Hero Product: Garnier Pure 3 in 1 Wash+Scrub+Mask

 

I mentioned this product in a previous post here and I wanted to go into it a bit more as it’s really a wonderful little product to have in the bathroom cabinet. It’s from the Pure range which is specifically for oily/combination skin types that suffer from clogged pores, shine and blemishes.

I’m not a big fan of supercharged products that claim to do a multitude of things and I feel the same about this one. It’s a wash and a scrub and a mask! As a wash I think it’s too thick and too much hard work and I think as a scrub the pumice in it is a bit aggravating on me. May work for others, but for me? too gritty. As a mask however, is when it really comes into its own.

It’s a wonderful general use mask for what I call affordable day-to-day maintenance. Those weeks were you haven’t got a lot on and don’t need to bring the big boys out of the cupboard, but you still want to keep skin under control. From the mask perspective it contains zinc which is one of natures skin purifier and works to keep skin free from impurities and blemishes. It also contains mineral enriched white clay which is a fantastic oil absorber and helps to mattify shine. Of the 57 testers, 91% agreed that this was the greatest benefit. I agree!

The one thing I must warn about is the tingle. I was taken aback the first time I used it as I wasn’t expecting such a zing! It contains some salicylic acid  which I think is the contributory factor. The tingle does dissipate after a few minutes and I personally don’t mind it, but be aware just in case it’s not something you’re into.

Sold in all the usual high street outlets and supermarkets around the £5 price point, it gives good results and won’t break the bank.

Ask Dija: How often should I exfoliate, steam and mask?

There is not a one size fits all answer as everyone has a different skin type with differing concerns. So I followed the question with my own question, as you do.

How would you describe your skin type and what age group do you fall into?

Answer: Combination skin, early 20’s.

Combination skin tends to have an oily T zone – forehead, nose and chin – and dry/normal areas on the cheeks. The pores tend to be larger on the T zone which produce more oil and shine on the surface of the skin. Early 20’s would fall into the young skin bracket, so we’d expect supple, plump and firm skin.

In addition to your CTM routine I would recommend the following.

Steam

A steam will warm up your face to open pores and dislodge dry skin and you can do this on a daily basis whilst cleansing with a flannel. Simply run hot water over the flannel (as hot as your hand can stand without scalding, we don’t want any burns!), wring and lay on your face. (make sure its not too hot, again I worry about scalding!) This is a an extremely gentle steaming method, but highly effective. Leave super-duper steams to your facialist who by the way you should be seeing on a monthly basis. If you aren’t, start now because all skin types benefits from a deep clean!

Exfoliate

You need to exfoliation to remove dead skin cells that have been dislodged through your gentle steam and are just hanging on. Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant is perfect for combination skin and all time favourite. Its rice based enzyme scrub so its gentle enough to use everyday. Gritty exfoliators are a big no-no as they’ll only vex your skin.

Masks

When it comes to masks,  I don’t subscribe to a one size fits all mantra. I truly believe with combination skin you have to tackle the different areas in isolation and there’s nothing strange or extravagant about using two different types of masks.

On the T zone a clay based mask is best. This will soak up oil straight up out of the pores to purify and help mattify the skin. Depending on how oily your T zone is every 2 – 3 days should suffice. One of the best for general day-to-day maintenance is Garnier Pure 3 in 1 Wash-Scrub-Mask which contains kaolin – the oil absorber.

On dry cheeks or other generally dry areas, you want something that’s going to moisturise and hydrate your skin deep within. 1 or 2 times a week should be fine. I would recommend something along the lines of Weleda Wild Rose Intensive Facial Masque. It will brighten any dull skin and balance moisture levels.

See products here.

Having said this, it really very important to pay close attention to your skin and listen to it. Feed your skin what it needs and set your own standard for your personal skin care.

Beauty & Skincare News Round Up

Soothing Skin Care Collection

One of my favourite brands for body oils, Aromatherapy Associates is set to launch a new range of  products for those people with sensitive skin. Called the Soothing Skin Care collection, the six products that make up this range contain the expected plant extracts, essential oils and prebiotics which help encourage healthy bacteria on the skin’s surface. It focuses on treating the visible signs of sensitive skin addressing redness and irritation.

And in keeping up with the current popularity for beauty balms and face oils, this range includes both along with the regulars – masks, toners and moisturisers all containing the soothing elements of licorice, arnica, camomile and cotton thistle. Sounds like a god send for over exposed skin, stressed and sore skin. There’s a new facial to boot. The Soothing Facial which contains a blend of camomile oils is perfect for inflamed and tired skin.

Available from August at selected spas & salons, Liberty, Fortnum & Mason, Aromatherapy Associates Boutique and Treatment Rooms, priced from £28.

Hydraluron

Indeed Labs which brought us Nanoblur and Snoxin have added a new skin care product to their fold – Hydraluron. This is a booster product for any current skin care regimen to deliver pure hyaluronic acid to the skin. Hyaluronic acid is an important acid for lubricating the skin, and giving us a plump and healthy look, but it diminishes as we age. Hydraluron combats this process by increasing the moisture levels in the skin and improving elasticity.

It also contains bio-engineered marine red algae extract which speeds up cell turnover, allowing the hyaluronic acid to penetrate to even deeper levels boosting the skin from within.

It’s exclusive to Boots from 27th June, priced at £24.99

*round up and images collated from www.diarydirectory.com

Ask Dija: I’ve got dry skin and it always looks dull and grey? How can I turn it around?

Firstly, make sure you are following a proper and consistent face cleaning routine using the correct products for your skin type. I’m going to focus on products that will give your skin a super boost for a long-lasting glow.

• Exfoliation helps to get rid of dead skin cells which sit on the top layer of skin and stop skin care products from being absorbed properly into the skin. It’s this layer of dead skin that can cast a dull tone on the skin. I love Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant which is a rice based enzyme powder you mix with water to create a creamy exfoliant. As the name says it gentle enough to use everyday, but I normally recommend every other day, so as not to irritate the skin.
• Once a week do a moisturising mask that hydrates the skin, help reduce flakes and dry patches. Try Elemis Exotic Cream Moisturising Mask which soothes and hydrates with honey and samphire.
• Invest in an anti oxidant serum. They can be pricey, but I believe they are worth it for excellent skin. A serum has particles small enough to be absorbed in the deeper layers of the skin and nourish from the inside. Look for ones that contain hylauronic acid as this plumps up the skin for a youthful look and glow. SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 is a firm favourite as it not only plumps but repairs tissue.
• Suti Rejuvenate Face Oil makes a great non greasy moisturiser and you only need a few drops to keep your skin hydrated and glowing. Its perfect for parched skin that’s crying out for moisture.

Following these few tips you can turn skin that’s dull and grey to glowing and radiant in no time at all.

You can view all products here.

This week I’m loving

Ardell Lashes

I went to a press event last month where Ardell lashes were being showcased. THE Lousie Page (make up artist to the stars) was supporting the brand that day and she chose a pair of lashes specifically for me that she thought would suit me and that I would like. And true to form, I love them! They are real human hair double lashes (no.204), aptly called Double Up, which give both length and thickness with a gentle flick, but without the dreadful TOWIE effect. These are much more gracious, less brash and less in your face. I think it was a during Chezza’s reign on X Factor that double lashes became popular. But then, people literally used to put one lash on top of another. Ardell has just gone one step further and fused 2 sets of lashes together for more drama sans fuss!

I’ve been wearing them since and I’ve probably had them on for 3 weeks straight. They are a bit knackered now, but thats 21 wears I managed to get out of them. Most lashes only last about 12 wears! I really like that fact that the lashes are easy to handle and with my heavy hands, they still managed to retain their shape, day in, day out. They are also on thinner strips, which means easier to put on too. At under around the £9 price point from Boots, they make a great set for everyday use!

The Nails Show

I love events and this is one that I am SUPER excited about. Its an all day event on Saturday 18th August at Cargo in Shoreditch and it will showcase nails on all levels. I’m still getting more information, but I know that it will be a stellar interactive, exciting and visual show, not only for nail professionals but also most importantly for the general public. There will be free nail art workshops, a live nail art competition and a polish swap for unused and unwanted nail polishes. I know I have a few that could go in that category so it will be exciting to see what I can swap them for. As the saying goes, one persons junk is another persons treasure 🙂 Its a great opportunity learn about all things nails with like minded individuals and with some great brands present there will be something for everyone.

It is a ticketed event so if you’re planning on going (like why wouldn’t you go?!) get your ticket at the early bird price of £7 from www.eventelephant.com/thenailsshow

I’ve got more to come on this, so watch this space, or blog rather 🙂

Coming up….

I’ve been trialling what I hope are some fab new beauty and skin care products over the last few weeks and I should be able to share the results soon. One addresses over plucked eyebrows and the other cellulite which unfortunately like a lot of women, including Kate Moss, I have. Phew! I said and feel so much better!

I really hope I see some improvement in these two areas for two reasons, I dislike trying stuff that doesn’t work. I don’t mind making myself a guinea pig, but I need to see something happen. Secondly, my poor husband takes all my pictures and he hates having to do it. So at least if he’s going to do the photos, let it be worth it.

Also I’ve been to quite a few fun events lately, met lots of lovely bloggers and people in the beauty industry which I love so much – and to document them all, there’s going to be a biiiiiig picture post coming soon. Did you hear me, I said BIG!

Its time I did something about my hair too! Working with my newly rediscovered curly hair, I’ve ben going through products like crazy. Testing different things to see which enhances curls, banishes frizz, gives lustre etc. My check list deserves diva status in its own right. I’ve got a few star products and a few meh products, so I thought I’d do a video. I’ve never done one before so I think it will be fun and interesting. So yeah, a video done my moi – the least technical person I know. This is definitely going to be interesting.

Also keep your skin care and beauty questions coming in for ‘Ask Dija’. I’ve had so many already and thank you, but I want more!

dijasworld@gmail.com

Product Review: Keromask London – Camouflage Cream & Finishing Powder

Essentially in the concealer family of make up products. But this is so much more and the clue is in the name. The key word here is camouflage. This cream is high-powered and designed to cover a multitude of skin problems, not just your odd red spot. It actually comes recommended by the British Association for Skin Camouflage and British Red Cross Skin Camouflage Clinics. These are commendations that mean this is a trusted and regarded product. It’s even on the NHS list as a brand that caters for people with skin conditions.

Designed by Eryca Freemantle, make up artist the main function of this cream to disguise skin imperfections ranging from acne, tattoos, birth marks, prominent veins, vitiligo and rosacea. These are skin issues that can seriously affect ones confidence and the way they live their life. The reason I found out about this is that I have quite a dark patch on my chin which bothers me and it’s not always I can find a concealer that works well and stays put all day. Most regular concealers are fine, this one is just a bit more.

I’m a big fab on trialling products. In these times of austerity its makes perfect sense to me to test something first before investing big bucks and making a committment to it. So whenever, you’re at a counter, ask for a tester to try at home. Any good company will have testers and be more than happy to give you a few in the hope of securing your custom.

Keromask sells only online and I wasn’t sure what shade I’ll need to I opted to purchase a sample kit in dark for £4.99. It arrived very quickly and there’s quite a lot in the kit, which arrives in a blister pack. It contains both the camouflage cream and finishing powders to match, plus mixer powders should you need them to custom blend a shade. You can tell it was developed my a make up artist and I love the fact it provides the mixers as that’s the company accepting that everyone is different with differing requirements. This is a commendable point for me as in reality not one size fits all.

The cream itself is looks like a whipped and the colour permeates throughout. The consistency of double cream. I use my MAC 194 brush to stipple it on, then use the brush to softly blend it in. It dries quite quickly to what looks like almost a powder finish. I find it doesn’t budge or smudge during the day and stays put without the need for reapplying. This is very important when you’re trying to mask imperfections as the last thing you want is to be sat in a meeting wondering whether your make up is still in place.

For its consistency the coverage is excellent and truly covers what you don’t want to be seen. The company says its cover with confidence and I am confident that this product does its job. I’ve not used the powders provided as I am happy to use my normal finishing powder (MAC mineralised) over the top. The powders contain parabens, but as its use would be limited to such small amounts, that is not something that would bother me.

My final conclusion on Keromask is that it’s an excellent product and is up there amongst the best concealers I’ve used. I think it would really make a difference to people who suffer from major imperfections like vitiligo or perma dark circles. With 24 shades and the ability to mix them all, I’m confident that everyone will be able to use this range. I used it for almost superficial cosmetic reasons, but if you have major skin problems, this product will mean even more so to you than me.

You can watch the video below to get more background behind the product. Ignore the bit about the end about cleaning your make up off with their wipes. NO-ONE should be using wipes to clean their face. Its just filthy. Wash your face with water and a suitable cleanser. 

Ask Dija: What are the must have nail products?

I believe having good nails is a very simple job and not as time-consuming as we sometimes think it is, so long as you have all the right products and tools to use. Every home care kit should include:

Nail File – Leighton Denny  Crystal nail files (£12.50) are the best. It doesn’t shatter or peel the nail as you file and you can file forwards and backwards unlike traditional emery boards. It was a lifetime guarantee, so long as you don’t drop it! 

Nail Treatment – Dr. Lewinns Renunail Nail Strengthener (£17.50). It contains calcium to boost weak nails and camphor which is a soother to sensitive nails. It’s an award-winning formula that delivers a lot of TLC!

Cuticle Exfoliator – watching your favourite TV programme – stick this on and rub into the cuticle area. 15 minutes in they will be soft enough to push back. The best one I’ve found is OPI’s Avoplex Cuticle Exfoliating Treatment (£12.80) which contains a melange of AHA’s and the specially patented avocado (very moisturising) lipid complex. It’s a gentle slougher that works amazingly on dead skin cells.

Cuticle sticks and cuticle scissors – these pesky slivers of translucent skin that travel up the nail bed need keeping in control. You have to be extremely careful with cuticle scissors. Only nip what you can see on the surface of the nail or you can draw blood. If in doubt don’t cut. See a nail care professional. I cannot stress this enough.

Hand Exfoliator – keep this at the kitchen of bathroom sink. Every couple of days, scrub your hands. After your face and neck, your hands show age next. L’Occitane One Minute Hand Scrub (£13) contains organic brown sugar for working away dead and dull skin and shea, grape seed and sweet almond oil to moisturise.

Moisturiser – There are so many out there to choose from, and the one you use I think is down to personal preference. Personally for me I love the brand Olivina’s Olive Hand Cream (£15). The list of beneficial ingredients is outstanding – shea, olive oil, grape seed oil, vitamin E, chamomile extract and aloe vera. For a more high-tech scientific punch Sisley Global Anti Age Hand Cream tackles the loss of elastin and brown age spots. Contains UVA and UVB filters (spf 10). It is £70 though so think twice and use sparingly.

Cuticle Oil – Keep a bottle at your bedside. Try and remember to put some on before bed.  CND Solar Oil (£12) is excellent and contains ultra moisturising Jojoba oil and vitamin E which will penetrate and protect the nail and surrounding skin. If not OPI Cuticle Oil on the Go (£9.60) is a lovely gel version in a squeezy tube with a brush that you can keep in your hand bag for when you have a spare minute on the train or bus. Nails Inc do a snazzy pen version which too is very handy (£12).

If you wear nail lacquer – I highly rate the following base and top coat.

Base coat – OPI RidgeFiller (£11) – this fills out all ‘nail wrinkles’ giving the smoothest ever surface to paint from.

Top coat  – Orly Glosser  (£6) – delivers super shiny nails and dries in an instant.

Remover – Sally Hansen Acetone free  (£2.45) – takes polish off and is gentle on nails and wallet.

So there you have it. With a little investment and some quality products you can anyone can achieve beautiful hands and nails at home.

Ask Dija

I’ve been deliberating over the past few weeks whether to start an ‘Ask Dija’ option on my online bubble of goodness. I am a trained beauty therapist, make up artist and nail care professional and I get asked loads of questions about different products, routines and treatments all the time. Normally I just babble of an answer, but a few people have suggested that I should take questions on the blog and post an answer for everyone to see and learn from. So here goes…..

From this week, I’ll be doing ‘Ask Dija’. So if you have any questions you want answered, just email me at:

dijsaworld@gmail.com

Don’t worry, I won’t disclose any personal details and if its particularly sensitive, you can request that I reply only to you on email and I’ll do just that! However, if I feel that people will benefit from the answer, I will rehash the question in my own words and post a response on the blog as well.

I’ve already got 3 questions lined up which hopefully I’ll post answers to this week.

So go on, what do you want to know?

Behind Beauty: Rodial

I was really pleased to come across this article yesterday by Lucy Tobin in yesterday’s Evening Standard. So much so I had to share it.

I’ve heard a lot about Rodial products and I’m glad to now know a bit of background. It’s always interesting to know how brands came behind about and the people behind them. When I use the products, I always feel a bit more connected and the owner Maria Hatzistefanis might be Greek born, but this is a British brand through and through.

I think this article is the perfect combination of brains, beauty, ambition and drive.

Click on article to enlarge for reading.