La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Eyes

I am not a big fan of eye gels, as I prefer a hydrating cream rather than a gel. However, for some reason I was drawn to this La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Eyes gel. It has quite a gel like consistency. I remember I got this because there was a phase at the beginning of summer where my undereyes were very very dehydrated. 

La Roch Posay is a well established name in skincare. The products are paraben free, fragrance free and are suitable for sensitive eyes.

I found myself using this product morning and evening. It is quite refreshing and feels hydrating. For extra freshness I used to leave it for a few hours in the fridge. I use it also just before I apply makeup. I find that it leaves the under eye area quite hydrated and moisturised. It reduces eye puffiness and the under eye concealer goes on like a dream! 

La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Eyes has Hyaluronic Acid in it so that the skin absorbs more water. It is also excellent as a moisturiser and to soothe the skin.

I went through this product rather fast. What can I say more? I will definitely stock on this during winter. It should definitely be a staple in your skincare routine too!

What is your favourite eye cream/gel or skin care product?

xoxoxo

Pocalocca

Thalgo Prodige des Océans Launch + Review

I have previously tried the Thalgo M Ceutic range a while back and I was very much impressed with the brand. Check out the post here. This time the Prodige des Océans range was launched. 

The event took place at the beautiful Radisson Hotel in Saint George's Bay. It started with a presentation on the brand Thalgo followed by a presentation on the new range. 

This range incorporates active ingredients found in the ocean which work in perfect harmony with our cellular environment. The Ocean holds exceptional revitalising active ingredients which are easily assimilated by the skin. After 4 years of research, 3 active sources - Bioactive seawater, Native Maritime Cells and Multicellular Alga were developed and incorporated in this range. The range contains 63 Marine Nutrients which are the key to youthful-looking skin. 

One of the products from the range is the Prodige des Océans Mask. It has an ultra refreshing, foaming texture with pure oxygen and Hyaluronic Acid Microspheres with the Intelligence Marine Régénérative. This complex improves skin clarity and complexion. I like to use this as a night cream just before going to sleep although it is technically a mask which you are supposed to leave only for some minutes. It leaves the skin smooth and plump and ultra soft. I find that the skin is refreshed and more radiant in the morning. I like to use this mask when I feel my skin needs a bit of a boost, when my skin is dull and dehydrated. It is suggested to use the mask around twice a week, and I think it is ideal. Once opened the top layer starts to foam up which makes the mask feel quite fresh on the skin.

I always suggest to invest in some good quality skincare. The range is a bit pricey but I strongly believe in products which are backed up by years of research, and it is always good to take care of your skin with good products.

xoxoxo

Pocalocca

Avene New Summer Products

Summer has definitely kicked in in Malta. It is blazing hot and the sun is scorching. Therefore, SPF is a must for sure! A while bag I was invited to the launch of these new products. The event started with an in-depth presentation on the brand and the science behind the new products. It was followed by some nibbles and bubbly!

This event marks the launch of the new Avene SunsiMed skin care product. It is a protection which offers you a solution perfectly adapted to skin with sun hypersensibility. 

Sunsimed contains an exclusive photoprotective complex which protects your skin against the UV rays daily. It has a photostable filter system for optimal UVB-UVA protection and a powerful antioxidant, Pre-Tocopheryl for enhanced cellular protection. Enriched in Avene Thermal Spring Water, recognized for its soothing and anti-irritating properties.

The Avene Eau Thermale thermal spring water is a life saver all year round. I love to leave it in the fridge so as to keep it cool and fresh in summer. I honestly spray it all the time even before makeup. It is suitable for sensitive skin. It can be used for a variety of purposes too such as sunburn, diaper rashes and more!

As you all know sunscreen is a must in summer, and I am always looking for good ones. Ones which do not take ages to sink in and ones which do not leave the skin sticky. 

The Avene Eau Thermale SPF  Spray sunscreen is just the ideal sunscreen. I like that it is in a spray form and that it doesn't really leave the skin sticky. It has a high SPF of 50 which is the recommended level. It has a broad spectrum of protection and is photostable and water resistant which means that it offers protection for several hours. Keep in mind that sunscreen should be applied should be applied multiple times during the day. It is also silicone free too.

xoxoxo

Pocalocca

Imedeen Oral Skincare Journey - #1

We are constantly being bombarded by the latest skincare which most of the times involves a cream. However, last week we were introduced to a new different concept. Oral skincare.  Imedeen supplements are designed for different age groups and are aimed to help combat aging from within. These tablets can be taken as extra supplements with no side affects associated. However, always consult with your doctor if you are pregnant or on specific medications. 

A couple of weeks back we were introduced to Imedeen in a Launch which took place in Palazzo De Piro in Mdina. We were presented with the science behind the brand and its products while sipping some sparkling rose and nibbling on some canapes.

There are basically 3 ranges available in Malta, in local pharmacies.  

 1. Imedeen Derma One

This range is aimed for the 25+ which is when the first signs of ageing appear. These are mainly aimed for better hydration and radiance. These tablets work in the deep dermal layer where the creams do not reach.  This range features the exclusive Marine Complex, vitamin C and zinc, which protect the cells from oxidative stress and supports normal collagen formation and helps maintain healthy skin.  When taking 2 tablets daily, skin quality is improved, radiance is increased and moisture balance is improved making the skin on face and body feel smoother, softer and more supple.  

2. Imedeen Time Perfection 

This range is aimed for people aged 40 and above. It helps combat the visible signs of aging. It is made up of a Marine Complex which is rich in proteins and polysaccharide complexes which are naturally found in the skin's supporting tissues. This is the LycoPhenoGS Forte complex which is made up of lycopen, which is derived from non genetically modified tomatoes, grape seed extract, vitamin C and Zinc.  When taking 2 tablets daily, the skin's quality and moisture balance is improved making the skin softer, smoother and more supple. The cells are protected from oxidative stress. The tablets will also contribute to the normal formation of collagen.  

3. Imedeen Prime Renewal

This range is aimed for people of 50 years of age. When taking 4 daily, the tablets help combat the effects of ageing that occur around menopause, when the skin looses its moisture and becomes more vulnerable to free radical damage and age spots. Moreover, fine lines become deeper as the skin looses the underlying fat.   The range features the exclusive Marine Complex with zinc and the advanced protein complex ViTea which is a blend of white tea, lycopene, grape seed extract, Vitamin C and E. Chamomile has been added to the evening tablets.  These tablets maintain the skin's firmness and contribute to the normal collagen formation making the skin softer, smoother and more supple whilst reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They also improve the quality of the skin and moisture balance while protecting the cells from oxidative stress. 

Me and Lara from Every Beauty Addict's Bible were cordially invited to a skin analysis. You can view a short demonstration of the procedure here. The specialist, Allison, explained how the procedure is carried out with an ultrasound machine analyser.

From the analysis my skin density was around the 30% which in all fairness is a bit low. This is mainly attributed to dehydration and stress as well.

In the above pictures, the cross in the red area shows my skin density. In the bottom picture, the brown spots indicate the amount of collagen present in the skin.

In a months time I am to perform another skin analysis to see any improvements in the skin's collagen. It is advised to take Imedeen for a minimum of 90 days. Having said that, visible signs can be seen after only one month. This is backed up by clinical studies which show such results as can seen below.

I am so excited for the next update as I this is quite of a new concept which I am quite intrigued to try. 

I shall see you in a months time with an update!

xoxoxo

Pocalocca

PS. I was provided with one months supply to try out, for PR purposes, which I am going to continue for the upcoming months. However, as always, I will give my honest and unbiased opinions.

Elemis Launch and Elemis Pro Collagen Cleansing Balm Review

Elemis is : 

"A luxury British skincare and spa brand that delivers pioneering clinically trialed therapies and products for face and body"

A while back I was cordially invited to the newly launched brand - Elemis. Elemis is a combination of powerful natural ingredients and cutting-edge technology together with proven clinical trials to produce the most influential anti-aging skincare products.

(photos by Noel Fenech - Check out Elemis Facebook Page)

Whilst enjoying a really relaxing hand scrub and massage (and a glass of prosecco haha) I was talked through the vast array of products offered by Elemis.

One of the products which I got to take home with me is the Elemis Pro Collagen Balm. Here is my review on the product.

"This powerful, deep cleansing balm dissolves make-up, daily grime and pollutants. Luxurious Rose and Mimosa waxes are infused with nourishing Elderberry, Starflower and Optimega™ oils and supercharged with anti-ageing algae, Padina Pavonica.

Skin is intensely cleansed, nourished and renewed for a glowing complexion.

APPLICATION STEPS

Warm into the palms and then massage over the face, neck and décolleté with light circular massage movements. Moisten fingertips and continue to massage.

Remove with a warm, damp cotton cleansing cloth. For an intensely nourishing treatment, you can also use this product as a facial mask.

Apply a teaspoon size amount to the face, neck and décolleté massaging gently with fingertips. Relax for 10 minutes, then hold a warm, damp cleansing cloth over the skin, practise abdominal breathing and inhale the sensorial aroma.

Gently wipe away. For maximum absorption and deep cleansing enjoy whilst in a warm bath.

Balm may melt when warm but re-sets perfectly when cooled. Avoid contact with eyes.

THERAPIST TIP

This is an exceptional, multi-functional product. Perfect to use on a daily basis as a deep cleansing balm or weekly as a nourishing facial mask."

Information obtained from Elemis Website

To be honest with you this product scared me a bit as it is a balm made up with a bunch of oils and I have quite combination to oily skin so I wasn't thinking that this might actually work out for me.

And let me tell you, it just works perfectly! Not only it removes all the gunk that there is on the face but it does so without leaving the skin dry or anything. On the contrary, I find my skin more hydrated and more radiant. 

As mentioned the product is made up of an array of oils which give the balm quite a fragrance. It is not overwhelming by any means, it just smells of spas and spa products which I find quite relaxing.

I do not really use it for removing makeup as I use other products for that. But I have been using this day and night and if you have never tried anything from Elemis, try this one!

xoxoxo

Pocalocca

SkinCeuticals Products for 2016

A while ago I joined Lara from Every Beauty Addict’s Bible for the launch of new SkinCeuticals products which in all fairness, are quite new to me.

This range is all about anti-oxidant skincare and during the launch the special guest speaker Ms. Jennifer Bedran, who is the SkinCeuticals’ Skin Education Expert, talked us through these new additions to the collection. This brand combines medical procedures with premium products for the optimum skincare benefits.

Image obtained from SkinCeuticals

Three new products were launched. Also a so called ‘lunch break’ Peel treatment was also introduced. We also had a live demonstration by Ms. Bedran herself.

1.    Metacell Renewal B3.

Image obtained from SkinCeuticals

Metacell Renewal B3 utilizes a patent-pending aqueous emulsion to deliver a high concentration of vitamin B3 to address early signs of aging caused by sunlight or photo-aging. This emulsion improves these early signs of photo-aging by increasing cell turnover to resurface skin, help re-clarify and even out the skin tone. Ultimately it improves the appearance of wrinkles and surface elasticity.

2.    Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2.

Image obtained from SkinCeuticals

Loss of lipids which are essential compounds in the skin’s surface, occur in aging skin. This will affect the skin’s barrier resulting in aging as the skin in unable to repair itself.

Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is an anti-aging cream with a unique 2:4:2 cholesterol-dominant ratio to help restore skin's external barrier while nourishing aging skin for improvement in signs of accelerated aging, such as dry and rough skin, laxity and loss of fullness.

3.    Phloretin CF Gel.

Image obtained from SkinCeuticals

Phloretin CF Gel is a new, powerful serum-in-a-gel antioxidant featuring a patented combination of 2% Phloretin, 10% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic Acid), and 0.5% Ferulic Acid to neutralize free radicals induced by environmental stressors such as UVA/UVB and pollution which may lead to visible signs of accelerated skin aging. This powerful gel reduces hyperpigmentation and accelerates cell-renewal. Its formula makes it ideal for normal to combination skin and non-serum users.

As mentioned we had a demonstration about the new ‘lunch break’ peel. It is referred to as so as it literally does not take more than 30 minutes to complete. The results are instant: brighter and more even skin without any redness or irritation.

The above mentioned products along with the Gel Peel are now available exclusively from Persona in Ta’ Xbiex.

For more information check out SkinCeuticals Page.

xoxoxo
Pocalocca

Thalgo M-Ceutic Launch

A couple of weeks ago I attended a seminar given by Thalgo. It was all about the launch of the new M-Ceutic range.There is a whole lot of science behind this range which let me just say, I was sucked in all of it. 

So this range is aimed for those people who have problematic skin, skin which is prone to ageing, enlarged pores and blemishes. The M-Ceutic range is the first Cosmeceutical skincare range which contains the patented Mesolift Marine. It delivers essential nutrients to the skin to maximise the cells' metabolism.

1. Pro-Regulator Make Up Remover

This makeup remover is a very unique blend of gel and oil which removes all the makeup and sebum without drying the skin. It restores the normal sebum production and is formulated with a variety of oils such as hazelnut oil and grape seed oil amongst others which strengthens and protects and sooth the skin. It has a fresh scent of green leaves, orange, neroli and white musk.

2. Pro-Renewal Cleanser

This cleanser cleanses and purifies the skin. It contains Papain/Salicylic acids which are used to gently exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.  It balances and brightens the skin. This cleanser can be used everyday and leaves the skin feeling fresh without it feeling dry or dehydrated.

3. Normalizer Cream-Serum

This Serum regulates sebum production using Omega 6 amongst others. Neo-Skin (6%) helps to renew the skin. This serum contains Biospheres filled with Marine Mesolift (3%) which maximises tissue saturation. It tightens pores and reduces the imperfections to make the skin clearer and smoother.

4. Resurfacer Cream-Serum

This is a potent cream serum which improves the skin drastically. It contains Marine Mesolift which corrects skin irregularities and reduces residucal marks while evening out the skin making it more radiant. 

5. Intensive Peel

This intensive enzymatic and chemical peel improves this the skin in 7 days. It reduces roughness to give the skin a more refined, clear and even texture. It corrects blemishes and irregularities and tightens pores. This peel is made of Papain and Ascorbic Acid which are excellent skin exfoliants.

6. Detox Regenerator

This product eliminates skin toxins while increasing the cells metabolism. It is highly concentrated in Marine Mesolift which eliminates skin impurities to give a more plump and radiant skin.

I then got to try some of the products mentioned above. The Discovery kit contains the Pro-Renewal Cleanser, the Detox Regenerator and the Resurfacer Cream-Serum. I am not going to lie but I am just going to say that I felt my skin saying a big THANK YOU when I started using these products. Let's just say I have quite oily skin and several blemishes and pimple scars. My skin feels balanced when I use the cleanser. It just feels comfortable and looks much more even and radiant! The Detox Regenerator is quite wonderful. I wish I had more to try because I could notice that it this wonders to my skin. It just absorbed the product and was so comfortable and radiant. 

The Resurfacer Cream-Serum might scare people a bit in thinking that it is a serum and that it will leave the skin shiny and what not which is not the case. I feel like my sebum production is just under control and that my face is neither oily nor dry. It just feels comfortable. 

Ps. Check Thalgo Malta for more information.

xoxoxo

Pocalocca

Lierac Coherence L. IR Day and Night Lifting Cream Review

The reason why I have been absent for quite a while is pretty simple. I was just enjoying summer and I know that if I am committed to something I should stick to it. However, I work on a shift basis and some times on my off days all I want to do is to go out and have fun. So, sorry for the delays :) Now, on to the review.


I don't have any wrinkles so far! Thank God. But there again I am still 23 so I am not expecting to have any yet. But I like to take care of my skin not excessively but basic skincare regimes and then using one or two 'special' creams. I don't go to do facials that often and in my life I have only done 1 facial which felt quite good actually. But I prefer taking care of my own skin myself.

Months back I attended a Lierac event and in this event we were given some goodies to try out. One of them was this Coherence L.IR Day and Night Lifting Cream. It claims to redefine the oval shape of th face, firms the skin and diminishes the appearance of wrinkles. If I'm not picky on anything I am very picky on my night creams. Let's just say that this is one of my favourite ones.

First of all, it has this subtle fragrance which I cannot get over with and I cannot figure out what it is. But secondly, this night cream doesn't leave my skin greasy in the morning. I find that it is quickly absorbed in the skin. After using it my skin feels very mositurised and sort of plumped as well. Now as I said I cannot say that it really diminished my wrinkles as I don't have any. However, my skin felt really comfortable with it and it felt smooth and not tight. I have also used it in the morning and it works as fine. 

Lierac suggests using it in the following manner:

"Lightly apply to the forehead, cheeks and chin from the middle of the face working towards the exterior, then descend the median line until your neck, not forgetting above and below the lips. Lastly, press lightly with flat hands, separate your fingers stretching them gently towards the temples towards the hairline."

My final thoughts? I would give the cream a go if you are looking into trying anti aging cream! Moreover it is never too late to start taking care of your skin. Check the link Lierac Malta Website to know where you can get the products from in Malta. 

Hope that Review helped!

xoxoxo

Pocalocca

Lierac Mesolift Serum Review

Way back I was invited for an event organised by Pharma MT about the Lierac Skin Care Range.

I have heard of the Lierac brand before but I never had products from the brand. So, in the event which you can check HERE, we were given a couple (which are actually very generous in size) of products to try out.

I was trying several products and it  was until a couple of months ago which I actually got to try this product out.

I also wanted to finish the product up before reviewing it. So, here it is.

This is a very good serum and I can say that it is the perfect serum which will probably be suitable for most skin types, at least it was perfect for my combination skin. It has a gelish serum consistency which doesn't make the product oily or shiny or anything.

It is a serum which is packed with Super Vitamins - 15% of the Medolift cocktail which is basically a radiance cocktail which contains blood orange extract which is suitable for all types of skin and all ages and all seasons. 

So, this Mesolift range is all about Radiance. Lack of radiance is brought about by lack of vitamins and minerals and general fatigue. The skin will appear dull, toneless and will feel dehydrated. Mesolift contains a cocktail of 5 vitamins, 6 minerals and hyaluronic acid to invigorate the skin deep down. Therefore, it is  a complete fitness regime for the skin.

Information retrieved from Lierac.com

Check also their Facebook Page HERE.

Just to recap. I used this skin serum throughout the winter months and it was a skin saver. I can get quite tanned in summer. However, I find that in winter my skin is quite dull and pale and blah looking. I used it mostly during the night so that in the morning my skin looked much brighter and fresh. I believe you can use it in the morning as well  which I did a couple of times.

Anyways, I loved this serum  and I really like to try other products from the Lierac brand. Have you tried any products? Let me know below

xoxox
Pocalocca

Lierac Event

Earlier this year there was the official launch of the Lierac skin care range and for some reason or another I didn't attend. I don't remember why. Anyways, last week I was invited to the Lierac Event organised by Pharma MT which featured an overview of the vast range of their products along with personalised skin analysis.

I will start by a brief introduction on the brand.

"LIERAC laboratories were created in 1975 and they imposed their expertise within just a few years. The rigorous efficiency of their formulas combined with the "French" charm makes each one of their products a delights for like senses. 

LIERAC know-how lies in its founding principles: medical expertise, scientific credibility, and rigorous ethics. Each creation of the brand has been guided by this trio since its origin.

LIERAC accompanies you day after day to help you feel your best both in beauty and in sensation of wellness, and to help you remain at the top."

You can find more information on their website here. Below are some of the photos of the event along with a very nice goodie bag which involved a full size product and some generous skincare items.

The gorgeous bloggers:
Marija from all things lady
me
Martina from all things fabulous
Lara from beauty addicts bible
Elle from beauty she wrote

I learnt that this is a Dhalia! Never seen such a beautiful flower.

Until next post!

xoxoxo

Pocalocca