Strip off for 2013: Toners

Hands up, I never used tone my face. Still, New Year, time to tone up and all that. Yes, it’s yet another step in my already complicated skincare regime, but after using these products, I can honestly say it has been a worthwhile addition, and definitely makes getting up five minutes earlier pay off. Here are some of my new favourites.

Jason C C-Effects™ Super-C™ Toner 150ml £10.49

This one really smells like it’s doing good, if that makes sense. Fresh and zesty, when I sweep it over my skin, I swear I can feel the vitamin C sinking in. A real pleasure to use, it makes my skin feel smoother and somehow more supple. It fights ageing too – a real bonus in my eyes. I’m keen to experiment with more products from the Jason C-Effects range. After using this toner, I’ve been continuing along the Vitamin C theme by following up with Murad Active RadianceSerum (this has become a staple, no matter how much my routine varies).

Rodial Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Tonic 100ml £29.00

It’s billed as ‘an instant refresher’ on their website and I would definitely agree. It smells great a gives a really fine, moisturising mist. This one will be kept in my desk drawer for that 3pm slump. It’s also coming with me on plane trips – even if, at 100ml, it’s the only thing I carry on. A gorgeous product with very stylish packaging. 

Elemis Rehydrating Ginseng Toner 200ml £21.00

Elemis Rehydrating Ginseng Toner combines extracts of Korean Ginseng, Quillaja Wood and Sweet Betty Flower. It feels like you’re spraying your face with a bouquet; simply lovely. 

Botanicals Organic Facial Serum: Rose & Camellia 30ml £18.95

High in GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid), this intensive anti-ageing serum helps regenerate skin tissue and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It smells amazing – I like to use this before bedtime. The chamomile version is lovely too. Not technically a toner but toning and  a nice one for after cleansing so I thought I'd sneak it in regardless. 

Sisley Floral Toning Lotion £51.50 (currently on sale in Selfridges) 250ml

If a Disney princess were toning her face, she would use this. It smells like heaven and is the prettiest shade of pink. It's alcohol free to boot. It has a higher price point, but I believe you always get amazing value for money with this brand and always head for their Selfridges stand when I’m feeling flush! 

Strip off for 2013: Cleansers

After Christmas, my skin took on a puffy, pale, spotty appearance. Too many toxins, some pretty naughty food and little to no exercise had seriously taken their toll. I decided to take better care of myself in 2013 and have now started to eat more healthily and get to the gym more too. Skin-wise, a thorough cleanse seemed like the best place to start. Here are some of my favourite cleansing products.

 

Boots Botanics All Bright Eye Soothing Eye Make Up Remover 150ml £2.49

 

Think I've mentioned before that this is my favourite ever eye-make-up remover. It’s really oily and gets rid of every trace of my waterproof mascara. Amazing price, amazing product. I love the new-look Botanics packaging too.

Elemis Revitalise & Replenish Cleansing Duo £21.00

 

The Elemis Rehydrating Rosepetal Cleanser contains extracts of healing Rose, Lecithin and Vitamins E and F. It’s so thick and moisturising, it makes cleansing feel really luxurious – I use this one in the evening, as I prefer a face wash to wake me up in the morning. This set includes a free Rehydrating Rosepetal Cleanser too – bonus!

Biore Steam Activated Cleanser 145ml £4.99

I love this cleanser – it’s a real time-saver in the morning and I love the fact that it’s activated by steam. It goes a bit tingly and feels like it’s giving my face a really deep clean. My face always looks fresh, healthy and glowing after using this.

 

Rituals Brightening Face Exfoliator 75ml £10.50

At last – an exfoliator which is actually pleasant to use. Thorough without being scratchy, this product succeeds in every way; it smells great, it looks great and it gives my face a really deep cleanse. It contains lotus flower and moringa extract.

Stay tuned for the second installment of this feature. Next? Toners...