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Texture Release on Fine 4c Natural hair

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hihi everyone, I hope all is well! It’s now more than 1 month after my texture release and so now is a great time to share my thoughts on it! I have played around with my hair and had a few wash days too and I have a lot of thoughts to share!

My hair- I have very fine, low to medium density 4c hair. I’ve been natural for 13 years. This texture release would be the 1st time in 13 years I have ever done a chemical service and also the first time I have straightened my hair, done a silk press.

I got my TR done at Maison Style, full review here. One of the main reasons why I did the TR was that I wanted to try something different with my hair this year because I wanted to wear it out more. I wanted to be a heat trained/straight natural so that I can do that easily. After getting the TR and talking with Andree, I have decided not to go down this route. Why?

Because I have very fine hair, my hair is more prone to heat damage. I actually didn’t know this until Andree said at my app. Fine hair has fewer layers compared to coarse hair making it more fragile. I think I have some heat damage in the top area of my hair after the service because its straight and limp as compared to the rest of my hair. And this is with lots of heat protectant and a good routine prior to the TR. Whilst I don’t really wear my hair in its curly state, I still want healthier hair so becoming a straight natural and having lots of silk presses will cause a lot of damage even with a good moisture/protein balance routine.

I have low to medium density hair and this is disguised very well when my hair is in its natural coily state. It feels fuller and thicker. I prefer thicker hair so I was very surprised to see my hair on the lower density side after it was straightened. To be totally honest I did not like that. There’s nothing wrong with having this density, density is genetic however because I prefer a fuller head, I just didn’t like it. I made some clip ins to add extra body but I don’t want to rely on this every time I get my hair straightened. No clip ins in the pic.

My blowdried hair still appears fuller so if anything I can go down the route of a blow dried natural instead of getting silk presses. Blow drying is not nearly as damaging as a silk press in terms of heat damage. Still I would have to be careful on my very fine hair

In terms of the condition of my hair, my hair feels so soft and the curls are more elongated. I don’t have as much shrinkage as before so it makes washing my hair just a little bit quicker. I do like the TR for this.

If you have fine low density 4c hair just manage your expectations of a TR, especially if you haven’t seen your hair silky straight before. I say this because almost 98% of the videos I watched were on 4c coarse high density hair so of course my image of what I thought my hair would look like was a bit skewed especially since I had also never seen my hair straight after I went natural. What about my relaxed days? Well there was only ever 1 time I was able to get my hair proper silky straight because this person actually knew what they were doing lol, all other times my hair was still slightly puffy and honestly my hair was more in braids than relaxed and out. My silky straight relaxed hair was also on the thinner side infact my silky straight natural hair is actually a bit ‘thicker’.

Will I get a texture release again? No. Because the main reason why I wanted one was to aid my straight natural journey and since my hair cant tolerate that much heat frequently, there’s no need for it. Whilst I’m loving the relaxed curl pattern and the condition of my hair, its just not enough to justify the service. Will I change my mind later? who knows

Will I recommend it? YES. If you have coarse high density hair, you will probably love it and benefit from it more

I don’t regret getting the TR, I’m so happy I’m finally trying something different with my hair and taking much better care of it! I will have my 1 month wash day post TR up soon! I’m ending my hair challenge of no braids or wigs as I’m planning to get braids soon for the summer as an actual protective style lol. I’ve had my hair out for the last 6 months and need a mini break. Over the last 6 months too, I have worn wigs for a total of 1 week spread over many days. I’m really proud of myself for it! I don’t remember a time I’ve had my own hair out for this long! and taking proper care of it too.

I really hope you find this post helpful. If you are thinking of getting a TR, make sure you read up on it as much as possible whilst watching as many videos as you can. Try and watch vids of people with the same density & texture as yours, it will help you manage expectations. If you have hair like mine, there isnt that many videos for us fortunately lol so hopefully my posts on TR help

take care

Hydrating toners for Combination Skin

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Hihi everyone, I hope all is well. Today we are talking toners! If you are looking for a new toner to try, I hope you find this post helpful

Toners/waters/essences are they really necessary? Afterall, if serums are most important and you have cleansed properly, do you really need this step? The answer is NO. Toners, essences etc are completely optional but its a great way to layer your skincare and build hydration for all skin types

There’s so many types of toners available but in this post I’m talking about hydrating toners only. There are no acids in here( another post). These types of toners can be paired with any ingredients and great for all skintypes and concerns. These are my fav hydrating toners I have used and love

Garnier Rose Toner This is a great budget friendly toner from Boots and did you know its an exact dupe for the Pixi Rose Tonic? Ive used both, love both and they both work the same. They are very gentle and soothing on the skin and doesn’t dry it out.

Artistry Skin Nutrition™ Hydrating Smoothing Toner this was a surprising toner for me. my SIL bought this for me to try and I really liked it. It’s packed with hydrating, soothing ingredients and even some fermented ingredients. It helps to hydrate and repair the skin and also pairs well with other actives.

CosRX Full Propolis Toner– I got this off Stylevana because I was looking to try a range of k beauty toners. This is a really popular one and I can see why its loved. Its a nice hydrating toner and its ‘thick’ enough to dispense into the palms and pat into the skin. I had no irritation with it

Fresh Antioxdiant Black Tea Essence – this baby right here is worth the pounds! She’s not cheap that’s why I also have a k-beauty dupe for you! The Kaine kombu balancing ampoule toner is very similar to the Fresh one! Its not as hydrating nor does it leave my skin as glowy BUT I really like it too. both of these toners are packed with antioxidants, hydrating and repair ingredients to help heal & nourish the skin

Next I will do a round up of my fav acid based toners! I used to LOVE these and tried a lot of them!

If you think you need a little bit more hydration in your routine, try adding a hydrating toner layer before your serum, day & night and see if that helps! I have normal to combo skin which turns more oily in the warm weather and using a hydrating toner is a good way of ensuring my skin stays hydrated through the day/night. These can also be layered on top of acid based toners( acid first) and its a great way to ease yourself into acid toners too actually

I hope this helps and catch you later in my next post!

adidos!

Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan Review & 30% Off Discount Code |AD

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

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30% discount on 400ml using code

REESENTME

Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan Review

Let me introduce you to one of my best discoveries of 2024, the Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan. As someone who is whiter than my windowsills, with fantasies of being a bronzed goddess, self-tan is an essential part of my life. Here’s why I’m obsessed with Gatineau’s Golden Glow.

What is Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan?

Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan
Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan

Gatineau Golden Glow is probably the easiest way out there to get a natural looking tan:

  • Luxurious, fast-absorbing formula for face and body
  • Provides immediate hydration
  • Natural looking tan develops gradually
  • Buildable formula
  • Effortless application
  • Elegant cream-gel texture that melts into the skin
  • Leaves skin looking and feeling super soft and hydrated
  • Buildable formula for the level of tan you desire
  • Features a unique fragrance with notes of Pear, Mandarin, Sandalwood, and Musk
  • Available with 30% off with code REESENTME

Key Ingredients

Vitamin E – antioxidant that protects skin from environmental aggressors and free radical damage

DHA – derived from sugar cane, and reacts naturally with the amino acids in the skin to give a golden tan

Coconut Oil – maintains the skin barrier and hydrates and smooths the skin

USE CODE REESENTME FOR 30% OFF 400ML

About Gatineau

Gatineau is such a beautiful French skincare brand that started in Paris 90 years ago by a visionary beauty therapist Madame Jeanne Gatineau. She worked with dermatologists and biochemists to create a line of professional-quality skincare with powerful formulations combining natural ingredients with cutting-edge biotechnology.

It was one of the first luxury skincare brands I ever tried, and I’ll never forget the first time I used their game-changing Gommage which was like nothing I had ever tried. It is still an icon in the beauty industry years later. Gatineau was in fact the first brand to create an exfoliator. If you haven’t tried the Radiance Enhancing Gommage, you must!

The Importance of Skincare in Gradual Tanning

The Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan skincare formula completely eradicates the risk of mistakes because it is so easy to apply and blend over the skin. The formula delivers a completely streak-free finish, and the skincare ingredients keep the skin hydrated so that the tan never goes patchy.

My Review of Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan

Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan 400ml pump bottle
Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan 400ml pump bottle

Like I said at the top, this is one of my best beauty discoveries of 2024, if not longer. If you love a bronzy glow, I think you will absolutely love this.

I am a self-confessed self-tan addict and I have been tanning for decades. I started when I was at university and just never stopped. For me it quickly became a year-round essential element of my beauty routine, and I am genuinely a happier person with a fresh layer of tan. In fact, I often say if self-tan was no longer available, I’d be a lot less happy!

I have been fake tanning for years, but I still make mistakes. Not with this! I haven’t had any hand or feet disasters since I’ve been using it. It literally provides the most flawless and seamless blend.

The Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan is an absolute joy to use because it is so easy. You simply use it like you use your body lotion. I put it on as soon as I get out of the shower, and I use it top to bottom covering my whole body in under a couple of minutes. I apply it to my hands and feet, knees, elbows (everywhere!) just like my moisturiser and it sinks in super-fast, and I can get dressed pretty much straight away.

I simply make sure that I wash my palms and in between my fingers with hand soap and I’m all set. The tan starts to develop after a few hours and if I use it at night, I wake up with a gorgeous golden glow. When I use it in the morning, the glow gradually intensifies as the day goes on. It’s such a good feeling.

When I start from scratch (totally scrubbed off and white) after 2 or 3 days I am where I want to be. Although, to be completely transparent, I haven’t really had to start from scratch since I have been using this because it fades so nicely. As a serial fake tanner, it really is all about the fade for me.

Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan texture
Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan texture

In terms of the texture, I have to say, it is dreamy. It has a light yet super hydrating gel-cream consistency that melts into the skin with almost a water-infusion feel. It’s blends over the skin so effortlessly.

And it smells so good! It has the most beautiful soft fragrance, and it never has the DHA turning moment (aka the biscuit) that you get with pretty much all self-tans.

Also, the colour never transfers (I tested this on plain white pyjamas!), so you don’t need to worry about stained bed sheets or clothes.

Before and After Photos

Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan Before Photo
Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan Before Photo
Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan After Photo
Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan After Photo

Gatineau Golden Glow Demo Video

INSERT REEL HERE.

How to Use Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan

STEP 1 – Apply one pump per limb using smooth circular motions and rub in thoroughly
STEP 2 – Lightly smooth over dry areas such as hands, elbows, knees and feet 
STEP 3 – Wash hands after use particularly between fingers
STEP 4 – Wait for skin to be touch dry before dressing

The colour develops over 3-4 hours. You can use 1-3 applications to achieve your desired glow, then top up when you like.

The Benefits of Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan

  • Easy to apply and blend
  • No mitts or gloves required
  • Hydrates and smooths the skin
  • Natural, buildable colour
  • No transfer to sheets or clothing
  • Fades evenly with no patchiness
  • No unpleasant smell
  • Available in a value 400ml bottle with pump

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Golden Glow be used by first-time tanners?

This is the perfect product for first time tanners because it is as near to being foolproof as you can imagine. The colour builds gradually, so you never end up with a result that is darker than you want.

Is it safe to use Golden Glow daily?

Yes. You can use this product as much as you like, and you can keep applying it until you reach the level of tan you want. Once you have your ideal tan, you can simply top up whenever you need to.

How does the cream compare to other tanning products?

This is so much easier to use than many tanning products and you don’t need any equipment like mitts or gloves. It is super hydrating and doesn’t dry out the skin like many tans. Plus, you can get the level of tan you wish depending on how often you apply. And no fake tan smell!

How long does it take to see results from Gatineau Golden Glow?

The tan starts to develop in about three hours. You can build up the tan with daily application until you achieve the glow you want.

Are there any side effects of using this tan?

I love this tan because it is one of the few tanning products that doesn’t dry out my skin, which the main downside of self-tanning. This is super hydrating and smoothing.

Is Golden Glow suitable for all skin types?

Yes, this formula is suitable for all skin types.

Is Gatineau Eco Friendly?

The Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan bottle is fully recyclable. All of Gatineau’s cartons are FSC certified.

Where to buy it

You can buy Gatineau Golden Glow via the link below. Remember to use code REESENTME to claim 30% off:

Also, if you are looking for a concealer and skincare hybrid, I can’t recommend Gatineau’s one enough. For more information on that, read: Gatineau Perfection Ultime Miracle Eye Contour Cream Review.

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AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum Review

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hihi everyone, I hope all is well. Today I have a full review on the Axis Y Dark spot serum I have been using for the last 2 months

This serum is described as rich in several brighthening ingredients (like niacinamide and sea bucktorn) and will help to improve the overall complexion of the skin. As the packaging comes with a pump dispenser, the serum is easily to dose and therefore also easy to use. On top of niacinamide, you will find here plant-derived squalane. It makes skin soft and supple without greasiness or stickiness. Rice which is rich in over 100 types of antioxidants like vitamin E and ferulic acid and omega fatty acids will fight free radicals and bring anti-ageing properties. The serum contains also calendula, a wound healing plant extract containing flavanoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities. Finally, sea bucktorn, rich in vitamin C, omega 3, 6 and 9 and many antioxidants, calms down inflammation, boosts hydration, and is known for its soothing, protective abilities. Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Experience

I was been using this serum from the 6/4 to the 8/6 in my nightly routine. It is a lightweight watery serum that sinks into the skin with ease. I have no irritation with it. It has a mild scent but nothing offensive, its almost herbal but doesn’t linger too longer. It doesn’t pill with other products and it pairs well with other active like acids and retinols. It doesn’t leave a sticky residue

I find this serum hydrating which was surprising to me because Niacinamide usually dries out my skin, usually at 10% conc so I can only use it for a few days at a time. I think this works well for my skin because its at 5% and paired with other hydrating and soothing ingredients. For this I like it however for the main reason why I got it, I don’t find it effective

This serum claims to be an effective dark spot correcting serum which is my main reason for purchasing. I am very prone to and suffer from hyperpigmentation. Did this serum fade any dark spots? NO. it did absolutely nothing to them! I have a patch on my cheek that remained the same through out! Did it leave my skin glowing? Somewhat, my overall complexion was healthier but I cant say its due to this serum only but a combo of this and the Ramsou 100% bifida. You can read my full review here

Verdict

If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, this is NOT the serum you would get to tackle it, if you were very serious about fading it. To be totally honest I got this because of its popularity and whilst I’m not 100% disappointed with it, I really wont recommend it for hyperpigmentation. I really like its hydrating & soothing properties, and I like its packed with antioxidants and does really well with other actives. I also like the 5% niacinamide and the fact that I can use it regularly without drying me out.

Will I repurchase this again, solely to treat pigmentation-NO. I do however have a mini travel size version that I will use on trips because of the hydration and soothing properties

I purchased mine from Stylevana but if you know their shipping takes SO LONG! I don’t recommend you get it from there. its only £3 more on Amazon and you can get it on prime so it comes literally the next day. Its really frustrating shopping on SV because even though items say shipped within 24hrs, it can actually take up to 10 days to ship then another 10-15 days to get the items! sigh. I made another order on 24th May, as of 14June its not here!

Thats all folks! I started using Suprafade this month and I really cant wait to share those results with you!

Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser Review

 
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currently 50% of at Aurelia London with code AURELIA 50

Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser Review

I had been planning to write my review of the new Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser because I’m quite a fan. Then I suddenly noticed that Aurelia currently have 50% off most things on the site, so I thought I better get a wriggle on! Here’s what you need to know.

What is Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser?

Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser 
Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser 

This SPF is a super multitasker as it is packed with anti-ageing ingredients and also doubles as a moisturiser:

  • Powerful anti-ageing moisturiser with SPF50
  • Lightweight, hydrating formula
  • Uses skin-calming postbiotics derived from probiotic cultures
  • Includes niacinamide and hyaluronic acid
  • Works to strengthen and restore your skin barrier
  • Minimises fine lines and wrinkles
  • Brightens and helps to prevent dark spots and pigmentation
  • Suitable for all skin tones, no white cast
  • Currently available HERE* at 50% off with code AURELIA50

Key Ingredients

POSTBIOTIC AND FERMENT LYSATE DERIVED FROM PROBIOTIC CULTURES – to strengthen skin’s immune system and protect the skin barrier, and reduce skin irritation and inflammation for a balanced skin microbiome

GLYCERIN -to hydrate and improve barrier function by drawing moisture into the outer layers of skin

NIACINAMIDE (VITAMIN B3) – to help strengthen the skin’s barrier, brighten dull skin and reduce the appearence of enlarged pores

HYALURONIC ACID (SODIUM HYALURONATE) – low molecular weight humectant that draws moisture in for deep hydration, to help skin retain moisture for glowing-looking skin

My Review

Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser Review
Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser Review

I knew I was really going to like this sunscreen as it contains Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate which are my favourite hydrating ingredients. I always include these in my REESON makeup products*, which is my own brand*.

This is a chemical sunscreen packed with active ingredients which protect and nourish the skin at the same time. It is super lightweight and blends and absorbs into the skin really easily.

I have been skipping moisturiser and just use it over my serum. If you wanted a really quick routine who could use this straight on to cleansed skin, as it has some lovely ingredients in there.

Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser texture
Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser texture

I love the texture of this SPF product. It is light and silky, and as you massage it into the skin, it has a featherlight, almost water-serum texture that feels super calming and nourishing on the skin.

Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser on the skin
Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser on the skin

It gives a gorgeous glow and apart from that, it is instantly invisible on the skin, taking absolutely no work to become indetectable. If you have oily skin, you will definitely want to skip moisturiser, and if you’re dry, you may want to layer it on top of moisturiser. But have a play, it depends on the type of finish you want. It could even be enough if you have dry skin, because it’s such an effective moisturiser, even though it is lightweight.

The Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser sits really nicely under my makeup. I like to wait 10 or 15 minutes for my SPF to settle into my skin before I apply makeup. I feel like this allows for the most even coverage of protection.

I think if you love a glow, this will be absolute perfection for you. It has such a pretty finish and is so soothing and comfortable on the skin. I think it’s great.

If you want something with more of a satin finish, check out Vichy Mineral 89 72H Moisture Boosting Daily Fluid SPF50+ Review.

Where to buy it

The Aurelia London Hydrate & Protect Anti-Ageing SPF50 Moisturiser is £65 although you can currently get 50% with code AURELIA50 at Aurelia London, and save £13 right now at LOOKFANTASTIC via the links below:

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