Although I’m always testing new products, there are a handful that I return to throughout the month, the ones that I use when I really want to look and feel my best. These are my recent go-to products.
James Read Instant Bronzing Spray is the only home spray tan I’ve ever tried that I can literally just spray on and go, zero blending required. This applies in a fine mist with an instant tint, which then develops into a wear-off tan over a few hours. The colour is very subtle, so great for pale skins. I’ve discovered that this is brilliant for foolproof hand and feet tanning, so I’m trying to save it for that! The fine mist does fill the air, so I apply it in the shower cubicle or back garden (weather & neighbours permitting!).
It’s rare that a base makes it into my favourites but Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Tinted Balm totally has. I’d wanted to try this for ages and it was even better than I hoped. Tinted Balm implies tinted moisturiser, but the coverage is definitely more than that on me, while veering on the light side. It’s quite thick in texture and stays fairly matt, while retaining a finish that’s close to my own skin - lovely for a natural make-up look and surprisingly buildable.
d.j.v. beautenizer Fiberwig® LX is a mascara with built-in brush on lash fibres, which extend the length of lashes. It takes a little bit of fiddling to achieve the full effect, but much less than other similar products I’ve tried and oh so worth it. While it doesn’t add a lot of volume, the length this achieves is total novelty lashes for me. The djv volumising formula is next on my wish list.
Laura Mercier Rouge Nouveau in ‘Mod’ is my latest going-out lipstick love. A vivid orange-toned ‘Marilyn Monroe’ red, it’s a real wow colour with a matt finish. I usually apply this over blotted lip balm and use a lip pencil to subtley define the edges, as the 100% wax-free formula has very little slip, hence the amazing staying power! Perfect if I’m out for dinner and don’t want to reapply all evening.
I have quite sensitive skin on my body, so try and stick to skin friendly formulas for everyday use. Elemental Herbology Watermelon & Cucumber is incredibly soothing and refreshing on my skin and I love the scent and texture so much that I do try to save it for when I really need it. Sunburn, rashes and freshly shaved or epilated legs all embrace this delicious product - and I’d normally completely avoid applying anything on my skin when it plays up. Seriously impressed by this brand.
A number of skin experts (inc Mrs Hirons) have told me that my skin is dehydrated recently (I’m downing a bottle of sparkling water as I type), so I’ve been turning to moisture-giving masks to help restore its equilibrium. Clarins HydraQuench Cream-Mask has been a bit of a life saver, ok - skin saver! I apply a layer of this thick creamy mask on my face and neck and watch my skin practically inhale it! Any excess can be removed after 10 mins, but I like to leave it on overnight. An essential after a night out or when I want to look my best the next day.
Intense repairing duo, Alterna Caviar Repairx Instant Recovery Shampoo & Conditioner have been on my hair pedestal for months now and I really recommend it if your locks are in need of tlc. This set lives in my extra special products basket and is reached for when my hair is desperado, in need of a boost, or on its way to a special occasion. It ain’t cheap, but it is worth every penny. Super rich, nourishing and glossy-giving; it’s love.
ESPA Mandarin Lip Balm - with wild mango butter, pomegranate and rosemary - is delicately scented and softens lip with a layer of soothing moisture with zero gloop. I love the pretty packaging and mirror inside the lid, a little slice of every day lip-kind luxury.
Which products have you been loving lately?
