Sheet masks under £5 any good?

by lovesandluxuriesJuly 5, 2017

As always when you walk into a drugstore/department store your overwhelmed by the choice. It becomes hard to make a decision as they all promise to.. well they all promise the same thing don’t they. Unless you know exactly what your looking for it becomes a long task. Reading the same thing over and over again while your other half stands next to you waiting for you to make a decision… The pressure!!

Sheet masks originated in Asia and have become popular in all cosmetics/department stores. Cloth /paper is soaked in a serum or cream and is individually wrapped. You apply to face for 15-20 min and take off. No rinsing or applying moisturiser after. Quick and effective.

I am obsessed with skincare so , ive tried a few. some ive loved and some have been a waste of time so I have done a little review of a few all under a fiver

YesTo

Detoxifying Charcoal Paper mask
£2.99
1 use sheet mask
I have used some of the yesto range before. The brand promises they use a minimum of 95% natural ingredients without silicones SLS and Parabans. To read some more about the other YesTo products I used click here.
The charcoal based sheet mask promises to detoxify and clean pores.

As with all types of face mask they need to be applied to make up free, clean dry skin. I used this mask in the evening, before bed.

It was soaked in product and stuck to my face nicely, enough so I could walk around without it slipping off. It does warn on the packaging it will tingle, if its too much take it off. left it on about 15 mins, I didn’t notice any tingling.
After I took the mask off I massaged the left over product in, as you do with all sheet masks. If I am honest, I wasn’t expecting much of a difference but, WOW I was wrong.
My skin looked amazing after. More hydrated, toned and clearer.
The next morning my make up went on smoother which made it last a little longer while complexion stayed clear and bright. I also noticed I used less foundation then I would usually.

Overall I love this mask. As part of a weekly facial or before you put your make up on. After using this mask I wouldn’t use a heavy coverage foundation. L’oreal Nude Magique Cushion was perfect. Enough coverage with a dewy finish. Together making my skin look smooth, clear and hydrated. For £2.99 its cheap enough to be able to use once a week/couple of weeks. Without a doubt something i will use again

While on the subject of Yesto…

Buh Bye Dark Circles Under Eye Mask

£4.99

As I have mentioned before I have used a few of YesTo products. If you have already seen my Yes To – Product Review you will know what I think of these. And it was not good. A waste of money as far as im concerned. The under eye masks were so dry I couldn’t get them to stick. I got so frustrated with them they went in the bin. If you have tried these let me know what you think. Did I just so happen to get a dodgy one?? -Really dont like this product.

Sephora Collection Sheet Mask

About £5
There are 8 different collection masks available. Each mask has an exotic active ingredient with different skin care benefits. Without Parabans and another company who proudly don’t test on animals.
My favourite 2 are the Pearl and Rose sheet masks.
They promises to perfect and brighten creating a high luminosity and visibaly minimised irregularities.

I love the Sephora masks. They are drenched in product and stay on great. After the recommended time my skin looks clear, smooth and hydrated. Again they are great under make up. The luminosity is not masked by make up. It just gives a lovely dewy finish. Which, is always perfect in the summer to get the goddess glow. Like the YesTo mask I prefer the l’oreal lighter coverage over these masks. As they even my skin so well I dont need a heavier coverage. I found with the Sephora masks, the results last a couple of days. After ive taken my make up off with facewipes, cleanser and toner my skin still looked hydrated, smooth and glowing. Not as much as when I first used it but it has amazingly lasted longer then other sheet masks I have used. These would also be great if your going away on holiday. After sitting on the beach all day tanning you need to keep your skin hydrated. It will stop you from peeling and will help your tan to last longer. There is enough serum left in the packet to use as a moisturiser for a few days. So you will have beautiful glowing healthy looking skin in the evenings . They are slim light weight packages… A must for holiday

The only thing I don’t like about these masks was that with them being Sephora, you can only get them online. I prefer going into a shop rather then ordering on line.

Boots Ingredients

£2.50

Charcoal & Willow cleansing and Purifying

Just like all the other masks, it was drenched in product. once unwrapped and put on my face it stayed on well. No tingling sensation just refreshing. I’ll be honest this was not as good as the YesTo purifying mask. My skin looked well hydrated but I cant say it was actually clearer. I used the mask after a shower before bed. The next morning it just looked normal. There were dry patches where I usually would have them so it had not hydrated as well as I thought it had.

So this is not a mask i would be buying again. I did pic another sheet mask from this range

Lotus Flower and Tiger lily, For Radiance and Brightening.

I liked this one. I used it after a shower and before I put make up on.

It was nice on, lots of product and refreshing for the morning. After I had taken it off my skin looked great. Bright, even and clear. I used a heavier coverage foundation this time. My skin looked nice, I still used less product as with the other masks. Once my make was done my skin looked healthy and glowing. This mask did not last very long. When I took my make up off it didnt seem as bright or glowing, or the next morning. But they are £2.50!!

Garnier Moisture Bomb Tissue mask

£2.99

Super hydrating, revitalising tissue mask.

So Garnier are promising a weeks worth of hydration with this one. Made with pomegranate, hyaluronic acid and plant serum.

When you take it out the packet it feels a little slimey. I instantly didnt think I would like this one. It stayed on fine and I left it on half hour. Im just not in love with it… I dont think my skin looked amazing after. Not a weeks worth of hydration in one hit. I know its only cheap but there are far better masks to use for the same price. I used the mask before bed, expecting my skin to look great in the morning. And it honestly looked the same as any other morning. Maybe its better to use before you apply make up, like a primer. But I won’t be using it again to find out!

So my overall favourites were the Sephora Masks and the Charcoal based YesTo Mask. I really felt they had made a difference to my skin. I would get them again. Especially the Yes To mask. Easily accessible and cheap.

But let me know if you have tried the YesTo undereye mask. I would love to know what you thought!

Easy Steps To Acne Fighting, Wrinkle Smoothing Facial.

by lovesandluxuriesJanuary 29, 2017

Anyone who has been to salon to have facial knows how amazing they are.If you havn’t had 1 already …YOU NEED TO!! Not only do you come out feeling super relaxed but your skin looks amazing! Its fresher, clearer and glowing. If you have ever had micro-dermabrasion you will totally understand when I say it takes years off! The only problem is, its another expense to add to all the little things we like to treat ourselves to every month. Don’t worry.Its all totally achievable at home. You may have the products or might find them in the kitchen cupboard. I’ve also added my favorite products that are easily accessible if your looking for good products on a budget.

I give my self a facial once a week. It helps to maintain a healthy glowing complexion and will ease acne. It will also alleviate the tension build up which can help to cause fine lines and wrinkles. However, it can also have a negative effect if you do them to often. Stripping the natural oils from your skin can increase sebum production and dehydrate your skin. Dehydrated skin can be itchy and can cause problems when applying make up.

So firstly, you need to remove all your make up. I would use a face wipe then use the wash to ensure all oil and make up remover residue is not sitting on the surface of you skin.

.Facial Wash/Cleanser

Boots Tea Tree and Witch HazelFoam Face Wash

I’ve been using this face wash a while now. Its quick and easy to use and ideal for using daily. Its not going to remove your make up, but I would use after I have used a face wipe/makeup remover.

Lush 9-5 is a great cleanser to use if you would prefer.Again this is not the best product to use to remove make up but its amazing. Massage into skin and remove with cotton pads.

Steaming

Facial steamers are cheap and easy to pick up they usually come with an attachment which you would use to concentrate on your nose. Facial steamers are great but they are not necessary. You can do the same with a bowl filled with hot water (needs to be hot enough to have steam) and a towel. Half fill your bowl with water (I boil the kettle and use that) lean over and put towel over you and the bowl. Just chill for 10 mins or as long as you can manage. If your leaning over a bowl rather then having your face in the steamer I would recommend you pop into Lush and pick up a Tea Tree Tab. They are only £1 and a skincare must have. Its perfect for acne. Tea Tree is a natural antiseptic so will help to fight the bacteria that can cause acne. Read my little review here.

Gently steaming your face helps to soften the layer of dead skin cells which is clogging your skin.It will open the pores which in turn will help release toxins, enhance blood circulation and allow other products to become absorbed and do their job properly.

Exfoliate

Exfoliating the skin is another important essential with skincare. Gently scrubbing your face aids desquamation. It removes the dead skin cells that are making your skin look dull and tired. If you have angry, sore acne I would not advise exfoliating or avoid the area if its limited.

One of my favourite Face scrubs is Lush Dark Angels. Read about it Here.

Rolled oats are perfect as a Natural alternative and are ideal for mild acne or sensitive skin. Mix you oats with Manuka Honey , Raspberries , Blueberries the list is endless or even add a few drops of TeaTree to help it fight the acne causing bacteria like I said earlier.

As with all scrubs apply to skin and massage in circular movements. Don’t for get lips aswel! Rinse off with plenty of warm water.

Steam

I know we have already done it, and it really is not necessary to steam again but I do for a few minutes. If you have sensitive skin maybe skip this part.

If you want to use Pore Clearing strips to remove blackheads (mostly common on your nose) now would be the time. You skin, well your nose really has been steamed and scrubbed so they will remove much easier now. Follow the instructions on the strips.

Face Mask

Now that the skin has been cleaned, steamed and scrubbed we can now relax a little with a face mask.

I do like sheet masks but I prefer face mask you leave on for facials. I feel they work better at removing any impurities.

As with all masks apply even amount, sit back and relax…

There are so many masks you can choose from. If you don’t have a favorite I would recommend

L’oreal Clay Mask (read about it here )

Or read my Lush Fresh Mask Review.

For Natural and Organic Masks you can make your self, have a read through my previous blog posts. My favourite Oraganic DIY mask is Manuka Honey

Once you’ve rinsed your mask off gently pat dry.

Moisturise

Its important to keep your skin hydrated. Moisturiser is something you should be using daily. Cream or oil based does not matter as long as you are using the best for your skin type. When you apply you should be massaging it in. It takes a few minutes but massaging will not only improve blood circulation but the massage will relax tightened muscles in your face. Tense muscles lead to more deeper lines and wrinkles.

Spend about 5 minutes using a combination of light tapping and small circular movements. I’m using BioOil at the moment. Using Daily can help to reduce acne scars, and fine lines and wrinkles.

They you are. The same process as you would get in the salon but obviously not as relaxing as your having to do it yourself. You skin will look fresher and more radiant as you have removed all the dead skin cells and impurities and re hydrated your skin. To maintain a weekly facial can be hard with our busy lives but it is essential to skin care. The more you do it the more you will benefit.

There are plenty of skin care recommendations on my other blog posts, check them out or late me know any products you think are essential.

Superdrug Face Mask Review

by lovesandluxuriesDecember 23, 2016December 23, 2016

So we have all seen the masks in superdrug haven’t we. The 99p ones. A variety of clay’s and cocktails promising to cleanse and soften. But are they really worth bothering with. There are 19 different mask’s. Peel off, Clay based or self heating. There are so many to choose from so here is a little review of the ones I tried.

Before applying any of these masks I made sure all my make was taken off and I washed my face with a face wash.

I usually put my face mask’s on in the bath. Not only is it more relaxing but less mess when applying/taking them off.

When removing mask’s, add a little water and massage skin to break the mask up a little. Use plenty of clean warm water to rinse.

Manuka Honey Peel Off Mask.

Nourish and moisturise – for sensitive skin

Looking forward to trying this one as its Manuka based. Its smells sweet as soon as you open the sachet. Its sticky like you would expect a honey based product to be. Apply a little at a time otherwise it can be messy getting the product out of the packet. Other then that it applies nicely. I put on a even layer like you would usually do with a peel off mask. I felt it slightly tighten on my skin during the 20 mins it was on but it wasn’t uncomfortable.

I found it difficult to remove. I had to rinse the mask off rather then peel and it just went a bit gloopy with the water. I wouldn’t say my skin really looked any different to be honest. Its not one i will try again.

Orange and Black Lava Exfoliating Mask

Gently polishes and brightens skin- for all skin types

This is a grey clay looking mask with a thick consistency. It has got a few grainy bits but doesn’t seam very harsh. It smells a little like oranges.

I didn’t like this mask at all. From the start it made my skin feel very hot and itchy.

It was only on for a few mins then i rinsed it off with plenty of water.

The next day my skin was a little dry and flakey in some places.

so unfortunately I don’t have much to say about this one, I wont be getting it again again.

Chocolate Orange Self Heating Mask

Deeply purifies and hydrates skin – For normal to dry skin

This smells amazing, you can really smell the orange oil. You can feel the heat from the mask as you massage it in. The heat it generates is supposed to open your pores to allow the mask to draw out impurities. The heat didn’t last long but was lovely. It didn’t feel itchy or tingly on.

It was one of the easier ones to get off as it didn’t really set. however, if you put too much on it can drip down. Which is the problem I had, it kept dripping down onto my lips.

Overall it was a pleasant mask. I didn’t feel my skin looked much clearer but my skin did feel a little tighter. My skin does feel more hydrated and any dry patches of skin I had before are now gone. I didn’t even apply a moisturiser after as my skin felt so soft .

I would use this one again especially as its only 99p. And did I mention it smell’s just like Terry’s chocolate orange.

Sugar And Spice Self Heating Mask

Brightens and softens skin-ideal for all skin types.

After the last self heating mask I am looking forward to this one. I love the smell of this.It looks and smells just like caramel. As soon as you start to massage into your face it starts heating up and its so nice…

It wasn’t a problem while it was on. It didn’t drip, or burn its been really nice. So far this has been my favorite one of these Superdrug masks. If i’m honest I don’t think my skin looked much different maybe a little brighter. It feels lovely. I wont need to use moisturiser. I would use it again but its not going to be my go to face mask.

Cucumber Cooling Mask

Refreshes And Soothes Skin – For sensitive skin

Its a very strong fresh cucumber smell as soon as you open the sachet. Its thick like a clay and applies nicely but I don’t really have much to say about it to be honest. My complexion doesn’t look clearer or brighter. I dont feel refreshed. Not one i will get again.

Dead Sea Mineral Mask

For a clearer vibrant complexion – Normal to oily skin

When you finally get the packet open the first thing you notice is the smell of lavender. Had I of realised in the shop this was lavender I probably wouldn’t of picked it up. I normally avoid Lavender like the plague but as I’ve succeeded in opening the packet im going to use it. It’s a light grey colour the same thick consistency you get with clay based masks. It goes on easily and is very soothing.

You can feel the mask drying and tightening slightly. It dries to a white chalky looking mask. Its not the easiest of mask’s to get off but that’s expected with clay based products.

My skin is looking clearer, but it does feel very dry and a little sensitive. I Didn’t hate this mask but I also wouldn’t use it again.

White Chocolate Mousse Mask

Cleanse and deeply nourishes skin – For normal to dry skin.

It promises a radiant complexion,I am happy to try this one.

Eww not sure I like the smell of this. Its not the worst smelling mask I’ve used it just doesn’t smell like I was expecting it to.

Hated it!

Same problem as the Orange and Black Lava Exfoliating Mask. Its not even a tingly sensation like you would get with something minty. This just burns! Took it off straight away. I have a dry patch of skin on my chin,sides of nose and forehead. I know everybody is different but no, just don’t try it. Promises a radiant complexion HA by BURNING YOUR SKIN OFF!

So overall what do i think of these mask?

Well, the sachets are very generous with the amount of product you get in them. There is easily enough for 2 applications. They are only 99p and at the moment there is an offer of buy 1 get second half price that’s pretty good value for money. They are not going to clear up acne or repair damaged skin but there was a couple I really liked and would buy again. Like the self heating masks.

But there was also a couple of masks that really were uncomfortable on, and 1 of those left me with dry patches that lasted a few days. I know everybody is different and some are more sensitive then others but i’ve never had a reaction like this to any skincare. I’m not sure I would try the other masks now. So if you have sensitive skin perhaps only try the masks that are for your skin type. Like i said i would use the self heated masks again but I didnt love them enough to be my go to fav face masks.

Let me know what you think of them xx

Beauty Essentials Under £5

by lovesandluxuriesOctober 23, 2016

We all love a good bargain and money never stretches as far as you want it to so, following my last post My under £10 Favorites i’m sharing my must have’s under £5.

You’ll have to keep an eye on my post or hit the follow button (wink wink) for updates where I will be adding more essentials under £5

Vasaline Lip Therapy

Weather your a matte lipstick kinda girl or love a glamarous gloss. Dry, flakey lips are not a good look . These are perfect to instantly smooth and hydrate your lips.

Stick or tin. Original, Aloe, Cocoa, sugar coated or my fav with a slight tint, rosey.

Original and Aloe are great for this time of year when you have a cold and your nose gets sore and flakey on the sides. Rub a little vaseline to re hydrate. Vasaline has so many uses, You can use it on your hair to smooth split ends, helps remove make up from clothes, great to use for cuticle care or around your nail to stop the nail varnish drying on your skin its really worth keeping one in your bag. And at the moment Superdrug are running an offer. 2 for £3. Direct link in Shop My Feed

Barry M Nail Paint

From £2.99 – £4.99

Classic,Gelly, Coconut Infused and Speedy in a variety of colours, textures and sparkles.I would be surprised if you didn’t find a colour you’ll fall in love with. For me Raspberry is my Favourite. So much so I have just finished a pot. And I never usually make it to the end!

You’ll need to apply two coats as with all brands. And make sure you let the first coat dry before applying the second. Some colours are more dense then others, but nothing another coat won’t fix.

If you use a base and top coat you will get a week out of your nails but that obviously depends how much washing up you have to suffer during the week.

For what your paying I think they are great buys, even if you just want your nail colour to last one night! Cheaper then getting a manicure for your girls night out.

Teatree Oil

£2.99

So I briefly spoke about Tea Tree oil in my Manuka Honey post.

Its a natural antiseptic derived from the Australian native plant

Its most common use is to treat acne. I add a few drops to most of my skin care products particularly moisturiser I use at nighttime to give it extra power. If you suffer from bad acne this could be your best friend. I also tend to mix it with Manuka Honey , the miracle product as a face mask.

Another great tip for acne prone skin is to add a few drops to clean warm water and dip in some cotton pads. Squeeze out extra liquid and use all over the face (mind your eyes) as a toner.

Tea tree oil has many other usefull benefits. If you have a dry itchy scalp this will help clear it up. You can add it to coconut oil/milk or i just add a few drops to your shampoo.

The antibacterial properties will also help to get of headlice. Its well worth getting this oil. It will fast becone your go to product.

Lush Teatree Tab

£1

Ive spoke about this lush little treat in a previous post Lush Cosmetics Facial Review

Its made from Tea Tree, which is antibacterial and antiseptic and AloeVera which helps to rejuvenate and hydrate

Drop into a bowl of hot water and steam your face for 10mins. By steaming your face you open up the pores.Which then allows the oils to become absorbed. Follow with a face mask . Once the water has cooled down transfer into bottles and use twice a day as toner. Its such a great product and only a pound. Perfect excuse to at least try it. and then you can continue to use it for a good few weeks after. Its such a good product, I would pay so much more for it and would get one everytime I pass a lush store.

H&M Masks

£1.99

Such a variety of masks available.

I haven’t tried all of them but have to say I wasn’t impressed until I tried this one, the Manuka, chamomile and jasmine blossom for combination skin.

So you want to be applying to clean dry skin. The perfect time would be after a hot bath or shower or a 10 minute facial steam. That way your pores are already open to allow the product to work. Apply a nice thin layer. I find with peel off mask, if I apply them too thick they don’t peel off properly.

Leave on 15-20 mins

I like peel off masks, I like to see what its removed and WOW! is all I can say about this mask. This is the best peel of mask I have used.It removed a lot, more so from my nose. My skin was a lot clearer, brighter and very soft. I don’t know how well it would work without steaming my face first but for £1.99 I will be getting a couple next time i’m in H&M.

I couldnt find this mask on their website but i’ve included a store locator in my Shop My Feed.

Colour Tattoo 24hr eyeshadow

£4.99

So I thought I would try out the ON AND ON BRONZE. Its such a beautiful metallic shade, very pigmented. Its a cream shadow but applies beautifully.There are 6 shades available and they make the most beautiful smokey eye looks. They do remind me of the Mac Paint pots but a lot cheaper.

I find I use my finger rather then a brush to apply the eyeshadow if I want a softer finish and it blends really well. For more colour, use a brush. I love them. will definitely be adding more to the collection.

Dr Bronner castille soap

Prices starting from £1.99 for 59ml

9 varieties (including teatree)

A combination of Organic extra virgin coconut, Olive oil, jojoba, hemp and essential oils.

The uses for this magic soap are endless.The ecologically friendly soaps can be used on body, face or hair. There is even a fragrance free if you have sensitive skin.

I mostly use mine to wash my hair and make up brushes. You don’t need much product. A little goes a long way. After a good rinse they leave no residue. Which is perfect for beauty sponges.

You really can use this product on ANYTHING inc washing the floor. All just depends on how diluted it is.

Its really worth trying. Once you have you’ll love it and will use it on everything!!

So that’s it for this post,but remember this is a ongoing post.

Follow me on twitter and/or Instagram for when the post will be updated with more essentials under £5 xx

Ettang Charcoal Cup Pack Review

by lovesandluxuriesSeptember 3, 2016

After finally deciding on what to buy in Sephora (I know its a hard decision) I make my way to the till. Casually at the till Point are the Ettang Face masks. As i’m obsessed with skincare it doesn’t take much persuading for me to try one. I’ve decided on trying the Charcoal mask which promises to make my skin clear and bright.

Ettang are a Korean based company focused on quality products with no fuss. The mask comes in a pot ready to be mixed with a spatula for mixing and applying. I paid e4.50 for 17g

The mask comes in a powder form, you add warm water to the fill line, mix and apply. Simple. Once the water was added it mixes in to a smooth grey paste.

I applied to clean dry skin. I thought the mask was easy to apply with the spatula. I applied an even thick layer all over. There’s so much product in this pot! Had I of realised I would of only mixed half of it.

After about 10 mins you can feel the mask slightly tighten and if I smile the mask slightly lifts from my skin. The mask turns to a chalky white consistency on any thin areas while the rest of the mask is slightly rubbery and you can see any enlarged pores or blemishes through the mask.

After 20 mins i start to peel off. Although most of it did peel off in one go some bits were left on my face. They were easy enough to remove with a damp cotton pad.

I wouldn’t say my face felt very moisturised after using like it would with a sheet mask but, my skin generally did appear clearer. Which is what it said it does.

After looking at the rubbery mask that i removed I did notice little holes in the mask. I’m not sure if this is where my enlarged pores were and it didn’t do anything or if its where it has removed any impurities.

At 4.50 (euros) for 17g I thought this mask was great value for money especially as you could get 2 applications from it. This isn’t a brand I had heard of but next time i’m in Sephora I would try another if it was strategically placed at the till again. Although i’m not sure if I would go out of my way to find another.

I think they are available through Amazon but they are also more expensive on there. And as far as i’m aware U.K still doesn’t have a Sephora store but they do ship to u.k .Click on the link to see what they do sell on line, you wont be disappointed.

So thats what i thought. Let me know if you have tried any Ettang masks or if you have any you would recommend xx

Blueberries

by lovesandluxuriesAugust 5, 2016August 5, 2016

Continuing with my skin care obsession, Organic DIY products are cheap, easy and good enough to eat. So this post is about Blueberries.

Blueberries are full of Vitamin A and C. Vitamin A can help to reduce wrinkles and get rid of blotchy patches and dark spots while Vitamin C is said to reduce free radicals found in the environment which can be harmful to skin. Acne is mostly caused by hormones but applying and eating blueberries can help to control hormones especially during that time of the month. They also give a boost to your circulatory system which can help to prevent any unwanted lines, varicose veins and cellulite.

You want to be using Fresh Organic products as much as possible. The less pesticides the better. This time of year Blueberries can be so cheap to buy especially if you have a PYO close to you. The small size punnet i brought cost me £1 (that’s right £1 for a punnet of Blueberries AND Raspberries)

Hair Mask

Handful Blueberries

1-2 tablespoons Olive oil or Coconut oil

Mash up your blueberries and add the the oil

Apply to shampooed towel dried hair,massaging into the scalp to promote healthy new hair growth

leave for about 20 mins

rinse with plenty of warm water. Because its oil based you will need to do a lot of rinsing. Let your hair dry naturally avoiding any heated appliances.

Acne Fighting Face Mask

Handful Blueberries

Teaspoon Lemon Juice

Teaspoon Manuka Honey

Mash up your Blueberries, add the lemon juice and honey.

Apply to clean damp skin and relax for 10-20 mins

rinse off with plenty of warm water

The lemon juice can be drying so make sure you use a moisturiser after.

Soothing Face mask

Handful Blueberries

Teaspoon Manuka honey

Teaspoon Organic yoghurt.

As with the others mash the blueberries and add the yoghurt and honey.

leave on for 10-20 mins. rinse with plenty of warm water.

You can also add essential oils to the mask like Rose oil to reduce redness and even out skin tone or TeaTree oil to help fight any bacteria on the skin

Raspberries

by lovesandluxuriesJuly 24, 2016

I prefer fresh, organic DIY skincare over any chemical based skincare. The fresher and more Organic the better the results. If its good enough to eat then its going to be great for your skin.

This little post is about Fresh Organic Raspberries. Their overall health benefits are endless from helping to eliminate wrinkles, helping to loose weight and even said to prevent Cancer due to their high concentration of Ellagic acid. Raspberries have the highest antioxident strength then in all fruits.

The best way to get your fruit particularly is summer would be to find your nearest PYO.

You can help yourself, have as much as you like knowing they use a lot less pesticides and is going to be cheaper then your local supermarket. I went to Blofield PYO Norwich where I paid less then £2 for my punnet.

Simple FaceMask

Approx 5 large Raspberries

I used a pestal and morta to squash my Raspberries. I find it makes a nice consisitancy to put on my face. thats it…put it on!

Leave on for about 10 mins and rinse with plenty of clean warm water.

Raspberry and Milk (or Yoghurt)

Approx 5 large Raspberries

1 tablespoons Fresh Full Fat Milk (Or Live Organic Yoghurt)

As above, squash your raspberries and add milk (i use yoghurt) leave on about 15 mins and rinse with plenty of warm water.

Manuka Honey and Raspberry mask

If you’ve read my post on Manuka Honey you’ll know how great this is for your skin as well.

So you could substitute the milk or Yoghurt from the mask above to 1 Tablespoon of Manuka Honey. This will make it a little more sticky so makes sure you rinse well with plenty of warm water.

These masks are great for dry or combination skin. They will tone, hydrate, cleanse and reduce inflammation. You can do these twice a week. However, they only have a shelf life of about 6 hours when kept if fridge. So only make up enough for 1 mask at a time and eat whats left.

Don’t forget if you have any essential oils (like rose – check out my post on using rose in skincare Reusing your roses in skincare) you can add a few drops to give your masks a boost.

Lush Cosmetics Facial Review

by lovesandluxuriesJuly 22, 2016August 18, 2016

Who doesn’t love Lush Cosmetics? I cant go past a store without going in. I’ve already done a Lush Fresh Mask Review but this post is about using Lush products for a once a week deep cleaning facial.

So here’s what I used and what I thought.

Firstly you want to make sure you’ve removed all your make up. This will allow the products to work more efficiently.

I started with

9-5 Cleansing lotion

95g – £5.25

Almond Oil – To soothe and hydrate

Fresh Dove Orchid Extract – To help clear skin

YlangYlang Oil – To Calm and Relax

I used about a ten pence piece of 9-5Cleanser and massaged into my face using small circular motions. Making sure to massage well into oily prone areas like the sides of your nose. Remove with cotton pads.

I really liked this cleanser. I didn’t think it was very greasy feeling but made my skin feel really hydrated and clean. And it smells lovely.

I would get this again but i wouldn’t recommend if you wanted to use it as a heavy make up remover, you’ll use a lot of product. But for a morning and weekly cleanser I loved it.

next I used

Dark Angels

100g £7.25

Charcoal – to exfoliate

Rhassoul – Absorbs excess sebum & draws out impurities

Avacado – To Hydrate

To activate this product you need to add a little water to turn it into a paste. Apply and massage in small circular motions. Rinse with plenty of warm water.

I think this is probably more of a facial scrub then a cleanser. That’s what i use it for. Exfoliating helps to remove the dead skin cells which can make your skin look cloggy and dull. The Black sugar is great for exfoliating. I don’t think its too harsh and I would use this a couple of times a week.

It can be a messy product. It doesn’t stain but it does leave water marks.

My skin feels really clean after using Dark Angels its defintley one of my favorite Lush products.

Tea Tree Toner Tab

5g tablet £1

TeaTree Oil – Antibacterial & Antiseptic

Aloe Vera – Rejuvenate and Hydrate

Drop the Tablet into a bowl of hot water (Hot enough to have steam) be careful, you don’t want to burn yourself.

The tablet does fizz a little, lean over the bowl and cover with a towel to trap the steam in.

There isn’t an over powering smell of Tea Tree but you can smell it.

after a 5 -10mins put the water to one side.

I really liked the Tea Tree Toner Tab, its only £1 and I would pay more for it. I would get it every time I go in there.

I used the Dark Angels on my face again. Now my pores are open after the steaming the scrub / cleanser can absorb any dirt in my pores which could later cause blackheads.

Rinse off with warm water.

Next is

Cosmetic Warrior

75G £6.95

Garlic – Deep Cleanse

TeaTree – Antiseptic

Honey – Moisturising

So this mask really smells of Garlic. I don’t hate it enough to not use the rest of the pot, I just won’t buy it again and will probably moan about the smell while its on.

Its a Thick creamy consistency with a few garlic pieces.

It doesn’t dry hard so makes it easier to get off. My skin did feel a little tighter after using it but its not one i will get again. It was mostly the smell of Cosmetic Warrior I didn’t like.

After that’s been rinsed off with warm water, I go back to the Tea Tree water.

Soak a couple of cotton pads in the water and wipe over face, toning the skin before applying moisturiser if you think you need it.

With the rest of the water I add a few drops of TeaTree oil and put it in a plastic spritz bottle and use as a daily toner. which will last me a week.

I really liked these products (except the smell of the mask) and have a new favorite with the dark angels cleanser. They are all good value for money especially the toner tab. Don’t forget when you have 5 pots you can trade them for a free Fresh Mask xx

Reusing your roses in skincare

by lovesandluxuriesJuly 11, 2016

If you’ve read my other post’s or seen my Instagram you’ll know i’m obsessed with skin care. Particularly if its fresh and organic. And roses. They are so beautiful, smell amazing and have many benefits to being part of a skin care routine.

So this post is about re using your rose’s and adding them to your skincare.

Rose is used in beauty products to help refresh and rejuvenate skin. Its anti bacterial properties make it ideal to help clear up acne. It can also reduce swelling of acne and rosacea due to its anti inflammatory properties. Rose is also high in vitamin C which is a great anti oxidant.Rose water is a great alternative to alcohol based toners particularly for sensitive skin as its not as dehydrating for your skin like alcohol.

Rose Body Scrub

You will need:

Himalayan Rose Salt (Great for exfoliating)

Rose Petals

Sweet Almond Oil (or you can use olive oil or coconut oil)

Rose essential Oil

Grind up about a table spoon of salt and set aside. I used a pestle and mortar to do this. using the pestle and morta again, add rose petals and grind them till they become pulpy.i used the petals from 1 rose. Add salt, about 2 tablespoons of your oil and 3-4 drops of essence till well mixed. You want to make sure the mixture isn’t too dry or too runny.when its at the consistency you would like add to an airtight container.

using rose petals i would only keep for a few days. If your making the scrub without the petals its will last a few months as long as is in an airtight container

Rose and Manuka Honey Face Mask

You will need

Rose petals

Manuka Honey (read my Manuka Honey post)

rose oil

Using a pestle and morta i pulped the petals from 1 rose. transferred to an airtight container and added 1-2 teaspoons of Manuka Honey and 3-4 drops of Rose essential oil.

The more honey you add the thicker and sticker the mixture will be.

Apply to clean damp face and leave on 10-15 mins. rinse with plenty of warm water and pat dry.

Soothing Eye Pads

Soak cotton pads in water with a few drops of essential oil. squeeze out excess water and leave on eyes for few minutes to reduce redness and puffiness.

You don’t need to have rose petals to make the scrubs or mask, its just nice to recycle something natural to make these home made skin care products even more special. You can just add your rose essential oil to any of your skin care essentials. Not only will it smell amazing but will also help to improve your skin texture.

Lush Fresh Mask Review

by lovesandluxuriesJune 3, 2016

File 03-06-2016, 23 17 22 I am obsessed with skincare. Anything that promises to even out and perfect my complexion, I’m happy to give a ago. Particularly if its fresh and organic. I love Lush Cosmetics. Fresh Homemade affordable cosmetics from a company who pride themselves on being against animal testing. They have a wide range of cosmetics from hair care to pedicures. You all know the high street stores, you can smell them before you see it. Their stores are always packed with shoppers testing out the products and eager sales assistants armed full of information about their products and ingredients . And as a little bonus if you return 5 clean full size pots or tubes you get a free fresh mask!

The masks need to be kept in the fridge to maintain their freshness and will last around 3 weeks. Don’t worry they come with a best before sticker.

I use them 2-3 times a week. I remove my make up and exfoliate (you don’t have to, but I do to remove any dead skin and to allow the product to work more effectively) and cleanse. I also put them on while I’m in the bath. It makes it so much easier and less messy to take them off.

So here’s what I thought….

Mask of Magnaminty

125g £5.75

Honey – Antiseptic

Peppermint – Removes dirt build up

African Marigold oil – Anti-Inflammatory

Green, thick, slightly lumpy with a Strong Peppermint fragrance (almost enough to make your eyes water). Not to messy to apply, but it is thick so you end up putting a lot on. While its on it does feel slightly tingly but nothing unbearable. It does dry out a little during the 10mins but doesn’t completely set.

I found it easier to massage the mask with wet hands just before I take it off. It breaks down the mask a little easier and then just keep rinsing.

My skin did look cleaner, refreshed and moisturised. Angry spots seemed calmer and skin felt a little tighter.

I did like this mask. I think if you have acne prone skin you’ll love it. The peppermint was too much for me. so it isn’t my favourite of the masks.

Cupcake

75g £6.75

Vanilla – Calm’s redness

Spearmint oil – Tones skin

Rhassoul mud – Deep cleansing

Dark, chocolaty thick and smooth. With a slight refreshing smell of spearmint.

Due to it being so thick it is a little difficult to evenly apply to your skin and is a little messy. Once its on it dries quickly. You get a little tightening sensation but its all quite nice.

Again I massaged this with a little water after 10mins to break down the mask. And then used plenty of water to rinse it off.

I noticed my skin felt tighter and softer. It felt clean and clear. The more I used this, the smaller my pores seemed.

This was originally designed for teenagers to help with breakouts and absorb oil. I loved it. I also felt my skin was well hydrated for a couple of days after using.

Rosey Cheeks File 02-06-2016, 23 31 20

75g £6.75

Calamine – Soothing

Kaolin clay – Removes dirt and impurities

Rose – Nourish and tone

This smells Amazing!! I love it just for the smell.

Its a thick pink clay like consistency and smells so beautiful. Once its on its so relaxing. No tingling or tightening. just this amazing rose smell

Once i washed it off my skin felt amazing. Soft but a little matte and did i mention the smell..

I loved this mask yes mostly because of the fragrance but also it hydrated and softened my skin. If I used the mask during the day and then applied make up I felt my skin looked smoother and make up lasted a little longer. Although I do usually put the masks on in the evenings as it gives my skin a chance to breathe.

Ayesha

75g £6.75

Kiwi Fruit – Cleanse and brighten

Asparagus – For its nutrients

Fullers Earth – Absorbs oil

Rosemary oil – Antiseptic

Greyish, Greenish colour with a fresh fragrance. Not as dense and thick as the other masks so much easier to apply. This one is said to ‘smooth away wrinkles’ so I’m happy to smother it on!

As the mask dries, your skin absorbs what it needs and it looks patchy. I left it on a little longer then recommended and it made it a little harder to get off.

My skin did seem a little smoother in appearance and a little brighter but it didnt feel as clean and moisturised as the others. As for the wrinkles i do think it helped with some of the finer lines. Overall i felt it was more of a general relaxing face mask rather then compared to other which were more targeted to specific problems.

File 03-06-2016, 23 18 17

Over all I would say my skin seems more smoother, hydrated and cleaner since using Lush FreshFace Masks . I’ve enjoyed using all of them. some I would definitely buy again and some i wouldn’t as they just wasn’t suited to my skin.

let me know what you think of the masks or any you would recommend xx

Loves and Luxuries

facemask

Sheet masks under £5 any good?

Easy Steps To Acne Fighting, Wrinkle Smoothing Facial.

Superdrug Face Mask Review

Beauty Essentials Under £5

Ettang Charcoal Cup Pack Review

Blueberries

Raspberries

Lush Cosmetics Facial Review

Reusing your roses in skincare

Lush Fresh Mask Review