Expert reviews: Skin care edition

Complexion looking a little dull? On the hunt for a new multi-tasking skin saviour? Or perhaps a cream to keep those wrinkles at bay? Our face is probably the thing we pay most attention to when it comes to beauty, which is why there are so many products to choose from. But lucky for you, this week’s edition of Expert Reviews is all about the face. So whether you’re after a cleanser, oil, cream or mask - we’ve helped you to narrow down to some of the good ones.

philosophy renewed hope in a jar

bh’s Debbie says...

My skin has been quite dehydrated of late so I was very excited to try this product, as it boasts three sources of hydration. The cream has a lightweight texture with a somewhat luminous look to it. When I applied it to my skin, it absorbed straight away, which I LOVED because it meant no greasy residue and also that I could layer it on as a moisture mask if need be. Although the formula contains alpha hydroxy acid, it didn't tingle at all and felt very gentle and comfortable on my skin. It definitely leaves my face feeling more soft and supple and even blurs my fine lines - most likely because my skin's dehydration was making them look more prominent!. I feel it gave my face a healthier 'glow' overall - whether that's from the added hydration or the AHAs, I'm not sure, but I'm enjoying it! The only reason I've deducted a point is because it's in a jar and personally I prefer my moisturiser to have a pump dispenser.

Environ Intensive Revival Masque

bh’s Yelena says…

I’ve been a big fan of Environ since first discovering their AVST range just over a year ago. I’m all for products that pack a powerful punch, and these did exactly that with their targeted levels of vitamin A (an amazing anti-ageing ingredient). But while I was very impressed with the AVST products, I think I’ve definitely stumbled upon the queen bee of the Environ range: the Intensive Revival Masque. It promises to revitalise and smooth skin’s texture, and after just one use, I could see a visible change in my skin. It felt softer, looked tighter, and appeared more hydrated. Ticks all round! While the product can be used all year round, it is recommended to be applied during autumn and winter. As a bit of a rule breaker, I have been using it over the summer period - I just do it on a Sunday night when I know my face isn’t going to see much sunlight until the next weekend (#officelife).

Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+

bh’s Carli says…

Like almost anyone who has never tried a facial oil before, I was nervous to give this one a go. Honestly, I was convinced that a) I'd end up with oil all over my pillows and b) I'd wake up to pimples. In an excellent turn of events, neither of those things happened and I was pleasantly surprised by this product. You only need two or three drops (I used three - two wasn’t enough for my giant face, apparently), and the liquid absorbs very quickly. My skin didn't feel greasy or oily after application, just hydrated. After a few days of use, I noticed my skin started to feel more supple, and I even found my foundation was gliding on easier. Some people may not be a fan of the scent, but I am. It reminds me of going to have a professional facial.

QV Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser

bh’s Rosie says…

As someone with super sensitive skin, it's important to me to have gentle yet effective skin care products in my arsenal, and that’s why I fell in love with this cleansing foam. The great thing about this cleanser is that it's self-foaming, so I don't need to lather it up in my hands first. One to two pumps is enough to cover my face, and it continues to foam as I massage it into my skin, so I know it's working hard to lift make-up, dirt and grime. After rinsing, my skin feels seriously soft and clean, but most of all, it's calm, soothed, and moisturised. It's a definite must-have for sensitive-skinned ladies searching for effective products at an affordable price point.

Have you tried any of the above products? If not, which one would you most like to try?

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