The Daily Grind; My skincare routine.

Hey ladies and gents!

I seriously need to work on sticking to a routine, because this month it seems to just not be happening. I do apologise though and I'll get back into hitting the keyboard every Monday. I can't guarantee which Monday but it'll happen!

My post from last week was a review of Vichy's Aqualia Thermal Serum and Eye Balm. To summarise; I adore both. If you want to know a little bit more about these products and find out more about my skin type you can check out that post here.

For those who don't know, my skin is oily but prone to dehydration. This lead to a lot of confusion as to what kind of treatment my skin needed and a lot of trial and error with products. Thanks be to Jaysus I've nailed down what seems to be a solid and dependable routine that keeps my skin in check. During these summer months I can't quite get the oiliness under wraps but sure look! It's better than what it was.

For today's post I'll be breaking down each step in my routine and letting you know what I use and why I like it. Fair warning, this routine is beefed up with a good bit of Clinique (you know what they say, if it ain't broke...) but you can totally find similar products from different brands. Have a nosy online on places like Paula's Choice for some alternative ideas for your own skin.

Anyway, on with the show!

Make Up Removers.

Removing your make up and cleaning your skin are two different steps. The first (naturally enough) will only remove the product and oil from the surface, but won't clean the skin itself. I like to use dual phase removers for my eyes as the oil breaks product down really well. I use a ton of slap in the eye area so I use No. 7's Beautiful Skin Eye Make Up Remover. Shake it up, whack a bit on a cotton pad and you're good to go. I think it's €11, so keep your eye out for 3 for 2 offers and the like. They're so handy to have!

Clinique's Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil is amazing. It contains no actual oil (sounds weird but it works) so it emulsifies when introduced to water. This turns into a milk after it dissolves even the heaviest of foundation and rinses away. There is literally zero residue left behind after this cleanser. As it turns to a milk I never use this around my eyes. I made that mistake once. It got into them and my vision turned snow white. I thought I was Halle Berry in X-Men for a hot minute. I won't be doing it again.

Cleanser.

My weapon of choice for cleaning my skin is Clinique's Liquid Facial Soap in the Extra Mild formula. It's a soft gel that doesn't lather, so I generally apply it to dry skin. I use my hands to gently massage it into my skin and then rinse away with a warm flannel. It does the job of cleaning excess oil from my skin without foaming and drying it out. As someone who suffers from dehydration that part is kind of essential. 

I personally don't use a cleanser to treat any problems in the skin. That part comes in the next couple of stages. This section is literally removing the dirt and oil so that the products I put on top can get to work. 

"Toners" or Liquid Exfoliators.

Did you know that exfoliating in a liquid form was even a thing? I didn't. I'm glad I do now.

Liquid exfoliators contain low levels of skin friendly acids that break down dead skin and can work inside the pores to gently clear blemishes and refine pores. 

These products replace traditional toners. Seeing as I clean my cleanser off with water I don't need to use a product to take off any remaining product. What a product like this will do is help to remove any lingering dead skin and actively work to clean and repair the skin on a deeper level. Doing this will allow your moisturisers and serums to really get to work instead of being absorbed by useless skin cells. I use two liquid exfoliants from Clinique as pictured above.

The first is the Clarifying Lotion in Mild. This contains salicylic acid which is great for clearing blocked pores. As I'm a boy I shave quite regularly. I'm prone to ingrown hairs and small breakouts in the beard region so this helps to keep them in check. It also contains no alcohol so it doesn't do that drying thing that I don't like. 

Clarifying Lotion number 2 from Clinique is a bit stronger. This one does contain alcohol and also witch hazel. Both are brilliant for giving my skin a kick start if it's feeling sluggish or particularly spotty. I use this after I take off a lot of make up or if I've been to the gym and my face is looking swamped under sweat and sebum. I don't use this as often because of the alcohol content.

It's worth mentioning that Clinique do a range of Clarifying lotions so they're worth looking into as each one works differently. Introducing this step to my routine literally saved my skin. I can't promise, but I'm certain you will love it.

Serum.

This step is my favourite! I look for a lightweight serum that contains ingredients that will help to flood my skin with water and keep it nice and comfortable. I find that if I do this, I'm less likely to see heavy oil production in my skin. This is because it's not working so hard to combat a lack of water. 

Serums are designated products to treat any prominent skin concerns. Their ingredients tend to be more active and will work better for combating the designated issue. 

Aqualia Thermal contains glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. Both are ingredients to trap water in the skin so naturally I'm all about this baby. I won't go into too much detail as I have a post on this linked above, so if you like the sound of this be sure to check that one out! 

Moisturiser and Eye Cream.

Last but not least! After I've cleaned and clarified my skin and followed up with a serum I pop a moisturiser and eye cream on top. If you think about it; a serum will treat a skin condition while the moisturiser and eye cream will take care of the surface skin and keep it protected and nourished. 

I use Vichy Aqualia Thermal Awakening Eye Balm (ignore the name, I use it at night as well) around the eyes. Again, the post on this chap is linked above so more detail can be found there. Suffice it to say it's a lightweight gel product packed with the same ingredients as the serum. It stops my under eye area looking tired and dry, so I love it. 

My moisturiser of choice at the moment is Moisture Surge from Clinique. I adore this stuff. Given the name I thought I'd run a mile. It's actually a thick gel consistency, so it's not heavy with oil and emollients. What it does do is give the skin what actually feels like a drink of water. It's rich and luxurious enough for me to enjoy putting on, but full of all the right things so it doesn't break me out. I feel like Joan Collins at a vanity mirror even if I'm throwing it at myself at the end of the day and hanging onto the skin so I don't collapse where I stand. 

I've used the Dramatically Different gel from Clinique also. I like both, but I prefer Moisture Surge for the time being. 

After all of that lengthy procedure I either put on make up and head out or dive head first into bed. I know that some of you will be looking at the steps involved and think that I'm an absolute weirdo with more time than sense. You're actually right, but I can genuinely say that since I listened to my skin and started to take care of it properly the difference has been outstanding. 

I know I use a lot of products from one brand in particular. This is because I find that their products really work for me, but that might not be the case for everyone. Take a look at each step and have a look around for appropriate products to add to your routine. You can absolutely find more affordable versions of each step. I know I probably should, but I'm a greedy guts. 

Now that I've discussed how I clean my skin I better get back to make up babble. I'm planning on bringing you a foundation review next week so definitely stay tuned for that! It's one I've been coveting for ages so I'm very excited to put pen to paper.

As always, throw any questions or comments down below. We looove them! Our social media links are at the top of the blog so if you have a very pressing question to ask then those are your best bet!

Until next time,

J x

Product Review; Vichy Aqualia Thermal.

Good evening!

I can't actually describe how excited I am to be bringing you this review. I'm a little bit worried that it's a Friday night and I'm more excited to talk about a facial serum than throw on clean jeans and go out. That being said, the money most people spend on a good session I plug into skincare. No hangover, and a cleansing routine so regimental and steadfast that any neat freak would experience nirvana. It's not all bad.

I've been on a bit of a skincare crusade for the last while, as my skin is temperamental at the best times. I have oily skin that's prone to dehydration, which can cause havoc. My main issue was always either loading my skin with products that were too heavy or not adding enough water back to my skin. Both scenarios had desperate consequences. Skip through many years of stressed teenage skin (can you imagine?! My face was in the horrors) to my discovery of liquid exfoliation, hyaluronic acid, and gel moisturisers. My skin is by no means heavenly but I know enough to manage it at this stage. Big thanks to Caroline Hirons' blog and our very own Susan for giving me advice along the way. My face thanks you both.

This week I added to my collection. I've been trialling Vichy Aqualia Thermal Serum and Awakening Eye Balm for the last few days. I got about three uses out of each product before I was itching to rave about them. I discovered the serum online (big kudos to the Hirons and Sali Hughes) and it ticked all the proverbial boxes for me. Lightweight, but packed with skin loving and water infusing ingredients. In my hunt for it I also came across the eye balm which I promptly snapped up to go with it. I've been indulging ever since.

I'm going to do this review in two parts, and give an overall verdict. This way I can give the most information on each product, but keep it all as organised and understandable as possible.

The Serum. 

What is it?
A fluid product designed to soothe sensitive and dehydrated skin. As a serum, this is applied your moisturiser.

How does it work? 
Aqualia Thermal has glycerin and hyaluronic acid derivatives inside. Glycerin attracts moisture to the skin, while hyaluronic acid can hold a dense amount of water and store it. Together these flood the skin with water instead of oil to relieve dehydration without weighing the skin down with oil.

How does it feel?
Amazing, really refreshing. A little goes a long way with this. My skin feels so comfortable since I've started using these. There's no tight, drawn feeling after cleansing. It doesn't soak in ridiculously fast either so I never feel like I have to load more product on to get the full effect. A couple of pumps should be enough for the entire face.

The Eye Balm.

What is it?
A "balm" to combat dehydration around the eye area. I would call this a gel, to be honest. Either way it's a moisturising product for the eye that promises to reduce the signs of dehydration and soothe the delicate skin in that region. The title says "Awakening" but I use it morning and evening.

How does it work?
This product contains the same hydrating ingredients as the facial serum, and also caffeine. Given that this combats a lack of water in the skin I'm glad to see these ingredients here. If budget is an issue, you can totally use the serum around the eye. I've tried both, both ways work fine, I just like the richer texture of the gel around the eye. Caffeine? You could leave it to be honest.

How does it feel? 
Once again, this feels lovely. Because it's a thicker consistency it does take longer to soak in, but it feel nice and soothing. I use a lot of eye make up when I trowel on the war paint, so the removal can get a bit heavy duty. This was a pleasure to pop on after a serious strip down, with a slight cooling feeling.

The Overall Verdict. 

I'm sold on these guys. With the Serum clocking in at €22.49 and the Eye Balm at €19.90 (both from Boots) I can't complain. As I mentioned, both contain the same ingredients to boost water levels in the skin so if money is an issue I'd grab the serum and just use it around the eye.
As someone with an oily skin finding something to hydrate without heaviness has been a bit of a task. My skin reacts quite quickly to anything weighing it down, but this has been a delight.
Anyone with a drier skin, this is worth checking out. If your skin feels tight or tender it could be a lack of water as well as oil. Tackling one will help you cope with the other.

And that, lads and lassies, is that. I've just used these after a shower, and I'm still stuck in the novelty like a child at Christmas. I kind of want to clean my face again just to have another go. I won't though, they're too precious to waste!

Next week I'll be posting a full skincare routine and what I use at each step, so keep an eye out for that.

Until next time,
J x

The BIG Day!

Aloha,

Jamie will be back with you on Wednesday so today you have me (Susan) instead! Wedding season is well and truly in full swing and if your getting married well than lucky you....I'm gonna be giving you my best tips on the vital last minute things that will get you ready for the big day.

Preparation is key. You want to be looking your best on your big day so ideally you will have had been on a strict skincare routine in the run up to the wedding. Cleanser, toner, serum, moisturiser, eye cream and SPF are the essentials. A week before your wedding scrub your skin to remove any dead cells that could hamper your makeup....from then on out you need to be on your best behaviour to prevent break outs....no picking....plenty of water and most of all try control your diet! Much easier said than done when its a very stressful time. If you are unsure of what skincare to be using, I would recommend visiting a spa and having a facial or alternatively go to a beauty counter that is geared towards skin and speak to an experienced consultant. Do your research online (more on that later).

Last minute prep on the big day before your makeup artist arrives is very fuss free. Use a lip scrub (Lush is my fave) and apply a balm afterwards to hydrate lips as we want that pout perfect especially if your going for a stronger colour like reds. You probably searched high and low for your makeup artist and without a doubt he/she is the bees knees but there is a few things that are essential to your wedding makeup that you definitely want to make sure are included. Primer is key to making sure your makeup lasts all day and prevents oil so you don't look shiny in your photographs. Avoid SPF at all costs as it can flash back in photography and give you the white face and tanned body look...not good. Eye primer is also essential to the longevity of your makeup, it will prevent shadows from creasing and will make colours appear much brighter. Ask your MUA to set your makeup with a setting spray rather than a powder and that way if all else fails you know you have something to fall back on (trust Urban Decay on this one) and your skin won't look overly dry or cake-y.

Not neglecting your body, make sure to scrub your skin once/twice a week to make sure it is in super condition if you decide to wear false tan. Add a moisturiser afterwards as this will prevent the tan from sticking to dry patches. 

Weddings can be super expensive but they can also be a learning curve when it comes to skincare and makeup. If you know your getting married in a year or twos time why not ask family and friends for your birthday, Christmas, anniversary etc to receive vouchers instead of gifts. And then when you have had your makeup trial you have the money there to buy all the bits'n'bobs you've seen a professional use and you can learn a few tips along the way on how to use them. 

So I think I have waffled enough so I'm gonna leave it there for now but I will come back to this topic at a later stage to tell you my top secret, tried and true best skincare products to get your skin in perfect nick for your big day! 

Love,

S

Looking after the skin you're in.

Good morning!

I'm having a balanced breakfast of coffee and Netflix, how you doin'?! I know I'm a day early but tomorrow (June 1st) I'll be doing the VHI Mini Marathon for charity with the lovely ladies I work with so I decided to check in with you guys while I have a free day on my hands.

While we were preparing and making lists of essentials (a hoody just in case, a change of clothes for after, wine, etc...) of course the topic of SPF came up. Being outside in the elements for 10K poses a certain level of risk. Naturally we have all bases covered by now with weatherproof clothing and SPF Factor 50 all in the one bag (I won't mention the dreaded Irish climate), but it's nice to be careful.

All of this got me thinking about taking care of your skin in general. I'll be doing an in depth post on my actual skin care routine and the products that I love soon enough. For now I've compiled a list of tips and tricks that I find make a huge difference to my skin and how it looks. Some might be obvious, but maybe one or two might be new to you and you can hopefully incorporate them from here on out. Read on and see!

Review your skin care routine every 6 months;
Just like the whole winter vs. summer wardrobe routine, your skin care should go through a little editing process every 6 months or so. Whether it just be adding something moisturising in the winter or changing your SPF level in summer, your skin will need to little bit of TLC once the temperature gauge takes a large swing in either direction. The changes don't have to be massive and you certainly don't have to spend a whole lot of money, but doing a little de-cluttering and freshening up will do your skin the world of good.

Don't forget your body;
I'm a demon for doing this. I'll go weeks without so much as a lick of lotion on my knees or elbows and I'll be howling! Wearing skinnies for prolonged periods of time when you should have slapped E45 onto your legs is punishment in itself. Take it from me, I use the exfoliating side of a sponge once a week from the neck down and use a generic body lotion to keep my skin in check. I find this helps prevent blemishes down onto the neck and chest as well. Bonus! Obviously if you have drier skin on your body or a skin condition, please be careful with the scrubbing part.

Diet;
You all know what's coming. I starts with W- and ends in -ater. There's that, and also making sure that you get decent vitamins and good food into you. You'll have more energy and appear more vibrant all around, as well as giving your skin a little boost. At the start of this year I made a major change in my diet and started a fitness routine. My skin has thanked me for it, which is a nice side effect! If that's not your cup of tea, try to include a multivitamin with breakfast as an added boost!

Sleep with your hair away from your face;
Sebum secretes onto the skin and also onto the hair. Therefore sebum is just hitching a ride along your hair shafts in between washes. If you're sleeping with your hair in your face, the oil is more likely to transfer onto your skin. I'm sure you've guessed it, but introducing excess sebum back to your skin after cleaning it isn't beneficial. Get yourself a nice lil' girlo bun on the top of your head before you settle down for fourty winks and you be grand!

Change your bedding frequently; 
This ties into the previous tip. During the night your skin will produce oil and shed dead skin cells. I know it sounds gross but it's harmless and a natural procedure for the skin to go through! However, the longer you sleep on the same bedding the more build up that will be there. I personally flip my pillows each night so that I'm sleeping on each surface as few times as possible. This will help prevent a build up on one surface. I know we're all fabulously clean and hygienic anyway, but it doesn't hurt to get into a routine.

Don't be digging in your pores;
I'm going to sound like someone's mam but leave your face alone! I'm so guilty of this, I know there's nothing more satisfying than getting rid of a nasty white head but you'll do damage. Squeezing too hard can drive the blockage deeper into the skin and damage the pore even further. It will take longer for your blemishes to heal, and there's a chance you'll leave permanent marks. If I can try, you can try!

I know a fair few of these are generic enough but you'd be surprised the differences that can be made! As I mentioned I'll be putting together a proper skin care routine post, including reviews of some products I've been quite liking. Until then I'll be incorporating the above as much as possible!

Here's hoping we're all glowing and gorgeous for this summer,
Until next time,
J x