Today I've got a long overdue post about some products I got to try following an Ultraceuticals facial I had earlier in the year..
If you're not familiar with Ultraceuticals, do yourself a favour and get acquainted with the Australian professional grade brand. The products are cruelty free, and also free from all the harsh chemical ingredients such as propylene glycol, parabens, synthetic dyes or synthetic fragrances.
With my combination skin prone to breakouts, it is essential for me to cleanse my skin very thoroughly, and I've been loving the Ultraceuticals Ultra Balancing Gel Cleanser, which has been designed for normal to oily skin types. This cleanser promises to cleanse the skin and remove makeup and impurities without disturbing the skin's natural moisture balance. And while I did find it efficient with removing makeup, personally I've loved it as a second cleanse (sometimes with my Clairsonic or Foreo too). That way the added ingredients of Aloe Vera, Cucumber and Oat Kernel Extracts , along with the salicylic acid helps clean my skin deep down every single pore, washing away excess oil, and helping to keep my skin softer, smoother and clearer and brighter as well, and all without leaving my skin feeling tight or dry.
Then there's the Ultraceuticals Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum, which is an oil-free serum suitable for all skin types. It contains Provitamin B5 (Panthenol) and Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) combined with high levels of Hyaluronic Acid to synergistically help restore vital moisture balance and provide long lasting hydration. It also helps support the skin's lipid barrier function and restore critical hydration levels within the skin, and thereby also helps to plump and reduce fine lines and wrinkles
While my skin again is combination, and I generally do not feel it lacks in the moisture department, it does tend to get drier in the cooler months of the year. I was initially a little scared that it would make my skin congested and cause it to breakout, but in actual fact I feel that it has somehow helped normalise the oil production, making it feel less greasy. And within days of using the Ultraceuticals Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum, my skin is left softer and smoother, and dare I say more glowing and thus youthful too. The serum comes in an a convenient pump bottle and it take just a few drops twice a day before your usual moisturiser.
The Ultraceuticals MD Ultimate Red-Action Moisturiser is a moisturiser developed to help address the major skin concerns of ageing and pigmentation, by supporting the skin’s essential lipid barrier function and Natural Moisturising Factor. The cream contains among others vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), and plankton extract which have been shown through clinical study to help reduce the appearance of facial redness associated with photo-ageing and sensitive skin. Now I don't have either sensitive skin, nor feel I am plagued with facial redness - but what I do have, is skin that is showing signs of photo-ageing, so I still happily put it to the test, but naturally cannot really speak of the true effects of this skin in regards to redness. I found the cream slightly too thick for me to use during the day, so have only been using it at night. And I have enjoyed seeing it add lots of extra moisture into my skin, leaving my skin feeling and looking soft and smooth.
These products are truly lovely, and I am so hooked on especially the cleanser and the SPF and know I'll be wanting to repurchase these again and again when they run out. And being so impressed with these products, I am also very keen to explore more of their huge product range.
Ultraceuticals Ultra Balancing Gel Cleanser - RRP: $52 / 200ml
Ultraceuticals B2 Hydrating Serum - $89 / 30ml
Ultraceuticals Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF50+ - RRP: $72 / 100ml
Available from David Jones and Ultraceuticals and select salons and stockists
Ultraceuticals MD Ultimate Red-Action Moisturiser - Available from select salons only
* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |
6 July 2017
5 June 2014
PRODUCT FOCUS: FACE MASKS FOR ALL BUDGETS
Once upon a time I used to get regular facials at a
salon. And by regular I mean every month. My skin was pretty crappy, and these
facials at least kept breakouts to a minimum. But those were at a time when I
was earning a nice wage, and didn’t have a mortgage. When I started University,
I managed to keep up this habit by going to a beauty school where treatments
were so cheap even a poor Uni student could afford the luxury. Today it is
however an entirely different story, now a stay-at-home-mum with a mortgage and
a baby, the budget rarely allow for such extravagances – and that’s when I
reach for range of different masks for an at-home facial, so here are some of
my face mask picks for all budgets;
I have mentioned this mask before in one of my best
budget bargain buys posts, as I really like this mask and is so great priced at
under $10. It is clay based, so it helps draws out excess oil and sebum, so my
skin feels less greasy and I hopefully stop a breakout or two from occurring. It
also contains cocoa butter and shea butter to hydrate the skin, as well as aloe
vera, chamomile and milk proteins to help soothe stressed skin. And I really
like that it is so gentle that you can use it several times a week without
drying out or irritating your skin, which is perfect, especially for the
greasier t-zone area that is particularly prone to breakouts.
This mask is another great for those on a budget. It is perfect for those with oily and blemish prone and congested skin. It contains dead sea mud that helps draw out excess oil and sebum and help control oil production. It also contains salicylic acid that help draw out impurities and tighten pores, while tea tree oil helps treat and prevent blemishes. And just ten minutes with this mask, and my skin feels more refined and less greasy, and any breakouts that I have, seem to vanish quicker than normal.
Ultraceuticals Ultra Energising Mask*
My little boy has just gone through a bad period with teething, and consequently not sleeping through the night, waking several times, clearly uncomfortable, as he has been difficult to settle again. Days in a row with lots of interruptions during the night, and you start to feel it. I have not only been feeling tired, I have also looked it, with huge bags under my eyes, and my skin drab and dull. And that’s where this Ultra Energising Mask from Ultraceuticals have been a blessing as it has been the perfect pick-me-up. IT contains a potent blend of anti-oxidants including caffeine, Persian silk tree extract and salicin to wake and energise the skin, as well as vitamins E, A and B5 to help moisture the skin. And left on for just 5-10minutes and my skin is left with the most amazing glow, as if you’ve just had 8+ hours of beauty sleep. And I love that it is from an Australian and owned brand. Aussie, Aussie….
I fell in love with this mask while I was pregnant, and trying to avoid to harsh skincare, including those containing salicylic acid, which is a big no-no when you’re pregnant, and this mask was a natural and great alternative. It is based on kaolin clay which gently draws out impurities, while aloe vera soothes the skin, and rosehip oil helps keep the skin nourished. And I love that it is free from synthetic fragrances and colours, and it is free from parabens, SLS, and mineral oils.
Ultraceuticals Ultra Clear Purifying Mask*
Lately my skin has been extremely temperamental. A lack of sleep due to a teething baby, along with the stress of moving house, twice within a month, getting a new house designed and built, has no doubt stressed me out a little more than I like – and sadly I feel that it is also showing on the condition of my skin. I have simply had more and larger breakouts than I have for a long time. And to help get my skin back to normal again, I’ve reached for this purifying mask, which contains a BHA to exfoliate and support the skin’s natural regeneration cycle, Vitamins C, E and B to help promote healthy skin, as ell as Natural Clove, Sandalwood and Eucalyptus Oil to provide essential antioxidants to the skin. The mask is free from benzoyl peroxide, so it is non-drying on the skin and so gentle that it can be used up to three times a week without an issue. I have been using it as a spot treatment, for 10 minutes a few times a week, especially on my chin where the worst culprits have emerged, and immediately after removing the mask, I can see that my skin is clearer, less greasy, and any blemish is already less angry and smaller in size. Yet another Aussie beauty!
Formula
10.0.6 Deep Down Detox Ultra-Cleansing Mud Mask
This mask is another fantastic option if you’re strapped for cash. It is seriously deep cleansing, and reaches deep down every single pore, thanks to sea salt that cleanses, and bergamot that helps rebalance the skin, while orange oil helps to recharge the skin – and make the mask smell lovely too. It is a little drying on the skin, so I wouldn’t recommend it for sensitive skin types, but perfect for those with combination or oilier skin types, as a weekly treatment when your skin needs a good clean.
Have
you tried any of these masks? Do you give yourself facials at home? And which
masks do you recommend?
RRP: $9.99 (120g) – Available from Priceline,
supermarkets and select pharmacies
This mask is another great for those on a budget. It is perfect for those with oily and blemish prone and congested skin. It contains dead sea mud that helps draw out excess oil and sebum and help control oil production. It also contains salicylic acid that help draw out impurities and tighten pores, while tea tree oil helps treat and prevent blemishes. And just ten minutes with this mask, and my skin feels more refined and less greasy, and any breakouts that I have, seem to vanish quicker than normal.
RRP: $8.95 (100ml) –
Available from Woolworths
Ultraceuticals Ultra Energising Mask*
My little boy has just gone through a bad period with teething, and consequently not sleeping through the night, waking several times, clearly uncomfortable, as he has been difficult to settle again. Days in a row with lots of interruptions during the night, and you start to feel it. I have not only been feeling tired, I have also looked it, with huge bags under my eyes, and my skin drab and dull. And that’s where this Ultra Energising Mask from Ultraceuticals have been a blessing as it has been the perfect pick-me-up. IT contains a potent blend of anti-oxidants including caffeine, Persian silk tree extract and salicin to wake and energise the skin, as well as vitamins E, A and B5 to help moisture the skin. And left on for just 5-10minutes and my skin is left with the most amazing glow, as if you’ve just had 8+ hours of beauty sleep. And I love that it is from an Australian and owned brand. Aussie, Aussie….
RRP: $65 (75ml) – Available
from David Jones and Ultraceuticals Online
I fell in love with this mask while I was pregnant, and trying to avoid to harsh skincare, including those containing salicylic acid, which is a big no-no when you’re pregnant, and this mask was a natural and great alternative. It is based on kaolin clay which gently draws out impurities, while aloe vera soothes the skin, and rosehip oil helps keep the skin nourished. And I love that it is free from synthetic fragrances and colours, and it is free from parabens, SLS, and mineral oils.
RRP:
$15.95 (100ml) – Available from Priceline and select pharmacies
Ultraceuticals Ultra Clear Purifying Mask*
Lately my skin has been extremely temperamental. A lack of sleep due to a teething baby, along with the stress of moving house, twice within a month, getting a new house designed and built, has no doubt stressed me out a little more than I like – and sadly I feel that it is also showing on the condition of my skin. I have simply had more and larger breakouts than I have for a long time. And to help get my skin back to normal again, I’ve reached for this purifying mask, which contains a BHA to exfoliate and support the skin’s natural regeneration cycle, Vitamins C, E and B to help promote healthy skin, as ell as Natural Clove, Sandalwood and Eucalyptus Oil to provide essential antioxidants to the skin. The mask is free from benzoyl peroxide, so it is non-drying on the skin and so gentle that it can be used up to three times a week without an issue. I have been using it as a spot treatment, for 10 minutes a few times a week, especially on my chin where the worst culprits have emerged, and immediately after removing the mask, I can see that my skin is clearer, less greasy, and any blemish is already less angry and smaller in size. Yet another Aussie beauty!
RRP: $65 (75ml) – Available
from David Jones and Ultraceuticals Online
This mask is another fantastic option if you’re strapped for cash. It is seriously deep cleansing, and reaches deep down every single pore, thanks to sea salt that cleanses, and bergamot that helps rebalance the skin, while orange oil helps to recharge the skin – and make the mask smell lovely too. It is a little drying on the skin, so I wouldn’t recommend it for sensitive skin types, but perfect for those with combination or oilier skin types, as a weekly treatment when your skin needs a good clean.
RRP:
$8.99 (100ml) – Available from Priceline and select pharmacies
So
there you have it – these are some of the face masks that I reach for when I
give my face a facial at home.
*These products were kindly provided for consideration, and have
been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy. 6 May 2014
APRIL 2014 FAVOURITES
How time flies, and it is now that time of the month again where I share some of the
products that I’ve particularly loved during the past month;
A little while we moved into our new house – well that is, the house we will be living in until we’ve finished building our new house. And with all the unpacking I’ve done the last month, along with looking after our little boy who has been teething with several teeth coming out at the same time and hence needed extra cuddles, I have had several days were I’ve gone more or less au naturel – wearing nothing more than mascara – as that is the one product that I would never leave the house without wearing. And I’ve been enjoying the It’s A Long Story Mascara from Arbonne.
Just one coat of this mascara instantly makes your lashes look incredibly long and glossy, nicely defining and separating the lashes and without clumping them together – and over time it also promotes the appearance of longer-looking lashes due being formulated with revolutionary polypeptides, bamboo extract and pro-vitamins to pamper, condition and nurture the lashes. While I’m yet to see the long term effects of using this mascara, the look that this mascara gives my lashes, makes it worthwhile regardless. And the mascara is waterproof, and so gentle too, so perfect for my sensitive eyes.
When I have been wearing a little makeup, and felt like spicing things up a little, I’ve been using the Illamasqua Precision Ink in Havoc which is a reddish brown waterproof liquid eyeliner.
And as the name suggests, it makes it easy to make a precise line, even for fumbly fingers like mine. And it really does stay put all day, perfect for eyes like mine, which are sensitive and easily water.
To contrast the reddish brown liquid liner on my upper lashline, I’ve enjoyed using the Laura Mercier Longwear Cream Eye Pencil in Sage along the lower lashes. Sage is a dark olive green colour, and I feel that it the combination of the two colours really make the green colours of my eyes stand out a little more.
The eyeliner is such a joy to use, and applies easily without the need to drag or pull, yet it stays put all day, which is very rare for a kohl eyeliner.
I absolutely adore this Rouge Eclat in Pink Berry from Clarins. This is a lip treatment and lipstick in one, as it is an Age-Defying Lipstick which contains Nutri-Youth Complex to help create younger-looking, fuller lips, all while giving the lips a gorgeous colour. The Pink Berry, is a gorgeous red toned colour, and is very pigmented so just a quick swipe will leave you will fully saturated colour with a nice satin sheen, perfect for both casual wear and a night out. It feels incredible comfortable to wear, and it has a long wear, but as it wears off, it leaves the lips feeling so soft and smooth.
And not to forget, it has the most divine scent that I just can’t get enough off! I’ve already got my eyes on a few other colours to add to my collection!
Color WOW Pop & Lock*
I had never before heard of Pacifica Skincare when I was asked to trial this body butter. And now I feel I have a lot of catching up to do as this body butter is nothing short of divine. The last time I was on a tropical holiday is a very long time ago, in actual fact, it was in Fiji during 9-11! But this body butter transports you to that secluded tropical island as soon as you open the cream.
It simply smells incredible, beyond words. If you love frangipani and lime – which I are two of my all time favourite scents, then this will no doubt tick your boxes too. The cream leaves your skin feeling silky soft and smooth, and the scent more or less lingers for the rest of the day, which is pretty rare for a body butter. And then how cute is the floral box the cream comes in!
It has been awhile since this fragrance was launched, but nevertheless, it is a true classic. It is fresh and floral, sweet yet it is not sickly! It contains among others bitter orange and raspberry, neroli and jasmine and gardenia. As it is so floral and fresh it is perfect for daytime wear, yet as it also has such a depth, it is just as perfect for a night out.
And you know it is a quality perfume when it lasts all day, without really needing to respray (I can even smell it in my hair where it has brushed against my neck the following day) – Yet the small keychain is just so cute and gorgeous and perfect for the handbag, that I’ve found myself carrying it around regardless. I love it, and have already given my hubby subtle hints, so maybe one day I will get a full sized bottle..
One of the key thinks that bothers me about my skin is pigmentation, and I am forever in search of products which can help minimise it, and this serum has dramatically made a difference in the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation as well as minimised the look of pores and not to mention the amount of breakouts that I get - and just a month.
It I not a cheap serum, but it is really does deliver on its promises, so worth every cent! You can check out my full review here.
BioElixia Body Shaper Stretch Mark Diminishing Cream*
This cleanser helps clean the skin deep down every single pore, and detoxify it, leaving it ready for any treatment care. I have had a few issues with breakout the last few months, but I believe that this cleanser has helped get my skin back to normal again, as it has cleaned it so well from any makeup and excess sebum, yet without drying it out or irritating my skin. It easily removes even longwearing makeup, but I’ve been using it as the second cleanser to give my skin the good deep clean it has obviously needed. It is extremely concentrated, so just a small pump is more than sufficient.
So there you go, these are some of my favourite products for the month of
April.
Arbonne It's
a Long Story Mascara*
A little while we moved into our new house – well that is, the house we will be living in until we’ve finished building our new house. And with all the unpacking I’ve done the last month, along with looking after our little boy who has been teething with several teeth coming out at the same time and hence needed extra cuddles, I have had several days were I’ve gone more or less au naturel – wearing nothing more than mascara – as that is the one product that I would never leave the house without wearing. And I’ve been enjoying the It’s A Long Story Mascara from Arbonne.
Just one coat of this mascara instantly makes your lashes look incredibly long and glossy, nicely defining and separating the lashes and without clumping them together – and over time it also promotes the appearance of longer-looking lashes due being formulated with revolutionary polypeptides, bamboo extract and pro-vitamins to pamper, condition and nurture the lashes. While I’m yet to see the long term effects of using this mascara, the look that this mascara gives my lashes, makes it worthwhile regardless. And the mascara is waterproof, and so gentle too, so perfect for my sensitive eyes.
RRP: 46.00 – Available from Arbonne
When I have been wearing a little makeup, and felt like spicing things up a little, I’ve been using the Illamasqua Precision Ink in Havoc which is a reddish brown waterproof liquid eyeliner.
And as the name suggests, it makes it easy to make a precise line, even for fumbly fingers like mine. And it really does stay put all day, perfect for eyes like mine, which are sensitive and easily water.
RRP: $32 – Available from Myer
To contrast the reddish brown liquid liner on my upper lashline, I’ve enjoyed using the Laura Mercier Longwear Cream Eye Pencil in Sage along the lower lashes. Sage is a dark olive green colour, and I feel that it the combination of the two colours really make the green colours of my eyes stand out a little more.
The eyeliner is such a joy to use, and applies easily without the need to drag or pull, yet it stays put all day, which is very rare for a kohl eyeliner.
RRP: $30 – Available from Adore Beauty
I absolutely adore this Rouge Eclat in Pink Berry from Clarins. This is a lip treatment and lipstick in one, as it is an Age-Defying Lipstick which contains Nutri-Youth Complex to help create younger-looking, fuller lips, all while giving the lips a gorgeous colour. The Pink Berry, is a gorgeous red toned colour, and is very pigmented so just a quick swipe will leave you will fully saturated colour with a nice satin sheen, perfect for both casual wear and a night out. It feels incredible comfortable to wear, and it has a long wear, but as it wears off, it leaves the lips feeling so soft and smooth.
And not to forget, it has the most divine scent that I just can’t get enough off! I’ve already got my eyes on a few other colours to add to my collection!
RRP: $38 – Available from Clarins counters and Adore Beauty
As a stay-at-home mum, I no longer have my hair coloured as
often as I used to – finding the time to sit in the chair at the hairdressers
for hours when you have a baby is a luxury that I often haven’t got. And that’s
why I’ll do anything to protect my hair colour by using products specifically
designed for coloured hair. This Pop & Lock from Color WOW is a clear gel
containing shimmers, and it contains shellac that adds a protective layer on the hair’s surface making the
hair colour pop and gives the hair an incredibly healthy shine at the same time
as it smoothes down any frizz. It also contains UV filters that helps prevent
the hair colour from fading. And always looking for multi-tasking products, I
love that it can be used in both wet hair, as well as to freshen up dry hair.
RRP:
$29.95 (55ml) – Available from Hairhouse Warehouse
I had never before heard of Pacifica Skincare when I was asked to trial this body butter. And now I feel I have a lot of catching up to do as this body butter is nothing short of divine. The last time I was on a tropical holiday is a very long time ago, in actual fact, it was in Fiji during 9-11! But this body butter transports you to that secluded tropical island as soon as you open the cream.
It simply smells incredible, beyond words. If you love frangipani and lime – which I are two of my all time favourite scents, then this will no doubt tick your boxes too. The cream leaves your skin feeling silky soft and smooth, and the scent more or less lingers for the rest of the day, which is pretty rare for a body butter. And then how cute is the floral box the cream comes in!
RRP: $20.95 (120gms) – Available from Pacifica Skincare
It has been awhile since this fragrance was launched, but nevertheless, it is a true classic. It is fresh and floral, sweet yet it is not sickly! It contains among others bitter orange and raspberry, neroli and jasmine and gardenia. As it is so floral and fresh it is perfect for daytime wear, yet as it also has such a depth, it is just as perfect for a night out.
And you know it is a quality perfume when it lasts all day, without really needing to respray (I can even smell it in my hair where it has brushed against my neck the following day) – Yet the small keychain is just so cute and gorgeous and perfect for the handbag, that I’ve found myself carrying it around regardless. I love it, and have already given my hubby subtle hints, so maybe one day I will get a full sized bottle..
RRP: $64 (Key Chain Travel Spray 10ml + 10ml refill) –
Available from Selected Myer and David Jones
One of the key thinks that bothers me about my skin is pigmentation, and I am forever in search of products which can help minimise it, and this serum has dramatically made a difference in the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation as well as minimised the look of pores and not to mention the amount of breakouts that I get - and just a month.
It I not a cheap serum, but it is really does deliver on its promises, so worth every cent! You can check out my full review here.
RRP: $100 (30ml) – Available from David Jones
BioElixia Body Shaper Stretch Mark Diminishing Cream*
I’ve never had a lot of stretchmarks, guess genes, and
regular exercise has kept it at bay. But then I got pregnant, and while I
didn’t get as many as I thought I would, and which I think would have been
normal considering my 14kgs weight gain, I still can’t say that I loved them.
The BioElixia Body Shaper Stretch Mark Diminishing Cream claims to help visibly
reduce stretchmarks by smoothing out their appearance and fading discoloration, by an
average of 46% after just 4 weeks of use, and 87% after 8 weeks of use. Pretty
impressive stats, don’t you think! I am not sure that I can see that the few stretchmarks
on in particularly my thighs and breasts have reduced by almost half in the
just over a month I’ve been using this cream – but I know that I can both see
and feel that there is a difference, and my skin feels super soft too, so the
$39 it is well worth it if you ask me.
RRP: $39 (125ml) – Available BioElixia
This cleanser helps clean the skin deep down every single pore, and detoxify it, leaving it ready for any treatment care. I have had a few issues with breakout the last few months, but I believe that this cleanser has helped get my skin back to normal again, as it has cleaned it so well from any makeup and excess sebum, yet without drying it out or irritating my skin. It easily removes even longwearing makeup, but I’ve been using it as the second cleanser to give my skin the good deep clean it has obviously needed. It is extremely concentrated, so just a small pump is more than sufficient.
RRP: $29.95
(100ml) – Available from Aphelia
* Products were kindly provided for consideration, and have
been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
Have you tried any of these products? Any that you’d like to try?
10 April 2014
Product Review: Ultraceuticals Even Skintone Serum
As I’ve mentioned
on quite a few occasions, one of my main skincare concerns, apart from
breakouts, is pigmentation, with it quite visible on both my forehead, chin and
on my cheeks, so I am forever in search for products that can help reduce its
appearance. Here are my thoughts on the *Ultraceutical Even Skintone Serum;
What They Say:
"Ultraceuticals Star Performer, Even Skintone Serum now comes with a new
and improved formula to give even better results. This enhanced formula gives
you a visibly brighter, smoother and more refined complexion. Regular use of
just 2-3 drops each application will dramatically diminish the look of
discolouration and pigmentation and reveal a brighter, smoother, strengthened
and clarified complexion and will enhance the benefits of all other
products which follow."
RRP: $100 (30ml) -
Available from David Jones, and UltraCeuticals Online
What I Say:
I’ve recently
fallen for the products from Ultraceuticals after trying among others the CC Powder Pure Mineral Foundation and the Ultra Body Moisturiser, so I was excited
to be trialling the Even Skintone Serum as well as I believe it is one of the
brands’ hero products.
The Ultraceuticals Even
Skintone products come in three different varieties which includes a mild, a
regular and a concentrate, while you may just think that you might as well jump
to the strongest strength for speedy results, Ultraceuticals does recommend
that you build up the strength of the products, especially if you are new to
them.
However, as my skin
is not sensitive in any way, and as I have used countless other pigmentation
products previously, I took a punt and tried out the serum, which is the medium
strength – and I am happy to say that I did not experience any irritation at
all from using the serum.
Similar for all three
products in the line is that they are based on high levels of powerful
ingredients including AHAs, BHA, Bearberry Extract and Niacinamide to
significantly reduce and brighten skintone for a more refined brighter
complexion.
The serum come in a
small bottle with a dropper, which makes it not only hygienic but also easy
dispense the two drops that is needed to cover the full face.
The actual serum
has the consistency of a thin liquid gel, and it is easy to apply all over the
face, avoiding the more sensitive eye area as recommended, and I apply it at
night time before bed and follow with my usual night cream.
It has a slight strange
chemical and alcoholic scent (it has a high contents of alcohol as this is
listed as the second ingredient on the ingredients list), but luckily the serum
absorbs instantly into the skin, and once it has, the smell also disappears.
Due to the high
level of alcohol, the serum is a little drying on the skin, which may cause an
issue for those with drier skin types, but applying the night cream afterwards
does counter this a little, although the it has also been a godsend for my
combination skin, which has been even more greasy and prone to breakouts
lately.
At $100 for a small
30ml bottle this is definitely in the pricier end for a serum, however, it
really is extremely concentrated, and using just two drops every night, the
bottle will seriously last you a long time – after using it nightly for just
over a month, I have well over two thirds of the bottle left!
So how did it fare
with the claims of significantly retexturing and brightening the skintone? I
have to say that I am impressed. Already after the first use, when I woke in
the morning, my skin was incredible soft and smooth and more glowing. And as
time has gone on, I have noted a clear difference in my pigmentation,
especially where I have larger darker spots and clusters of spots, these have significantly
reduced both in appearance, darkness and sizes. It also seems to have minimised
the appearance of marks from past acne, and then there’s the greasiness of my
skin, which seems to not only have normalised a bit, pores seems to have
reduced in size and I seem to be getting less breakouts as my skin is simply
less congested.
What I Like:
- Very concentrated
- Doesn’t irritate my skin
- Does what it promises in minimises the appearance of pigmentation
- Minimises pores and reduces breakouts
What I Don’t Like:
- A little expensive
- Does contain alcohol which may cause dryness for some skin types
Overall, I am very
impressed with this Even Skintone Serum from Ultraceuticals as it really does
deliver on the results, just as promised – and in such a short period of time.
I’m already excited at what continued use will do to my skin, as I imagine that
it will help dramatically reduce the unsightly pigmentation which I have been
fighting with for years and which makes my skin look so dull. So if you too
have pigmentation and are wanting to reduce pigmentation and uneven skintone,
then I highly recommend that you check out the Even Skintone range from
Ultraceuticals, I’m pretty sure you will be very impressed too!
*This product was kindly provided for consideration, and it
has been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
Have you ever tried
any of the products from Ultraceuticals? Do you suffer from pigmentation? What
do you use to help minimise its appearance?
19 February 2014
Product Review: Ultraceuticals Ultra Body Moisturiser
Today I’d like to share with you one of my newest
discoveries, the *Ultraceuticals Ultra Body Moisturiser;
What I Say:
My skin on my body is not particularly dry during summer –
actually, when the temperatures heat up, my skin seems to be getting greasier.
Yet I never omit using a body moisturiser when I’ve had a shower, as if I do, I
feel my skin becoming itchy. But sadly, many of the creams and lotions that I
use on my body throughout the year, which are perfectly fine and not too heavy
or greasy, suddenly become way too concentrated for my skin with the mercury
strikes.
The moisturiser has been cleverly developed to support the skin’s natural moisturising, and it also contains shea butter and glycerine to help keep the skin moisturised. It absorbs into the skin instantly, leaving it feel so deeply moisturised, yet without making it feel greasy or tacky. My skin is simply silky soft and smooth.
Have you ever tried any of the products from Ultraceuticals?
Which body moisturiser do you use?
What They Say:
"This
body moisturiser helps to balance and maintain the skin's optimum moisture
levels. Developed with a powerful blend of biomimetic moisturising agents
(Ceramide-3, Sodium PCA, Urea and Sodium Hyaluronate) to support the skin's own
Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF) combined with Shea Butter and Glycerin to
provide long-lasting hydration. Delicately fragranced with uplifting natural
botanical oils, this fast-acting, non-greasy formula will leave skin feeling
velvety soft, perfectly nourished and smooth."
RRP: $49.00 (200ml) – Available from Ultraceuticals, David Jones
and select stockists
What I Say:
Enter the Ultraceuticals Ultra Body Moisturiser. Ultraceuticals
is an Australian cosmeceutical brand founded by a cosmetic physician in 1998, with
the goal of having scientifically proven products addressing ageing,
pigmentation and acne. The products have been developed to include superior and
highly effective ingredients to create the most efficient products possible
without needing a prescription.
The moisturiser has been cleverly developed to support the skin’s natural moisturising, and it also contains shea butter and glycerine to help keep the skin moisturised. It absorbs into the skin instantly, leaving it feel so deeply moisturised, yet without making it feel greasy or tacky. My skin is simply silky soft and smooth.
The Body Moisturiser comes in a tube with a flip lid, making
it easy to use, and being designed to stand on its lid, it is easy to use up
every last drop of moisturiser as well.
It has a lovely and gentle floral scent, which however more
or less fades as soon as the cream has absorbed into the skin.
After having used the Body Moisturiser daily for several
weeks, my skin not only feels, it also looks healthier. Gone are the dry shins
(the only part of my body that is usually dry), and even my decollate, which is
starting to show the signs of ageing, looks so much nicer, with fine lines and
wrinkles appearing to be plumped out.
What I Like:
- Absorbs instantly into the skin
- Non-greasy
- Has a lovely gentle floral scent
- Products are Australian owned and made
What I Don’t Like:
- A little pricey
Overall this is such a nice Body Moisturiser, and I love how
it makes my skin feel and look. There is no denying that it is a little more
expensive than then body moisturisers that I usually use, but I can certainly
also tell the difference, so I wish my budget would allow for me to use this
all the time. If you afford it, it is well worth the splurge!
*This product was kindly provided for consideration, and it
has been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy. 29 November 2013
Product Review: Ultraceuticals CC Powder Pure Mineral Foundation
BB Creams have taken over the world the past year or two,
and now the new CC products , which stands for Colour Correction or Complete
Correction are following troop. Here are my thoughts on the *Ultraceuticals CC Powder Pure Mineral Foundation;
The powder
is easy to brush over the skin and easily covers smaller areas of redness,
pigmentation and uneven skin tone, although darker areas do need touch of
concealer. I have been using it on its own on the days I’ve only wanted a light
coverage, but for better coverage, I have also been using it on top of my tinted moisturiser
or foundation, and regardless the result it fantastic, it simply leaves my skin
with a nice glow and a silky soft appearance. While you can build up the coverage of the
powder by adding more layers, I still find that it only offers a light to
medium coverage.
What do you
think of this CC Foundation from Ultraceuticals? Do you use CC products? Or
Powder foundations?
What They Say:
"Featuring
Ultraceuticals unique anti-ageing triple-complex (Microelastin, Artocarpus
Extract and Vitamin B3) with conditioning ingredients (Vitamin C & E,
Bisabolol) this triple-milled pure mineral powder will visibly brighten, smooth
and even out the complexion, while giving the skin a healthy looking glow.
Airtight compact technology guarantees freshness and mess-free use. Free of
Parabens, Talcs and Preservatives. Suitable for all skin types, especially
sensitive."
RRP: $69 (12g) –
Available from Ultraceuticals online and select stockist in Australia and Overseas
What I Say:
The Ultraceuticals
CC Powder Pure Mineral Foundation comes in a sleek round compact with mirror
and a soft bristled applicator brush. The mirror is the size of the compact,
which makes it very useful, and the brush is of a good quality, which is a nice
change, as usually I find the brushes that come with powders, blushes etc. are
of average quality, and although I still prefer to use my own long-shafted
powder brushes, the small brush is still perfect for touch-ups on the go.
When I
first received the compact it took me a few minutes to work out how to open it,
but you simply twist it, so simple, yet it is closes securely so no need to
worry that it will pop open in your handbag.
I have a medium
neutral skin tone, and I tested shade 2, which is a perfect match.
It simply
provides a nice even coverage without looking cakey, and it means that my skin
stays looking matte all day, keeping any shine on particularly my t-zone area
at bay, even on my combination skin, and without settling into my fine lines
and wrinkles either.
With ageing
skin, I love the fact that this mineral powder has anti-ageing properties with the
included ingredients such as Vitamin B3, C and E, so it cares for my skin all
day long, making it feel so lovely to wear, and without drying out my skin
either.
The powder
is extremely fine milled, in fact, according to Ultraceuticals it is triple-milled,
which explains why it is so soft and silky and goes onto the skin so nicely.
I also love
the fact that it is free harsh chemicals including parabens as well as it is
free from talc, preservatives, dyes, bismuth and fragrances, and that the
products have not been tested on animals.
What I
Like:
- It comes in a gorgeous modern white compact with a large mirror and a quality brush
- It has anti-ageing properties caring for my skin while I wear it
- It is comfortable to wear and stays put all day, leaving my skin shine free without settling into fine lines
- Provides a nice even coverage
- Free from parabens, talc, preservatives. dyes, bismuth and fragrances, and has not been tested on animals
What I
Don’t Like:
- Unfortunately it doesn’t contain any SPF
- A little pricey
I would
like it to provide a little more coverage to be the foundation it claims to be,
but in saying that, I love using it as a powder on top of my existing
foundation.
Overall, I really love this foundation – although
while it is called a foundation, I would classify it more as a foundation as it
only provides a light coverage, and I generally do feel I require a better
coverage than it provides, so I will be using it on top of my normal
foundation.
But I so love using it as a setting powder and to
keep away any shine. It will be perfect heading towards a hot and humid summer,
and I know I will keep reaching for this again and again.
At $69 this
is not the cheapest foundation, but considering it is a triple-milled powder of
such high quality, it is in my opinion worth every cent.
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has
reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
©
The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter | All rights reserved.