Current Evening Skincare Routine

I thought I would share my current evening skincare routine with you today. I have been using this combination of products consistently for about a month, and have seen some really fantastic changes in my skin. I have spoken about a couple of these products previously, and others are fairly new to me. These products have worked so well for me, that I am slightly anxious about changing anything. I cannot recall the last time I felt this way about a group of products, and though I still have many other product and brands loves, (and holy grail products), this combination has made my skin balanced, calm and just generally happy.

As a self confessed skincare junkie, I am always trying new products. I can't help myself really... everything about skincare and skincare products intrigues me. Now that I am on the other side of 40, I am certainly noticing more fine lines, wrinkles and general signs of ageing creeping up on me. Having said that, it really is just a part of life. You cannot stop ageing...time marches on folks, let me tell you. Aside from protecting your skin from the sun, and your genetic predisposition, your skin will eventually show signs of ageing. 

Thankfully for me, along with getting older, comes a little more life experience, a little more gratitude, and a wider, clearer view of what really is important. I have so many stretch marks on my stomach from my four pregnancies, my skin is so stretched and it really doesn't look pleasant at all, but they are my mummy scars. I would not be without them. They tell a story, just like the wrinkles around my eyes and mouth from smiling, and the frown lines between my eyes and on my forehead from thinking, questioning and learning about life. 

However, that being said, I still want my skin to look nice... I still want my skin to be free of acne, and I still care about how my complexion looks, and I want it to look it's best!

It may seem like a lot of products and steps, and it probably is! My evening routine is one of my favourite times of the day. My children are asleep, my husband is happily holding the TV remote, and I can enjoy a nice warm shower and look after my skin without having to talk to anyone...silence is golden folks, I'm here to tell you! As much as I enjoy applying my makeup, I think I might enjoy taking it off even more. I do all of my cleansing steps in the shower. It just works for me that way. I am not suggesting you need to do all of these things either, but I enjoy the process...it makes me happy!

Let's go then!

Yep...it takes a whole bowl!

Cleansing...

Ole Henrikson pure truth melting cleanser  is a beautiful cleanser that I purchased whilst in New York last year. The tub in the picture above is in fact almost empty, and I have just repurchased another. It goes on the skin as a thick, smooth gel, and as you massage it in, it melts into an oil. It is the most beautiful texture, feels beautiful on the skin, and removes all of my makeup, leaving my skin feeling amazing. It has a beautiful citrus scent, which I love, and it has not caused me any irritation. 

I use it as I would a cleansing oil, straight onto dry skin. You can emulsify it with a little water, and it turns into more of a milky consistency, but I prefer not too. I enjoy the slip and texture of the oil on my skin. Once you emulsify it, you loose that slip.
If the thought of using an oil cleanser scares you a little, you need to try this. It leaves absolutely no oily residue on the skin. After a nice massage, I then remove it with a clean face washer/flannel. The trusty face washer is the only skincare 'tool' you will find in my bathroom. I have a huge pile of them, and I use a clean one every day. I have not tried a clarisonic, or any other cleansing devices as yet. I am happy with my flannels so far! I like to spend a few more dollars and get the nice, soft thick ones, as they hold the warmth of the water beautifully.

One pump of Go-To Properly Clean is my second cleanse. I am a fan of the double cleansing method, and it has worked well for my skin for the better part of two years now. Properly Clean is a gentle, lightweight, fluffy mousse cleanser that I love. I have reviewed it in full here. It smells heavenly, feels beautiful, and rinses away perfectly. I am coming to the end of this bottle too, and shall be repurchasing it very soon. Why does all the good stuff run out at the same time!!??

One of the more recent editions to my night time routine has been the Exfoliator from Indeed Labs. Gifted to me for trial purposes, I have indeed been trialling it ( excuse the pun ) and I love it. It follows a similar concept as the much talked about Daily Microfoliant from Dermalogica ( which I have not tried ), in that it dispenses as a powder, that you then mixed with water to create a thick, soft foam. Containing rice bran powder, hyaluronic acid, and some trusty fruit enzymes, this leaves my skin feeling smooth and generally looking clearer and brighter. I tap a small amount into the palm of my hand, mix it really well with a little bit of water for about 10 seconds between my palms until it resembles a soft foam, and then apply it to my face, avoiding the eye area. I don't really massage it in, I just softly move it around my face with my fingertips for about a minute... I prefer to let those lovely fruit enzymes do all the exfoliating. I find it to be very gentle, it rinses away beautifully, and leaves my skin feeling so soft and just lovely. Worthy of note, the price point is certainly a little friendlier than the afore mentioned... you're welcome.

Hydrating...

Antipodes Ananda Antioxidant Rich Gentle Toner is my first layer of hydration after I step out of the shower. This is my second bottle. Definitely a hydrating mist rather than a traditional "toner", I spritz my face like a mad woman, breathe in the beautiful, subtle bulgarian rose scent, and then pressed it into my skin with the palms of my hands. Glorious. I also love the People for Plants hydrating mist, and the Sukin Hydrating Mist if you are looking for a slightly less expensive alternative.

My next step is to move straight onto the eyes, and the cooling metal ball and lightweight serum from the Puretopia Eye Rescue does the trick for me ( love this in the morning as well ). Vitamin E and Shea butter moisturise, whilst peptides and Vitamin C are said to reduce puffiness and brighten the eye area. I apply it along the orbital bone, starting in close to the nose and then out and up to my temple, and then pat it in with my fingertips. The tube is soft and pliable, so you just gently squeeze it to dispense a little of the serum onto the tip of the metal ball. Eye Rescue always makes my under eye area look refreshed and hydrated, without feeling too heavy or greasy. I haven't noticed a huge difference in the discolouration under my eyes ( about 6 weeks of sleep might help ) but my fine lines are certainly less noticeable!

The next lightweight layer is thanks to the Puretopia Essential Facial Serum. It feels amazingly light on the skin considering it consists of skin loving Argan, Rosehip, Seabuckthorn, Cranberry and Blackcurrent oils, along with Glycerin, and Shea butter. This product is a bit of a gem actually. As you can see in the photograph above, the Eye Rescue roller is on the left, and the Essential Facial Serum is on the right. Three small metal roller balls dispense a very light, buildable layer of serum onto your skin. Time can get away from me when I use this! It is just so lovely to roll all over your face! I try to encourage lymphatic drainage by working from the centre of my face outwards, and like to focus on my jaw line, as I am experiencing a bit of congestion around that area. The compact little bottle works  with gravity, so you just need to tip it up to dispense the serum as you go. I just use a very light layer underneath my new favourite treatment serum...

Treating, Protecting and Nourishing...

I first heard about the Olay Regenerist Luminous Daily Treatment serum when Ruth, from A Model Recommends, trialled it for Olay. She had very good things to say about it indeed, and I absolutely trust and value Ruth's opinion on skincare, so I picked it up during a recent sale at my local Priceline pharmacy.

When I was checking the ingredient list in store, I was very excited to see Niacinamide was the second ingredient. Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, hydrates the skin, assists in cell turnover, improves skin elasticity, and helps to reduce hyperpgimentation. I adore this serum, and have definitely noticed that my skin tone is more even and looks brightened and refreshed in the four weeks I have been using it. I also feel that it has contributed to the fading of old acne scaring. Apologies for using this word again, but it is very lightweight, and absorbs quickly and easily into the skin. I have even been using my chemical exfoliants ( AHA's and BHA's ) considerably less often since I started using this serum. I'm absolutely impressed, and would highly recommend it. I haven't even felt the need to repurchase my Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair....now that's saying something folks.

Last, but certainly not least...the final layer...the final frontier...absolutely the last layer I promise... is Go-To Face Hero, one of the most deliciously gorgeous face oils I have ever used. I was lucky enough to have received an email two weeks prior to the official launch date, with an offer to make an early bird purchase....and purchase I did!

I could see a very noticeable difference in my skin after using this for two days! I left a comment for Zoe Foster Blake ( Go-To creator and all round fabulous woman ) on Instagram a month ago, saying that my skin was calm, happy and hydrated, and it has since stayed that way. I have also noticed a reduction in oil production, and almost no breakouts....yep, really! I'm thrilled to bits!

Face Hero contains a blend of 10 beautiful, skin loving oils, including Almond Oil, Jojoba Oil, Macadamia Oil, Brazil Nut Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Buriti Oil, Arnica Oil, Rosehip Oil, Calendula Oil, and Kiwi Seed Oil. 

It has a beautiful, subtle, natural fragrance of Orange Blossom and Rose Gardenia. Not at all strong or overpowering, I can still smell the earthiness of the natural oils underneath. I smooth 4-5 drops over my face and neck, and chest area every night. It has a lovely, velvety consistency which my skin just drinks up. I cannot say enough good things about Face Hero... he truly is a little bit of magic to me!

Phew. You made it to the end...thank you! I'd love to know your favourite skincare products! Are you a skincare addict like me? Do leave a comment below if you would like to, and feel free to ask me any questions you may have and I'll do my best to answer them!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

Disclaimer: Products from Indeed Labs and Puretopia were PR gifts. All other products were purchased/repurchased by me! Cheers, Lou xo

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Antipodes Reincarnation Pure Facial Exfoliator | Review

If you are a regular reader of my blog you will know that I am a big fan of chemical exfoliation, ( if you are a regular reader of my blog, then I am a big fan of you! ).

In fact, I don't think I have used a physical ( or granular ) exfoliant for the better part of 18 months. So when I was recently gifted the Antipodes Reincarnation Pure Facial Exfoliator,  I was slightly hesistant to give it a go. 

In the past, I have found granular scrubs to be less than helpful to my combo/oily/acne prone complexion. I found them to be irritating, increase inflammation, and they would often spread the infection from current blemishes that I was experiencing. Not nice.

However, this product has changed my mind. Antipodes Reincarnation exfoliator is luxurious, nourishing, and very gentle on the skin. As Antipodes say "offer your skin new life"....alrighty then!

The base of kaolin, and apricot and avocado oils house very tiny jojoba beads. You may be able to see the texture in the photograph above, but they are very small. It has lovely dose of antioxidants from carrot seed oil and grapeseed extract, and calendula to calm and soothe redness. The fragrance is subtle and spa-like, with tonka bean, sweet orange and cedarwood blending together beautifully.

After cleansing, whilst my face is still moist, I take a blob about the size of a small grape and smooth it gently over my face. Using my finger tips, with very light pressure, I massage the product over my skin.  I do avoid massaging blemished areas, however I use a very gentle press and roll motion over the areas where I may have blemishes that are not infected and are starting to heal. 

The texture is thick, creamy and luxurious, and rinses away nicely. Because it has an oil base, I follow with a warm/hot flannel just to finish off, and to make sure I have removed all of the product. My skin feels soft, smooth and looks plump and fresh. On with the hydrating mist, serum and moisturiser, and my makeup just glides on. Lovely.

Antipodes recommend Reincarnation Exfoliator for all skin conditions. It's recommended retail price is $42.00 AU. Worth every penny if you ask me. I will certainly be purchasing.

I would probably reach for this around once a week, or whenever the mood takes me. Even though it is very gentle, I avoid using AHA's or BHA's on the same day. I believe that it is recommended to do so, as it can be irritating to the skin. The surest sign for me that my skin is irritated, apart from inflammation, is increased oil production. Two things I try really hard to avoid, so I will heed that advice.

For you Aussie's, Antipodes is available at Priceline Pharmacy where is it currently 20% off!! I can't actually see Reincarnation online, but I have noticed it in-store, so do check your local area. I have also just found it on Myer's website here, and they currently have a gift with purchase as well!! It is also available online at Adore Beauty ,(one of my favourite online beauty stores), and Feel Unique and Beauty Bay both of which offer free worldwide shipping.

If you are interested in reading about Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey mask, I have favourably reviewed it here.

Have you tried Antipodes Reincarnation pure facial exfoliator? Are you a crushed walnut shell lover? (save it for your body). What is your favourite gentle exfoliator? I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to ask questions or leave a comment below!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

Disclaimer: As I mentioned in the body of this post, this product was gifted to me for consideration. This does not affect my thoughts/opinions on this product, I am always honest in my reviews. Do note that what may work for me, may not work for you. I can only share my experience. Cheers xo

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Natural Instinct...A Family Skincare Favourite | Review

I would like to share some lovely, affordable Australian Skincare products with you today. I was honored to be offered the opportunity to try these products, and have put them through their paces ( myself and my children!) to review for you today.

Natural Instinct is an Australian brand which has been providing natural, organic skin and hair care products for the whole family for over a decade. I have reviews of three body products, and 2 facial care products to share with you. I hope you find it helpful! 

I have noticed over the last few years that we, as consumers, want more and more from our products. Skincare companies are rising to the challenge of producing not only a quality product, but where possible using natural and organic ingredients, which have been sourced ethically and responsibly, whilst doing no harm to other living things, and concurrently having the greatest respect and concern for our environment, not only in production, but also in the manufacture of the packaging in which they reside. Whilst not every consumer feels equally as passionate about these factors, there are many companies, both small and large, that are delivering the goods. There are certainly more and more options for those wanting to use natural products, not only for themselves but for their families as well.

Now, whilst I do not place myself exclusively in a strict "Green Beauty Only" category, on my travels through the world of beauty and skincare, I am certainly discovering some lovely brands, with lovely products. And I like them.

If you would like to hear about my thoughts on these next few products...please read on! Go on...you know you want to...

Natural Instinct Cream Cleanser 125ml RRP $9.95 

This is a thick luxurious cream cleanser, full of lovely oils to gently but effectively remove makeup and cleanse the skin. Some of the oils include Safflower Seed Oil,  Calendula Flower Oil, Avocado, Rosehip and Jojoba Oils. Rose Flower water and Witch Hazel extracts are also included, along with the  essential oil blend of Lavender, Lemon and Sage. 

Even though I do have oily/combo skin, I prefer to use a cream, lotion or oil cleanser in my skincare routine in the evening, because I feel that they are more protective, and don't strip the skin of it natural oils. You only need a small amount of this cleanser, this handy tube will last you very nicely. 

I massage the cleanser onto a slightly damp face for about a minute, then remove with a hot flannel/washcloth. If I have been wearing spf, or a lot of makeup I will do a second cleanse ( most days I guess ) This cleanser also works beautifully for me in removing eye makeup, and I am always grateful to find cleansers that can be used on the eyes without irritation. My skin feels soft, comfortable and is clean without feeling tight or dry. I think this cleanser would suit most skin types, particularly normal to dry. If you are prone to acne like me, then just make sure to remove it thoroughly with your warm flannel. If you find it a little too rich, just emulsify a little water with the cleanser to thin it out. It has a very subtle scent only, barely noticeable to me, and I am sure would not be offensive to those who are sensitive to fragrance.

Natural Instinct Gentle toner 125ml RRP $9.95

Refreshing and gentle, this hydrating toner is a pleasure to use. I typically prefer hydrating toners in a spray bottle, and have decanted this into an old empty spray bottle. You could, of course, use it on a cotton pad and sweep over your skin after cleansing, I just like the feeling of misting my face like a mad woman ( I have been known to sometimes go a bit overboard ) after I have cleansed. Gosh it feels nice!

I don't typically rely on toners to remove any residual cleanser, that's the job of my beloved flannel!

This water based, alcohol free toner has Glycerin as its second ingredient, which is going to hold the moisture in your skin ( also known as a humectant ) and also includes Witch Hazel, Rose water and Orange Flower water, all known to soothe and hydrate the skin whilst providing anti-inflammatory benefits. Nice.

Natural Instinct Baby Body Wash 250ml  RRP $7.95

Tried, tested and approved by my children and I, this extra gentle wash is lovely. Now my youngest child is 3 years old, and my eldest is 10 years old, so not exactly in the baby stage anymore, however I still like to use gentle products for their skin, which like mine, is prone to dryness and winter excema. I would definitely recommend this gentle product for babies and young children. When my four were young babies, I would always have an evening ritual consisting of a lovely warm deep bath, a lovely long feed, and then cuddles and bed. I would always have a gentle baby wash on hand, normally with a little bit of lavender in it, which I believed helped not only them to relax, but me as well!

This lovely gentle baby wash contains a calming blend of Lavender, Lemon and Sage essential oils, and like all of the Natural Instinct products, is Sulfate, Paraben, Preservative, Petrochemical and Mineral oil free ( among other exclusions ). It works well in the shower as a body wash, and also makes a lovely, relaxing bubble bath. Thumbs up from The Beauty Vine's offspring! 

Every product in the range has this information on the back, including the FREE FROM section

Natural Instinct Energising Body Wash 500ml RRP $11.95

On arrival to The Beauty Vine HQ, this one went straight into my shower, and will probably be featured soon in an empties post! A sulfate free, gorgeous smelling body wash that still manages to lather nicely ( love my bubbles ) without drying out your skin.

Citrus essential oils are some of my favourite scents. I find they help to clear and refresh my mind, which by the end of the day is barely functioning (which my children and husband will attest to ). I used both Lemon and Lime essential oils in my labour and birth with my fourth ( and last! ) child....they were brilliant for simultaneously clearing and calming the mind.

The Energising kick in this body wash is thanks to a blend of Lemon, Lime, Lemongrass and Geranium essential oils, with a subtle hint of ginger for warmth. Love. And it has a pump. Love that too.

It is also available in a Relaxing formula, which contains a similar blend of oils as the Baby Body wash.

It is next on my list to try...

Natural Instinct Body Lotion 500ml RRP $11.95

This deceivingly lightweight lotion packs a punch in the hydration department. It absorbs quickly and easily, whilst still leaving your skin feeling moisturised and comfortable. You can thank a good hit of Sweet Almond Oil for that, along with Wheatgerm, Avocado, Rosehip oils, and Mango Seed Butter.

Again, the combination of Lavender, Lemon and Sage essential oils provide a lovely calming fragrance.

I like to slather this all over my tired body after my evening shower. A little goes a long way with this lotion as well, and the large size, like the body wash, I think represents good value for money. I have also used this lotion on my children after their bath/shower, more so in winter when their skin can be dry and itchy/irritated... and if I happen to forget and start throwing their PJ's on they will certainly remind me... "Mum!...You didn't put my cream on!" 

You can find the Natural Instinct website Here . You will find a good amount of information about the company, and of course the products, complete with all ingredients listed. Natural Instinct also have a hair care range. You will find an information page about the ingredients they choose to include in their products, with a simple, easy to understand explanation of each ingredient and its' benefits for the skin. 

There are also links to online stockists, as well as information regarding availability in Pharmacies across the country. As the time of publishing this review, I could only find one online stockist who would ship internationally, unfortunately at a rather hefty cost. Hopefully these lovely products will be available internationally soon!

Have you tried any Natural Instinct products? What are some of your favourite skincare and bodycare products and/or brands? I would love to hear from you in the comments below, feel free to say hello anytime!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

As I mentioned in the beginning of this post, these products were sent to me for review. I feel very lucky indeed to be given the opportunity to do so, and will always be honest in my reviews, whether I have purchased the item or it has been gifted. Cheers.

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