I hope you all had a good month, and are already starting to feel the Christmas atmosphere. I did not even realise when London started to look so magical once again, the lights are everywhere, the ice skating rings are filled with ice skaters and the window displays look wonderful. This month I have been focusing on skincare and body care as with the colder months, I noticed that my skin is more vulnerable to damaging effects of temperature differences.
Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask
When I discovered this mask in Selfridges, I was amazed by the beautiful smell of the Manuka honey. It was the main reason for my compulsive purchase (guilty as always). Having tried and tested this tube of wonder, I can honestly say that this has become one of my favourite masks. It is moisturising, cleansing and has antibacterial properties, so it is great for all skin types.
I found this mask to be very hydrating, and also purifying, clearing out any spots and blemishes. I used it 2-3 times a week, layering a thick layer over face and neck, and leaving it on for 20 minutes, then washed it off with warm water. The 'user' experience is great as it is not messy, smells divine and is easy to remove, leaving your skin feeling smooth and glowing. (Available here, £22)
Melvita L'Or Bio Extraordinary Oil
Recently, I was invited to a Melvita Press event and I received this Extraordinary Oil to try. As you all know, I am a fan of oils so this was a very exciting product for me to try. The Melvita Oil is 100% natural, made with 5 essential oils :
- Argan oil from Morocco (Skincare properties)
- Kendi oil from Indonesia & Inchi oil from Amazonia (Regenerating properties)
- Buriti oil from Brazil (Promotes healthy skin glow)
- Pracaxi oil from Amazonia (Improves hair shine & strength)
You can use Melvita Oil for face, body and hair as it has great properties for skin as well as for hair. This month I've been loving this product, especially with the new, gorgeous packaging! I used it daily as it is very nourishing, so it is perfect for the winter season. After a couple of uses my skin was silky, smooth, and glowing. The oil is not heavy, so it gets absorbed quickly into the skin, meaning you can get dressed and go. It smells divine, as it is a mix of bergamot, basil, jasmine, cedar and rose. Definitely a must- have product! (Available here, £15)
This Works In Transit Camera Close-Up
Best. Primer. Ever. This is a must-try product for every beauty fan out there. I always thought that if you don't wear liquid foundation, there is no need for a primer, until I tried this one. I don't use a lot of make-up and I tend to stick to powder foundation as my skin is not problematic. I noticed that before I started using a primer, half way through the day my concealer and powder seemed to disappear and I had to reapply again.
I started using this primer last summer when I got a sample, and since then I am obsessed with it, hence why I purchased a full size bottle. It is worth noting that it is a completely different primer to what you normally get, as it is a 3 in 1 product - primer, mask and moisturiser in one. It has a texture of a moisturiser, it is light and easy to apply. You only need a pea sized amount to cover your face, then let it sink in for few seconds and your skin is full prepped for makeup. When I applied my concealer, powder and bronzer, my skin looked perfect, and it seemed like I was actually wearing foundation. I described the effect as airbrush finish, as the primer gives your skin a boost, plumps it up and smooth out any imperfections. (Available
here, £30)
L'Occitane Shea Light Comforting Cream
It has been a long time since I reviewed L'Occitane, but as a loyal fan, I always end up in their stores, trying products and purchasing new items. I tried this product last year, and got another sample this year. I always seem to try it during the autumn and winter months, and it just fits in with the cosy evenings, candles and winter weather.
The texture of this cream is very light, so it sinks into the skin almost immediately, hydrating your skin. Like the whole Shea range it has a comforting smell, so it is a cherry on top during my pamper evenings (Available
here, £26). You can use it as a day or night cream, but for night I would recommend the more hydrating version Shea Ultra Rich Comforting cream. (Available
here, £28).
Aveda Dry Remedy
During the colder months, my hair becomes very dry so I need to use a lot of hair oil to ensure it stays smooth and shiny. This month I chose Aveda Dry Remedy, as it is filled with the amazing BBuriti oil, which ensures that the hair stays moisturised, supple and shiny.
What I liked about this oil that it controlled frizz so my hair looked smooth throughout the day. 2-4 drops is enough and you should use it daily for best results. The oil has a herbal scent which is very relaxing so I am sure you will want to use it in the mornings and evenings ;) (Available
here, £20.50)
Ania's advice
1. Focus on skincare
2. Use facemasks 1-2 a week
3. Visit Winter Wonderland!
x
Ania