RODIAL DRAGON'S BLOOD LIP MASK {REVIEW}

WoW this review is long overdue, as I've had this in my sheet mask stash,

you know that stash that I never seem to get around to using, for literally

 a year or more and to be honest it's on the edge of its expiry date.

If you read my blog regularly you will already know that I'm the worst person when it comes to using sheet masks, as I find them such a faff, yet I still continue to

 buy them with all good intentions.

I recently reviewed the

 RODIAL DRAGONS BLOOD EYE MASK 

which I loved, so I'm hoping to enjoy this Lip Mask as much.

To read my full review

I'm not sure that you can technically call this Lip Mask from RODIAL a sheet mask,

 as it only covers the skin over and around the lips.

 It is however made from the same bio-cellulose fibre as a sheet mask and is

applied over the lips and left to work its plumping, hydrating magic for 15mins

and then removed.

They claim to achieve the perfect, fuller looking pout and give an instant moisture boost, comfort and soothe the skin for smoother, younger looking lips and wouldn't that be just wonderful on my aged lined less than perfect pout.

It is a sad fact that the lips loose their fullness with age and become thinner, due to the

decline in collagen production, Hyaluronic Acid and dehydration.

Thankfully this product contains a cocktail of lip plumping ingredients:

Dragon’s blood extract: 

anti-inflammatory and soothes and protects skin from external aggressors.

Hyaluronic acid: 

provides intense hydration.

Glycerin: 

helps main skin’s outer barrier to retain moisture.

How to use:

Remove lip mask from the protective fabric sheets on each side and apply directly to cleansed lips. Leave for 15 minutes and peel away. Gently massage any residue into lips. Discard mask after use.

Cautions: 

Wash hands thoroughly before use. Do not use on eczema, broken or irritated skin. Discontinue use if you experience any redness, swelling or irritation.

This Lip Mask from RODIAL has gained the love of many a celebrity and beauty

editor globally, so there must be some merit to what it can do...

My Impressions:

This is a well saturated soft gel textured mask that's a little fiddly to apply,

aren't they all, and once on its easy to manoeuvre into the correct place.

The sachet contains ample serum to apply on its own for several

more applications.

It initially feels quite cool and soothing on the lips and over time the serum is 

absorbed leaving the mask to almost become a second skin over the lips and around 

the mouth. There is obviously no drinking, eating or talking for 15 mins.

After 15 minutes its easy to remove and then you can just massage any excess

serum into the skin.

I can't say that I noticed any immediate plumpness and it didn't make my

lips look any thicker, but I did notice that there was a deepening of my natural

lip colour.

For me the most noticeable and immediate difference was the softness

 and smoothness of my lips and with time i.e the next day, I started to think

that my usual thin upper lip had more volume and there was also a slight softening 

of the feathery lines above my top lip.

 In comparison to other one shot face or sheet masks I don't think it works out too expensive per mask, especially if you buy the better value box of 8.

Despite being a quick fix type of product, which would be great for a big night out

or a special occasion, I would definitely re-purchase, if for no other reason than

 for the great way it made my lips feel, soft, moisturised and smooth.

Let me know in the comments below if you have used either of the RODIAL

masks and what you thoughts are on either of these products... 

RODIAL 

DRAGON'S BLOOD

LIP MASK

1 mask/box of 8 masks

R

N/A in SA

£

6/36

$

7/45

SUNDAY SAMPLES

 With a recent order from Metropolitan Cosmetics I was supplied with several 

skincare samples, so this coming week I will be trying out two products from the UK

brand Zelens which is exciting as I've never tried any products from this brand before.

Zelens represents a new generation of skin care developed using breakthrough scientific research in the biological functions of the skin.

Zelens innovation is driven by founder Dr. Marko Lens' 20 years of research in skin aging, his clinical experience as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon and his deep knowledge of formulation chemistry combining active biotechnology ingredients with pure molecules derived from botanicals.

As always a sample often only allows you to feel the texture and consistency of the product along with the application and how it feels on your skin. It will not give me any real indication as to any long term effects on the skin that the product may claim.

The Zelens Youth Glow Foundation in the shade Beige will be put to the test and 
hopefully out of the 2ml sachet I should get a couple of applications.

I thoroughly enjoy experiencing new cleansers, as it's a vital part of any daily skincare routine, so I'm looking forward to trying out their Z Pure Cleansing Liquid Balm.

I will report back next Sunday as to what my initial impressions of the products were and will be in no ways a full review.

Please let me know in the comments below if you have used any products from

 Zelens, as I would love to hear...

MY TOP 3 LIP BALMS #TBT POST {MAY 2019}

I thought this would be a perfect time of the year to throw back to this blogpost that

 I wrote back in May 2019.

Many of us are suffering with dry lips right now due to the cold spell we are having

and below are 3 Lip Balms that I highly recommend and in most cases have re-purchased

several times already.

I will at some point update this list to include 5 Lip Balms,however you can be assured 

that these 3 will still appear on that list.

I hope this helps you if you are looking for a good, effective product to take you through 

Winter and beyond.

Enjoy!

*Please note that prices may have changed since the original reviews were posted*

~~~~~~

I'm never without a lip balm close at hand whether it be in my handbag, in my car,

on my bedside table or on my dressing table... I'm sure you get the picture 

I do love a good lip balm.

I have tried so so many, but I thought I would write this post to let you know which are my

 top 3 and are well worth a spend, they also happen to all be from French brands.

I could have easily made this into a Top 5, but I wanted to just focus on my 3 all time faves

 and the ones that I have permanently on hand.

Click on the PINK LINKS below to read my full reviews on each product.

(The prices on my original reviews may have changed)

LA ROCHE-POSAY 

CICAPLAST 

BARRIER REPAIRING LIP BALM

If you are needing some serious LIP repairing and protecting then just go straight in for this Lip Balm from the French brand that I recommend so ofter - LA ROCHE-POSAY.

It's a "must have" if you suffer from severe dry lips whether it be from extreme cold weather or you have an intolerance to fragrance in lip balms, this product literally 

 covers most issues and is well worth a spend.

To read my full review

CAUDALIE 

LIP CONDITIONER

This Lip Conditioner from the French brand Caudalie is a more recent discovery of mine

and offers the ease of a lipstick type lip balm, that's super easy to whip out 

and apply as often as needed.

It glides easily across the lips and contains a delicate vanilla scent and with its 

anti- oxidant properties it delivers nutrition and protection all day long. 

       To read my full review                    

NUXE

 RÊVE DE MIEL

 ULTRA-NOURISHING LIP BALM

To read my full product review

If I had to give you my absolute best lip balm ever it would be this pot of lip magic

from the French brand NUXE.

Not only is it a multi award winning product,

this best-selling lip balm with Honey and precious oils is highly concentrated in ingredients that nourish, repair, soothe and protect even the driest and most damaged lips  and this deceivingly small pot seems to go on forever, so much so, that I think the packaging may have changed.

I recently featured this product in 

MY TOP 3 "VALUE FOR MONEY" SKINCARE PRODUCTS

To read this blog post

Please let me know in the comments below if you have tried any of these 

and what your thoughts are and also let me know if there are any other lip balms 

that I must try, but remember I've tried many...

Here is a quick link to all my Lip Balm reviews 

AVENE HYDRANCE AQUA-GEL {REVIEW}

Several years ago the French brand Avène arrived in South Africa and has become

everyones' favourite, affordable skincare range, regardless of whether you 

have a sensitive skin or not.

Over the years I have used so many of their products and to date only one has

disappointed.Click on the Pink Link if you would like to read all my previous

Avène reviews

Just to recap on the brand:

Avène Dermatological Laboratories offer a range of treatments specially developed for sensitive skin, and recommended by dermatologists. Avène Thermal Spring Water, with a unique biological and mineral heritage, whose efficacy has been demonstrated in more than 150 scientific studies, is at the heart of all their products. This remarkable water is renowned for its soothing, anti-irritant and softening properties.

Recently launched the

Avène Hydrance AQUA-GEL

is all-in-one hydrating skin care solution, inspired by Asian skincare innovation,
formulated in Japan and made in France.

It can be used as a day cream, a sleeping mask and around the eye contour. 

The Hydrance range targets dehydrated/sensitive skins and is a range that my skin 
enjoys, especially the Hydrance OPTIMALE Hydrating Serum and I've lost count of how many, 
I have both used and recommended to followers and friends, over the years.

My hubby is currently using the serum and he's a new fan.

The AQUA-GEL offers the dehydrated and sensitive skin:

24H HYDRATION*
Cohederm™ complex restores the skin's water resevoirs, boosts radiance 
and restores suppleness.

ANTI-FATIGUE AND ANTI-OXIDANT
Dextran Sulfate & Pre-tocopheryl work together to decongest the skin 
while protecting it from the harmful effect of free radicals.

SOOTHES
A high concentration of Avène Thermal Spring Water (75%) offers intense
 soothing and softening benefits.

Some immediate observations when you first apply

the Aqua Gel:

1. Smells divinely aqua fresh and clean. 

2. It feels cooling on application

3. The texture melts into your skin.

4. Completely and quickly absorbs.

5. Leaves no sticky or greasy layer on the skin

Being a multi-tasking hydrating product, that can be used by all skin types

 I have been extensively testing this product over the past few weeks on my

 normal/dry/mature skin.

As a daily moisturiser I found this product to not be enough for my skin, especially

 now in Winter. However it maybe a product I'll reach for more in 

Durbans extremely hot humid Summer months. 

As a moisturiser this product would be perfect for anyone with a

sensitive or compromised skin, dehydrated skin and it's also ideal for those looking 

for a lightweight, fast and easy application, non greasy, no fuss, morning product 

that can also be applied around the eye area.

Combination/oily skins would no doubt adore this formula.

I did layer with my Hydrance serum, applying the serum before applying the 

Hydrance AQUA-GEL and that duo felt more comfortable for me.

I found the AQUA-GEL it to be a perfect soothing and calming product applied 

post exfoliation.

Applied in a thick layer overnight as a sleeping mask was my preferred

way of application and it was convenient that one product could be used

on the face, neck and around the eyes. 

As a mask it's gentle enough to use several times during the week.

I used this product often as an eye treatment as occasionally I wanted a rest

 from the active anti-ageing eye products that I normally use and this provided

 a neutral cooling, soothing alternative.

This new product from Avène will no doubt be hugely popular, as the formula will

please many, including men, but for me, as a day treatment it was lacking.

Where I did thoroughly enjoy the AQUA-GEL was as an overnight mask 

and eye treatment.

This AQUA-GEL as an ALL-IN ONE product is effective, affordable and easily

 available in Clicks & Dischem and is one that I would highly recommend if

you suffer from a dehydrated/sensitive skin, if you're looking for the convenience 

of one product "does it all" or if you are looking to introduce skincare 

 into your busy lifestyle for the first time or like me, you're just looking for a calming,

soothing, hydrating product alternative in your skincare line-up.

AVENE

HYDRANCE

AQUA-GEL

50ml

R

349

£

20

$

36

After recently reviewing and falling in love with the

 LUMENE NORDIC HYDRA AERATING GEL MASK

to read my full review

The Hydrance AQUA-GEL sounded very similar and I my expectations were high

and whilst this product is very similar, on several counts, to the LUMENE Mask 

that I love so much, the LUMENE NORDIC HYDRA AERATING GEL MASK is

"next level" in terms of hydration and offers that much needed moisturisation.

QUICKIE PRODUCT REVIEWS {JULY 2020}

I have 4 QPR'S to give you feedback on this month, two can't be helped as they're 

COVID 19 related, one is an addition to a product I already love and the other

is a beauty tool that I have my doubts about and one of these products receives 

a 10/10 score...

1.

Brand : L'Occitane

Product : Verbena Clean Hands Gel

Size : 65ml

Price : R145

Sadly L'Occitane have discontinued my favourite Clean Hands Gel of all time,

 the Lavender Clean Hands Gel in the tube.

The Verbena Clean Hands Gel, is a new addition to the range, which just happens to be 

 another of my "Fave" L'Occitane fragrances and if you're a lover of all things Verbena like me, then this product will not disappoint, as it has a strong hit of Verbena that lasts.

This convenient flip top container houses a 60% hydro alcoholic hand sanitiser with

the typical fresh lemony scent of Verbena, that leaves no stickiness or resides behind

 and its an ideal size to carry around.

Verdict : 10/10

~~~~~~ 

2.

Brand : L'Occitane

Product : Vanilla Bouquet Hand Cream

Size : 30ml

Price : R150

L'Occitane are without doubt the experts when it comes to Hand Creams and this

Vanilla one is no exception.Containing 20% Shea Butter it ensures that even the driest

of hands are left feeling protected, nourished, softened, yet non greasy.

L'Occitane hand creams are a perfect option for men.

Hand Creams have become a daily application for me and I'm enjoying the process.

Whilst L'Occitane seem to have an endless variety of fragranced hand creams on offer

I find the Vanilla Bouquet to have a rather sweet and synthetic fragrance

which doesn't make sense, as its natural brand and it wouldn't be the fragrance

 I would choose again.

Verdict : 7/10

~~~~~~ 

3.

Brand : Real Techniques

Product : Dual-ended Expert Sponge

Price : R139.95

I saw this "new look" Real Techniques foundation/blush/highlighter make-up sponge

 in Dischem some weeks ago and picked one up as my two, that I have currently on the go

are looking very well used and tired.

Having used the Real Techniques brand for several years I not 100% convinced that

this dual tone one was made of the same material, as previous ones and somehow it just 

doesn't apply or blend in the same way.

I only use a sponge to apply foundation and I must admit I often use my good old hands to

apply, so I'll see how this one goes, but I sense that my hands will become the best 

and only foundation application tools I need.

Verdict : 6/10

~~~~~~ 

4.

Brand : Natur Vital

Product : Hair S.O.S Fortifying Conditioner (Damaged Hair)

Price : R99.95

I am really enjoying this range of hair products and I have included the same shampoo

in a previous QPR post. Click here

It also gained a well deserved place on my Top 6 Hair & Body Products 2019

The conditioner compliments the shampoo well and  gives my hair a well conditioned look

 and feel without leaving my hair feeling overloaded with oils that ultimately give hair

 that weighed down heavy feeling.

Exclusively available from Dischem and they have an extensive hair care range catering

for all hair types and conditions and I highly advise you to check them out, especially if

you're suffering from loss of volume/hair loss.

Verdict : 8/10