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Serum addiction - it's a thing

I have A LOT of beauty products. These range from lip pencils to lipsticks to hair mist and cream blush. One product collection that is certainly growing is serums. I just love them and I have tried many of them! Today I wanted to share my current favourites, so let's go.


Skin Saints Vit C Illuminating Serum

This little bottle of light offers skin a extra boost of hydration which in turn gives skin a bit more of a glow. As we know, Vitamin C is a powerhouse for offering smoothness and brighness, and for the price, I think that this serum is really good. I bought this in Tesco by the way, a little extra treat that isn't a doughnut!

Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth serum

So, this is now a huge favourite of mine. Not only the gorgeous branding (the marketer in me) but the contents are pretty special to. This brand is founded by two skin care fanatics (Sarah Lee and Christine Chang) with over 20 years of experience in the global beauty industry.  The serum contains actives ingredients that are hardworking but gentle. The Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Serum tackles rough textures and offers a radiant complexion with use. Oh and it looks pretty gorgeous on your dressing table/cabinet as well!


BIO Effect EGF Serum

This is a powerhouse if you are looking for help with anti-aging and a need to help prevent and target signs of skin aging. It also adds in moisture to the skin. There are only 7 pure ingredients, including their signature Barley EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor),which is a protein that helps support the skin’s natural production of collagen. If you are looking for skin that looks smooth and healthy, this is definitely a serum to consider.


I love all of these for their individual qualities. Some are more expensive than other yes, but they do deliver on different levels according to your needs. Do I have an addiction... I like to find products that work yes, and I think I have found some for now....


What is your favourite serum? What are your skin needs, I might be able to recommend a serum to help?


Comment below, follow me on Insta at @claritybeautymc or ping me an email: allyson@claritybeauty.co.uk 


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An empty review you need to read!

I've come to the end of another great product. I bought the Optimum Vitamin C serum whilst I was in Superdrug around 3 or 4 months ago. This is some indication as to how long it has lasted which is not bad when used every day. The packaging suggests it can be used morning and night, but I only use a Vitamin C serum in the morning on cleansed skin, which is correct practice unless I am mistaken. 

The packaging is compact with a clear lid. It has a nice pump to release the product which makes using it very easy. So what is the serum like? It is clear in appearance, with a stable texture and smells of citrus which was lovely each morning, a really fresh scent. I used a small amount, perhaps a UK 5p size, if that. This covered the whole of my face and my neck. The feeling initially was a little sticky on my face, however, that didn't last and it melted into my skin. Where does this fit into my skin regime? I use a Vitamin Serum on clean skin before anything else. I then apply my moisturiser, then my SPF 50 last. All of these together create a superb base for my makeup. 

The results

The serum contains 10% vitamin C and can help with fine lines and wrinkles. It also can brighten and smooth the surface of the skin. I'm now over forty, so any product that can support my ageing journey is most welcome! I will say that the daily use of the serum made my skin feel very hydrated and flexible. I'm lucky that I don't have wrinkles (yet), so I cannot comment on its success with those. I am mainly looking for my skin to look healthy, smooth, and bright and I can confirm that this serum delivered these aspects. It quickly became an integrated part of the regime, and I have missed it since I finished the tube. 

Would I buy it again?

Yes, I would. It is a great serum for a light everyday Vitamin C option. I would be interested to hear of any other Vitamin C serum options you may have used? 

I firmly believe that having a healthy diet, exercising, and drinking plenty of water all contribute to glowing skin and a healthy body and mind. Being able to use and experience various products is also lots of fun. :)

Thanks for reading, get in touch on my Instagram @claritybeautymc

Bye for now, Ally x

 

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The Rich cream.... a very special cream!


Hi there, it's Ally, your beauty and skincare addict! I am so excited to tell you all about this gorgeous cream, from a brand that you may not have heard about (well I hadn't).

So, how did I get to use this cream? I was very lucky to receive my Selfridges Advent Calendar last year and the Augustinus Bader 'The Rich Cream' was one of the little treats inside! As soon as I picked it out of the calendar I could instantly feel this was a special cream. The beautiful colours (a blue bottle with rose gold and white writing) of the branding and the weighted bottle just oozed class. I immediately pulled the lid off which revealed a tiered pump from which the cream would come. I knew I would enjoy using this cream and couldn't wait to start.

The Rich Cream with TFC8

Let's dig deeper into the product inside the bottle. The cream is white in colour, nothing fancy, nothing sparkly, just a solid white cream. I didn't take a photo as it would have been a really boring image! The texture is sumptuous and luxurious, the kind of cream that you pump out onto your hand, and it stays put and doesn't run off. Although it is slightly heavier than the creams I have used, it blended into my face and neck beautifully. It was not heavy, greasy, or left a residue of any kind on my skin. The only observation I will make is that it has an unusual scent. It isn't unpleasant, it isn't fragrant it's just a smell. However, once it is rubbed into the skin, the smell fades and there is nothing there. I've noticed it so I thought it was worth mentioning. 

The cream is backed by over thirty years of research by Professor Bader, who is a pioneer in the field of stem cell biology and a doctor of regenerative medicine. It is full of amazing skin-loving ingredients and nutrients. This cream is designed to hydrate, nourish and take special care of your skin. The magic ingredient is TFC8 which is the science part! The cream is designed to focus on skin renewal and has the renewing complex inside this and all this range. I would recommend clicking the above links to learn more about the technology and research that has gone into this cream, it is quite fascinating.

What were my thoughts?  

What is there not to love about this face cream? A little goes a long way, and because of its texture, it melts into the skin with little effort. I always use an SPF after a moisturiser, and I was a little worried that using both would cause greasiness, but no. The cream doesn't have an SPF so remember that if you want to try this, a separate SPF will be needed (if you use one). I love the feeling of hydration I get from this cream and I am certain that my skin is smoother. I've been using it since Boxing Day, so that is enough time to tell. A 15ml bottle of this cream will cost around £71 so it is certainly not cheap, but after reading about the specialist ingredients, time, and research that have gone into its production, I can understand why. I would love to have this as my daily cream and I would definitely like to try some other products in this range.

I hope you have enjoyed my review of this face cream. Please remember that having a healthy diet, exercising, and drinking plenty of water all contribute to glowing skin and a healthy body and mind. Having amazing products like these also helps, as well as being so fun to explore. 

What did you like most about this cream? What is your favourite face cream? Leave a comment I'd love to hear. :)

Why not follow me on my Instagram and TikTok profiles, both @claritylstyle

Take care and catch up soon. Thanks, Ally x 

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Eve Lom moisture cream

Today is the day that my Eve Lom moisture cream is coming to an end. Sad times, but I couldn't let this one go without jotting down a few lines. 

I've been using this cream for a couple of months and I have really enjoyed it. The fragrance of the cream is quite strong and I was a little worried that it would agitate my skin. This didn't happen and there were no reactions (other than positive) to my skin. 

The cream's texture is rich and glides onto the skin with ease. Even though it is a heavier cream than I was used to, it isn't heavy on the skin at all. I did feel like my skin drank up the moisture and lovely ingredients. I only use this as part of my daily routine, as I use a separate night cream for that extra moisture surge whilst I sleep! It is also a great base for makeup as I have discovered. The cream is very nourishing and leaves my skin soft and supple, however, I can't say that it has left my skin looking any younger. 

The pot screams luxury and its weight and design definitely deliver this. It looks beautiful on my dresser and I will miss seeing it once it is finished. 

Will, I re-purchase? Unfortunately, I don't think so. I think it is a lovely cream, but it is very expensive and not something I would payout for. I'm now on the lookout for another day cream, not overly fussed about the SPF as I use a separate one. What are you using? Drop some ideas in the comments for me.

Why not come and join me on my Insta page @claritybeautymc it would be great to see you! 

 

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Sweet dreams

Today marks the tenth day I have been using my Mark & Spencer Silk pillowcase which costs enough at £29.50. Does this product fall into the beauty and skincare category? Yes, I think it does.  It claims to put an end to bad hair mornings and offers sleepers an anti bedhead benefit. It claims also that it can work to reduce lines on your face and allow your skin and hair to retain moisture. Is this the case? Read on to find out. Oh and forgive the slightly random photography in this post, pillowcases are obviously not my niche! 

My silk pillowcase was in fact a gift from my husband for Mother's Day. I had been mentioning (quite a few times) that I really wanted to try one, and just like that, one appeared on my special day. Who knew! I digress. So, the pillowcase came in a small cardboard package, which on opening expanded into a normal-sized pillowcase. Both sides are in fact silk, as some have a cotton side on one side. The feel was immediately dreamy.  I love grey and the boy did good buying the perfect colour for me. 

My feedback about this pillowcase is that no, I am not looking 10 years younger, but yes my locks are definitely smoother and not so scarecrow first thing! I love lying on the silk, it's soft and so luxurious on my face, and I must say that I don't think that it soaks up my potions and lotions as much from my nighttime routine. This can only be a really positive outcome in my opinion. I hope then, that this contributes to the anti-aging process whilst I sleep. Why not take a look at my cleanse, tone and moisturise routine for some great tips to up your skincare routine here.   

Functionality to me is important, and this pillowcase can be washed at 40 degrees in your washing machine. It advises not to tumble dry, so I have followed said instructions. It does, however, dry very quickly and hasn't lost any of its quality feel afterwards.

The big question to answer is... are they worth the spend? At £29.50, it is a lot to spend on a pillowcase when its cotton counterpart is much cheaper. But to answer my question, I would say yes. Even if they don't make me lose 10 years overnight, the luxury and comfort they bring are so nice. I'm over forty now, so I will happily add luxury (and an extra bit of help) to my world of beauty, skincare and anti-aging and enjoy the small benefits that come with that little luxury. 

The range of silk pillowcases and their prices is vast on the internet, and I would be interested to be able to compare a £100 one to my one, we'll have to see if that happens. Have you used a silk pillowcase and what did you think? Comment below and let's compare notes.  

Why not follow me on my Instagram page @claritybeautymc where I share lots of bits and bobs from beauty and skincare to positive vibes.  See you there.   


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Products I use... Part 2 - Tone and moisturise PM


Howdy and welcome to part 2 of my evening cleansing routine, tone and moisturise! I admit, taking off my makeup and pampering my skin is a perfect end to my day. Our skin works hard for us so let's get cracking and I'll take you through my routine. 

Toner

I read conflicting arguments regarding the use of toner. Personally, I tone after cleansing. I find that it removes any residue that is on my skin and I like the feeling of my clean skin afterwards. I am going through a bit of a trial with a couple of products from Aldi, Lacura. I'm using the Healthy Glow Glycolic Toner, which is a dupe for the Pixi Glow Exfoliating Tonic. Whilst it is doing what I need it to do, I won't change it. To use this product, just dampen a cotton wool pad with the product and sweep over the face (avoiding under the eyes) which can be a bit harsh for the gentle skin around the eyes. It's as simple as that. I would recommend monitoring how the skin reacts if you are not used to using a toner and deciding from there if it is right for you. I really like this toner, so would recommend it for sure. There are also spray mists which I have seen other beauty bods using, have you tried any? 

Facial Oil

Next in my repertoire is facial oil. In all honesty, I have only started using a facial oil in the last month or so. I felt like my skin needed some extra moisture. I had read some lovely reviews about the oil I am using which is Lacura Healthy Glow Rose Oil. First things first, the packaging is okay, it's basic and I prefer to have the bottle transparent so I can see how much I have left. (random) I do, however, like the rose gold detail on the dropper. The product inside has a beautiful rose scent (funny that), and I use about two drops each evening. Rub it into your hands and blend into your face (avoiding the eye area again). The oil is not heavy on the skin, I definitely feel my skin soaks up the liquid and the rose scent last a while which is lovely. A word of advice would be to let it soak up before applying your next product. 

Eye Cream

Who doesn't love a good eye cream? I'm a big eye cream fan and I'm currently using quite a posh one. It is the Nuxe Nuxuriance Ultra Eye and Lip contour (anti-aging). It claims to reduce wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness and slackness around the eye and lip area. I have been using it for some time and I am really enjoying it. It has saffron and Bougainvillea Bi-floral cells, which contributes to the gorgeous smell it has. I don't have very dark circles or slackness (yet) so I cannot confirm or deny it offers miracles there. All I can say is that I really like using it daily and my outer eye area is bright and smooth.  

Retinol

Well well well, now it's time for the big boys. Retinol, which is a derivative of Vitamin A is a product used for skin renewal, something I have used for about two months. I'm over 40 now, so I thought that it was time I started to use some proper anti-aging products. I can only write about my experience, but I am pretty sure it has reduced some fine lines on my face, especially on my forehead! I am using The Inkey List Retinol, which was personally recommended by another skincare junkie. If you are new to using Retinol, this one is a good place to start. Generally, there are levels of Retinol, usually measured in percentages. At 1% this is fairly low but can still cause a reaction if not used correctly. My way, which has been problem-free is as follows:

1. Use a pea-sized amount and rub it into the skin, cheeks, forehead and neck (avoiding the eye area).

2. Let it soak in and ensure to follow up with your night cream of choice. 

Please make sure that these steps are followed as it helps to lock in the product and not cause the dry/red patchy skin you can get. Don't be afraid of Retinol, it just needs to be used properly and consistently to get results. I think I will try a higher percentage soon, any recommendations for me? 

Night Cream

I do feel that a night cream should be the piece de resistance of an evening skincare routine. It should be like that gorgeous heavy duvet that envelopes you on a cold winter's evening (but for your face). The cream should be soothing, relaxing and feel like it is working hard whilst you snooze! I was lucky enough to have the LookFantastic Beauty calendar last year, and the night cream I'm using is from that collection. The Comfort Zone Renight Cream is currently loving my skin. It contains Goji berry, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and macadamia oil. The smell is beautiful, and the cream is easily absorbed so beautifully into my face and neck. I love the packaging as well, it's funky and modern and I've been impressed by the results. My skin gets a treat every evening, and I wake up with very soft skin. I don't use lots of this product, just under half a teaspoon I would say. It does go a long way and overall I will definitely consider buying it after I finish this 30ml version. It is a little pricey but I certainly think it packs a punch in the night cream arena. 

Self-tanning drops

It must be spring heading into the summer months as my fake tan products are being resurrected! I was recommended the Bondisands Pure self-tanning drops by a friend who is very particular about their facial products. If you are looking to find a natural glow that is easy to configure into your skincare this is it! By just adding two or three drops into your moisturiser and applying as normal, a tanning effect will happen in a couple of days. That's how long it took for me anyway. One thing I will admit is that I had a bit of dryness on my face at the start of using these, but this is now cleared up so it could have been anything (especially at my age). Do wash your hands after using the drops as they can give transfer onto the palms and that's not the best look really. Overall, I think this is a great easy to use fake tan option for the face, definitely try it leading up to the summer!

There you have it, from toning through to self-tan, here is my current routine as it stands. I am using some great products that don't have to cost the earth and enjoying some lovely results. I am, however, a huge advocate of an inside out philosophy. I always recommend drinking lots of water, eating well and exercising as these all contribute to a healthy mind and body. What products are you using or if you have used any of my products, what did you think?

Why not follow me on my Instagram page @claritybeautymc where I share lots of bits and bobs from beauty and skincare to positive vibes.  

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Products I use... Part 1 - Cleansing PM

Well hello! It's March 14th and it's my first free Monday in a long while. A contract has come to an end with a client, so I'm having a little bit of time to catch my breath before embarking on my next contract. And what better way to spend it than musing about my favourite beauty bits. The candle is lit, the words are flowing and I hope you enjoy it. 

I wanted to write a post today about skincare and in particular, my product choices and routine. For me, there is nothing better than cleaning your face using your favourite products. It is like the end of the working day and the start of my evening. As I have gotten older, my routine has evolved, as my skin has changed and needs more TLC! There are also A LOT of conflicting views on the best skincare routine, to double cleanse or not, to use foaming products or not, to use oil-based products or not, and it goes on. Bearing this in mind, I am just sharing my routine and my opinion which works for me. 

So let's dive straight in. I was, up until about a year ago, just washing my face once in the evening, using the Elemis Pro-Collagen Energising Marine Cleanser. By all accounts I was happy, but then I read a wonderful new book, Skincare by Caroline Hirons. Caroline discussed the method of cleansing called double cleansing, something (I cannot believe I didn't know about). A few YouTube videos later and I was sold on this new cleansing ritual! Now it's time to find out what I use and what are the results.

I have no problem admitting that the thought of using an oil-based cleansing product filled me with dread! I envisioned breakouts and shiny skin, OMG it was going to be a disaster. Well, thankfully my first experience with a facial cleansing oil was just lovely. It was the Marks & Spencer Ultimate Cleanse Micellar Cleansing oil, very gentle, effective and smelled beautiful. After this, I decided to branch out and try a different brand, come on down Super Facialist Skin Renew Cleansing Oil! Currently, I am finishing my first bottle, whilst the second is already purchased and waiting to be used. It just works. It removes all makeup, sunscreen and tough mascara, whilst leaving the skin soft and supple with no dryness. The smell is so nice, soft citrus, and not overpowering in my opinion, although there are some that think it is. 

If you are new to using oils, it can feel a little odd to apply them to dry skin, but once you have massaged the oil into your skin (the best part) it transforms into a milky texture when in contact with water. I also soak a cleansing cloth in warm water to wipe the excess oil and grime off my skin. In my experience, even doing this doesn't leave skin feeling tight or strained. I use the Magnitone ones as they are super soft and wash very well. 

This is where the double cleanse comes in. Once you have used the first cleansing product, you follow up with an additional cleanser to complete the routine. I use the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser for normal to dry skin, which has not failed me yet! I pump some product into my palm and rub it into my hands. I then rub it into my face and massage it in. Use a warm cloth to wipe off the cleanser to finish. I will be transparent and say that sometimes I get a slight stinging sensation on my face using this, but I have never had a breakout or bad reaction and once I have used the warm cloth to wipe my face again, it is fine. It is designed to work in harmony with the skin and not to disturb the natural protective barrier.

These are the products that I use religiously every day to keep my skin clear and happy. I will not change my first cleansing product but I might swap to a different second cleanse, any suggestions? It's worth noting that I use a face polisher once a week. It was one that I got in my LookFantasic calendar called Omorovicza Budapest Refining Facial Polisher. It is a very expensive product and thankfully, a little does go a long way. The texture of the product is fine granules which is Hungarian Moor Mud, rich in magnesium and calcium. I only use it once a week, however, it can be used two to three times if needed.  

As with everything in life, there are ups and downs with my skin. Having a consistent routine and using high quality products does help to keep things in check. I hope you have enjoyed reading my post, and please do get in touch with your comments or questions, it would be great to hear from you.

Don't forget to follow my Instagram page @claritybeautymc for little updates and pictures from my world!


See you soon, Ally x

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