Dawn Siler

And the award for “Most Beautiful Holiday Skincare Gift Set” goes to…

*drumroll*

Medik8 Encapsulated Forest! From afar, it looks like a children’s pop-up fairytale book, nudging you in with promises of mystery, love and a happy ending.

What it delivers is youthful, brighter skin – a happy ending indeed for your complexion. But seriously, who wouldn’t love to find this beauty under the Christmas tree? The goodies inside are just a plus. 🙂

What’s In Medik8 Encapsulated Forest Gift Set?

Medik8 Encapsulated Forest Gift Set features everything you need to repair your skin at night, so that it looks its best during the day:

• Cream Cleanse (40ml): A creamy cleanser that removes every trace of makeup to kickstart your evening skincare routine.
• Retinol Eye TR (7ml): A powerful retinol serum to slowly fade away crow’s feet and prevent new ones from forming.
• Retinol 3TR+ Intense (15ml): A powerful retinol serum for your face to help you keep wrinkles at bay and brighten the complexion.
• Advanced Night Restore Cream (15ml): A soothing cream to deeply moisturize skin and finish off your anti-aging skincare routine.

Let’s take a closer look at each one of them, shall we?

Medik8 Cream Cleanse

Medik8 Cream Cleanse is an exfoliating cleanser that removes makeup, dead cells, and other impurities in one go. Or so it promises…

The creamy texture glides smoothly on the skin. I pour a small dollop on a cotton pad, massage it onto my skin, and rinse it off with a damp washcloth.

When I’m done, my skin is left softer and perfectly clean. Thank Cocoa butter and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (a non-comedogenic derivative of coconut oil) for that.

These moisturizing ingredients double up as cleansing agents. They melt away all traces of oil and dirt on your face, rinsing them away down the drain.

What about its exfoliating property? Medik8 Cream Cleanse has a small amount of Mandelic Acid, an AHA that dissolves the glue that holds skin cells together… when left on the skin.

In a cleanser, it doesn’t have the time to do much before you rinse it off. But it’s not completely useless. For sensitive skin, this may be all the exfoliation you can take.

Related: AHAs VS BHA: Which One Should You Use?

Medik8 Retinol Eye TR

Medik8 Retinol Eye TR is an oil-based retinol serum for your eyes. Use it sparingly because it takes a couple of minutes for the oil to sink in.

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A, the only thing (so far!) scientifically proven to reduce wrinkles and crow’s feet. The catch? It’s irritating. As a rule, start with a low concentration and work your way up slowly.

Medik8 Retinol Eye TR contains 0.1% retinol. I know 0.1% seems insignificant, but it’s pretty powerful. To make it even gentler on the skin, Medik8 uses a Time Release technology. That’s a fancy way of saying it releases retinol over a period of several hours instead than hitting skin all at once.

As retinol targets your wrinkles, the safflower oil base moisturises your skin, leaving it softer and smoother all night long.

Does it work? Yes. Retinol can make a difference in your wrinkles…. Slowly. Consistency is key here. You need to use it for a few months before you see results.

Related: The Complete Guide To Retinol: What It Is, What It Does, And How To Use It

Medik8 Retinol 3TR+ Intense

Medik8 Retinol 3TR+ Intense reminds me of The Ordinary 0.2% Retinol In Squalane. They both have an oily, squalene-based texture that deeply moisturises skin while retinol does its antiaging job.

But Medik8 Retinol 3TR+ Intense differs from The Ordinary Serum in two ways:

• Higher concentration: Medik8 Retinol 3TR+ Intense has 0.3% retinol, making it a little bit more powerful.
• Time-Release Technology: It releases retinol over a period of several hours instead than all at once. It’s still as effective, but gentler on the skin.

So, what does retinol do for your skin, exactly? It has three jobs:

• It fights free radicals before they can wreak their damage on your skin and give you wrinkles and dark spots.
• It speeds up cellular turnover (i.e. the skin’s exfoliating process) to brighten the complexion, treat acne, and fade away dark spots.
• It boosts collagen production to keep skin firm and elastic for as long as possible.

Medik8 Retinol 3TR+ Intense takes a few minutes to absorb into the skin (thank the oil base for that). When it does, your skin feels so soft and smooth.

With regular use, it helps to even out the texture of your skin, shrink large pores, and fade away discolourations. It helps with wrinkles and firmness, but it takes a while to see results. Hang in there, it’s worth it!

Related: What Strength Of Retinol Should You Use?

Medik8 Advaced Night Restore Cream

There’s a reason why Medik8 Advanced Night Restore Cream made it into the Encapsulated Forest gift set. It’s the perfect complement to retinol.

Remember when I mentioned retinol can be irritating, especially if you’ve never used it before. A good moisturizer can soothe the dryness and irritation away… if it has the right actives.

Medik8 Advanced Night Restore Cream uses a blend of squalane and ceramides to do the job. Both are natural components of your skin’s protective barrier, so can help strengthen it.

It works like this: your skin’s protective barrier is your first line of defense against harsh weather, irritating pollutants, and everything else that’s trying to harm it.

If these skin enemies break down your skin’s barrier, all hell breaks loose. Skin becomes drier. Loses its glow. Gets all red and irritated.

Squalane and ceramides patch up the holes in your barrier, so that moisture stay in and germs and other irritants stay out. Now that your barrier’s intact, retinol won’t irritate your skin as much.

I wouldn’t say this cream is lightweight, but it’s definitely not thick. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it softer and smoother for hours. The best part? It didn’t make me breakout.

The only thing I’m not too fond of? The earthy citrus scent. It’s lovely but can be irritating for sensitive skin types. Luckily, my skin doesn’t have a problem with it.

Related: How To Strengthen The Skin’s Protective Barrier (And Why It Matters)

Price & Availability

£60.00 at Medik8

What do you think of Medik8 Encapsulated Forest Gift Set? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Medik8 Cream Cleanse Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Stearic Acid, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Glycerin, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Cetearyl Alcohol, Mandelic Acid, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dehydroacetic Acid, Laureth-7, Limonene. 

Medik8 Retinol Eye TR Ingredients

Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Lecithin, BHT. 

Medik8 Retinol 3TR+ Intense Ingredients

Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Dimethicone, PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer, Climbazole, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinol, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Leaf Oil, Decylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Lecithin, BHT.

Medik8 Advanced Night Restore Cream Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Phytosterols, Stearic Acid, Propylene Glycol, C12-16 Alcohols, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceramide NP, Ceramide 3, Palmitic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide EOS, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AP, Cholesterol, Hylocereus Undatus (Dragon Fruit) Fruit Extract, Acetyl Glucosamine, Amelanchier Alnifolia (Saskatoon Berry) Fruit Extract, Ferric Hexapeptide-35, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Neroli) Flower Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cetearyl Olivate, Caprooyl Phytosphingosine, Caprooyl Sphingosine, Phytosphingosine, Sorbitan Olivate, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Oil, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Sorbitol, Tremella Fuciformis (Snow Mushroom) Extract, Dehydroacetic Acid, Behenyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Vetiveria Zizanoides (Vetiver) Root Oil, Behenic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Herb Oil, Carbomer, Ceteareth-25, Cetyl Alcohol, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Leaf Oil, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Limonene, Linalool. 

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If I had to use only one cleanser for the rest of my life, I’d go with Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. No doubt about it.

I know, you didn’t expect that. If you’ve been around for a while, you know I often say it doesn’t matter much what cleanser you use. Any cleanser that leaves your skin clean but not tight will do. 

I still believe that. In the past, I’ve been super fickle with cleansers and used whatever was cheap without problems. But since meeting Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, I don’t stray as often. And when I do, I always come back to it in the end. There’s something about it my skin just can’t get enough of.

Maybe it’s the super emollient formula. Maybe it’s the addition of a muslin cloth that exfoliates my skin while cleansing, saving me time in the morning. What I know is that after every use, my skin feels super soft and clean. Here’s what makes the magic happen:

Key Ingredients In Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser

Emulsifiers

A quick look at the ingredient list reveals something unusual: there are no detergents here. How the heck can it cleanse skin without detergents?!

Emulsifiers.

Ingredients like Cetearyl alcohol, Cetyl esters, Sorbitan stearate, Polysorbate 60 aren’t sexy or popular but they’re what makes this cleanser work.

Emulsifiers bind oil and water together. This means they can remove both water-soluble and oil-soluble grime, such as dirt and makeup. Plus, they moisturise skin to boot. Win win.

Cocoa Seed Butter

Derived from the roasted seeds of the cocoa tree, cocoa seed butter is  super moisturising. This rich and creamy butter is loaded with fatty acids, a group of substances that make up the skin’s protective barrier. They make skin soft and smooth and bring even the driest of skin types back to health again.

In a cleanser, cocoa butter makes sure skin doesn’t come out worse for wear from the cleansing process. While some cleansers can leave your skin feeling tight, cocoa seed butter keeps it soft and smooth. Plus, it’s loaded with polyphenols, antioxidants that keep wrinkles at bay.

Eucalyptus & Rosemary Oil

I have to mention the “baddies” in the formula. Eucalyptus leaf oil and rosemary oil are proof that not all essential oils are good for you.

Eucalyptus makes your lotions and potions smell good while rosemary has antioxidant properties BUT both have fragrant compounds that can irritate sensitive skin.

My skin isn’t sensitive so I can use the cleanser without problems. Phew! But skincare guru Caroline Hirons points out this combination turns her skin into a red and burning mess.

I’m sure most people can use this cleanser fine but if your skin is sensitive, you may want to skip this.

Related: Natural Ingredients That Can Irritate Sensitive Skin

Let’s Put It To The Test: Personal Use & Opinion

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser has a thick, rich and creamy consistency – it feels more like a moisturiser than a cleanser.

I start by massaging a pump all over my skin. Then, I dampen one of the washcloths that comes with the cleanser and wipe my face clean with it. As the cleanser quickly  removes all traces of dirt and makeup (even waterproof mascara!), the washcloth gently exfoliate skin, getting rid of old dead cells, too.

I have to admit I was a bit sceptical at first. I wasn’t sure a cleanser this moistuirizing could do such a throughout cleansing job but it does. I’m so glad I was proven wrong!

I’ve been using it daily for a month now and my skin feels so soft. Unlike most cleansers out there, it doesn’t strip the skin of the moisturising oils it needs or compromises its protective barrier. On the contrary, it keeps everything smooth and healthy.

I especially love to use it in winter when my skin gets a little drier than usual (thanks harsh weather!). Rather than aggravate the problem, this cleanser gently takes care of my skin, leaving it both clean and soft.

The catch? You really need to be religious about washing that washcloth. Wet washcloths are a breeding ground for bacteria. If you wipe your face with a washcloth that’s even slightly damp, you may get an infection or something nasty.

That’s not Liz Earle’s fault. All washcloths require a little bit of extra care. If you’re too lazy to wash your washcloth after every use and wait for it to fully dry (I am sometimes 😉 ), you can use the cleanser without it. It’ll still do the cleansing job well. But, unless you use a separate exfoliant, you can say goodbye to the cleanser’s exfoliating benefits.

When I don’t use the washcloth, my skin isn’t as bright as when I do. This subtle glow is the result of exfoliation. The cleanser alone can’t give it to you.

Available at: 100ml pump starter kit, £16.00; 100ml pump (no washcloths), £14.50; 30ml tube + 1 muslin cloth, £6.50 at Liz Earle and Feel Unique

SHOP THE POST

Ingredients: Aqua (water), Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Theobroma cacao (cocoa) seed butter, Cetearyl alcohol, Cetyl esters, Cera alba (beeswax), Glycerin, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan stearate, Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, Humulus lupulus (hops) extract, Chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, Propylene glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Panthenol, Benzoic acid, Dehydroacetic acid, Sorbitol, Limonene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyaminopropyl biguanide, Citric acid, Sodium hydroxide.

Disclosure: this item was sent by PR for consideration. For more information, please see my disclaimer.

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I’m not gonna lie: the first thing that attracted me to Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet is the pink tube. How cute is that? It’s definitely something I’d love to display on my vanity.

But is the juice inside any good? If you have dry skin, you’re in for a treat…

Key Ingredients In Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet

Grape Extracts

That’s not a typo. Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet has 3 types of grape-derived extracts: Grape Fruit Water, Grape Juice, and Palmitoyl Grape Seed Extract.

Grape extracts are loaded with antioxidants that can slow down premature aging. They neutralise free radicals before they have the chance to give you wrinkles. According to a 1997 study, they do this better than Vitamins C and E!

Its antioxidants also boost the photoprotection of your sunscreen. They’re NOT a substitute for it, mind you. But it’s a good idea to layer the cream with your sunscreen in the morning for that extra layer of protection.

The catch? Doesn’t matter how powerful an antioxidant is, you should never use it alone. The more antioxidants a cream contain, the better. This one contains Vitamin E and chamomile, too.

Related: Is Resveratrol The Best Antioxidant Of All?

Shea Butter

Shea butter makes up the base of Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet is Shea Butter. Derived from the African shea tree, it is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants.

Fatty acids are moisturising. They strengthen your skin’s protective barrier so that moisture stay in and germs stay out. In winter, they also prevent your skin from getting too dry. Antioxidants fight off free radicals to slow down premature aging.

If you’ve got dry, mature skin, this is an ingredient you DO want in your skincare routine.

Related: Why Shea Butter Is A Godsend For Dry Skin

Let’s Put It To The Test: Personal Use & Opinion

Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet has a sorbet-like, lightweight texture. At first, I thought, “Mmmm, this won’t be too hydrating.” Thank goodness I was wrong.

The cream absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it soft and smooth for the entire day. A little goes a loooong way, so the tube will last you for ages.

FYI, if you have oily skin, the texture will still feel a little too rich for you. I recommend you use it at night only. Even so, it won’t cause any breakouts.

The only thing I could do without is the scent. I’m surprised Caudalie added fragrance to a cream designed for sensitive skin. Everyone knows that fragrance is the most irritated ingredient in cosmetics!

If you don’t react badly to it (and I didn’t), there’s no reason not to use this cream. But if you’ve got sensitive skin, you’d want to do a patch test first. Just in case.

Available at: £23.00 at Cult Beauty, Dermstore, Escentual, Feel Unique, Sephora and SpaceNK

Ingredients:
Aqua (Water), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Water*, Dicaprylyl Ether*, Glycerin*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Extract*, Hexyldecanol*, Hexyldecyl Laurate*, Behenyl Alcohol*, Glyceryl Stearate*, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Erythritol, Parfum (Fragrance), Lecithin*, Palmitoyl Grape Seed Extract*, Mannitol*, Tocopherol*, Caprylyl Glycol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice*, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols*, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Carboxymethyl Beta-glucan, Sodium Phytate*, Potassium Sorbate, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sodium Hyaluronate, Homarine Hcl, Glyceryl Caprylate*, Alcohol, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15. *Origine Vegetale.

Take The Guesswork Out Of Skincare Shopping

Get access to the “Pro Skincare Library” for exclusive skincare routine “cheat sheets” and tricks to help you navigate the beauty aisles jungle like a pro and immediately know what to pick off the shelves to achieve the gorgeous skin of your dreams – even when you’re drowning in an endless sea of skincare products.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription and get access to the skin library.

I love this time of the year.

Walking around the dusky streets decorated with sparkling lights, sipping hot chocolate at a local cafe, and getting the best skincare deals of the year.

The shops are packed with gift sets offering you a brand’s best-selling products for a fraction of the retail price.

It’s the perfect opportunity to introduce your BFF to Korean skincare, try that luxury brand you’ve had your eye on for years, and treating your friends to pampering sheet masks.

No matter who’s on your list, you’ll find skincare gift sets that’ll please everyone, from the French skincare lover to the acne-prone teen.

Here are the best holiday skincare gift sets for 2019. Take your pick!

For Sensitive Skin: First Aid Beauty Skin Summit ($48.00)

The name says it all: First Aid Beauty Skin Summit is a first aid kid for dry and sensitive skin. Whether you’re suffering with it all year round or your skin got a case of winter dryness, this kit can nurse it back to health. It includes:

• Pure Skin Face Cleanser (2.0 fl. oz.): A creamy face wash that removes all traces of dirt, oil and makeup.
• Facial Radiance Pads (60 count): A gentle exfoliant that brightens skin.
• Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask (2.0 fl. oz.): A soothing mask with colloidal oatmeal to reduce redness, itchiness, and irritations.
• Ultra Repair Hydrating Serum (0.5 fl. oz.): A hydrating serum packed with soothing ingredients to moisturize skin and calm down irritations at the same time.
• Ultra Repair Cream (6.0 oz.): Packed to the brim with soothing agents, it deeply moisturises skin, strengthens its protective barrier, and reduces redness and irritation. You can use it on both your face and body.

Available at: Dermstore and Feel Unique

For The Mask Lover: Peter Thomas Roth Mask-Erade Kit ($19.00)

Is there a more relaxing pampering treat than a mask? Peter Thomas Roth Mask-Erade Kit features 5 masks for every concern, from wrinkles to dehydrated skin. You can gift them all to your mum or use them as individual stocking stuffers for 5 friends. Here’s what’s inside:

• Rose Stem Cell Bio-Repair Gel Mask (0.47 fl. oz.): A hydrating mask with antioxidants to make skin soft and supple.
• 24K Gold Mask Pure Luxury Lift & Firm (0.47 fl. oz.): A gimmicky mask with gold. It looks cool, but it only hydrates skin.
• Irish Moor Mud Purifying Black Mask (0.47 fl. oz.): Perfect for oily skin, it helps to absorb excess oil.
• Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Enzymatic Dermal Resurfacer (0.47 fl. oz.): An exfoliating mask that makes skin smoother and brighter.
• Cucumber Gel Mask Extreme De-Tox™ Hydrator (0.47 fl. oz.): A soothing and hydrating mask for dry and dull skin.

Available at: Cult Beauty and Dermstore

For The Sun Worshipper: Supergoop! Your Everyday SPF Kit ($32.00)

Got a friend who loves basking in the sun? Supergoop! Your Everyday SPF Kit is the perfect gift. It has three sunscreen formulas to keep you safe in the sun and prevent sun damage (the nasty bugger that always turn into wrinkles later on):

• Everyday Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 (2.4 fl. oz.): A lightweight, non-greasy formula for both your face and body.
• Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 (0.34 fl. oz.): Ideal for oily skin, this oil-free sunscreen has a lightweight texture that shields skin without leaving a greasy mess behind.
• Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50 (1 fl. oz.): A refreshing setting spray to top up your sunscreen doing the day.

Available at: Dermstore

For The Skincare Newbie: The Ordinary The Daily Set (£15.00)

Want to introduce your teen to skincare or have a friend who doesn’t have a proper routine yet? Get her on The Ordinary Bandwagon. The Ordinary The Daily Set features everything you need to start a basic skincare routine:

• Squalane Cleanser (50ml): It effortlessly removes all traces of dirt and stubborn makeup from skin.
• Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA (30ml): A gentle moisturizer that strengthens your skin’s protective barrier and makes your skin soft and supple.
• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (30ml): A hydrating serum that plumps up skin, softens its texture, and makes the complexion glow.

Available at: Asos, Cult Beauty, and Look Fantastic

For Your Mum: Drunk Elephant The Midi Committee (£40.00)

As you get older, you need more heavy-duty skincare that can keep wrinkles off your face, fade away dark spots, and deeply moisturise skin. Drunk Elephant The Midi Committee covers all basics:

• Protini Polypeptide Cream (30ml): A hydrating moisturiser with peptides that helps prevent wrinkles and sagging.
• A-Passioni Retinol Cream (10ml): A heavy-duty moisturizer with retinol to reduce wrinkles and fade away dark spots (only for pro retinol users!).
• B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum (5ml): A hylauronic acid serum that intensely hydrates dry and dehydrated skin.
• Slaai Makeup Melting Butter Cleanser (22g): A creamy makeup remover that melts away all traces of dirt and makeup.
• Bamboo Booster (1.7g): A gentle exfoliant that brightens and soothes skin.

Available at: Cult Beauty and SpaceNK

For The Natural Skincare Lover: Pai Natural Treasures Hero Collection (£50.00)

We all have that one friend who refuses to use anything that’s not natural. Get her a box of Pai Natural Treasures Hero Collection. It features daily staples for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin:

• Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser (200ml): A hydrating cream cleanses that removes every trace of dirt and grime, leaving skin clean and soft.
• Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil (30ml): A moisturizing oil loaded with antioxidants that fights wrinkles, soothes irritations, and makes skin softer and suppler.
• Chamomile & Rosehip Calming Day Cream (10ml): A gentle, moisturizing cream that soothes irritations while hydrating skin.
• Dual Effect Sensitive Skin Cloth: Gives the cleanser a gentle exfoliating boost.

Available at: Content Beauty, Cult Beauty, and Free People

For The Korean Skincare Lover: Cosrx Favorites Best Sellers Set ($25.00)

Want to introduce Korean skincare to your BFF? Cosrx Favorites Best Sellers Set is the perfect starting point. Here’s why:

• Low-pH Good Morning Cleanser (20 ml;): A gentle, pH-balanced foaming cleanser that cleanses skin without drying it out or irritating it.
• AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner (20 ml): A gentle, exfoliating toner that removes dead skin cells, making skin smoother and brighter. It helps treat acne, too.
• Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence (20 ml): Packed with 96% snail mucin, this essence is super moisturising. Rumour has it, it helps with acne, too.
• COSRX Oil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion (20 ml): A lightweight moisturizer that makes skin soft and supple, calms down irritations, and leaves no greasy residue behind.

Available at: Skin Library and Soko Glam

For Acne-Prone Skin: Paula’s Choice Repair + Restore Oily Kit ($108.00)

Your friend’s complaining she’s getting too many pimples or can’t get her acne under control? Paula’s Choice Repair + Restore Oily Kit has what it takes to keep acne at bay and give her the clear complexion she’s longing for:

• RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment 2% BHA (88 ml /3 fl. oz.): A gentle exfoliant that gets deep into the pores, removing all the gunk that’s giving you blackheads and acne. It shrinks pores, too.
• RESIST Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum (30 ml / 1 fl. oz.): A powerful antiaging serum with retinol, an antioxidant that reduces both wrinkles and acne.
• RESIST Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator (10 ml / 0.33 fl. oz.): Packed with antioxidants, this lightweight moisturizer deeply hydrates the complexion and prevents new wrinkle from forming.

Available at: Paula’s Choice

For The French Skincare Lover: Bioderma Sensibio Routine Kit ($38.00)

I love French skincare for its no-frills approach to skincare. Bioderma Sensibio Routine Kit is the perfect example. It has everything you need to keep dry and sensitive skin soft and healthy all winter long. It includes:

• Sensibio H2O (250 ml): A non-rinse micellar water that gently removes makeup from your face and eyes.
• Sensibio Eye (15 ml): A gentle eye cream that moisturises the under-eye area and relieves puffiness.
• Sensibio Light (40 ml): A soothing face moisturizer that hydrates skin, strengthens its protective barrier, and keeps redness away.

Available at: Dermstore

For The Man In Your Life: Jack Black The King Of Jack ($49.00)

Want to get your man into skincare? Jack Black The King Of Jack makes the perfect introduction. It has everything your man needs for both face and body care:

• Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser (3 fl. oz.): A gentle foaming face wash for normal to oily skin types. It removes both dirt and excess sebum.
• Double-Duty Face Moisturizer (3.3 fl. oz.): A soothing cream that moisturises skin and relieves itching after shaving.
• Cool Moisture Body Lotion (3 fl. oz.): A moisturizing body lotion loaded with antioxidants to keep skin soft and young.
• Beard Lube® Conditioning Shave (3 fl. oz.): A moisturizing pre-shave oil to prevent razor burn and irritation.
• Charcoal Body Bar (1 bar): A multi-tasking bar soap that cleanses, exfoliates and moisturizes skin.

Available at: Dermstore and Ulta

What are your fave holiday skincare gift sets of 2019? Share your picks in the comments below.

Take The Guesswork Out Of Skincare Shopping

Get access to the “Pro Skincare Library” for exclusive skincare routine “cheat sheets” and tricks to help you navigate the beauty aisles jungle like a pro and immediately know what to pick off the shelves to achieve the gorgeous skin of your dreams – even when you’re drowning in an endless sea of skincare products.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription and get access to the skin library.

Did you know aloe was one of the most frequently prescribed medicines during the19th century?

No wonder why. We’ve all heard about its soothing power. Word on the street has it, Aloe Vera can moisturize skin, soothe irritations, heal sunburns, treat psoriasis, and even make stretch marks disappear.

Can it really do all that or have we all been carried away by the hype? Let’s find out.

What Is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera is a cactus plant that belongs to the Liliaceae family. It grows in dry climates, such as India and parts of Africa.

To make the gel, you cut open the leaves and collect the mucilage that oozes out.

This mucilage is made 99.5% water. It’s the remaining 0.5% that holds the real magic. It’s a combination of mucopolysaccharides (basic sugars), lipids, vitamins, choline and choline salicylate that have soothing properties for your skin.

What Are The Aloe Vera Facial Benefits?

If you listen to the hype, Aloe Vera can do anything, from moisturising skin to soothing sunburns and even treating acne. Sounds too good to be true?

It kinda is. Don’t get me wrong. Aloe Vera isn’t a miracle cure-all, but it has plenty of benefits for your skin. Let’s separate truth from fiction, shall we?

Is Aloe Vera A Good Moisturizer?

Yes. Aloe Vera is mostly made up of water, so it definitely hydrates skin. It works thanks to a humectant mechanism. Let me explain it in plain English.

Humectants are moisture magnets. Like a magnet, they attract moisture from the environment and bind it into your skin. Once there, the extra moisture plumps up your skin, so your fine lines and wrinkles look smaller. It also makes skin softer and gives your complexion a dewy glow.

Aloe Vera is a good moisturizer for all skin types, including oily. It hydrates skin without adding any extra oil to it. No greasy feeling or extra shine.

Dry skin? It still works, but you need a moisturizer on top to seal the extra moisture in.

Related: What The Heck Are Humectants And Why Are They In Your Skincare Products?

Can Aloe Vera Soothe Sunburns & Irritations?

Again, yes. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin, sunburns, eczema and psoriasis.

It’s not a miracle cure. One application isn’t enough to make redness disappear, heal a sunburn, or treat psoriasis. But it helps relieve the symptoms for a while.

Granted, consistency is key. You need to use Aloe Vera regularly until the irritation/sunburn has fully healed. But if you want to treat them naturally instead than using corticosteroids, Aloe Vera will do the job. Just be patient.

P.S. Aloe Vera isn’t a treatment for psoriasis or eczema. But it makes a good moisturizer for you, especially when you’re experiencing a flare-up.

Related: 3 Ways To Treat A Sunburn Naturally

Can Aloe Vera Treat Acne?

It’s true that Aloe Vera has some anti-bacterial properties. That means it can treat acne, right? No so fast.

A 2018 shows that Aloe Vera can treat moderate acne… when used together with propolis and tea tree oil, two known acne fighters.

This combo treated acne better than erythromycin and was gentler on the skin. It’s likely that propolis and tea tree oil killed the acne bacteria and Aloe Vera soothed skin.

But how well does Aloe Vera treat acne on its own? I couldn’t find any studies on topical application of Aloe Vera for the treatment of acne.

But I’ve come across one that tested oral Aloe Vera juice for acne. The results? It reduced acne lesions… but not any better than the placebo!

In other words, aloe vera can’t treat acne. But it helps to soothe the inflammation from acne itself and the harsh anti-acne treatments you may be using (think tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide).

Related: Is Tea Tree Oil An Effective Treatment For Acne?

Can Aloe Vera Reduce Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks happen when skin expands to accommodate growth. When you stretch it too much, you disrupt collagen production. Next thing you know, stretch marks appear on your skin. Ugh.

They’re totally normal. You don’t have to be ashamed of them. Even celebrities have them. They’re just better at hiding them (Photoshop helps a lot 😉 ).

But can you get rid of them with a bit of Aloe Vera gel? Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but nope, Aloe Vera can’t reduce stretch marks. No topical treatment can.

So why do so many people swear Aloe Vera improved the look of their stretch marks? Look is the key word here.

Aloe Vera is moisturizing remember? Anything that moisturises skin makes it appear smoother. But once the moisturizing effect is over, your stretch marks are still there. Bummer!

Does Aloe Vera Have Any Side Effects?

Aloe Vera is super gentle on the skin. Allergies and irritations are very, very rare.

How To Use Aloe Vera In Your Skincare Routine

Aloe vera is so gentle, it goes with everything. You don’t have to worry about mixing it with retinoids, niacinamide, or whatever. Phew!

But if you use it to hydrate your skin, do you apply Aloe Vera or moisturizer first? Aloe Vera. It attracts moisture into your skin, remember? Then, you can follow up with moisturizer to seal it all in.

Related: What Skincare Ingredients Should You Never Use Together?

Aloe Vera Gel VS Cream: Which One Is Better For Your Skin?

Aloe Vera is Aloe Vera, ladies. As long as Aloe Vera is top of the ingredient list (i.e., there’s enough of it to do the job), it doesn’t matter if you’re using a gel or a cream.

In the end, it all comes down to personal preference. Oily skin loves the lightweight texture of a gel, while dry skin prefers the richness of a cream.

Related: How To Read A Skincare Ingredient List (Even If You Hate Science)

What Are The Best Skincare Products With Aloe Vera?

• Benton Aloe Soothing Mask Pack ($2.40): Available at Soko Glam.
• Cosrx Aloe Vera Oil-Free Moisture Cream ($20.00): Available at Look Fantastic and Revolve.
• Skinfood Aloe Vera 93% Soothing Gel ($3.99): Available at Ulta.

The Bottom Line

Aloe Vera is a moisturising and soothing powerhouse, but it’s not the miracle worker it’s cracked up to be. It hydrates your skin, calms down irritations, and soothes sunburns. But there’s no proof it does anything else.

What do you use Aloe Vera for in your skincare routine? Let me know in the comments below.

Take The Guesswork Out Of Skincare Shopping

Get access to the “Pro Skincare Library” for exclusive skincare routine “cheat sheets” and tricks to help you navigate the beauty aisles jungle like a pro and immediately know what to pick off the shelves to achieve the gorgeous skin of your dreams – even when you’re drowning in an endless sea of skincare products.

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Dr Fayne Frey believes the skincare industry has gone mad.

She’s fed up with brands that charge you an arm and a leg just because they can. Or worse, sell you products they know are bad for your skin (harsh scrubs, anyone?).

Dr Frey believes that everything you need to have the best skin of your life is available at your local drugstore. But how to navigate through the aisles and go home with a winner?

She’s got you covered. Her website, Fry Face sets the record straight on common beauty myths and what your skin really needs. Plus, she’s created a handy database to help you pick the best cleansers, moisturisers, and sunscreens at the drugstore (seriously, your skin doesn’t need much else).

But what does Dr Frey uses on her skin? In this interview, she shares her own (minimalistic) skincare routine, habits, and more:

1. When did you become interested in skincare?

I became interested in the science of skincare while I was studying chemistry in college during my premedical training. That interested blossomed during medical school and afterwards during my dermatology training. As a practicing dermatologist and an expert in skincare product ingredients and formulation (thanks to my chemistry background) I became an educator and consumer advocate.

It became clear to me, that the average consumer was confused by an overwhelming number of product choices, exacerbated by misleading information and marketing hype. I founded FryFace.com. An educational skincare website and Product Selector that separates what is truly necessary for healthy skin based on the medical literature, products offered by reputable skincare companies, from a segment of the beauty industry and self-proclaimed skincare ’experts” who tout products that not only aren’t necessary but in many instances can be harmful and cause adverse reactions.

2. What’s your skincare routine like?

First and foremost, a healthy lifestyle. I exercise 6 days a week. I eat a healthy diet, except for an occasional handful of peanut M & M’s, and I get 8 hours of sleep most nights. I laugh a lot!

Regarding the actual skin routine for the skin itself, I keep it simple. I wash my face with water only during my morning shower. I apply sunscreen to my face, neck and hands every single day, and to all exposed skin pending on the time of the year (I don’t apply sunscreen to skin covered by clothes.) I often reapply my sunscreen during the afternoon.

I wear fewer than 5 makeup items most days that takes me no more than 3 minutes to apply. (I’m a minimalist!) I wash my face with water again during my evening shower and apply a moisturizer to the surface of most of my body most days of the year. (True confession: I often get lazy with the moisturizer during the hot humid summer days.)

3. If you could only use three skincare products for the rest of your life, what would they be?

1. Sunscreen.
2. 100% petroleum jelly, the most versatile skincare product on the market.
3. A moisturizer.
4. I have to add a fourth, a soap free cleanser.

Click here for an article I wrote some time ago to explain why each is my favorite.

4. What are your fave skincare brands and why?

My favorite skincare brands are nationally and internationally recognized brands that have the resources to produce effective, safe and affordable skincare products. They are also the most available skincare products found at local pharmacies and drugstores around the world. For this reason, these types of skincare products are included in the FryFace Product Selector database. 

5. What are your top 3 skincare tips to take care of your skin?

1. A healthy lifestyle (sleep, exercise, a healthy diet, laughter).
2. Sunscreen.
3. Moisturize.

6. What skincare treatmentsdo you regularly have done?

None.

7. What lifestyle habits do you have that keep your skin in top shape?

I run 35 miles a week, I swim 2 miles a week, I spin 2 hours a week. I sleep 8 hours a day. I keep my BMI in the normal range with a healthy diet. I laugh often. I wear sunscreen daily and liberally. I moisturize regularly especially during dry winter months.

8. What’s in your makeup bag?

Sunscreen, a blush, eye shadow, mascara, a lipstick, petroleum jelly, a lip balm, and tissues.

Thank you, Dr Frey.

Don’t forget to check out Fry Face to learn more about Dr Frey and the skincare products she recommends (based on science, not hype). You can also keep up with her on Instagram.

Take The Guesswork Out Of Skincare Shopping

Get access to the “Pro Skincare Library” for exclusive skincare routine “cheat sheets” and tricks to help you navigate the beauty aisles jungle like a pro and immediately know what to pick off the shelves to achieve the gorgeous skin of your dreams – even when you’re drowning in an endless sea of skincare products.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription and get access to the skin library.

I love beauty boxes like GlossyBox. They give us beauty addicts the chance to try new stuff all the time without breaking the bank.

I know I discovered a few gems this way. But, sometimes, you get a stuck with a dud. For me, that’s Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Wrinkle Filling Treatment Night Cream. Here’s why it didn’t work for me:

What’s In Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream?

SHEA BUTTER

Dry skin loves shea butter. It’s one of the most moisturising things on this planet.

Derived from the nut of the Shea tree, shea butter is rich in both moisturising fatty acid (oleic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and linolenic acid) and antioxidants.

It’s the fatty acids that give it its incredible moisturising properties. They create a barrier on the skin that slows down water loss, helping to keep skin hydrated for up to 8 hours… and beyond.

The catch? It’s a bit too moisturizing for oily skin. It gives the cream a thick texture that your skin type can’t stand.

Related: Dry Skin? Here’s Why You Should Add Shea Butter To Your Skincare Routine

HYALURONIC ACID

Shea butter traps moisture into the skin. But what if your skin doesn’t have enough moisture in the first place?

That’s where hyaluronic acid comes in. It attracts moisture from the air and binds it into your skin. It’s so powerful, it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water!

All that moisture makes your skin very happy: it plumps it up, so fine lines and wrinkles look smaller; makes it softer to the touch; and gives it a dewy glow.

P.S. Hyaluronic acid isn’t the only moisture magnet in Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream. Glycerin does the same job – but on a smaller scale.

Related: Why You Should Add Hyaluronic Acid To Your Skincare Routine, No Matter Your Skin Type

ISOPROPYL PALMITATE

I only had to take a look at the ingredient list to know that Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream would break me out – despite the brand claiming this stuff is non-comedogenic. *roll*

The culprit is Isopropyl Palmitate. It’s an emollient and thickener: it makes skin softer and gives more body to textures.

Here’s where things get trick. There is no scientific proof that Isopropyl Palmitate is comedogenic (because proper studies haven’t been done!). But EVERY SINGLE TIME I put it on my face, it gives me a horrible breakout. Coincidence? I don’t think so.

FYI, that doesn’t mean it’ll break you out, too. Dry skin types will probably be safe. Combination (like me), oily or acne-prone skin types are more at risk.

Related: What Skincare Ingredients Are Comedogenic?

Texture

Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream has a very rich and thick texture that spreads easily.

Fragrance

It has an unpleasant scent, but I can’t pinpoint exactly what it smells like. At least it’s not too strong and fades quickly.

How To Use It

It’s the last time of your evening skincare routine.

Performance & Personal Opinion

A few days after I’ve started using Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream, my skin become very soft and slightly plumper, which in turn made my fine lines look a little smaller.

The effects are only temporary. The extra moisture the cream gives your skin plumps it up. But, as the hours go by, the moisturising effect fades away, leaving your fine lines as deep as before.

Does that mean the cream doesn’t work? I wouldn’t say that. Your skin needs plenty of moisture to stay healthy and soft, and this cream provides it in spades.

Plus, who doesn’t want to reduce wrinkles, even if just for a few hours? But, if anti-aging is a concern for you, use the cream together with a retinol serum. That can fade away fine lines in the long run.

But retinol is harsh and takes it time to work. Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream is so moisturising, it’ll help your skin better tolerate it and make it look younger in the short run.

In other words, this way you’re getting the best of both worlds. If you have dry skin, that is. Other skin types, avoid it. This stuff will just break you out.

Who Is This For?

Dry skin.

Who Is This Not For?

Oily and acne-prone skin types. It’ll make you breakout.

Packaging

Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream is housed in a jar. I’m usually not a fan because light and air degrade antioxidants, making them go bad sooner. But this cream doesn’t have any, so the jar packaging isn’t an issue.

Does Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream Live Up To Its Claims?

Price & Availability

£21.00 at Escentual and Feel Unique

Do You Need It?

If you’re looking for a rich moisturizer that can hydrate skin and make your wrinkles look smaller for a few hours, this will do the job. Just don’t expect anything more than that.

Dupes & Alternatives

Take The Guesswork Out Of Skincare Shopping

Get access to the “Pro Skincare Library” for exclusive skincare routine “cheat sheets” and tricks to help you navigate the beauty aisles jungle like a pro and immediately know what to pick off the shelves to achieve the gorgeous skin of your dreams – even when you’re drowning in an endless sea of skincare products.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription and get access to the skin library.