Philips VisaPure Review

I was kindly given by Philips their New VisaPure electric cleansing brush to test and review for them.

As you know I have already reviewed the Clarisonic, so I am going to write this review as if I haven't, for 2 reasons.
 1, I was supposed to have got this before receiving the Clarisonic and so my review would have been just on the VisaPure.
2. I feel the VisaPure review should just reflect my opinion on this brush.

I will however, for those who wish to know any differences on the two brushes do a separate post on the comparisons.

The VisaPure Experience

Philips knows that cleansing is the most important part of every women's skincare routine. With the VisaPure, women can now take their cleansing routine to the next level,  providing a gentle, easy-to-use electronic skin cleansing device that massages the skin to remove make-up, dirt and impurities, which is 10 x more effective than manual cleansing.

VisaPure is fully waterproof enabling it to be used in the shower. It features a unique "Dual Motion " technology ( vibration and rotating ) creating a comfortable massaging effect to stimulate micro-circulation beneath the skin's surface, renewing skin to bring out its natural radiance.

Revitalising the face and decolletage just takes 1min each, easily fitting into the every woman's daily routine alongside their existing products. The added benefit of using the device is that it optimise the skin preparation to absorb other products ( i.e Serums and Creams ) much more effectively, reinforcing their beneficial effects and helping the skin to look healthier and more radiant.

My VisaPure Experience

The VisaPure has definitely been designed with women in mind. My first impressions of the brush was that it looks very feminine stylish and almost sexual, in the sense it remains of something you would have in your sex drawer. However, I do love the design and it looks fab on the dressing table or in the bathroom.
It is also very light weight and could easily been taken with your on travels ( I will certainly be packing this in my hospital bag for when I go in to have my baby ).

The brush comes with two brushes to start you off, a normal brush head and a sensitive brush head. You can also buy an exfoliating brush head separately. The price of the brush heads are really competitive from just £7.99! As like a most electric devices with brush heads ( i.e toothbrush and other electric skin cleansers ) brushes should be changed every 3-4 months.

I've been using the normal brush head on this device and it is very soft ( think of a how a baby brush feels like ). I have used this now for 2 weeks and the brush feels amazing on the skin.  On my opinion alittle on the small side but than it fits with size and style of the device. I also found the device a little awkward to hold at first but after a few days of using it, I got the feel of the device. I have used both settings - the everyday "Gentle Cleansing" and the 1-2 times a week " Deep Cleansing " ( which you could use the exfoliating brush head for too ).  Both feel great and leave your skin amazing soft, smooth and radiant.
There is also a Skin Zone Timer on the brush which indicates when it is time to move on to the next area, which ensure the face and decolletage are cleansed thoroughly and evenly.

What I was surprised about, was it only took 6 hours to charge up, meaning  I could use this the next morning of receiving it. The stand is the charger, but you can unplug the cord so that the stand can sit in the bathroom when the device is fully charged. The device when charge has 30mins of use, which gives you a whole months use before charging up again, which in turn again is fab if your wanting to take this on holiday.

You also don't need as much cleanser as you would have used manually. A small blob just in the middle seems to be enough to cleanse the whole face.  Since using an electric skin cleansing device, I have noticed my skin is less prone to blemish or breakouts, my T-Zone is less oily and the skin is amazing smooth, radiant and even skin toned. You will also notice your serums, oils and creams go in much easier and their results are more effective too.

The price is very competitive too at £150  and available though Boots.com or instore. I would definitely recommend using an electric skin cleansing device to anyone who wants to supercharge their cleansing routine and skincare routine.

For more information on Philips VisaPure you can visit their Facebook page, or www.philips.co.uk

Saaf Skincare - Review Face and Body

I received a PR request from Tots100 asking to review a skincare brand called Saaf. When I read up about the company, I knew this was something I really wanted to try. As you already know I am in the field of skincare and regularly write up about skincare so this was definitely an great opportunity for me.

Saaf Skincare got back in touch and recommended two of the products to trial, and asked was there anything else in particular I would like to try. As I am currently pregnant, I saw they had a body oil for stretchmarks so kindly asked if I could sample this.

Few days later the postman brought me the products :-)

Saaf Skincare - Who are they?

Saaf means "pure" in Persian. Their philosophy is in harnessing the powerful properties of organic ingredients. Ingredients that are so pure they allow our range to be one of the most certified & accredited in the world, including approvals from vegetarian, vegan and halal societies.

The smell and colour of products certainly show off the ingredients used well. I love the smell of organic skincare, the blend of essential oils and natural ingredients. A-Z-of-goodness.

Dr Mah Hussain-Gambles, the founder of Saaf Skincare is a trained pharmacologist and homeopath. She discovered the powerful properties nature and science when she first created the balm for her mother, for condition that no other cream touched. And so Saaf Skincare was born with the combination of the finest natural ingredients in scientific formulations to create a pure and powerful range of products that nurtures both body and soul.

Saaf Skincare has developed a wide range of products to suit every skin type and help every condition that her family, her friends and you can truly trust.

Review on the products sent are below. I have used all for just over a week now. Please note my reviews will only reflect a weeks worth of results. To see the full potential of any product, you will  need the full 4 weeks ( 28 day cycle of your skin ) to see the maximum results.

Skincare - Pure Face Cleanser & Organic Face Cloth

 This face balm is suitable for all skin types and comes with a muslin cloth. It melts on the skin like an oil, and you really don't need a lot of it.  The balm helps to purify, balance, sooth and moisturise your skin leaving it feeling luxurious, and it certainly does that. The organic face cloth gently remove impurities and makeup whilst exfoliating and rejuvenating the skin.
All the products have a signature yellow/gold appearance to them and the balm smells Divine with the essential oil of geranium showing though for me.
Key ingredient in the balm are; 

Jojoba Oil melts away make-up while softening, protecting and leaving skin feeling nourished.
Safflower Oil helps soothe irritations and Olive Oil has a regenerating effect on the skin.
Organic Beeswax helps soften dry skin whilst Shea Butter helps improve elasticity.
Soothing Lavender, skin-harmonising Geranium and nurturing Grapefruit Peel Oil help calm and normalise all skin types.

To use, I would definitely follow the instructions. I first used it with my Clarisonic as you are meant to be able to use any cleanser with it, however for this type it didn't quite work out.

Soak the Organic Face Cloth in warm water and wring it out so it’s damp.
Smooth a generous amount of cleanser onto your face with your fingertips and massage in.
Gently wipe off with the face cloth, taking care around the sensitive eye area.

As I love to use my clarisonic, I use this balm as pre-cleanse. The balm really feels luxuries on the skin and leaves your skin feeling soft. I felt you didn't need a lot of the balm as it melts so easily into your skin and glides around, and would imagine the pot lasts for quiet some time too. The price is really competitive at just £29.99 for 40g. I would definitely recommend this balm to all my friends. 

Skincare - Complexion Boosting Face Serum

This is 1 of 2 serums Saaf do to help moisturise and perfect your skin after cleansing, depending on your skin type. The Complexion Boosting Face Serum is for Normal to Combination skin,  to help decongest, balance and improve the tone of the skin.
 Ideal for:
Detoxing congested skin
Oily and acne prone skin condition
Dull skin
Hyper pigmentation and uneven skin tone and texture

Key Ingredients are;

Safflower Oil soothes skin irritations and itchiness as well as increasing the moisture content of the skin.
Jojoba Oil has long been used as a skin lubricant as its composition is close to that of the skin's actual sebum. In harmony with your skin, it is easily absorbed and imparts a soft, velvety quality. It is also protective, helping the skin retain its moisture.
Rosehip Seed Oil promotes healthy skin renewal whilst Black Seed Oil acts as an anti-inflammatory to help clear breakouts and smooth blemishes.
Lemongrass essential oil was used in traditional Indian medicine for its pore refining properties and
Juniper Berry essential oil is long known for its skin detoxifying and purifying effects. It is a marvellous aid in balancing oily complexions and helpful for soothing acne.

Directions for use; After Cleansing, Push down the pump dispenser once, and pump the serum into your palm.Gently press a small amount onto your skin and massage gently in a circular, upward direction.

Leave to penetrate for a few minutes and, if necessary, blot off any excess with a tissue.
Apply morning and evening.

I love facial oils, purely because I love to do a mini facial on my skin with my cleansing routine and find oils are easier to work with. This facial oil smells also Divine, with the smell of citrus and absorbs into the skin easily, as I haven't had the need to blot any excess off, one pump is enough to face and neck area. I also press a serum into the face first ( with an oil you can warm this up with your hands first by rubbing them together than pressing ) than starting with my neck I use a sweeping motion upwards to the chin. Than I proceed with a mini facial which takes depending on my time from litarly 1 -2 mins.
I allow the oil to penetrate by putting my eye product on next before than proceeding with my moisturiser. This is great product to use both day and evening. Highly recommended for combination to oily skin. I have noticed my skin isn't as oily on the t-zone now and complexion is very even toned, radient and smooth.  I just love the smell too that it leaves on your skin.
Price is very competitive at a very good price of £29.99 - 30ml.  1 pump is all you need, so the bottle lasts quite awhile.

Body Care - Eraser Body Oil

Saaf philosophy on this product is -

Nature’s correction fluid in a bottle, this impressive toning and smoothing oil is a skin-saving formulation.

 The Oil contains a high percentage of Rosehip Seed Oil, a known to effectivelyingredient to effectly reduce uneven pigmentation and the appearance of raised scar tissue, along with Safflower Oil which soothes skin irritations while increasing the moisture content of the skin.
Both nourishing and protective, Organic Eraser Body Oil promotes healthy skin renewal, guards against scarring, calms irritated, itchy skin and helps keep skin supple and smooth.

Ideal for:

• All skin types - especially pregnant and post pregnancy skin
• Preventing the development and reducing the appearance of stretch marks
• Soothing away hyper pigmentation
• Old scars
• Protecting the skin from the effects of a sun tan

Key Ingredients :

Safflower Oil is mentioned in ancient Egyptian texts and was used to heal old wounds. It is easily absorbed by the skin due to its high linoleic acid content and leaves no greasy residue. It soothes skin irritations, increases the moisture content of the skin, so it is particularly good for sensitive skin.
   
Rosehip Seed Oil helps to reduce pigmentation and raised scar tissue by promoting healthy skin renewal, even on old scars. It also aids cell regeneration and boosts collagen and elastin to create smoother, firmer skin.
Mandarin essential oil helps ease and repair scars, spots and stretch marks and gives Eraser Body Oil its lovely citrus fragrance.

The citrus smell from the mandairn is just divine. I have totally fallen in love with this product and by far the best oil I have used in the pregnancy so far. From first use it made my skin feel much smoother and hydrated. I don't itch as much using this oil throghout the day as like some of others I have used, which have needed me to put more on. This oil goes though the day lovely without any more application until I go to bed.
I have noticed the appearance of my old stretchmarks from my last pregnancy and from teenage grrowth have appeared to have faded and much smoother too. I look forward to seeing results are my baby is born.

Now the sun is out, I am going to also try this on my arms where I have freakles which appear more when the sun comes out, as the oil is meant to be great for pigmnation and sun effects.

High recommended during pregnany for certain. The price is also very good!!  I have used oils in the pregnancy from self selection and premium beauty that have been of similar size quanity but seem to use up quite quick and not as great on the skin like this one. At just £39.99 for 100ml. I use this everyday and the bottle still looks I have used much, even though i smother this on.

For more information on Saaf Skincare, and to purchase their products visit www.saafskincare.com

Clarisonic Plus - Review Part 1

I couldn't believe my eyes when the postman brought me this to my door at the beginning of the month. As a Thank You Gift from work for our hard work, we were given this wonderful gift. A Clarisonic Plus for Face and Body.

I am doing this review in two parts, this one is for the face and I will do the body at a later stage as currently 8 months pregnant I am finding it hard to reach certain parts.

Now I know the Clarisonic has been around for a while now, and many companies have tried to sell there own version of it. It would be great to compare them all but for now this is my experience of using the Clarisonic.

Firstly what makes Clarisonic different from any other electric cleansing face brush?

Clarisonic Cleansing uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to gently, yet thoroughly remove significantly more makeup. There research has shown that Clarisonic Cleansing:

• Removes more makeup than manual cleansing.

• Leads to greater absorption of Vitamin C when compared to manual cleansing.

• Helps to improve the appearance of skin tone, texture, elasticity and firmness

• Makes skin look and feel softer, smoother and healthier.

• Reduces the appearance of visible pores

• Is a gentle cleansing process that can be used up to 2 a day, for a maximum of 2 minutes in total.

The Clarisonic is suitable for all skin types with different brushes for each type - Sensitive, Delicate, Normal and Deep Cleansing.  Although you can use any cleanser with the Clarisonic, Clarionic also do there own cleansers for each skin type and an exfoliator.

In the package you get a sample size of  the 3 cleansers; cleansing refreshing gel, nourishing care cleanser and gentle hydro cleanser. I have so far only used the refreshing gel cleanser after my usual cleanser ran out a week ago ( my usual cleanser is Biotherm's Normal/Combi cleansing mousse ). The refreshing gel is just a good as my usual cleanser, and it does feel refreshing and doesn't dry your skin out after like it says.

You also get a sensitive brush head but can purchase other heads if needed. As the brush isn't suitable around the eyes, it suggests to remove with eye make up first. I also pre-cleanse my face with a bit of cleanser to wash my eyes before using the brush.

To use the brush, all it takes is 1 minute which is spilt down into individual timer parts indicated by a bleep timer on the brush. This is called the T-Timer,  Starting with the forehead, than nose and chin finishing on the cheeks.
Check the Videos on the Clarisonic website The Sonic Difference Videos

It is also waterproof and can be used in the shower, which is great for me as I shower every morning. The brush feels amazing on the skin too and you can really feel the difference from first use. My skin has improved with its tone and texture almost instantly and was getting comments alot in the first week or two.
My pores have definitely reduced as well which is something I've tried many products to do but nothing worked, so I am really happy a brush can do this. Pores have been reduced on forehead, nose and chin.
Due to this, I believe this is why my skin isn't so oily as it used to be on those areas which is fab news.

I love using this product and just like I would never swap my electric tooth brush for a manual. I think the same goes for my cleansing routine.

I can not wait to try out the body brushing after I have had my baby, and see the results it can do on my thighs, knees and other parts. Part 2 for the body will done around end of July/August.

I would definitely recommend using the clarisonic for anyone who loves to look after their skin. Suitable for all skin types due to the different heads. Prices start at £99

For more info on Clarisonic and where to purchase visit www.clarisonic.co.uk

Please note: Although this was a gift from my work, my opinion and review on this product has not been affected, influenced or biaz. This is my true review of the product.

Brevity Beauty - A quick yet effective cleansing system.

So who are Brevity Beauty?  It was only a couple of weeks ago I had heard of them, and via twitter!
They had contacted regards to trying out their 3 step cleansing system, and as I love trying new products especially beauty products, you can imagine I jumped at the chance in doing so.

I am not sure when the company was founded by Sue Jones but the background into the products and name of the company is a wonderful story - with Japanese connections and Shakespare ( Brevity Beauty - History and Philosophy
The Shakespare part is the the word Brevity, derived from Polonius’ speech in Hamlet where he stated “Brevity is the soul of wit” . Brevity Beauty's ethos is “Brevity is the soul of beauty”. Brevity means brief, quick and certianly their regime is breif and quick. Which for some of us with busy lifestyles will love without having to compromise on quality and effective skincare regime.

Ok, so what is in the products that makes it so effective yet quick? - Marine Collagen! combined with licorice, geranium and Hyaluronic acid which are all renowned for helping reduce fine lines and wrinkles, diminishing pigmentation spots and firming the skin.

The 3 Step System:
1) The Cleansing Lotion
2) The Conditioning Bar and Lather Net ( unique and fun to use )
3)The All in One Moisturising Gel

When I received this, I was wondering what the net was for, and it this that makes their 3 step rather unique and fun to use. However, I will explain usage in a second.
The Brevity 3 Step uses a double cleansing system and a combined toner/moisturiser. The cleansing lotion removes any makeup  efficiently and effectively. Apply this to your hands and massage into the skin, than cleanse away with water. You than place the cleansing bar into the net, wet with some warm water and rub the net between your palms to create a foam. Take the bar out, and squeeze the net with one hand from top to bottom to remove the foam onto your hands and massage foam onto face ( do not use the net on the face ). Then just rinse with water and pat dry.  I found my skin beautifully squeaky clean - but not drying like soaps can be. It felt gentle but definitely effective.
Once you pat dry, apply the moisturising gel all over face and neck. The texture of the gel was lovely and my face felt moisturised afterwards.
I have placed the video of how to use the products, as it is best seen!

I have used it for 4 days now, and I haven't any problems with it. My skin has felt really clean, soft and moisturised after using the products. I also liked the fact it was quick, all 3 steps took less than 5 Min's to do, and as mother, and I work full time too, a regime like this is great.
As someone who works in the beauty industry, I know you really need a good 4 weeks to see real improvements on your skin, although some results like I have mentioned are seen instantly, for results on wrinkles, lines, tone of skin etc you would need at least 4 weeks. I would recommend using the products, as they have felt really comfortable on my skin and would continue to use to see the longer term results.
Price wise, I feel they are very reasonable, falling in the same category to other premium brands that offer similar products in terms of marine, or anti ageing.

I believe as I write this, Brevity Beauty are still offering samples out to try their skincare - if you follow them on Facebook or Twitter.

Elemental Herbology | Skincare Trial Kit

In my previous post, I told you I had ordered the LIB Little Beauty Box which 3 samples I choose for just £1.50.

One of the samples I choose was the Elemental Herbology skincare trial kit which consisted of 3 sachets;

COOL AND CLEAR Facial Cleanser

 This ultra gentle facial cleanser will help the skin find its equilibrium. Free of fragrance and sulphates it helps dissolve impurities and balance sebum protection to purify and resolve congested skin. Recommended for all skin types - including teenagers.

• Contains a complex blend of valuable sugar structures from Apple with a nutrient-rich Bio-dynamic Algae to help stimulate cell renewal.
• Green Tea to cool and calm the skin while boosting anti-oxidant activity.
•  
• SLS-Free cleansing agent which creates a dense and abundant foam, gentle for the skin and eyes.
• Water Lily Flower Extract to help the skin combat external aggression – in particular solar irritation.
• Xylitol Glucoside to bind moisture deep within the skins surface layers, making the skin feels soft, smooth and balanced.
• Soothing and cooling properties of Aloe Vera and Bisabolol for powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant and anti-microbial properties.
• Lavender and Tea Tree gently balances sebum.

The cleanser smelt gorgeous, had a lovely natural zesty smell. I really loved the texture of this gel and it left my skin feeling really clean and nourish without it feeling left dry ( which i find some cleanser can do to my skin ). I will certainly be looking at buying this one.

 

I followed with

 

 FACIAL GLOW Radiance peel mask   

This mask helps to gently resolve dull, flaky and congested skin while stimulating the skins metabolism to promote a glowing and radiant complexion. It helps reduce pigmentation and balance skin tone, while purifying the pores and helping reduce fine lines and wrinkles. A weekly essential for all skin types.

• Apple serum, Papaya, Orange Peel, Tangerine and Jojoba beads (micro-spherical, non-abrasive) gently shed dead skin cells to make room for new epidermal growth.
• Encapsulated Vitamin C from the Acerola Cherry originating in the West Indies which has the highest content of Vitamin C among all fruits.
• Kombuchka and diacetyl boldine triglycerides – which have illustrated a remarkable improvement in the skins texture, while visibly reducing pigmentation.
• Vitamin A, C and E, Green Tea and Pomegranate to protect against oxidative damage.
• Pearl Extract used by traditional Chinese medicine to slow down ageing by improving the skins metabolism, while promoting a healthy glow.
• Manuka Honey and Water Lily for a powerful anti-inflammatory action that soothes and calms the skin.
• Pomegranate, Argan, Macadamia and Olive Oil infuses the skin with essential fatty acids, hydrate and nourishes sensitive skin.
• Multimineral Chrono-Energiser compex composed of Zinc, Copper and Magnesium revitalises the skin by ‘waking up’ cellular metabolism.

Again this is a wonderful product! The smell was yet another gorgeous natural zesty/fruity smell and the product felt amazing on the skin.  Recommended to leave on for 4 mins you really felt the product work in a good way. I definitely notice a difference in my skin afterwards too as it seemed alot brighter and fresher. Again I would definitely go and buy this product.

I than applied

SOOTHING OIL FREE Facial Hydrator SPF 12 which is suitable for all skin types. This ultra light formulation helps balance sebum production and protects against oxidisation from the sun and pollution while its anti-ageing actives help repair sun-damaged skin and boost the complexion to impart a healthy summer glow.

• Power-house’ of anti-oxidants: Kakadu Plum, Green Tea, Acerola Fruit and Vitamin A, C and E.
• Sri Lankan Cinnamon and cocoa for a powerful astringent effect.
• Pearl Extract used by traditional Chinese medicine to slow down ageing by improving the skins metabolism, while promoting a healthy glow.
• Oak Apple and Millet stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis to firm and tone the skin.
• Gamma Oryzanol to provide a natural sun protection booster.
• Fresh Pumpkin Cells rich in anti-oxidants help to protect and nourish the skin make them ideal for after-sun treatments.
• Olive Squalane is a botanical lipid similar in molecular structure to human lipids that absorbs quickly without making the skin greasy.
• Multimineral Chrono-Energiser complex composed of zinc, Copper and Magnesium revitalises the skin by ‘waking up’ cellular metabolism.
• Mineral rich Sea Salts help detoxify and purify the body by drawing out impurities through the skin.
• Aloe Vera to cool and soothe.

The moisturiser texture is very light and readily absorbed into your skin without feeling greasy, and left it feeling nourished with a lovely glow. It was also a good base for than putting on makeup.
Again at first impressions, I would go and buy this product.

Overall I was very impressed with my samples and the products were amazing. I love skincare and even though I am always on the look for trying something new, I do have my favourites and this has got to be one of them.

For more info on Elemental Herbology and there range of products visit http://elementalherbology.com