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Beauty - good skin, confidence and kindness
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items I've been trialing different beauty products for decades now and have covered a good proportion of the lower end products and even some of the higher end products found on the UK high street and on line. In my teens and twenties, with mild acne I tri...
This list may take a while to get to recommending things for confidence….and they're unlikely to be purchaseable but it will probably get there in the end (wip).
This list may take a while to get to recommending things for confidence….and they're unlikely to be purchaseable but it will probably get there in the end (wip).
Sections
11
Cleansers
Makeup removers
Toners
Moisturizers
Retinols and Retinals
FACE SPFs
Cleansers
The OG hot cloth cleanser in the UK. Rub it into dry skin, wet the muslin washcloth and massage then rinse off. Doesnt leave the skin dry. Works fantastically on those early teenage breakouts and still works brilliantly on my maturing skin. The light...
luckily its available on amazon. you can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az0kMzyIoJGzy
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
luckily its available on amazon. you can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az0kMzyIoJGzy
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Cleanse & Polish™ Cleansers | Liz Earle Beauty Co.
If your budget doesnt stretch to the high end brand names (and mine doesnt always) then Beautypie has premium products at a more affordable price point. The Japanfusion cleanser I use like a hot cloth cleanser. I massage it in to dry skin, work it th...
Japanfusion Pure Transforming Cleanser
Another wonderful cleanser from Beautypie that is a repeat purchase for me. I only tried it because I got a free sample, but again its a brilliant cleanser which is non-stripping. The large pump bottle also makes it perfect for daily use in the showe...
Happy Face No-stress Jelly Cleanser | Beauty Pie US
When you need a double cleanse in a nurturing way this is just wonderful. It takes a few seconds to warm up on your fingers to allow you to massage it into your face. Once thoroughly massaged wet your hands and go over your face a second time to emul...
Super Healthy Skin Hot Oil Double Cleansing Balm
Makeup removers
This Garnier Micellar water is hands down the best makeup remover ever. I never have the patience to use a face wash cleanser to remove mascara because I cannot deal with the water running up my sleeves at the wash basin or the panda eyes that requir...
The Micellar water removes both of those irritants getting through all but the most stubborn water proof mascara in a few seconds. It doesnt leave you with panda eyes, it doesnt sting if it gets into your eyes. It isnt oily so doesnt cause breakouts.
It DOES leave your skin feeling and looking clean but not stripped. AND I bottle goes a VERY long way. I reckon I only need 1.5 bottles across a whole year making it very cost effective.
My teenage daughter loves it too. And it is the ONLY one I ever buy. I use the one in the first image with the pink lid.
You can get it here: amzlink.to/az0tkRZqp90EJ
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
The Micellar water removes both of those irritants getting through all but the most stubborn water proof mascara in a few seconds. It doesnt leave you with panda eyes, it doesnt sting if it gets into your eyes. It isnt oily so doesnt cause breakouts.
It DOES leave your skin feeling and looking clean but not stripped. AND I bottle goes a VERY long way. I reckon I only need 1.5 bottles across a whole year making it very cost effective.
My teenage daughter loves it too. And it is the ONLY one I ever buy. I use the one in the first image with the pink lid.
You can get it here: amzlink.to/az0tkRZqp90EJ
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Micellar Water: Gentle Cleansing Skin Care Products
Im just talking about the waterproof mascara remover here - I'll do a separate list on mascaras. This biphasic makeup remover need a good old shake just before you dispense a little on to a cotton pad. Hold it against your closed eye for a few second...
The Perfect Waterproof Mascara In Superglossy Brown & Remover Duo
Toners
Beautiful non stripping toner. A delicate slightly herbal scent. Excellent if you've needed to use an oily make up remover for waterproof mascara as it takes off the last of the residue and oily feel super gently. This was a constant on my dressing table for decades until it was swiped by my teenage daughter and I...
you can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az0vDuyQT8LVJ
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
you can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az0vDuyQT8LVJ
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic 200ml
I only needed this miracle product for a few months. Less than a bottle was used. In my 30s I went through a year or 2 with far more spots than I was prepared to live with. And I spent alot of time trying different products to help me resolve the iss...
You can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az02RA5YiffVR
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
You can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az02RA5YiffVR
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Facial Toners | Exfoliators for Sensitive Skin | Medik8 US
Moisturizers
Moisturizers I have loved over the years and the ones Im using now.
My current summer moisturizer. Sinks into my skin beautifully leaving me feeling hydrated but not oily or greasy in the slightest. I love this product so much. It seems to deal particularly well with the need to overlay some kind of spf product on su...
Triple Hyaluronic Acid Moisturiser
Retinols and Retinals
Retinols and retinals need to be chosen with care. When they work they REALLY work. And you dont want a product that is too strong for your skin. These resurface the very top layer of skin. ALWAYS use at night. ALWAYS use SPFs if you're using them.
I started my retinol journey with an item that wont be going on this list. And Im not going to name - because I dont remember the brand. But it was a Retinol NOT a Retinal. And my skin turned red, patchy and flakey and all in all it was horrible. Aft...
I started with the low concentration Medik8 Retinal. Followed the instructions about building up usage over time. Until I was able to use it nightly.
It really works. It reduces fine lines. It reduces those first hints of an age spot. And even better it helps old zit scars return to your normal skin colour more quickly.
I quickly moved up in concentration once I realised my skin tolerated it well and thats when I started to see reductions in those pesky period breakouts.
This is not the cheapest product particularly at higher concentrations but it is fantastic.
Highly recommended. I used it for years until I found an ‘rough’ equivalent at a more appropriate price point for me.
nowadays you can get it on amazon here: https://amzlink.to/az0IQSKk2bQW5
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
I started with the low concentration Medik8 Retinal. Followed the instructions about building up usage over time. Until I was able to use it nightly.
It really works. It reduces fine lines. It reduces those first hints of an age spot. And even better it helps old zit scars return to your normal skin colour more quickly.
I quickly moved up in concentration once I realised my skin tolerated it well and thats when I started to see reductions in those pesky period breakouts.
This is not the cheapest product particularly at higher concentrations but it is fantastic.
Highly recommended. I used it for years until I found an ‘rough’ equivalent at a more appropriate price point for me.
nowadays you can get it on amazon here: https://amzlink.to/az0IQSKk2bQW5
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Crystal Retinal
I loved nearly everything about this product. Boy does it work well. What I didnt love was the packaging. Although the pump action bottles are designed to be refillable, I found the dispensing pump part a bit flaky and fiddly. The price point is hone...
Overnight Sensation | Retinal+Serum
I knew I liked Retinal - so when I joined beauty pie I started my retinal journey with this serum. It works beautifully although at my age I wanted something a little stronger. My teenage daughter uses this when her skin gets clogged up to help her o...
You can see I included the product image that shows the full range of products available at beauty pie under the retinol heading. I'm currently using the strongest one. which is in the copper coloured tube.
All price points are extremely reasonable.
Highly recommended.
You can see I included the product image that shows the full range of products available at beauty pie under the retinol heading. I'm currently using the strongest one. which is in the copper coloured tube.
All price points are extremely reasonable.
Highly recommended.
Super Retinal Rejuvenating Serum
I love this stuff. I use it every night outside of the main summer season. I dont need anyother product on my face overnight - it has enough hydration in there for my skin to not feel tight. I use one pump and it just sinks in beautifully. It helps e...
Youthbomb Double-Retinol Action Skin Overhaul Serum ...
Think of this as a milder retinol. I use this in summer when I'm outside in sunshine and I dont want to thin my skin with the higher intensity UV rays around.
The silky serum is quite hydrating so I dont use a moisturizer or anything else over the top.
The silky serum is quite hydrating so I dont use a moisturizer or anything else over the top.
DoSe Ergothioneine Serum, 30ml
FACE SPFs
Goes on smoothly. Doesnt leave a greasy sheen. I replace my moisturizer with this product in summer. Sinks in clear without leaving a white cast. I use on my neck and chest too.
Traceless UVA/UVB SPF30 Mineral Sunscreen + Primer
Used this on my summer hols in Gozo this year as there wasnt a cloud in the sky and spf30 wasnt going to cut it. Goes on beautifully, feels luxurious and really works.
Anthelios UVAir™ Daily Serum Face Sunscreen SPF 50
This is the spf I carry in my handbag when Im not on holiday. I have a vertical patch of browner toned skin on my forhead and i can swipe this down there, and down my nose if I find myself spending more time in the sun than expected.
Being a stick it wont make a mess in my handbag and doesnt require clean hands to apply.
This also makes it ideal for winter sports too.
The application is clean, doesnt leave sticky fingers and is invisible on my face. The sunblock works beautifully and the bits of me that would burn or go too dark remain the same colour as the rest of my face.
You can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az08BkcfPkej7
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Being a stick it wont make a mess in my handbag and doesnt require clean hands to apply.
This also makes it ideal for winter sports too.
The application is clean, doesnt leave sticky fingers and is invisible on my face. The sunblock works beautifully and the bits of me that would burn or go too dark remain the same colour as the rest of my face.
You can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az08BkcfPkej7
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Vinosun Invisible Sunscreen Stick Spf50 15 Gr
Serums
I love this stuff. And I love the moisuturiser too - you'll find that in the appropriate section. Totally unscented, this serum is a thick liquid - you'll only need 1 pump for your whole face. It sinks in beautifully leaving your skin feeling intensl...
Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Another little drop of magic. I use this when needed. My teenage daughter uses this dialy. An aqueous (water based) serum that has the texture of water. No oil or grease at all. Its fantastic for improving overactive skin that is producing too many o...
This is not an acid or a toner. You only need 4-5 drops patted on to your face. It takes a while to notice the difference so you'll probably get half way through the bottle before you look in the mirror one day and realise that its been a while since...
I've been using this sporadically across the summer as I've been wearing more SPF than is typically required in the UK and I've wanted that little bit of extra support to keep my pores clear beyond my normal cleansing routine.
This is not an acid or a toner. You only need 4-5 drops patted on to your face. It takes a while to notice the difference so you'll probably get half way through the bottle before you look in the mirror one day and realise that its been a while since...
I've been using this sporadically across the summer as I've been wearing more SPF than is typically required in the UK and I've wanted that little bit of extra support to keep my pores clear beyond my normal cleansing routine.
Beauty Pie Superdrops Niacinamide Serum 10%
I wish I could use this every day. This vitamin C serum seemed to brighten my skin so effectively. Tingles slightly as it goes on.
Unfortunately its slightly above my price point so I can only get it if there's an offer on.
Use it in the morning just under your moisturizer or tinted serum. DO give it a minute or 2 to settle in as it can pill a bit. (I find this with most vitamin C serums I've tried though). Sometimes I'll use it at night instead of moisturizer or retino...
(And top tip for those of you who like their tweakments and treatments such as waxing, botox, profilo etc…. stop using retinol a week before your treatment. It gives your skin more resilience and strength to deal with needles or the wrenching out of ...
Unfortunately its slightly above my price point so I can only get it if there's an offer on.
Use it in the morning just under your moisturizer or tinted serum. DO give it a minute or 2 to settle in as it can pill a bit. (I find this with most vitamin C serums I've tried though). Sometimes I'll use it at night instead of moisturizer or retino...
(And top tip for those of you who like their tweakments and treatments such as waxing, botox, profilo etc…. stop using retinol a week before your treatment. It gives your skin more resilience and strength to deal with needles or the wrenching out of ...
Trinny London's New Vitamin C Azelaic Acid Exosomes ...
This vitamin C is at a more every day price point than the Trinny London one which for me is definitely premium. This serum is fantastic too - great at helping to reduce black heads and support stressed skin.
I prefer to use this one at night layering it with Retinol as I find it takes a while longer to sink in to my skin.
I prefer to use this one at night layering it with Retinol as I find it takes a while longer to sink in to my skin.
Vitamin C Serums & Creams
This is now my favourite vitamin C serum and another multi repeat buy. The individually sealed capsules ensure the vitamin C doesnt oxidise whilst it sits on your dressing table. (I have a science background and believe me Vitamin C is extraordinaril...
This product gives that satisfying slight tingle when you put it on your skin - makes it feel like its working. But also means I wouldnt put it too close to your eyes. Use it after your aqueous serums as the formulation is a little oily - in a good w...
This product gives that satisfying slight tingle when you put it on your skin - makes it feel like its working. But also means I wouldnt put it too close to your eyes. Use it after your aqueous serums as the formulation is a little oily - in a good w...
Vitamin C Skincare | Vitamin C Serums & Moisturisers
I cant not use this. I love the Youthbomb range for my midlife skin. With a whole host of actives this aqueous serum goes a long way. Its now in a pump action bottle and 1 pump covers my whole face. When Im not using this regularly it just feels like...
Youthbomb Skincare Collection
BFFs and tinted serums
This is the best skin perfector I’ve ever used and the only ill buy on repeat, gives a very light cover, smooths imperfections contains spf30 and lasts all day. The glow up is so good I’ve literally been stopped in the street and asked how I make my ...
BFF Cream | Skin Perfector
This is my winter equivalent of the BFF SPF. I use it when 95% of my day is infront of a screen and indoors and I want a bit of coverage on my face for work.
The level of coverage is slightly higher than the BFF. Closer to a foundation but still very forgiving - I can massage it in with my fingers. A little goes along way - I only need to use 1 pump to get the level of coverage I want, and my skin tone lo...
This serum has great staying power - it keeps you looking put together all day. You get slightly less of a glow up than with the BFF but thats not always a bad thing if you're in alot of virtual meetings and under electric light.
The level of coverage is slightly higher than the BFF. Closer to a foundation but still very forgiving - I can massage it in with my fingers. A little goes along way - I only need to use 1 pump to get the level of coverage I want, and my skin tone lo...
This serum has great staying power - it keeps you looking put together all day. You get slightly less of a glow up than with the BFF but thats not always a bad thing if you're in alot of virtual meetings and under electric light.
Trinny London BFF De-Stress Tinted Serum, Lucy
A new comer on my dressing table - this serum took a little time to get used to. The colour match is excellent. The coverage is light this is a tinted serum that isnt trying to be a foundation. Its the thinest tinted serum I"ve used; about the textur...
Superluminous Tinted Skin Glow Serum in Fair
Blemish Treatments
I've used this on whiteheads and those underskin pimples for at least 20years. A little goes a long way. And it definitely speeds the spot lifecycle through - and sometimes even stops a spot developing if I've used it early enough.
you can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az0KUGaJHaE64
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
you can get it here: https://amzlink.to/az0KUGaJHaE64
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Blemish SOS™ - Rapid Action Spot Treatment Gel
If you've not discovered the revolution in zit treatment that is the pimple patch then I can only advise you to get some right now. Little miracles. The number of times I've succombed to popping or squeezing a spot in the evening, popped a patch on a...
There's nothing more satisfying than peeling off the sticker and seeing the white patch that has absorbed all the pus and bacteria for you while you slept.
There are numerous brands out there. I prefer ones infused with salicylic acid. Either way depriving those pesky zit bacteria of oxygen and food by sealing in and absorbing all the mositure definitely stops them in their tracks
you can get them here: https://amzlink.to/az0XSd59TLbNR
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
There's nothing more satisfying than peeling off the sticker and seeing the white patch that has absorbed all the pus and bacteria for you while you slept.
There are numerous brands out there. I prefer ones infused with salicylic acid. Either way depriving those pesky zit bacteria of oxygen and food by sealing in and absorbing all the mositure definitely stops them in their tracks
you can get them here: https://amzlink.to/az0XSd59TLbNR
this is an affiliate link and I will earn a small commission if you are kind enough to use it.
Dots Spots Patches for Face
Supplements for better skin
We make less Hyaluronic acid as we age. And while I love it as a skin care ingredient for its hydrating effect on the surface of my skin. I also am a believer in going at things from the inside out too.
Hyaluronic acid helps more than you skin. Its present in our joints. Each molecule can bind up to 50 water molecules to make a cushioning gel. I definitely feel the difference if I stop taking them for a while.
Hyaluronic acid helps more than you skin. Its present in our joints. Each molecule can bind up to 50 water molecules to make a cushioning gel. I definitely feel the difference if I stop taking them for a while.
Hyaluronic Acid Capsules High Strength
I've tried alot of collagen supplements over the years. Many have a fishy taste and dont dissolve well.
This stuff is amazing and the one I repeat buy. Its a powder that dissolves in coffee instantly and is utterly flavourless once in there. It comes from beef - so apologies to the vegetarians and vegans that come across this post.
Collagen is a protein in our connective tissue which is particularly rich in amino acids called proline and hydroxy proline. Whole collagen will not get ferried to where collagen is required. But, if you ingest collagen or collagen peptides, and your...
I think my creeky lower back and knee joints are better when I'm taking this supplement. And believe its helping slow the aging process in my face….but since Im not willing to stop taking it, I'll never know what I'd look like without it.
This stuff is amazing and the one I repeat buy. Its a powder that dissolves in coffee instantly and is utterly flavourless once in there. It comes from beef - so apologies to the vegetarians and vegans that come across this post.
Collagen is a protein in our connective tissue which is particularly rich in amino acids called proline and hydroxy proline. Whole collagen will not get ferried to where collagen is required. But, if you ingest collagen or collagen peptides, and your...
I think my creeky lower back and knee joints are better when I'm taking this supplement. And believe its helping slow the aging process in my face….but since Im not willing to stop taking it, I'll never know what I'd look like without it.
Collagen Glow Up Powder 420g
Confidence and Kindness
Kindness to yourself and others makes everything better - including what you see when you look in the mirror.
Be kind to yourself first - you are the first person you see each day when you look in the mirror for the first time.
Whilst we are definitely not all beauty queens, take a moment to say something kind to yourself when you first look in the mirror.
Your brain looks for evidence to support the thoughts you give it.
So tell it you're looking pretty good considering. And remind yourself of 1 small thing thats good in your life - even if all you can manage is that you're glad your toilet flushes and you remembered to get toothpaste the day before. Start small and ...
Whilst we are definitely not all beauty queens, take a moment to say something kind to yourself when you first look in the mirror.
Your brain looks for evidence to support the thoughts you give it.
So tell it you're looking pretty good considering. And remind yourself of 1 small thing thats good in your life - even if all you can manage is that you're glad your toilet flushes and you remembered to get toothpaste the day before. Start small and ...
Be kind when you talk to yourself
Give a stranger, colleague or friend a complement. The size of the effect is in that order.
If you see someone in the street who is wearing a fabulous skirt tell them. You'll make their day.
If you see someone in the street who is wearing a fabulous skirt tell them. You'll make their day.
Give a complement
Resistance or Strength Train for self confidence.
I group up asthmatic and regularly skipped gym class by waving my inhaler as an excuse. My inner monologue was someone who wasnt fit.
However, I started working out in my 20s when I realised that the gorgeous people I worked with were regular gym users. I joined a gym too and I've worked out periodically ever since - with a gap when the children were young and their timetables came...
Its now 8 years since I incorporated strength and resistance training into my regular routine. I've never been fitter. I dont get as cold in winter as my metabolism is burning higher due to the extra muscle I've grown. I cannot for love nor money loo...
The thing about strength training is that it gives you confidence in the way you carry your body.
-If you want to bound up a flight of stairs you can. And you're not out of puff at the top.
-If you want to pick up that 24pack of beer from the bottom shelf in the supermarket you can. And you do it with the correct form to support your back and knowing you can get it in your shopping trolley.
Start with body weight and a youtube video if you're on a budget.
Start with 1 minute a day if thats all the time you've got - lunge whilst you're waiting for the kettle to boil.
Just start.
Build the habit.
This is you now for the rest of your life.
Strong and Capable.
I group up asthmatic and regularly skipped gym class by waving my inhaler as an excuse. My inner monologue was someone who wasnt fit.
However, I started working out in my 20s when I realised that the gorgeous people I worked with were regular gym users. I joined a gym too and I've worked out periodically ever since - with a gap when the children were young and their timetables came...
Its now 8 years since I incorporated strength and resistance training into my regular routine. I've never been fitter. I dont get as cold in winter as my metabolism is burning higher due to the extra muscle I've grown. I cannot for love nor money loo...
The thing about strength training is that it gives you confidence in the way you carry your body.
-If you want to bound up a flight of stairs you can. And you're not out of puff at the top.
-If you want to pick up that 24pack of beer from the bottom shelf in the supermarket you can. And you do it with the correct form to support your back and knowing you can get it in your shopping trolley.
Start with body weight and a youtube video if you're on a budget.
Start with 1 minute a day if thats all the time you've got - lunge whilst you're waiting for the kettle to boil.
Just start.
Build the habit.
This is you now for the rest of your life.
Strong and Capable.
Strength train for Confidence