Review: Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energising Face Wash

Hi everyone,

I have been using the Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energising face wash as part of my evening skincare routine for a good few months, and I'm really enjoying it.

I actually chose to purchase this cleanser I had a few reviews that said it was brilliant for people who have oily/ combination skin. So, I thought I would give it a try.

It has a lovely mild mint fragrance that is very refreshing on the skin, and also a little bit goes a very long way. I use a slightly bigger size than a 5p, and it seems to get the job. It also foams up on the size, but only ever slightly.

Claims

- Formulated with caffeine, vitamins & invigorating citrus extracts to refresh and waken the skin

- Prepares the skin for a less irritating, more comfortable shave

- Helps skin to resist the effects of environmental stress, & gives even dull, tired-looking skin a fresher, healthier appearance

Overall I have really impressed with the Kiehl's Facial Fuel face wash, as it does an excellent job at keeping the oils at bay while also making my skin feel cleaner and fresher. I also love the mint fragrance, as its only mild and it doesn't irritate the skin while I'm cleansing.

Products I've Used Up - June 2019

Hi everyone,

It's empties time again, and this time I seemed to have gone through quite a lot of products. 

L'Oreal Sensi Balance Shampoo

This is a professional product from L'Oreal that is aimed at people who have a sensitive scalp. This is a lovely lightweight shampoo that also has a fresh scent. I only had to use a small amount every time I used this shampoo, and it made my hair feel clean as well as super soft. This took me ages to get through, as I only used it around once a week.

Body Shop Pinita Colada Shower Gel

This was a lovely shower gel from the Body Shop, but sadly this scent was a limited edition summer fragrance that came out a couple of years ago.

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

This is an awesome product from First Aid Beauty, and it works wonders if your experiencing chapped hands; which is what I used this product for. Its also very hydrating for the skin.

Body Shop Seaweed Gel Cleanser

This is a brilliant cleanser from the Body Shop, especially if you have oily/ combination skin. This is lightweight cleansing gel, and it doesn't strip the skin of any of its natural oils. It also has a lovely fresh scent, which makes it a pleasant experience to use. I have gone through three of these one after the other. I would recommend this cleanser if your looking for something effective, while being on a budget.

Eucerin Dermo Purifyer Cleanser

I really wasn't keen on this cleanser, and I also wasn't really a fan of the scent. I only used this cleanser once a week, as part of my Sunday skincare routine. But I found this cleanser to be a little bit too harsh for my skin.

Body Shop Seaweed Toner

I think I'm currently using up my third bottle of this toner, and this is another fabulous product from the Body Shop if you have oily/ combination skin. I've found this to be a very effective toner, as it does the job without stripping the skin of any of its natural oils.

Lancome Energie de Vie Overnight Moisturiser

This has got to be one of my favourite products from the Lancome Energie de Vie range. I actually tried a sample of this mask when this range first released a few years ago, and I found it to be extremely effective as an overnight mask. I used this on alternate evenings as part of my evening skincare routine, and I loved using it that way. It has a very lightweight consistency, and it sinks into the skin straight away. It also has a lovely, fresh scent to it; which is a really nice touch. 

Bulgarian Yogurt Skin Yogurt & Amaranth Body Lotion & Shower Gel

My friend got a gift set from Bulgarian Yogurt Skin for Christmas last year, and these are just two of the products that I have used up from that gift set. The body lotion had a thick consistency, while still be able to absorb into the skin fairly quickly. The body lotion left my skin feeling hydrated while also smelling really nice. The shower gel was also really nice to use, and it also had the same scent as the body lotion. Also, this range is aimed people who have sensitive skin. 

Dr Botanicals Tropical Invigorating Cream

This is a lovely product from Dr Botanicals, and I used this as a moisturiser as part of my morning skincare routine. It has a lovely tropical scent, and it sinks into straight away.

Dr Botanicals Cocoa Noir Time Reverse Facial Serum

I really enjoyed this serum from Dr Botanicals, as it has a lovely lightweight consistency that sinks into the skin straight away. It also smells like coconuts. I used this as the part of my serum/ oil segment in my evening skincare routine.

Dr Botanicals Advanced Eye Nutrition Serum

I had never used an eye serum before, but the best way I found to use this was to use as the first layer before applying my eye cream as it wasn't hydrating enough for my under eye area. It's a good eye serum, but I would recommend that you layer with another eye cream to get it to be more effective.

Valmont Hydra3 Regenetic Moisturiser (Sample)

Valmont skincare is a brand that I hadn't even heard of until I got given a couple of samples from them a few months ago. My skin felt slightly more hydrated after using this moisturiser, but I wouldn't go out of my way to purchase it.

B&BW Tahitian Paradise Pocketbac

I really like the Pocketbacs from B&BW, and I really enjoyed using the Tahitian Paradise scent. Sadly, the Tahitian Paradise was a limited edition fragrance a few years ago.

Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo (Deluxe Sample)

I've always been interested in the haircare side of Kiehl's. The Amino Acid range is aimed at giving the hair and scalp a deep cleanse, while also being hydrating. I also found that I only needed to use a small amount every time I shampooed my hair. It also has a really nice fragrance.

Kiehl's Super Multi-Corrective Cream (Deluxe Sample)

I completely forgot that I had this moisturiser sample within my box of samples, as this was a product from Kiehl's that I was interested in trying. I found this moisturiser to be very hydrating because when I woke up the following day my skin felt more supple and hydrated.

Caudalie Vinosouce S.O.S Serum (Deluxe Sample)

I've used this product from Caudalie for years as part of morning skincare routine, so its always nice to receive this as a sample.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Moisturiser (Sample)

As much as love Caudalie as a brand, this was one product from them that really wasn't for me. The consistency is just a little too thick, so it took a while for it to sink into the skin; and I also found that I had to use quite a bit to get to to spread evenly over my face.

Champagne Shower Gel

I received a gift set of shower gels a couple of years ago for Christmas, and it a few quirky fragrances. This is a the last shower gel from that gift set, and it was champagne inspired.

Superdrug Shower Gels in Orange & Satsuma, Pineapple & Papaya, & Coconut

I received a selection of Superdrug shower gels for Christmas, and I have impressed with the shower gels from Superdrug, as they have a lovely thick consistency and foam up really well. The scents that I have used have also been lovely, and I think my favourite from what I have used up so far has got to be the Orange & Satsuma shower gel. These are great if your looking for a shower gel and your on a budget.

M&S Ragdale Hall Pamper Body Spray (Deluxe Sample)

The pamper body spray from the M&S Ragdale Hall has a lovely refreshing scent, and this is also infused with grapefruit oil. The size of this sample was handy for me to throw into my handbag.

Thats the end of this empties post, and there's quite a bit of new stuff that I have managed to try and sample. 

Concert Review: Spectacular Classics

Hi everyone,

I had the pleasure of watching the Manchester Concert Orchestra performing 'Spectacular Classics' at the Bridgewater Hall on the 27th April 2019 at 7.30pm.

Manchester Concert Orchestra
John Andrews - Conductor
David Butt Philip - Tenor
Morgan Pearse - Baritone

Act One

The Force of Destiny Overture - Verdi
Liberty Bell March - Sousa
Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana - Mascagni
The Blue Danube Waltz - Strauss II
"Che gelida manina" from La Boheme - Puccini
"Largo al factotum" from The Barber of Saville - Rossini
Bolero - Ravel
Pomp & Circumstance March No 1 - Elgar

Act Two

Finlandia - Sibelius
"Au fond du temple saint" from The Pearl Fishers - Bizet
Farandole from L'Arlesienne Suite No 2 - Bizet
Nimrod from Enigma Variations - Elgar
Jerusalem - Perry
Rule, Britannia - Arne
"Nessun Dorma" from Turandot - Puccini
1812 Overture - Tchaikovsky

The 'Spectacular Classics' concert had a Last Night of the Proms feeling too it, and this was a really enjoyable evening out as I hadn't seen the Manchester Concert Orchestra perform in about ten years. The set contained some really well known and loved classical pieces, as well as a few pieces that I hadn't come across before.

My favourite pieces from the first act was the 'Liberty Bell March', which is mostly well known as the theme to the Monty Python's Flying Circus; and this piece had a lovely element of fun. I also really listening to 'The Blue Danube' as its such a well known waltz. "Largo al factotum" is also a well known fun classical piece of music, and you may have heard of it being referred to as "Figaro"; and Elgar's 'Pomp and Circumstance March No 1' is known for forming part of the finale of the Last Night of the Proms.

My favourite pieces from the second act was Nimrod from the Enigma Variations; as this is one piece that I don't think I've ever heard in its entirety before; and it was lovely to listen to being performed live. 'Rule, Britannia' was awesome to watch being performed live with Morgan and the Manchester Concert Orchestra as it is so well known, plus this piece also got an unexpected encore. "Nessun dorma" was also another fantastic piece that I enjoyed watching being performed. Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture was a brilliant finale with the canon effects.

We also got treated to an unexpected encore that featured the 'Can-Can' and also 'Land of Hope and Glory'.

'Spectacular Classics' was a fabulous evening out, which I thoroughly enjoyed as I really love listening to classical music; and it featured quite a lot of well loved classical pieces that everyone knows. Also we had laser effects running throughout the entire concert, as well as the canon and firework finale which took place during the 1812 Overture.

Blast from the Past - Jo Malone Make Up

Hi everyone,

Before I even get into this post I would first like to thank Michael James from www.jomalonefan.co.uk for helping to source the information which I needed for this post. If your really interested in the Jo Malone brand, then go and check out Michael's blog.

I was 16 when I made my first purchase from Jo Malone, and sadly everything that I purchased from my first visit has now sadly been discontinued. I still have two out of the three products that I purchased in my collection; and one of these just happens to be one of my favourite ever Jo Malone fragrances.

 

My first ever Jo Malone purchase consisted of :-

- Verbenas of Provence Cologne 30ml

- Finishing Powder

- Black Mascara

I purchased my Jo Malone products from the Jo Malone concession inside Harvey Nichols, Manchester as at the time it was the only place that was local to me that stocked Jo Malone. I actually can't fault their service, as I was made to feel extra special as they offered to do me a complimentary facial and makeover on the spot; which I happily accepted. It's one of the best facials I've ever had, and I walked out feeling extremely relaxed.

Jo Malone Make Up Descriptions

Finishing Fluid

This light solution is designed to calm & protect the skin, yet reveal a flawless complexion. With eucalyptus, known for its soothing, helping to balance the skin. It's suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

Finishing Powder

This sheer, translucent powder handles shine & creates a natural matte finish with the subtlest sheen. With particles that reflect the light away from the skin, the tiniest amount swept over the face will help to lift & brighten the complexion.

Black Mascara

In just the right brilliant black, this conditioning mascara defines, separates & lengthens for a precisely groomed appearance.

Finishing Blush

This versatile blush adds the subtlest dash of crimson rose to creamy white & sun kissed cheeks.

Lip Gloss

This full-bodied gloss moisturises & conditions. The classic, clear gloss is perfect for office wear & the cream gloss is just right for the evening.

Verbenas of Provence Scent Description

Inspired by the citrus-scented ambiance of a restaurant in Hong Kong. This fresh, clean fragrance is blended from the leaves of vervain citronelle with hints of flowers and spice. Mix with Nectarine Blossom & Honey for a fresh, day scent or Black Vetyver Cafe for a warm, evening scent

(Source: Jo Malone Product Catalogue 2007)

My Favourite Skincare Products

Hi everyone,

I would like to share with you some of favourite skincare products that I come across within the past year or so.

Vichy Purete Thermal Fresh Cleansing Gel

I use the Vichy Purete Fresh Cleansing Gel as part of my Sunday evening skincare routine, and I use this for my second cleanse. This is a really effective cleanser, and it also leaves my skin feeling a little bit more hydrated. I also really like how fresh this smells, which was on things I missed about this cleanser when I didn't have it as part of my routine.

REN Wake Up Wonderful Night Time Facial

The REN Wake Up Wonderful Night Time Facial is a serum that has quite a few benefits. Its helps to give the pores a deep clean by using AHAs, evens out textures, supports natural cell turnover, and it also helps to boost the skins natural radiance. I only use this product once a week, as I find it quite potent; and I do notice a difference in my skin when I wake up the following morning.

Alpha H Liquid Gold

This is my preferred glycolic acid toner, as I have found it to be the most effective. Alpha H Liquid Gold contains 5% glycolic acid, as well as alcohol. Even though it does contain alcohol I have found it not to be stripping to the skin, but to me it also makes the glycolic acid to be more effective.

Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate

I have been using the Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate for around 18 months, as part of my morning skincare routine. This is the first step I do once I have finished applying my toner. It sinks into the skin straight away die to its lightweight consistency. It also gives my skin a little boost of radiance, as well as shot of hydration.

Dr Botanicals Japanese Orange Revive & Firm Facial Serum

I use the Dr Botanicals Japanese Orange Revive & Firm facial serum on alternate evenings due to this containing a mild, but natural form of retinol. It also contains a natural form of Vitamin C. This is lovely, lightweight facial oil that sinks into the skin straight away; and it also has a lovely orange fragrance to it.

Dr Botanicals Moroccan Rose Superfood Facial Oil

The Dr Botanicals Moroccan Rose Superfood Facial Oil is my all time favourite rose facial oil that I have ever used. It smells absolutely devine and luxurious, and it also has a lovely lightweight consistency; which means that it sinks into the skin straight away. I use the Dr Botanicals Moroccan Rose Superfood facial oil as my final step of my evening skincare routine before I apply my moisturiser.

Lancome Energie de Vie Overnight Sleeping Mask

This has got to be one of all time favourite products that Lancome has to offer. I love how hydrating the Enegie de Vie overnight sleeping mask is, and when I wake up the following morning my skin feels plumped and hydrated. I use this on alternate evenings, and you only need a small amount as a little bit goes a long way.

Kiehl's Creamy Avocado Eye Treatment

The Kiehl's Avocado Eye Treatment is my current evening eye cream, and I'm loving how it makes my under eyes feel more hydrated than usual. Also a little bit goes a long way, but there's a technique that you have to do before you apply the eye cream to your eye area. You take a small amount of eye cream (size of a grain of rice) with your fourth finger, and then you rub the eye cream in between your fourth fingers. This will make the become more lightweight, and turn into a liquid; and it will make it easier to apply and you will also get the hydrating properties that the eye cream is known for.

Dr Botanicals Tropical Invigorating Cream Duo Moisturiser

I used this as part of my morning skincare routine, as it provides just the right amount of hydration to the skin. This is a medium consistency, but it does sink into the skin more or less straight away. It also has a lovely natural fragrance to it.

Kiehl's Rosa Arctica Lightweight Cream

This is a lovely moisturiser from Kiehl's, and it sinks into the straight away. It does have a lightweight formula, but with a slightly thicker consistency. I use this moisturiser as part of my morning skincare routine. I really enjoy using this moisturiser as it adds a boost of radiance to my complexion, and I also really enjoy the scent of this moisturiser.

Review: Lancome Renergie Yeux Multi Lift Eye Cream

Hi everyone,

I have been using the Lancome Renergie Yeux Multi Lift eye cream as part of my morning skincare routine for the past few months; and I would like to share my thoughts with you.

I had first heard about this eye cream sometime last year while I was watching one of Beauty with Brittany videos on Youtube, and this really sounded like an eye cream that I would enjoy using.

The Lancome Renergie Yeux Multi Lift eye cream has a subtle pink hue to it, and this helps to give the under eyes just a small amount of brightness. It also has a lightweight consistency that sinks into the skin straight away.

Claims

- A fresh anti-aging and lifting cream for the eye contour

- Reveal your golden glow

- In 4 weeks, the skin around the eyes feel firmer and tightened as if lifted. Wrinkles, eye bags and dark circles appear reduced. The eye contour looks more radiant and younger.

This is a lovely eye cream too use for during the day, and you only need to use a very small amount at any one time as a little bit goes a very way. But the one thing I have found with this eye cream is that it has a floral fragrance to it, which I wasn't expecting when I had first purchased it. If you are sensitive to fragrance in products or have very sensitive eyes then just bare in mind that this does have a noticeable fragrance to it.

A Blast from the Past - Jo Malone Skincare

Hi everyone,

Before I even get into this post properly I would first like to thank Michael James for sourcing the information that I needed to create this blog post. Michael is part of the same Jo Malone Facebook group that I am, plus he also runs a blog which is dedicated to all things Jo Malone. Michael's blog is www.jomalonefan.co.uk.

I was 16 when I made my first ever purchase from Jo Malone, and this was at the Jo Malone concession inside Harvey Nichols in Manchester. But, when I also made that purchase I was given a complimentary facial and make over using products from the now discontinued skincare and make up lines.

Complimentary Facial - Products Used
- Eucalyptus & Mint Frothing Cleansing Cream
- Rosemary & Lavender Skin Tonic (this was placed in warm water and used to remove the cleansing cream)
- Followed by the White Nectarine & Honey Face Mask
- Protein Serum
- Ginseng Day Moisturising Cream
- Green Tea & Honey Eye Cream

I can still remember the scents of some of the products that were used during this facial. The product scents I remember were the Rosemary & Lavender Skin Tonic, Eucalyptus & Mint Frothing Cleansing Cream, & also the White Nectarine & Honey Face Mask. All of the products within this skincare range smelt 'good enough to eat'.

Product Descriptions

Eucalyptus & Mint Frothing Face Cream
Is an invigorating soap free cleanser with a minty scent & a luxurious lather. Eucalyptus, known for its purifying properties, helps to balance the skin & wash a way impurities. This is a rich cleanser is perfect for any skin & won't strip it of essential oils.

Avocado Cleansing Milk
Is a gentle cleanser that effortlessly removes all traces of make up & impurities. Avocado, a naturally rich emollient infuses moisture into the skin. Used in combination with the massage brush, it gives skin a thorough cleanse & a fresh glow.

Rosemary & Lavender Skin Tonic
Is a gentle toner that helps to purify & nurture the skin. Extracts of rosemary work to balance sensitivities while the relaxing scent of lavender creates a soothing effect. A calming renewal for the skin.

Jojoba Day Moisturiser
Is a light lotion that absorbs quickly & easily into the skin. Jojoba, one of nature's finest moisturisers, helps to protect the skin against the effects of dehydration. This skin softening lotion won't clog pores.

Ginseng Day Moisturising Cream
Is a versatile moisturiser with a rich texture. An active ginseng complex helps to boost the skin's natural resources to keep it looking & feeling well hydrated. A moisture lift for anytime of the day.

Orange & Geranium Night Cream
Is a rich moisturiser that works when the skin is at its most relaxed & receptive. The purifying benefits of orange & the balancing effects of geranium help to nourish & care for the skin. An ideal evening cream with a delicious scent.

White Nectarine & Honey Face Mask
Is an intense facial treatment that replenishes, restores & infuses the skin with moisture. A brilliant conditioning boost, this face mask is both truly effective & beautifully scented experience for the skin.

Green Tea & Honey Eye Cream
Is a luxurious treatment for the delicate skin around the eyes. Green tea, rich in antioxidants & vitamin C, is combined with honey to hydrate the skin & to help reduce the appearance of under eye circles. This rich cream brings a feeling of calm to the eye area.

(Product description source: Jo Malone 2007 Product Magazine)