French Skincare

Phytomer Cyfolia Skincare

- Vicki Leave a comment
phytomer skincare products

#Gifted Anyone who loves skincare will know just how well the French do it (I mean, how exciting is a trip to a classic French pharmacy), French Skincare always seem to deliver results, and rarely are the products expensive!

I have been trying out a new (to me) French skincare brand called Phytomer which is almost 50 years old (3 generations of the same family) and still produced in Brittany, the stunning bay of Saint-Malo. I am so impressed, not only with the trio of products I have been testing, but also with their ethos of using high quality, local ingredients that are not harmful for the sea.

‘At PHYTOMER, we promote eco-friendly cosmetics that use locally-sourced ingredients from Brittany, with respect for both the sea and the marine farmers who supply us. In our research department, we develop production methods with low environmental impact at every step.’

Phytomer Cleanser Skincare

I have been using three products from their quite newly released, Cyfolia collection. These products centre around one wonderful ingredient, organic Cyfolia algae, which is native to Brittany, France. This collection is vegan, certified organic and contains all-natural formulas that are manufactured in the Phytomer laboratories in France, it really is science lead skincare at its finest.

There are 5 products in this Cyfolia collection, from cleansing, exfoliating and toning right through to a mask and an incredible moisturiser. So everything you need for a complete skincare regime.

Cyfolia Organic Radiance Cleansing Cream

The backbone of a good skincare routine has to be a cleanser. It is the product that washes away makeup, dead skin, environmental aggressors and the dirt of the day, The starting point for the rest of your routine. I love trying out new cleansers, especially cream or balm ones. This one from Phytomer is a classic rich cream cleanser, that feels gentle on the skin. Its hero point for me were that it breaks down makeup well, so many cream cleansers fall short at this. As well as the wonderful marine ingredients (listed below) It also contains,

‘Vegetal accord of aloe vera, rose, and cedarwood enhanced by a spice accord formulated with pink peppercorns’

All in all it’s gentle, leaves skin very soft, clean, less oily and looking refreshed. A good daily cleanser, or a wonderful second cleanse if you wear heavy makeup.

Phytomer Skincare Products

Cyfolia Organic Radiance Exfoliating Cream

I love how good my skin felt after using this exfoliator for even a week. The natural and gentle argan kernel and pomegranate seed particles make extremely effective scrubbies, whilst the creamy texture makes it easy to massage in to the skin. Removing all the dead, dry skin, helping to unclog pores and smooth out your complexion, to reveal a natural radiant glow.

I have been using this exfoliator a couple of times a week, and that has helped to stop my skin looking dull and textured. it is a great skincare step to included in your routine if you’re looking for smoother, brighter, balanced skin, give it a go!

Radiance Hydra-Comforting Cream

I found this moisturiser to have a rich creamy texture, that leaves the skin velvety to the touch and not greasy. It delivers hydration without having that heavy feeling on the skin, it smooths out the skin which means my makeup looks great on top! Think hydrating, luminous, calm skin. A great product to complete your skincare routine.

The marine specific ingredients included in this collection.

Organic Cyfolia Algae – Native to Brittany: Leaves complexion luminous and radiant once more.

Organic Orange Water – Native to Italy: Source of vitamin C and radiance.

OLIGOMER – Native to France: Stimulates cell vitality to leave skin remineralized, strengthened, healthier and better equipped to combat damaging outside factors.

Organic Immortelle – Native to France: Soothes and relieves skin.

Organic Vegetal Oils: Sunflower – Native to France – Sesame – Native to Africa: gently removes make-up for a softer, more supple and perfectly-nourished skin.

phytomer beauty by the sea

If you want to discover more about Phytomer and their wide range of skincare, body care and spa treatments, be sure to visit them at Phytomer.co.uk

*This post contains PR Samples

New Vichy Idéalia Skincare

- Vicki 1 Comment
NEW Vichy Idealia Skincare

NEW Vichy Idealia Skincare

I have tried quite a few products from French skincare experts Vichy over the years and I am always impressed by their quality. I especially loved the Double Glow Peel Mask and Purete Thermale Range because my number one skin concern is dull, lacklustre skin and they both helped my skin look fresh and achieve that natural healthy glow. So when I heard about this new Idéalia range which is formulated to boost radiance I was so excited to put it to the test, and this duo came through my door at just the right time to combat the dulling effects of Winter on my skin.

New Vichy Serum

Vichy Idéalia Radiance Boosting Serum

So this serum has a lovely lightweight consistency (it contains regenerating Vichy Thermal Spa Water) and I have been enjoying using it in the morning as the first step in my skincare regime. It glides on my skin and instantly gives is a smooth, soft feel. Its emulsified texture leaves a light, non-greasy, protective film on the skin’s surface and protects the complexion from the microparticles that it collects throughout the day.

  • Radiance is restored and dullness reduced
  • Skin texture appears smoother
  • Vichy Mineralising Thermal Water strengthens the skin against aggressors
  • Tested on sensitive skin under dermatological control
  • Hypoallergenic

This Idéalia range is formulated to help repair and restore your complexion so it looks healthy and has that fresh glow. I am all about trying to achieve that glow! It is safe to say that Vichy has packed both products full of incredible ingredients that help protect against environmental aggressors, stimulates cellular repair and gently exfoliates the skin’s surface.

NEW Vichy Radiance Peeling Solution

Vichy Idéalia Peeling – Night Peeling Care

Over the past 3 months, this has become an integral part of my evening skincare regime, I use it after cleansing by applying it with a cotton pad, (avoiding the eye contour) I just sweep it across my skin and it gently exfoliates the skin whilst the active ingredients illuminate skin from within.

If you have tried other glycolic acids but found them too much for your sensitive skin then I highly recommend trying this Vichy one as it is very gentle and a little product goes a long way. This formula has a combination of 4% glycolic acid and 5% hepes to provide an exfoliating effect whilst boosting cell turnover.

  • Formulated with blueberry polyphenols, fermented black tea extract & Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water
  • Wake up to the look of naturally glowing skin
  • Evens skin tone and smoothes fine lines
  • Evens complexion
  • Awakens dull skin to reveal a natural glow

I think this has really helped even out my skin and give it that refreshed healthy glow. My skin also feels smoother and softer since using both products and I’ve found my makeup also sits better, which is a real bonus.

I’ve been very impressed with both products but out of the two (if I was forced to only repurchase one) I don’t think I could be without the Vichy Idéalia Peeling – Night Peeling Care. It is unlike any other product I am using at the moment and I know how important it is to use glycolic acid to help renew and rejuvenate skin. I think I have found the right fit for me.

Have you tried either of these products from the new Vichy Idéalia range or do you have any recommendations for gentle glycolic acid toners?

*This post contains PR samples

Embryolisse Skincare Review

- Vicki Leave a comment
Embryolisse Skincare

Embryolisse Skincare

We all love French skincare right! I’ve loved it since I saw Lisa Eldridge do a French Pharmacy Haul years ago. Her skin is glowing and beautiful, so French skincare has been in my routine and on my radar ever since.

Last October I introduced 3 products from well known French Skincare brand Embryolisse, I’ve used a few products from their line over the years and have always been impressed with both the price and quality. I’ve been putting three moisturisers to the test and what better time of year than the deep dark depths of Winter to see how well a moisturiser performs. It’s been so wet and cold in Cornwall and I work from home so always have the central heating on and that shows in my skin. It has been nice to have a trio of moisturisers that combat dull, dehydrated skin.

Embryolisse Skincare Review

Embryolisse Rich Moisturising Repair Cream

This rich moisturiser is beautifully rich in texture and is the perfect way to combat the effects of the cooler months on our skin. The wind, rain and central heating can have a such a negative effect on your skin. I have been using this more heavy cream as part of my evening skincare routine and it helps keep my skin supple and looking fresh.

The formula takes inspiration from the original and best-selling product Lait Crème Concentre, but this Rich Moisturising Repair Cream just offers a little extra hydration for those days when your skin is more parched and dull. I even use this as a hand cream and often carry it on my handbag to use on the go.

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentre – Limited Paris Edition 

This rich moisturising lotion is Embryloisse’ best selling product and an industry staple. It’s been a cult must have since the 50’s! The fact that this is a 5 in 1 multi-benefit use product makes it a great product to have in your skincare regime, you can use it as :-

  • Creamy Moisturiser,
  • Makeup Primer
  • Make-up Remover
  •  Repairing Masque
  • After-shave product.

This moisturiser feels so hydrating on my skin and leaves it smooth to the touch and incredibly soft. It isn’t as thick as the Repair Cream and I like to use this one as part of my morning routine as it really does work well under makeup. This cream is known for its skin perfecting, smoothing, plumping and softening benefits for all skin types.

This exclusive Paris edition of the much-loved crème is a an homage to the home of Embryolisse, and depicts a chic French femme cycling along the left-bank, with the city of lights and the Eiffel Tower behind her. The prettiest packaging you will find all season, this Limited Edition design conveys the easy French glamour the fashion and beauty Industry has come to love.

Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre

Embryolisse Intense Smooth Radiant Complexion

I feel this is the perfect cream for me, I am in my late (late) 30’s and already seeing the first signs of ageing, I like to include a few products in my routine that are a little more targeted to these issues and this Intense Fatigue Cream is ideal. It uses the most potent anti-ageing and revitalising skincare ingredients on the market. With the ability to target the telltale signs of tiredness, this anti-ageing cream is packed with a powerful cocktail of hyaluronic acid and natural sugars.

  • Omega 9 restructures the skin and promotes skin elasticity and firmness
  • Alfafa and lupine extracts stimulate collagen and refresh eyes by reducing puffiness and dark circles
  • Vitamin E helps protect against premature ageing.

I like to use this both morning and night, it’s not too heavy but it provides a good amount of hydration to the skin. I often wear it on top of other moisturisers, especially around the eye area and my forehead. They’re the places which are showing the first signs of ageing and this cream helps plump and smooth the skin, whilst, reducing the appearance of fine lines.

Embryolisse Skincare Releases

What skincare have you introduced into your skincare regime this Winter? Let me know if you’ve used any of the Emryolisse products I’ve mentioned, or if you have tried anything else from their range.

*This post contains PR Samples

QVC TSV Decleor 5 Piece Perfecting and Hydrating Collection

- Vicki Leave a comment
Decleor Perfecting Hydrating Collection QVC TSV

Decleor Perfecting Hydrating Collection QVC TSV

If you’re a fan of Decléor skincare, or if you just love skincare in general then you’re going to want to mark your calendars because Decléor are bringing one of their best ever deals to QVC. On Sunday 13th August for 24 hours ONLY you will be able to get your hands on this incredible 5 Piece Perfecting and Hydrating Collection which is worth £190 but will be on offer for only £66. Such a fantastic saving.

This 5 Piece Collection includes a mixture of Decléor favourites and also an exciting new launch. Oh and I’m excited to tell you that two out of the 5 products are in the huge supersize bottles!

One really good thing about this collection is you get a great selection of both skincare and bodycare so you can refresh your routine ready for Autumn for ultimate head-to-toe hydration. This set includes,

Prolagene Energising Gel 400ml supersize

Hydra Floral Hydrating Light Cream 50ml

Hydra Floral White Petal Perfecting Concentrate 30ml

Alguaromes Shower Gel 400ml supersize

Neroli Night Balm 15ml

Decleor 5 piece perfecting hydrating QVC-TSV-August2017

Decleor Hydra Floral White Petal Skin Perfecting Concentrate 30ml

This highly concentrated blend of botanical and essential oils is the first step in your skincare routine after cleansing, you apply it before your serum. It visibly reduces the appearance of dark spots and skin blemishes, refines your skin and helps achieve a brighter, radiant complexion. This 98% naturally derived skin perfecting concentrate contains a combination of proven brightening ingredients: Sweet Orange Essential Oil, Pea extract, and Hyaluronic Acid provide optimal hydration and radiance. Balanced with Chamomile and Rose Floral Water, this concentrate is gentle on the skin. Now how nourishing does that sound? I am so excited to have my hands on this bottle of skincare magic and I can’t wait to put it to the test.

Decleor Neroli Night Balm 15ml

This is one of my favourite Decléor products, it is so luxurious and is lovely to massage in to your skin at night. Its active ingredients include essential oils of Basil to purify and heal the skin, Neroli to soften and Camomile to prevent the appearance of dark spots and calm the skin, plus Tonka Bean to boost micro-circulation. A combination of plant oils including Avocado, Hazelnut and Beeswax help hydrate and repair. This is one product you need in your regime to revive tired looking skin!

Hydra Floral Hydrating Light Cream 50ml

This is one of Decléor’s most well-known, hero products and it is one of my absolute favourites too. DECLÉOR’s Hydra Floral range uses innovative ingredients and technology to mimic a plant’s remarkable hydration process and keep you fresh-faced and beautiful all day long. It contains some beautiful hydrating and protecting active ingredients including Wild Pansy Extract, Samphire Extract, Neroli Essential Oil, Moringa Oleifera Proteins and Sunflower Extract.

This is a light & fresh cream which ensures skin is kept perfectly hydrated and protected from pollution and free radicals. Its unique formulation includes moisture-boosting active ingredients to deliver immediate and long-lasting hydration, plus powerful plant extracts to help protect the skin and preserve its youthful radiance. It feels rich but lightweight on your skin and leaves your skin nourished and silky smooth. This cream is a must have.

Supersize Decleor Skincare QVC TSV

Decleor Prolagene Energising Gel 400ml

This is in a supersized 400ml version so you won’t be running out anytime soon. This gel is the perfect product to use to help get smooth, firm skin whilst also visibly reducing scarring and stretch marks. Prolagène Gel contains an amino acid called Proline L., which is similar to plant collagen and helps rebuild the skin’s supporting fibres. The formulation also includes Osmanthus Absolute for its potent healing action. This gel leaves an invisible supportive and protective film making it perfect to use during and after weight loss, particularly during pregnancy, for smoother and firmer skin. Remember this product can be used on both your face and body to help revitalise and tone your skin

 Aroma Cleanse Alguaromes Toning Shower and Bath Gel 400ml

This huge supersized bottle of Alguaromes shower gel is infused with essential oil from the rind of lemons, the flowers of sweet majoram, lavender and rosemary. This is such a luxury shower and bath gel and I love using it because it never dries my skin out, instead it gently cleanses and the cooling gel turns into a beautiful, gentle and invigorating foam for a feeling of vitality. It smells like a spa in your bathroom after you’ve used this and this 400ml bottle is going to last you a very, very long time.

QVC TSV 13 August 2017 Decleor

Decleor 5 Piece Perfecting and Hydrating Collectio

Decleor 5 Piece Perfecting and Hydrating Collection Worth OVER £160 available for £66 for 24 hours only

*This post contains PR samples