99.9% natural and vegan-friendly. 

Dr Botanicals Coffee Superfood Renewing Facial Exfoliator (30ml, RRP £14.90)

The second Dr Botanicals product is a pretty awesome manual facial exfoliator. It contains Green Coffee Oil (high in antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids) and finely crushed Walnut Shell Powder to gently polish away dull dead skin cells, leaving the complexion looking instantly brighter. It feels gentle but effective, and has a lovely texture that's also rather nourishing! A fab new addition to my skincare routine. 100% natural and vegan-friendly.

INIKA Certified Organic Cream Eye Shadow in Champagne (full size, RRP £21)

Worth £21 on its own, this Certified Organic Cream Eyeshadow from INIKA comes in a super pretty shimmery champagne shade that quickly brightens your eyes. It adds a subtle sheen of colour to the lids, and I'd even say that you could try using this as a liquid highlighter on the tops of the cheekbones as well for some extra glow to your look. It's easy to squeeze out a tiny bit through the nozzle applicator, dabbing and blending onto the eyelids with your fingers, or for a slightly more intensified look, you can pack it on with an eyeshadow brush instead.

Balm Balm Little Miracle Rosehip Balm (full size, RRP £12)

My favourite product from this month's box is the newest release from Balm Balm; their Little Miracle Rosehip Balm which really is amazing stuff! This fantastic multi-purpose balm can be used anywhere and everywhere to give your skin some TLC when it needs it the most. It features a deeply rich and hydrating mix of Rosehip, Jojoba and Borage Oils, expertly blended into Balm Balm's classic Balm base. There's also a range of essential oils added, such as Frankincense, Rose Geranium, Palmarosa, Juniper and Mandarin, to thoroughly pamper the skin from top to toe.

MADARA Skincare Samples

Lastly, there's a sample skincare set from MADARA which includes three of their bestselling products to try out; Cleansing Milk, Brightening AHA Peel Mask and Smart Antioxidants Fine Line Minimising Day Cream.

LoveLula Beauty Box* is a monthly subscription box priced at £13.95 with free postage in the UK. Visit lovelula.com to find out more.

Have you subscribed to LoveLula's Beauty Box?

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Currently Loving: 4 Vegan-Friendly Skincare Favourites from Antipodes

Antipodes are one of my favourite natural and organic skincare brands, but did you know that many of their products are also suitable for vegans to use? Here are my top 4 vegan-friendly picks from the popular luxury New Zealand brand. 

Best for Sensitive Skin: Antipodes Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser* (120ml, £24.99, link) 

One of the most annoying things about the mainstream skincare industry is the prevalence of products that are targeted at sensitive skin, which are anything but gentle. The mind truly boggles! Luckily though, sensitive skin types can enjoy this Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser from Antipodes which is fragrance-free and dermatologically approved for sensitive and irritated skin. The ultra-soothing formula uses a natural but powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient called Vinanza Oxifend, which is extracted from sustainably grown Pinot Noir Grapes. It also contains Avocado Oil and Marigold Bloom to nourish and soften, making this cleanser suitable for both morning and evening use. You can use Grace as a makeup remover too, but I prefer it more as a second cleanser in the evening, as it struggles with waterproof and stubborn liquid foundation formulas. However, if you wear light or mineral based makeup though, this will work a treat!

Best for All Skin Types: Antipodes Reincarnation Pure Facial Exfoliator* (75ml, £21.99, link)

If you're looking for an extremely gentle manual exfoliator to add to your skincare routine, Reincarnation is a must-try. Key ingredients include Avocado Oil, Kaolin, Apricot Oil, Calendula Oil and Marigold Flower Oil, which results in a thick and creamy formula that's studded with tiny, natural Jojoba beads. These minute scrubby particles expertly lift away dull, dead skin cells, leaving your complexion looking much clearer and brighter in a matter of minutes. The beauty of this exfoliator is that it's so gentle and feels very nourishing, so if you suffer from blackheads or clogged pores, you can use this on a more regular basis than most other manual face polishes, without worrying about it being too harsh or abrasive for your skin. 

Best for Oily, Sensitive & Combination Skin: Antipodes Rejoice Light Facial Day Cream* (60ml, £25.99, link)

I've used this moisturiser on and off for many years now and it's one of the best light day creams that I've found for oily skin. In fact, it's one that I use the most during the Summer months when my combination skin is at its oiliest because it does such a fantastic job of helping to balance those excess sebum levels. I think Rejoice works so well for me because of this awesome balancing formula - it doesn't strip the skin and it doesn't mattify, which is the most common downfall of most moisturisers that are aimed at oily skin types (stripping and mattifying only leads the skin to produce even more sebum as it tries to compensate for this moisture loss, so you end up getting stuck in a vicious cycle!).  Alongside Avocado, Macadamia and Jojoba Oils, you'll find Organic Manuka Flower Oil which is revered for its natural healing properties and I feel like this plays a part in helping to keep blemishes at bay. If all that doesn't sound good enough, this moisturiser is also clinically proven to boost the skin's natural production of Type l and lll collagen and elastin by up to 59%, so it's great for anti-ageing too.

Best for Everyone: Antipodes Immortal SPF 15 Face & Body Moisturiser* (60ml, £28.99, link)

Although Summer is a long way off, if you're starting to think about SPF protection for the coming Spring months, swapping your moisturiser for one that contains SPF 15 like Immortal can be a very beneficial skincare step to take. Formulated with a hero plant-based Hyaluronic Acid that locks in moisture, it also has the likes of Vinanza Grape, Kiwi Extract and Reishi, the latter of which encourages healthy cell growth, so this moisturiser is ideal for those looking for anti-ageing and firming benefits. Suitable for both face and body, Immortal has a slightly thicker than I was expecting consistency and feels a bit greasy when first applied, however after a few minutes or so, it absorbs and creates a nice smooth canvas for applying makeup afterwards. A hidden gem in Antipodes' skincare range!

Have you tried any of these?

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November Empties: Products I've Used Up

Another month is rapidly coming to a close so I think it's time for another Empties post! Here are my thoughts on everything that I've managed to use up recently, and whether I would repurchase them again.

Antonia Burrell Bright & Light Eye Cream* 

I featured this beautiful eye cream in my February Favourites earlier this year and I'd say it's one of my top 3 favourite eye creams, ever! I loved everything about it - from the light but easily absorbed texture, the way it smoothed and nourished my skin, to the cooling roll-on applicator which made puffy eyes disappear in the morning. Repurchase? Yes, definitely! I have some other eye creams to use up first, but it's on my shopping list!

Green People Natural Lip Primer*   

I have notoriously dry lips, especially during the Winter months, so I'm not surprised to see this Natural Lip Primer in this month's Empties pile. It feels like a regular, moisturising lip balm that comes in a twist-up lipstick style applicator and provides the perfect smooth base for any lipstick. Repurchase? Maybe - I'm not sure that it did anything that my regular lip balm doesn't do, but I did enjoy using it.

Caudalie Divine Oil

I've lost count of the number of times that I've raved about this amazing multi-purpose oil and its gorgeous scent, but I think this might be the last travel size bottle in my stash - nooooo! I love applying this to the ends and lengths of my hair as a leave-in conditioning oil, and it's simply divine as an all over pampering body oil too. Repurchase? On the Christmas wishlist!

Balance Me Restore & Replenish Cream Cleanser

Despite being a big fan of Balance Me, I didn't particularly like this cream cleanser for my combination skin. I felt it was too heavy and left a bit of residue, so you might like this more if your skin is drier. Repurchase? No.

Green People Fruit Scrub Exfoliator*

This is a really nice and gentle facial exfoliator made with natural and organic ingredients. Did a great job of unblocking clogged pores and made my whole complexion look brighter and clearer. A lovely find! Repurchase? Yes.

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo+

There was a time when I used this on a regular basis and saw results, but for some reason, this product no longer works for my skin. It just doesn't seem to do anything for me anymore and simply feels like a regular moisturiser that's neither hydrating or mattifying. Repurchase? No.

Tisserand Sweet Dreams Bath Oil*

Regular readers (and my Instagram followers no doubt!) will know that I'm not a good sleeper so I rely on a lot of aromatherapy products to help me unwind. I love Tisserand's Sweet Dreams range for this reason and their Bath Oil is so lovely and relaxing to use before going to bed. Repurchase? I think I already have a travel size of this somewhere - will need to dig it out!

Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Invigorating Shampoo & 50:50 Balanced Hydrating-Calming Conditioner

I've gone through a couple of these travel size bottles from Giovanni's haircare range, and this combo is definitely the one that works the best for my hair. The shampoo is great for oily roots but doesn't feel stripping, and the conditioner is just moisturising enough for regular use and doesn't weigh down my fine hair. Repurchase? Yes, I'll definitely pick up the full sizes once I've used up some of my other haircare products. 

Kadalys Hydramuse Comforting Cream*

I discovered this in a French beauty box and it's a beautiful daily facial moisturiser that feels calming and hydrating, and sinks into the skin quickly without any greasiness or sticky feeling. Great for Winter skin and makes a super smooth base for makeup in the morning. Repurchase? I can't find anywhere that sells this in the UK - if anyone knows a stockist, please let me know!

Which beauty products have you used up this month?

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Introducing: ESSE Skincare - Probiotic Serum+, Ultra Moisturiser, Eye Contour Cream+ & Cocoa Exfoliator review

Probiotic skincare has been one of the biggest trends in the skincare world lately, and with its strong emphasis on skin health, it's been one that I've been welcoming with open arms.

What is Probiotic Skincare?

When I think of probiotics, I immediately think of their role in helping to maintain a healthy gut e.g via consuming yoghurt that contains probiotics. I'm sure most of us have heard about the importance of having lots of 'good bacteria' in our stomach which keeps everything happy and balanced, and in a rather simplified way, this is what probiotic skincare effectively does. It helps to support the microbes, keeping a good balance going which is essential for healthy and glowing skin.

What are the Benefits of Probiotic Skincare?

There are trillions of microbes living on and in your skin (each human cell has at least 10 microbes, so it's easy to see how they all add up!), so it's important to maintain a healthy balance as the right amount of good microbes can help to slow down the visible signs of ageing. This is the area that probiotic skincare really excels in - anti-ageing, as these specific skincare formulas help to "create an environment on the skin that favours the growth of beneficial microbes so that they can out-compete pro-ageing species", leaving your skin looking more radiant and younger for longer.

There are a handful of high-end skincare brands who are leading the way with scientific breakthroughs about how microbes work, and South Africa's organic brand ESSE is a key player in the skincare industry thanks to their investments and research into how probiotics can help to slow down the ageing process. I've tested out a couple of ESSE's bestsellers below to demonstrate how you can incorporate probiotic skincare into your own daily skincare routine.

ESSE Probiotic Serum+* (30ml, £96, link) 

For those who take their skincare seriously and have the cash to splash, a serum is always a worthy investment and the one product that I personally tend to spend the most money on. Why? The overall composition of a good serum lends itself to being better absorbed by the skin than other skincare products, so a high-quality serum in your skincare routine can really make a big difference, giving you the most noticeable results in both the short and long term.

ESSE's Probiotic Serum+ is the most expensive serum that I've had the pleasure of trying out and it's been named the 'world’s first live probiotic serum' thanks to its highly innovative BIOME+ technology which contains 1 billion live probiotics per millilitre that are activated by the moisture on your skin. It feels rich and oil based, and is incredibly nourishing and hydrating due to the Jojoba Seed Oil, Shea Butter and Marula Oil in the formula. ESSE state that this serum is suitable for all skin types, however, I think oilier skin types may find this too rich as it really does pack a punch when it comes to plumping up and hydrating the skin. I've trialled this serum for just over three weeks now, using it in the evenings, and my skin has definitely started to feel much smoother and firmer. It's such a pleasure to use and I'll be sure update my thoughts when I finish the bottle in a future empties post.

ESSE Ultra Moisturiser* (50ml, £52, link)

ESSE's Ultra Moisturiser is described as a super-rich treatment 'to feed and satisfy the most thirsty of skins', so if you have very dry skin, this may be one to add to your shopping list so that you can fully protect your skin during the colder months ahead. It contains active ingredients such as Rooibos Extract (a potent antioxidant to fight premature ageing), Grape Seed Extract (to help improve the production of healthy collagen and elastin), high levels of LMW Hyaluronic Acid (to drastically improve hydration naturally) and Kigelia (to lighten age spots and even skin tone), in addition to probiotics for the ultimate anti-ageing powerhouse. Sadly, this moisturiser was far too rich for my combination skin type, but I've passed it onto my mum who has very dry, post-menopausal skin and it's been working wonders for her. It's been amazing to see such a visible improvement in the texture of her skin, so she's very happy with it!

ESSE Eye Contour Cream+* (15ml, £99, link)

Finding a good quality eye cream that makes a difference is the holy grail for skincare lovers, and this one is definitely in my top 3 favourite eye creams that I've ever used. Designed as 'an all-round' eye cream, this multi-tasking superstar aims to address all of the most common concerns such as crow's feet, puffiness and dark circles. In conjunction with the probiotic Lactobacillus Ferment, it uses some incredibly interesting and innovative ingredients such as Bellis Extract (helps to significantly lighten dark rings by inhibiting tyrosinase production and reducing melanin) Albizia Extract and Darutoside (to protect and strengthen the dermis, helping to reduce puffiness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles). A little goes a very long way, and like the rest of these products, I've been using it for just over three weeks. Since then, I've noticed that my eye area feels super smooth and a little firmer, plus my eyes are much less puffy in the mornings, but I've yet to see an improvement in my dark circles yet. Only time will tell I guess!

ESSE Cocoa Exfoliator* (50ml, £30, link) 

If you love chocolate/cocoa, you'll love this gentle but effective manual exfoliator - it honestly smells good enough to eat! Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, this exfoliator is rich in Cocoa Powder that's blended with a range of nourishing natural oils such as Coconut Oil, Sesame Seed Oil, Marula Oil and Manketti Seed Oil, to give the skin a deep cleanse and polish. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, helping to boost skin circulation and this is fantastic to use first thing in the morning to wake up the skin! My skin feels as soft as a newborn baby after using this and looks much more radiant too.

Overall thoughts?

ESSE's organic and probiotic skincare is not cheap, but given the level of investment and research that's gone into the formulas, plus their use of certified organic and fair-trade ingredients, I feel that their products are at a price point that is comparable to some popular mainstream brands who invest far less. Definitely a brand to check out if you're looking to try some new high-tech, anti-ageing skincare that's also natural and organic.

Shop the full range of ESSE Skincare via esseskincare.co.uk and lovelula.com

Have you tried any probiotic skincare before?

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New In: Urban Decay Rehab Makeup Prep Lip Love, Hot Springs Hydrating Gel, Pore Refining Peel & Meltdown Makeup Remover review

Last month, Urban Decay launched their brand new Rehab and Meltdown ranges, and I've been testing some of the products from these lines out to see what all the hype's about.

Aside from their awesome makeup which I've been using for years, two of my all time favourite products from Urban Decay are their All Nighter Setting Spray and the much-loved Eyeshadow Primer Potion.  So when I heard that they were releasing a whole range dedicated to the fine art of makeup-prep, I got pretty excited. 

The new Rehab range has four products in it and I've been lucky enough to get my hands on three of them which I've been diligently testing out recently. In addition to those, I've also been trying out one of Urban Decay's latest must-haves from their new Meltdown range (for makeup removal) as well, so here are my thoughts on these new kids on the beauty block!

Urban Decay Rehab Makeup Prep & Meltdown range

Urban Decay Rehab Makeup Prep Lip Love* (12.3g, £11, link)

Lip Love is an intensely hydrating lip balm treatment that comes packaged in a squeezy tube. It's formulated with the likes of Coconut Oil and Shea Butter to deeply nourish and help repair dry, cracked lips, and you can use this as a regular everyday lip balm, before applying any lip product to smooth out any fine lines and dry patches, and/or as an overnight lip treatment. It comes out quite thick (you only need a tiny amount!), but is quickly absorbed when you apply it to your lips. Whilst it does a great job of creating an ultra smooth canvas before I apply my lipstick, it doesn't really do anything else for me that my other (and cheaper) lip balms do, so I feel it's very expensive for what it is.

Urban Decay Rehab Makeup Prep Hot Springs Hydrating Gel* (55g, £22, link) 

The Hot Springs Hydrating Gel though is something that I've absolutely been loving! I'm somewhat obsessed with primers, partly due to the fact that I have oily/combination skin so it can sometimes be tricky to get makeup to stay put throughout the day. Some hydrating products are too much for my skin type, but this one is just perfect. The texture of it is like a thick gel in the jar, yet it transforms into a light watery substance once applied onto the skin and is instantly absorbed. It has some clever 'spring water encapsulated technology' that makes it do this, but all I can say is that it feels wonderfully light, cooling and refreshing on the skin. It eradicates any pesky dry patches like around my nose, and it helps to balance the oilier parts of my t-zone so that my makeup keeps on looking good all day. I've tried it on my sister who has dry skin, and it worked well for her too, so I imagine many skin types will like it. A new summer staple for sure!   

Urban Decay Rehab Makeup Prep Pore Refining Peel* (30ml, £24, link)

I often use exfoliating peels and face masks before a special occasion to get my skin looking its best, so I was curious to try out this Pore Refining Peel to see how it compares to the skincare products that I already use. This new peel-off mask is aimed at those who want to reduce the size of their pores as it promises to clean out impurities, leaving the skin clearer and smoother, ready for makeup. You need to give the tube a good squeeze to get the product out, and it applies like a clear gel onto the skin. I applied it to my troublesome t-zone area where I get most of my blackheads and left it on for 10 minutes as instructed. When it was time to remove it, I carefully peeled it off and had a good look in the mirror afterwards. To be honest, I didn't notice any difference and there were no blackheads or 'gunk' on the mask afterwards, plus my skin and pores didn't look any clearer than they were before. I think this product might be a better option for those with more sensitive skin who want a very gentle peel-off mask, but I personally found it rather disappointing, as there are lots of similar products that work a lot better for me and are much cheaper too.

Urban Decay Meltdown Makeup Remover Dissolving Spray* (100ml, £23.50, link)

From the new Meltdown range, I've been testing out the Makeup Remover Dissolving Spray which is a pretty nifty product to use if you love wearing long-wearing and waterproof makeup formulas. It's composed of just three ingredients (two silicone based ones and Vitamin E), and to use it, you just spray it onto a cotton wool pad and it can wipe the most stubborn makeup off within seconds, though it sometimes does require another round with the cotton wool pad for removing all of my waterproof eye makeup. I've also sprayed it directly onto my face (with my eyes closed!) and it's worked just the same. Although it's an oil-free formula, it does have a slightly oily/greasy feel to it when it's on the skin, so I'd recommend following this up with a good cleanser afterwards to get your skin thoroughly clean after you've removed all of your makeup with this. I love how quick and easy this spray is to use - now there's no excuse not to take off your makeup when you come home late!

Have you tried any of these new products from Urban Decay?

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