SKIN SCHOOL: REN

Acid Toners: an update

Friday, February 05, 2016

If you read my toning post here, you'll see that I recommended a few different options for acid toners.
Acid toning is one of the best things I ever did for my skin, it was one of the main things that completely cleared it up (along with using good skincare products alongside, and starting to use Liquid Gold.)
If you don't already, I would really recommend starting. Metaphorically speaking, it's a bit like blowing a loud horn into your ear, forcing your skin into action.
I always apply two toners, so first I use an acid toner to exfoliate, then I use a hydrating spritz toner directly afterwards to hydrate and moisturise, before applying the rest of my routine.
Honestly, you will fall in love with acid toning when you see the difference it makes to your skin.

I have a quick update today, firstly is about a toner I mentioned in my toning post mentioned above, the REN Clarimatte Clarifying Toner.

So, this has been one of my favourite toners for a while now, but I've stopped buying it recently as they have unfortunately changed the formulation. The glycolic and lactic acid that used to be in it, have been replaced with passion fruit and pineapple extract, which won't have nearly as much of a positive effect on the skin. It's also annoying that they say it contains 'no drying alcohol' when it does, in fact, contain alcohol denat. I really love the rest of the REN products though, but I wish they hadn't changed this!

Secondly, I want to draw your attention to the exfoliating toners available from Bravura London, which I am dying to try!

Detoxifying Eucalyptus Astringent Toner 15% AHA/BHA 150ml

Revitalising Ginseng Toner with Glycolic Acid 5% 150ml

There are three types available, and they all contain acids. They are all only £12.90 which is really affordable, click here to view them on the website. Once I have run out of the ones I'm currently using, I am definitely going to be buying one of these, I think I'll go for the Revitalising Ginseng one, or the Purifying Calendula one. My last post was also about Bravura's acid treatments, which I am really pleased with, I promise, I'm not being sponsored by them! I'm just really impressed with the products and their price points.

Until next time!

Decleor

Moisturisers

Monday, November 09, 2015

Today's post is going to be about your coat, your protection from the elements, your moisturiser.

Your moisturiser is the 'top coat' for your skin after application of serums or treatments. Far too many people spend ages choosing their moisturiser, but don't think about what goes on their skin beforehand. Prep your skin properly, and the ingredients in your moisturiser will work better.

Firstly, a few tips:

Avoid moisturisers containing mineral oil..or any skincare products containing it for that matter (also mentioned in my previous post), it just sits on the skin and doesn't have any benefits. Look on the ingredients list for 'mineral oil/petrolatum/paraffin'.
Try to avoid serums & moisturisers containing silicone. Silicone is used in products to provide 'slip', and makes the product feel almost silk-like upon application. It does the same sort of thing as mineral oil - just sits on top of the skin, and doesn't absorb. Typically, anything on the ingredients list ending in 'cone' are silicone (dimethicone/methicone).
Silicones are fine in make-up - that's what you want make up to do, sit on the skin, not absorb into it. Basically the opposite of what your skincare products should be doing.
Don't be tempted to apply a thick layer of moisturiser all at once, it'll just sit on top and won't absorb. Apply a thin layer, wait a little while, apply some more. As long as it's still absorbing, you can apply as much as you need. If my skin is feeling particularly dehydrated and I'm at home all day wearing no make up, I'll keep adding a little moisturiser throughout the day.
Wait a few minutes before applying make-up after you moisturise, to let it sink in and avoid it getting mixed in with your make-up. I will normally moisturise, then do something else like my hair or get dressed, then move onto make-up.
You don't always need a moisturiser containing SPF. The SPF will overtake any active ingredients in your moisturiser, making it less effective. If you do like to wear SPF every day, apply a separate one over the top of your moisturiser. Personally, my make-up contains SPF so that's all I need, plus, I spend most of my days in a dimly lit treatment room with no windows, so I don't particularly need a separate one. Of course, if you work outside/ are outside a lot, you will need one. For anyone with acne-prone skin, try to use oil free SPF's, as most generally are comedogenic.
Include your lips when you moisturise your face, don't neglect them, they need the moisture too. Include them in your whole routine!

Below are some recommendations for moisturisers, for all different skin types, from high end, to 'budget'. I understand that budgets are different for everyone, but from my experience, you won't get a decent product for a couple of ££s. There's a reason why these high street products and make up wipes are so cheap, because the ingredients in them are cheap. You get what you pay for, and you only get one face - treat it right.

Decleor Hydra Floral Hydrating Light/Rich Cream, £39.50 available here.

This is a gorgeous, hydrating, milky cream, perfect for this time of year. It's so comforting and creamy, and smells fresh & heavenly. It's main ingredients are neroli essential oil, wild pansy and samphire for 24 hour hydration, plus moringa & sunflower for protection. Decleor uses the highest quality essential oils and purest ingredients in their products, which I love.

Skin types: There is a light and rich version of this cream, the light is better for oily skin, and rich for dry skin. However, I'd say they are both suitable for all skins.

To use: Apply as the last part of your routine, smooth a small amount all over the face and neck.

Origins Make A Difference Plus+, £35, available here.

A gorgeous creamy light texture, which is really hydrating and rejuvenating. This really helps to surge moisture levels in the skin, it contains lychee, watermelon and 'rose of jericho'. It has a really gorgeous fresh scent, and is suitable for morning or evening. This is also one of Michelle Keegan's favourites!

Skin types: all, especially dry, dehydrated.

To use: same as above.

Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Jelly, £24.99 available at Boots. (On offer at the moment for £16.66!)

This is my current moisturiser, and I'm loving it. It's really plumping and hydrating, and contains one of my favourite ingredients, hyaluronic acid. It's the moisturiser version of the hydraluron serum I mentioned in my last post. This, like the serum, has no scent, and is a clear, jelly like texture (as the name suggests). It absorbs into the skin really well, and provides immediate 'comfort' at this time of year when skin can be parched. I love the pump packaging too, it gives you just the right amount of product, and is also nice and hygienic as it's airtight, and also avoids having to dip your fingers into the pot.
Skin types: all, literally everyone!
To use: apply one pump all over the face and neck, as the last step of your skincare routine.

REN Vita Mineral Daily Supplement Moisturising Cream, £20 available here.

Vita Mineral™ Daily Supplement Moisturising Cream

A great, radiance-boosting, skin treat. This helps replenish moisture levels, and contains excellent anti-oxidants, vitamins and nutrients that are just amazing on the skin. This also helps reduce redness and sensitivity in the skin. Again, I love the pump packaging, hygienic and easy to use.

Skin types: all, especially dry. Not the best for acne-prone skin as it contains shea butter which can be slightly heavy.

To use: same as above.

Super Facialist Probiotic Skin Recovery Day Cream £14.99 available at Boots.

This one I'd say is the 'budget' option. Plus, Boots often have 3 for 2 or similar offers on. This one is silicone and mineral oil free, and suitable for most skin types. It contains aloe vera which is great for sensitivity and redness on the skin, and arnica, it does also contain shea butter which can be slightly heavy on oily, acne prone skin. It's a very soothing, and comforting milky cream, brilliant for the colder months.

Skin types: most, apart from acne prone skin.

To use: same as above.

If you have any questions just pop them in the comment section below :)

beauty

Toning

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Today's post is going to be about toning, along with some recommendations.

Why should I use a toner?

So, so, so many people miss out toning, because they either;
1. don't know what they do, or 2. think they are too drying/astringent.

Toners are used to rebalance the pH level of your skin after cleansing, and to shrink the pores, so that bacteria & pollution don't build up in the pores and cause dryness/dullness/spots. Note - toners are not used to 'remove traces of cleanser' or 'remove make-up residue'....if your cleanser does not remove your make-up or clean your face, you are not cleansing properly, or you need a new cleanser.

Yes, some toners are very astringent and drying on the skin, particularly those with a high alcohol content (~~aherm, Clinique!~~). You may aswell use nail polish remover.

I love acid toners, containing AHA's such as lactic acid (resurfacing, great for dry and dehydrated skin), glycolic acid (resurfacing, stimulating for better collagen production), and salicylic acid (great for spots/acne). The acid kicks your skin into action, sloughing away dead skin cells, and providing a perfect base for serums/moisturisers, allowing them to do their work properly.

The ones I recommend are gentle enough to use every day, as the acid content isn't too high. However, some people can have reactions to acids, just as they can have reactions to any other ingredients in products, like essential oils, so if you have extremely reactive/hyper sensitive skin, they may be best to avoid. It's important to note that you may experience a 'tingling' sensation for the first few times you use acids, but it disappears after a while.

Note: Alpha H Liquid Gold, recommended in one of my other posts, is not a toner. It should be used overnight, once or twice a week.
For those of you who don't want to use acid toners, I've listed a couple of acid-free ones.

Using the correct toner, will be one of the best things you ever do for your skin, trust me, you will see a difference.

Decleor Aroma White C+ Hydra-Brightening Lotion, £24.50, available here.

This is an acid-free formula, for those of you nervous about trying acid toners. It's still brightening and resurfacing, as it contains vitamin C, along with papaya and lemon. It's radiance boosting and gentle enough to use every day.

I really love a lot of Decleor products, they are a really good quality skincare brand.
Skin types: all
To use: after cleansing, apply some to a cotton pad and wipe over the skin.

Elemis Soothing/Rehydrating/Balancing Toner, £22.50 available here.

These are great toners for anyone who has never used one before. They are alcohol free, and acid free, so a great starting point if you've never had a proper skincare routine before. There are three different types, the one pictured is the Soothing Apricot Toner, it smells amazing, and is perfect for very sensitive, hormonal skin, and rosacea. There is also a Rehydrating Ginseng one, great for dry, dehydrated and mature skin, and lastly, a Balancing Lavender one, which is brilliant for oily/combination/spot prone skin. They are all the same price (£22.50), and are really good quality, and all smell gorgeous.

Skin types: I'd say they are all suitable for all skin types, however it's best to go for the one that you think best suits you.

To use: they come with a spray top, so you can spray it onto a cotton pad and wipe over the skin, or spritz directly onto the face if you're in a rush. Apply after cleansing, before moisturising.

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads, between £18-£22, available at most places online, including here.

These are a great starting point if you haven't used acids before. They are nice and gentle, but still kick your skin into action. Containing lactic and glycolic acid, along with cucumber and lemon peel, this is a lovely alcohol free brightening, exfoliating toner. They also contain hyaluronic acid, which is really hydrating. These can be used everyday, they are pre-soaked pads so there is no need for a cotton pad. Each pot contains 60 pads, so it's good value for money. This is one of the best affordable options for an acid toner, and one of my favourites out of this bunch.

Skin types: all, including sensitive skin.

To use: wipe over the skin with one of the pre-soaked pads after your cleanser, before your moisturiser.

Pixi Glow Tonic, £18, available here.

This is a gorgeous, exfoliating skin tonic that is gentle enough to use everyday. This is another of my favourites out of the bunch, it's alcohol free and also contains soothing aloe vera and oxygenating ginseng. I tend to prefer using this once a day rather than twice, so it was mostly in the evenings I'd use them.

Skin types: all.

To use: after cleansing, apply some to a cotton pad and wipe over the skin.

Clinique Mild Clarifying Lotion, £16.50 available here and at Boots.

I know it may seem like I'm contradicting myself here, but this clarifying lotion from the Clinique range is not the same as the other clarifying lotion toners they do. This, along with the 'Take the Day off' cleansing balm mentioned in my last post, are the only two Clinique products I like and would recommend. Most of the other products are harsh and stripping on the skin. However, this one is an alcohol free formula, so non-stripping, and it's main ingredient is salicylic acid.

Skin types: combination/oily/spot prone skin.

To use: after cleansing, apply some to a cotton pad and wipe over the skin.

REN Clarimatte Clarifying Toner, £13 available here.

I've mentioned this in a couple of my other posts, this is the toner I've been using recently, it's one of the most affordable options. It has glycolic and lactic acid in it, so it really helps slough off dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling clear, radiant and smooth, ready for your serum/moisturiser.

Skin types: all, particularly oily/spot prone skin.

To use: after cleansing, apply some to a cotton pad and wipe over the skin.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Lotion, £11.00, available here.

This is another affordable option, containing mainly salicylic acid, which really helps prevent breakouts and clear up any current ones. As above, this one does also contain alcohol denat, which can be slightly drying on the skin.

Skin types: all, particularly oily/spot prone skin

To use: as above.

If you have any questions please ask in the comment section below, and remember to subscribe!

beauty

Recommended Cleansers

Sunday, October 25, 2015

I thought this post would work well with my last post where I banged on about cleansing.

Below are some options for cleansers that I have used, that I thought would be worth recommending. If you are looking for a new cleanser, or don't have a proper routine yet, keep reading!

All of these cleansers are balm, oil, or cream/milk consistencies, no foaming gels or bubbles. I much prefer balm or oil cleansers as I find they are much more effective at removing grime and make-up (when removed with a cloth).

I am a big fan of 'double cleansing'. This basically means your first cleanse is to remove make-up & surface dirt, and your second cleanse is to clean your skin, and remove impurities not visible to the naked eye.
As a general rule, I use my more 'expensive' product for my second cleanse, as they generally contain ingredients that I want to be working directly on my skin, rather than on top of my make up. So I use a micellar water first on cotton pads all over my face, and then use my proper cleanser second. But if you prefer, you can use just one cleanser (not micellar water) as your first and second cleanse.
Note: The only time I don't double cleanse is in the mornings, or if I've been home all day and not wearing any make-up.

I've said it before, but cleansing is the most important step in your skincare routine. If you are 'cleansing' using wipes or just water alone, and then slapping a really expensive serum/moisturiser on, it won't be working properly.

First up:

CLEANSING BALMS

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm £39.50, available here.

I talked about this product in my PM cleansing routine post. This is one of my favourite cleansers ever. For me, this is a skin cleanser rather than a make up remover, however it can be used for both. It's a gorgeous balm consistency, that isn't too solid like some other balms can be. It melts impurities and grime, there is also a cleansing cloth included in the box.
Skin types: all, particularly dry and mature skin. Not great for those with sensitivity to essential oils.
To use: massage a small amount into your skin whilst it's dry, it then turns into an oil consistency. You can then remove it at this point, using your flannel/cloth, which is what I do, or add a little water onto the skin to emulsify it, and then remove with your cloth. I would never try to remove any balm cleanser by rinsing with water, you always should remove with a cloth.

Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm £38 available here.

Moringa Cleansing Balm with Cleansing Cloth

This is another of my favourites, on par with the Elemis one above they are also around the same price point, and this also includes a cleansing cloth. I love the smell of this, it's impossible not to like it! It's really plumping and softening, and reconditioning which is great for dull, dry, dehydrated skin, however, this one is also suitable for all skin types. Moringa is also a powerful anti-oxidant.
Skin types: all, particularly dry and mature skin. Not great for those with sensitivity to essential oils.
To use: same way as above.

Clinique 'Take The Day Off' Cleansing Balm £22 available here.

This balm is a similar consistency to the two above, however I found it slightly thicker, but it still transforms into a silky oil consistency on the skin. It is almost a 'dupe' for the two above, however it is free of essential oils, so it doesn't smell as luxurious and lovely as the others.
To use: same as the two above.
Skin types: all, especially great for sensitive skin, and those who suffer with acne.
As a side note: this is the only Clinique product I would actually recommend. I am not a fan of their 3-step system.

Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter £13 available here.

Although this is called a cleansing butter, I still consider it a cleansing balm. The consistency is what it says on the tin - like butter. A little goes a long way, and the camomile is really great for redness, and soothing the skin.
To use: same way as the ones above, massage into dry skin, and thoroughly remove with a warm, damp flannel.
Skin types: This one is more suited to dry/very dry skin and sensitive skin, but not suitable for acne/breakout prone skin, as it does contain synthetic waxes and shea butter.

Lush Ultrabland £7.50 available here.

This is the most affordable cleansing balm I have come across, you won't find a decent one for a lower price. It's main ingredients are beeswax, honey and rosewater.
To use: same as the ones above.
Skin types: suitable for all skin types, but you have to really make sure this is removed properly as it is quite thick.

CLEANSING OILS

Super Facialist Skin Renew Cleansing Oil by Una Brennan, £10.99 available here.

I talked about this in my PM cleansing routine, it's what I've been using for the last few weeks. It's really brightening and softening, it smells really citrus-y and fresh. The only thing that annoys me about this, is the packaging. You have to pour it out into your hand and try to flip the lid back on whilst you're balancing the oil in the other hand...only a very minor detail, it doesn't actually effect the product itself!
To use: massage this onto dry skin, don't wet it first, and then remove with a warm, damp flannel. Always, always remove oils and balms with flannels, don't try to rinse them off.
Skin types: All, especially dry skin.

Body Shop Camomile Silky Cleansing Oil, £11.00 available here.

This is a really lovely product, it's really softening and silky, and feels gorgeous on the skin. On the plus side; this has a pump, yay! Much easier to use than having to pour it into your hand.
To use: same as above.
Skin types: all, especially dry skin.

CLEANSING MILKS/CREAMS

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel £28.00 available here.

I'm not sure where to place this one, it's consistency is almost like a mixture of a balm, milk and oil all in one, even though it's called a 'gel'. It has amazing ingredients in it which are really brightening, including vitamins A, C & E, starflower oil, and pumpkin enzymes, which are known to gently exfoliate, eating away at dead skin cells. It's a difficult scent to describe, but it smells nice, my boyfriend used it once and said it smelt like turkish delight. This is really nice to use as a second cleanse in the evenings, and also as a morning cleanser.
To use: massage into dry skin, and remove with a cloth, same as all of the above.
Skin types: all, particularly dull, oily skin. Not the best for very sensitive skin, as the pumpkin enzymes are quite 'active'.

ESPA Balancing Foam Cleanser, £24.00 available here.

I love this cleanser. I know I advise against using foam cleansers, and I still do, however with this one, it's the pump that makes it foamy, not the actual product itself, there are no stripping sulphates in this. It's main ingredients are coconut, and organic mandarin which helps to balance the skins natural oils. This smells gorgeous, it's a really soft orange scent.

I used this one in the morning, mainly because the consistency isn't thick enough to remove make up properly.

To use: massage into dry skin, and rinse off with water.

Skin types: oily/combination, but suitable for all skin types.

Elemis Cleansers £22.50, available here.

I have put 'cleansers' here because there are three different formulations of this cleanser, based on your skin type. They are all the same price, and in the same packaging, just the ingredients differ in each one. They are all a lovely creamy, milky consistency, and leave your skin feeling soft and smooth, not stripped. The one pictured is the 'Rehydrating Rose Petal Cleanser' which is great for dry & dehydrated skin. There is also a 'Soothing Chamomile' version, for sensitive and hormonal skin, and a 'Balancing Lime Blossom' version, for oily/combination skin.
To use: same way as the ones above, massage into dry skin, and thoroughly remove with a warm, damp flannel.
Skin types: They are all suitable for all skin types, however there are different ones suited for different skin concerns.

REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk £16.00, available here.

This is a really lovely product, it's really gentle and refreshing. This would be a nice one to use if you don't like using balm or oils, as milks are not as 'greasy' feeling.
To use: same as the above.
Skin types: all, especially sensitive

Soap and Glory 'The Ultimelt' Hot Cloth Cleanser £10.00 available here and at Boots.

This is a great cleanser, it's really refreshing and invigorating to use, and is almost a clay like consistency. It smells nice too. I used this as either a second cleanse in the evenings, or as my morning cleanse. I really like the packaging, there's something satisfying about it! It's like a giant toothpaste tube.
To use: Same as the above, massage onto dry skin, and remove with a warm, damp cloth.
Skin types: all, especially oily/combination. Not the best for those with sensitivity to essential oils.

I hope this post has been helpful, if you have any questions just pop them in the box below.

Please follow me by putting your email address in the box below to keep up to date!