Skin&Lab Retinol Repair Serum

Ideal for all skin types, the Skin&Lab Retinol Repair Serum contains Vegan Liposome Retinol 3%, Bakuchiol, and also 9 different peptides in its serum-enriched formulation. Targeting fine lines and wrinkles whilst also helping to firm and improve elasticity, the other added benefit is its soothing action that does not aggravate spot-prone skin by it calming and reducing irritation. Presented in an airtight bottle with pump dispenser that stops the formula degrading from air, the packaging also protects the formulation from light which is also important for the retinol repair serum to work at its intended potency, read on to see how it performed. 

Skin&Lab Retinol Repair Serum Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Squalane, Methylpropanediol, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, Betaine, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Glucose, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Tromethamine, Xanthan Gum, Fructose, Fructooligosaccharides, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Retinol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Cholesterol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Chitosan, Beta-Glucan, Tris(Tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Carbomer, Sodium Lactate, Bakuchiol, Polysorbate 20, Tocopherol, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, sh-Decapeptide-7, sh-Octapeptide-4, sh-Polypeptide-1, sh-Polypeptide-22, sh-Oligopeptide-1, sh-Polypeptide3, sh-Oligopeptide-2

Applying 1-2 pumps to freshly cleansed skin, you can use this serum morning and night (according to the directions) but if used during the day make sure you apply a broad-spectrum SPF over the top. I only apply Vitamin A products at night because it breaks down in sunlight (daytime) and can make your skin more prone to damage. I love how moisturising the serum feels on application whilst it glides over the skin with ease and absorbs quite quickly, leaving no residue or a greasy feeling. I typically wait 10-15 minutes before applying a moisturiser and wake up to softer and smoother skin in the morning with continued use. 

The Skin&Lab Retinol Repair Serum is ideal for those who want to use a liposome retinol that maximises its potency and effectiveness in absorption by the skin. but the formula also includes those added peptides and bakuchiol! Priced at £17.88 and available here: Skin&Lab Retinol Repair Serum Use my discount code BLONDEMALE1 on all products at the checkout, x Neil. 

REN Skincare Radiance PHA Exfoliating Facial

Smooth and brighten the skin for a more refined looking complexion when incorporating the Ren Radiance PHA Exfoliating Facial into your skincare routine. The triple-action 2 minute exfoliating treatment combines a naturally derived and vegan form of PHA (Gluconic Acid) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells whilst also removing impurities. The formula also includes Pomegranate Enzymes that breakdown and digest dead skin cells on the skins surface whilst a physical exfoliation is included by the gentle but effective Pomegranate Powder that you activate by gently buffing over and into the skin with your fingers on application. 

Resurfacing and refining the skins texture the REN Radiance PHA Exfoliating Facial ingredients list: Aqua (Water), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Lactobacillus/Punica Granatum Fruit Ferment Extract, Glyceryl Stearate, Punica Granatum Seed Powder, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Mauritia Flexuosa Fruit Oil, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Olus (Vegetable) Oil, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Sucrose Stearate, Niacinamide, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Inulin, Phenoxyethanol, Stearyl Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Coco Glucoside, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Cera, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Coconut Alcohol, Parfum (Fragrance), Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Cera, Saccharide Isomerate, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Lactobacillus Ferment, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Fructose, Tocopherol, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Sodium Phytate, , Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Glycine, Soja (Soybean) Oil, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Glucose, Alcohol, Limonene, Linalool, Citral

Cleansing the skin before applying the product is essential in prepping the skin to allow maximum results and i typically use any exfoliation method in the evening. The squeezable tube allows perfect dispensing of the product which should be applied to damp skin using circular motions whilst avoiding direct contact with your eyes. I love the creamy and slightly gritty texture that is accompanied with a fruity citrus fragrance but the true transformation is when the product is rinsed off with warm water to reveal softer, smoother, and brighter skin. Applying 2-3 times a week, the exfoliating facial product is ideal for those looking for a chemical, enzymatic, and physical exfoliation treatment that is not only gentle but fits perfectly into anyone's skincare routine and it only takes 2 minutes!

Priced at £34.00 and available here: Ren Radiance PHA Exfoliating Facial x Neil.

ongredients Skin Barrier Calming Lotion

The ongredients Skin Barrier Calming Lotion expertly soothes irritated and unhappy skin with the Centella Asiatica Extract included, but also featured in the fluid formula is the patented technology NC P-Complex that helps to support the skin barrier function whilst a 9-Peptide Complex forms a moisture barrier to keep the skin hydrated, for longer. The ongredients lotion is ideal for you if you have previously tried lotions before but have not found them hydrating enough and if you find face creams too thick, heavy, and suffocating for your skin-type and concerns. 

ongredients Skin Barrier Calming Lotion Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Phenyl Trimethicone, C14-22 Alcohols, Polysorbate 60, Arginine, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Corchorus Olitorius Leaf Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Extract, Borago Officinalis Extract, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glucose, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tripeptide-1, Copper Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-9, Hexapeptide-11, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5

The lotion is not heavy or greasy but perfectly light in texture with a refreshing and hydrating finish that does not overload the skin with product. Applying after your toner, essence, or serum you can apply one layer to replenish the skins moisture balance followed by another application to really help the skin feel supple and firm. I really like how this lotion hydrates and moisturises the skin perfectly under any sunscreen during the day and over any actives such as vitamin A's at night, whilst easily caring for the skin and improving its barrier function in any climate/season of the year!

Priced at £21.17 for 220ml and available here: ongredients Skin Barrier Calming Lotion Use my discount code BLONDEMALE1 on all products you purchase x Neil. 

Garnier Skin Active Hyaluronic Aloe Soothing Cream Cleanser

Gentle but effective, the Garnier Skin Active Hyaluronic Aloe Soothing Cream Cleanser deeply cleanses, hydrates, and replumps the skin from the very first time you use it. The gentle pH neutral and vegan formula is sulphate-free whilst also being microbiome friendly, which means it does not disturb the microbial balance of the skin supporting the skin barrier function. Gently breaking-down and removing face products from the skin such as makeup and sunscreens, the cream cleanser features the hydrating ingredients hyaluronic acid and glycerin with also Aloe Vera that soothes and refreshes.

The full ingredients of the Garnier Skin Active Hyaluronic Aloe Soothing Cream Cleanser.

Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Glycol Distearate, Triethyl Citrate, Peg-55 Propylene Glycol Oleate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Coco-Betaine, Propylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Acrylates Copolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Benzoic Acid, Parfum / Fragrance (F.I.L. Z70034331/2).

Presented in a recyclable 250ml pump bottle, the cream transforms to a gel cleanser when applying one pump to wet skin. It slightly foams when massaging into and around the face with a slight fragrance while the label suggests to avoid the eye area, it will slightly sting the eyes as i found out. I was impressed in how well this cleanses the skin without over-stripping it and it made my skin feel smooth and soft when rinsed off and dried. The affordable cleanser is ideal for those who are looking for a face wash to remove impurities whilst also leaving the skin feeling perfectly hydrated and soothed. Priced at £9.99 the Garnier Skin Active Hyaluronic Aloe Soothing Cream Cleanser is available here: Boots and LOOKFANTASTIC x Neil. 

Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Fluid SPF50 Invisible

Expertly protecting the skin from UV exposure, the Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Fluid SPF50+ Invisible provides broad spectrum protection against UVA, UVB & long UVA rays. The chemical filter sunscreens included are also combined with the vitamin c derivative Ascorbyl Glucoside that provides antioxidant, collagen boosting, and improving skintone benefits. Included also are the petides PALMITOYL TETRADEDTIDE-7 and PALMITOVL TRIPEPTIDE-1 that both work in synergy together (known as Matryxil 3000) to stimulate collagen and help to rejuvenate the overall appearance of the skin. Hydration is also aided by the Hyaluronic Acid included whilst the Salicylic Acid in the formula protects the skin from UV damage by inhibiting UVB-induced sunburn cell formation.

The full Ingredients of the Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Fluid SPF50 Invisible.

AQUA/ WATER, ALCOHOL DENAT., DIISOPROPYL SEBACATE, SILICA, ISOPROPYL MYRISTATE, ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE, BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE, ETHYLHEXYL TRIAZONE BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOLMETHANE GLYCERIN, PHENYLBENZIMIDAZOLE SULFONIC ACID, PROPANEDIOL, C12-22 ALKYL ACRY LATE/ HYDROXYETHYLACRYLATE COPOLYMER, TRIETHANOLAMINE. DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE. CITRUS LIMON FRUIT EXTRACT / LEMON FRUIT EXTRACT CARBOMER, SODIUM HYALURONATE, SODIUM LACTATE, SILICA SILYLATE, CELLULOSE PALMITOYL TETRADEDTIDE-7 PALMITOVL TRIPEPTIDE-1, TROMETHAMINE, ADENOSINE, ASCORBYL GLUCOSIDE, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE CAPRYLOYL SALICYLIC ACID, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, POLYSORBATE 20, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, TOCOPHEROL, LINALOOL, GERANIOL, LIMONENE. CITRAL.PARFUM / FRAGRANCE.

Presented in a squeezable tube with a twist off lid, it is recommended to apply two finger lengths to the face and neck. The texture is not a runny fluid like the Garnier Ambre Solaire face fluids that you shake, but more of a richer fluid like a moisturiser. I was impressed with this texture because it allows you to ensure full coverage with every application. It spreads evenly over the skin and dries down and absorbs quickly with an invisible finish! It doesn't leave the skin feeling sticky or greasy and does not pil or ball-up under makeup. You can either use this as a moisturiser over your serum (ideal for summer) or over your current moisturiser (ideal for winter) but it's a great broad-spectrum sunscreen that fits perfectly into your skincare regime to protect the skin against sun damage. Priced at £12.99, the Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Fluid SPF50 Invisible is available here: Boots, Amazon, x Neil.

Purito Oat-In Intense Cream

Providing calming relief, the Purito Oat-In Intense Cream is also able to restore balance in the skin by helping to moisturise, improve skin texture, and support the microbiome. Containing four 71.95% oat-based ingredients which are Avena Sativa Seed Water (66.79%), Avena Sativa Kernel Oil (5%), Avena Sativa Kernel Flour (0.1%) and Avena Sativa Kernel Extract (0.06%), this deeply moisturising cream is ideal for sensitive and drier skin types. Clinical studies have proven that oatmeal can provide relief and improve overall skin health especially for those who have dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis whilst also being a solution for those who are wanting a skincare product to support their skin all year round by replenishing the oil and moisture balance.  

Full Ingredients Of The Purito Oat-In Intense Cream.

Avena Sativa (Oat) Seed Water (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Glycerin (Humectant), Caprylic/​Capric Triglyceride (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Butylene Glycol (Humectant), 1,2-Hexanediol (Solvent), Glyceryl Stearate (Surfactant), Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate (Surfactant), Water (Solvent), Stearyl Alcohol (Surfactant), Carbomer (Viscosity Increasing Agents), Arginine (Ph Adjuster), Ethylhexylglycerin (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract (Skin-Conditioning Agent)

Presented in a pump bottle, the intense cream is free from drying alcohols and is also free from essential oils and fragrances. It can be applied to the face and body, but i tend to use it on my face and neck as the 150ml bottle would soon be empty if used for body applications. The lightweight but intensively rich cream glides over the skin with ease, before absorbing quickly, to leave the skin feeling perfectly soothed and nurtured without feeling greasy or sticky. Supporting the skin under any sunscreen throughout the day, it is also a cream to reach for at night after applying your Vitamin A to support the barrier function and reduce any irritation from the soothing and calming properties it contains. 

Priced at £19.75 and available here: Purito Oat-In Intense Cream Don't forget to use my discount code: BLONDEMALE1 on all products x Neil.  

The CODE SSL Soft Smooth Lip Liner For Plumper Lips.

Bring definition and dimension to your lips with the highly popular lip product CODE SSL Soft Smooth Lip Liner. The innovative CODE Beautiful brand creates staple cosmetic products that not only deliver on perfect results with each application, they are also accredited as a cruelty-free and vegan-friendly company from PETA. Disclaimer: The link at the end of the blogpost offers a £5.00 discount on the affiliated link! 

Creating a 3-in-1 lip-liner, lipstick and lip plumper, the CODE Beautiful SSL Soft Smooth Lip Liner is your go-to lip product for instant defined lips. Presented in a perfect shade "Nude Blush" for all skin tones, the close and twist lid protects the tip for perfect application each time its applied. The blendable and creamy formulation is essential for when purchasing a lip liner product, you do not want to be dragging or pulling the lips when creating your own specific look, whilst the formulation also contains an active ingredient "Maxi-Lip" known as a lip plumper and hydrator that contains a peptide that stimulates collagen production and helps with the synthesis of hyaluronic acid.

Starting from the middle of your lips top and bottom, the lip liner applies perfectly using short strokes with little pressure needed for a natural colour pay-off. Proceeding to draw vertical lines on both the lips will help take advantage of that active ingredient, before rubbing the lips together for an all-over colour and perfect base for your current lipstick, gloss, or the other highly popular lip product from CODE Beautiful CODE LIP. Applying a lip liner is a well-known technique that will help prolong the application of your lip colour by preventing the colour from bleeding and feathering, whilst also applying as a base to the lips will also help adhere any product applied after to last longer. Enhance the natural look of your own lips, when easily applying the hydrating and long wearing lip product that is CODE SSL for plumper lips, Get £5.00 off your first order by clicking here: CODE Beautiful x Neil.