Clarisonic Mia 2: One Week Update

If any of you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you may have seen that I invested in a Clarisonic last week. I have been contemplating getting one for about two or three years now. I've heard amazing things about the cleansing tool from bloggers and YouTubers worldwide. The reason I hadnt invested in one sooner was down to the many doubts I had about the product. It is quite pricey so was it going to be worth the money? I had never used a cleansing brush. Was it going to be harsh? Would it damage my skin? My skin wasn't overly bad so did I really need it? I realised the only way I could answer these questions was to try it out for myself. 

Now, for those who don't know what the Clarisonic is, let me explain. The Clarisonic is a cleansing brush that claims to cleanse the skin six times better than hands alone. The brush uses a sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to deeply cleanse the skin. Clarisonic promise to transform your skin and even have a 90 day money guarantee. I like a company that are confident and can stand behind products that they really believe in. Clarisonic have a number of brushes to choose from; Mia, Mia 2, Aria, the Plus, the Pro and the new Pedi (for feet). 

I opted for the Mia 2. It's small and compact and easy to travel with. You have a choice of two speeds. Plus it was €50 cheaper than the Aria. I had watched a review on YouTube and it said it was a lot easier to use and handle due to the size. I felt it suited me perfectly. The Mia 2 also came in an array of colours to choose from which I liked. I chose the pink model and paid a total of €149 in Sephora, Spain. This included the device itself, a sensitive brush head, a protective travel case, a sample size of their Refreshing Gel Cleanser and a charger. I compared prices elsewhere and the Mia 2 seems to be €149 everywhere whether it be euros, pounds or dollars.

So over a week ago before I started using the Clarisonic my skin was good, and when I say good I mean nothing special. I have combination skin with an oily nose and chin, normal cheeks and I am quite dehydrated on my forehead and around my eyes. I have quite large pores on my nose and cheeks but very rarely would get blackheads. My pores usually look clean. I don't really get spots anywhere except around my chin and mouth. I have been using my Dermalogica Skin Kit for the past few months and my skin is a lot better than it use to be but I was hoping with my new Clarisonic, it would look its very best. To say I could not wait to use it was an understatement. I was so excited! Let's bare in mind I am a skin FREAK! 

The night finally came and I got to use the Clarisonic for the first time. I decided to use my Dermalogica Gentle Cleansing Gel with it as it has been what I have been using and I knew the Mia 2 required a cleanser that would foam with the brush. You must wet the brush before use and then with a limp wrist, move the brush in light circular motions. You are expected to spend 20 seconds on your nose and chin, 20 seconds on your forehead and 10 seconds on each cheek. The Mia 2 has a Timer which indicates when to move on. Honestly, when I first started using the Clarisonic I felt it to be quite rough and sore on my skin. I started to panic a little thinking did I just spend €149 on something which is going to tear my skin to bits. Worry not! I don't know if the brush was a bit stiff or if I was putting too much pressure on my face but it doesn't feel half as rough now. Despite the horrible feeling instantly, after my first use, my skin looked bright and healthy, my pores looked smaller and my face was smooth and soft. I couldn't believe it. I continued to use my Clarisonic morning and night (twice daily as recommended) happily going without make-up to show off my skin. 

I had heard of a lot of people going through the so called 'purging phase'. This sometimes occurs the first week or two after starting to use the Clarisonic. It's down to all the impurities, dirt and oil being pushed out of your skin causing you to break out. It doesn't happen to everyone and I thought I was getting away with it until a few days ago. I woke up with the biggest, sorest spot on the side of my mouth. I can't ever remember getting anything like this one my face. This was huge. Thankfully, it started to go down after a couple of days but at that stage I had broken out even more. I had a spot on my cheek where I never ever get spots and a few on my chin. If there was anywhere I was going to break out I knew it would be my chin. Strangely enough they aren't coming up to anything. They're just small bumps that are making an appearance and disappearing quite quickly. For the first time ever, I actually looked if I had mild acne on the right side of my face. I have also noticed some blackheads on my nose which I rarely get. I'm putting it down to the Clarisonic pushing all the gunk out. I'm really just hoping that it also gets rid of them eventually. 

 

On a more positive note, I have noticed a big change in the texture of my skin. Above I mentioned that my forehead was quite dehydrated. It consisted of fine lines, small bumps and a thick looking texture. I tried hydrating masks and exfoliating but nothing worked until I started using my Clarisonic. The skin on my forehead looks so much smoother than before. The small bumps are almost completely gone and the dehydration lines have vanished. I also used to get tiny blackheads in the crease of my chin which have dramatically decreased. I can't believe it and I'm really hoping that the results continue and these spots disappear FAST!

I wore a full face of make-up the other night since I started using the Clarisonic. Removing my make-up was going to be the true test for my Mia 2. I didn't want my brush head to be covered in foundation so firstly, I used some cotton pads and the Garnier Micellar Water to remove most of the make-up then I went in with my Clarisonic and cleanser. After patting my face dry, I always tone and more often than not, I see my make-up hasn't been thoroughly removed. The evidence is left on the cotton pad. Your face may look clean but god only knows how much make-up and dirt is trapped in those pores. After the use of my Clarisonic, the cotton pad was clean. Success! I was left feeling confident that I wouldn't be going to bed with any make-up left on my face and for someone who never goes to bed with their make-up on, this makes the job so much easier.

I have only been using the Clarisonic Mia 2 a little over a week. It is still early days and too soon to be giving a full review. I'm not 100% convinced this is good for my skin. Only time will tell. I'm not giving up just yet. I just thought it would be best to keep you up to date as I go along rather than trying to remember each week for a full review in a month or two. I'm excited to see how my skin looks in a few weeks. Stay tuned to the blog and I will have more updates on using my Clarisonic. For now, thanks so much for reading and if you have any questions don't be afraid to get in touch through one of the links below. Mwah!

Holly X

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Brand Review: Dermalogica Normal/Dry Skin Kit

Dermalogica is one of the leading skincare brands worldwide among both consumers and professionals and I can understand why. A couple of months ago I ran out of everything all at once; cleanser, toner, moisturizer and eye cream. My plan was to go to Boots and pick up something new in Clinique or Elizabeth Arden as I was willing to invest a little more into my products. I was at the Brow Boutique getting my HD Brows done when I spotted these Dermalogica skin kits. I noticed this small box which included everything I needed and MORE! I asked the beautician, out of curiosity, about the Dermalogica brand and the products and she replied 'You will never use anything else again'. The great thing about the skin kits is that they're available for every skin type. It isn't a one size fits all. Everyone's skin is different and the same ingredients and form (cream, gel, milk, etc.) don't suit everyone. 

My skin can be quite dehydrated on my forehead and around my eyes but is normal elsewhere with a bit of oiliness on my chin. The beautician recommended the Normal/Dry skin kit for me as I'm not dry all over. With use of the cleanser, toner, moisturiser, cream exfoliant and eye cream, Dermalogica claim to hydrate, balance and restore the skin. The kit also came with two sachets; one of the Dermalogica PreCleanse and Skin Hydrating Masque. The bottles are travel size and are supposed to last for 30 days but I was told I could make them last a lot longer using small quantities of each.  I could not wait to get home and give them a try.

PreCleanse

This stuff is LETHAL (in a good way)! It literally melts any make-up, sunscreen, dirt or oil based debris off your face. I have never ever removed my make-up (including eye make-up) with such ease. Instantly, my make-up started to slide everywhere then once mixed with water it turned into a dirty, milky mixture. One rinse and nearly everything is gone. I have never experienced anything like it. I definitely plan on purchasing the full sized product because this makes the first part of your double cleanse a hell of a lot easier. I am yet to try this with waterproof mascara .. That could be the true test.

Special Cleansing Gel

I haven't used a gel cleanser in years so I didn't know what to expect. It lathers into a foam when mixed with water (like shampoo) and feels really nice and gentle. Sometimes with gel cleansers you'll find yourself being left with sticky residue on your skin but this isn't the case with Special Cleansing Gel.  When rinsed off my skin is left feeling squeeky clean and looking fresh.  My complexion instantly looks evened out and redness is reduced. Usually, my skin is crying out for some moisturiser but for once it is not left feeling tight or dry.

Multi-Active Toner

Firstly, I love how it comes as a spray. After you dry your face following your cleanse, spritz this on your face. It feels so lovely! It takes a few seconds to dry in but it's so refreshing and hydrating. Pores look smaller and skin tone is evened out. It also claims to prep the skin for moisture absorption which means the moisturiser applied after will penetrate better into the skin giving you the full benefits. The one bad thing about the Multi-Active Toner is the chemical-like smell, which doesn't bother me one bit but I know it may affect some people.

Gentle Cream Exfoliant

This is such a great product for dehydrated skin like mine and I can imagine it also being suited to sensitive skin. I tried a cream exfoliant for the first time during my year at college. I had a facial module every Friday and we were trained up on Matis products. I used the Matis Peeling Cream which is a non-abrasive exfoliant and works enzymatically. The Dermalogica Cream Exfoliant is very similar but not quite as drying. For those of you that don't understand, there are no exfoliating beads. You put this cream on a freshly cleansed face and leave it to work for 10-15 mins. The skin is left feeling smoother with skin texture being improved. Cell renewal is increased and dead skin cells start to shed. I have only used this product a couple of times since I bought the kits as I only exfoliate 1-2 times a week but I really like it and will continue to use it as part of my skincare routine.

Skin Hydrating Masque

I looove hydrating masks so I was looking forward to trying this. If, like myself, you suffer from dehydrated skin then this is what you need. Certain face masks can suck all the moisture and oil from your skin but this does the complete opposite and hydrates the skin. It contains 'calming botanicals and antioxidant vitamins' which restore moisture to dehydrated, dry or stressed skin. I use this or my Matis Hydrating mask 1-2 times a week and and dehydration lines or tightness is gone. This one in particular is so refreshing, like many of the Dermalogica products, and just adds to the amazing results their products give.

Intensive Eye Repair

An eye cream is a MUST ! I always use an eye cream as the skin around my eyes is very dehydrated (from wearing make-up and rubbing). An eye cream can also help with fine lines and wrinkles. I like intense eye creams and this does have 'intensive' in the name but unfortunately I didn't find it intensive enough. To be honest, it was just average and the only thing from the whole kit that I will replace with something else. I'll admit it does its job and relieves the tight dry feeling but I like something a little more intense and soothing. For now, I'm using my Ogra Avacado Eye Cream which I love!

Skin Smoothing Cream

The final step of my skin routine; MOISTURISE! We have come to the end where we lock in all that moisture and soothe and hydrate the skin. That is exactly what this moisturiser does as well as smoothing out the texture. It feels so light on my face and doesn't leave a greasy residue. It dries nearly instantly and leaves a matte finish.

Overall, I am over the moon with the results from the Dermalogica products. I feel they suit my skin perfectly. I was going through a bad phase with my skin as I was stressed out and tired. With the lack of sleep and bad diet, it was showing on my face. I was being left with marks from spots and they were not going away but now I'm using the Dermalogica Skin Kit I have everything I need. I love wearing no make-up when my skin is looking so good. I have been talking non-stop about the Dermalogica brand and it, as well as Ogra Skincare, is one of my new favourites. I would highly recommend the Skin Kits to anyone. It is even said to be great for acne. Even though the bottles are quite small, I've got a good 2 months out of them with some cleanser and exfoliant still left. A little really goes a long way with these products.

I bought the Normal/Dry Skin Kit from the Brow Boutique in Swords Pavillions for €33.50. Dermalogica is sold nationwide in numerous salons as well as online. I will be holding a GIVEAWAY on my Facebook page soon so keep an eye out for a chance to win a Dermalogica Skin Kit. Mwah!

Holly X

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Daily Skincare Routine

I want to share my skin routine with you. Recently, I have become obsessed with looking after my skin. I have been trying and testing so many products to find the ones that suit my skin best. The products I use don't vary much from day to night but I do like to change my routine up every now and then. I will keep you updated if anything changes.

Morning Routine

1. Cleanse: I start off by rinsing my face with luke warm water. I, then, grab my L'oreal 'Skin Perfection' Cleansing and Perfecting Milk. I rub this all over my face in circular motions using my fingertips. I use a wet facecloth to remove my cleanser.

L'oreal Skin Perfection Cleansing and Perfecting Milk (R.R.P. €6.80)

2. Tone: Next I like to use a toner. Recently, I have been using Garnier's Softening Toner for Normal to Dry Skin. I am a big fan of Garnier products and I really like this toner. It smells AMAZING! But also leaves my skin feeling soft and pores looking tighter. I always apply the Garnier Softening Toner with wet cotton wool. Cold water is also said to tone and tighten the skin so I always splash my face before patting dry with a clean towel.

Garnier Softening Toner for Normal to Dry Skin (€4.49)

3. Moisturize: If I had to pick one thing to bring to a desert island it would be moisturizer. I cannot stand that tight, dry feeling that I get when I don't moisturize. I have been trying Origin's 'Make A Difference Plus+' Rejuvenating Moisturizer (I have been robbing it from my sister. Sssshhh!) and I love it! It makes my skin feel so soft and hydrated. It also smells sooo nice! I actually think it is the best moisturizer I have ever used. Would definitely recommend especially to those with dry skin. The Origin's brand use natural ingredients which is always a plus for me.

Origins 'Make A Difference Plus+' Rejuvenating Moisturizer (€45)

4. Eye Cream: I have started using The Body Shop's Nutriganics Soothing Eye Cream. I apply a small amount to the under eye area. This is a really lightweight cream with 98% of the ingredients being of natural origin.

The Body Shop Nutriganics Soothing Eye Cream (€19.99)

5. SPF.: Research shows that those who wear SPF everyday (even when the sun ain't shining) have better and younger looking skin. I have jumped on the bandwagon and have decided to commit myself to wearing SPF everyday I go outside. I chose the La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF50+ Ultra Light Fluid (Tinted). It is non-comedogenic meaning it won't clog pores or cause break outs unlike most suncreams. I will warn you though the tint is almost invisible so I wouldn't want you to expect to look like a golden goddess after applying this. 

La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF50+ Ultra Light Fluid (Tinted) (€19.99)

Night Time Routine

I use all the products above but I do have some alternatives that I switch to every now and then.

1. Make-Up Removal: Sometimes I use my L'oreal 'Skin Perfection' Cleansing and Perfecting Milk along with wet cotton wool but my favourite way to remove my make-up is using Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. I scoop a small amount out of the tub and let it melt in my hands. I , then, rub it all over my face (Be aware coconut oil and make up mixed together look like a slimey mess). I use wet cotton wool to wipe my make-up away. I repeat this process until all my make-up has been removed.

Coconut Oil (Prices vary depending on brand)

2. Cleanse: After using Coconut Oil, I cleanse with my L'oreal Cleansing Milk to remove any residue from the Coconut Oil. 

3. Tone: I use my Garnier Softening Toner (As Above) and a splash of cold water.

4. Moisturize: I start off with my Certified Organic Trilogy Rosehip Oil to hydrate deep down in the skin. I use 2-3 drops onto my hand and pat it onto my face (For full review click here). 

Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil (€19.99)

I follow with the Origin's Rejuvenating Moisturizer and The Body Shop's Nutriganic Soothing Eye Cream (As Above).

So that's it! That's what my skincare routine involves. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed. Mwah!

Holly X

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