My personal views on Times fashion team’s picks:
1) Prescriptives Super Line Preventor
Protective barrier serum that helps to give the skin an even texture; cocktail of targeted antioxidants that diminishes the look of lines and wrinkles by up to 54%.
Armed with Super Antioxidant System (SAS), it defends against the visible aging effects of free radicals triggered by environmental assaults both immediately after exposure and again up to 72 hours later. It helps strengthen skin and boost its natural defenses by helping skin bolster its collagen production to improve visible skin tone, radiance and diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
I prefer Estee Lauder’s Advance Night Repair.
This comprehensive, high-performance anti-aging serum ( inspired by groundbreaking DNA research ) helps continuously repair the appearance of past damage, prevent future damage and deliver high levels of hydration.
This advanced formula – with 20 patents worldwide – includes Chronolux™ Technology, neutralizes up to 90%* of environmentally generated free radicals before they can affect skin’s appearance ; creates the optimal environment for repair with nature’s long-proven moisture magnet – Hyaluronic Acid ; soothes daily irritation and builds a rich anti-oxidant reserve to help replenish skin’s natural protectants.
2) Neal’s Yard rose water toner
Inexpensive, natural toner that helps to freshen up and tighten the skin.
Rose water is an effective, exhilarating freshener that not only tones the skin but also lifts the spirit. Neal’s Yard is the most economic i had tried ; Aromatherapy Associates has a damask rose facial toner ; Amanda Lacey & Chantecaille both have luxurious rose tonics ( almost pure rose distillate ).
Neil’s Yard rose water contains alcohol and strictly speaking, it’s aloe juice with rose essential oil.
3) Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
Helps to reduce the depth of wrinkles and hydrates the skin to give the face a plumped-up, youthful glow.This revolutionary Anti-Ageing cream uses the Marine extract Padina Pavonica to transform the complexion in just over 2 weeks. Trials proved that the appearance in wrinkle depth was reduced by up to 78% and that hydration was increased by up to 45%. Skin firmness and elasticity are dramatically increased, whilst providing superior free radical protection.
Collagen is a great moisture magnet, but i don’t believe topical application of collagen enriched skin cream could revive/enhance collagen production in the dermis. I prefer creams with retinoids, peptides, alpha hydroxy acids.
4) Jurlique Biodynamic Beauty Serum
A lightweight serum made from biodynamic ingredients ; Rich in the living energy of organic Black Elder and Licorice, this serum helps fade discolorations and brightens skin for increased radiance ; Beech Tree Buds, Hibiscus and Yeast help strengthen the skin.
Jurlique’s biodynamic serum leaves a matt finish due to the presence of starch and i don’t find it nourishing enough. Biodynamic? Sounds more like a marketing scam.
5) Eve Lom Kiss Mix
Compact lip treatment which moisturises lips and gives a dewy, subtle sheen. One application lasts a long time.
My favorite! ( at least one of ) – dense enough for protection and nourishment , yet light enough for comfort; It’s also quite “minty” on application; The only complaint is you have to dip your finger into the pot……
6) Natura Bissé facial cleansing gel + AHA
A refreshing, wash-off, gel cleanser with alpha hydroxy acids that leaves your face clean without any drying effects.
I prefer Dermalogica’s age smart version.
7) Vaishaly night cream
A light yet very nourishing night cream that is easily and hygenically dispensed from a nifty press pump.
I enjoy using Vaishaly’s product; no hypes, simple rituals, delicate scents, good enough to eat ingredients……
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Extremely gentle exfoliant that can be used every day for a brighter-looking appearance.
As I use Eve Lom’s cleanser with polishing cloth, i find this unnecessary ; However, powdery paste like Dermalogica’s daily microfoliant is less abrasive when skin is blemished/irritated/inflammed. Calmia has a similar version ( skin bright micro polish ), both containing fruit enzymes and acids to renew the skin.
9) Chanel Précision Lait Confort creamy cleansing milk
A light, everyday cleaning milk which is soft on the skin and effectively removes the day’s grime.
There are plenty of equally efficient cleansing milk out there, which your bank manager will agree……
10) Dr Sebagh creme Extreme Maintenance
Ultra-rich cream specifically designed for very dry or sensitive skin. Absorbs easily.
Great cream, worth every penny, in my opinion.
11) Estee Lauder DayWear Plus multi-protection antioxidant creme SPF 15
An easily absorbed daily moisturiser with antioxidants and the bonus of an inbuilt SPF 15.
This kind of formulation might be a breakthrough in the 90’s, but what’s so special about it nowadays? I demand my day cream to have antioxidant properties and sun screens ( including sufficient UVA protection )
12) Ila face mask for revitalising skin
Clay-based mask infused with Damascene rose otto and Argan oil that draws out impurities without drying the skin. Gives the face a bright glow.
Best mask i had ever used! Even outdone Eve Lom’s……
13) Lancôme Flash Bronzer
Idiot-proof bronzer that quickly develops an even, natural, sun-kissed glow.
I prefer Dior’s or Guerlain’s.
14) The Organic Pharmacy Honey and Jasmine mask
Organic mask that is deeply hydrating for dry, parched skin. Use as a mask or leave on overnight.
Runny upon application + sticky when dry = messy
15) No7 Protect and Perfect night cream
The legendary cream from Boots: this restorative, replenishing cream delivers long-lasting hydration and a smooth, fresh appearance.
Never try this before! I prefer Olay’s
16) Spiezia organic facial cleanser
A 100% organic product that is approved by the British Soil Association. A deep cleanser that removes heavy make-up, leaving your skin feeling super-soft.
Addictive! An effective yet nurturing cleanser, nice texture, soul soothing aromas. I almost replace my Eve Lom’s with this!
17) Dr Haushka Rose Day Cream
Deeply nourishing day cream made from biodynamic ingredients. Great for dry skin or for very cold climates.
I find this a rather basic moisturizer, not worth the hypes/claims.
18) YSL eye make-up remover
A gentle yet highly effective remover that doesn’t sting the eyes. Also contains pro-vitamin B5, which coats and strengthens the lashes.
Lancome has better versions.
19) Guinot Anti Fatigue Yeux eye gel
Relaxes and soothes heavy and swollen eyelids and helps to reduce the appearance of fatigue.
I had never tried Guinot’s product.
20) Darphin Purifying Balm
Gorgeous-smelling, plant-based balm that helps to prevent breakouts.
I prefer blemish sticks by Clarins or Clinique. Tea tree oil does the trick as well.
21) Garnier Ultra Lift eye cream
Visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes.
I use La Mer.
22) SK-II skin refining treatment
Lifts away layers of dead skin cells to leave radiant, clear-looking skin. A discernible improvement can be seen after a month’s use. No added fragrance.
Overpriced cream that has a very tiny portion of BHA – save your money. Dr Sebagh’s masque once a week delivers better result than daily use of this marketing gimmicks.
23) Clarins Beauty Flash Balm
Revitalising, creamy gel that tightens the skin and adds a natural glow. Great as a base before applying make-up.
It may be a great product in the 80’s…… We have better and deserve better!
24) Sisley Broad Spectrum Facial Sunscreen, SPF 30
Colourless, high-protection sunscreen which absorbs easily and is non-greasy.
Pricey sunscreen, i would rather spend the money on air ticket.
