MyShowcase - A New Way to Discover and Buy Beauty Products

 

 What is MyShowcase?

MyShowcase is a Personal Beauty Shopping Service which helps women to discover the best beauty products, from 45+ of the best independent brands selected by award-winning beauty editor, Kate Shapland.

The MyShowcase brand's product line-up are available through Independent Stylists at private showcases in homes and offices and via MyShowcase.com. Stylists bring together a direct sales approach with a contemporary, social shopping experience so that customers can discover and buy new beauty brands whilst shopping with friends.

MyShowcase were awarded Winner of the 2016 Excellence ("best company") Award from the UK Direct Sales Association

https://www.facebook.com/direct.selling.association/posts/1282796308398811

Why I chose MyShowcase?

I had worked in direct selling before with Pampered Chef and NYR Organics before leaving them to pursue my career in management in the beauty retail industry. I was looking at getting back into it but wanted to go with company that wasn't all over my town. There are too many Avon, Younique, Mary Kay, you name it and you'll find a dozen or more in the town. I also wanted to go with a company that offered a wide range of products for my clients with a price that was right for everyones budget.

MyShowcase ticked all the boxes for me. It was established but still young meaning there are very few in our county ( yes I said county not town!). The product range carried over 45 brands not just one, which meant I could give my customers a variety of options and find the perfect product for their   requirements and budget. There was also a choice of 3 kits, again aimed at a cost you could afford.

All 3 Kits and Prices can be viewed though the picture.

I also think that the host rewards are one of the best I have seen in direct selling, as the host is not required to get orders to get a generous 20% off the products. If the host does gets orders that is a bonus and will unlock even more.

If you would love to know more about MyShowcase, either to buy products, be a host or even join this fab business opportunity with me. Feel free to visit my website

 www.myshowcase.com/stylist/rachel_thornton

Katherine Daniels - Skincare Review*

I love skincare, and who doesn't? and this latest brand I have come across is going to be added to my list of favourites.

Katherine Daniels Cosmetics is a brand that is new to 2014. Developed by two skincare experts, who have worked for many years with salons and therapist. They realised there was a gap in the British salon market with treating the most common skin types and conditions, whilst taking into consideration client lifestyle, environment and our climate.

With active ingredients are from plant, marine, Collagen and biotechnology sources ( I love active ingredients from marine as you know ), they provide result driven treatments for the salon and a retail line for the face and body for clients to use at home.

Their mission is simple - Giving salons the tools to truly treat skin in the UK effectively and to de-mystify skincare for everyone ( you can expect outstanding results without complicated products and confusing regimes).

I was kindly given a trial size pack for sensitive skin ( I was given the option either for dry or sensitive ), I chose the sensitive as my skin isn't particularly dry . I would say normal with a slight ( and very slight ) oily t-zone and sometimes it can be a little sensitive to products.

I thought the packaging of the products is very chic and stylish, yet beautifully simple, fitting well in a spa, or even in premium department stores beauty halls. 

The trial pack contained:
Essential Cleansing Milk
Essential Toning Lotion
Sensitive Skin Cream

Now I am not one for using a cleansing milk, as prefer to wash whilst in the shower every morning. I was pleasantly surprised how luxurious this milk felt but yet it wasn't as thick as most cleansing milks are. It was very gentle and light, making the skin feel incredibly soft , smooth and hydrated. It didn't make my skin feel tight or dry as i have found a lot of milks do. I still however, preferred to use this as a night cleanser due to my preference of my morning cleansing of my face. I would love for that reason to try the gel cleanser which would probably suit me more for in the shower.

I fall in love with the toning lotion. The smell is divine and even better it felt great on the skin. This is one of the toners that doesn't contain alcohol ( which dries the skin out ). It contains red seaweed extract, which helps soothes the skin and this toner certainly does. I felt I could bathe my skin in this as it felt so lovely on the skin. It also a toner that you may need to pat off slightly, but I normally just wipe over with the back of the cotton pad and let the skin drink the rest before applying a serum. You don't need a lot of the toner either on the pad for it to be soaked, so goes a long way.

The sensitive skin cream is much like the cleansing milk in the sense that it even though it is so simple, it feels so luxurious. You need a small amount to do both your face and neck as a little definitely goes a long way. The cream feels more like a gel, soothing your face like water, it instantly hydrates and makes your face feel so soft. I keep this one in my gym bag now too.

I managed to get a good 3 weeks out of the toner and still have some of the milk and cream left ( now 4 weeks ) and my skin looks and feels great. Its smooth, plump and glowing.

Prices for the products are competitively priced, sitting in the range of premium high street/ luxury department store with their essentials starting at £19, their creams at £34.50.

For more information on Katherine Daniels or to find a salon near you please visit :
www.katherinedanielscosmetics.com

Winter Skin Survival

Skincare in the colder months is just important as in the summer months. Being exposed to extreme weather conditions and central heating can play havoc to your skin's condition.

So as we enter the Autumn and Winter months and the colder weather lets have a look at your skincare products.

A good moisturiser is a must to keep skin in its top condition and protect it from the harsh conditions of the cold and central heating, which can still dehydrate your skin, and dry it out. In turn this can premature the skin making it look older than it is.

As I have mentioned before in a post, drinking plenty of water doesn't actually help your skin, the water you drink always goes to your organs first, than skin last. Having a moisturiser that contains ingredients like shea butter or oils can help replenish and protect the skin. If your unsure on what to go for, either visit a beauty counter who can give you a skincare consultation or look for products that say they hydrate, quench your skin ( obviously check it is right for your skin type i.e dry, oily, sensitive, mature )

It isn't just your face though that will battle with the winter months. Your body and hair can also suffer with the extreme conditions. If your not already giving your hair a good deep conditioning once in a while, it worth doing so in the winter months, and using a oil like argon oil before blowing drying can help with keeping it in top condition.

Your body had to battle with extra layers, wool, central heating, and a lot of people forget about moisturising this part. There are plenty of lovely body moisturisers out there to keep it hydrated and again look for products that contain shea butter or even aloe vera.

Another part of the body often forgotten and suffers a lot in the winter is the hands. Not only is it drying out everytime you wash your hands, but now it has to battle with the weather, central heating and  of course gloves. Treat your hands to a good moisturiser that you can keep in your bag, and depending on how dry your hands are, a deep treatment overnight would be beneficial too ( cover your hand with a good moisturiser and put gloves on and leave overnight ).

Below are some of the products, I recommend - some are off high street, some are premium, just remember to check it for your skin type first i.e some products are for all skin types, others may have two verison - one for very dry/dry and one for normal/oily/combi

Keep your skin hydrated in the summer heat

There are four skincare products that I can not live without, especially in this heat. All are products are  from Biotherm.

Skin needs water as much as the body does, but the skin is the last place water is given too when you drink water, and no matter how much you drink either, it always goes to your organs first.

One way of giving your skin the water it needs is though your skincare products and for one brand, water is the heart of its skincare.

Now you know I have written about Biotherm many times before, with reviews on the Skin Ergetic and the Blue Therapy range.  If you would like to know more about the company history visit the Biotherm Website.

The four products I use on a daily basis are;

• The Blue Therapy Serum
• Aquasource Normal/Combination Moisturiser
• UV Supra D-Tox SPF 50 
• Aquasource Nuit

The Serum, Moisturiser and Nuit are good for all year round. The White Detox SPF 50 I use in the summer periods.

So why do I love these products so much?

You may have already read about the Blue Therapy Serum review, and so this is a great product to use to keep the damage of the UVA and UVB's at bay in the summer time, as well as a good anti ageing serum to firm and give radiance to your skin.

 The Aquasource moisturiser is a very light weight and refreshing cream/gel and within it, it has the equivalent of 5000 litres of the thermal plankton cellular water, which is the spring water that Biotherm obtains its unique ingredient from - Thermal Plankton. Unlike most moisturisers, the Aquasource keeps you hydrated for 24hours. My skin always looks plump, radiant and constantly hydrated when using this moisturiser. The best bit is you do not need a lot of it to go a long way either. I use a 20p size amount on my face and neck. A 50ml pot definitely gets you a good 6 month worth of usage too and for just £28 I find that very reasonable. More information on the Aquasource Moisturiser can be found here

For the summer months, I wouldn't leave my door without putting on my sun block, UV Supra D-tox SPF 50, on my face. Like a lot of us, there are have been many years where I have forgotten to put my sun cream on my face. Yes I have natural freckles but I have notice I have a few more at recent times, than those I was born with. This is sun damage ( which the blue therapy will help but you also need to wear a sun cream/block to help protect too ) and since working in skincare, I have become more aware of the damages the sun can do to your body.
What I most like about this product though, is that it is still very light weight and not sticky as you would expect from a spf 50 or sun block. This can be used a primer under makeup as well and even applied on to of makeup if need to re-apply during the day. Price is £19.50 for a 30ml.

For the evening, and I use this all year round as I totally love this product for night time, is the Aquasource Nuit. As part of the Aquasource range, you instantly know it is going to feed your skin with the water and mineral nutrients it needs. The blue gel which as it touches the skin turns in a liquid/oil like texture, boosts your skin though the night with moisture. results is you wake up to fresh looking, luminous skin which feels more elastic and radiant, as if reawakened. I call this a facial in a bottle. It is suitable for all skin types too and just like the moisturiser you don't need alot. One pump is enough to do your whole face. Price is £28 for a 50ml and again, I get a good 6 month use out this bottle.

For more information on Biotherm's product visit www.biotherm.co.uk or visit facebook.com/Biotherm

Benefits Skincare - A pleasant Surprise

Most of us know Benefit as a cosmetics brand and not for their skincare. Their skincare range I knew of when they first introduced it a few years ago, but until now, I hadn't tried it.

Well I have got to admit, I was a bit unsure how well their skincare would be, and I am actually pleasantly surprised how good their moisturiser is!

I haven't tried all the skincare yet, only their triple performing facial emulsion SPF 15 PA++, which is an oil-free lotion with tri-radiance complex ( basically means it hydrates, protects & comforts the skin).

I applied this after my usual toner, and applied as instructed. It felt a little tacky in texture but on the skin once it absorbed in felt lovely. It certainly made my skin feel hydrated and comfortable. It even felt matt too and definitely left the t-zone which sometimes for me gets alittle oily though the day, pretty much matt all day long.

I used this for 4 weeks and had no problems with it either.

The Packaging and design of the product is typical Benefit but totally gorgeous and looks so good either on your dressing table or in the bathroom.

Price is very reasonable too at just £20.50 for a 50ml bottle.

For more information on their skincare range see video below or visit www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk

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.

Biotherms New Serum - Blue Therapy

You may remember me writing a blog over a year ago on a product by Biotherm, Skin Energetic. Biotherm has once again launch another fabulous serum - Blue Therapy.

If you are not aware of the brand, Biotherm are an advanced skincare brand in marine aquatics. Founded in 1952, they have been pioneering skincare inspired by the powers of the earths living waters to create skincare solutions that work in affinity with your skin. Experts in biotechnology, they infuse efficient aquatic extracts in fresh, pleasurable textures to make skin more healthier, stronger and radiant.

Blue Therapy is a serum that  definitely shows how marine aquatics work in harmony with your skin. Infusing 3 powerful aquatic ingredients;
L. Ochroleuca, a golden algae from the Celtic Ocean ( Restructuring and Firming )
A. Flos Aquae, a blue algae from Klamath Lake U.S.A ( Regenerating )
Thermal Plankton from the Hot Springs in France ( Regenerating and Soothing )
They work in perfect synergy to smooth the appearance of wrinkles, reduce dark spots and restore the firmness of the skin.

Clinical results have shown results in 4 weeks, and that the serum could repair up to 8 years worth of accumulated visible damage, from the environment, stress or UV.  This is called "the mask of damage" to which 80% of ageing is accounted for and can be repaired. Only 20% of ageing is inevitable and caused by genes.

The Blue Therapy serum has a opalescence like look, with the golden algae showing though the white concentrated elixir. The smell is also Divine, and I find it rather addictive ( can't stop smelling it ). The smell is the natural aquatic, floral scent, " a life scent".

When I first used this I could feel the firming affect the serum has straight away on my jaw line and cheeks, and a little on the fore head. It almost felt as if I was having a facelift, which was pleasant. I have now used this every day and night for 2 weeks, and so the firming action has faded ( this is mostly properly because I had a little lack of firmness in those areas which have now been corrected ).
I also had what I thought was hormonal spots on my neck/jawline for months and couldn't seem to get rid, but now have totally disappeared! Although I have just hit my 30's, and to be honest, I have been very lucky ( plus been using ageing products for years ) have had hardly any lines to correct. However, were I had lost some firmness on my forehead as I mentioned early, I have noticed my skin is tighter and therefore the line that there from the sagging has gone. My skin tone has actually improved alot too.
I would recommend this to anyone who is a sun worshipper, or sunbedholic, anyone with a lack of firmness, anyone who suffers from dark spots or pigmentation. I would also say this be a great base for those with any of the above and first signs of ageing.

The serum is available in 2 sizes - 30ml @ £38 and 50ml @ £52
A day cream with an SPF15 ( a UVB filter) and a PPD 10 in the normal/combi PPD13 in dry (a  UVA filter ) is also available from £45
Biotherm are in selective Boots Stores around the UK.

For more info on Biotherm and their product range, Including Men's visit:

http://www.biotherm.co.uk

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