paula's choice multi-level exfoliation trial kit

Expertly resurface the skin while still respecting the barrier function when incorporating the Paula's Choice multi-level exfoliation trial kit into your skincare routine. I am a huge fan of exfoliation because not only does it revive dull complexions by breaking the bonds of dead skin cells, but it can also unclog and remove impurities from the pores, whilst also helping to dimmish fine lines. The great thing about the trial kit is that not only do you receive the oil-soluble BHA (BETA HYDROXY ACID) that works on the surface of the skin and also the pores, but also included is a water-soluble AHA (ALPHA HYDROXY ACID) with specific ingredients to not only exfoliate but also target discoloration for an improved skin tone while also supporting and improving the microbiome of the skin. Disclaimer: Discount code with affiliated link is at the end of my blogpost. 

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.

The leave-on BHA exfoliant has an optimal pH range of 3.2-3.8 for maximum results, but without any irritation that sometimes occurs when using exfoliating products. Applying after cleansing either using your fingers or saturating a cotton pad, apply over the whole face, neck, and eye area but avoid the lash line and eyelids. I was really impressed with how it absorbs really quickly, without leaving any residue of stickiness or tackiness, while leaving the skin feeling clean but not stripped of its moisture. It is important to apply every other day to begin with, to note what your skins response is, and then you can introduce this brilliant exfoliant into your skincare routine more frequently. I use this in the morning after cleansing, followed by my skincare products, and then a broad-spectrum SPF50 which is must! Available in the sizes 30ml, 118ml, 238ml, 

The full ingredient list:

Aqua, Methylpropanediol (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid, exfoliant), Polysorbate 20 (stabilizer), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (skin calming/antioxidant), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancer), Tetrasodium EDTA (stabilizer).

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 6% Mandelic + 2% Lactic Acid AHA Liquid Exfoliant.

The leave-on AHA exfoliant is a gentle form of exfoliation by the larger molecule of mandelic and a time release of lactic acid, but the yarrow extract and a fermented blend of antioxidant plant extracts also supports a healthier microbiome with skin renewal benefits. Applying a coined sized amount after cleansing to the face, but avoiding the lower lash line and eyelids, it absorbs quite quickly leaving the skin feeling perfectly hydrated. It is important to apply once every other day and then see how your skin reacts, and if used in the mornings after cleansing then apply a broad-spectrum SPF. I typically use this in the evenings to brighten and support the skins renewal process overnight whilst it works perfectly in conjunction with my evening skincare routine. Available in the sizes 30ml and 80ml   

The full ingredient list:

Aqua (Solvent), 2,3-Butanediol (Skin conditioning agent), Mandelic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy acid), Lactic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy acid), Sodium Hydroxide (Solvent), Myrica Cerifera (Bayberry) Fruit Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Akebia Quinata Stem Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Prunus Lannesiana Flower Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate (Skin conditioning agent), Saccharomyces Lysate (Skin conditioning agent), Achillea Millefolium Extract (Skin conditioning agent), Saccharide Isomerate (Skin conditioning agent), Arginine (Skin conditioning agent), Hydroxyacetophenone (Antioxidant), Butylene Glycol (Humectant), Sodium Phytate (Chelating agent), Pentylene Glycol (Humectant), Xanthan Gum (Antioxidant), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Sodium Citrate (Buffering agent), 1,2-Hexanediol (Skin conditioning agent), Caprylyl Glycol (Skin conditioning agent), Sodium Benzoate (Preservative).

The Paula's choice trial kit is a great choice to try out both exfoliating products before buying the full-sized versions. Purchase here: Multi-Level Exfoliation Trial Kit 

Don't forget to use my discount code on all Paula's Choice full-priced products at the checkout: DUEL10-KRNN59K6G9 x Neil. 

REN Clean Skincare Bio Retinoid™ Youth Serum

Utilising specific ingredients in it's formulation to improve skin concerns, the Bio Retinoid™ Youth Serum from REN Clean Skincare is certainly one to consider adding into your morning and evening skincare routine. The plant-based bio-retinol included is the multitasking Bidens Pilosa that not only has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties but it also contains phytanic acid that influences the retinoid receptors in our skin. Boosting collagen, elasticity, and also firmness this specific ingredient helps fight against free radicals, controls oil production, and is also helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation. The retinoid-like action is certainly one to consider if you have used Vitamin A's (retinoids) before, but you have suffered with irritation or sensitivity and your skin has said no thank you. Including humectants and emollients, the formula also features niacinamide (Vitamin B3) that not only improves skin tone and texture but it also boosts collagen production and repairs/supports the barrier function of the skin for better hydration. Derived from plants and can also be found in plant oils "Phytoceramides" are also added in the formulation to boost and support the skin's barrier function, reduce irritation, and importantly moisturise reducing the appearance of dehydration and fine lines.

REN Clean Skincare Bio Retinoid™ Youth Serum Ingredients:

Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Cetyl Phosphate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Squalane, Cetyl Alcohol, Arginine, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Triticum Vulgare/Aestivum (Wheat) Grain Extract, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Benzyl Alcohol, Astrocaryum Murumuru Seed Butter, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Bidens Pilosa Extract, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Sclerotium Gum, Parfum* (Fragrance), Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Dehydroacetic Acid, Rosa Damascena Extract, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil, Beta-Carotene, Xanthophylls, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Citronellol, Geraniol, Linalool * 100% Natural Fragrance​

Cleansing the skin morning and evening, the Bio Retinoid™ Youth Serum can be the next product applied or after your toner, if you choose to use one. The pump dispenser delivers the appropriate amount to apply, i typically use 1-2 pumps with each application, and i really like the emollient creamy texture that instantly hydrates when gliding over the skin and even the eye area. Absorbing quickly to leave the skin feeling perfectly nourished, the serum does not leave the skin feeling greasy or sticky and does not pill or ball-up when applying moisturiser over the top. I always believe hydrated skin is happy skin and this serum performs perfectly in not only delivering that promise but also brightening for an even skin-tone whilst also firming when applied any season of the year. Find out more here: Bio Retinoid™ age confidence range and the serum here: Bio Retinoid™ Youth Serum x Neil. 

NARS Cosmetics Iconic Products

Discover a selection of NARS cosmetics iconic products that have become extremely popular in most people's makeup collection. The innovative products have gained a cult following due to not only how easy they are to use, but also how they deliver on their promises when applied. Disclaimer: The products were sent to me for free, but this does not influence my opinion written in my blog post. 

NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation.

Available in 36 shades, the breathable and buildable medium coverage foundation instantly blurs imperfections, smooths the look of textured skin, and helps conceal blemishes, dark spots, and redness. Including advanced skincare ingredients in the formulation also contributes in helping defend against environmental aggressors and blue light, whilst also strengthening the skin’s barrier to help maintain its moisture for better hydrated skin. Shaking the glass bottle before applying 1-2 pumps over your sunscreen or desired primer, starting at the centre of the face and using your fingertips or buffing brush, the easily spreadable foundation instantly awakens the skin, without looking cakey or feeling sticky. The vegan-friendly formula is also non-acnegenic, so won’t clog pores if you suffer with acne or spot-prone skin, and is the perfect foundation for those who are wanting a natural finish foundation with added skincare benefits, as always play around with a new foundation to see how the formula works for you and your skin type. Purchase Here: NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer.

Available in 30 shades, the medium and buildable formula provides hydrating, multi-action skincare benefits with light diffusing technology. Brightening, correcting, and perfecting the skin, the concealer is able to color correct imperfections (not hide), dark circles, and fatigue which can appear under the eye area and can even be used as a highlighter and contour product. Including an antioxidant-rich multi-active botanical blend of ingredients in the formula not only helps protect the skin from free-radical damage, but the blend also contributes to hydrating, firming, and improving the skins barrier function for improved hydration.  Applying on its own or after foundation, the doe foot applicator allows precise application to a certain area with its luxurious texture gliding over the skin with ease and leaving a luminous finish that is crease-proof and does not feel heavy or drying. Apply a little to begin with and if you need more coverage than just add a tiny bit more, with any concealer everyone's skin is different so play around to find out how much you need to apply on days you want to wear it on its own or with a foundation mentioned above. Purchase Here: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder.

Available in 4 shades, the translucent and luminous finish powder not only locks makeup in place all day, but it also features Photochromic Technology. Creating a soft-focus effect whilst adjusting to all sources of light, it also defends the skin against blue light and environmental pollution. The no-flashback formula (ideal for photos) features mineral powders with added hydrators glycerine and vitamin e to maintain moisture levels throughout the wear time, ideal for those who apply powders and feel the moisture suck right out of their skin. The talc-free and vegan-friendly powder is easy to apply by using a powder brush and sweeping over the t-zone or entire face, whilst a powder puff or precision brush using a pressing or rolling action to areas such as the under eye-area will give a more direct application. The mesh sifter is perfect in delivering the amount of powder with each application for a natural and luminous finish, but with all powders i would suggest experimenting with it on application as some people need little or more depending on your skin type. Purchase Here: NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder

NARS Climax Mascara.

Available in a mini or regular size, the climax mascara effortlessly builds length and volume to each lash with its blackened pigments from root to tip. Featuring a full-bodied brush with ribbed bristles that loads the brush perfectly with the lash moisture complex formula, you will find the creamy texture of the mascara will separate and build volume without feeling heavy or sticky. It is also resistant to smudging, clumping, and the dreaded flaking that you may experience with some mascaras when applied, and after, throughout the day or night. Creating volume is easy by starting with the top eyelashes and wiggling the brush through before then concentrating application on just the root and outer corner lashes. Extra lift is achievable by placing the wand through the lashes but holding it there for 5 seconds, whilst creating a dramatic look on the bottom lashes is really easy using the tapered end featured on the mascara wand. I would recommend when using any new mascara to make sure your eyelashes are clean to begin with and then practice with your applications to see what looks you can and want to create when using this easy to use mascara. Purchase Here: NARS Climax Mascara

NARS Afterglow Lip Balm.

Available in 9 shades, the afterglow lip balm not only delivers a tint of sheer colour with a subtle shine, but the formula also features a Monoï Hydrating Complex. Incorporating Coconut Oil, Gardenia Tahitensis Flower Extract, and Squalene to help keep the lips feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated with added antioxidant protection. Applying over the lips for a natural moisturising look or used as a base, it can also be applied over any lip colour to amp up the shine and illumination, whilst also applying to the high points of your cheeks using your fingers for a natural-looking and shimmer-free highlight. I love the sheer wash of colour these lip balms create but also how the formula absorbs and hydrates the lips when they are in need of a comforting and nourishing treatment. Purchase Here: NARS Afterglow Lip Balm  

See the full range of NARS cosmetics to discover your very own iconic products here: NARS cosmetics x Neil. 

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.