Saturday, 31 January 2015

The Month in Skincare - January

I can't believe January is at an end already! Those of you that aren't on Instagram will be unaware that I've been keeping a daily record of the products I'm using. Not so much for me, more to encourage you to mix it up a little (where you can afford to - obviously), there is never a need to only use one brand. (Although I wouldn't mix a load of retinol products. You stay classy San Diego.)

Myself, the Mr and Max are all a little under the weather so there won't be a video tomorrow - I'll aim for Monday/Tuesday - but I need to rest up.

Feel free to ask any questions about the products shown or any routines etc in the comments. Although with this cold, bear with. Yes/no will be easier than essays this weekend! :)

Also: I'm focusing more on budget skincare in February. I'd be interested to hear from you with some of your favourites. :)

Have a lovely weekend everyone!





































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94 comments:

  1. Chloe31 January 2015 at 17:57

    Hi Caroline! Love these daily Instagram updates. Is there a reason why you haven't often pictured/used oils throughout January? Hope you feel better soon!

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  2. Unknown31 January 2015 at 17:57

    The Organic Surge Cleanser. I saw it in my local Co-Op. Is it 'medicinal' smelling and is it any good?
    Thx Caroline. X

    ReplyDelete
  3. Catarina31 January 2015 at 18:13

    Hi Caroline

    30 year old, combination skin, some PMS breakouts after stopping pill

    What moisturizer would you recommend?
    Currently using Estee Lauder DayWear Advanced Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Lotion SPF15

    And eye cream for hydration and age preventing?
    Currently using SKII eye treatment film (AM) and Advanced night repair eye serum (PM)

    Thank you ;))

    ReplyDelete
  4. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 18:22

    Started roaccutane yesterday. Looking for advice and product recs :) thank you xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Katie1 February 2015 at 12:38

      Hey L, I was on Roaccutane a few years ago, one thing to massively look after is your lips - they tend to dry out then crack, and a lot of people bleed on each side so it looks like you have cold sores crossed with vampiric tendencies. One of the best lip balms in the world (and recommended by Caroline) is Nuxe 'Reve de Miel', it's £9.50. And you'll need a great moisturiser. Hope that helps and best of luck, Katie

      Delete
    2. Unknown1 February 2015 at 13:21

      I was on it a number of years ago and got loads of nose bleeds! Keep tissues nearby at all times!! I think it was because Roaccutane dries everything up! And make sure to use SPF everyday!

      Delete
    3. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 17:35

      Hi Katie, thanks :) yes have lots of lip balms at the ready and do already own the nuxe one. I'll wait till the dryness begins and buy a moisturiser. Any recs on a good one? Ohh wow Edel haha something to look forward to, but thanks for the advice :) I'm an spf everyday kinda girl anyways x

      Delete
    4. Anonymous3 February 2015 at 00:23

      For lips I used pure lanolin bp - tubs available in pharmacies (slathered on at night) it really helped! I found most lip 'balms' just sat on top and my lips would be sore again within minutes. Also the highest spf you can find, as your skin gets super sensitive
      I also used something similar to e45 as I found it very gentle on my skin! Good luck, the results are worth it :)

      Delete
  5. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 18:39

    One budget product that I like and use whenever I can is jojoba oil! I leave it on the skin for as long as possible and then cleanse - seems to really help my skin stop producing lots of oil!
    I wonder if you consider Effaclar to be budget skincare, but I used it a lot in the past.
    I also often check TK Maxx for skincare - they have at times a few gems, although I buy selectively!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 18:47

    Hi Caroline. I have oily skin. Merumaya skin essentials intro kit a yay or a nay? Thank you x

    ReplyDelete
  7. Unknown31 January 2015 at 19:01

    Hi :)
    First time I've had the courage to ask a question.
    I have a hormonal chin. It's often bright red, acneic cysts that leave hard lumps that are simply not going away and it's really bringing me down. Been over a year now. I've just turned 33.
    The rest of my face is basically perfect!!
    I've finally settled on using Dermalogica Ultra Calm (gel cleanser, toner, serum and barrier repair) and I think the consistency (and lack of exfoliating toner) has really helped calm me down.
    I use Clarins oil at night, if I've got spots (but my skin doesn't absorb it well....).
    I'm using my other gorgeous products on the rest of my face (Hirons routine).

    Is there anything more I can do for my chin?
    (before I try cutting out foods as I already am on a healthy, made from scratch diet).
    Water is consumed constantly all day. Alcohol is usually red wine and at a minimum.I am also now taking zinc, evening starflower, omega3, Vitamin D, and magabsorb (for skin and muscles and hormones and health, not in that order).

    Thank you so much x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 23:07

      Have you been to a doctor? I have PCOS and get acne on my chin (as many PCOS sufferers do). They can put you on medicine that will fix it if it is PCOS related.

      FWIW, mine would not clear up with any amount of good skincare/eating/etc. They also get worse around my TOM.

      Delete
    2. Unknown2 February 2015 at 14:28

      I really wonder if I am. Periods last 7 days (then I get a bit more a few days later just for fun!) although they are regular.I get every sympton under the sun, although only every other month (so I'm assuming one ovary is worse than the other?). I'll book a Dr appointment. Thanks for commenting *fist bump*

      Delete
  8. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 19:13

    Hi Caroline - not sure if it's strictly budget (£18???) but I've been using Odylique by Essential Care Silk Touch cleanser as a morning cleanse. Goes on as a gel with really good grip, so I give my face a good massage whilst waiting for shower to warm up. As it warms it turns to an oily. Then it turns to a milk as you rinse off. Face feels like a petal afterwards - I love it. Timeless Rose Moisturiser is light as a feather and beautiful too at £21. I've ot a few Odylique products to try - they offer trial sizes on all products too which has got to be a good thing. I'm getting more and more interested in the Body Shop, they seem to be doing some exciting stuff. Also regularly read rave reviews of Superdrug's Naturally Radiant Hot Cloth cleanser and am tempted to try (even though I happily pay more for my cleansers)

    While I'm posting, I read your review of OGX. I nearly bought this back in the summer as I too have gone silicone and SLS-free and my hair (after an initial month of nastiness and not feeling properly clean) now feels amazing and needs washing less often. It's given me a haircare obsession which NEARLY, but only nearly, rivals my skincare one and I have become a label-reading maniac. Anyway, I noticed that OGX conditioners all contain silicones. If I understand correctly, you can only remove silicones properly with an SLS shampoo. If you don't, it builds up on your hair. Any pearls of wisdom on this?

    Get well soon, Kate x

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  9. Unknown31 January 2015 at 19:18

    I was going to start to use aveda exfoliant on the top of my hands before moisturising at night to keep age spots away. Good idea or bad?

    ReplyDelete
  10. Clever Girl Reviews31 January 2015 at 19:36

    I love seeing all that stuff. Did you do a full review of Artemis yet?

    ReplyDelete
  11. Clever Girl Reviews31 January 2015 at 19:36

    I meant Luna, sorry!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Unknown31 January 2015 at 19:42

    Get well soon. Thank you as always for being generous with your time and knowledge.x

    ReplyDelete
  13. Federica31 January 2015 at 20:06

    My budget recommendations are the Balance Me cleanser balm and the stellar balm -which makes for a great moisturising mask. They are aimed at dry/sensitive skins but my combination, occasionally acneic (or is it acnaic?) skin is fine with them.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Unknown31 January 2015 at 20:07

    Hi Caroline,

    Would you highly recommend the Kerstin Florian Rose Water? Wanted to purchase a rose water to follow up after using P50 and wanted to see your thoughts or what you would suggest. Thanks!

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  15. Unknown31 January 2015 at 20:09

    Hi Caroline,

    Would you highly recommend the Kerstin Florian rose water?

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 20:09

    HI Caroline,
    I love your blog! 21 yr old stressed college student with sensitive skin and hormonal breakout looking for a good way to get rid of hyperpigmentation. Retinol breaks me out. Estee lauder enlighten? IS Clinical Active serum? Skinceuticals ce ferulic? Thoughts? Please help!! Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Georgia31 January 2015 at 20:12

    Love your blog and how educational it always is! :)

    can you use the pixi glow tonic with kate somerville nourish moisturise? i only ask as i think the kate talks about having vitamin a in it. also is it a good moisturiser to use if you are in your 20s? (only because you said vitamin A not needed till 30s) if not, can you recommend any moisturisers for 20 year olds.

    get well soon :)

    ReplyDelete
  18. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 20:13

    This is great thank you! I always used to use just one brand until I started reading your blog. I love mixing up brands & have loads of skincare but I do use it all. I worry that I might be using skincare products with ingredients that clash. For example at night the su-man velvet brightening serum, dr perricone cold plasma, this works no wrinkles midnight moisture then a couple of hours later just before bed an oil? Too much? Any clashing ingredients? Hope your all better soon. x

    ReplyDelete
  19. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 20:24

    Not on Instagram so thank you for this. My favourite budget skin cleanser is Ren cleansing milk, lovely. I use it in the morning. It reminds me of the omorovicza cleansing milk. Another lovely budget skin cleanser the trilogy cleansing cream. I have a question about oil in my routine. After a lot of research I have started using oil after my moisturiser but once I finished my sd senergy oil I had a decleor one in my stash so thought I better use it up ( neroli) I e-mailed the customer service to see if it would be ok to use after moisturiser but they said they had never heard of using an oil after moisturiser & the moisturiser would block the oil going into skinSoooo confused. Can you help?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous2 February 2015 at 03:03

      Ren is not budget..nor is Trilogy

      Delete
  20. Carrie31 January 2015 at 20:25

    Fave budget skincare product- St. Ives exfoliating pads! $5.29 for 60 pads soaked in lactic acid goodness.

    ReplyDelete
  21. agirlandherdog31 January 2015 at 20:33

    Hi Caroline, I'm 27 and I have always struggled with acne and sensitive skin. I've been following your routines for a while now. I have recently had some serious breakouts, especially on my chin and nose area, of painful cystic spots. I went through your cheat sheets and you suggested using Aesop Control gel for sudden break outs. I live in the states and it's not available here, would you recommend any alternatives?

    ReplyDelete
  22. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 20:48

    Are all your products pictured in the order that you use? Hope you get rid of cold soon :)

    ReplyDelete
  23. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 20:53

    Thanks for pics. What is in the wee brown bottle in pics 10 & 11? Any products pictured that you disliked? & lastly is the new Sunday Riley oil suitable for dry/sensitive-ish skin, early 40's. Thanks again :)

    ReplyDelete
  24. Dina31 January 2015 at 21:11

    Have you stopped using Liquid Gold? Sorry just curious :)

    ReplyDelete
  25. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 21:20

    I love merumaya cleansing balm. Is the toner also nice? And did you try the facial wash? Thank you! Hope you and your family will feel better!

    ReplyDelete
  26. Katie31 January 2015 at 21:30

    Hope you're feeling better soon Caroline and thanks for the Instagram product shots :)

    I'm a fairly new convert to the Hirons routine *waves* and this blog. All the changes I've made so far have really started to improve my skin - thanking you! However, I've got combination skin that is pretty dehydrated in winter and I just cannot get rid of my dry, scaly cheeks! They are noticeably flaky and dry when I try makeup and this extends to under my eyes.

    My routine is:

    Origins Clean Energy Cleansing Oil
    Clarins Gentle Exfoliatir / Lancôme Tonique Douceur (alternate)
    Melvita Eau Florale de Rose
    Hydraluron
    Clarins Hydraquench Lotion Normal to Combination (day) / Clarins Multi Active Night (night)

    Should I change anything or just be patient with that the weather and central heating are doing to my skin?

    Thankyou 😀 xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous3 February 2015 at 11:58

      Hi Katie

      Sorry to butt in here but for what it's worth the only thing I have found to help with my dry and dehydrated skin is the Medik8 Ultimate recovery cream. It's not budget and I cannot comment on whether or not the ingredients might break people out/ cause allergic reactions but it has worked amazingly for me. My dehydration lines have disappeared and my skin now looks plump and not grey and sunken.I hope this helps - good luck :-)

      Elaine

      Delete
    2. Katie3 February 2015 at 13:34

      Thanks Elaine much appreciated! x

      Delete
    3. Anonymous3 February 2015 at 15:49

      No problem Katie. I hope it helps. I forgot to mention that I used to use the Clarins exfoliating and brightening toner (not sure if it's the same one that you use) but although it was lovely it was also too drying especially when used every day. I have switched to the Pixi toner and will keep the Clarins one for occasional use.

      Delete
  27. Big Girl, Skinny World31 January 2015 at 21:37

    Hail Queen Caroline.... one very humble and thankful reader here!! Thank you for your amazing blog :) With regards to the budget skincare in February, could you / would you be able to check out and/or review Superdrug own brands or Boots own brands ??? I like superdrug because they are usually cruelty-free but I'm confused by the ingrediants lists.... why cant companies just use simple names ?? Many Thanks, your humble reader, Big Girl

    ReplyDelete
  28. Katie31 January 2015 at 21:41

    Ps. I'm 30 :)

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  29. Allie31 January 2015 at 21:51

    kiehls midnight recovery concentrate, la roche-posay toleraine and rosaliac AR intense for dry skin..yay or nay? thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  30. Unknown31 January 2015 at 22:19

    Hope u feel better soon caroline. We've all been ill with the cold this week up here in the north of Scotland. It seem to be a bad strain this time round xx

    ReplyDelete
  31. karima31 January 2015 at 22:42

    I've enjoyed following your skincare routine on instagram! - looking forward to some budget recommendations :) Question: I'm looking into oils - have tried the kiehls midnight.., fushi rose hip.. basically my skin is normal/dry (not particularly flaky, except for the nose area) and dehydrated. I'm 23 and can see lines on my forehead and around the mouth which just will NOT go away no matter how many times I use a hydrating mask + I exfoliate with pixi glow tonic/clarin's gentle exfoliater. I'm also prone to acne spots/cysts. Uh. Any tips? I just placed an order on the la roche posay toleriane riche because my current moisturiser is too light (I know it contains shea butter but it doesn't SEEM to irritate my skin) Currently I'm also using hydraluron/ole henriksen truth serum at the serum stage or clarins' blue orchid face oil which I got as a sample - I'm not quite sure about it though. Would you recommend the clarins santal face oil for dry skin or the blue orchid for dehydrated? My skin is seriously craving some hydration without clogging my pores. Or would you recommend something else entirely? I'm open to suggestions ! thanks! xx

    ReplyDelete
  32. Dreamy31 January 2015 at 22:47

    Budget skincare - boots organics range. They have a lovely balm cleanser which is often sold out & a softening cream cleanser, with the three for twos offers products average £5!!

    ReplyDelete
  33. Michelle31 January 2015 at 22:47

    I think it was day 3 when I realised what you were doing = me freaking out!!


    La Roche posay anthelious extreme fluid has ethanol as an ingredient - is that bad?

    Hope everyone is feeling better x

    ReplyDelete
  34. Helen31 January 2015 at 22:59

    Trying to get rid of acne 'scars': peptabright, balance me radiance face oil or something else (not too pricey) ?x

    ReplyDelete
  35. Divya Thompson31 January 2015 at 23:06

    Very surprised/confused to see Perricone FFM in the mix, it contains mineral oil! (C13-14 Isoparaffin) (11th ingredient on the list)

    www.peonyandpeach.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  36. Helen31 January 2015 at 23:07

    Trying to get rid of acne 'scars': peptabright, balance me radiance face oil or something else (not too pricey)?x

    ReplyDelete
  37. Jessa31 January 2015 at 23:20

    Hi Caroline,

    On your recommendation, I have purchased and fallen in love with the Clinique TTDO Balm and would love to know if the Milk version would be suitable as second cleanse in the evening and morning cleanse?

    Thanks x

    ReplyDelete
  38. Anonymous31 January 2015 at 23:24

    Hey,

    I watched your budget video a few months ago and decided to purchase the Clearasil ex-foliating pads... which I used each night for about 1.5wks and the area under right eye became red/flaky/dry, which I had to sort out using vitamin e oil from Body Shop.
    I'm just wondering would Pixie Glow Tonic or even P50 be to harsh on my skin? I notice you use it (mostly) daily in your instagram pics.


    Also they have launched a Roche Posay Serozinc in the UK - waiting for it to come to Boots before I buy it using my points (I have £11). Have you tried the EFFACLAR DUO[+]? Its a blogger favourite.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 00:28

    Using a mild toner (such a REN, First Aid Beauty) in PM routine and not using SPF or make up the morning after?

    ReplyDelete
  40. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 00:42

    Would you buy Tracie Martyn face and body sculpt if you were 47 with sensitive temperamental skin? I love the alma cleanser in the am.

    ReplyDelete
  41. gemma1 February 2015 at 01:58

    Hope you all feel better! I have a question about the Tata Harper regenerating cleanser - i have just found out i'm pregnant & normally have pretty sensitive skin with hormonal spots on chin & jawline, which i'm hoping won't get too much worse (?!). Anyway, I am thinking of buying the Regenerating Cleanser but would this be good & safe (i see it has willow bark)? Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  42. Unknown1 February 2015 at 02:37

    EL Essence. What is it and how does it fit into a skincare routine? Is it like a toner?

    ReplyDelete
  43. Ray1 February 2015 at 04:59

    see you used the paula's choice resist a couple times this month I've heard good things but i like to know from the expert (that being you) what are your thoughts?

    ReplyDelete
  44. JoolsVoiceOver1 February 2015 at 05:40

    I use the Judith Williams range. She has a few different sets and I mixx and match them all. I usually get a QVC TSV on auto delivery so the price is pennies especially when you look at the sizes. I used to use Liz Earles cleanse and polish as a cleanser but swapped the the superdrug dupe recently as I heard the ingriedients in the C&P changed and the price is climbing steadily up. Here is a link to some of JW range http://www.qvcuk.com/CatalogSearch?langId=-2&storeId=10252&catalogId=10152&sc=SRCH&keyword=judith+williams&x=0&y=0

    ReplyDelete
  45. Melody and Vincent1 February 2015 at 05:41

    Feel better soon Hirons household. We aren't feelin' so hot either. Rest up! ~ Melody

    ReplyDelete
  46. Sandra Sallin1 February 2015 at 06:49

    Am I the only one who can not figure out the names of these products. Is it the fact that I'm a woman of a "way certain age" and my eyes are failing me? Hope there's a list somewhere. Love all you do.

    ReplyDelete
  47. Lipstick Sunshine1 February 2015 at 09:43

    For budget, I adore Oilatum Natural Repair Face Cream. It's got nice ingredients considering it is £8! I also am a fan of manuka honey and cinnamon for a natural spot-fighting face mask. Burt's Bees Orange Essence cleanser is gorgeous. Oh, and the a'kin Orange Blossom & Chamomile toner - gorge!

    ReplyDelete
  48. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 10:10

    I'm glad to see Merumaya in your skincare collection, their cleansing serum is a must-have!

    Alaina | Urban-Glam Fashion Blog

    ReplyDelete
  49. Nessa1 February 2015 at 10:37

    Try the Andalou range. I love it. They're found at my health food store. Not sure you can get it in the UK, but I love everything I've tried and their products seem to follow your advice. They have a great acid toner with willow bark as the source for salicylic acid, a lovely milk cleanser and I'm obsessed with their sensutive night cream. It's call 1000 roses or something like that. The first time I put it on was like putting on liquid silk for my super sensitive skin. Can't wait to see what you do use! Thanks for all the great advice and daily lift I get from watching your videos and reading your posts!

    P.S. I know I've asked before but please please do a mask cheat sheet. I'm a total novice when it comes to masks and would love to know how often you should use a clay mask, what other kinds you recommend for various skin conditions, particularly hormonal cysts? When using a clay mask how long should you leave it on? I've heard you shouldn't leave a clay mask on too long as it will start to draw the moisture out of your skin. If you start with a powder clay mask what should the consistency be? Can you over use hydrating masks or could you use it daily for dehydrated skin? Also a cheat sheet for sensitive skin would be awesome! I know you're super busy I'm just hoping here :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Unknown6 February 2015 at 02:29

      Nessa, thanks for the info on Andalou -- I'm going to try the toner and night cream when my current ones run out :) And I completely agree that a mask cheat sheet would be AWWW-SOME.

      TL;DR Use a clay when you want to "tighten" (aka dehydrate and give the appearance of smaller pores), not for the treatment of acne. Glycolic acids (i.e. Alpha-H Liquid Gold) are a better option for treating pimples, including hormonal flares.

      Clay masks, in my humble experience (very oily skin, blackheads in T-zone, and cystic acne on the jaw line, and redness / sensitive in the 'danger triangle') are a double edge sword. On one hand they draw stuff out, on the other hand they draw stuff out...

      I've used clay masks anywhere from once a week to everyday (yes, everyday based on a stupid Amazon review for a very popular powder clay mask). Once a week was perfect for my skin, and everyday we just stupid -- I broke out more and my skin was angry. Of course I thought it was just an "induction phase," so I kept up this routine for about 3 weeks o0. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Please don't try that. Anyhoos ... all of that to say ...

      It seems like nothing really works on those hormonal monsters other than hormone treatment (I'm not condoning, just an observation). Some glycolic masks are nice as a treatment for cysts, but nothing really prevents to my knowledge. Once you have the beast on your face, Caroline mentions it's best to help your skin, not fight it. A clay mask will not draw out the pimple, it will just dry out your skin around it and make it harder to heal. I know it seems counter intuitive given that we have always been told we need to 'clean out' our pores to be acne free. But acne, especially hormonal, is not a cleaning problem.

      A better solution I have found for pimples in general (including cystic) is Alpha-H's Liquid Gold (thanks CH!!). It's not a miracle cure, but it's a lot better than any mask I have tried. Some online retailers in the UK have free international shipping and stock sample packages of Alpha-H products -- I highly recommend :)

      Lastly, for the texture -- it seems to be a personal preference. Some people like a really thin layer and others (like myself) like to have something a little thicker on. Of course, the thicker it is the more it will dry you out (and it's AWFUL to take off if you put it on too thick). Once you get your hands on some powder clay you'll quickly figure out what your preference is :)

      I hope some of that was helpful for the time being :)

      Delete
  50. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 10:56

    Is Clinique mild toner a yay or a nay many thanks and hope u feel better soon xxx

    ReplyDelete
  51. Alison1 February 2015 at 11:34

    A huge thank you for recommending Clarins Skin Beauty Repair Concentrate, I am 65 and have been having awful problems with eczema/dermatitis/PD? outbreaks on my face, there have been just a very few products that have not stung/irritated it badly, but nothing has really improved things until I got a very generous sample of the Clarins and also concocted a mask from manuka honey, live yogurt and ACV. I have spent so much money on trying to find products that I could use and haven't dared use acid toners for a while, hopefully it is on the retreat and in time I may be able to return to some of the lovely (and expensive) products in my bathroom. I will be purchasing the Clarins concentrate very soon. Again thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 11:40

    That's some amount of product! I wasn't to buy the Luna when it comes on sale in uk. Can I use it with omorovicza gold night drops & which goes first? Budget skin care -ren, I love some products from the sensitive range & my dry skin likes emollient rescue cream when it's need of something extra. Hope your all better. thanks

    ReplyDelete
  53. MXK9091 February 2015 at 11:52

    Great post, so much different products!

    FloralBeautii.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  54. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 12:59

    Hi. I really enjoy your blogs and have picked up some great tips.
    A friend said you are paid by Sunday Riley and I'd really like some clarification on that and if you could mention where posts are sponsored. Thanks you very much. Jp.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Unknown1 February 2015 at 13:19

      No problem. I actually don't work with Sunday Riley anymore, I did for the last two years. None of the SR posts on the blog are/were sponsored or I would have said so. I keep the blog and my consulting work separate - and you can always check in with my 'about me' page. That has my up to day clients and how I work etc. Feel free to always ask though. :)

      Delete
    2. Unknown1 February 2015 at 15:56

      Good question, and good to know. I'm sure though, even if Caroline was sponsored, she would only speak of products she loves/believes in and give the honest truth (as she does already). She seems like that kind of person. I mean if I created a product but it turned out to be shit, I'd rather know so that I may improve/fix it.

      Delete
  55. Davina1 February 2015 at 13:01

    "Budget skincare..This works,La Roche Posey,Vichy and Ren brands..I would like to see your reccomandation of these brands when the month of cash disposable is not there I can place it with the above brands😃

    ReplyDelete
  56. Unknown1 February 2015 at 14:08

    I hope you, the hubby and Max are feeling better!! Colds are never fun and definitely not when just off a migraine bender.
    I was re-reading your FAQ about exfoliation and was looking for alittle specific product clarification if I can borrow your expertise :). When using the AHA concentrate from REN, would I use it at the toner stage or could I treat it more like a serum and use a lighter toner such as Pixi or FAB pads. The same with Ole's invigorating night treatment, do I use it as a serum or is my acid toner? Thank you for your help ! Your candid approach is soooo refreshing and honest. It has been a face saver :).

    ReplyDelete
  57. donna1 February 2015 at 14:49

    Should Luna be used every night? I wait 20 minutes after moisturizer to use Skinceuticals 1.0 Retinol. Should I follow the same for Luna? And if not should it be over or under moisturizer?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Unknown1 February 2015 at 16:20

      I use the skinceuticals under my moisturizer. It does say it's a night cream but I usually don't use that soley as my night cream.

      Delete
    2. donna1 February 2015 at 21:50

      I have had multiple derms tell me to wait 20 minutes after moisturizer to apply retinol (at least the Rx grade kind) to reduce irritation.

      Delete
  58. Katerina1 February 2015 at 14:58

    Thank you for sharing all this valuable knowledge and experience with us. I would love budget recommendations since the 15 or 30ml finish rather quickly. Ok with Sunday Riley or Tata etc. I bought them once I loved them all and hated them since I had to repurchase, a bit high maintenance....Once in a while I could give some luxury to myself but unfortunately not all the time.

    ReplyDelete
  59. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 15:26

    Hi Caroline. Detail on the Nude skincare please. I have been using their night cream and the omega oil and serum and love it. Now, to use the serum on top of oil and them the cream on top of both is overkill? I have very dehydrated , dry skin. Saw few Nude skin items in your routine. More on that please please.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Gilly1 February 2015 at 15:32

    Hi Caroline, some of my favourite budget products are Super Faciallist Vitamin C+ cleansing oil, smells divine, I also like Superdrugs Vit E hot cloth polish as a creamy cleanser. I'm about to start using Loreal's laser renew range of skincare, all mineral oil free, so I thought I'd give that a go and see how I get on. I really am on the drugstore end of the budget as I'm no longer able to work but all of my own money goes on my skincare. I really love your blog & have learned so much from you about skin and with my skin being 46 it needs all the love and care it can get! Oh the Clearasil refreshing fruit toner pads I've been using since your last budget video went up, love those and they're great for clearing up those evil huge hormonal spots. I'm also a huge fan of facial oils since finding your blog, who knew what an amazing little gem those are, especially for those damn spots?!! I hope you and yours are soon over the germs, we've just gotten over it here, so take good care of yourselves.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gilly3 February 2015 at 13:40

      Scrap the Loreal, I've just re-checked and 2 of the products I was looking at do contain mineral oil. My favourite day cream is Sanctuary Spa Stop the Clock, though sadly their night creams do contain m/oil.

      Delete
  61. emmy03231 February 2015 at 16:01

    Loved this month, thanks! And get well soon, all three of you.

    Really quickly: 30 years old, combination skin that's looking really good these days (thanks to your blog), no wrinkles yet, very few fine lines, barely visible yet. Love Ceramic Slip, want to purchase either Good Genes or Luna (have never used retinols). Which would you recommend?

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  62. Unknown1 February 2015 at 16:03

    Hope you and your family get well soon. Caroline, if you ever need an idea for content... I'm really curious as to what your morning routines consist of. I feel with the information you've given us, my night time is getting there, but my morning is way off (using too much or too little product and wrong products for day time). Also, just wanted to say, I found a video you made for another youtube channel of how you go about a facial massage. It was pretty helpful!

    ReplyDelete
  63. Flutra1 February 2015 at 16:04

    Thanks for all your great tips Caroline! I wish you lived in the states! I had a question about using acids.. I use "Good Genes" but before that I use FAB Radiance Pads. Is that too much "acid" on my skin? I also use a moisturizing toner with hyaluronic acid. I am over doing it? I did break out a bit recently after doing this. Could that be the reason? Am I acid "over killing"?

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  64. cooke434BlogLife1 February 2015 at 17:33

    Hi Caroline I love watching your YouTube videos and reading your blog I was hoping if you could tell me if there is any fragrance in the Tom Ford Intenseive Eye Treatment. I can't find ingredients listed anywhere online, if you can help that would be brilliant. Thankyou

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  65. Unknown1 February 2015 at 17:41

    You have an amazing range of skincare products, jealous!
    Daxidream x

    ReplyDelete
  66. Lindsey1 February 2015 at 18:16

    Hi.

    Do you think that the Oskia super 16 serum good enough to hydrate a combi/dehydrated skin in the night time routine under the MV rose booster? I think I need to move away from ANR due to bumps forming under the skin surface.

    Also, would it be possible to get a kind of 'smackdown/desert island' series for different skin types? Ie if you had combination skin and could only choose one serum/moisturiser/cleanser etc, what would it be at that moment in time? Or would it not be worth it considering how often new things come out? I find I end up getting so many bits before I've actually finished something else so I currently have multiple options for most steps! I think I might have to start choosing my favourite!

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
  67. Unknown1 February 2015 at 21:15

    Hi Caroline, I was prescribed daktacort cream for patches of (what I think is) sebhorric dermatitis on my face (chin, right side of my mouth and quite badly directly under my right eye 😞) a week ago tomorrow and I was wondering if I should just use my normal skincare products after I've finished using the cream?

    Currently using;
    Botanics hot cloth cleanser
    Body shop aloe Vera cream cleanser
    Botanics 100% organic facial oil
    Neals yard almond moisturiser (New as I wanted something more moisturing, I was using S&G for daily youth)
    (I'm also going to order Ren omega 3 serum and clinique redness solutions soothing cleanser)

    Is there anything I should add or change?(on the more budget side if possible as money is quite tight!) I would really appreciate your advice 😊

    P.s I would love to hear your thoughts on the Botanics facial oil for the budget skincare products in Feb! 😁

    P.P.s I wrote this all out and it seems to have deleted itself before I pressed publish so if the first comment went through I'm sorry for reposting! x

    ReplyDelete
  68. sassi1 February 2015 at 22:12

    Hi Caroline. I love to read your interesting posts and sheets. I'm interested about your opinion of Caudalie products. A do or a dont? Would be great to knoe what you think. Thank you, Saskia

    ReplyDelete
  69. Anonymous1 February 2015 at 22:26

    Wow, looks like I lost my comment ... so sorry if this shows up twice !!!

    Hey Caroline,
    I'd really appreciate your opinion and advice on my current routine - is there anything you'd add or replace ?

    20, combination sensitive (quite the oily t-zone), no spots/acne etc.

    Daytime :
    --> La Roche-Posay Toleriane Fluide (when staying at home)
    --> La Roche-Posay Anthelios dry-touch gel cream SPF 30 (when leaving home)

    Nighttime :
    --> Alpha-H balancing aloe vera cleanser / Body Shop Vitamin E cleanser (2-3 times a week together with the Clarisonic thing)
    --> FAB radiance pads (about 2 times a week)
    --> Kiehl's midnight recovery serum (about 4-5 times a week)
    --> Kiehl's Ultra Facial moisturizer
    --> Kiehl's midnight recovery eyecream
    --> on random spots Effaclar Duo+
    --> once a week Kiehl's Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion

    Would you consider trying the Clinique Moisture Surge cream as a replacement for my current Kiehl's one ? (Sometimes I feel like I need a bit more)
    Could you recommend a serum that's not as heavy as my current one & sinks in nicely ?

    THANK YOU (literally for your existence !)

    P.

    ReplyDelete
  70. Anonymous2 February 2015 at 00:46

    Caroline,

    Firstly I hope you and your family get to feeling better soon. We just went through the same at my house. I need your help in a good serum and moisturizer and/or night cream for me. I have very temperamental skin. It's very clog prone and I suffer from spots. It also oily on the t zone and normal on the cheeks. Large pores/blackheads in the nose/forehead cheek area despite using p50. Cheeks and under eyes can get clog bumps if I use the wrong products. Fun right. I try to stay away from all silicones, cetyl and cetearyl alcohol and the like and algae. I know my skin needs moisture and I bet that is why it gets oily but I just can't seem to find products that work for me. My skin didn't like lotus oil I think maybe essential oils? HELP!!! I know if anyone can advise it would be you

    ReplyDelete
  71. Anonymous2 February 2015 at 01:03

    I keep losing my comment so I'm sorry if it appears twice. I need help finding a serum and moisturizer and/or night cream. Very temperamental skin. Clogs very very easily. Oily t zone especially chin and forehead normal cheeks. Clog bumps can happen on cheeks near nose and under eye area if I use the wrong products. Large pores on forehead and nose and cheeks despite using p50. I stay away from silicones, cetearyl alcohol and the like and algae. I know I need moisture but I can't find something to not make my skin freak out. I've tried clarins lotus and skin didn't like it. I think it was the essential oils. HELP!!

    ReplyDelete
  72. Anonymous2 February 2015 at 07:54

    I really love the superdrug naturals hot cloth cleanser and also their moisturiser and serum
    I'm ashamed to say I'm in late 20s and have only just started a skincare routine - which used to consist of just a wipe!

    I liked your cheat sheet re what should be your most expensive item but would like

    ReplyDelete
  73. Anonymous2 February 2015 at 07:55

    To see more budget products as I'm not able to splash out too much on products.

    I also like clearasil pads- finally got rid of blackheads and flaky bits of skin!

    ReplyDelete
  74. Unknown2 February 2015 at 11:38

    I see you have been using the new Estee Lauder Serum quite a bit. Please, will you do a full review on it soon? I am looking to purchase a high tech serum and think this might be it. However, it is going to cost a bomb when they release it here in UK and your thoughts will be very much appreciated by me and others, I am sure. Love the blog.

    ReplyDelete
  75. Anonymous3 February 2015 at 12:48

    Hi Caroline - another suggestion for budget skincare - have you used anything by Balm Balm? Just been looking at their Super Light Coconut Cleanser - £13.25 and it sounds gorgeous, as do all their products. All mineral oil free and mostly under a tenner

    Kate x

    ReplyDelete
  76. dustinator's nation3 February 2015 at 13:14

    Hey Caroline, can we talk about Revitalizing Supreme by Estee Lauder? I see you used it a few time, I'd love to know your thoughts on it. I'm in my mid-twenties and I've been thinking about getting it.

    ReplyDelete
  77. Unknown6 February 2015 at 01:45

    As a medical student, mom, wife, and daughter (yes, my mom lives with us .... yay?!) I [think] I know a thing or two about cheap, ahem, affordable beauty products. I hope you like these, 'cause if you don't I'll have to buy expensive stuff :((((

    1. SKINFOOD Pineapple Morning Peeling Gel (or Missha Super Aqua Detoxifying Peeling Gel) -- great exfoliants for the entire body, not just the face. There is another Japanese product called Cure that is supposed to be better, but it's out of my price range :\

    2. SKIN79 Super+ BB Triple Function Hot Pink and Bronze -- Oily skin + living in the tropics = no foundation / powder. Plus, I despise foundation (I don't think I've found a good one yet). But these BBs let me sweat without streaking down my face, and I sweat a LOT. Plus it's got an SPF of 25, whitening power, and even out my skin tone just enough without looking unatural. I know you don't like the idea of BBs, but from the other side of the fence this is a nice alternative to "real makeup."

    3. Dermacosmetec Acne Toner -- no alcohol and 10% AHAs

    4. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Cream Cleanser -- unlike it's foaming cousin, this is a pretty decent cheap acne cream wash. Olay Total Effects 7 in One Blemish Control was my favorite, but it's hard to find these days.

    Is it weird that I'm excited to see if you try these?! Please try them!! {fingers crossed} Cheers and thanks for all the new posts, they've been good reads :)

    ReplyDelete
  78. Zayne Kadry9 February 2015 at 12:56

    Hi,
    I'm a Uni student, just turned 20, and have recently been really into the idea of taking care of my skin but have no idea where to start. I've had a look at your 'Cheat Sheet - Routines', which was amazing help, but I'm still overwhelmed by what to buy.

    I saw that you are looking to do more on budget skin care this month and thought that if you had time it may be nice to have a blog post on budget suggestions for a daily/weekly routine!

    Thank you for your time :)

    ReplyDelete

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