Lash lash, baby, lash lash, Current Mascaras!

I've been quite good in the past 12 months about changing mascaras every few months.  I am prone to eye problems so try to be vigilant about stuff like that.
I also randomly sanitise my eye products with ethanol.
But I digress,
Current favourite mascaras!

I've been playing around with a newer one, a stashed one, and a random purchase that was my reward for surviving a particularly tough week at work.
All of them have little rubber bristles - I did not realise that at all until I took photos.  But I have mentioned before that its my favourite brush type.

First up - Essence Plump no Clump (I think it's now discontinued?)
This is a nice natural looking mascara (by my standards).  A light coating that says "hey I have lashes and they are pretty" without being too dramatic.  And sometimes thats what you want from a mascara.  Just a little icing on the cake. The brush is a monster and I think I would use it more if it had a smaller brush.  The product is a really nice consistency and the brush doesn't get too much on it, so only minimal wipeoff needed.

Maybelline Lash Sensational
My new fav!  I was late to bandwagon for this nabbed one during the last Priceline 40% sale.  I have fallen in love.  So much in love that I've already bought a replacement from Chemist Warehouse.  Oh this just works so well.  I think it works better than last years favourite from Essence.  And you know it will be in a sale sooner rather than later so no fear of having to buy it full price.  With my allergy eyes, I don't want to pay heaps for something.  It is a wet formulation, but not a runny wet like Rimmel.  This has a heavier gel like consistency and builds nicely, but you do need to take off a lot of product when you take the brush out.  The little tiny combs on one side a great for getting mascara on the base of the lashes.

Revlon - (The one with the midget brush) Ultimate All-In-One
Ok.  I did not expect the brush to be SO DAMN TINY.  But it works.  I think I'll like it more as the formula dries a bit.  Same performance as the Essence one above, so in terms of saving money, I would repurchase the Essence mascara over this one (if it was still around).  It is a bit fiddly with the midget brush to get the lashes, more time and effort compared to the Lash Sensational.  So I'm a little "meh" on this one. I have much fear of stabbing my eyeball with this midget brush.

What's in your current mascara rotation?

Routine Update - Part 1, Morning Routine

1 year Blogiversary. Yay, go team!

A year ago my skin was in shambles.  Today I'm on Imuran and actually had a Dermatologist appointment yesterday. Let me know if you want to know more about Imuran - I do mention it a fair bit.  The Imuran is for eczema treatment.

Way back in November of 2015 I did a long post on what my AM/PM routine is for skin care.  At that stage I was still early in the days of my treatment with Imuran and on a low dosage, combined with Prednisolone.  I've been on Imuran now for nearly 6mths and am at a higher dose.
Imuran has helped immensely with the improvement of my skin and thus my routine has changed - I dont need the 10 or 11 or 12 steps I used to do. My routine has become shorter and lighter.

(I feel the need to explain that I am on medication to help with my skin so you don't think my improvements have been due to JUST skincare.#imuranlifestyle)

So Part One - Morning Routine!

I don't spend a long time on my morning routine.  Pretty much I grab my basket of goodies, my cup of coffee and watch the morning news for about 20mins, this gives the product time to sink in and be rady for the sunscreen layer later on.  Some things are AB, some are Western. I tend to follow the AB routine of layering products but have been switching item in and out.

1. Wipe down with micellar water.  Currently finishing off a Garnier micellar water.  I have lined up next the Simple miceller water (it has niacinamide in, main reason why I bought it).  I avoid a heavy cleanse in the morning because of my dry skin, I find that the micellar waters to a good job for my skin type.

2. Toner - I am using the Rosette Ceramides Lotion as my new toner, as I have just used up the Sukin Hydrating Mist Toner - rosewater, chamomile and aloe.  But I will buy more of the Sukin Toner in the next Priceline sale - this is very refreshing on hot days.  During Feb I kept it in my work bag as a spray for during the day at work.  The Ceramide lotion is ok so far.

3. Serum - I've started using POND'S Collagen Serum (from this post).  The texture is slick and a little goes a long way - 3 drops is actually enough.  I have moved the Mizon to night only to give the POND'S a whirl.  I mentioned in my old routine that I was also using the DermaVeen Serum.  That was utter crap.  Irritated my skin and did not help at all.  So I'm using it on my legs to finish it off.  I also have been using extra Hydraluron Indeed Labs if I get a bit flakey.

4. Eye Cream - I have finished my QV Eye cream and am now using POND'S dual eyecream (can't remember where I picked this up - I was rummaging through my skincare stash for a new eyecream and found it.  So started using it.  Nice stuff).  I have the L'Oreal Revitalift eyecream lined up next.

5. Light moisturiser - either the SkinFood Lettuce and Cucumber Emulsion or the Mizon Collagen Emulsion.  The Lettuce and Cucumber is still going strong.  The bottle seems to never end!

6. Heavy moisturiser - Nivea Visage Pure and Natural Moisturising Day Creme (haul in this post).  I like this a lot.  Its quite rich and soothing. OR  EgoSilic15 cream - this is a barrier cream with dimethicone in.  Specifically for eczema use.  I use this everywhere as well as my face

7. Suncreen - Hamilton Face (from this post, it has become my favourite sunscreen)

I usually get up to stage 6 then get dressed, and then apply suncreen before my makeup.

I have found from having a large "wardrobe" of skincare items I can change it up as my skin needs change.  If I'm really dry I will put more steps in, as the weather changes I can put different items in.  I've learnt over the past year that it is important to adapt your routine to your lifestyle and the weather.  I used to have just one moisturiser and micellar water, thats all I used.  There are days when all I do is use micellar water, serum and a moisturiser.  But there are days when I do 11 steps - I do these now somewhat more as a "spa day" type of treat.

But I am determined to finish of that SkinFood Emulsion!

Do you have a skincare "wardrobe"?  How do you change your routine?

Changing my locks (of hair)

Hair Dye.
Scary stuff. (But pretty colours)
Even scarier when you have allergies.
(to be honest thought, lots of things are scary with allergies)

My natural colour is dark blonde - that nothing shade that sits between golden blonde and light brown. I didn't actually start playing around with my hair colour until university.
My first foray was using a gradual bleaching foam, I used it very sparingly and avoided getting in onto my hands (disposable gloves) and scalp.
I really did not enjoy being a blonde.  It lasted maybe a few months after I got to the colour I wanted.  Also high upkeep to maintain the roots.

So I allowed the blonde to grow out and went back to my normal colouring.

About 10 years ago, when I first started teaching I decided I wanted to go brown.  But I was terrified of using a chemical hair dye because of my allergies.  And I still am terrified of using a chemical hair dye.  Not going near that stuff!

So whats an allergy queen to do? Turn to henna.   But Rosie you say, henna makes your hair red!

I used Lush's CaCa bricks, which come in several tones from brown to black.
Initially I used 100% CaCa Brun, which uses a mix of indigo and henna to create a brown tone.
It was a lovely brown, but still I wanted more!

Now the thing with henna is it actually penetrates the hair follicles and so the natural highlights and tones of your hair is mimicked.  So it looks natural.  But the hairs get saturated and you cant just keep dying your hair, so it should be at minimum every 6 weeks or so.  I dye my hair every term holidays- every 3 months.  The regrowth only shows in the last fortnight or so because of how well it takes the hair tones on.

This shows the natural tones in my hair, it's not a flat colouration.

However because of this henna is a serious commitment.  You cant bleach your hair for at least 6 months after colouring your hair (preferably 12 months) because SCIENCE will happen and you may fry your hair off, or end up with lurid orange (as in, orange the fruit) coloured hair.  Damaged to hell hair.  So if you get sick of the henna color you have to let it grow out and cut off any ends that have henna so you are left with virgin hair.  You also have to be careful over-dyeing henna with artificial dyes - again, wait 3 to 6 months.  I have tried doing a reverse ombre with the Noir henna, but it never takes and I think this may be from the henna particles from previous layers filling the follicle.

You know how you have an image of yourself in your head that you really want to be?
I wanted to be a red-head.  Life goals.  Seriously.

I gradually mixed the CaCa Brun with CaCa Marron, then 100% CaCa Marron (chestnut red/brown), mixed CaCa Marron with CaCa Rouge and now for the past 6 years I have been using 100% CaCa Rogue.  In sunlight is it LURID!  Not so shocking in artificial lighting or cloudy days, when it looks more auburn.
I have application down to 10 minutes.  Also because my hair gets repeated layerings of the henna I only use 1 square of the 6 in a brick and essentially focus the colour on my roots.  When my hair gets longer it may require 1.5.  With the full colour changes I would use 2 full blocks to do my waist length hair - my hair is now 6 inches below my shoulders.  The Lush North America forum has a veritable mine of information on how to tweak the blocks for different hair types and colours. 

Even though my application is fast, it needs to sit on the fair for at least 2 hours (some people leave it overnight, I haven't needed to).  To wash it our, I soak it with conditioner to loosen it up, rinse with warm water, wash properly with shampoo, rinse and repeat until all of the grains are out, so that you don't stain your towels or pillows. 

When people first meet me, they think my red hair is natural.  And they keep believing it until someone opens their big mouth (not me!).

The only downside is that I think the rosemary in the henna irritates my scalp, so for 2 or so days afterwards my scalp's itchy.  But 3 days every 3 months I can cope with.  I've not had swollen eyelids or any other major allergic flareups.

Ingredients:Red Henna (Lawsonia inermis), Cocoa Butter (Theobroma cacao), Fresh Organic Lemon Juice (Citrus limonum), Powdered Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), Clove Bud Oil (Eugenia caryopyllus), *Citral (*Citral), *Eugenol (*Eugenol), *Geraniol (*Geraniol), *Limonene (*Limonene), *Linalool (*Linalool), Perfume (Perfume)   (from the LushAus website).  

I am wondering about trying pure henna so I can eliminate all of the items that aren't really helpful for my allergies but at the moment I have a stash of Henna blocks to use up.

What have your experiences with dying hair using henna?

Shampoo and sneaky allergens

Shampoo was a difficult area for me to find something that worked and I didn't react to.  I used to be a huge fan of Lush Shampoos, in particular Daddy-O (cos its purple and smells of violets).  But the reality is that they have far too many allergens in that I am sensitive to.  When I started the strict RPAH Elimination Allergy Diet I had to change many aspects of my routine that you wouldn't think of.  It took my 4 weeks to figure out that my toothpaste was the cause of the rash around my mouth. I spent a fair chunk of time and money buying hair products and I thought I would talk about the items I keep repurchasing because they are safe for me.

I should say first that I am very lucky with my hair.  Its not excessively dry - I do heat-style it frequently during term time when teaching, which is why I look for "moisture replenishing" products, I can get away without conditioning if I'm not styling.  It takes a few days for me to get greasy.  My hair is dead straight but I dont have issue with static and it grows quickly.  So I dont look for major help with my haircare products (unlike my skin). Therefore I tend to keep things simple. 

I tried the no-shampoo routine with Bicarb and Vinegar (cept I had to use Citric acid because of the amines in vinegar).  Yeah, no. Didn't care for it too much.  I worked through massively greasy bit and my scalp had adjusted, but I didn't find the "wow" factor that many people rave about.  And when it came time to re-dye my hair, I needed a shampoo and conditioner to get the henna out and couldn't be bothered going through all that again.

The shampoo and conditioner I am currently using is Tresemme Moisture Rich Shampoo and Conditioner (light blue label below). 

Why do the new bottle crumple?  Why?!

Shampoo Ingredients : Aqua (Water), Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Ammonium Chloride, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Tocopheryl Acetate, HelianthusAnnuus (Sunflower) Extract, Corylus Avellana (Hazel) Leaf Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Extract, FoeniculumVulgare (Fennel) Seed Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl, Hydrolyzed WheatProtein, Dicaprylyl Ether, Lauryl Alcohol, Quaternium-22 Polyquaternium-39, Polyquaternium-10 Panthenol, Propylene Glycol, ButyleneGlycol, Citric Acid, Hexylene Glycol, Triethanolamine Tetrasodium EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone Methylisothiazolinone,Butylphenyl Methyl Propional Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool Parfum (Fragrance)

Conditioner Ingredients : Aqua (Water, Eau), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane, AsparticAcid, Quaternium-18, Parfum (Fragrance), Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Isostearamidopropyl Ethyldimonium Ethosulfate, Linalool, HexylCinnamal, Limonene, Panthenol, Geraniol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, PEG-9, Hydroxycitronellal, Citronellol, Amyl Cinnamal,Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Methylisothiazolinone, Butylene Glycol,Foeniculum Vulgare (Fennel) Seed Extract, Propylene Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Epilobium AngustifoliumFlower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (SweetAlmond) Seed Extract, Corylus Avellana (Hazel) Leaf Extract

The ingredient list isn't short, but there are some good things in there such as the camellia sinesis oil which is well known in AB for its excellent hair conditioning abilities.  Both have some keratin in as well, but I'm not too sure how much of a true benefit they provide at the levels they sit at.  on the plus side the scent is very mild and you cant detect it the next day apart from smelling "clean" so I dont get a headache from it.

Once a week I use the clarifying Tresemme Deep Cleansing Shampoo (green label above).  This helps greatly with product build up, this was an issue I had because I am very fond of styling my hair. 

Ingredients:
Water (Aqua, Eau), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Ammonium Chloride, Fragrance (Parfum), Disodium EDTA,Dicaprylyl Ether, Lauryl Alcohol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Geraniol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citric Acid, Methylchloroisothiazolinone,Propylene Glycol, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Green 5 (CI 61570), Methylisothiazolinone, Ascorbic Acid,Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Triethanolamine,Hexylene Glycol

I was concerned about the Grapefruit and Lemon extract but they are very low on the list and as I use this once a week I think that reduces the risk of allergen build up.  I have not noticed an increase in hives or such after using this product.
I tend to focus the conditioner on the lower 10 cms of my hair. I tend to use 2 full bottles of shampoo to one bottle of conditioner - no matter the brand.  You can see that the Moisture Shampoo is the new bottle and the conditioner is still the old bottle!

If I don't condition I will use Schwartzkopf Extra Care 6 Miracles Oil Essence.  
Cyclomethicone, Dimethiconol, Caryocar Brasiliense Fruit Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, GardeniaTahitensis Flower Extract, Cocos Nucifera Oil, Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Oil, Octocrylene, Parfum, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool,Limonene, Coumarin.

This is the second hair oil I have tried. The first one was Aldi's Lacura Argan Oil.  Didn't really like that - was too heavy for normal wear so I tend to use that as a hair treatment.  To be honest - I only bought this was because it was 50% off at Woolworths.  But I do like it and have found it to be light enough to use frequently, I can also use it as longer treatment if I apply more.  Also no irritation from this one.

Schwartzkopf can be a bit hit-and-miss for me.  I cant use their hair-sprays, but I haven't been able to pinpoint what it the trigger for me, so I just avoid all of them.  I tend to use Tresemme hairsprays or VO5 (blue cans - never ever the pink cans) hairsprays.  

What I trialled along the way was Schwartzkopf Extra Care Nutri-Protect with Rose Oil, but this provided too much moisture for my hair and my hair would look sad and lank the very next day, but did not irritate my skin.  I wash my hair every 2 to 3 days, and have a collection of dry shampoo's that I rotate and use when the urge strikes.  Typically I go for Klorane but have also started branching out into Batiste.  One important thing I have to do is check to see what the main powder - Corn Starch (Maize) or Rice (Oryza Sativa).  I avoid any dry shampoo that has corn starch.  Made that mistake once.

Overall I tend to get for Tresemme products because I've not had a bad reaction to any of them.  that for me is the main selling point for buying hair products.
What do you look for when buying hair products?

Updated Face Routine!! (Epic Post)

Somewhat Longer now....But my skin loves it!

Warning - Epic Post.

My basket of face-stuff....

Basket is from Daiso (AUS$2.80) 

- chose this because its plastic and can be washed if there's a spillage

Everything.Just,Fits.

I like having it all together because when I do my routine I can carry it to my lounge room and watch tv/multitask while I wait for products to sink it.

1. Cleanse with Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser Lotion (nearly used up I bought it in mid-March and its been used daily so lasts for ages, but I will be trying other cream cleansers after this finishes)

2. Wipe down with Garnier Micellar Water just to make sure its all gone (this is my only morning cleanser as well - I'm onto my 3rd bottle of this Micellar Water, I haven't tried other brands yet)

3. Tone with Sukin Hydrating Mist Toner (used to use Nivea Visage Natural Cleansing Toner but I think it has too much alcohol for my skin currently)

4. Holika Holika 3 Seconds Starter - Collagen (not sure if it works, but will use it up anyway - half way through.
5. Some form of Hyaluronic Acid - using leftover serum from a mask from the other night, usually Indeed Labs Serum

6. Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule (love yooooou sooo much) Review here

7. A new serum from DermaVeen - Intense Moisturising Facial Serum ($17 from Chemist Warehouse), Contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Colloidial Oatmeal - this is very new I've only used it for a few days. *

8. Eye Cream - Ego QV Face Revitalising Eye Cream OR Mizon Collagen Power Firming Eye Cream (this is great for the dry skin under my eyes and on the bridge of my nose...).  The Mizon is more gel like.  It was the first eye cream that I really got hooked on.

9. Mizon Collagen Power Lifting Emulsion - this is a new player in town for me and so far I'm liking it but I've only used it for a little over two weeks

10. SkinFood Lettuce and Cucumber Emulsion  (review here).  Not sure if I will repurchase as I am planning on trialling new products.

11. Face Shop Rice Ceramide Moisture Emulsion - I now love the old lady perfume scent of it and will repurchase this, looking into other items in the line as well.  Ceramides seem to be hard to source in non AB products unless you want to pay a fortune (Elizabeth Arden).

12 (sometimes) It's Skin Pure Moisture Gel.  I go off and on with this depending on how my skin feels.  Not planning on repurchaisng this item.

13. Nivea Creme in the blue tub, this is my Bae.  I have a serious stockpile of this because I use it for face and body.  With my current flareup this is the only thing my skin on my body can cope with and it drinks it up (#desertskinlifestyle).  I can go through a 200ml tub in two weeks when my skin is very bad.

Sometimes I put a mask after the Snail Ampoule - snails, rice, aloe, hyaluronic acid are my preferred flavours.  If my face is really bad I will Dermeeze (occlusive) over the Nivea - at least an hour before bed so its not sooooo greasy  - Dermeeze is an ointment formulated for severe psoriasis and eczema.  I have some sleeping masks but I tend to just go for the Dermeeze because its automatic.
In the morning I will wait 15mins or so before I apply my sunscreen.  I bought 3 new face sunscreens recently and use 1/4tspn (I measure it into an actual measuring spoon to make sure)

If my skin is horrendous I only use the Micellar Water, Toner, Ampoule and Nivea until it calms down.

I did a LOT of research into ingredients because of my allergies.  You will see no Bee products or BHA's in my list!  Both are linked to Salicylic acid which is an absolute no-go for me.

Yes it's a lot of steps.  This is a full routine and I find it very relaxing to have each step and I love the results I get from these steps.  Before this I never had dewy/bouncy skin and this routine really contributes to keeping my skin hydrated.  I have extraneous variables in terms of my immune system that causes issues with my skin which means I do change up my routine in terms of how many steps I will have.  I have to pay attention to my diet and medications and the changes they cause to my skin.

* I've been researching over the past month products that are readily available in Australia (so for me - Priceline, Target, Chemist Warehouse etc) which are similar to AB products in terms of price-point and ingredients.  Some brands are binging out somewhat comparable items, but prices vary.  Some I'm waiting for sales before I buy them to try.

How has your skincare routine evolved?

Priceline 40% Off Skincare (July)

Oh Priceline.
Ooooooh Priceline.
You know the way to my heart.

On the 27/7 and 28/7 Priceline had one of its' pop-up 40% off sales for skincare.  These happen every 6 months or so, and I was in need, dire, dire, need of some items.
As much as I love my AB products there are some items that aren't AB that are Holy Grails in my routines.

I was down to the last scrapings of my last tub of Nivea Creme that I bought randomly a few months ago to supplement my supply.

Rationing. Every. Last. Bit.

Great Wall of Nivea

I do love my Nivea Creme.  I didn't buy enough in the last 40% off in Feb, so hopefully 12 tubs should see me through 6 months.  I use this on my face and on my body.  This is a product that I use everyday, twice a more, more if my skin is ridiculously dry.  If I could only have one skincare product left to use it would be this.

I also collected some of my favourite toner.

This doesn't claim to be for dry skin, but my skin is very fond of it. I'm halfway through my second bottle already so grabbed these.  I had tried a different toner after I finished a bottle of this but my skin was not as happy as before so I had to buy another bottle of this.  The different in dryness is noticeable.  I like to amp this up by mixing in some hyaluronic serum in with it.

Trying some of these Sukin items as they do have good reviews.

The Sensitive Cleansing Lotion seems to be massively popular.  Both times in these sales I've seen people grab handfuls and they always get emptied out early on.

Simple has some items that have a nice short ingredient list that were in travel sizes and thought they would be good to trial.

Simple has seemed a bit hit and miss, so if I can get a sample size or a trial size I would prefer to get that first rather than committing to a full item.

I've been interested in cream cleansers, as I'm searching for something to replace my Avene Extremely Gentle cleanser which is over $30.

This also had a lovely short ingredient list and has worked well so far but it smells of sunscreen and its disconcerting.  The first time I used it I had to double check that I had bought a cleanser....

So the Nivea and Toner were planned purchases and the others were items that caught my eye as I was rampaging through Priceline.  I looked at some of the serums and tried them and such but really balked at the prices.  I have been far too spoilt by RoseRoseShop and their prices.  My shop last Feb in Priceline was quite different to this shop.

What did you get in the Priceline Skincare sale?

Holy Hyaluronic Acid, Batman

Such science

*sparkles*

I.Love.Hyaluronic.Acid.

I didn't get onto the bandwagon until this year, but hot damn, so glad I did!
I have very dry skin - even when its nice and clear I'll still get a tight, sore feeling if I don't moisturise in the morning.  Usually I'll feel uncomfortable by 10am.

I started off with Indeed Labs Hyaluron serum.  I bought one tube when it was 40% off at Priceline to try it properly (full price is $35 from Priceline), when glamaco had it for $15 I snapped up 5 tubes, and wish I bought more).  The serum itself is a clear and odorless gel that spreads quite far.  I usually use a pea sized amount which does my face, neck, decolletage and any leftovers I rub into my hands. This product is designed to be used after toner and before moisturising.  It in itself is not a moisturiser but enhances the ability for moisture to penetrate the upper layers of the skin.

I tend to use this serum in my PM routine, in summer I also use it in my AM routine, but in winter when I'm at work I don't use it in the AM routine.  I found that because the air at work is much drier and the change from a warm classroom to the cold outdoors amplified the drying out effect that can happen when using hyaluronic acid without enough moisture.

Then the obsession began.  I found that the Cetaphil Restoraderm had hyaluronic acid (sodium hylyuronate) in it so that joined my collection.  The Restoraderm is a body lotion and works well in summer.  Also acquired some Mizon ampoule samples to compare to the Indeed Labs.

  

I found at Daiso a hyaluronic acid ampoule which I will experiment with by adding to moisturiser and a hyaluronic acid spray.  I have been using the spray (pump bottle) by alternating it with the Indeed Labs serum and both seem to have the same effectiveness.

I bought some samples of the Hada Labo Hyaluronic Lotion (heavy and light) from Sasa.com and I use that at night on my dry skin on legs and arms, followed up by Nivea Cream and the results have been great.  I think this combo is more effective in winter than the Cetaphil Restoraderm.

I may calculate the cost per ml between the Indeed Labs serum and the Hada Labo heavy lotion because they are both very effective.  However I have to include the shipping cost for both of them because I cant see myself willing to pay the $30 or so at Priceline when I know I can buy it cheaper online and that's including shipping.

I know that all of these serums have different ingredients in them, and I'm not after the product with the most/best sized molecules of hyaluronic acid in them, but I want to compare them all to see what my skin likes best.  Your Mileage May Vary (YMMV), or even Your Moisture May Vary.  Different external factors will also have an influence on how well these perform.  The Indeed Labs serum was excellent in summer, but not so great in winter which I why I'm trialing different types and combinations of products.

Now this is just a topic application of the acid itself, so it only penetrates the very top layers and keeps moisture (essentially water) there as well which is why the skin is hydrated.  This is a highly effective humectant (humectants hold moisture), but you do need a product to then trap that moisture onto your skin which is your moisturiser and an occlusive layer like vaseline or Dermeeze for really dry skin on top of that.  Otherwise the hyaluronic acid can pull the moisture OUT of your skin (which is what happens in winter to me like I mentioned above).

What skincare technology or active ingredient have you become obsessed with?

Snails?! Snails ^_^ Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Ampoule

One of the items I picked up in my first RRS haul was the Mizon Snail Ampoule sample pack.  At first I used it only at night - I test every thing at night so if things go nasty I can re-wash and treat then sleep through the worst of the flare up.  This was the first AB product I fully introduced to my routine.

Full sized bottle (30ml)

Hello darling

Liquid Gold Magic Snail Stuff

I'd tried a snail mask I'd picked up earlier and was VERY impressed by the results I got from the mask and so decided to dip my toe in the sea of snail products.

I've been able to use this on my skin when it's in various stages of irritation.  It helped immensely clear up the most recent reaction.

Ingredients:

Things that do stuff.  SNAILS!!  Also sodium hyaluronate is very high as well as glycerin and pantenol (humectants doing their things).  Copper peptide is interesting because it is shown to help with healing in the skin and is anti-inflammatory.

I used this after my toner which my skin was still damp and was able to use a small amount to cover my face, between 1-2 drops (2 drop is a fullish dropper like below) and pat this onto my skin.  It is a bit "gloopy" and heavier than my Indeed Labs Hyaluron serum, but my skin drinks it all up.  I apply this also before I apply a sheet mask, which seems to help amplify the moisture absorption.

I now have 3 bottles of this precious ampoule and am using it both AM and PM.  It is definitely a game changer for me in terms of improving my skin in terms of "bounce", smoothness, and recovery from flareups. I have noticed that a skin flare up now recovers in a matter of days instead of two weeks.  In my eyes that is simply amazing.  

 I purchased it through RRS for around $14 AUS for a 30ml bottle.  After I had decided to buy the full size, RRS was out of stock for a bit and I was sad.  So when it was back in stock I bought up.  From purchase to receiving the delivery is usually 2 to 2.5 weeks (including weekends), which I am quite happy about.  This is also in the "Free Shipping" category at the moment with RRS which is why I bought multiples - its all about making the most out of your shipping "space" as well.
I have not found an Australian product that does the same for skin at such a price.  Even my Hyaluron serum is normally $30.  And don't forget the Dr LeWinns Diamond serum that is $70 (which does NOT SPARKLE, I was very disappointed when I tested it in Priceline.  No Sparkle.  Oh, didn't really do much either)  So to get something that is budget friendly and works a treat makes me very happy.

Mizon has a range of snail items that I am slowly acquiring.  I have noticed that some brands have "bee and snail" together which are very popular on the AB reddit forum, however I am allergic to bees and would probably need my epi-pen if I tried any of those.

So unless I find something better, I will be sticking (heh) with my Snail Ampoule.  If my skin is happy, then I'm happy.

What has been you skincare game-changer?

Product Review: The Face Shop Aloe Mask

I read somewhere in the past week that sebum decreases in the skin during winter.  Which might partly explain why dry skin flare ups can happen more frequently in winter. Also external factors like heating etc.
I have epic dry skin right now.  It is ridiculous.

Today's mask (which I have just had on my face) is The Face Shop's Real Nature Aloe Mask.
I purchased three of these from RRS in my April haul, this is my second use of this "flavour".  It's a very soothing mask and provides great hydration.
Side note - I'm going to start masking every day I think because of how dry my skin is <sigh>

I took about 14 photos.  Only one worked,  I really need to start taking photos earlier in the day with better light and when I am more awake.  My poor little camera tries it best, I'm just impatient.

Ingredients:Water, glycerin, aloe barbadensis leaf extract, butylene glycol, alcohol denat, betaine, sodium hyaluronate, xanthan gum, hydrogenated lecithin, dimethicone, phaseolus radiatus extract, betula platyphylla japonica bark extract, rumex crispus root extract, carbomer, PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, triethanolamine, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, fragrance

phaseolus radiatus : Mung Bean.  Listed as being good for cooling the skin, helping irritations and removing toxins.  Slightly anti-septic as well.
betula platyphylla japonica bark : Japanese White Birch.  Various studies (1) show that this helps reduce flare-ups of atopic dermatitis (maybe I need a vat of this alone!)
rumex crispus root : Curly Dock (I admit, I read this first as Curly Dork and laughed for a bit - I am in post-exams and post-report exhaustion) Also used to treat skin inflamamtions (like psoriasis and dermatitis)

Again there was around 10 ml of essence left over in the packet.  I'll use that in my routine tomorrow morning.

The scent is mild aloe, very inoffensive.  Soothing, easy to fall asleep with this on.
I left this mask on for 30mins tonight and was just beginning to dry out along the edges, but was still quite damp and I wiped the extra essence on my arms (sharing the love).

Unless I find another Aloe Mask that is better than this one, I will always keep a few of these in my stash.  Lovely times guaranteed!

How do you keep your skin hydrated in winter?

My Must-Haves for Skincare

These products are those that I will always have back-ups of and are my go-to's when I have a flare-up or an allergic reaction.
Some a classics, others are new and recommended from my sisters Dermatologist.  I personally have not been to a Dermatologist, rather I have been to an Immunologist due to my allergies causing the majority of my skin issues.



My first is a classic - Nivea Creme (in the blue tub!).  I have multiple backups of this and will buy several whenever its on special.  But its also a product I would pay full price for if needed.  I have tried other Nivea creams and lotions for the body, but I always return to the Nivea Creme.  This I happily use even on my face - sometimes as a thick mask, or as the final occlusive layer in my PM routine.  I like the fact that it is really thick.  I find thinner lotions can sting.

Ingredients :Water, Mineral Oil, Microcrystalline Wax, Glycerin, Lanolin Alcohol (Eucerit), Paraffin, Panthenol, Magnesium Sulfate, Decyl Oleate, Octyldodecanol, Aluminum Stearates, Citric Acid, Magnesium Stearate, Fragrance.


Next up is something that people who have dry skin and eczema should know - Dermeze.  This is an ointment that is made up of paraffin.  Its not glamorous, but it doesn't irritate and its a fabulous occlusive layer when my skin is really dry and peeling.  A little goes a very long way, and if my skin is dehydrated enough it will just absorb this within an hour.  If I have had an allergic reaction and my skin is covered in hives and looks like it has been burnt - this is what I will use.

Ingredients: Liquid Paraffin, White Soft Paraffin

New on the scene is a product from Cetaphil.  It's their new Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Moisturiser.  This comes recommended from my sisters Dermatologist.    It has Niacinamide and Sodium Hyaluronate.  Niacinamide helps with skin elasticity, the skins barrier, and overall tone/texture of the skin.  Sodium Hyaluronate is a version of Hyaluronic Acid.  This is a humectant and helps to hold moisture in the upper skin layers (I love Hyaluronic Acid - in an upcoming post I'll talk about how I use it in my routine).  I have bought the Body Wash, but haven't tried it as of yet. 

Ingredients: Butyrospermum parkii butter (shea butter), Cyclopentasiloxane (and) dimethiconol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Panthenol, Glycerin, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Cetyl alcohol, Helianthus annuus seed oil (sunflower seed oil), Sorbitol, Pentylene glycol, Caprylyl glycol, Hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine, Niacinamide (vitamin B3), Sodium PCA, Arginine, Sodium hyaluronate, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium polycrylate, Aqua, Tocopheryl acetate,

So these are my key three items for anyone with dry and sensitive skin.  If I had to pick one, I would go for the Nivea Creme.  Its a great multitasker.

Later Days