Category Archives: Skin

Gallinée Vinegar Mask Review

 
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Gallinee Vinegar Mask Review

Microbiome experts Gallinée recently introduced a mask version of their much loved Face Vinegar. Here’s the lowdown on the new Gallinée Vinegar Mask.

What is Gallinée Vinegar Mask?

What is Gallinee Vinegar Mask?
What is Gallinée Vinegar Mask?

This is a gentle exfoliating mask formulated with AHAs and PHAs:

  • 6% AHA PHA gentle exfoliating complex
  • Uses hibiscus-infused cider vinegar
  • Includes soothing prebiotics
  • Designed to brighten and refine the skin’s texture
  • Rinse off formula
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Hydrates and supports the skin barrier

Key Ingredients

Hibiscus Apple Cider Vinegar – postbiotic known for its gentle micro-exfoliation, brightening, and soothing properties

6% AHA PHA Complex – gently exfoliates while respecting the skin barrier, enhancing smoothness and radiance

Pre & Post Biotics – help to nourish the skin’s good bacteria, supporting the microbiome and promoting an even skin tone

I absolutely love Gallinée’s Face Vinegar Toner (review here) so I was very excited to try out this new mask. I have used it a couple of times now and it’s such a nice little product to have in my kit, especially when I want something that gives a nice glow in a short amount of time, and I don’t want to risk anything too strong that might not play well with my other skincare.

The Gallinée Face Vinegar Mask is a prebiotic-rich treatment that works to gently exfoliate the skin while supporting the microbiome. Formulated with postbiotics and natural actives like hibiscus vinegar and prebiotic lactic acid, it delivers a light resurfacing effect without the sting or disruption you might get from stronger acid-based treatments.

This is ideal for anyone with sensitive, stressed, or sun-exposed skin, which is why I think it will be especially useful when travelling or spending extended time outdoors.

Quick and Easy to Use: Perfect for Busy Mornings or Travel

One of the standout features of this product is just how quick and easy it is to use. You simply apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin, leave it on for 5 minutes, and rinse. That’s it.

This makes it the perfect time-saver for busy mornings, or when you’re travelling and your skincare routine needs to be both minimal and effective.

Convenient Packaging: Travel-Friendly and Fuss-Free

Gallinee Vinegar Mask packaging
Gallinee Vinegar Mask packaging

The Gallinée Vinegar Mask comes in a sleek, mess-free tube that fits perfectly into a carry-on or even a handbag. No bulky jars or fiddly spatulas, just a simple, hygienic squeeze tube that makes application clean and easy.

It’s the kind of product that will be great if you go away, especially for warm-weather holidays where skin can act up from heat.

Ideal for Sensitive Skin

Summer skin can be tricky. UV exposure, changes in humidity, and layers of SPF can leave skin feeling congested, but also more prone to irritation. That’s where the Gallinée Vinegar Mask really shines.

Gallinee Vinegar Mask texture
Gallinée Vinegar Mask texture

It offers gentle exfoliation without compromising your skin barrier, thanks to its microbiome-friendly ingredients. It doesn’t leave my skin feeling stripped or sensitised so if you’re prone to sensitivity, redness, or flare-ups, especially in the heat, this is a brilliant option for keeping skin clear and comfortable without overdoing it.

Final Thoughts: Is the Gallinée Vinegar Mask Worth It?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for a gentle exfoliating treatment that’s quick to use, easy to travel with, and perfect for sensitive skin, the Gallinée Vinegar Mask is a brilliant choice. It’s effective without being harsh, and the microbiome-supporting formula gives it a point of difference that your skin will thank you for, especially when it’s feeling a little fragile.

FAQs about Gallinée Vinegar Mask

Is the Gallinée Vinegar Mask suitable for all skin types?

Yes, but it’s particularly great for sensitive or reactive skin thanks to its microbiome-friendly ingredients.

How often should I use it?

1–2 times per week is ideal but be careful not to overdo it if you are using other products with exfoliating ingredients.

Can I use it with active treatments like retinol or vitamin C?

Yes, but it’s best to alternate usage to avoid over-exfoliating. Think of it as a gentle reset between more intensive treatments.

Where to buy it

The Gallinée Vinegar Mask is £26 for 50ml and available now via the links below:

RéVive Melting Cleanser Makeup Removing Wash Review

 
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RéVive Melting Cleanser Makeup Removing Wash Review

When it comes to cleansing, I always gravitate toward textures that feel luxurious yet effective. I want something that respects the skin barrier while doing the heavy lifting. I’ve recently been testing the RéVive Melting Cleanser Makeup Removing Wash, and it’s a beautiful addition to my routine. Here’s my full review, including texture, performance, packaging, and my overall verdict.

What is the RéVive Melting Cleanser?

RéVive Melting Cleanser
RéVive Melting Cleanser

The RéVive Melting Cleanser is a balm-to-milk makeup remover designed to dissolve makeup, impurities, SPF, and pollution from the skin. It promises a gentle yet thorough cleanse, with skin-conditioning benefits and minimal residue:

  • Innovative gel-oil cleanser
  • Formulated to melt away makeup, sunscreen, pollutants, dirt, and impurities from the skin
  • No tugging or pulling necessary
  • Powered by our signature biomimetic Bio-Renewal Peptide, plus Calendula and botanical oils
  • Designed to blended together to leave skin feeling hydrated, smooth, soft
  • Doesn’t leave a greasy residue or a tight, stripped feeling

Key Ingredients

Bio-Renewal Peptide – RéVive’s signature biomimetic peptide prompts skin to act like it did when it was younger, addressing the first signs of aging such as fine lines, dullness, and dehydration

Calendula – Antioxidant known for skin-soothing properties.

Botanical Oils – a blend of Macadamia Nut, Jojoba, and Olive Oils formulated to dissolve makeup, SPF, dirt, pollutants, and impurities from the skin while helping support the skin barrier, leaving it soft and hydrated.

How to use it

Apply a generous amount to dry skin with dry hands. Gently massage over the face and eyes. Add water to emulsify while continuing to work into skin. Rinse thoroughly with the cleansing round provided or a flannel.

My Review

My Review of RéVive Melting Cleanser
My Review of RéVive Melting Cleanser

Texture and Formula

Let’s start with the texture, because this is where the product really shines. The balm is light, silky, and oil-rich, but without feeling greasy or heavy. It has a beautiful balmy-oil hybrid texture that melts effortlessly between your fingertips and glides over the skin like a dream.

RéVive Melting Cleanser texture
RéVive Melting Cleanser texture

It’s incredibly pleasant to massage in. There’s no need to rub or tug; it gets to work straight away, breaking down long-wear foundation, waterproof mascara, and sunscreen in seconds.

Performance & Rinsing

When water is added, the balm emulsifies into a delicate milk which is super light, not at all sticky. It works to whisk away every trace of makeup and grime and leaves the skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed.

RéVive Melting Cleanser with resusable cotton round
RéVive Melting Cleanser with resusable cotton round

Whether you use the reusable pad that comes with it or your go-to flannel, the cleanser rinses away without any oily residue, which can be a common gripe with balm cleansers. My skin is left perfectly balanced, not stripped or tight.

Packaging: Clean and Convenient

A real bonus here is the hygienic tube packaging. Unlike traditional cleansing balms that come in tubs, there’s no need to dip your fingers into a pot. It’s clean, easy to use, and ideal for keeping things sanitary.

The packaging also makes this an excellent travel companion. Less mess, less fuss, and it looks chic in any bathroom setup.

Who Is It For?

  • All skin types, including sensitive
  • Great for SPF and makeup wearers
  • Ideal for those who prefer a luxurious, balm-style first cleanse

Final Thoughts

If you love a balm cleanser but hate the faff of dipping your fingers into a jar, the RéVive Melting Cleanser is a game-changer. With its silky oil texture, gentle yet effective cleansing power, and elegant, hygienic packaging, this is a standout for anyone serious about skincare. It’s a joy to use and delivers on every front. It’s a luxurious but practical cleanser that earns its place in any routine.

FAQs about RéVive Melting Cleanser

Is RéVive Melting Cleanser suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. The formula is gentle, fragrance-light, and designed to cleanse without stripping, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.

Can it remove waterproof makeup?

Absolutely. It breaks down waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, and even high-factor SPF with ease.

Do I need a second cleanse after using this?

If you’re using it as a first cleanse, you might still follow with a water-based or gentle foaming cleanser, but it’s perfectly effective as a solo cleanse if you’re not wearing heavy makeup.

Is it safe to use around the eyes?

Yes. The silky balm is gentle enough for eye makeup removal, and I experienced no stinging or irritation.

Does it leave an oily residue?

No. It emulsifies beautifully and rinses clean either with the included pad or a standard flannel.

Where to buy it

The RéVive Melting Cleanser is £61 for 100ml and available now via the link below:

If you are still searching for a new cleanser, check out my Best Cleansers for All Skin Types and Budgets blog post.

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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40 Review

 
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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40 Review

Skin

29 May 2025 (Updated: 28 May 2025)

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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40 Review

2025 is certainly the year of the new superlight SPF skincare products, and I have really been enjoying this one. Here’s the lowdown on the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40.

What is Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40?

What is Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense?
What is Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense?

A high protection daily moisturising fluid designed to defend, hydrate and smooth the skin:

  • Protects skin from pollution, blue light, and UVA/UVB rays
  • Formulated to not leave a white cast
  • Lightweight, barely-there texture
  • Designed to instantly sink in and set to work
  • Promises to leave skin feeling soft, plumped and comfortable
  • Can be used over makeup
  • Offers long-lasting hydration
  • Gives skin a radiant and supple look
  • Non-comedogenic, vegan formula
  • Gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive

Key Ingredients

Botanical Blend of rice and soybean oil – helps protect against the effects of blue light and pollution

Sugar beet extract – to strengthen skin’s moisture barrier

Antioxidants – to soothe and defend against pollution

How to use it

You need to shake this up well and apply 3 fingers of product to the face and neck. If this seems like a lot, apply it in stages. In sinks in really nicely so you shouldn’t have any issues.

You can also apply this over makeup, which I haven’t yet tried as I tend to like a mist for this. Read, Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Setting Mist Sunscreen SPF 50 Review for one of my fave mists.

For reapplication over makeup, Elizabeth Arden suggest using a sponge to lightly blot it on to the skin. However, I can’t see how you’d make sure you are applying the correct amount using this method, so I personally wouldn’t follow that advice.

Before and After Photos

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense before photo
Before
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense after photo
After Photo
My review of Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense?
My review of Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense?

If you’re a fan of radiant, well-hydrated skin with reliable sun protection, you’re going to want to hear all about the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40. I’ve been giving it a little test and it’s a total delight. Think glow without grease, hydration without heaviness.

First Impressions: Lightweight, Glowy & Comfortable

From the first application, the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Fluid feels like a hydrating emulsion product. It has a lovely lightweight texture, almost like a water-based lotion, that melts into the skin beautifully. No heavy residue, no stickiness, and certainly no white cast.

It feels immediately comforting and moisturising and if you’re someone who finds SPF formulas either too thick or too drying, this could be your perfect match.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Texture
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Texture

The Glow Factor: Dewy but Not Greasy

What I love most about this is the finish. It gives the skin such a fresh, plump, hydrated look with a dewy glow, but importantly, it doesn’t make you look greasy. That’s a fine line and Elizabeth Arden has balanced it just right here.

It layers beautifully under makeup too. I’ve worn it under foundation and tinted moisturisers, and it doesn’t pill or slide.

Skin Benefits Beyond SPF

This isn’t just your average sunscreen. It’s packed with hydrating and nourishing ingredients that genuinely make your skin feel better throughout the day. Even after a few hours of wear, my skin still feels moisturised and not at all dry or tight, like some SPFs can leave you feeling by the afternoon.

Packaging: Chic, Minimal, and Convenient

The packaging is spot on. It is sleek, travel-friendly, and fuss-free. It comes in a compact tube with a secure cap, which makes it perfect for popping in your handbag or travel bag. And because it’s a fluid, it’s easy to control how much product you dispense.

SPF 40 vs SPF 50. What’s the Real Difference?

Now let’s talk SPF numbers, because I know a lot of us automatically reach for SPF 50 and wonder if 40 is “enough.”

Here’s the breakdown:

  • SPF 40 blocks about 97.5% of UVB rays.
  • SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays.

That’s only a 0.5% difference in UVB protection. For everyday urban exposure, SPF 40 is absolutely sufficient, especially when the formula is this good and when you’re reapplying as needed. It’s all about using enough product and reapplying consistently.

So yes, SPF 40 is a high level of protection and more than adequate for daily wear, particularly if you’re not spending hours in direct sun.

Final Thoughts: A Daily SPF That Feels Like Skincare

The Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40 is an absolute pleasure to use. It’s one of those SPFs that you’ll want to apply, which is half the battle when it comes to consistent sun protection.

If you’re after something that feels like skincare, delivers real hydration, makes your skin glow, and still gives you high SPF protection, this could be a new daily favourite.

Where to buy it

The Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Daily Defense Nourishing Fluid SPF 40 is £32 for 50ml. It’s currently sold out on the EA site but available now via the links below:

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Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Review

 
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kopari bright as day sheer mineral sunscreen review 2

Having fallen head over heels for this brand’s SPF50 setting mist, I was very excited to try out more! Here’s a look at the Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 with before and after photos.

What is Kopari Bright As Day?

What is Kopari Bright As Day?
What is Kopari Bright As Day?
  • Lightweight, mineral-based SPF sunscreen
  • Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
  • Delivers a sheer, radiant finish
  • Includes vitamin C and Niacinamide to brighten and refine skin texture
  • Hydrating formula
  • Designed to blend seamlessly into all skin tones
  • Enhances the skin’s glow without leaving a greasy feel
  • Uses ethically sourced mica for a soft, dewy sheen

Key Ingredients

VITAMIN C – to help brighten the appearance of skin

ASTAXANTHIN – to deliver antioxidant protection and improve skin dryness

NIACINAMIDE – to help soothe and diminish dullness for a healthier looking complexion

ETHICALLY-SOURCED MICA – for a natural, radiant finish

Before and After Photos

Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 - Before Photo
Before Photo
Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 - After Photo
Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 – After Photo

My Review

My Review of Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
My Review of Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

This is another big hit for me from Kopari, and I am not surprised because I absolutely love their SPF 50 Setting Mist. It keeps selling out here in the UK, but if you want to find out more about it, read: Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Setting Mist Sunscreen SPF 50 Review.

I love to use that one to top of my sun protection throughout the day, however, this product, the Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, is a great option to start with. This will be the last step in your skincare routine before applying makeup, and if you love a bit of glow, it could be the one for you!

The texture of this sunscreen is really lovely, and it feels like I’m applying a hydrating emulsion to my skin. It blends in really easily, feels super gentle, and doesn’t leave a sticky or tacky finish.

It gives the skin a soft touch of warmth, and a very subtly skin-perfecting glow which is really lovely for no makeup days. It also pairs really nicely with a light application of concealer for a really natural yet perfected look.

Foundation layers over it effortlessly and it gives a really nice lit from within glow, so will work well with any skin bases that you find too matte. Because it sets down really nicely, it makes a good primer for makeup.

Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Texture
Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Texture

It has a very soft shimmer in the formula that I think translates well on the skin. It gives radiance without looking glittery, and manages a smooth and soft matte yet luminous finish.

Also, it’s super easy to top up during the day because it blends in so effortlessly, and sinks in to leave a radiance without looking greasy. The one thing I’d say is that if you are very fair, it could potentially be a touch too warm, but it works really well on my light to medium skin tone.

This gets full marks from me and feels very similar to the new Ultra Violette Future Fluid (review here), although the Kopari has a more gel-serum texture whereas, the Ultra Violette is more runny and liquid. I like them both a lot!

Where to buy it

Kopari Bright As Day Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is £34 for 50ml and is available now via the links below:

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LOYA Skincare Review – First Impressions

 
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LOYA Skincare review

I was recently introduced to new Swiss wellness and longevity brand, LOYA. Their focus is on mind-body connection starting with a range of luxury skincare products with a neurocosmetic approach to reversing the negative signs of ageing. Here’s what you need to know.

What is LOYA?

What is LOYA?
What is LOYA skincare?

Although LOYA have launched with a range of skincare products, I’m told there’s much more to come in the shape of a truly holistic approach to longevity that covers hair, supplements, devices and more.

LOYA skincare takes a neurocosmetic approach. This means the formulas don’t just work on your skin’s surface, they are designed to engage with your nervous system through scent and texture, and use the skin-mind connection to encourage your brain to prep your skin for better results.

Shiseido skincare uses a similar approach with their research and innovation in neuroscience and skin science to create their ReNeura Technology. It aims to reawaken your skin’s sensors to ingredients. I really think it works.

Read Shiseido Vital Perfection Supreme Cream Review for more info on Shiseido’s approach.

The LOYA skincare collection includes:

LOYA Skincare Collection
LOYA Skincare Collection
  • Silky Soft Plumping Cream
  • Supereverse Serum
  • Supercorrect Serum
  • Resurfacing Dew Essence
  • Radiance Eye Cream
  • Healthyglow 3-in-1 Cleanser

Biotechnology Meets Neuroscience

LOYA skincare products are designed to address all aspects of ageing, including the emotional. The products include the brand’s proprietary Microbloom™-SH (a super antioxidant complex) and HappyFeelBoost™ technology that is formulated to uplift your mood.

The aromas from the products are really amazing. I especially notice it when using the Silky Soft Plumping Cream, which I think is my favourite product out of the ones I have tried so far.

LOYA Skincare First Impressions Review

LOYA Skincare packaging
LOYA Skincare packaging

Let’s start with the packaging which is just so chic. Think understated, muted tones on the actual products (so soothing and minimalist), contrasted with these bold, bright outer boxes that look give such a modern luxury vibe.

LOYA Silky Soft Plumping Cream Review
LOYA Silky Soft Plumping Cream Review

Now, on to the textures which are, quite honestly, beautiful. I’ve been playing with a couple of the products and they are super luxurious. I haven’t been able to properly test anything yet, but the star of the show for me so far is the Plumping Cream.

LOYA Silky Soft Plumping Cream texture
LOYA Silky Soft Plumping Cream texture

It is literally like silk on the skin. The texture is just heaven. It has the weightlessness of a gel moisturiser but with the cushion and glide of a super fine oil. It melts in effortlessly and leaves my skin feeling velvety but not heavy. And thanks to LOYA’s neurocosmetic approach, it smells amazing.

It contains copper tripeptide, Lipophilic Vitamin C (super stable) Ectoin and is multi-antioxidant.

LOYA Resurfacing Dew Essence
LOYA Resurfacing Dew Essence

I also really like the Resurfacing Dew Essence which is a super lightweight, treatment essence that preps, hydrates, and calms the skin while enhancing ingredient absorption. It’s a gorgeous, watery treatment step that acts as the perfect skin reset. The formula includes the copper tripeptide, ectoin, plus a blend of AHAs (lactic, glycolic, and shikimic acids) to clear pores and boost collagen production.

What really stands out with Loya is how thoughtful and multi-layered the formulas are. Each product feels beautiful to use, but there’s also serious science behind the scenes. The combination of skin-calming neuroactives, advanced hydrators, and Swiss precision makes it such a modern luxury brand one that’s about how skincare makes you feel, not just what it does.

If you’re into elevated routines, holistic skin support, and high-performance textures that feel chic and comforting, Loya is one to keep your eyes on.

Where to buy LOYA Skincare

Right now, LOYA is available exclusively via the brand’s website linked below:

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