Skincare Routine- Week 1 Update

Hi Lovelies,

Last Sunday you may have seen my first skincare routine post- week 0. I set myself a new routine, and I wanted to see what the results were like after the first week. I wasn't expecting miracles, but that's the amount of time it tends to take for me to know if my skin loves/hates a product!

Firstly, I'd like to give myself a massive pat on the back because I have actually stuck to it. More than that, I like my new routine! I actually enjoy taking my make up off now, and I can hear my skin sigh with relief when I treat it to the new products.
The only difference to my original routine is the addition of Skinetica, I'm sure you've all seen plenty about the product- but I really am a massive fan of it. I started using it a few months ago, and I only stopped because I had ran out and forgotten to order some more. I finally ordered some, and they arrived on Wednesday, so I've been applying it once in the morning (before moisturising) and once at night (after applying all of my products.) As always, this has really calmed down my blemishes without irritating the rest of my skin.

My skin is still far from perfect, but after it's allergy reaction fiasco, I'm so happy with the results of these products. They've really calmed it down and helped bring it back to something that resembles health. The previous dryness of my skin has completely calmed down, and it's not at all sensitive or sore anymore.
I'm also getting into the habit of cleaning my brushes more frequently- because if I'm trying to improve every other aspect of my skincare regime, I may as well include those too!

Would you like to see an individual review of the products I've been using? Let me know!!

- K
x

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Skincare Routine- Week 0

Hi Lovelies!

This is a first for me, but I thought I'd make a post on skincare routines. This has a bit of a twist to it though, as this is a new routine for me and I'll be updating over the next couple of weeks to let you know how I'm getting on with it.
There's a couple of reasons for this; I recently had a really bad reaction to a blemish cream called Quinoderm, I was fine with it for a couple of days and then my entire face became red, burnt, horribly dry and it's still recovering from this. I even have a small patch on my cheek where I think it's literally left a burnt patch.
The reason for my trying of this new cream was just to a recent break out and I found myself flitting between different products in an attempt to try and calm it down. As both of these attempts failed abysmally, I'm setting myself up with a strict routine containing products I'm pretty confident I won't react badly to.

I often feel like I'm fighting with a never-ending battle with my skin (it doesn't seem to realise that I'm no longer 13) and I refuse to believe that only high-end brands can work effectively; so all of these products are affordable, high street brands!

If you're curious about my skin type, here's a quick run down;
I have incredibly sensitive skin (allergic to most things,) prone to acne (particularly in the chin area,) open pores and currently my skin is still very dry from the recent reaction- it's usually normal/combination.

Morning Routine

I will be using these products every morning; cleansing, moisturising and then applying 'Perfect' Blur. These products aren't particularly new to me, but I'll be using them in a different way. 

Simple Kind To Skin Vital Vitamin Foaming Cleanser

I've been using this for a while now, and I know that as a rule of thumb, Simple products are inoffensive towards my skin. I like this simply because it feels like it really is cleaning my skin without leaving it dry or tight. 

Ayuuri Moisturising Indian Rose Face Cream

This has been my go-to moisturiser for such a long time, it's incredibly soothing although it's not the greatest at actually moisturising. I'm simply sticking with this because my skin doesn't react badly to this; and my only other moisturiser of choice (Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream) is a bit too pricey for me to afford at the moment. I usually use this every morning and night, but for now I'll be sticking with using it every morning before applying the 'Perfect Blur' cream.

Garnier 5 Second Perfect Blur Primer

This is a fairly new addition to my make up routine, and though I'm still undecided as to how effective the 'perfect blur' aspect is, I love how light weight and softening this is. It's the perfect base for my concealer and foundation.

Night Time Routine

These products are all new to me, so this really is where the test begins. I'll admit this, and you can all tell me off, I'm awful when it comes to taking off my make-up. I do remove it every night, but I'm ashamed to say it is through the use of face wipes; which is blogging has taught me anything, it's the biggest no-no in the book. Well, I'm ready to change my ways. This is where I'm hoping to see improvement. I'll be using these products every night, and no face wipes will be allowed (apart from the removal of stubborn mascara!) 

Botanics All Bright Gentle Cleansing Cream

This is the product that will be guiding me into the world of NO FACE WIPES. I hope it doesn't disappoint. I didn't look into reviews for this, which is quite rare for me, but the packaging called out to me. I was drawn to the 'brightening' aspect of this as I've been feeling really run-down recently and I think this is starting to show in my overall complexion. 

Botanics All Bright Soothing Eye Make Up Remover 

This one speaks for itself, I'm not usually a fan of using lotions to remove my eye make up as it just seems to create more mess (/takes more time, and I'm lazy.) This might change my ways! As above, the brightening aspect appeals to me because I'm not too fond of the ghoul look I've been sporting recently.

Boots Traditional Glycerin and Rosewater

I'll be honest, I was a sucker for the bottle and 'traditional' aspect of it, as there's likely to be loads of chemicals involved. The fact that it also acts as a toner and moisturiser appeals to the laziness in me! Also, it smells divine!

Weekly Routine

These products aren't new to my collection, however I'll be more structured in my use of them.

I'll be using the exfoliator mid-week (wednesday evening) and the face mask at the end of the week (sunday evening.)

Clearasil Rapid Action Scrub

The back of this bottle says to use this every morning and night, but to me (and for my skin type) this seems way over the top and is likely to only damage my skin. I know 'faster is better' is their tag line, but I've only ever found disasters when trying to find a quick fix to a blemish. I'll simply be using this to keep my pores clear.

Simple Kind To Skin deep cleansing Face Mask

I'll be using this at the end of each week just as nice treat for my skin. It doesn't do anything miraculous for me, but it really helps soothe my skin; and that's really all I ask for in life.  

That concludes my introduction to the skin post!

Please do let me know if this is something that interests you, or if you've done a similar post yourself!

I'll update this next Sunday (in 7 days) unless something miraculous/horrendous happens.

-K

x

It's a miracle!

So, as you may have seen in a previous entry of mine; I am cursed with sensitive, acne prone skin.
There is every chance I may be getting over excited here, but I believe I have found something that not only doesn't leave me with a swollen red face (achievement!) but something that in fact...is helping.

I've only been using these products for about 3 days, but after the first use I could see a difference! My skin is already looking so much healthier, a lot less red, and a hell of a lot less dry (which is generally my main problem...it's silly how many people mistake red patches for acne and then attack it with acidic facial products.)

I present to you, my miracle products:


Cleanser:

'Ultraband' from Lush
This definitely calms down my skin. It's full of soothing products such a honey, rose water and almond oil.
I'm pretty sure you could use it to remove your make up, but I prefer to use baby wipes before hand, leaving the cleanser to focus on really getting into my pores and giving them a good ol' clean ;)

Toner

Again, this is from Lush.
I'm particularly loving this as I can spritz it on my face, which is pure heaven considering we've been having some kind of insane heatwave. It's ultra refreshing, and it smells of Lavender which is one of my favourite scents and has been since I was a kid (my great grandma had a lavender bush outside of bungalow, so it feels like I'm shoving my face in that...without the prickliness!)

"Dry, sensitive or mature skins will find the rose water is calming and reduces redness, whilst lavender water will soften the skin and balance sebum production. A gentle tonic for everyday use that will help hydrate the skin without causing it to overreact. "

That pretty much sums it up...don't be fooled by the 'mature' comment, I'm 19 and this is perfect for my skin.

Lastly,

Moisturiser 

Surprise, Lush
This is particularly good for use at night time, as it's quite a thick product so might take a while to sink in if you're planning on using it before applying make up.
This has a really lovely smell, and is definitely packed with moisture! At first I wasn't too sure about it, but you really do only need to use a little bit as it spreads well.

Once a week, I also use Catastrophe Cosmetic Face Mask. I've been using it for about 2 months now, and I've mentioned it in a previous entry, but this really is a nice treat for your face!!

I cleanse, tone and moisturise first thing in the morning and before I go to bed at night. 

I may cut down to once a day, but we'll see how it works! 

Before, I've always been a little wary about using so many products as usually one item is enough to send my skin crazy. I'm so glad I took a leap of faith to try these out, but I definitely think it's the fact that it works so well because of the natural ingredients. 

These are simply the products that I find are working well for me, I have incredibly awkward (pale, sensitive, acne prone, very dry) skin. It's been so hard to find something that actually works to moisturise and tackle acne whilst not giving me an allergic reaction.

I decided to give the above products a try because of the natural ingredients found within them. For example, for me I know I have to avoid Tea tree oil, but I saw no reason why Rose water and Honey would do any harm. 

If your skin isn't the same as mine, but you still want to try something with natural ingredients, just have a look around to see what natural ingredients would work well for you. Lush is particularly good for stating how the ingredients work, but it wouldn't hurt to double check that what they're saying is correct. 

I hope this has been of some use to you; let me know what products work for your skin. 

Share your skin routine just so the rest of us can get some tips :) 

-K 

Lush.

I've always tended to avoid Lush, despite my friends insisting that I turn into a fellow 'Lushie' and despite the huge temptation that is caused by the idea of 'almost every product is Vegan.'
But, I never have the time to pamper myself and I never have spare money.

However, since my friend bagged a job in Lush, I have fallen to peer pressure. Sad, but true.
I'm not a 'review'-ing type of person, but as I am someone who is always poor yet loves expensive, earth friendly products; I figured I'd make an exception for the few products I have tried!!

Before I start, I will state that this only the reaction on MY skin. That really is something to bare in mind, as I have very very pale and sensitive skin. And I am allergic to most products and have been known to hide for days after my face has swollen up and turned the colour of a lobster. (True story.)
I will also state, so far, NONE of the products I have tried have caused this. Instant win for me.

The Comforter

£3.99 

Described as a 'fruity bubbly bar.' 

Basically, you break a bit off and crumble it under hot water. It turns your bath into a lovely pink bubble bath! 

I LOVE this product, it is probably my favourite smell out of all of the bath products I've tested/used. I wouldn't say it was particularly fruity, I can't put my finger on the exact smell. But it definitely is comforting (hence the name?) and I love using this product in my bath. I end up feeling a lot more relaxed, and it's just fun to use!! It seems to make the water feel 'softer,' and therefore your skin feels soft too!!

It's a fair size too, so I tend to get about 10 uses out of it. Pretty good I think!! 

And, this product is Vegan friendly. 

Two thumbs up for 'The Comforter.' :D 

Herbalism

£5.95

"Purifying and exfoliating herbal cleansing roll wash. Best used on oily and problem skin."
This product is a facial toner. It comes in a small black tub as a solid product, and you mix it with water to make it into a sort of paste before slapping it onto your face. (Not literally, that would hurt.)
The smell leaves a lot to be desired, and I personally thing it smells a bit like Hemp. But you get used to it and begin to strangely like it. It's also quite fun to use, although a little time consuming!
The first time I used this, the first thing I thought was 'oooh my skin is soooft!'
However, as stated before I have very sensitive skin. Not helped by the fact that I tend to suffer with pretty bad acne. (apparently my skin is allergic to air.) I would have thought that considering all of the natural products, I would have been okay. Apparently not. It's too harsh for my skin :( After 3 weeks I've had to stop using it. I started off using it daily, before changing to every 2/3 days to see if 'overusing' was a problem!
So, I have just given the rest of this to my Mum so I can see if it's good on her skin or not. I'm a bit sad, because I really wanted to have found a product that worked well on me :(
Alas, no this does not.

I imagine it would be pretty good for someone with average skin, as it does leave your skin feeling fresh and clean- always a bonus!!
For me, however, it was a waste of money and has resulted in my skin being far worse than it was to begin with. Silly sensitive skin!

This is also suitable for Vegans :)

Rockstar
£3.25

Possibly the best bar of soap, ever.
I don't own this, but my friend always has it at her house and I get excited every time I use it.
It.smells.DELICIOUS. Honestly, I with I could eat it.
...I miss this soap.
It is THAT good.
Oh, and hey, SUITABLE FOR VEGANS.
Perfection.
<3

Catastrophe Cosmetic
£5.50

Facemask :) Keep refrigerated and take it out every time you fancy giving your face a treat. Simples. 

I only bought this a few days ago, so I've only used it twice.

My skin reacts terribly to pretty much every face mask I've ever tried (yes, a face mask was to blame for the lobster looking incident!)

This has a rather faint, yet simple smell to it and it looks like it should be healthy. Both good factors to possess. 

As soon as I put this on my face, I instantly felt...refreshed. My skin instantly felt smooth and as I was putting it on I couldn't help but feel weirded out at how lovely this face mask felt. 

You leave this on for 10 minutes, and it dries off a bit so you get the funny 'cant.move.mouth' experience. I, personally, think a face mask that dries is the best kind. 

After I washed this off, both times, my skin looked so much less red and inflamed. 

I had used another face mask in between (I shall write about that next!) which had left my face in a horribly painful state , so the effect of this face mask was incredible!!

I would recommend this to anyone, whether you suffer with bad skin or not, I used this product on my Mum too and she agreed on the refreshed feeling!! I've already had 3 uses out of the pot and I think I have at least another 4 left. 

Cosmetic Warrior 

£5.50 

Another face mask here! 

I wish I could say nice things about this face mask, I really do. But I struggle.

Trying to ignore the fact that it left my skin very red and inflamed, I just didn't like it. It didn't give me the same 'Oooh I love this' feeling that I had with the previous face mask. And all you can smell is Tea Tree.

Now, I am allergic to Tea Tree. Well, I've had a bad reaction to it once so I figured I could give this a go because the other time might have been 'just a one off thing.' Apparently not. Me and tea tree are just never meant to be, hence the red and inflamed skin I was left with afterwards.

This is supposed to be for problem skin, however I tend to find that most people with problem skin tend to also have sensitive skin...in which case, tea tree oil is not the product for you. I imagine it's pretty good for people who get a spot every now and again, but if you really suffer with it I'd recommend the previous face mask far more over this! Don't for a minute kid yourself into believing that the tea tree will burn the spots off your face yet leave the rest of it intact, I made that mistake and I was left in a fair bit of pain :( 

Volcano Foot Mask 

£5.50 

This weirdy, snazzy product is a foot mask and scrub. You cover your feet in it, and then shove them in a carrier bag for 10 minutes, during which your feet begin to feel as though they are being set on fire. After 10 minutes, you then rub the (now dried) product to rub the dry skin off before washing it off in a nice, much needed bowl of cold water. 

I was pretty disappointed in this product. The smell is pretty nasty, too. So there's no compensation there :( 

I've used it twice, and my Mum has also used it. She said it made her feet feel nice and soft, but I'm sure there has been next to no impact on my feet. 

I'd recommend you skip past this product, and look for a better way to pamper your feet. 

(Sorry Lush!!!) 

I hope this has been of some use and very slightly informative!! 

If not, sorry for wasting your life... ;)

-K