Skincare Splurgin'

Having had terrible skin for years I've always been obsessed with skincare, however I'm very fussy with what I use and don't tend to chop and change my skincare products. Recently though, as you can see, I have done some serious skincare purchasing to overhaul my routine (pre spending ban)! It basically started with my skin going through extremes - really oily, to the point where I was using three blotting sheets in one go just to mop up the oil and then on other parts so dry it was showing through my makeup. I also had some awful breakouts on my chin, including some horrible cyst-like ones.

I ordered the Pixi Glow Tonic after seeing it raved about on Caroline Hiron's blog. It's an "oxygenating, exfoliating facial glow tonic" that removes dead cells and helps tone, firm and tighten the skin. I intend to use it instead of an exfoliating scrub; Caroline points out the beads can spread around bacteria on the face, which isn't great when my skin is so breakout prone! I've only just received this so haven't used it yet, but can't wait to. (Just a point that you can't order Pixi Glow Tonic online - I rang up the London store and ordered it over the phone on 0207 287 721.) 

Again influenced by Caroline's blog, I decided to introduce a hydrating toner into my routine to use after cleansing, which should re-balance the skin and aid the absorption of serum/oil. Step in Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic Spritzer! I chose this one as it contains lots of natural ingredients and includes vegetable derived glycerin for moisture, plus it's quick and easy to use. It can also be used over makeup to refresh and revitalise. I'm still making a judgement on this; but my initial thoughts are very positive.

To try and manage my oily skin and breakouts, I purchased the Super Facialist by Una Brennan Tea Flower Mattifying Moisturiser. It contains Salicylic Acid to mattify and balance skin, but also elderflower for added hydration. My skin has definitely been less oily since using this, but it's not a miracle worker and I still need to use blotting sheets. It's also a bit drying on my cheeks, so I've only been using it on my t-zone.

Finally I made two separate purchases from Antipodes - the Divine Face Oil and Aura Manuka Honey Mask. I bought the face oil mainly to target my blemishes and scarring. I've been using it every other day, alternating with my Estee Lauder ANR serum. I've only been using it a week but absolutely love it - it makes my skin looks so healthy, bright and plump! I swear my scarring has slightly improved too. The mask I've used a few times as a hydrating treat - it's especially perfect for those hungover days! It smells absolutely divine. I really should start using it more often and think I will do so in conjunction with my Origins Out of Trouble mask - the double threat facial (I don't have enough for the triple threat!).

What skincare purchases have you made recently? Do you use any of the above products?

Beauty Bird xx