Garnier Pure Active BHA+NIACINAMIDE Daily UV Fluid​

The Garnier Pure Active BHA+NIACINAMIDE Daily UV Fluid​ is the perfect sunscreen for those who not only want to mattify the skin with its invisible texture, but also improve imperfections by including the BHA salicylic acid and calming niacinamide. I do like Garnier's sunscreens especially the Ambre Solaire Ultra-Light Sensitive Face Fluid SPF50+ and the Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Fluid SPF50+ Invisible but this anti-blemish fluid is ideal for those who have an oiler skin type and even those who suffer with acne or spot-prone skin. Providing a very high protection of SPF50+ that protects the skin against UVA, UVB & long UVA rays, the formula is also non-comedogenic and is fragrance free!

Garnier Pure Active BHA+NIACINAMIDE Daily UV Fluid Ingredients: ​ AQUA / WATER, ALCOHOL DENAT., DIISOPROPYL SEBACATE, SILICA, ISOPROPYL MYRISTATE, ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE, ETHYLHEXYL TRIAZONE, BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE, BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE, GLYCERIN, NIACINAMIDE, PROPANEDIOL, C12-22 ALKYL ACRYLATE/ HYDROXYETHYLACRYLATE COPOLYMER, DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE, PERLITE, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, TOCOPHEROL, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, SODIUM BENZOATE, TRIETHANOLAMINE, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, SILICA SILYLATE, SALICYLIC ACID, ZINC PCA, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, TEREPHTHALYLIDENE DICAMPHOR SULFONIC ACID, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, SARCOSINE, CITRIC ACID, POTASSIUM SORBATE.

Presented in a squeezable and travel-friendly tube, it is important to apply the recommended amount which is the two finger rule (Index and Middle) covering the whole length of the fingers and then applying to the face and neck. Sunscreens should be the last step in your skincare routine (Before Makeup) and this does not disappoint because its lightweight texture glides over the skin with ease and absorbs quite quickly making it ideal for those mornings when your in a rush. I really like how there is no white cast and no residue after application, but love how this lightweight daily fluid keeps skin mattified and those oily t-zones under control!  Find out more here: Daily UV Fluid​ x Neil.

Jerome Russell Bblonde JPLEX

Founded in professional hair salons 30 years ago, Jerome Russell Bblonde is the UK's number one blonding range but now they have curated a new haircare range called JPLEX. Specifically formulated to penetrate the hair shaft to repair damaged bonds caused by colouring, heat styling and general environmental damage means all the products are able to provide protection whilst also strengthening and restoring. The numbered products within the range provide an easy step by step guide to follow and are suitable for all hair types and coloured hair. Disclaimer: I was sent the products for free but this does not influence my opinion written in this blog post.

Step One JPLEX 1 Bond Primer.

The sulphate-free JPLEX 1 Bond Primer is easily applied to dry hair, before shampooing, thanks to the nozzle applicator supplied. The water-like consistency easily drenched my hair from root to tip whilst gently combing with a tangle teezer to ensure every strand was saturated. The bonus points for this product is you don't have to clock-watch or rinse out before applying the next step as the primer prepares the hair for cleansing whilst the bond building technology repairs and strengthens,

Step Two JPLEX Bond Building Shampoo.

The sulphate-free and vegan-friendly JPLEX Bond Building Shampoo applied immediately after the primer is dispensed easily from the bottle with the pump applicator supplied. I only needed one pump dispensed as the shampoo does have a runny consistency but it gently lathers to saturate and cover the whole head for a gentle but effective cleanse. It does smells luxurious whilst rinsing out the hair easily and quickly whilst repairing and strengthening with its bond building technology.

Step Three JPLEX 3 Bond Building Conditioner.

Providing a deep conditioning treatment, the JPLEX 3 Bond Building Conditioner is the ideal product  to nurture, smooth, and seal the hair shaft for healthier looking and shinier hair. The pump applicator dispenses the appropriate amount to be applied from root to tip and should be left on for a minimum of ten minutes when used as a treatment mask. I noticed the instant buttery texture of my hair when it was rinsed out easily and i knew then this had deep conditioned extremely well with its bond building technology.

Step Four JPLEX 4 Bond Maintainer Spray. 

Spraying the hair, the JPLEX 4 Bond Maintainer Spray is your leave-in treatment that not only has that bond building technology, but its also has heat protection of up to 230˚C. The spray head delivers the perfect amount of product evenly over damp hair to strengthen hair bonds whilst also restoring natural elasticity to the hair. I like how quick this dries my hair whilst also keeping its style when using heat tools but it still works perfectly on those days i just allow my hair to air dry.

JPLEX Nourishing Hair Oil.

A perfect aftercare styling treatment following the 4-step JPLEX Bond Building range, the JPLEX Nourishing Hair Oil is versatile with what it offers, Dispensing 1-3 drops using the pipette dropper supplied, you can either apply to freshly washed, wet, or dry hair before styling because it does have heat protection. I typically apply this onto dry hair after styling because it adds smoothness, boosts shine, and overall conditions being a leave-in treatment, it even accomplishes being a great overnight hair oil as well. 

Affordable, easy to use, and leaves the hair feeling stronger and looking healthier, find out more about these great products here: JPLEX x Neil. 

Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Mascara

Replicating the impact of a firework in a tube, Maybelline have introduced their new lash sensational firework mascara to the makeup market. The innovative supershark plastic brush features bristles that are arranged in a spiral direction to offer a precise application that is clump-free, whilst easily separating each individual eye lash. The gel-based formula which is available in two versions of being waterproof, or not, features pro-vitamin B5 to nourish each lash and encourages your 360° lash impact for up to 24 hours with comfort. Disclaimer: I was sent this mascara for free, this does not influence my opinion shared in my blog post and the links in blue are not affiliated.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Mascara Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Propylene Glycol, Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Polyurethane-35, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Cera Alba / Beeswax, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Peg-200 Glyceryl Stearate, Ethylenediamine/Stearyl Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer, Copernicia Cerifera Cera / Carnauba Wax, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Ethylene/Va Copolymer, Alcohol Denat., Paraffin, Aminomethyl Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Butylene Glycol, Methylpropanediol, Xanthan Gum, Panthenol, Rayon, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Myristic Acid, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Tetrasodium Edta, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Potassium Sorbate, Silica, Phenylpropanol, Kaolin, Tin Oxide,  [+/- May Contain: Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499 / Iron Oxides, Ci 77891 / Titanium Dioxide, Ci 77007 / Ultramarines, Mica, Ci 75470 / Carmine, Ci 77288 / Chromium Oxide Greens, Ci 77742 / Manganese Violet, Ci 77510 / Ferric Ferrocyanide]. (F.I.L. Z70037276/4).

Presented in an eye-appealing pink colour, the outer design features grooves which help you grip and stop the mascara from falling out of your hands, whilst also it wont roll off any surfaces you place it on. Priming the brush with a few pumps and then applying to clean dry lashes, the brush glides from the bottom to the top of the lashes with ease. Separating each eyelash and creating height by its impressive flare action, it is important to remember to build-up your mascara layers, before your previous layer dries, for a more impressive look. One layer creates a natural fanned out look and then two or three layers creates that intense dramatic style, remember that black mascara is universally flattering for all eye colours and makes the eyes pop. 

Create your own flake/clump-free look and have fun playing with the brush and formula when applying the Lash Sensational Firework from Maybelline, priced at £12.99. Once opened make sure to use within 6 months, x Neil.  

Hydrate And Sun Protect Skin With Garnier

Keeping the skin hydrated and protected is essential for optimal skin health, Garnier offer affordable skincare products for all skin types and concerns. Cleansing the skin to remove impurities, pollution, and any previous products you can then proceed to tone, treat, hydrate, and then apply a broad-spectrum sun protection to protect from both UVA & UVB rays. I have previously reviewed Garnier products that can be found on my blog that i have purchased, disclaimer - the products featured in this blog post were sent to me for free that i did not have to review, but i like them so much i have chosen to include them on my blog. The links in blue are not affiliated and are just placed for you to discover the products quicker. 

Bringing the hair back and out of your face to apply specific products is made easier, thanks to the Garnier Good Squish that holds the hair in place. The handy hair helper should be handwashed in mild detergent whilst leaving to air-dry, do not tumble dry! To keep the shape of the 100% deadstock cotton and organza trim, you can iron using a little steam or you can place a heavy book over it and press down firmly, simple!     

Instantly hydrate and cool the skin, when applying the Anti-Fatigue Hyaluronic Acid & Icy Cucumber Cryo Jelly Face Mask. Placing the sheet mask on to cleansed skin, the vegan and second-skin formula cools the skin’s temperature by -7°C* whilst also minimising the signs of fatigue. Leaving on for 15 minutes, the formula contains 4% humectants and soothing ingredients to boost hydration and moisture for all skin types. Once the time is up and the sheet mask is taken off, you can either remove any residue with a cotton pad or massage any remaining product into the skin with your fingers. A hydrating and cooling sheet mask that hydrates and boosts moisture any season of the year, before applying any of your other skincare products.

Refreshing the under eye area with added hydration and soothing ingredients is accomplished easily when applying the Anti-Fatigue Hyaluronic Acid & Icy Cucumber Cryo Jelly Eye Patches. Applying after you have cleansed your skin, the jelly patches can either be used in the morning to awaken the eye area or in the evening to refresh before an occasion. Featuring the same 4% humectants and soothing ingredients just like the sheet mask, the jelly patches stay in place for 15 minutes to boost hydration and moisture whilst also cooling the skin’s temperature by -7°C*. Removing the patches, you can either remove any remaining product with a cotton pad or massage any remaining product into and around the eye area before following on with your current skincare products, 

Respectful of the skins barrier, the Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 effectively cleanses and soothes the skin whilst being able to remove water-proof makeup and sunscreens designed to stay on the skin. The micelles included act like magnets to capture and remove impurities, pollution, and face products whilst the added botanical glycerin included provides hydration and soothing properties. The no fragrance formula should be applied to a cotton or reusable pad and swiped over the face, eyes, and lips whilst no rinse-off is required. I personally like to cleanse my skin with a face cleanser but the micellar water is ideal for those who are travelling, for those who don't like using oil-balm cleansers, and is a perfect first cleanse to break-down stubborn water-proof products.

Enriched with Vitamin E and Beta-Carotene, Garnier Ambre Solaire Ideal Bronze Milk-In Spray SPF50 is a product to apply to help protect your skin from sun damage and photo-aging signs while also enhancing your tan. Resistant to sand, water, and sweat, the formula also protects against UVA and UVB rays when applied every 2 hours, though over exposure to the sun is dangerous and is advised not to stay exposed in the sun for a long period of time. Applying generously over the body from the spray applicator, the luxurious milky formula feels non-sticky, non-greasy, and has a transparent finish on the skin accompanied with a luxury fragrance. Perfect for those who want a high-protecting body sunscreen that leaves the skin with a soft and silky finish and not an uncomfortable one. 

Instant skin barrier protection is welcomed when applying the Super UV Daily Invisible Face Serum with SPF 50+ because the new formula is enriched with ceramide. Developed for the sensitive face area, it provides very high protection against UVB, UVA, and long UVA rays whilst also fighting against external aggressions and skin pollution. The non-greasy, non-sticky, and leaving no white marks when applied helps this invisible serum super UV be ideal for all skin tones. Presented in a pump bottle and applying the appropriate amount for maximum protection, the lightweight texture glides over the skin with ease before absorbing quickly leaving no trace of itself. Highly recommended if your wanting a lightweight and nude skin feel SPF to use daily and under makeup.

Intensely hydrating and smoothing the skin, the Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV SPF 50+ Hydrating Protection Fluid provides a broad spectrum protection against UVB, UVA, and Long UVA rays. Formulated with 3% Glycerin, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid the non-greasy and non-sticky fluid is ideal for drier skin types, whilst it also helps fight against oxidative stress due to pollution. Shaking the bottle and dispensing two finger lengths (index and middle) to the face and neck, the fluid instantly absorbs with an invisible finish and no white cast. Ideal for all skin tones and the bottle being travel-friendly, this no-fragrance protection fluid should be applied as the last step in your skincare routine and applied before makeup.

Reapplication of sun protection is made easier when using the Garnier Ambre Solaire Over Makeup Super UV Protection Mist SPF50. Broad spectrum protection against UVB, UVA, and Long UVA rays is provided whilst the formulation also contains 6% Glycerin, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration. Applied before makeup or after, the weightless and non-greasy texture feels comfortable on the skin when spraying over the face and neck with your eyes closed and your lips pinched together. The invisible finish is suitable for all skin tones and is ideal for anyone who wants to reapply their sun protection throughout the day, even if they are wearing or not wearing makeup.

Easily Hydrate and Sun Protect your skin with the Garnier products mentioned above, the links in blue are not affiliated and are only placed for you to discover the products quicker, x Neil. 

REN Evercalm™ Sensitive Skin Collection

The Evercalm™ range from REN consists of products to equalise the skins natural balance resulting in neutralising irritations and redness while restoring the skins comfort. Sensitive skin is a genetic skin type that can lead to skin irritations as well as Psoriasis, eczema and rosacea while the condition "Sensitized skin" is triggered by external factors such as strong skincare products that have damaged the protective lipid barrier of the skin. A compromised skin barrier can feel uncomfortable with signs of stinging, burning, itchiness, redness or tightness whilst also presenting itself as overly dry, inflamed, sensitive and with breakouts. Impaired to perform its normal function to act as a barrier against the world around you, irritants and allergens are able to get in and cause more inflammation while also trans-epidermal water loss happens by the moisture escaping and evaporating quicker. Certain factors can play a role in why the skin barrier is compromised such as eczema and atopic dermatitis, age, environmental factors and even skincare products such as harsh cleansers and exfoliating acids. Sensitised skin is treatable and can be nourished back to an improved state of health while its important to seek and use products labelled specifically for sensitive skin to manage irritations and flare-ups. 

Formulated with specific ingredients to support, strengthen and repair the barrier function of the skin the REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Barrier Support Elixir is the ideal product to include in your skincare routine. The ren barrier support elixir is presented in a recyclable glass bottle accompanied with a dropper which is made from post-industrial recycled plastic, but is not currently recyclable. The fragrance-free and microbiome friendly formula contains seven natural oils that when combined together they all work to intensively nourish and replenish the skin, but also repair and strengthen the barrier function. Cleansing the skin and then applying your chosen water serum to aid and add hydration, the next step is to then apply the REN evercalm barrier support elixir to seal in the moisture. I dispense 5 drops into the palm of my hands and slightly warm the oil to aid in absorption, you can then press and pat your hands into your face, neck and décoletté making sure to cover all those areas. The other multifunctional ways to use it are either apply it first to the skin after cleansing or add a few drops into your day and night cream and mix together, though this method can be tedious if your moisturiser contains silicones because you may experience piling or balling up. I was amazed on how quickly the oil absorbs to instantly help the skin feel supple while also leaving no greasy residue, just perfectly nourished and happy skin. A lovely light-weight and fragrance-free oil that does not disrupt the skins natural microbiome but does help support, strengthen, and repair the barrier function.

The REN Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream helps protect the skin against dehydration and shield from pollution by utilising a synergetic blend of a powerful antioxidant and free radical scavengers, together with soothing and nourishing seed oils to help calm, lock-in moisture, and reduce sensitivity. In fact, the formulation contains REN’s Global Protection Complex which consists of Cranberry Seed Oil, Candle Tree Leaves, Ochorleuca Seaweed and Kudzu Zumbiozome Fermentum that work in synergy to protect, repair and alleviate damage caused by daily skin aggressors such as pollutants and free radicals. Presented in a opaque bottle with a pump dispenser, it is ideal to use two pumps onto cleansed skin and gently massage into the face and neck. The rich and emollient comforting cream glides over the skin with ease and absorbs beautifully to leave the skin feeling perfectly nourished thanks to the Sea Buckthorn Oil included without that greasy or sticking feeling some rich creams can leave behind. Ideal for dehydration and dryness, whilst also helping to reduce sensitivity and redness, the formulation also contains Blackcurrant Seed Extract to help replenish and support the barrier function of the skin. I did apply this on its own, over the ren barrier support elixir, and under many sunscreens, it still works beautifully to nourish and nurture the skin throughout the day.     

The REN Evercalm Overnight Recovery Balm utilises Almond/Borage/Linseed/Olive Acids/Glycerides which are a mixture of mono-, di-, and triglycerides with fatty acids that have been enzymatically activated for better acceptance by the skin to provide emollience, skin conditioning, and antioxidant properties while also supporting and repairing a compromised lipid barrier function. The night-time balm also contains other soothing ingredients to reduce irritations associated with dryness while also boosting the skins protective barrier to stop moisture-loss for an improved moisture balance. The REN Evercalm™ Overnight Recovery Balm is presented in recyclable packaging (a jar and cap lid) and you receive 30ml of product inside. The many ways you can use the balm is entirely up to you by applying all over to a freshly cleansed skin, after your serum to seal over moisture, or over any actives such as a retinol or tretinoin - remembering to wait at least 20/30 minutes to allow the skin to absorb these actives before applying any other skincare product. You can also take a little of the balm and apply to chapped lips to soothe or any other dry areas such as the elbows and knees to relieve any dryness and tightness of the skin. I was really impressed on how little you need on application while it spreads easily over the skin and then absorbs quickly to leave the skin feeling nourished, without any oily or greasy feeling. It is definitely one of those products you need in your skincare collection that helps relieve stressed and sensitised skin, whether that be due to seasonal changes or using products that can influence your barrier function for the worse, reach for this plant-based oil balm that actually feeds the skin rather than a product that just serves as a barrier and does nothing else.

Discover the whole Ren Skincare range here: Evercalm Sensitive Skin Collection x Neil.