Avène Cleanance Expert

I like Avène; their products are really effective and always gentle and tend to work in tandem with your skin rather than against it. This latest offering from Avène’s is very intriguing! Cleanance Expert can be used in conjunction with any acne medicines you might be using. But most importantly it can also be included in a skin regime which involves layering skincare. So this is ideal for slotting into your finely honed skincare routine, when you need a bit of SOS from spots.

When I was first tried this product, I thought that it would be something similar to my beloved La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo [+] (you can read my full review here). On first impressions, Cleanance Expert appears to be quite different though. In terms of formulation, Cleanance Expert is a light, hydrating, non-drying and lightly scented emulsion, suited to the most sensitive skins. From using Cleanance Expert, an emulsion is some sort of a fusion between a gel and a cream texture – heavier than a gel but not as heavy as a cream.

There are two ingredients in this product which really appeal to me. It contains an exfoliating agent called Xpressin, which Avène claim has the same chemical power as 6% Glycolic Acid but is far gentler on the skin. I absolutely love Glycolic Acid, it is stellar at treating breakouts by exfoliating the skin and unblocking pores but it also significantly reduces acne scarring. Because the product doesn’t contain Glycolic Acid, it has a pH level which matches that of skin, which is great. The skin’s pH is slightly acidic aka its acid mantle. The optimal pH of human skin is 5.5. When the skin’s pH level is off kilter, bacteria levels can rise or drop, resulting in an imbalance and thus breakouts.

Avène also patented an ingredient called Diolenyl, which seems ingenious. It tackles the bacteria which are the main offenders in causing acneic breakouts, but the Diolenyl only targets those specific acne-causing bacteria. It the silver bullet equivalent to acne! So it works only where and when it’s needed, and it doesn’t kill off any of the good bacteria which are beneficial to your skin.

I can categorically state that this is a fantastic product. It not an over-night miracle worker but it did sort my skin out when I had a cystic breakout. In the usual spirit of Avène skincare, this product is as super gentle as it claims to be. It greatly speeded up the healing time of that breakout but also the usual accompanying scarring.  It didn’t dry out my skin in the slightest but gave it that extra nourishment that it needed. Over extended use; I found it excellent for keeping my skin clear – in particular any pesky blackheads I would get. I love that I can reach for this in my hour of need and it fits in seamlessly with any other products I’m using. The emulsion texture makes this super hydrating but light-weight on the skin. I would actually say this would be as versatile in the winter as the summer.

Do you like the sound of Cleanance Expert? Which products do you find really effective for acne and breakouts?

Avène Cleanance Expert is €19 and is available here online at Boots and Escentual and in-store at Boots and pharmacies nationwide.

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Facial SPFs | Lightweight SPFs to Protect Your Skin All Summer Long

Looking after your skin in the summer months can be incredibly confusing.  I was talking to a dermatologist, who said it is recommended to use SPF 50 every single day from March to October.

We know we should be using SPF to protect ourselves from the sun's damaging rays, but SPFs have a stigma for being thick and heavy which can result in blocked pores and congestion. This in turn can increase the likelihood of spots and blemishes, and even aggravate acne...

It can be a real challenge to find a SPF that protects from UVA and UVB rays and have a lightweight texture - but I've made a short list of SPFs that offer broad spectrum protection without clogging the skin, whilst providing an invisible finish on the skin. 

1.      La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL UltraLight Fluid SPF50+ (€19.99)

The Anthelios is easily my favourite. I love La Roche-Posay products anyway! The  Anthelios XL Ultra Light Fluid  is the lightweight, suit-all SPF. This Ultra-Light version has an invisible finish but manages to give excellent protection. It’s quite a fluid texture, almost oily, but it does have a hydrating feel, I have oily combination skin and I found it perfect and it helped keep my t-zone shine free.

2.      Piz Buin Ultra Light Dry Touch FaceFluid SPF15 (€8.34)

This ultra-light weight SPF launched last year, this high protection sun fluid dries instantly to leave a matte finish and with no chalky residue. It's easy to apply and it even helps to remove any shininess. Using an anti-oxidant Vitamin E derivative, this Piz Buin formula helps to prevent sun damage to the skin. It even stays in place throughout the day and even when swimming in the sea, as the formula is both sweat and water resistant; it an excellent facial SPF that really does its job without any tell-tale signs you’re wearing a SPF.

3.      Avene Sun Care Very High ProtectionSun Emulsion SPF50+ (€20.99)

The Avène Very High Protection Emulsion SPF 50+ covers a broad spectrum UV protection using a combination of active ingredients. It has  photoprotective complex that offers excellent protection against UVB and also short and long UVA rays. It contains  pre-tocopheryl, a vitamin E precursor that protects the skin cells from free radical damage. The formal is rich in Avène Thermal Spring Water, which has a host skin benefits; from soothing toanti-irritating properties. The oil-regulating cucurbita pepo extract gives the skin a matte finish. This is definitely the thickest of the three, but still leaves a matte but slightly dewy finish.

All of these SPFs are super lightweight and don't break my skin out - so they are perfect for all skin types. And remember your skin may not show damage from the sun when you are young, it is really important to protect your skin when you are outside.

*Just a quick note: it is so importnat to use an SPF if you are using glycolic acid - it may make your skin sensitive to the sun*

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MAN-UP It’s Summer! | ☀️ Summer Essentials ☀️

Today I thought I would compile my Summer-Must-Haves to guide you through a summer of fun. Here are my Summer Essentials that will have you prepared for anything this summer can (and probably will J ) throw at you! 

Sunglasses are a summer staple (actually obligatory if you ask me). My favourite are these Ray-Bans. They are on trend with the Wayfarer frames but I love the twist of the slimmer sides. I think these are a cool alternative to the standard Wayfarer. Why follow the herd! Make a statement with these Ray-Bans. They are perfect for all occasions: the matt black in so transitional from formal to festival. I think these are the most flattering sunglasses, no matter your face shape. And above all they are comfortable to wear. Check them out here.

You may think that GlamGlow ThirstyMud (you can read my full review here) is more of a winter essential but it's excellent during the warmer months. It rehydrates your skin but is non greasy way - so you won't be left like an oil slick. Hydration is so important during the summer, as the sun can have drying effects on your skin. This can exasperate both acne and dry skin conditions. Thus to be looking your best use GlamGlow ThirstyMud .

Úna Brennan Super Facialist Vitamin C+ Glow Boost Skin Serum is ideal for summer usage. It is a lightweight serum with a combination of Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and a skin lightening algae extract that replenishes and gives your skin a healthy glow and appearance. Ahhh … spot-on! Just what I need for summer. You can find it here.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo +; what can I say it works! You can read all my thoughts on it here. In the humid heat of summer it keeps spots at bay and my skin clear. Yah! That = happy me J. Haha!

La Roche-Posay Serozinc is another summer necessity; it mattifies your skin – it really does banish shine! But also the Zinc Sulphate will help heal any blemishes and kill bacteria on the skins surface. You can grab a can here. And read my full review here.

Carmex Mint Moisturising Lip Balm  you can suffer from dry, chapped lips at any time of the year (the sun’s fault again). Not only does this balm heal dry, cracked lips, it also acts as a sunscreen with the added protection of SPF 15. Protect that pout!  You’ll find it here.

If you need that sun-kissed glow then I whole heartedly recommend the Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster. It gives you a subtle fool-proof sun-kissed glow. No oompa-loompa face for me! What’s not to like. You can get it here.

Vichy Ideal Soleil Mattifying Face Fluid SPF30. I like Vichy suncare – a lot! This SPF is a “dry touch” cream that has no greasy or white residue and sits well on my skin. A good, comprehensive SPF for oily combination skins. Grab yours here.

My signature summer scent is Jean Paul Gaultier Le Beau Male .This an ultra-fresh blast of minty cool aromas; perfect to offset the heat of the summer. With notes of mint, artemisia, lavender and musk – a definite masculine summer scent. Get your hands on it here.

I just thought that I would mention that your skin can get more congested in the summer to the humid weather and extra sweating (depressing yano). Therefore I recommend using a clay-based mask at least once a week to detox your skin and purge your pores of all that grossness! My two favourites are the GlamGlow SuperMud (here) and the Sanctuary Sanctuary 5min Thermal Detox Mask (here); both of these masks will have you sorted in a jiffy! Leaving you to get on with your summer.

… And finally I’ll depart with some advice. If you exfoliate your skin regularly throughout the summer, you will achieve a better tan. Not a fake one, but a real tan! So if you’re looking to keep a good colour during the summer, make sure to exfoliate as this leads to a deeper and a more even tan. By exfoliating away the dead skin cell, you are revealing fresh skin cells that can tan more easily.  But exfoliating also deepens the colour of your tan and makes it last longer. My recommendations are the Clinique Mild Clarifying Lotion (here) for your face and Sanctuary Body Scrub (here) for the body. However, don’t forget to use lashings of SPF! (see some great SPFs here) and don’t get burned.

There you have my Summer Essentials.

Enjoy your summer and make the most of it!

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Close Shave | My Shaving Routine

I don’t know about you but I have had enough of the “hipster beard”! For one thing, many don’t groom and maintain their beard correctly. But personally, you can’t beat the timeless classic … a clean shaven face.

Shaving is an important part of a man’s grooming regime and for most it’s a minefield of sensitive skin, razor burn and ingrown hairs … But fret not, I am sharing my Shaving Routine that will banishes all these snags and will leave you with the closest shave ever.

I start off my Shaving Routine by cleansing or exfoliating my face and neck. It depends on the day & my skin’s needs on which product I use. Here are my favourites:

Exfoliator: ~     Clinique for Men Face Scrub (for a thorough but gentle exfoliation) ~     Origins Never A Dull Moment (a gentle, light way to brighten your skin) ~     St Ives Blemish Fighting Face Scrub (if my skin is acting up L)

Cleanser: ~     Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser (for when my skin is behaving itself, leaves it balanced) ~     La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel (just a staple, enough said!)

Right … next I’ll apply my pre-shave oil, I’m currently really liking the King of Shaves AlphaOil. I find that applying a shave oil gives me more protection and it soften my facial hair for an easier shave, it also conditions my skin and help the razor glide for a more comfortable shave.

Next up is my shaving gel; my absolute favourite is the Nivea MenSensitive Cooling Shaving Gel. It provides a generous, soothing foam that helps cool any redness or burning that may arise from shaving.

But, my favourite part of my Shaving Routine is my razor … the Gillette Fusion ProGlide with FlexBall Technology. This razor is unequalled. You can have the best of shave oils and foams but the razor makes all the difference. It is the star of your whole grooming arsenal. The FlexBall provides the closest shave, and it doesn’t cause razor burn – you can hardly feel it against your face!

Finally to finish off my Shaving Routine, I apply a dallop of the Cliniquefor Men Post Shave Soother. An excellent after-shave soother that is jam-packed with aloe vera. I smooth this over my face and neck after shaving to take down redness, calm stinging and restore moisture. With no fragrance, oil or irritants, makes it suitable for even the most flare-prone skin.

I find that by following these steps, I get the best possible shave without any nicks or razor burn. My face is transformed into a clean shaven masterpiece and most importantly my skin is comfortable and calm.

Let me know what your shaving essentials are?

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MY TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

I recently went on a short trip to London and I thought I'd share my travel toiletry bag. I was only going for 3 days so I didn't bother to check a bag in... So I had to cram as much as I could into my 1 litre Ziploc bag. Not an easy task, I actually enjoy packing, I'm weird like that! So here's what I brought with me.

I placed my non-liquids in my Clinique travel bag that I received as a gift-with-purchase. In this I put my Gilette Fusion ProGlide Power with Flexball Technology razor and my Emma Hardie micro-fibre cloth and my toothbrush.

That was the short list; here is what I had in my Ziploc bag:

• Arm & Hammer toothpaste
• Lynx Dry Compressed Black
  
• Nivea Men Sensitive Shaving Gel
• Head & Shoulders Citrus Fresh Shampoo
• Original Source Lemon & Tea Tree Shower Gel
• Sample of Clinique for Men Post Shave Healer
  
• Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm decanted into a GoTubb
  
• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo [+] (of course)
• Origins Super Spot Remover
  
• Clinique Mild Clarifying Lotion decanted in a GoToob
  
• Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair II
  
• Indeed Labs Eyslix
  
• Sample of Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel
  
• Nuxe Reve de Miel lip balm
• Travalo with Boss Orange
  

I know this is a long list, but I felt I was justified and I don't think it's too extortionate of a list, is it?! Here is my reasoning; I was concerned about the drying effect of flying on my skin. I'm not a dry skin type but dehydration can exacerbate blemish prone skin but on top of that all the bacteria and germs that are recirculated in that dreaded airplane air, uurgh. So I carried my trusted skincare products that I knew would hydrate, heal but also keep my skin clear and blemish free. Not asking a whole lot am I?

I brought the Emma Hardie cleansing balm, as this deeply cleanses my skin – removes all impurities and blackheads but also adds a bit of nourishment to my skin. I justified bringing Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair II (the largest bottle) as I knew it would hydrate and heal my skin but it would also come to my aid if I got spotty L. I had just started using the Clinique Mild Clarifying Lotion, a salicylic acid toner, as I wanted something to gently exfoliate my skin but would a help with blemishes, so this was a no-brainer. Effaclar Duo [+] and Origins Super Spot Remover are my trusted blemish fighting duo and the Super Spot is made for travel. The Reve de Miel lip balm is ideal for traveling as it super nourishing but in a non-sticky or greasy way. I never actually used the Clinique DDM Gel (while away!) but it was handy to have with me anyway. Oh, the Travalo is a handy way to carry your aftershave without bringing a heavy bottle. And Boss Orange in my opinion is a good option for both day and night, that can cover all occasions. The rest was just my ordinary hair & body care.

I know this may seem like a lot for a guy to take on a 3 day trip but I feel it is better to be prepared, as anything can crop up ( & probs will, knowing my luck) with your skin while traveling. And I feel that with the stress of traveling, running here and there, that your skin needs extra TLC while on the move. So here's what I brought with me, what would you carry with you on a mini-holiday?

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La Roche-Posay Serozinc

Now Serozinc is a much hyped and coveted skincare product that was almost impossible to get for years, but alas, recently it more readily available to Irish skincare die-hards!! So what exactly is La Roche-Posay Serozinc?

It is a Zinc Sulphate solution mixed with the heavenly soothing La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring water that is targeted at oily, blemish-prone skin. This is an absolute God-send for blemish-prone skin, as Zinc Sulphate helps heal minor breakouts but also mattify and help regulate oiliness. But furthermore, its healing properties make it excellent for razor burn or any skin concern like dermatitis or eczema and because it's so gentle it can be even used on a baby's bottom.
I personally don't use Serozinc daily, but I do use Serozinc when I get a breakout, either large or small. I find that it helps heal my skin more quickly but also it reduces the redness, soreness and flakiness of said spots. I spritz or spray it directly on my face and let its goodness soak in. But alternatively you can apply it to a cotton pad and swipe it across your face.
Now I got my can from Escentual.com at the start of this year. So I have used Serozinc for a nearly five months and I can see how good it is, but I waited until now to write this post as you can now actually buy Serozinc IN IRELAND, That's right, in Ireland! You can pick up your little blue can from your local pharmacy that stock La Roche-Posay product or you can get it from Sam McCauley's, Boots and CH Chemists for €10.

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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo [+]

I know that La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Duo [+] has received countless reviews, but I am going to add another to the mix!!

Firstly, I should describe my skin. I have combination-normal skin but I do suffer from cystic acne. My T-zone is quite oily but my cheeks are normal (at least that's something, right?). When I first got the cystic acne, I thought there was something seriously wrong with me. Was it normal to have these HUGE RED SWOLLEN deep-under-the-skin spot that hurt so so so much? This was my first foray into the world of skincare to help cure what ailed me. I first used benzoyl peroxide but this dried out my skin and the cystic spots always seemed to rear their heads again. This led me on a quest to find other ways to tackle my cystic acne and its subsequent scarring.
Thus I found Effaclar Duo [+]. It claims were actually exactly what I was looking for.
It is specifically formulated to target the key signs of oily, blemish-prone skin.
Proven efficacy on:

• Clinically proven to correct the appearance of blemishes
• Unclogs blocked pores
• Helps to refine skin texture
• Controls the appearance of shine
• New - Fights against the appearance of marks.

Unique formulation including NEW ACTIVE INGREDIENT ProceradTM [a patented Ceramide]
Niacinamide – a powerful anti-inflammatory

Piroctone Olamine – kills off the spot causing bacteria

LHA /Salicylic Acid – gently exfoliates skin reducing blocked pores

Linoleic Acid – anti-inflammatory that hydrates and helpsaids the healing process


 
So I tried it. This was the first skincare item that I actually used properly. Now it's no miracle worker but it helps keep skin clear, reduce acne scars and most importantly it helps reduce the redness and soreness of active breakouts. I use this every day and I'm on my third tube, in like 18 months. Which makes it excellent value. At the start I did use it morning and evening but for the last year, I only use it in the mornings. The texture is a dream for men's skin, its light and absorbs instantly and there is no fragrance.

Sounds pretty impressive, right? I've definitely been loving this over the last year. I think that if you suffer from blemishes of any kind, be it from a small pimple to colossal monstrosities, that La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo [+] is a safe bet and well worth giving it a try and you can find it here for €17.99.

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