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Dose by VH Alpha Arbutin 2% and Kojic Acid 1% Serum Review

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hey hey, you good? I hope all is well.

I have an exciting review today for you. Having hyperpigmentation means I’m always on the hunt for a treatment serum to help deal with it. There are many serums with even bigger claims and I really enjoy looking for new serums to try.

Today I will be talking about the Alpha Arbutin 2% and Kojic Acid 1% Serum from Victoria Health. Dose is Victoria’s Health own brand and their aim is to provide solutions for various skin concerns that deliver results. The Alpha Arbutin 2% and Kojic Acid 1% Serum is designed to fight to help target uneven skin tone, dark spots, age spots and post blemish marks, together with 1% Kojic Acid, a powerful antioxidant and skin brightener.

Experience

I’ve known about Victoria health for a long time, do you guys remember when the ordinary skincare first came to the UK? VH were one of the retailers to first stock the brand! I didn’t know they now had their own skincare range( I think the garden of wisdom brand was theirs too but I’m not too sure). Anyway whilst looking for a new treatment serum I found Dose and was really intrigued by the ingredients at that price point.

I used the serum for about 7 weeks in my evening routine last year with no irritation issues. I also appreciated how easy it was to add to my routine, I used it with retinol & acids with no issues. It layers well with creams and I had no issues with pilling.

The serum is a bright yellow gel textured serum with no noticeable scent and doesn’t stain the skin.

Does it deliver on claims?

My baseline picture was taken on the 28th of Sept however between that date to when I started using the serum on 2nd November I wasn’t using any other treatment serum for hyperpigmentation. I used the serum from 2nd Nov to 22nd Dec 2024

I wanted the serum to target a stubborn patch of pigmentation near my jawline and I can say it did work to lighten the intensity of the spots but not completely get rid of it which is understandable. I also felt like my skin in general looked brighter which I liked. I have ‘lighter’ dark spots on my cheeks which it didn’t get rid of however I just feel I would probably have to laser/ have a chemical peel to get rid of those as nothing has been able to completely get rid of them so far.

Verdict

I do like this serum and I was pleasantly surprised with my results. That stubborn patch of pigmentation did lighten a bit and overall my skin was left brighter. I also liked the range of skin brighteners in the serum: vit c, alpha arbutin, niacinamide & kojic acid as well as glycerin & Lactobacillus Ferment. I always try to get treatment serums with a mix of brighteners because hyperpigmentation is so difficult to treat. Alpha arbutin has never worked for my skin alone but in combo with other ingredients it seems to work.

The customer service from VH is outstanding. I emailed to ask if my serum was oxidized as I was taken aback by the bright yellow color and I got a reply straight away confirming it was ok to use! I also had no issues with ordering and shipment

Will I recommend this serum?- Yes. This is an effective hyperpigmentation serum with a range of well known ingredients that work to brighten the skin over time as well as some skin conditioning ingredients. if your pigmentation isn’t as deep/stubborn as mine then I have no doubts you will get much better results. It goes without saying, SPF is KEY when dealing with pigmentation issues and should be worn everyday. Try to avoid direct sunlight where possible. Dealing with the root cause of the issues causing pigmentation rather than pigmentation itself is the best cause of action. However, I do understand that sometimes there isn’t much that can be done in some cases. This year I focusing on treating my underlying causes and I will be sharing some of the clinic treatments I will be doing

The serum is available from Victoria Health for £18

catch you later!

Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask Review

 
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Skin

7 Feb 2025 (Updated: 9 Feb 2025)

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

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Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask Review

Everyone is talking about Collagen Masks right now, and if you love a good sheet mask moment, then the Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask is one to pop on your radar. It promises deep hydration, plumping, and that coveted glass-skin effect. I’ve given it a go, and here’s the full lowdown!

What is Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask?

What is Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask
What is Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask

This promises to be an all in one mask treatment for hydration, elasticity and the appearance of pores:

  • Contains 150,000ppm of probiotics, collagen, and hyaluronic acid
  • 3 different kinds of probiotics to strengthen the skin’s barrier and prevent skin ageing
  • Ultra-low molecular collagen maximises skin penetration and absorption
  • Refines enlarged pores
  • Improves skin elasticity instantly after application
  • Visibly smooths out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Uses oligo-hyaluronic acid believed to be superior to regular hyaluronic acid
  • Clinically tested for hydration, elasticity, and pore care
  • Skin hypoallergenic test completed

Key Ingredients

Probiotics – 3 different kinds of probiotics to strengthen skin

Collagen – ultra-low molecular collagen to refine enlarged pores, improve skin elasticity instantly after application and visibly smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Hyaluronic Acid – oligo-hyaluronic quickly hydrates the skin’s surface and penetrates deeper layers of skin for a healthy and moisturised complexion.

My Review of

Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask just applied
Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask just applied

I bought a box of these masks from Amazon when I was in the office with the girls and we were all talking about overnight masks. The idea of waking up to glass skin was irresistible.

First Impressions

I really like the packaging. You get 4 masks in the box and they are easy to use.

The material feels high-quality, and it adheres to the skin beautifully without slipping and sliding around (a pet peeve of mine!). It gives a lovely cooling sensation that feels ultra-soothing. It sits comfortably on the skin, making it a great excuse for a self-care moment.

I know people that have worn these overnight, and I have tried this twice, but I just can’t sleep the whole night with a mask on my face! The 2nd time I tried it, I did managed to keep it on until it had gone transparent, which is apparently the aim, but I ended up removing it in the middle of the night, so if there was a big glass skin moment, I missed it!

Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask after use
Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask after use

Having said that, the following morning, my skin was nice and plump and smooth. It felt moisturised, but it wasn’t all glossy and shiny like I was hoping for.

My skin the following morning after Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask
My skin the following morning after Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask

I do think it has a good effect on fine lines, but I don’t think these give the long lasting results I was hoping for. I’d say it’s a quick-fix treatment rather than a long-term skin solution.

Final Verdict

Would I use it again? Absolutely! The Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask is a fabulous skin pick-me-up, perfect for an event or when your complexion needs an immediate boost but I think this will have to be a day time treatment for me. I am going to use the last 2 masks I have at a time when I know that I have 3 or 4 hours when I can wear it, and I want to be awake for the moment I take it off!!

If you’re looking for a glass skin effect but without the wait time, I have been loving the latest launch from Medik8, Liquid Collagen Advanced MP.* You can read more about that in my Medik8 Review: My Top Picks 2025 post.

Where to buy it

The Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask is available now in the UK via the links below:

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How to Work Out Your Skin Type – The Ultimate Guide & What Products You Need

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

Knowing your skin type is absolutely key to getting the most out of your skincare routine. With so many products out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but trust me, once you know what your skin actually needs, everything gets a lot easier. So, let’s break it down!

What are the 5 main skin types?

Knowing whether your skin is oily, normal, dry, sensitive, or combination can be super helpful when it comes to choosing the right products to get the best out of your skin.

  • Normal – balanced, not too oily or dry
  • Oily – prone to shine, breakouts, larger-looking pores
  • Dry – feels tight, can look flaky, and needs extra hydration
  • Combination – mix of oily and dry, often with an oily T-zone and drier cheeks
  • Sensitive – easily irritated, prone to redness, and reacts to new products quickly

The key to understanding your skin type largely comes down the amount of natural oil, known as sebum, that your skin produces. How oily your skin is can change, however, and this can be influenced by age, hormones, genes, and even environmental and weather factors.

The other thing to note is that all skin types can be sensitive, despite the fact that it’s considered a skin type on its own. Sensitivity is a measure of how reactive your skin is.

The Watch and Wait / Bare-Faced Method

This little process is said to allow you to understand your skin type by seeing how your skin behaves after cleansing.

For a complete guide to all the different cleansers I love, read: Best Cleansers for All Skin Types and Budgets.

Best Cleanser for all Skins & Budgets
Best Cleanser for all Skins & Budgets

How to:

After cleansing, pat the skin dry and then leave your skin bare for 30 minutes without moisturisers or serums. Use nothing!

After 30 minutes, you can follow this guide:

  • Skin appears shiny all over – you most likely have oily skin
  • Skin appears flaky, rough, or tight-feeling – you likely have dry skin
  • Skin appears shiny only around your T-zone – you most likely have combination skin
  • Skin feels hydrated and doesn’t appear dry or oily anywhere – you most likely have normal skin

The blotting sheet method

If the watch and watch test doesn’t seem right for you, you can try this blotting sheet method,

How to:

Again, wash your face, pat dry and wait 30 minutes. Again, apply nothing to the skin. After the time has elapsed, press blotting sheets to your face in different places, and hold the sheets up to the light to see the oil that has transferred:

  • Sheet has soaked up a lot of oil – you most likely have oily skin
  • Sheet has soaked up little or no oil – you likely have dry skin
  • Sheet has soaked up only from your T-zone – you most likely have combination skin
  • Sheet has soaked up minimal oil from every area of your face – you most likely have normal skin.

Your Skin Type Explained

Regardless of your skin type, it is always important to ensure that your skin is hydrated and moisturised.

Best Serums for all Skin Types & Budgets
Best Serums for all Skins & Budgets

For some of my best product recommendation for serums and moisturisers, read:

  • Best Serum for all skin types and budgets
  • Best Moisturiser for all skin types and budgets
Best Moisturisers for All Skins & Budgets
Best Moisturisers for All Skins & Budgets

Oily Skin Type

Oily skin is usually caused by the overproduction of sebum from sebaceous glands, as a result of a range of different factors. This will tend to make your skin feel greasy or appear shiny and also the skin can be prone to clogged pores.

The upside is that many individuals with oily skin may potentially have less wrinkles than someone with dry skin.

Dry Skin Type

Dry skin tends to produce less sebum than other skin types. Because sebum helps to lubricate the skin and prevent moisture loss, dry skin’s are prone to finding it difficult to retain moisture which means it may appear dull, flaky, scaly or simply dehydrated. It can often feel tight and have a rough texture. If the skin gets too dry, it can become irritated or itchy, as a result of the skin barrier being compromised.

Skin dryness can also be caused by external factors like using abrasive products or exposing the skin to hot water.

Combination Skin Type

Combination skin is just that – a combination of both oily and dry skin. In this circumstance, the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) tends to be oily, and the cheeks can be more dry.

Depending on the time of year, combination skin can vary in levels of oil and dryness, and changes can also been seen as a result of hormone fluctuations or stress levels.

Normal Skin Type

This skin type doesn’t really experience any extremes of oiliness or dryness, but mainly experience comfortable and hydrated skin. These skin types or less prone to breakouts, redness or sensitivity, and generally have less visibly noticeable pores.

Sensitive Skin Type

This skin type doesn’t really come down to how much sebum your skin naturally produces. Sensitive skins are more reactive than other skin types and irritation (stinging, burning, redness) can be caused by environmental factors and certain ingredients, like fragrance. We generally believed that skin becomes sensitive as a result of a compromised skin barrier.

How To Care for Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is essential for choosing the right skincare routine. Here are some key tips to help you care for your skin effectively.

Read:

  • Best Cleansers for all skin types and budgets
  • Best Serum for all skin types and budgets
  • Best Moisturiser for all skin types and budgets

Oily Skin

While excess oil can be managed, it’s important to use lightweight, oil-free products to prevent clogged pores. A gentle foaming cleanser can help remove impurities without stripping the skin. Despite having natural oils, hydration is still crucial—opt for a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturiser to keep your skin balanced.

Dry Skin

Hydration is key for dry skin. Look for cleansers with nourishing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture. Using a rich, cream-based moisturiser immediately after cleansing helps lock in hydration and prevents dryness throughout the day.

Combination Skin

Since combination skin has both oily and dry areas, a targeted approach works best. Apply richer moisturisers to dry areas like the cheeks and use a lightweight gel-based formula on oil-prone areas like the T-zone. Blotting papers can help control excess shine throughout the day.

Normal Skin

Even if your skin isn’t overly oily or dry, maintaining hydration is still important. A balanced routine with a gentle cleanser and a moisturiser containing hydrating ingredients will help keep the skin looking and feeling its best. Opt for non-comedogenic products to minimise the risk of breakouts.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin requires extra care to avoid irritation. Using fragrance-free, gentle formulations can help reduce reactions. It’s also beneficial to identify potential triggers and make environmental adjustments to minimise exposure to irritants.

Regardless of your skin type, choosing suitable products and maintaining a consistent routine can help keep your skin healthy and radiant.

HaruHaru Morning Routine

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hey everyone, I’m back with another post! I hope everyone is doing well.

In my previous post, I spoke about my new 30 day skincare challenge with HaruHaru Wonder! They sent over a bunch of stuff for me to test out so for the next 30 days, my routines will consist mostly of their products.

Before we get into my new morning routine, a bit about my skin. I have normal to combo skin that feels a bit drier in the winter months. My main concern is hyperpigmentation and I am always on the hunt for something to treat this and to brighten my overall complexion. I also like to maintain good skin health by keeping my skin barrier intact and my skin well hydrated.

My new challenge started on the 1st of Feb and here’s my current AM routine with HaruHaru Wonder!

Cleanse with the black rice moisture 5.5 soft cleansing gel. This promises to balance the skin & leave it clean and moisturized

Tone with my fav black rice hyaluronic toner. I use the alcohol & fragrance free version.

My eye cream, vit c serum and & peptide serums are the same. I’ve been using the the DE C tango eye cream, the Sunday Riley Riley ceo glow oil and the ordinary multi peptide & HA serum

AM moisturiser is the 5% niacinamide radiance gel cream

SPF is the Moisture Airyfit Daily sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++. I’m really excited for this because you know I love a good sunscreen and I’ve tried some really nice ones from k beauty. I’m looking to see how this will compare. Of course I will be doing a sunscreen try on & demo- will it be cast free on dark skin?

So far, the products feel nice on my skin and layers very well with 0 pilling. I’m looking forward to using them more! I’m following my standard method of trying new products, start using them slowly and build to everyday use as my skin gets used to it. This helps to mitigate any purging or irritation. Ive had no issues so far!

The condition of my skin now is really good. I’m enjoying smoother skin and it has an overall healthy glow due to my previous routine. HaruHaru has some big shoes to fill!

I will talk about my new evening routine in my next post- stay tuned for that!

Happy new month!

Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax Review

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

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Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax Review

Any time I get some Sephora Collection beauty products to test, I always get the old days excitement of trips into store on rare visits to New York. I have been testing out the Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax and love it, so wanted to share it with you. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax?

Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax
Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax
  • Texturising and setting eyebrow wax
  • Clear, lightweight formula
  • For thicker and more voluminous brows
  • Tames and lifts the brow
  • Provides extreme 12-hour hold for the look of freshly brushed brows
  • Transparent, light, and flexible for a natural finish
  • Non-sticky feel
  • Features a densifying brush
  • Bristles coat each hair and deposit the perfect amount of wax for a brow lamination effect

Offers

Sephora UK Discount Code

Exclusive Sephora UK discount code for 15% off

What’s the best way to use Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax?

Sephora suggests that you start at the head of the eyebrow and finish with the tip, brushing upwards through the hairs. You can repeat until you achieve the desired laminated look.

For extra volume, first brush the eyebrows in the opposite direction to hair growth, then brush the hairs upwards. You can keep adding more formula to the brush as you go.

Before and After Photos

My brows are kind of wild at the moment, and I haven’t had a professional (or a pair of tweezers) near them in many many months, so bear this in mind. But here’s the before:

Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax - Before
Before

And here they are with the Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax applied:

Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax - After
After

My Review of Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax

Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax spoolie
Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax spoolie

So, just for context, I am really on and off with my brows. When I pay attention to them, I think it makes a real difference to my overall makeup look, but then I will suddenly forget to do anything about them for days. I then almost rediscover the joy of having groomed brows all over again the next time I remember to bother! It’s a backwards and forwards journey!

However, if you’re obsessed with getting those perfect, fluffy brows that look effortlessly groomed yet full of volume, then you’re probably always on the hunt for the next big brow product. And I think that the Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax is definitely one to consider.

Packaging & Formula

In terms of first impressions, the packaging is what you’d expect for a brow gel. It is sleek, compact, and travel-friendly, which is always good. It comes with a slim, tapered spoolie that makes application super easy. The formula itself is clear, lightweight, and non-sticky yet has grip, which is key for a natural yet structured brow look.

Application & Wear

I applied the Fluff & Fix Brow Wax to my bare brows first, brushing upwards to get that lifted, feathered effect. It is pretty weightless in feel and the brow hairs feel flexible – no crunchiness or stiffness. I found that this gel holds the shape very well. The finish is very natural looking – not too matte and it allows the natural shine of the brow hairs to show through.

Who is this for?

If you love the laminated brow look but don’t want the hassle (or expense) of a salon treatment, this is a great alternative. It works best for those with medium to full brows, as it enhances what you already have. If your brows are super sparse, you might want to pair it with a pencil or pomade for a fuller effect.

Final Thoughts

For £13.99, the Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax is a solid option for natural, fluffy brows with a flexible hold. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, budget-friendly way to get that effortless brow look, this one’s definitely worth a try!

If you’re still on the hunt for an affordable brow gel for a laminated effect, read: L’Oreal Paris Infallible Brow Lamination Review.

Where to buy it

The Sephora Collection Fluff & Fix Brow Wax is £13.99 for 6ml and it is available now via the link below:

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