This months skincare favourites

I have recently discovered some products that I am really loving at the moment that I thought I would share with you all!

Zelens - Z Luminous Brightening Serum


Firstly, it has to be Zelen’s luminous brightening serum. I bought this from eBay just before Christmas at an absolute bargain price, I have been wanting to try it for some time so I simply couldn’t resist.  I first used it on Christmas day and immediately noticed a glowing effect on my skin. So much so that I used very little make up that day (except a bright red lip) as I wanted to show off my skin! I have been using it every morning since and I can safely say I am addicted. It claims to ‘diminish the appearance of dark spots and discolouration, evens skin tone and enhances radiance, while refining skin texture. Leaves skin brighter, clearer, softer and younger-looking’. I have noticed it has considerably brightened my complexion and has evened out my skin tone too. The formula contains many active ingredients, one of them being Niacinamide which is in high amounts, it is well known for being great at tackling hyperpigmentation. It’s perfect for mixing with other active ingredients such as my retinol and ferulic acid solution to make it work that bit harder. 
 

 

It is worth mentioning that it has also lightened my skin slightly and this is probably due to the zinc-glycine complex. I personally don’t mind this effect as it is winter so the rest of my body is quite fair skinned right now but maybe in the summer when I tan very easily and my face remains still quite fair it may be a slight issue. But for now, it is doing a great job of minimising the appearance of a patch of pigmentation on my forehead, some freckles I have near my eyebrow and also slowly helping to fade any scars left from pesky spots! If you interested in this but now sure if you want to fork out £135, I would suggest indeed labs Peptabright, whilst it may not quite be in the same league as Zelens, I think it’s a fantastic affordable option for those looking to deal with mild hyperpigmentation or just want a glow to the skin.

Avène - Cicalfate 


 
This has been my saviour when trying to deal with my perioral dermatitis (see my post on sulfate shampoos for more info). Cicalfate is repair cream that purifies and soothes irritated skin rapidly and has anti-bacterial agents encourage healing. I apply this cream every day and night around my nose, lip and chin areas as this is where I am most sensitive. It immediately calms my to redness and irritation, I feel like a there is a lovely comforting barrier which helps to protect and heal my skin...I slather it on! It is non-comedogenic (it won’t clog your pores) and is hypoallergenic which makes it ideal for any skin type.

 


I also like to use it on my blemishes. It speeds up the healing process quite significantly and minimises scarring too. I just make sure to really rub it into the affected area as often as I can, it is white in the tube but easily absorbs into the skin. It can also be used on rashes, burns, cuts and any areas of dryness too, it would make for a brillie hand (or foot) cream during the winter. I think it is great multi use product and I can't imagine not having it in my stash.. I just know when it runs out I will definitely be purchasing another in its place!

La Roche Posay - Serozinc



This is cult spritz toner which has been highly raved about. It only contains three ingredients which is water, sodium chloride and zinc sulphate making it friendly for even sensitive skin types whilst it is aimed at oily blemish prone skin. 

 

I like to layer this on top of my Pixi glow tonic as I still like to use glycolic acid in my toner stage. Whilst you are supposed to spray directly onto the skin, I personally find this quite messy.. It always ends up in my hair and on my ears! So instead I spray a load onto a cotton pad and quickly sweep it across my face concentrating on areas that need most attention. It leaves my skin looking more matte and feeling smooth and refreshed. I like that it reduces any inflammed areas and takes away the shine from any blemishes which otherwise stick out like a sore thumb! It makes a nice canvas for layering further skincare products as the skin is left feeling purified. I like the addition of zinc sulphate in my routine and can see its benefits, as it retails for around £8, it makes it an affordable option too. I can definitely see this being used a lot more in the summer when I am in need of controlling the oiliness of my face! 

Have you used any of these products? What did you think? Please comment below, would love to hear from you! 
 
Xoxo