REN - Hot cloth cleanser and flash facial testers

http://www.renskincare.com

So REN is a brand I have used before, with starter kit of mixed products to try. I fell in love with the serum/gel formulas, they are so cooling and refreshing. I was kindly also sent 2 sachets of the new "flash facial, 1 minute rinse" to see if I would like it. 

Hot cloth cleanser review 

They say ; 

Includes complimentary stay-warm cloth. A rich two-phase cleanser that purifies, decongests, gently exfoliates and removes all make-up. It leaves skin refreshed, radiant, smoothed and replenished without dryness or tightness.

Results

• Cleanses, purifies, smoothes, decongests and removes make up.
• Skin feels refreshed, soft and radiant.
• Skin feels softer, firmer, smoother.
• Skin is never dry or tight.

Includes ;

• Vitamin P from Rosa Centifolia protects the capillary venous system to decongest and soothe
• Triglycerides from Cocoa Seed Butter improve the skin barrier functions against moisture loss
• Rosa Damascena from Damask Rose Petals relieves and soothes skin

 I was intrigued by the sound of a hot cloth cleanser, as I do love to have some time to relax and unwind. Also opening the pores  to deep cleanse, in simple quick steps. So I applied one pump which is the amount above to my face, massaging this into my skin. Then you use the cloth with warm water to gently open the pores. I had the cloth over my face just relaxing, then I removed the cleanser with the cloth. This cloth also acts as an exfoliator to remove dead skin.You rinse with cool water to close the pores. 

It's exceptional for anyone whom likes a deep cleanse but naturally. As I do worry that I'm not removing all my makeup. I haven't ever broken out from REN products. The smell afterwards is so fresh and light on the skin. Really do enjoy using this product. Just the cloth alone feels soothing to the skin. Its the perfect relaxing treatment for anyone's skincare routine. I'm thoroughly enjoying this treatment so much. Also the cloth is the softest cloth I've ever used on my skin, I hope they are sold singularly. 

V-Cense flash rinse review  (2 sachet first impressions) 

So I was sent 2 sachets to try and get a first impression. 

They say ; 

All products within REN’s new V-Cense range utilise boswellia carterii, extracted from luxurious frankincense oil, which relaxes the micro-contractions of the facial tissue, helping to smooth lines and minimise the signs of premature ageing.

Discover a high-perfomance complexion boost that lasts 72 hours with the V-Cense Flash Rinse 1 Minute Facial! A transformative gel-rinse that instantly revitalises and visibly rejuvenates the skin. Formulated with water activated Vitamin C, it neutralises, removes blackheads and dead skin cells to reveal a firm, toned and smooth complexion.

I really enjoyed these sachets that I'm considering purchasing a full size on release. It's a quick facial which is perfect for the morning. As it takes me forever to wake and feel alive, this 1 minute facial will just perk you up. Basically a gel consistency you massage into the face, then add a little water to your hands to activate the facial. Then rinse off with cool water and your complete. It leaves the skin feeling refreshed and flake free, for application of makeup. I was really impressed and think its a perfect morning start for the face. It's my dream morning facial. Removing the heavy feeling from a nights sleep to leave skin feeling so clean and perked up. 

I can't thank REN enough to allow me to sample these new and exciting products. I usually keep to brands, that I don't break out from. The hot cloth cleanser is a really impressive, a lovely addition to anyone's skincare regime. The flash facial is brilliant for perking you up in the morning. They have introduced exceptional products to boost the skin. 

HealGel - Face

HealGel Website

So the lovely people from HealGel sent me a bottle of there Face Serum for review. HealGel was compleatly new to me until I saw a review on Pixiwoo. Highly recommended to dry skins when the weather goes cold and most damage is done. It will benefit everyone whom uses it, even after a facial it's the ideal way to get moisture in to the skin. 

They say

-- HealGel Face is an exceptional anti-ageing formula designed to smooth, firm and replenish to give instantly plumper, revitalised looking skin.

 -- This step-changing complex acts like HealGel Intensive to rescue unhappy skin, but then takes its transformative effect to the next level.  Arnica and Madecassoside are suspended in liposomes with powerful peptides and biodynes to initiate a uniquely soothing and collagen boosting process.  HealGel Face also contains a unique blend of Omega Oils to replenish dehydrated skin and restore elasticity.  To this another vital dimension is added; a powerful three part hyaluronic acid complex provides a plumping and tightening effect. 

All the HealGel products ive found are light weight, very quickly absorbed into the skin plus lightly scented with natural oils. There is a slight difference with this formula as it's a mix of gel with a cream. It looks like a cream but spreads like a serum. I had worried, as I do love the other products so much because of there gel forumla. However this does not disappoint and I used this regularly. I admit I was glad it was in my bag when I was in hospital. My skin and winter do not mix and dryness is my main enemy. 

So one pump is sufficient to apply to all areas of the face. As it's being massaged into the skin, the warmth makes it disperse with ease. To say that HealGel has compleatly given me confidence, in my winter skin is an understatement. If you suffer dry patches in areas that can be stubborn, then this may assist you. It's quite an investment but I will be saving to repurchase when I can, as I have total faith in the products. 

It lasts a long time (obviously dependent on your use) when used in the morning and evening. The smell for a natural product is not overpowering and disperses quickly. The only scent left was reminant on my hands after I massaged it into my face. I would advise a good massage into the skin, really reach those areas that the may get missed. Especially area's round the nose, cheeks,

corners of the lips and by the ears. 

With the plumping aspect of the product this defiantly does become noticeable. Now I can't say if its because I massage in the evening with it and just apply in the morning. However I've noticed that my skin has been complimented vastly. My main area I noticed was my mouth, now I was very aware of fine lines forming. I had so much trouble with lipsticks beginning to bleed, now they dont do this as before. So if that's down to my hydration being optimised, or my skin improving then another bonus. 

HealGel without a doubt is my holy grail product now and yes price wise it's higher end. However if you could afford one then in a quick run down, they all offer hydration but additional benfits of ; 

  -Intensive intense hydrator & restore

  -Face offers anti-aging & plumping 

   -Eye will rejuvenate & awaken 

 So in my opinion which ever suits your need then its a worthwhile product to have. I know I will have to save for my next purchase, as I really want to have intensive in my daily regime.

So thank you HealGel for introducing me to your products this year. I've felt like this winter has been my most confident within my skin. So it's priceless when you feel that way, against the cost of the actual product. 

Wishing all the staff at HealGel an amazing Christmas and New year. 

HealGel website

Have you tried HealGel ? 

Amie - New leaf exfoliating polish

Another lovely offering from Amie, this is a gentle and natural scrub. Suitable for all skin-types. 

They say - 

Aime's carefully-edited collection of natural beauty essentials work hard and deliver visible results, and the range is particularly great for temperamental, unbalanced and sensitive skin. Specially formulated to work in complete harmony with your skin to keep it clear, soft and radiant, let Amie help you beat troublesome blemish-prone skin, and control oiliness and breakouts with its hard-working collection of natural sebum regulators and anti-bacterials.

 A good way to reduce the appearance of blackheads is by daily washing or cleansing. Using a good exfoliator, such as New Leaf, to unclog pores and deep cleansing skin once or twice a week also helps. I highly recommend including an exfoliator to your skincare regieme.

So it arrived as all Amie skin care comes in a lovely pastel pink wrapped package.

Inside it comes with information on the range for the whole series and I haven't been disappointed as yet with one product. Its an affordable skincare regieme for anyone to start with young or old. It's natural and essential ingredients to ensure your skin is protected and hydrated.

So this scrub is a lovely gentle exfoliate that I use when I have a break from using  my clarisonic. I do not use my clarisonic daily as it can break me out with over use. So I like to use a gentle scrub to clean my face in the morning, as I really do need to feel like my face is really cleaned and exfoliated before my makeup routine.

  If I use this in the morning or evening to really feel fresh and clean, plus if I have missed any areas with my cleansing wipes the night before. It's a perfect first time scrub if your looking for a gentle exfoliator. 

It smells amazing and its mango seed little beeds mixed with the orange fresh smell, it just makes you want to use it as a body scrub .I'm addicted to it and  I think it's a fantastic product. It does same as the more expensive scrubs and offers the same quality. I'm amazed how much I love Amie's contributions, as scrubs usually can have me in agony as they are too harsh and abrasive etc. 

 As you can see below on my hand how it comes out of the tube and then thinned down when it's had water added . The mini orange beads are adorable and just with the orangey smell, makes this product a very well thought of, cohesive product. Its such value for money and i would recommend this to all whom are looking for a brand on a budget but also offers quality. 

I'm  so impressed and cannot thank Amie enough for introducing me to there fantastic line of products.

Amie website

This Amie gift bag will be a definite on my list to purchase for a few of my nearest and dearest. Plus it's amazing value. 

Amie - Purifying facial wash

Ok so I recently reviewed the Amie matte moisturiser and loved it, so much its now in my empties bin. So in mentioning this amazing sun but wow does it leave you feeling clogged and dry skinned in the evening and morning after sleep. If your lucky to get some. I might add, I was kindly and I'm so grateful to be asked to review the facial wash. Being a natural company with no addition of parabens, additives and mineral oils. Amie Skincare is great for anyone watching what they use on there skin or of delicate and sensitive skin types.

They say

Created by leading beauty expert and ex-Estée Lauder executive, Fiona Parkhouse, Amie was originally conceived as the ideal skincare solution for her own daughter, Samantha. Samantha was experiencing the extra-oiliness and breakouts of her teenage years but her skin was also very sensitive.  Fiona did not want her to use products that were too harsh or aggressive for her young skin as she felt that these products can cause more problems in the long run than they solve: for example, skin can feel dry and stripped, itchy, sensitised and can also lead to the over-production of oil and more spots, not fewer !

Working with leading dermatologist, Dr Susan Mayou of London Cadogan Clinic, Fiona created an effective natural solution that really works. “natural, non-irritating ingredients are important in skincare” Dr Susan Mayou, leading dermatologist.

The Amie - Morning clear purifying facial wash

96.8% natural ingredients

So the Facial wash comes in the same packaging as all Amie skincare. Lovely pastel pink tube with the well known Amie logo simple flower. It contains 150mls and you do not need alot at all to clean the face and I also use this for my neck area. Its great for my days off with my clarisonic or in duo with it. Very soft facial wash I really enjoy using. With a soap free formula its a creamy wash texture that you can move quite easily and massage as you please into the skin. Now I use this after I use my wipes if I use makeup to just get the residual dirt off. I now and again feel a tiny bit of a sugar which is one of the ingredients. Its not a scrub so literally it is a one in a rare occurrence, you may feel a grain. 

Smells floral but not overwhelming, with mayblossom and elderflower plus an orange blossom and raspberry to tone. The smell stays with you as a lovely base scent. I really like this and don't usually go for floral scents so this is just on the right amount. As you can see the facial wash is thick to start with in consistency, then on addition of water will go very light, easy to massage, easy to use wash. 

I really like this facial wash and think its perfect for anyone wanting natural produce, sensitive skin or anyone needing a light wash when suffering from any form of facial acne or complaint. Also as mayflower and elderflower are natural pore decongestants it should aid in the prevention of spots forming. Also because of the lack of soap you can insure that the skin won't become dried out and stripped of any natural moisture. Just what kind of facial wash you need in this amazing summer heat. 

Amazing part of the Natural Amie skincare range. Thank you Amie skincare.

Amie website

Vivo cosmetics

So there is no surprise that its budget July. I love my cosmetics so much that I go a tad crazy and yes I know its 50% at the minute so I'm trying to be good but nope I can't stay away.  I was kindly sent some products to review by Vivo and oddly my friend had sent me 3 she saw in Tesco ,she thought I would like so I was over the moon. I really think I've stumbled onto a new favourite brand. Plus affordable and high quality. 

So I was really kindly sent these products and I'm so impressed that I really am wondering why do I crave high end so much ? Yes high end packaging will suck you in but really with even myself budgeting, why not have one treat and get a few items of quality from vivo. The Baked blush is lovely in a cinnamon glow with hints of peachy pink and golden tones. I love that you can use these blushes to give a light hint of glow or built to a real standout colour.  Lovely for the summer and a natural look. Pigment is fantastic and offers a lovely alternative to Skin-finish. Im defiantly going to be getting all of these when they are back in stock.

Then the "Show me the money palette" wow, pigmented and applies buttery with little fallout. They are online for £1.99 at the minute and i would purchase them all and now I'm kicking myself i didn't get the enchanted when i ordered the Artist palette. As the looks you can create with such pigmented and lovely colours is wonderful, they are shimmery but blend well together, the quick look i did below was simply using the pinks of the palette.Yet they merge into a beautiful look. Brilliant for any budget. 

I was sent there bronzer in Golden days. Firstly "OMG how big is this bronzer?" Perfect for holiday to use as a body bronzer but also to give that healthy glow you wish to have. I would also use this to give any if my powder products a bit of a lift, if I wanted to make a matte product have a little sparkle then a touch of this would help give a little definition. Its well worth the £4 price tag and its 50% off at the minute. 

Defiantly a product that can be built upon but so big I wouldn't carry this in my purse. However the baked bronzers are and offer just as much pigment, plus I have heard them being compared to skin finish by mac and honestly they are soft, give a great colour finish and look amazing. I would buy these now as they give the same effect. I'm now thinking save your money tara, buy vivo which is just as good, offers a great range of colour and feels good on the skin too. 

Look i created with the show me the money palette

Now my friend sent me a bronzer, blush and eyeshadow. Which have been her favourites and then another friend said try the duo blush and highlight as she had said these were her monthly favourites. So I saw the pigment in the eyeshadow and was over whelmed by how beautiful it was. This just screamed look-book to me.  So with the bronzer and blush swatches I had been wanting to use my collection. When my Artist palette arrives i will be doing more of a look as it has facial powder inside as well as a more neutral base of colour i would use. So we will be seeing more of Vivo over the month of July. Below is the sun kiss baked bronzer she sent me. 

If your on a tight budget or you want to save up but need a monthly fix of some makeup like me then take a look at Vivo. You won't be disappointed. Im actually kicking myself that i didn't order more then the artist palette as i should have ordered the eyeliners and other palettes to do looks with. However deals always come around and i will be grabbing the facial products next time. 

However for now if you haven't picked up anything in the 50% sale ... what are you waiting for ?

Vivo Cosmetics Website

Blank et blanc - Mycrolator skin device

So luxury treatments are all new to me as I really don't have the budget for them and nor can i leave my house. So when I was asked to trial a new home based Mycrolator system I was really over the moon to see if these work.  I was very intrigued to read more on how this system works and what qualities the oils contain to make them so special and effective. Plus its all natural ingredients and the unit sterile to medical standard.

This is what they say

BLACK ET BLANC® provides premium luxury skincare solutions for the global aesthetic market, focusing on unique devices such as our MYCROLATOR® Skin Prep device which is specifically designed for use with our range of filtered natural oil serum formulations. We also offer a number of advanced scientifically developed and tested skin creams to cater for all skin types. Our brand - BLACK ET BLANC® is part of Black & White Healthcare Ltd, a UK-based company dedicated to developing premium luxury formulations and devices for skincare. All our products have been developed at our own laboratories to provide unique, effective products for both men and women. BLACK ET BLANC® have a number of unique skincare products in the pipeline due for launch in 2013. We continuously strive to create the best of skincare products, through our in-house research and development activities.

I picked a oil for dry skin to trial and they also sent a mature vial oil (Filtered facial oils choices), for some of my lines and feathering I'm getting with old age setting in. Very grateful to them.  So the package was a black box with a almost leather effect and embossed company logo. Very classic and chic, as we all known i love chic and also find less is more. Plus it does make it look a high end product as why go overboard rather then let the product speak for itself.  I know I like pretty packaging but for a professional treatment I do think that simplistic is better as you run the risk if it becoming gimmicky. I really like the fact they included a in-depth and really informative booklet, which explains the reason for the oils and production of them plus the Mycrolator units design and purpose.

 Also a set of instructions that come within this system are clearly set out on its use, plus how to maintain and keep this sterile for future uses. So you firstly prep the skin by washing and drying, then using the end with the small needles press them lightly to the area and do not drag. It's a press, lift then move motion. When this is done use some of your preferred oil to tap into this area. (I found the grey stopper in the cap came away so rather then use my finger and contaminate, I used this to stick in the top quick tip then I used the stopped to dab the oil in) I do have sanitisers so I did wipe before replacing to prevent nasties from multiplying. The rinse the unit and contain, this ensures a good 6-8 uses from one sterile unit. Plus no sharps bins are needed, but i would when I'm finished with this unit -wrapping well and sealing then putting in the box to dispose of. I couldn't see if it said to return to the company and i will ask this then get back to you for an update.

So I've used this twice a week (as stated 2 or 3 times on the website) and I can say the oil does absorb so well and not greasy. It doesn't break the skin as the needle is not even noticeable. My right cheek is worse then the left and its kind of shocked me how well it is doing as its not dry, makeup application is easier as I'm not as self conscious about flaking as there's nothing to flake. I'm sure the pricking the skin first help with the product really targeting those cells needing some boosting. Plus ensuring my skin routines are absorbing better then without this addition. You may ask well does it hurt and simple answer is no, the needle is barely noticeable to the naked eye. Also you may say well I have oily skin how will this help me, there is loads of combinations of oils for specific skin types and if worried then seek some professional advice first off your doctor to see if you can use this or its a actual medical problem. If its just a skin type issue then consult the staff at Black et Blanc to talk to a friendly advisor.

Step by step application 

Do not use on broken skin, acne and all forms of skin problems. See this is why I love summer as the problem of dry skin diminishes (Due to my vitamin D levels being low and anaemia winter means my immune system dives and i become dry as a desert) going back to its normal singing self. Its a little pricey but there is alot of oil here. Perfect for people like me whom cannot go to spa's or leave the home as with some candles and music playing this sent me to sleep pretty quick. Ive noticed the dry areas have improved and I'm not conscious of potential flakes in these places now, plus my foundation looks more flawless and lessened the application time. I love it however the only downfall is i personally cannot afford the bigger system but if you can afford it the I would check them out or a local stockist.

A full set of 16 vials with 2 Mycrolator plus the cleansing system to sterilise is : £97.50

The mini kit with 3 vials and a Mycrolator (storage jar also included) is : £39.00

They also do a set of creams to use.

Black et blanc website or email for a stockist sales@blacketblanc.com

*I am not affiliated in anyway and was happy with the mini kit to review*