Magnitone Clean Sweep

Look at your face in the mirror. Go on… Be Honest! Gorgeous, isn't it?  So manly and rugged and robust and... well actually clogged with dirt and all that crap that has been in there for years. No matter how hard you scrub your handsome mug in the shower, your pores will still be clogged up with a whole load of rubbish (sebum, bacteria) and your old dead skin cells will cling to this crap, wreaking havoc on your skin texture and complexion. What you need is a manly bathroom tool to take your cleansing to the next level.  You need the Magnitone Clean Sweep facial brush.

A photo posted by T H O M 👽 (@itsth0m) 

Magnitone Clean Sweep is jam-packed with technology and cleverness. For a start the Magnitone Clean Sweep is vibro-sonic (which isn't as rude as it sounds ), meaning it features a soft brush head that vibrates at 15,000 rpm! Being charged up via USB, it is also completely waterproof meaning its super handy and you can take it into the shower to give your face the full works at pure ease.

The high-speed vibrations of the Magnitone head are designed to dislodge as much of the unwanted crap from you skin as possible. Pores are opened up to be cleaned, and beard hairs are encouraged to point straight outwards, reducing in-growing hairs and making them easier to shave. Dead skin cells are also brushed away, encouraging blood flow to the skin underneath, making you appear younger and sprightlier. Maybe!?

Coming with its own carry case (WOOP! ) the Magnitone Clean Sweep is the perfect shaving buddy. From using this, I found that even on a pretty thick stubble, it made the hairs stand up and the following shave was quicker with less irritation. I don’t think I have ever gotten as close a shave as when I use this.  But even if you're not shaving that glorious facial scruff, the brush can still be used each and every day in the shower (for just 30 seconds at a time) to exfoliate and revitalize your skin. It has a timer and it gives you a warning beep and then it turns off automatically so you don't over exfoliate. 

After just one use I noticed a significant reduction in those God-awful blackhead-clogged pores on my nose. And despite the intensity of the brush's revolutions, it certainly isn't uncomfortable. The bristles are super soft and my skin wasn’t the red in the slightest. But on the other hand, once you're used to the slight blush-inducing vibrations , it gives a pleasant facial massage.

I am massive fan of any manly bathroom gadgets that can be taken into the shower as, let's 'face' it (that was accidental I swear ), nobody likes adding another element to their morning routine just for the sake of a new gadget. I think the Magnitone is the new evolution of the traditional facial flannel or sponge.

But boy can you feel and see the results.

This would make an ideal Christmas gift for any man or even if you want to self gift a Magnitone to yourself! 

Magnitone Clean Sweep is available online here at Magnitone, Boots and LookFantastic.

*Some product(s)/content in this post may be sponsored or sent as a press sample, however all opinions and views are honest and my own, only select products that I like and want to recommend are featured on this blog. For more information, please click here.

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FOREO LUNA Play

No this isn’t a naughty toy!!! Get your mind out of the gutter! This is the exact opposite – it’s actually for cleaning. Despite its diminutive appearance (or raunchy looks ) the FOREO LUNA Play packs a fair punch when it comes to cleansing.

 The FOREO LUNA Play is the smallest and first disposable facial brush from FOREO - don't worry the battery will last for at least 100 uses. The LUNA Play has been designed for those who have a hectic lifestyle and to give anyone who has  yet to commit to a facial cleansing tool, an affordable way to see if a sonic cleanser is for them.  This is actually my first foray into cleansing tools. Here’s the low down!

Yes the FOREO LUNA Play is absolutely tiny; it’s around the size of a cotton pad. But it features all the original features of the original FOREO sonic cleansing brush. This is the first disposable brush in the FOREO line up. But alas after around 100 full uses the FOREO LUNA Play battery will eventually run out. When it does you simply recycle the brush and either replace your LUNA Play or commit to a full size FOREO brush.

At just €38 for a FOREO LUNA Play it doesn't sell for much more than your average  facial brush head; the difference is that you don't need a charger, simply pack the FOREO LUNA Play, use and go. And if you break down its cost per use – it roughly €0.04 a use – not bad I hear you say. But I would actually love it if could be charged up or even if there was a battery indicator or something I would be 100% in love with it – say you’re on holidays and after a long day in the sun and copious layers of SPF … you switch on your FOREO LUNA Play and … guess what the battery is dead. 

FOREO LUNA Play Features

• Powerful, portable, pocket sized tool
• Up to 100 uses
• T-Sonic pulsation technology will remove 99.5% of dirt and oil (based on clinical trials) plus makeup residue
• Powerful motor delivers 8,000 T-Sonic pulsations per minute dislodging impurities
• Clears away dead skin cells
• Diminishes the appearance of pores to refine skin texture
• Enhances the absorption of skincare products
• Gentle on the skin
• Ultra-hygienic silicone design is quick drying and nonporous to prevent bacteria buildup
• 35X more hygienic than nylon-bristled brushes

 As with all FOREO devices the FOREO LUNA Play is constructed from super soft silicone; the gentle texture of the silicone ensures that the skin is never at any risk of damage as the bristles are so gentle. By utilising silicone, the FOREO tools are also up to 35 times more hygienic than a regular face brush, making them ideal for all skin types including acne prone skin - it doesn’t aggravate blemishes nor further spread bacteria.

The FOREO LUNA Play relies upon T-Sonic pulsation technology meaning the whole unit physically pulses at a rate of 8,000 pulsations per minute. The gentle movements help to deeply cleanse the skin (it removes up to 99.5% of daily dirt and oil) without stripping  my skin of its natural oils, but it also exfoliates.

From the first use I have experienced noticeably softer skin and with continued use, my complexion is more even-toned and has a natural glow. It absorbs skincare such as moisturiser with a little more efficiently. It is really lovely to use and is great with all cleansing products including balms, oils, creams and gel. It gives whatever you choose an extra deep cleansing boost. 

I absolutely love my FOREO LUNA Play in black (Midnight), however, there’s also huge selection of colours to choose from. I think these are the perfect introduction to sonic cleansing.

The FOREO LUNA Play is available online at Mankind and FOREO.

* I actually won this FOREO LUNA Play from a competition from Mankind.co.uk. They are always throwing competitions and special offers over on Twitter and Instagram ... so check them out. *

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Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser

I mentioned this little bea in my Falling Into Winter | Seasonal Essentials post.

This is actually Anthony Logistics’ top seller for over ten years running. And I am going to tell you why; It’s refreshingly creamy, non-greasy, soothing, and above all exceptionally good at cleansing.

I have to admit that I was a little sceptical of the Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser. It has a non-foaming formula which I’m not accustomed to with a gel formulation. But I knew that glycolic acid works wonders for my skin. If you expect this product to foam up on your hands, then I guess you need to try other cleansers. As a matter of fact, the product is similar to gel cleanser. You can easily rub it on your hands and put it on your face without any drips and messes.

Well, what can I say?  I am in love with this bea - it really leaves my skin feeling soft and very clean, but not tight and dry (that would be the Aloe Vera!) My apprehension with anything creamy is that your face can sometimes feel a little sweaty afterwards, and I was hugely surprised. It cleanses so effectively but leaves absolutely no residue on my skin – my skin in uber clean and soothed after each use.

The Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser is formulated without any parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs and triclosan.

What’s Glycolic Acid anyhow? Well in layman terms, Glycolic Acid is a chemical exfoliator that loosens the bonds of surface dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily swept away. There’s a decent dose of Glycolic Acid – 4.9%. Because all chemical exfoliants can leave your skin a tad dry, but soothing and moisturising Aloe Vera helps to calm the skin and freshly exposed skin cells.

Finally vitamins C and A, two very powerful antioxidants, help to protect and smooth the skin. Vitamin A helps to protect and rejuvenates our skin’s natural support structure and and increase elasticity of skin. whilst Vitamin C is a fantastic brightening agent that also protects, firms skin. 

There’s no artificial fragrance but the natural Pomelo and Mandarin peel extracts give the Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser a really gorgeous citrus scent that lifts you as you get to work with it.

I’ve tried many skin-care products from the cheap brand names whom you can easily find in local drug stores to other expensive brands from high end beauty stores. This product does wonders for my skin. As you already know, I have oily skin (sometime too oily!) that is prone to acne. When I first tried this, the pores on my nose were congested and within two days; completely clear. This cleanser not only absorbs the dirt and oil on my face, but it keeps your skin super clean and blemish free.

Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser is €20.95 for a huge bottle (237ml) and is available from Mankind and  4Men.ie.

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Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser

Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish is deemed to be a cult product by the beauty industry.  It has won over a hundred awards. But is it worthy of such status? Hell yeah, it is!

Cleanse and Polish is basically a clay cleanser, suitable for all skin types. Now I’m little hesitant when a product is designed for all skin types, but I can genuinely say that Cleanse and Polish (C&P) did work for me and It’s definitely for everyone.

Liz Earle advocates that it only uses “Naturally Active Ingredients” in their products and this is why the trusty C&P is so effective. The featured moisturising ingredients are beeswax and cocoa, which are non-comodogenic, meaning C&P won’t block your pores. Here is the natural and effective ingredients that make Cleanse and Polish such an impressive product:

• Beeswax -the beeswax has skin protecting properties and helps to relieve chapped skin and it is also a natural anti-bacterial.
• Eucalyptus Essential Oil - this refreshing and cooling essential oil has decongestant properties and is used by aromatherapists to ease muscular aches and pains.
• Glycerin - a humectant (attracts water), drawing atmospheric water onto the skin to aid hydration.
• Hops Extract - this herbal extract has astringent and toning properties.
• D-panthenol - or Pro-Vitamin B5, this B vitamin is necessary for the normal functioning of the skin and has a moisturising effect. It also stimulates cellular renewal.
• Cocoa Butter - this rich, creamy butter has moisturising effects on the skin.
• Rosemary Essential Oil - has a fresh pungent aroma and is very invigorating and stimulating. The extract has beneficial antioxidant properties.
• Chamomile Essential Oil - a gentle essential oil used for soothing the skin

You apply the cleanser onto dry skin and massage in. I only use ¼ - ½ a pump; I feel I don’t need any more, as I’m just cleansing my skin. It feels amazingly rich and comforting to massage this in.  The smell is so comforting and relaxing. Now this is what I do (totally optional) – I next wet my hands and massage my face again. I feel this draws the cleanser out with any impurities and I just get a more thorough and deep cleanse. Next I use the muslin cloth provided or a face cloth and simply wipe it away.

My skin is left like silk, and especially an oily/combination skin like mine was not left shiny and greasy, but soft, smooth, hydrated and calmed. My skin afterwords felt amazing and it just glowed! My skin definitely has a reduced shine, as this is so effective at cleansing my skin but without stripping away any of its natural oils.

The product is designed to be used every day; morning and evening, but I prefer to use this as a night-time cleanse. I think that it is more suited to night-time use, as the smell and the facial message helps you unwind after a long stressful day.

I also picked up this limited edition Cleanse & Polish with Orange Flower and Chamomile, the same reliable C&P but with a gorgeous and invigorating scent. Pure bliss!

I am definitely hooked to the Cleanse & Polish simply for its amazing results.

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Starter Kit is €17 and is available here online from Liz Earle or Boots.

And yes I know there is a Men’s version; but I prefer the soothing green packaging over the dull and boring brown packaging. Anyway it’s the same product!

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser

Now this is a great gentle cleanser for both men and women. Definitely being prone to acne, I know the urge (some might say compulsion) to use harsh chemically products to help clear my skin. But believe me gentle is BEST.


So right on cue, the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser. This (in my opinion is more of a face wash than a cleanser) a gentle, ever-so-slightly-foaming cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oil and thoroughly but gently cleanses you skin. Now, I think this more suitable in the morning to freshen up your skin and remove any sweat or grime after the night. I wash my face with water and a face towel (i.e. flannel) then apply a pea-sized amount (you really don’t need a lot) of the cleanser on my hand and then massage the product into my face and neck allowing it to foam up slightly. Then I dampen my hands again under the tap and massage my face a bit, this turns the cleanser a tad milky. And finally I clean my face with the face towel.

The ingredients contain vitamin E, apricot kernel oil, avocado oil and sweet almond oil so that your skin is moisturised not stripped, all the while protecting your skin’s natural pH and oils.

I have given this cleanser a good run to test it out on my skin. I am extremely impressed with the results. My skin and complexion are clear and my face feels hydrated and soft. And it last ages, result! My skin feels better than it has in months.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser is €18.00 online at Arnotts or by phoning their store in Wicklow St, Dublin (01 670 6667)

A Collection of L’Oréal Men Expert

I was perusing the aisle of Boots and I came across the L’Oréal Men Expert range. Now I have tried a few of their products in the past and truth being told I wasn’t blown away by them. But there were a few new items there, they were half price and I said why not! Here’s what I got.

MEN EXPERT PURE POWER RED VOLCANO WASH

L'Oréal Men Expert Pure Power Volcano Wash (is a bloody mouthful) is the brand spanking  new anti-imperfections face wash; that claims to fight spots and unclog pores. I was intrigued by this; I knew that volcanic minerals are exceptional for absorbing oil (It’s a key ingredient of my absolute fav the GlamGlow SuperMud). This face wash combine’s volcanic mineral extract; which it is known for its ability to absorb excess oil, with a high concentration of the anti-bacterial spot-killing-machine Salicylic Acid to help fight the appearance of spots. It also contains Zinc; helps to reduce shine and heal any imperfections. And finally a refreshing blast of Menthol, that has a cooling effect on the skin. Skin looks purified without feeling dry. These concoctions of ingredients remove oil and dirt to unclog pores and help keep skin free from impurities.

How to Use

Dampen your face and neck with a face cloth (flannel). Next apply a pea sized amount of product onto your face and gently massage, concentrating on forehead, nose and chin (the oiliest areas of the face). Finally remove thoroughly with the face cloth.

Does It Work

I was a tad apprehensive about this; it’s a think viscous red gel but it does its job well – my skin is left clean but ever so slightly tight. As for its claims to treat acne; I can’t be sure, as I don’t have an active breakout at the minute. But this would be a dream for oily to combination skin types to maintain clear skin.

Men Expert Pure Power Red Volcano Wash is €8.39 and is available here online and in-store at Boots and Tesco.

MEN EXPERT HYDRA ENERGETIC ANTI-FATIGUE MOISTURISER

Now this one isn’t exactly new but I am really into Vitamin C at the minute and when I saw this was one of the key ingredients, I was sold! This moisturiser claims to “Fight the appearance of 5 signs of fatigued, dull-looking skin and drawn features in 1 step.” Did I mention that this contain vitamin C; which is known for its illuminating and brightening effects of skin. (For more information on exactly what Vitamin C does and how it works, check out my review of the Kiehl’s Powerful Strength LineReducing Concentrate). Caffeine acts as a stimulant to promote cutaneous micro-circulation and natural drainage in the skin, basically it jump starts your skin – increase blood flow and drainage. Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Moisturiser combines these two ingredients to give your skin a kick up the rear end into looking better!

Does It Work

This moisturiser brightens and hydrates my skin. The texture of this moisturiser is a light non-greasy gel-cream that instantly penetrates and leaves absolutely no residue on my skin. Furthermore my skin is left looking relaxed, energized and healthy. Any complaints of dry, tight or dull skin can be consigned to the past as rough skin is hydrated. Not only does it hydrate and brighten skin, it also comes with a pleasant odour. A true multi-tasking gel at it’s very best!

Men Expert Hydra Energetic Daily Moisturiser is €12.49 and is available here online and in-store at Boots and Tesco.

All Men Expert products are half price at Boots and Tesco at the minute.

Giveaway!

I’m super-excited to be able to give away a set of The House Of Man collection of L’Oréal Men Expert.

The giveaway will run until Monday 13th July and is open to ROI & UK residents only (sorry!). Simply enter using the Rafflecopter box below! And I wish you all the best of luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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