Face Masks

Skincare add-ons

So a couple of weeks ago I did a post on my basic skincare routine and it was exactly that, basic. It featured the five products I use every single day but on other days I add to my routine. So I decided it might be a good idea to do one or two add-ons to that post with treatment products, starting with masks.  

I chose to write about the two masks I reach for the most. One is perfect for when your skin is feeling dry and needs some life put back into it, the other great to really clean the skin and stop breakouts.

The moisturise boost

Origins Drink Up Intensive, Overnight mask. - 100ml, £22
I have dry skin and had my eye on this for so long. It's a little bit on the pricey side but it's been lasting me really well. It's called a 'mask' but I literally just slap it on at night and wash off in the morning so it's a great no fuss product. I use this probably once a week or more if my skin is looking a bit dull.
This is something you can really see the benefits of instantly. The next morning after using it my skin is so hydrated and looks more plump, it really is wonderful.
The big bonus is that it smells amazing. Apricots and Mango. Delicious.

On a side note: If this is a little too pricey for you the Soap and Glory Beauty Sleep Accelerator isn't the exact same but I do find it very similar. It also has the same wonderful texture and smell.

The Deep Clean

Super Facialist by Una Brennan, Tea Flower Pore Purifying Clay Mask what a mouthful - £8.99
I think it's always good to use a clay mask regularly and this is the one I always go to. Does the job at a wonderful price, what's not to love? It leaves your skin really clean and feeling fresh without drying it out. I use it once a week too and leave it on for five minutes before washing off. Absolutely love it, reduces breakouts as well as clearing any.

Two products that do exactly what I want from masks. However that won't stop me. Next to try on my wish list is the REN Glycolatic Radiance Renewal Mask and of course the famous Aesop Parsley Seed Masque!

Basic Skincare Routine

For the past 6 months I've been investing more money into my skincare and finding a good routine (which used to be a make-up wipe and slapping on nivea). Without a doubt it's worth the time and money because looking after your skin in the long run, will pay off big time. There's only so much make-up can do, a good base is so important.

Here's my basic routine at the moment and the products I'm currently in love with:

Clinique Take The Day Off cleansing balm - £21

For £21 it's not cheap but it's certainly not as expensive as other cleansing balms that do the same thing. Also because it's a balm a little goes a long way, personally I think this is a very good price for what you get.

 This will take ALL your make-up off and it will do it effortlessly. It's for all skin types and even works for those with sensitive skin as it's not fragranced. I literally rub it into my eyelashes and it does not irritate even slightly. 

To use: Take a small amount, and massage into face (dry) over all make-up. Use a flannel or muslin cloth to wash away. I keep mine with a stack of cloths so I have a clean one for every day. 

After cleansing I go to:

Pixi Glow Tonic - £16

This is my go to toner, it's amazing, it's so cheap and I'm really sorry it's a bitch to get hold of!

This sorts out any of my dry and flaking patches of skin, it will really help if you're prone to break outs, it's just an amazing exfolliator. 

However, I also use the Aveda Botanical Kinetics Exfolliant (it lives at my boyfriends place) and I LOVE it! Little bit more expensive than pixi glow at £17 for 150ml but much easier to get your hands on.

Aveda Botanical Kinetics Toning Agent - £17 for 100ml

I have a tiny 50ml bottle that I got from the skincare starter set (worth a buy if you haven't used Aveda before) that seems to be lasting me ages. This is a toner I use on days when I'm taking a break from Pixi glow, or over Pixi glow. I can't really explain why I love it so much, but I really do. 

I love that it's a spray?! But honestly it's a great product that makes a difference. Lovely for dry skin. 

Hydraluron - £24.99

A hideous price but a great product, make sure you look out for when it's on offer at Boots. It's a serum you put on before moisturising and it absorbs instantly and absorbs your moisturiser. Works great with my dry skin, gives my skin a lovely plump appearance!

Origins Make A Difference + - £34

This is a new addition to my collection so I won't go into it too much. So far so good, feels lovely on the skin and really moisturising. I don't think you can go wrong with Origins when looking for a moisturiser.

I use it morning and night!

So that's it, my basic daily skincare routine! I think the most important part of skincare is that it is a routine, you need to stick to it. Even when you're tired or a make-up wipe is nearer! Do any of these ring a bell? Let me know what products you are using, I'd love to get some recommendations!