The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm Review

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The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm Review

The Ordinary have launched a super cute lip balm and I have it here to show you. Check out The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm.

What is The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm?

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm
The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm

This new launch from Deciem is a multi-use moisturising balm designed to hydrate the lips, elbows and cuticles:

  • Designed to soften, nourish and boost moisture within the lips
  • Uses Squalane to provide immediate, long-lasting hydration and skin barrier support
  • Also features a unique blend of Amino Acids to help retain and seal in moisture
  • Softens and smooths the skin
  • Can also be used on cuticles and any areas of dryness

When does The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm launch

The Ordinary Lip Balm is set to launch on 20th June 2024.

My Review

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm packaging
The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm packaging

This is such an easy product to like because the packaging is super cute and unique, and everyone loves a good lip balm.

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm is a really light formula that’s not at all sticky or greasy. It uses a biomimetic blend of Amino Acids which means that the formula uses a blend that is identical to what is found naturally in the skin, to boost hydration over a long period of time.

The Squalane gives the texture a pleasant slip and slide, and also provides a lovely natural looking sheen to the lips. As it is a very light and non-sticky texture, I have to reapply it more often than something a bit heavier, like the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream* which is one of my lip favourites. I love to use that one at night as I can’t still feel it on my lips when I wake up in the morning.

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm texture
The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm texture

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm has a much lighter, more watery texture that’s perfect for day time use. It has a really addictive feel, so you will want to keep reapplying it. And at £8.50 for 15ml, you can pretty much go wild with it!

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm packaging
The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm packaging

I think they have been really clever with the packaging with this product, because, even if you don’t need another lip balm, you will probably want to get this because of the super cute squeezy O. shaped tube!

This is the most gimmicky packaging I think I have ever seen from The Ordinary, as they usually go for something more clinical and even medical looking, however, I think this really works.

It’s the perfect shape and size to pop into your handbag or pocket for use on the go. As I said, it’s so cute.

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm squeezy tube
The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm squeezy tube

Lip Balms are having a huge moment on social media right now, and from what I can tell, our collections are growing and growing! If you’re still looking for a lip balm, read: Best Lip Balms for Dry Lips 2024.

Also if you like something tinted, you may just love the new ones from Naturium. Read: Naturium Phyto-Glow Lip Balm Review & Swatches – New Cafe Collection 2024.

I wonder if The Ordinary will add colour in the future so that we can choose from a range of tinted lip balms. They have experience with colour from when they previously launched their foundations and concealers, so it is definitely a possibility. Let’s see.

Where to buy it

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm is £8.50 and launches on 20th June 2024 via the link below:

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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser Review

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser Review

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

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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser Review

There’s a new lightweight, skin-perfecting moisturiser from Elizabeth Arden and I have been really enjoying it. Here’s the lowdown on Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser.

What is Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay?

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay
  • Lightweight, ultra-versatile formula
  • Hydrates, brightens, controls oil, refines pores
  • Perfects and primes the skin for makeup
  • Works to visibly refine pores and promote an even-looking finish
  • Texture absorbs quickly into the skin
  • Enriched with 95% naturally derived active ingredients
  • Gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Vegan

Key Ingredients

 Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid – to hydrate and plump the look of skin

Sugarcane derived Squalane – to strengthen skin’s moisture barrier

Botanical Blurring Complex – to control excess oil and blur visible imperfections

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser Review
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser Review

If you are looking for a lovely lightweight moisturiser that packs a good punch of hydration and sits well under makeup, this is it!

I absolutely love the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour range and this one is no exception. When I first saw the packaging, I thought that the Elizabeth Arden Great 8 (the one with SPF35) had been relaunched and got very excited. However, this is a brand new launch and equally as good.

I still really want to know if Great 8 will come back though because I absolutely loved that SPF moisturiser. Maybe one day!

Anyway, back to the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay. In a nutshell, this is the perfect summer moisturiser. It has a gorgeously light yet super hydrating texture, it sinks into the skin very quickly, and just makes the complexion look smooth and subtly perfected.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay moisturiser texture
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay moisturiser texture

It’s brilliant under makeup, so will be amazing for summer nights on holiday as it controls oil nicely without any tightness. Also, it layers really well under a range of different sunscreens as it’s very light, so it’s great for day time too. Another absolute win from the Eight Hour franchise for me!

This is ideal for normal, combination and oily skins. It may not be quite enough if you have very dry skin.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay packaging
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay packaging

I love the pump packaging. It makes it really easy to use and it’s nice and sleek so fits in a travel bag easily.

Also, if you haven’t already, make sure you check out the new Eight Hour Body Lotion. Read: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Daily Hydrating Body Lotion Review.

Where to buy it

The Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Hydraplay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser is £35 and available now via the link below:

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DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum Review

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DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum Review

I have been trying out the DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum which is from the brand new and affordable skincare range created by Victoria Health. I am a big fan of it. Here’s what you need to know.

What is DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum?

DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum
DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum

DoSe by VH is a brand new collection of serums and oils that are all about improving skin health. Check out the full range here*.

The DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum:

  • Contains Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate which is a highly stable, fast-absorbing derivative of vitamin C
  • Provides antioxidant protection against oxidative damage from UV and pollutants
  • Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate serum penetrates deeper than comparable Vitamin C serums
  • Works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Stimulates collagen synthesis
  • Supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier
  • Inhibits melanin production
  • Firms and evens out tone
  • Brightens the overall complexion
  • Has a super lightweight texture
  • Non-irritating formula
  • 100% stable form of Vitamin C that won’t break down
  • Suitable for all skin types including sensitive

Key Ingredients

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate – helps tackle intrinsic and extrinsic ageing whilst brightening and boosting collagen production in the skin

Squalane – helps to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and lock in moisture to impart suppleness and flexibility to the skin

How to use it

This is a lovely serum to use. I find you only need one pump and I apply it directly on to clean skin after cleansing and before moisturiser and SPF.

My Review of DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum

DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum glass packaging
DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum glass packaging

If you love a lightweight yet super nourishing face oil, you will really enjoy this Vitamin C serum. It has a beautiful silky oil texture that is super fluid and glides over the skin effortlessly.

It feels very soothing and moisturising, and a little bit goes a long way. The formula gives the skin a beautiful instant glow and makes my complexion looks really plump and juicy.

The Squalane in the formula makes this serum really nourishing as well as brightening, and on days where my skin isn’t feeling too dry or dehydrated, it is enough on its own without moisturiser. It makes for a very quick morning routine.

DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum texture
DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum texture

I have actually been really enjoying using it under just a layer of sunscreen. In fact, the new Pai Skincare British Summer Glow SPF30* works really nicely with it, however, it layers well with a range of different sunscreen products and sits really well under makeup.

Top Tip:

If you have a foundation that has quite high coverage, or is a little too far on the matte side, you could mix in a small amount of this serum to sheer it out and add a good dose of radiance.

I find that the DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum feels really gentle on my skin which is important to note as some Vitamin Cs can feel quite aggressive on the skin. This one has actually been specifically tested for sensitive skin, so if you struggle with Vitamin C, I think this one will be a good one to try.

It is very well priced at £22 for 30ml, and as you only need a small amount, a bottle will last a good while. I love the glass packaging, and it looks simple and neat in the bathroom. It’s an excellent product.

Where to buy it

DoSe by VH C-Deep Vitamin C Serum is £22 and available via the link below:

If you are looking for a different type of serum, I have a post that rounds up many of my other favourites. Read: Best Serums for 2024 – all Skin Types & Budgets.

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Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV SPF50 Review

hihi all, I hope all is well and good with you! Summer is right on the way so I thought I will bring you a series of reviews for sunscreens! For some people summer is the season they wear SPF so I’m hoping these reviews come in handy.

Today Im talking about the Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV SPF50. This is a gifted product. This product is described as This Daily UV Fluid combines a very high protection SPF50+ (UVA, UVB & long UVA) to help prevent dark spots, with Vitamin C* known for its efficacy on boosting brightness and improving complexion. It also contains Peptides known to smooth skin and Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate with an invisible lightweight formula.

Experience

I experienced no irritation with it and it did not sting my eyes.

The texture is lightweight and watery and it sinks into the skin with ease. It does have a alcohol scent but it doesn’t linger. This is a chemical SPF

Is it invisible on dark skin? YES. this SPF is 100% on the skin as shown in my pics below

Feel on skin– upon initial application, the SPF feels hydrating and lightweight and even leaves a semi dewy finish however once fully dry its matte and I feel leaves my skin dry. What I do not like about this product is the fact that it pills when dry. Once fully dry if you touch your face it starts to pill. I don’t like it under makeup because of this. It doesn’t pair well with some primers and because it leaves my skin dry & a bit tight, I can feel that underneath my makeup

Verdict

On paper this SPF sounds so good. It has peptides, Vit c and hyaluronic acid in addition to high factor broad spectrum protection however the matte finish and pilling for me makes this unenjoyable

I wont recommend this particular SPF because Garnier have a lot of amazing SPFs that are also invisible but no pilling!

Make sure you visit my insta to see a video demo!

This SPF is £12.99 in Boots