I have combination skin that seems to break out every winter. I tend to mix up my beauty regime to try to combat this, as I find that the more dry my skin becomes, the more in breaks out...it's a lose-lose situation.
For the past few months, I have been using a few new (to me) British brands including Neom Organics and Liz Earle. I've also discovered that the brilliant 100% organic Australian brand,
Grown Skincare is now available in the UK (hurruh!). Here is what I'm currently using and my thoughts on them:
Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish: My manager (and QVC queen) loves this stuff. I kept reading about it and then finally decided to purchase a limited edition kit at Christmas. It is lovely and creamy and cleanses make-up off with ease using a hot-cloth (or face washer). I don't love the eucalyptus smell of this a whole lot, but it's quite nice to steam your face with in the bath.
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Toner: I've never been a fan of toner until I discovered this. I've been using it for one year, so it goes a long way. The creamy consistency leaves skin feeling moisturised and properly clean (removing the last of make-up residue) while prepping your skin for moisturiser perfectly.
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream: This cream is a staple in my bathroom cabinet which is no surprise considering it's a Kiehl's best seller. It's light and doesn't have a strong smell like other moisturisers.
ESPA 24-hour replenishing eye cream: The only eye cream I've ever used that doesn't burn my eyes, it contains Ginkgo Biloba helps minimise fine lines and stimulate microcirculation
to reduce puffiness and dark circles. Antioxidant-rich Mimosa and
Evening Primrose hydrate and protect against the elements to help
prevent the early signs of ageing.
Grown Camellia and Geranium Blossom Moisturiser: This face moisturiser smells divine. It is a very light consistency and rubs in well. I tend to use this at night at the moment as it's not thick enough for day at the moment, but it will be fab come spring/summer.
Neom Organics Lavender, Jasmine & Brazilian Rosewood Body Oil: A lush body oil (similar to Nuxe's
Prodigieuse) this oil is perfect for pre-bed hydrating after a soak in the bath. The organic Safflower and Jojoba are
rich in vitamins A & E as well as essential fatty acids which help
with skin repair and softness.
Neom Organics Moroccan Blush Rose Body Lotion: A richer lotion than I would use in summer,
this lotion is a blend of vitamin A & E packed Shea butter, Macadamia nut & Rosemary Leaf. It smells divine (as do all Neom products) and soaks in quickly for a non-sticky feeling.
Lucas Paw Paw Cream: My mum used to use this for breastfeeding in the 80's, so I've never really used it until I grabbed a huge at the airport last year. I don't love it on my lips, but when my nose recently looked like a peeling car crash from an awful cold, this fixed it straight away.
Burt's Bees lip balm: I recently discovered that the lip balms I use (including my favourite, Carmex) are not good for your lips. I've since switched to the natural Burt's Bees and am now wondering why I didn't try it earlier...it's lovely and thick, and moisturises my dry 'winter' lips.
Nuxe Masque Frais Hydratant: I've traditionally only used anti-acne facial masks, but I love this to plump up dry and tired skin. You simply apply for 10mins and wipe off with toner or rub into skin for extra hydration.
What is your favourite winter beauty product? NHG x
