DERMALOGICA CHARCOAL RESCUE MASQUE

Hello peeps. Charcoal face masques have been very popular recently so when offered the opportunity to review one for you gorgeous people I jumped at the chance.

DERMALOGICA CHARCOAL RESCUE MASQUE

Said to instantly detoxify and brighten all skin conditions this masque contains charcoal, volcanic ash, sea silt, bamboo and sulphur to give skin a healthy, vibrant and balanced glow. The idea is to draw out impurities, refine pores, calm redness, improve skin texture and smoothness while addressing skin ageing, dullness, breakouts and sensitivity.

Application is simple enough. After cleansing I applied this generously to my face and neck while avoiding the eye area. You can leave it on for between 7-10 mins. I left it on for 10. It goes a little stiff, but nothing drastic. My chin and other areas of my face started to feel a bit prickly and uncomfortable, but I persevered and waited until the time was up. Then I lightly massaged with very wet hands to enhance exfoliation. I couldn't quite remove all of the product easily with just my hands as my skin still felt a bit gritty so I did what I usually do and used a face cloth with water to speed up the process. I then rinsed went over my skin with a face wipe to ensure all the product was gone and applied moisturiser.

So am I now a charcoal face masque convert?

I am sad to say with this particular product I am not swayed. I love Dermalogica as a skincare brand, but this product was definitely not for me. It just did not feel comfortable sitting on my skin. It was like little pin pricks probably where I had impurities being drawn out. I didn't have a drastic reaction to the product or anything, but my skin felt like it did not appreciate the masque at all. It was like my skin had been zapped of moisture and although I am sure impurities may have been drawn out I did not see any obvious improvement in my skin.

Because of my experience using this product I can not recommend it unfortunately. I think sensitive and fragile skin types should be especially careful if considering using this masque.

Please leave details of your charcoal face masque experiences below along with recommendations.

Love to you all

Vicky xx

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Melvita Nectar Bright Brightening Exfoliation Masque

Hi lovelies. Have you been having a great weekend? I caught up with my Mum on Friday and have been at home for the rest of the weekend. It seems like I only left work a few hours ago. Oh well lets enjoy today before most of us have to go back to the grind tomorrow.

Today's post is focused on this fabulous 2 in 1 masque and exfoliation product to help you relax and unwind. This is the Melvita Nectar Bright Brightening Exfoliation Masque.

Application:

So how does it work? You apply this product to dry, clean skin 2-3 times per week. I use it twice a week as I find that's enough for me. After showering using my face wash I cleanse my skin. I then apply a generous layer of this product to my face and neck, avoiding the eye area. You can leave it on for 5-10 mins. I always leave it for 10mins to get the maximum benefit. It feels like impurities are being drawn from my pores very delicately as the product kind of feels like it is sweating. That sounds really gross I know, but I don't mean that it heats up like some masques do. It's like a cold sweat that is very subtle. Once the 10mins is up I massage the microbeads into my skin and rinse off with water and a flannel.

Results:

My skin feels plumped and refreshed after use with a brighter more even tone. I love that it is a 2 in 1 product that only takes 10mins to work at most. The scent is very natural and almost oaty. I have really enjoyed using this product and will continue to do so.

The best price I found for this product is £27.00 for 75ml from feelunique.com

Thanks to Neville McCarthy for sending this to me for free to test and review.

Is this 2 in 1 product from Melvita something that appeals to you? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Love to you all

Vicky xx

January 2013 GlossyBox: Hello 2013! Detox

Hey you Beautifully Addicted lovelies. I hope you are all well and somewhere warm while the snow is falling (if you are in the UK). My January GlossyBox arrived this week and so I thought I should let you in on my first impressions of the products. This box is designed to help you detox after all the recent festivities.

Left To Right:

Elemis Fresh Skin Skin Glow Facial Exfoliator, £12.00 for 100ml

With deep pore cleansing action your skin will appear brighter and more radiant and is left feeling soft and smooth. This product has been developed to accompany you from your teens to mid-twenties to help prevent premature ageing.

Massage into damp skin, paying particular attention to areas of congestion (nose, chin, forehead). Avoid the eye area. Suitable for use 1-2 weekly.

I use a facial exfoliator twice a week usually. I noticed this product first in the box as I love the colour of it. The cherry scent is very subtle. I am going to be 35 next week so the fact that I am out of the age range that this product is designed for makes me wonder why it was put in my box? I can't remember if my age is on my GlossyBox profile? I am still looking forward to trying this out though.

Jason Lips Bee Healthier, £1.99 for 4.6g

Organic Aloe Vera Gel helps heal, soothe and protect chapped lips while Shea Butter and Sweet Almond Oil moisturize. Leaves lips tingly and soft with peppermint Oil. The Jason brand means 'healer' in Greek.

Apply to lips to replenish moisture, reapply as needed.

OMG I love the smell of this as it's soooooooooooo peppermint. The twist up part of the tube is at the top which confused me at first. It feels smooth on my lips, but the surface is a little hard. I am hoping that once I have used it a few times it will soften more.

Duck Island Limited Body Lotion, 2 x 250ml for £24.95

Pelicans have lived on Duck Island since 1664 when King Charles II received a gift of pelicans from the Russian Ambassador; a tradition which still continues to this day. A rich and exotic, zesty combination of Mandarin & Bergamot to help both relax and stimulate the senses. Duck Island toiletries are also Paraben and Mineral Oil free.

Apply sparingly to skin shortly after a shower or bath. Massage into skin in a circular motion for maximum absorption and retention of this wonderful and zesty fragrance.

I like the way the product looks. The cream feels nice. The scent is zesty, but not at all overpowering.

Left To Right:

Monu Aromatic Mask, £24.95 for 100ml

On application this mask will help to renew and invigorate the skin. It contains Beeswax and Coconut oil to soften, nourish and hydrate the skin. This skin is left clear, boosted and radiant looking.

Use once or twice a week after cleansing and toning the skin. Apply to the face and neck with fingertips or a brush and leave on for 10-15 minutes. Remove with warm water using sponges or cotton wool. Tone and apply appropriate day cream.

This has a clay like appearance and the scent is relaxing yet uplifting. I am looking forward to trying out this warming facial mask.

Paul Mitchell Super Strong Daily Shampoo, £11.50 for 300ml

Paul Mitchell Super Strong Daily Shampoo is designed to help strengthen and repair hair that has been damaged by chemical, environmental or thermal abuse. The exclusive, powerful Super Strong Complex helps rebuild the hair’s internal structure leaving a natural feel and intensified shine. The unique Super Strong Complex contains Hydrolyzed Vegetable Proteins that penetrate the cortex and help to moisturize from within whilst helping to lubricate and reinforce the cuticle. Panthenol also helps provide long lasting moisturization, thicken the hair and provide shine.

Apply a small amount (about the size of a 10 pence piece) into your hands and rub together. Massage into the hair. Rinse thoroughly. Suitable for colour-treated hair.

Not much to say about this other than the scent is very subtle.

And last, but by no means least is this GlossyBox eye mask. I think it was such a cute idea to include this. I have only tried one eye mask before that was badly made because it dug into my eyes, but I will definitely give this a go.



So that's it my loves. Overall I think this is a really nice box and I like the detox idea behind it. I'm not fussed about hair products and would have preferred a different type of product to replace it though.



For more information on the UK GlossyBox click here and for the US GlossyBox click here.



Which products did you receive in your detox GlossyBox? Are you pleased with them so far? Let me know in the comments below.




Love to you all

September 2012 GlossyBox: Illustrated By Maggie Li

Hi Everyone, I hope you are all doing great. Today I have the products from my September 2012 GlossyBox to show you. This limited edition box has been designed by London-based up-and-coming illustrator Maggie Li.

Lady Gaga Fame Black Fluid Fragrance, £25.00 for 30ml, £32.00 for 50ml & £61.00 for 100ml

Inspired by the artist’s statement “If you don’t have any shadows, you’re not standing in the light".  First of its kind, the black-to-clear perfume is an innovation in fluid technology. 

I was really excited to see this fragrance in my GlossyBox. Some may say Lady Gaga is weird, odd or too out there, but I find her intriguing. This smells very seductive as I expected, but very wearable. It comes across as dark, warm and sexy. I only found a hint of black when spraying mine that went clear.

Left: Rodial Glamoxy Snake Serum, £29.00 for 10 x 1ml

Gives a mild freeze-like effect supporting the reduction of visible facial contractions. Liposomes work to fill lines instantly and a ground-breaking oxygen carrier boosts glow and radiance for fresher looking skin with a 3D plumping effect. 

I will give this a try, but I am a bit worried about the freeze-like effect as I don't want to look like I've had plastic surgery. This is so expensive at £125 for 50ml, but it you like it you might think it's worth it.

Right: Rodial 5 Minute Facial, £10.95 for 10 x 1ml

The 5 minute Facial is a lifting and decongesting mask that targets age spots and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines by stimulating the skin’s natural collagen. 

I hardly ever use face masks because I just forget to. I will try these out.

Left: Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream, £20 for 15ml

For soothing tired eyes, smoothing away dark shadows and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

I have already reviewed this product in my July 2012 Empties post here. 

Right: Olay Regenerist Wrinkle Relaxing Complex, £29.99 for 50ml

This advanced optical micro-filler blend helps eliminate shadowing and reflection so the appearance of lines and wrinkles is significantly diminished - in an instant.

I will give this a try. I'm always up for trying out new skin care.

L'Oreal Professional Mythic Oil Milk

Conditioning for fine to normal hair.

I like the bottle this comes in. It looks classy and expensive. My bottle says for all hair types, but I thought this was aimed at fine to normal hair?

Left To Right: L'Oreal Shampoo & Conditioner

NEW Mythic Oil Shampoo: refreshing cleansing experience, leaves hair feeling tamed, manageable and looking shiny.

NEW Mythic Oil Conditioner: creamy texture nourishes the hair to leave it feeling silky smooth and soft to the touch.

These sachets also say for all hair types. For information on all of these L'Oreal Mythic Oil products please check out this link. £15.95 for 125 ml.

So that's it my loves. I think this is a good box. It is a shame that I have the Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream as I have already tried it. 

For more information on the UK GlossyBox click here and for the US GlossyBox click here.

Have you received a September GlossyBox? If so, were you impressed by the products inside?

Love to you all

 

November Boudoir Privé Box

Hi there you Beauts. I thought I would show you the products I received in my November Boudoir Privé box so here goes.

 

Left To Right: DeadSea Spa Magik Silky Smooth Body Lotion, Link :), Korres Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturiser SPF 6, Link :), Rahua Voluminous Shampoo, Link :), Rahua Voluminous Conditioner, Link :)

DeadSea Spa Magik Silky Smooth Body Lotion - £7.70

The Information:

A creamy, silky, non-greasy body lotion with UVB protection to leave your body deeply hydrated and nourished. Silky Smooth Body Lotion helps maintain moisture level of the skin, improves skin elasticity and deeply moisturises, leaving skin feeling soft and supple. Ideal as a cooling after-sun agent.

• Easily absorbed
• Calms and soothes
• Helps prevent dryness
• Improves skin texture

Application:

Apply Silky Smooth Body Lotion daily using gentle massage movements after a bath or shower.

This smells nice and feels smooth. I found this at Holland & Barrett for £4.00, Link :)

Korres Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturiser SPF 6

 

The Information:

Wild Rose oil is a natural source of vitamin C, which demonstrates significant repairing activity to fine lines and skin colour disorders. The extract of the desert plant Imperata cylindrica ensures 24-hour moisturising, by continually regulating the cellular water equillibrium. Thanks to it's anti-oxidant capacity, the combination of Grape seed and phytic acid helps maintain youthful skin.

 

Application:

Apply to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. I found this on Amazon for £17.39, Link :)

This feels okay on swatching. Although this is wild rose I could not smell a scent to it. I like that it's SPF 6. I am not sure about it's claims to keep you moisturised for 24 hours. Can a moisturiser really do this? I would like to know why it suggests avoiding the eye area on application. If you know please tell me.

Rahua Voluminous Shampoo

The Information:

Cleanses to create body and bounce without the drying effects found in other volumizing lines and is safe for color-treated hair. Rich with organic and 100% natural ingredients. Begin the day with aromatheraputic lavender and eucalyptus to calm and relax the senses. Lemongrass and Green tea create body, volume and bounce by balancing and removing excess oils from the hair shaft, without compromising the integrity of the hair. Citric juices break down oils extending time between washes. Ungurahua oil is rich in Omega-9 and helps to restore, heal, moisturize and strengthen hair follicles and shaft, resulting in stronger, healthier hair. Jojoba adds moisturizing properties and nourishment to the hair. Lavender and eucalyptus provide an aromatheraputic component allowing you to relax and enjoy the moment!

Rahua Voluminous Conditioner

 

The Information:

Protects while creating body and bounce — and safe for color-treated hair. Rich with organic and 100% natural ingredients - allows hair to achieve volume and vitality. Lemongrass and Green tea create body, volume and bounce by balancing and removing excess oils from the hair shaft, without compromising the integrity of the hair. Ungurahua oil is rich in Omega-9 and helps to restore, heal, moisturize and strengthen hair follicles and shaft, resulting in stronger, healthier hair. Jojoba adds moisturizing properties and nourishment to the hair. Lavender and eucalyptus provide an aromatheraputic component allowing you to relax and enjoy the moment!

*Rahua Voluminous Conditioner is a double duty hair beautifier, use when styling to add control and prevent frizz.

I received two sachets of the shampoo and two sachets of the conditioner. They came in the little bag shown in the photo which is handy for me to put some jewellery in or something for a Xmas present when I'm wrapping. I found the shampoo on Amazon for £20.00, Link :) and the conditioner on Amazon for £22.00, Link :)

Left To Right: Vinies Luminous Skin Mask (X2), Link :) & StudioMakeup Rich Hydration Lipstick, Link :)

Vinies Luminous Skin Mask (X2)

The Information:

Vinies Luminous Skin Mask combines gentle exfoliants and natural skin brighteners with complexion enhancing toners and moisturizers for a mask that helps moisturize and even skin tone; enhance your complexion; and keep your skin glowing throughout the day. It will refresh your skin like a kiss from the golden sun on your cheeks. Suitable for all skin types and contains no chemicals or bleaching agents. We use Ayurveda’s finest ingredients such as Licorice Root Extract, Tamarind, Brahmi, Orange Fruit Extract, Bearberry Leaf Extract, Magnolia Extract, Mint Leaf Extract, Primrose Flower Extract, Lemon Balm Leaf Extract, Millefoil Flower Extract, Indian Sandalwood Oil, Indian Narcissus Oil and Indian Rose Oil. 

I have to say this product looks and smells horrid. I would describe it as curry paste in both look and smell. I have to be honest I'm not sure I will use this as I really don't want to have this smell on my face. There are two jars of this which makes me feel a bit like these are a filler in this box. Kind of products to get rid of. I'm not sold on the idea of 'refresh your skin like a kiss from the golden sun on your cheeks'. I have not tried it so I can not say how it works though.

StudioMakeup Rich Hydration Lipstick

The Information:

Creamy, hydrating formula with a rich color payoff. Contains anti-aging and moisturizing ingredients.

I did not notice a name of the shade on this lipstick, but I think it is Shimmering Sands. I wasn't too sure about this shade before I swatched it. I thought it might make me look a little bit 80's or even corpse like. When I swatched it however it is actually quite a nice bronze, rose-gold shade that I think could be wearable.

 Swatch Of StudioMakeup Rich Hydration Lipstick

This product has unusual packaging as the lid has a kind of pressure pop-up lid. It's very hard to explain, but it doesn't click shut so I wouldn't feel to confident leaving this in my handbag or make-up bag in case I ended up with lipstick everywhere. There is no scent to this lipstick.

So overall I am going to try most of these products although the shampoo and conditioner I may give to my Mum. The Vinies Luminous Skin Masks I may give a go, but I'm not looking forward to using them if I do. It's not my most favourite Boudoir Privé box, but there are some usable products.

Here is a link to the Boudoir Privé website if you want more information, Link :). Please note that Boudoir Privé is joining hands with JolieBox! JolieBox is the leading beauty box subscription service in France. This means that the boxes will now be an elegant and sophisticated black shoe-box style with the JolieBox logo emblazoned on the top. Boudoir Privé will now be known as JolieBox UK and so their Facebook and Twitter names will change and their website will undergo a new design. JolieBox UK will have a more ‘editorial focus’ and so overtime you can expect to see more content on their website, blog and Youtube channel - bringing you the latest beauty news, reviews and profiles on their brands. The first JolieBox will arrive mid-December. Please see the JolieBox website for more information, Link :)

What products did you receive in your November Boudoir Privé box? Were you happy with them? Will you be sticking with this box when it becomes JolieBox? Are you thinking of signing up if you haven't already?

Love to you all

October GlossyBox/NOTD

Hello you Beauties. Today I want to show you what products I received in my October GlossyBox with a NOTD thrown in. The name of this month's box is 'Six Pack' as this is their 6th box. So here we go.

 Left to Right: Dermalogica Age Smart MultiVitamin Thermafoliant, Dermalogica Age Smart Renewal Lip Complex (with beauty bag) & Dermalogica Age Smart MultiVitamin Power Recover Masque

Dermalogica Age Smart MultiVitamin Thermafoliant

The information:

A powerful thermal skin polisher that combines physical and chemical exfoliants to refine skin texture and enhance penetration of age-fighting actives into skin, while advanced technology ingredients condition and treat the skin. Contains no artificial fragrance or color. 

£40.50 for 75ml. Link here :)

I am excited to try this as I have never tried any Dermalogica products, but this seems so expensive for a skin polisher.

Dermalogica Age Smart Renewal Lip Complex

The information:

A daily lip treatment that restores delicate tissue, minimizes contour lines and helps prevent the signs of aging. Contains no artificial fragrance or color. 

£22.50 for 1.75ml. Link here :) 

Again I am excited to try because it's a Dermalogica product, but this is so expensive. I do suffer from cracking, peeling and sore lips though so maybe it will be my miracle product?

Dermalogica Age Smart MultiVitamin Power Recovery Masque

The information:

A powerful masque of concentrated antioxidant vitamins to help skin recover from damage while enhancing barrier properties and promoting healthy tissue regeneration. Contains no artificial fragrance or color. 

£33.00 for 70ml. Link here :)

I don't really give myself any face masque treatments so this will be a treat. Still very expensive, but I will see if I love or hate it.

I could not find the beauty bag on the website so I'm not sure if they are available to buy?

Leighton Denny Expert Nails Colour & Care in the shade Baby Doll

Leighton Denny Expert Nails Colour & Care in the shade Baby Doll

The information:

Pink, cream and perfect. Oh baby, baby! This pink is the perfect shade for a feminine, girly finish. Smooth and sensational, it flows over the nails with a creamy finish. For a day to night or party twist, try a layer of Striptease over the top for nails that go from creamy to dreamy.

in the press ......

Elle magazine "Leighton Denny nail colour BABY DOLL is a more eye catching alternative to nude, but makes nails look equally polished."

£11.00 for 12ml. Link here :)

This nail polish applied really nicely. I would describe it more as a nail paint. It reminds me a bit of one of my Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars. Cha Cha I think. I really like the colour. I think it's a very wearable pink/peach almost salmon shade. I have never tried Leighton Denny nail polishes before and I am pleasantly surprised. £11.00 is quite expensive, but if you don't buy nail polishes all the time it might be worth it.

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner in Moray

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner in Moray

The information:

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner. These highly pigmented, waterproof eye liners glide on to deliver intense, vibrant colour with staying power. These easy to apply eye liners have it all: long lasting, waterproof, shimmer intense shades to make eyes stand out, vibrant colours and self sharpening propel pencil.

£13.00 for this eyeliner.

When I swatched this it glided on very smoothly. I would describe this as an olive brown shade with gold flecks. I'm glad that I got this shade as I don't have anything like it. I have never tried Stila products either so it's nice to branch out by trying another brand. I could not get this eyeliner to twist up any more which if you can sharpen it must do. If anyone knows what I'm doing wrong please let me know.

Robert Piquet Eau de Parfums in Left to Right: Fracas, Visa & Calypso (bag included)

Fracas

The information:

Once the signature fragrance of the French elite, Fracas has grown to become one of the most coveted fragrances in the world by those seeking a scent of a glamorous, bygone era. Classic femininity and modern sensibility collide within Fracas’ lush white floral fragrance.

• Top notes: seductive tuberose, jasmine, jonquil and gardenia
• Middle notes: Bulgarian rose, orange flower and fragile white flowers
• Base notes: sandalwood, vetiver and musk

 £65.00 for 50ml/£95.00 for 100ml.

To be honest I didn't like this. To me it smells old fashioned and cheap.

Visa

The information:

Over 60 years after Robert Piguet’s Visa made its debut, the classic oriental fragrance was re-launched and rebalanced to merge modern styles with its timeless glamour. 

• Top notes: white vineyard peach, pear, violet leaves, Italian bergamot and yellow mandarin essences
• Middle notes: ylang ylang essence, rose, immortelle and orange flower absolutes
• Base notes: Indonesian patchouli, sandalwood, vetiver, moss, vanilla beans, benzoin and leathery accord

£65.00 for 50ml/£95.00 for 100ml.

 

I thought this smelt sickly and again cheap.

Calypso

The information:

The captivating myth of Calypso exudes romance, seduction and power. The fragrance Calypso de Robert Piguet captures the mystery and allure of the eponymous nymph in dazzling sophistication with its reintroduction. Bewitching and romantic, Calypso is a mesmerizing mix of fiery and lush floral facets. Once again Robert Piguet Parfums turned to perfumer Aurelien Guichard to reintroduce this beloved classic. 

 

• Top notes: geranium and mandarin
• Middle notes: Bulgarian rose, orris butter and rose centifolia
• Base notes: patchouli, amber and suede 

£65.00 for 50ml/£95.00 for 100ml.

 

This scent did not appeal to me either. Cheap smelling too.

Here is a link to all of the women's scents.

Overall I am really pleased to be trying products from brands that I have not tried before such as Dermalogica, Leighton Denny and Stila. It will be nice to pamper with the Dermalogica products. I really love the nail colour and the way it applies. I also like that the eyeliner is not a usual black shade and it seems good quality. My only disappointment with this box is the perfumes. A really great box this month.

If you are interested in signing up to GlossyBox or just want more information then check out the website here. They now also have a refer a friend programme meaning that you receive 200 GlossyDots for every person that signs up on your recommendation which you can use towards a free box for yourself.

What products did you receive this month? Were you happy with them? Are you thinking of signing up?

Love to you all