Beauty Products Used Up in December 2017

Beauty Products Used Up in December 2017

Skin care Cosmetopia Digest   Monday, January 01, 2018

Heigh ho. 2018 is here. It's been a mixed year for me, with the first half being really nice. I got over acne and started scar revision. I got back on YouTube. But then I was laid up with allergies from October, Dad got bitten by a snake, and Gramps's horrible disease (I don't even want to say the c-word) has reared its ugly head again. It makes me weep to think about Gramps.
For 2018, I only wish for good health and happiness for all my loved ones and readers. That's the most important thing.

Scroll down to see the beauty products I used up in December 2017, and for my quick thoughts on each. 

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Best Beauty Products of 2017: Skincare Favourites

Best Beauty Products of 2017: Skincare Favourites

Vitamin C Cosmetopia Digest   Tuesday, December 19, 2017

I spent the major part of the last weekend ruminating over my wardrobe - as everyone, from my Mum and Gran to my friends, keeps telling me, it is boh-ring, old-maidish, and predominantly black. So I went out hunting for new outfits and came home with two - both black.
Mum came to see for herself, and lost it. She has now taken matters into her own hands. Apparently, for her Christmas present for me, she's taking me shopping in the last week of the year (I forsee getting half my hair pulled out in the mad crowds), and will CHOOSE my outfits. I also forsee some rather colourful rows.
She is right, though. From the time I started dressing myself, I've been choosing outfits that actually make me seem older, not younger. My favourite kind is the classic-length shift dress, and I own a few dozen of these in BLACK alone. I can see why she wants to take drastic action, although there is no way I can explain why I gravitate towards the same kind of clothes so much.
Before the chaos due to erupt during the wardrobe-revamping process, let's get this year's Best of Beauty series out of the way. I've started with skincare; stay tuned for makeup posts!

Scroll down for the first in my Best Beauty Products of 2017 series - this one is all about my skincare favourites!

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Beauty Products Used Up in October 2017

Beauty Products Used Up in October 2017

Videos Cosmetopia Digest   Tuesday, October 31, 2017

I've had a nightmarish last few days - while already nursing a foot injury, I woke one fine morning to an acute allergic reaction to the point of severe anaphylaxis. Apart from bad urticaria and joint inflammation, I couldn't move my neck/head at all, and landed in the ER. They pumped me with 'roids and antihistamines, and the former have broken me out, but as my doctors said, it was a question of priorities. I'll have to navigate my skin through bad acne all over again (long-term readers will remember I battled it for the major part of 2016, and am currently undergoing scar revision). Boo!
And, we don't even know exactly what caused the anaphylaxis - they'll do an allergy test after three weeks of no meds and no hives. They suspected a peanut allergy, but it turns out it wasn't one after all. Good. I adore chilli-and-lime peanuts.
Enough whining. Let me show you the beauty products I used up in October 2017, and what I thought about each one.

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Beauty Empties: July 2017

Beauty Empties: July 2017

Toner Cosmetopia Digest   Tuesday, August 01, 2017

July has been a stressy month for me, with too much to do in my schedule. I'm hoping that August will be a lot more relaxed. It's also my Dad's birthday month; I got him a lovely set of gifts, only to misplace the lot, and I've turned my place upside down and cannot find the slightest peep of the package. Nor can I remember where I put it. So I've just bought a backup gift. The first box will turn up now, of course.
Be that as it may, it's time to show you the empties of the month.

Scroll down for a look at the beauty products I used up in July 2017, and for my mini reviews.

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Beauty Products Emptied in June 2017

Beauty Products Emptied in June 2017

Vitamin C Cosmetopia Digest   Monday, June 26, 2017

I'm going to be travelling from the second week of July, so my mid-year makeup haul will be from Selfridges, Boots, Harvey Nicks, and so on. As I have been on a shopping ban for a while, I'm making a rather large list of makeup to get. Recommendations welcome.
But all that is a good month away. Here's what I used up this month - featuring my favourite Vitamin C.

Scroll down for thoughts on the beauty products I used up in June 2017.

Allies Of Skin Bright Future Overnight Facial Now Available

Allies Of Skin Bright Future Overnight Facial Now Available

Skin care Cosmetopia Digest   Wednesday, May 03, 2017

Earlier this year, I told you about Allies of Skin, a Singapore-based skincare brand, whose Overnight Facial Mask has been renewing my sad, acne-ravaged skin steadily. Now, they have a new launch. Call it a new-and-improved version of the Overnight Facial Mask.
Meet the Bright Future Overnight Facial. Jam-packed with skin-goodie ingredients. It contains retinol, AHAs, probiotics, hyaluronic acid, peptides, MSM, niacinamide, fruit extracts, manuka honey... have they left out anything?? This is the one product you need if you haven't been getting enough sleep.

Scroll down for more on the Allies Of Skin Bright Future Overnight Facial.

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February 2017 Beauty Empties

February 2017 Beauty Empties

Treatment Cosmetopia Digest   Friday, March 03, 2017

NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 1.00%. That's the hero of this empties post; it is also the one product I will be repurchasing consistently, for a long time ahead.
The name of the product sounds weird. You'll know what I'm on about as you read my empties post.

Here are the beauty products I used up in February 2017, and my thoughts on each.

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Beauty Products Used Up in December 2016, Link Party

Beauty Products Used Up in December 2016, Link Party

Soap and Glory Cosmetopia Digest   Tuesday, January 03, 2017

Because of all the Holiday fun, I forgot to show you my December empties. 2016 has been one bittersweet ride. Not as bad as my personal annus horribilus, which was 2012, but still among the top three horrible years of my life. I spent eight months on antibiotics. I spent almost five months in HIDING because of cystic acne. I missed my parents' wedding anniversary dinner for the second time ever. I didn't celebrate a bunch of other joyous events.
The bright spots? I spent more time with my grandparents (even THEY flinched at the sight of my face). I learned about and began adhering to a proper skincare regimen. I began learning two new languages and signed up for two other study courses. 
Hopefully 2017 will be a fresh start.
Before that, however, let me show you the trash of the month.

Scroll down for the beauty products I used up in December 2016 and for my thoughts on each.

REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask Review

REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask Review

Vegan Cosmetopia Digest   Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Clean skincare is British beauty brand REN's USP. I haven't come across a single REN product I didn't love, from their eye cream to the ClearCalm Clay Cleanser.
REN products are always free of parabens, sulphates, silicones, PEGs, TEA, DEA, glycols, mineral oil, petrolatum, synthetic fragrance and artificial colours. Nor are they tested on animals.
You must have seen samples of the REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask in some of my empties posts. It is a "potent bio-active peel mask designed to renew the complexion, reduce fine lines and dramatically improve skintone."

Scroll down for more on the REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask. 

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Beauty Products Emptied in October 2016 + Link-up

Beauty Products Emptied in October 2016 + Link-up

Yardley Cosmetopia Digest   Monday, October 31, 2016

In October, my skincare routine has been more regular and diligent than it was in September. I have been going through a multi-step routine for the face every morning and evening, including double cleansing on most evenings, and have moisturised all over twice daily. I've used AHA/BHA acids and Vitamin C almost every day. See here for my 10-step skincare routine.

Scroll down for the beauty products I used up in October 2016, and my quick thoughts on each.

Holiday 2016 Gift Idea: Beauty Expert Radiance Collection

Holiday 2016 Gift Idea: Beauty Expert Radiance Collection

Zelens Cosmetopia Digest   Monday, October 17, 2016

A few days ago, I posted about the Beauty Expert Rose Edition collection here - a set of six full-sized products for an incredibly low price of £50, with products worth £134 - with a saving of £84.
Now, they have a new Radiance Collection worth more than £210, at the same low price of £50. That is insane! This one is meant for anyone who wants radiant, glowing skin, and glossy, healthy hair, and contains high-end brands such as Zelens, Alpha-H, and Gatineau.
For those who haven't heard of Beauty Expert, they are owned by the Hut Group - yes, the same group who owns my favourite LookFantastic. Speaking of which, have you ordered your Advent Calendar from here? Not many days left, and, believe me, you don't want to miss out! Or, get the Molton Brown one here or the Decleor one here, for some general pampering!

Scroll down for the contents of the Beauty Expert Radiance Collection for Holiday 2016.

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Belli Skincare Face Wash, Eye Cream, Hydrator: For Glowing Skin

Belli Skincare Face Wash, Eye Cream, Hydrator: For Glowing Skin

Treatment Cosmetopia Digest   Tuesday, August 02, 2016

A couple of years ago, "glowing" skin meant oily in my book, and I was doing all I could to make my skin as dry as a desert. Harsh treatments; little hydration. A huge protest later, my skin got its message across - the glow comes from within as fresh skin is revealed, is a sign of health as dead cells are cleared away, and can be achieved with active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids, which increase the rate of cell turnover and replacement.
The world of skincare acids can be daunting. One of the gentler AHAs out there is lactic acid, which occurs naturally in our bodies. American brand Belli Skincare incorporate lactic acid in their products.

Scroll down for review of Belli Skincare Facial Wash, Eye Cream and Healthy Glow Hydrator - a harm-free, pregnancy-safe range for glowing skin.

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Pixi Glow Tonic Q&A: Everything You Wanted To Know

Pixi Glow Tonic Q&A: Everything You Wanted To Know

Toner Cosmetopia Digest   Friday, July 01, 2016

When you get through your second 250ml bottle of a product and have four more bottles in stock, I think it goes without saying that said product works beautifully. Pixi Glow Tonic is one of those products I will be repurchasing for a long while.
If my skin was Asterix, Glow Tonic is the magic potion made by the Druid Pix(i). Huge high-five to fellow Asterix-fans out there.
I am not going to be reviewing it. Enough rave posts out there already. This is a Q&A post. Everything you wanted to know about Pixi Glow Tonic.

Scroll down for the lowdown about Pixi Glow Tonic - why you need it and what it does.

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Best Acid Treatment Pads For Acne Prone Skin

Best Acid Treatment Pads For Acne Prone Skin

Treatment Cosmetopia Digest   Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Since the end of last year, I have incorporated acids in my skincare routine, following my dermatologist's advice for a skin infection. I now use Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA) pads in the morning and Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) or combination pads in the evening. Together, they help fade pigmentation, prevent acne, exfoliate, provide a bunch of nutrients to the face and facilitate quicker and deeper absorption of other products. Here are my favourite treatment pads and WHY I love them.

Scroll down to read more about the best acid treatment pads for acne-prone skin. 

When to use acid treatment pads

After cleansing. Before a hydrating mist or moisturising toner such as Thayer's Rose Water (and the rest of your skincare routine). Some of these need to be followed by a splash of water to the face to neutralise. I cut most of my acid pads in half, so they last much longer (with a sterile pair of scissors I keep aside for this).

AHA or Combination Pads:

1. Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Original Formula

HG. If I had to pick just one, it would be this.
What: Two-phase treatment. There is an alpha surface refiner and a beta treatment pad. You get it in individually-packed boxes as well, so you can take 'em travelling without risk of spillage.
How many: 30 pairs.
How much: £59.25. Code LF15 for 15% off. 
How to use: Apply the alpha refiner pad first. Wait for two minutes; apply the beta pad. I use this two nights a week.
Versions: Two Alpha-Beta Peel versions - original formula and extra strength. They also have other pads but we're talking about AB Peels now.
Repurchase: I've bought the Extra Strength version recently; let's see what they are like.
Buy it here.

2. Cane + Austin Retexturing Treatment Pads

As effective as DDG - also formulated by a dermatologist. I adore the packaging.
What: 10% glycolic acid. Also has Vits A, C and E, COQ10 and antioxidants. 
How many: 60 pads.
How much: £34

How to use: Dab away. Cut 'em in half so they last longer. Use sterile scissors. I use this four or so nights a week. Or whenever my skin feels congested.
Versions: An anti-acne version with 5% AHA and 2% BHA; and a 20% glycolic version called Miracle Pads.
Repurchase: Yes! These and Dr Dennis Gross are my favourite glycolic/combo pads. I might buy the Miracle Pads next.  
Buy it here.

3. Skyn Iceland Nordic Skin Peel

What: Lactic acid, white willow bark and glycolic. Seriously soft pads.
How many: 60
How much: £38
Use as the other single-pad formulae listed here.
Repurchase: When there's a GWP or offer across the site.  Incidentally, the Skyn Iceland Discovery kit contains a full-sized jar of 60 of these pads and costs as much as the pads do by themselves. So you get a sample face wash, moisturising lotion, two eye gel pads, and a full-sized eye treatment pen FREE for the price of the pads.
Buy it here.

4. Peter Thomas Roth Unwrinkle Pads

What: A 20% complex of alpha, beta and gamma acids and amino acids, Vits A, C, D, E and F, chamomile and green tea extracts. 
How many: 60
How much: £29
Versions: There's also a Max Complexion Corrector version which has peach bellini fragrance, but it also contains alcohol (denat.) high up on the list. 
Repurchase: Yes, when there's a GWP or offer.
Buy it here.

5. Pixi Glow Pads

What: 20% glycolic, rose water and some SA and lactic. STRONG stuff for me. Slightly smaller circumference for the pads, so I didn't cut these in half.
How many: 60
How much: £24. Code LF15 for 15% off.
Versions: I wish they had a milder version; this was a tad too strong for my skin. 
Repurchase: If I need something this strong.
Buy it here.

6. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

A pad-based form of Pixi Glow Tonic.
What: Mildest mix of glycolic, lactic and hyaluronic. Start here if new to acid or if you've never used acid-based toners. Good to use every day.
How many: 60
How much: £22. Code LF15 for 15% off. Buy now and get an FAB hydrating serum free with two FAB products.
Repurchase: Have progressed to stronger formulae.
Buy it here

BHA pads:

7. Stridex Maximum Strength Pads

Everyday morning treatment
What: 2% salicylic. Feels strong, so maybe build up after using Paula's Choice 2% BHA or a similar milder formulation. 
How many: 90
How much: $6. Yes, 'swhatisaid.
Versions: A regular strength and an aloe version for sensitive skin. I prefer the Max Strength version, though.
Repurchase: Yes. 90 pads is always a good deal.
Buy it here.

8. CosRx One Step Pimple Clear Pads

What: Salicylic, hyaluron, tea tree oil, orange peel. Nice, large-sized pads. Gentler than Stridex but has equally good flattening and preventive effects on acne. 
How many: 70
How much: $26. Code 2758605 for $5 off.
Repurchase: When there's a sale.
Buy it here.

Favourite AHA/Combo Pads: 

Tie between Cane+Austin and Dr Dennis Gross. I suppose being formulated by an MD makes a huge difference!
If you are a beginner, start with FAB, but after your first jar, upgrade to Cane+Austin or Dr Dennis Gross.

Favourite BHA: 

Tough; both perform beautifully. I would say CosRx, but 90 pads makes Stridex much better value for money.

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