Skincare

A Few More Skincare Empties Feb 2025

- Vicki Leave a comment

Caudalie Beauty Elixir

What an iconic product, I have been using it for over 15 years and have been through so many bottles.  The scent is beautiful, botanical and reminds me of Summer holidays, as I always take a mini bottle away with me for refreshing my skin on flights and after a day in the sun, I also really like to use it to freshen up my makeup. Caudalie always use the best natural ingredients in their skincare and this mist is jam packed with them. There is no better way to give your skin and mood an instant boost, this is a must-have product in your beauty routine and I love it, the blend of essential oils, plant extracts, and antioxidants, really work wonders.

Green grape: Hydrating and radiance boosting and protects from free radicals.
Rose essential oil: Hydrating and soothing.
Rosemary essential oil:Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial.
Orange Blossom: Calming and soothing

You can use it as a toner, a setting spray, or a refreshing spritz throughout the day. I think it’s one of those product you always have and always go back too, it is simple, but effective.

*Teoxane Eye Cream

If you haven’t heard of this brand, you have to go and read my more in depth review of them here. This eye cream is highly regarded in the skincare world for its innovative use of TEOXANE’s patented RHA (Resilient Hyaluronic Acid) technology, which is often found in injectable treatments but seamlessly integrated into this eye cream for at-home use. It is nothing short of fantastic, I am not exaggerating. Years of scientific research and innovation have gone into all their products. This product targets the early signs of ageing and works to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, reduce dark circles, and minimise puffiness. I like the cooling metal applicator which not only feels refreshing but also helps to de-puff the under-eye area, it is like a spa treatment.

RHA (Resilient Hyaluronic Acid): Provides long-lasting hydration, plumps the skin, and smooths fine lines.
Dermo-Restructuring Complex: Nourishes and protects with amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins & minerals.
NovHyal: Stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production for skin regeneration and repair.
Escin (from Horse Chestnut Extract): Reduces puffiness and improves micro-circulation.
Caffeine: Helps diminish dark circles and reduce under-eye swelling
Arnica Extract: Soothes and reduces inflammation, calming the eye area.

It has a fragrance-free formula that ensures even the most sensitive skin types can benefit from this eye cream without irritation. I also like that the formula is lightweight and silky in texture and I find it absorbs quickly, I used it morning and night. I am sad I have used it all up, but despite the high price tag, I will be repurchasing as I have seen great results.

UpCircle Night Cream with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide

This was such a lovely product to use, the scent is beautiful, and the cream has a rich texture which leaves your skin feeling velvety smooth. I had seen this brand a lot over the past few years but had never tried anything from them before, this was a great first product to try, and now I have a list of things I want to from their range.

Hyaluronic Acid: Deeply hydrates, plumps skin, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Balances oil production, evens skin tone, reduces redness, and minimises pores.
Upcycled Blueberry Extract: Rich in antioxidants, protects against free radicals & promotes skin repair.
Rosehip Oil: Nourishes, hydrates, and supports skin regeneration, reducing scars and fine lines.
Shea Butter: Provides intense hydration, soothes dry skin, and improves skin elasticity.
Aloe Vera: Calms irritation, hydrates, and helps heal and soothe sensitive or inflamed skin.

So if you are looking for a night cream that is fantastic for hydration, soothing and radiance, this is the one.

L’Oreal Age Perfect Toner

One of my favourite affordable skincare products, it is such a staple in my routine. It gently exfoliates and helps give your skin a healthy glow. I prefer to use it in the morning as it helps smooth skin, calms redness and combats fatigue, so your skin looks fresh, plump and radiant. I have been through countless bottles and always buy it for my mum too, she loves it. It contains some great ingredients,

Magnesium: Reduces inflammation and combats fatigue
Vitamin C:  Brightens skin and helps even out skin tone
Witch Hazel Extract: Soothes irritated skin

This toner is antioxidant-rich and helps protect against environmental stressors, it’s hydrating and helps refresh skin to give it that and healthy glow. It is just a great product.

*Jurlique Herbal Recovery Eye Serum

This cream is so luxurious and the scent of Jurlique’s rose products is so familiar and soothing to me that I just love them. This eye serum was so hydrating and nourishing around my eye area, it helped me to look refreshed and more awake. It is also great at reducing dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, and dehydration, so quite the powerhouse product.

  • Glycerin and avocado oil: ensures that the skin around your eyes remains hydrated, moisturised and smooth.
  • Botanical extracts: such as viola tricolour, yarrow, and Japanese cedar bud provide antioxidant protection, promote elasticity, reduce signs of ageing.

I think the Herbal Recovery range from Jurlique has had a revamp, as I can’t find this specific product to link to. It appears they now offer two eye products in that range. I especially like the sound of the eye oil roll on. I can honestly say there is not a product from this brand that I have not enjoyed, they always put quality ingredients into their entire range.

*L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Le Duo Serum

This is quite a new release from L’Oreal and I love the concept & the clever formula – you get two serums in one, which means double the ingredients to help with wrinkles, firmness, and radiance. On one side, there’s a collagen peptide booster serum that really helps rebuild firmness and smooth out those wrinkles. On the other, it’s packed with Vitamin B3 and C to boost radiance and even out the skin tone. I took it with me on my recent trips to Amsterdam, London, and Manchester, and was so impressed with how my skin stayed glowing and hydrated, even with all the recycled plane air and hotel AC. The formula is rich but not heavy – it nourishes and hydrates from the first use. Loved it, I have repurchased it and haven’t stopped using it.

Have you tried this yet, or spotted it in stores? If you’re missing a targeted anti-wrinkle serum in your skincare routine, this is definitely a must-try.

Miller Harris Peau Santal

This is honestly a fragrance I can’t get enough of. I’ve been through countless (pretty pink) bottles of it, and it still remains my absolute favourite from the brand. I’ve tried quite a few of their other offerings, and while they’re all stunning, Peau Santal just has that something special. It is without a doubt my most worn scent, the one I feel the most confident wearing, and without fail, it’s always the fragrance I make sure to have in my collection. There’s something so comforting yet sophisticated about it, with that beautiful balance of warmth and elegance. It’s definitely a signature scent for me.

Head Notes: Bergamot, Pink Pepper, Saffron
Heart Notes: Sandalwood, Olibanum, Violet Leaf, Papyrus
Lasting Impressions: Sandalwood, Cashmere Woods, Crisp Amber, Vanilla

•this post contains PR samples and affiliate links, If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Five Current Skincare Favourites

- Vicki Leave a comment

Isle Of Paradise Sunny Serum Bronzer*

This was one of those products I kept seeing everywhere in 2024. Even the skincare queen herself, Caroline Hirons, called it a must-have! But I resisted until winter arrived when I didn’t always want to wear foundation, but I still wanted my skin to look healthy and radiant, so I finally gave in and bought a bottle. And let me tell you, I honestly don’t know what I did before this product. I mix it with my moisturiser I find that works for me, and it gives me a subtle, sun-kissed, fresh-faced glow.

It’s incredibly easy to apply, never looks heavy, and instantly makes you look radiant, like you’ve just had the best night’s sleep or cheeky Winter sun holiday. This is an absolute must-have for those lazy days when you don’t want to do a full face of makeup but still want to look put-together with minimal effort It 10000% lives up to the hype and for the price get it in your makeup bag, you will not regret it. LOVE IT. The price is incredible and the product just works.

Vieve Skin Nova Illuminating Primer

Some products get so much hype that you think, surely, it can’t be that good, well, this one really is. Skin Nova primer is simply beautiful, it is the glow you never knew you could get. The radiant luminous glow it gives is unlike anything else, like you’ve just had a facial, a holiday, and the best night’s sleep all in one. Whether you wear it under foundation as a primer or on its own for a fresh, dewy look, you’ll find yourself reaching for it every single day. It’s effortless, luminous, and absolutely stunning. It feels like primers fell out of favour in the beauty world, either people stopped using them or just stopped talking about them. But Skin Nova has changed that and has put primers back in my makeup bag. It is now a step I never skip. Everything Jamie touches turns to gold and I say good on her, her products are fantastic quality and the prices are reasonable and worth it.

Charlotte Tilbury Air Brush Flawless Setting Spray

I had my makeup done at a Charlotte Tilbury makeup counter when I went in looking for a new foundation (which I bought), and the lady who did my makeup used this setting spray to finish the look. Normally, I like to think about my purchases, maybe hunt for a deal online, but this time, I bought everything on the spot, including the brush (who even am I). My brief to the makeup artist was, I wanted my makeup to look fresh, dewy, and seamless, without settling into fine lines, and WOW this setting spray delivered. Not only does it give your skin an instant glow, but it also locks your makeup in place for hours, literally all day long. Your skin looks radiant, hydrated, and flawless without needing touch ups. I have used quite a few setting sprays, and they have worked, but others have felt a little drying, heavy and tacky to the touch, but this one it gives hydration and glow. I have since bought the travel sized bottle so I can always have it in my bag! Well worth the money & the hype.

Votary Super Seed Serum

This is my go-to serum for calming my skin, I am prone to redness and this has been doing the trick. Votary have such a lovely range of skincare, and I am head over heels for this serum. It’s lightweight, silky smooth, and instantly soothing, perfect for calming my skin, especially during colder months or after sun exposure. The benefits of this serum are that it hydrates & plumps with hyaluronic acid, it strengthens & protects with natural peptides and boosts skin resilience with broccoli seed & rosehip oil. Perfect If, like me, you need gentle yet effective skincare, this serum is a must-have, sensitive skin will love it. It carries quite a big price tag, but I snapped it up in sale, so it is worth looking for a deal.

Kiehl’s Super Multi Corrective Cream*

I have been on a mission to even out my skin tone and combat dullness, and this cream is fantastic for that. I have used Kiehl’s products for years and always feel like they deliver on quality and results, this cream was something I had never tried before, but I’ve been using it every night for almost 2 months and really enjoying it. Not only does it help with skin tone, but it has so many other benefits, it helps, lift, smooth, and firm skin, whilst boosting radiance and enhancing elasticity. So it targets signs of ageing. The cream is just the right texture and feels comforting, rich and hydrating. It has become one of my favourite products in my evening skincare routine.

Let me know if you have tried any of the products I have mentioned, or if you also have them as favourite products. I would love to know what skincare you have discovered lately and that you would recommend I try. Leave me a comment.

*this post contains affiliate links, If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. All products mentioned were purchased by me and not gifted or received as PR.

Teoxane Skincare Review

- Vicki Leave a comment

Teoxane are pioneers in aesthetic innovation and skincare excellence. They’re a Swiss-based brand who has earned its reputation as a market leader in both aesthetic Hyaluronic Acid dermal fillers and dermocosmetic skincare. Renowned for high-quality formulations, Teoxane’s products are the result of decades of dedicated research and innovation.

Founded in 2003 by Valérie Taupin, the Teoxane laboratories in Switzerland have continually advanced the fields of aesthetics and skincare. Their commitment to scientific excellence and groundbreaking technologies has solidified their position as a trusted name in the beauty sphere. Whether through their dermal fillers or advanced skincare solutions, Teoxane has combined quality, science, and research to deliver actual results.

I have been trying out 3 products from their skincare collection and in short, I’m beyond impressed with all of them. Even the packaging is sleek and functional, with its white minimal look it gives a very scientific / apothecary vibe. Both the serum and eye cream are in airless packaging, a clever design that ensures optimal preservation of the formula. This innovative feature keeps the product potent and effective for longer, so you can enjoy its full benefits with every use.

Teoxane R(II) Eyes*

The first thing I noticed about this product was its soothing metallic applicator, It delivers an instantly cooling sensation that feels so refreshing and helps to de-puff the delicate under eye area. This feature is such a refreshing way to wake up tired eyes in the morning, making them look more awake and refreshed, even before applying the cream itself.

Say goodbye to tired eyes with Teoxane R[II] Eyes, developed with TEOXANE’s patented RHA (Resilient Hyaluronic Acid) injectable technology, this revolutionary skincare solution targets the delicate eye area, the first to show signs of ageing and fatigue. This product promises,

  • Powerful Anti-Aging Benefits: Smooth fine lines and wrinkles while reducing dark circles and puffiness for a refreshed, youthful look.
  • Cutting-Edge Ingredients: This advanced formula combines TEOXANE’s anti ageing complex (RHA Technology, Dermo-Restructuring Complex, and NovHyal) with targeted active ingredients to deliver expert anti-fatigue and anti-ageing solutions specifically for the eye contour area.
  • Gentle and Effective: Fragrance free and formulated to suit sensitive skin around the eyes, it’s as soothing as it is effective.

Teoxane R[II] EYES has truly transformed my eye care routine. This groundbreaking formula leaves my eyes looking smoother and brighter, with noticeably fewer fine lines. I have to say, I love this eye cream even more than the serum (just a little more). From the soothing, cooling applicator to the lightweight, silky consistency, it’s become my absolute favourite skincare product. I’ve been using it both morning and night for about 6 weeks and I have seen great results, the dark spots around my eyes have faded, my dark circles are far less noticeable, and my concealer has never applied so flawlessly.

This product is a 10/10 for me, I genuinely look forward to using it every day and couldn’t be happier with the results, so far.

Teoxane RHA Serum*

Revitalise your skin the Teoxane RHA Serum designed to target dehydration, dullness, and signs of ageing.

  • Unparalleled Hydration Technology: Featuring the highest concentration of TEOXANE’s patented RHA (Resilient Hyaluronic Acid) technology, this serum delivers deep, long-lasting hydration for visibly rejuvenated skin.
  • Powerful Antioxidant Blend: Packed with remarkable antioxidants and advanced anti ageing ingredients, it works to smooth, tone, and brighten your complexion while improving overall skin properties.
  • Proven Results in Just 14 Days: Experience smoother, more toned skin with a brighter, deeply hydrated appearance in as little as two weeks.

A Game-Changer for Your Skin! This serum is an absolute showstopper. With its gel like consistency, it initially feels slightly tacky upon application, but within moments, it transforms, leaving your skin silky smooth and instantly hydrated. After using this serum consistently for 6–7 weeks, I’ve noticed incredible improvements in my skin, it feels noticeably plumper, softer, and brighter. Even the texture of my skin has improved and is visible smoother.

The fresh, radiant appearance of my skin has even made me reach for makeup less often, my complexion looks naturally vibrant and refreshed. This serum truly delivers on its promises, making it a must-have addition to any skincare routine, and one of my favourite products in mine. I LOVE this serum and don’t think my routine can be without it now.

On my hand is the balm (white rich cream) the serum (clear gel) and the eye cream (beige cream)

Teoxane Deep Repair Balm*

This is a great product for hydrating and soothing damaged, sensitive, or irritated skin, this moisturising balm is designed to provide intensive care for your skin’s recovery and comfort.

  • Advanced Hydration: Formulated with resilient hyaluronic acid, it delivers deep, long-lasting hydration to replenish and restore.
  • Calm and Soothe: Enriched with arnica (floral extract), it reduces redness and calms irritation caused by environmental factors or other stressors.
  • Support Skin Recovery: Perfect for dry, sensitive, or damaged skin, this balm helps repair the skin’s natural barrier while promoting a balanced, even complexion.

This luxurious cream feels instantly calming on the skin. Its rich texture and high quality ingredients make it a great part of my evening skincare routine. What I love most is how it delivers intense hydration (with its resilient hyaluronic acid), making my skin feel plumped, soothed and protected, perfect for the colder Winter months when my skin is at its driest and most sensitive.

If you’re looking for a deeply nourishing, sensitive skin friendly moisturiser to protect and soothe your skin during harsh weather, this one is a must-try, it’s the perfect companion for nurturing sensitive skin back to its best, leaving it hydrated, calm, and radiant.

Out of the 3 products I have tried from Teoxane this is my least favourite not because it doesn’t deliver results but more because I think a good moisturiser is quite easy to find. The eye cream and serum are up there with some of the best skincare I have tried and would highly recommend them. Teoxane have an extensive range of skincare from SPF to cleansers and serums to plumping lip balms, they have it all. I am excited to try more from them and of course repurchase the eye cream and serum.

Let me know if you have heard of or tried anything from this Swiss brand. Let me know your recommendations. You can purchase and browse the range on Teoxane.co.uk

* These products were gifted to me as PR samples but I was not asked to write about them. All opinions are my own.

 

Beauty Bay Skincare

- Vicki Leave a comment

I had no idea that Beauty Bay had their own skincare line, so I bought a few things to try out. It is very affordable and although the packaging is quite basic and no frills, the products themselves are very good. It reminds me of brands like The Ordinary with their focus on delivering great products but not wasting money on overpriced packaging, and I like that! Simple packaging but good quality products.

I bought two of their serums, I am always looking for products that help brighten or hydrate skin, so these two were perfect for me to try. They are different consistencies, the brightening serum is a little thicker and has a cloudy appearance to the liquid, whilst the hydrating serum is thinner and is clear in texture. Both serums feel lovely on the skin and wear well under the rest of my skincare.

The Hydrating Serum contains, Hyaluronic Acid and Glycogen (skin hero ingredients) which draws and retains moisture into the skin, minimising the appearance of fine lines and a tight, dehydrated complexion. Giving you that fresh, plump, healthy look. This serum, supports a stronger skin barrier, helping to protect against environmental aggressors. I love products with Hyaluronic Acid in, especially in the colder, dryer months it just gives your skin that extra boost to look really hydrated and my makeup looks so much smoother after I use a product like this.

The Brightening Serum is equally good, I have been using the hydrating serum in the morning and the brightening serum in my evening skincare routine and that is really working well for me. The brightening serum with vitamin C which is an antioxidant that promotes collagen production, that helps to support healthy skin, whilst a brightening peptide works to increase luminosity by boosting skin cell turnover and targeting dullness. So with consistent use, this serum helps brighten, diminish pigmentation and even out skin tone.

This serum has been a welcomed addition to my skincare routine and I like that it leaves my skin feeling smooth and non-tacky and that the product is so affordable, as it all the beauty bay own brand products.

Now on to maybe my favourite of the three products, the Beauty Bay Chamomile and Oat Lipid Cleansing Balm which is a lovely classic balm to oil cleanser that makes light work of removing makeup and the dirt from the day. It has become an absolute staple in my routine, it makes a very good first cleanse as it melts away stubborn makeup. It is effective on makeup but still gentle, no need to rub or scrub just massage into your skin and the product will easily break down your makeup and leave your skin feeling so smooth and soft.

This balm boasts a formula made up of 86% naturally derived ingredients which include, Oat Lipids which are rich in ceramides, which are essential for maintaining the skin’s barrier and retaining moisture. They help to replenish the skin, leaving it nourished and smooth, whilst gently removing impurities and makeup without stripping the skin. It also contains, Chamomile which is well known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties, making it ideal for soothing irritated or inflamed skin.

Do not let the minimal and no frills packaging put you off trying beauty bay skincare, because the products themselves really are very good. Beauty Bay make it easy to find the right product for you, as they break their products down by skin concern, as use very easy language so you do not get overwhelmed or confused. The quality of ingredients and the focus on affordability is where these products shine, I highly recommend checking them out & adding some products to your routine, specific to your skincare needs.

These products are both vegan and cruelty-free and the packaging is easily recyclable.

Beauty Bay has a great selection of own brand skincare on their website.