blocos – Page 42

The Doux SWEETEST THING Honey Moisture Mask Review

May 16, 2025 - 7:30 pm | May 16, 2025 HAIR CONDITIONERS, HAIR PRODUCT REVIEWS, NATURAL HAIR, REVIEW INDEX

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The Doux seems to be the latest natural hair brand making the girlies talk! I had heard of the brand in a few videos I watched but when my hair stylist recommended some products I decided to take the plunge and try the Honey Moisture hair mask. I wanted to try more honey hair masks as the TGIN one worked so well for my hair.

The Doux describes this as the sweetest mask you’ll ever know. Hydrates stressed hair beyond the cuticle layer to improve texture, reduce friction, and bring that ol’ elasticity and strength back. Restores moisture balance and hydration to the scalp.

Main ingredients: Barbadensis: For strong, poppin’ curls Honey: Super-charged to fizzle frizz out Aloe: Protects + hydrates stressed out strands

Experience

I’ve used this mask in 3 consecutive wash days to get a feel of it and I do not like it! For a moisture hair mask, it doesn’t leave my hair soft and conditioned as other moisture masks have left my hair. Comparing this to the other honey mask I love, the TGIN honey miracle, this one falls very short!

I noticed the Doux mask has 2 forms of protein in it, Keratin Amino Acids, Silk Amino Acids and I wonder if that’s why I don’t like it. It doesn’t leave my hair stiff at all just not softened. I’ve also noticed some breakage in my crown area- the same breakage I noticed when I was using the Briogeo don’t despair, repair mask which is protein rich very frequently. I think the mask too much protein for my low porosity fine hair and I was using it on my wash days every 2 weeks for at least 3 wash days!

Verdict

I think this is more of a strengthening mask for me than a moisture mask – I’ve noticed this too late though! I’ve stopped using it now and will be using it for strengthening instead. Looking back at my wash days( I keep a wash day log!), I saw that I had used the ApHogee 2 min keratin treatment prior to using the Doux honey moisture and I used it for the next 3 wash days after the Aphogee!! I think the keratin & amino acids in the Doux with the ApHogee keratin was too much protein and I think this combo is responsible for the breakage I saw! sigh

I’ve now switched to the Amika hydro rush hair mask and its a winner! I’m also going back to my TGIN Honey miracle mask as that product left my hair feeling beautiful! I think I will curate a list of protein free moisture hair masks because its really frustrating getting a hair mask that says its moisturizing only have it for more protein in it- I have fine low to medium porosity hair and protein overload can happen very quickly for me. Honestly keeping my hair log is so helpful because I am able to look at the products I’m using to see what is causing issues. If you can do this, try it for a few months- I’m sure you will find it helpful.

The Doux is now available in Boots to check out

Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark Review

May 16, 2025 - 10:58 am | May 16, 2025 Skin

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Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark Review

*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

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Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark Review

Vita Liberata have had a whole new rebrand and have introduced an ultra dark tanning mousse that I have been absolutely loving. Here’s the low down on the Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark.

What is Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan?

Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark

Light as air tan mousse
Features moisture locking properties
Helps maintain skin’s hydration
Uses a DHA+ formulation for a deeper, more long lasting result
Designed to fade like a natural tan
Has an instant guide colour for perfect application

Key Ingredients

Pentavitin – for long lasting hydration

Hyaluronic acid – to hydrate

Vitamin E – for antioxidant protection

Cucumber extract – to refresh and soothe the skin

Elderberry – to brighten the skin

Green tea – to soothe and moisturise the skin

Vitamin C – to stimulate collagen production

My Review of Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know that I love a good tan, especially when it delivers instant colour that lasts, without drying out my skin. So when I was introduced to the the newly rebranded Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark, I was desperate to try it and I’m so glad I did.

The Packaging

I really like the new look. It’s sleek, modern, and feels really premium. I’m a sucker for a luxe-looking bottle on my shelf, and this new rebrand just hits the mark. It definitely feels more elevated.

Application – effortless and even

The mousse formula is absolutely gorgeous to apply. It glides on like a dream with a mitt, and it blends out beautifully. No stickiness, no patchiness, just smooth, even colour straight away. You get that lovely instant tint (which I always appreciate) so you can see exactly where you’re applying it, and it gives a beautiful bronzy glow right from the get-go.

Colour guide vs final result: a rare match!

Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark applied

One of my biggest frustrations with some tans is when the colour guide looks amazing, but after you wash it off, you’re left with barely anything. Not the case here! Once rinsed, the colour stays really close to what you see initially, just a touch more natural and slightly softened. It’s still a rich, ultra-dark bronze that I absolutely love. Because I am very pale naturally, especially on my body as I rarely go in the sun, I always opt for the darkest option.

I actually chatted with Vita Liberata’s founder Alyson Hogg about this, and she agrees this is a good approach. She said that when it comes to choosing your tan colour, it’s very different than when you are choosing say, a foundation. With a foundation you are looking for a match and with tan you are looking to change your colour.

If you already have some colour, you won’t need such a dark colour to get a good result. But if you’re super white like me, you will need all the help you can get! The Ultra Dark works really well for my pale skin, and gets me where I want to be.

Hydrating and kind to skin

Another thing I really noticed is how hydrating this formula is. It doesn’t dry my skin out at all, which is so important for me, especially on my legs and arms, where tans can sometimes cling or crack.

Longevity & fade

In terms of wear, I get a solid 6-7 days out of this tan, and it fades so evenly. No weird patches, no flaking, it just gradually softens to a lighter bronze. Honestly, it’s one of the most even-fading tans I’ve tried, which makes topping it up an absolute breeze.

I actually love to top up fake tan with a gradual tan, and for this, you can’t beat the Gatineau one. For more info on that read, Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan Review.

Final thoughts

I’m so impressed with the Vita Liberata rebrand, and The Mousse Ultra Dark really delivers on all fronts. It’s easy to apply, gives a stunning instant and lasting colour, doesn’t dry out my skin, and fades like a dream. If you’re after a deep, bronzed tan that’s true to the colour guide and low-maintenance to wear, this one is definitely worth checking out.

Where to buy it

The Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark is £29 and available via the links below. If you find it’s sold out, keep checking back as a restock is due soon.

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Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50 Review

May 15, 2025 - 7:57 am | May 15, 2025 Skin

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Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50 Review

As a big fan of Clarins’ suncare, I was very excited to try out their SPF50 stick. Here’s what you need to know about Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50.

What is Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50?

Clarins have had a sun care stick for a while, but I believe this is an updated version, as it has new packaging:

Includes Solar Protect Complex
Guarantees broad-spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays & blue light
Invisible, dry-touch finish
Transparent finish
Enriched with skincare ingredients for anti-wrinkle, anti-dark spot & antioxidant action
Can be applied over make-up without moving it
Suitable for localised areas on the face and/or body invludig the eye area
Ideal for all skin tones
Pocket size format
Quick and easy application

Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50 packaging

Key Ingredients

Argan oil – helps to soften, nourish and protect the skin.

Organic cocoa extract – boosts hydration and collagen production

Vitamin E – delivers antioxidant protection

Aloe vera extract – moisturises and soothes

My Review of Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50

Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50 look on the skin

I don’t often use an SPF product in a stick format but I have to say, I have really fallen for this one. It is so easy to use, it feels super comfortable and is really very hydrating on the skin.

I love Clarins as a brand, and really rate their sun care, and this stick is no disappointment. It feels like you are swiping on a super hydrating serum and gives the skin an instant smooth and glassy look that I absolutely love. As its name suggests, other than a skin flattering sheeny finish, it is completely invisible.

Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50 invisible finish

I can use it in the eye area without making my eyes sensitive or stingy which I really appreciate, and the shape of the stick makes it easy to apply into the various crevices of the face.

Because I like how it makes my skin look and feel with its glowy not greasy finish, it is perfect for no makeup days.

See how applies and it looks without makeup in this video:

I like how it works under makeup too. It creates a lovely smooth base and my foundation sits happily on top and still sets down nicely.

All my makeup layers over it well and importantly, if you go gently, you can layer it over makeup too. I find I can swipe this on over a full face of makeup with minimal disturbance, and I maybe just need to smooth out a couple of little areas to make it look perfect again.

If you don’t like the idea of using a stick like this over makeup, check out my review of the Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Setting Mist SPF50. I love that one.

All in all, this is an absolutely excellent SPF50 product and I highly recommend it. Because it’s so neat, compact and won’t ever spill, it’s the perfect product to shove in your handbag for top ups on the go.

Where to buy it

The Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50 is £25 and available via the links below:

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Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream Review

May 13, 2025 - 6:32 am | May 13, 2025 Skin

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Kiehl's Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream Review

As as huge fan of Kiehl’s Creme de Corps, I was extremely keen to test out the new Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream?

Hydrating body cream with Squalane and Pro-Ceramides
Formulated to absorb into skin quickly (within 3 seconds)
Delivers long-lasting hydration for up to three days, even through showering
Protect skin against extreme environments
Suitable for all skin types and ideal for sensitive skin

Key Ingredients

GLACIAL GLYCOPROTEIN – helps to deeply hydrate and maintain skin’s moisture balance

PRO-CERAMIDES – help to reinforce skin’s barrier strength

SQUALANE – helps replenish skin’s barrier and keep it soft, supple and moisturised

How To Use It

This is best applied straight after showering and whenever your skin needs extra hydration. You can dress immediately as it is fast absorbing.

My Review

I don’t know about you, but once I hit my late 40s and into my 50s, my skin on my body started asking for a lot more attention! Especially as I am a serial fake tan user. My skin can get pretty dry which really affects its appearance. Now that summer is on its way, I want to get my skin into top to toe peak condition.

When Kiehl’s launched the Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream, I was immediately intrigued. Anything with mega moisture in the name has my full attention!

I’ve been testing it out and here’s how I got on…

Texture and feel

Kiehl's Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream Texture — Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream Texture

The texture is GORGEOUS. It is rich but not greasy, creamy but not too thick. It melts into the skin beautifully and doesn’t sit on top like some heavier body butters. I can get dressed immediately after applying it, which is a big bonus for me as I am always in a rush.

How does it perform?

I’ve been using it daily, mostly after my morning shower (I find that’s the best time to really lock in hydration). I find this makes my skin nice and smooth looking, and more even-toned, and after a few daily applications there’s way less of that crepey look that seems to pop up when my skin is dry and dehydrated. The hydration is really long lasting.

Is it good for mature skin?

Yes, 100% yes. If you’re in your 40s, 50s or beyond and finding that your body skin just isn’t bouncing back like it used to, this cream is a dream. It feeds the skin without overloading it, and because there’s no fragrance, it’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive areas like décolletage.

Final thoughts

This is definitely one of those “quiet luxury” products. It doesn’t shout, but it really does deliver. The packaging is clean, the texture is beautiful, and the hydration is long-lasting.

It’s also fragrance-free, which I know many of you will absolutely love, especially if you have sensitive skin or want to layer with your favourite perfume.

If you are looking for something richer and thicker with a bigger focus on anti-ageing, check out my Joonbyrd Daydreamer Body Serum and Sunday Sofa Body Butter Review. And if you need something super light and lightning fast, read E45 Daily Care Hydrating Lotion Spray Review.

Where to buy it

Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream is £43 for 250ml and it is available now via the links below:

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Kosas Cloud Set Mist Review

May 12, 2025 - 5:00 am | May 12, 2025 face, makeup

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I have really been enjoying all the recent launches from Kosas so I was very happy to try out their brand new mist. Here’s the lowdown on the Kosas Cloud Set Mist.

What is Kosas Cloud Set Mist?

Refreshing, skin-caring setting mist
Works to hydrate, smooth, and lock makeup in place for 12 hours
Alcohol free and non-comedogenic
Ultra-fine, airy spray
Promises to improve the look of your makeup
Designed to keep the skin looking fresh all day
Contains 99.5% naturally derived ingredients
Oil-free and fragrance-free formula
Designed to never be sticky or tight feeling
Clinically proven to hydrate, improve skin texture and reduce appearance of pores over time
Suitable for all skin types including sensitive
Non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic
Get 20% off at Sephora* with code REALLYREESPH

Key Ingredients

Agave Tequilana Leaf + Fruit Extracts – to reduce the appearance of lines and texture with a second skin filter effect

Saccharide Isomerate – works to reduce shine while boosting moisture

Trehalose – supports hydration

How to use it

You use this as you would any setting mist. Be sure to shake well before use, and after you have finished applying your makeup, hold 8-10 inches from face and mist over entire face. Kosas suggest no more than 3 times, as a little goes a long way.

You can reapply throughout the day, as desired.

My Review

The Kosas Cloud Set Mist is a setting spray that’s been getting its fair share of attention lately. I’ve been testing it out and I think it’s really good. What I most like is that it’s not one of those typical makeup-locking, ultra-mattifying formula. And that, I think, is part of its quiet charm.

First Impressions

First things first, the packaging is beautifully minimal. The mister is wonderfully fine, with a smooth, even spray that settles on the skin. There are no heavy droplets and no sudden spritzes. Cloud is a good way to describe the delivery of this mist. You get the kind of application that makes you feel like you’re treating your skin rather than attacking it.

How it looks

Now, the effect. This isn’t a mist that transforms your makeup and honestly, I appreciate that. It doesn’t mattify. It doesn’t add a glass-skin sheen. It doesn’t blur or change the texture you’ve so carefully built. What it does do is take the edge off powder, bring a little life back into the skin, and make everything feel more cohesive and comfortable. If you’ve taken the time to get your base looking just how you like it, Kosas Cloud Set Mist won’t interfere. It lets your finish shine through.

Skincare benefits

There’s also a genuinely refreshing quality to it, thanks to the inclusion of lots of skincare ingredients. I think this helps to lightly hydrate the skin. Also, it’s important to note that, unlike most setting sprays, it is alcohol free, which will be great if you have sensitive skin.

How does it perform?

It melds everything together. It’s great at removing that telltale powdery edge. It adds a little something back into the skin, a lived-in softness, without messing with the overall finish.

I think it does really help to lock my makeup in place, although I tend to opt for more longwearing formulas anyway, so it’s hard to measure exactly how effective it is.

What I like is that it leaves your makeup exactly as you intended it. If you’ve spent time perfecting a soft matte base, carefully buffed in your bronzer, and placed your highlight just so, you don’t want a mist that suddenly turns you into a disco ball. Nor do you want something that drags your foundation toward flat, cakey territory. Cloud Set doesn’t do either. I think it enhances by not interfering.

Final Thoughts

If what you want is a mist that keeps your makeup feeling fresh without changing the look you’ve worked hard to achieve, Kosas Cloud Set Mist hits the mark

I find it especially good later on in the day when my skin’s feeling a little fatigued or when I want to tone down a slightly too matte situation that sometimes happens after powdering. It gives your face a reset without undoing your work.

If you are looking for a mist with more of a dewy finish PLUS SPF50, you need to read, Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Setting Mist Sunscreen SPF 50 Review.

Where to buy it

The Kosas Cloud Set Mist is £32 and available now via the links below, use REALLYREESPH for 20% off at Sephora:

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Author Archives: blocos

The Doux SWEETEST THING Honey Moisture Mask Review

Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark Review

Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan Ultra Dark Review

What is Vita Liberata The Mousse Tinted Lasting Tan?