It’s still early 2018 and already some amazing skincare has been launched! From serums to cleansers, the BD has tried and tested seven new premium skincare products. Read on to hear our thoughts…
EDITOR'S PICK: Rodan + Fields Active Hydration Serum - Georgie
What it is: This moisturising, oil-free serum contains Hyaluronic Acid and 30% Glycerin to help defend against dry skin. The result? Instantly moisturised skin that stays continuously hydrated all day long.
My experience: I went to the launch of this product a few weeks ago and after hearing from vice president of product development Dalia Stoddard (who was visiting from The States) about the new serum, I was completely sold. The product is formulated with R+F's unique 3D3P Molecular Matrix technology, a patent-pending, one-of-a kind structure that draws moisture from the atmosphere and locks it in. The product helps to form a personal water reservoir on the skin’s surface, allowing it to take in hydration as needed. This means that people of every age and every skin type can benefit from the serum.
Having used many antioxidant serums recently, I was keen to start using something that specifically targets hydration, especially as we enter a cooler season. I was quite surprised by how quickly my skin took to this serum and the changes I began seeing immediately. I have combination skin and come lunchtime I always start to get an oily T-zone, and my pores seem to magically expand throughout the day. I’m typically terrified of anything that will ‘hold’ moisture in my skin but it turns out that’s just what I needed to slow down the oil production. Within days of using the serum, my oily T-zone had drastically improved and I didn’t have to reach for the blotting paper quite as often.
Another reason I’m a firm backer of this serum, is that it complements all the other products in the R+F ranges, and suits every skin type, even sensitive. It’s nice to know that, even if I switch up my cleansers and moisturisers regularly, there’s a serum that will complement anything and everything and I’ll still see results.
Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator – Zoë
What it is: a refreshing gel-cream enhanced to give skin the power to rehydrate itself.
My experience: I’m a big fan of the original Moisture Surge Hydrator, and this gel cream was a perfect upgrade for my dry skin. It smooths on like silk without feeling sticky, and my face immediately felt cool and comfortable. The product contains “Auto-Replenishing Technology” designed to help skin create its own internal water source to continually rehydrate itself – and that’s no gimmick. After a morning application my skin felt even more hydrated at the end of the day. Plus, the product doubles as a mask – win!
Elizabeth Arden SUPERSTART Probiotic Boost Skin Renewal Biocellulose Mask – Rachel
What it is: A set of cooling face masks infused with a powerful blend of ingredients.
My experience: Definitely my new favourite sheet mask and weekly skin saviour! Saturated in a powerful blend of hyaluronic acid and probiotics, my skin is instantly hydrated and refreshed – noticeably plump and glowing after just 20 minutes. The biocellulose mask derived from coconut water feels so luxurious on my face, enhanced with a subtle fragrance and a cooling effect that lasts the entire time the mask is on. I have three left from the set and already can’t wait for pamper night to use the mask again!
Dermalogica Barrier Defense Booster – Tash
What it is: A concentrated oil booster formulated with natural oat oil, apple fruit and cactus pear extracts, licorice root and aloe vera to combat sensitive skin concerns of redness, discomfort and dehydration.
My experience: After all those summer beach days, my skin was feeling a bit lacklustre and in need of some serious skin care. Only a few days after using Dermalogica Barrier Defense Booster my skin felt more hydrated and much calmer. My redness has been soothed and dry patches and tightness relieved. This is the perfect trans-seasonal product for sensitive skin which started work straight away on restoring and reviving my stressed complexion.
endota spa new age™ Potent Brightening Serum – Janet
What it is: a rich serum to enhance skin clarity and brightness
My experience: I love serums and the richer the formulation, the better. Part of the new age™ collection, designed to help defy the signs of ageing with potent active formulations, this serum promises to correct, brighten and hydrate. I used the serum as a night time treatment imagining the key active Brightenyl™, which is four times more potent than vitamin C, would have the best chance of working while I was sleeping. After three days, I noticed my skin was looking refreshed, clear and more hydrated - it definitely worked for me!
L’Occitane Water Gel Cleanser – Grace
What it is: A gentle cleanser enriched with Reotier water which removes impurities accumulated throughout the day without drying your skin, leaving it soft and comfortable.
My experience: This cleanser feels so lovely on the skin, it forms into a light lather which gently removes makeup and leaves your skin feeling clean and fresh without being dry. I really love the packaging as well – it looks beautiful on my bathroom vanity.
Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate – Steph
What it is: A facial serum formulated with a high concentration of 10.5 per cent pure vitamin C, a well-known ingredient to help brighten skin and prevent the signs of ageing.
My experience: This super serum has become a much loved part of my evening skin routine! It is velvety soft in texture and instantly feels replenishing on my skin. This powerful solution is made to target the appearance of fine lines, especially marionette lines around the mouth; making this a great product to use for preventative aging in addition to evening and improving skin tone.
