Origins skincare

[Filiboom]

I recently had an overnight bag stolen. All very annoying, but at least the face stuff I had in it was mostly finished (make-up was another matter - grrr).

Anyway, I now need to replace everything and was wondering what brand to go for. I've been a SAHM for 4yrs, but this has coincided with my return to work so we're a little less strapped for cash. I remember using Origins years ago and wondered how people rated them these days? I'm 39 and have pretty good skin, but two small boys that aren't the greatest sleepers do leave me a bit knackered looking.

Happy to hear recommendations for other brands. I've been using a mix of pretty cheap and cheerful stuff and things given as presents (like a lovely Clarins facial oil) the last few years and nothing I feel strongly enough about to repeat buy. I've realised I'm a sucker for nice smelling stuff and good packaging (and much more inclined to use it if it feels like a treat). Budget isn't unlimited by any means, but unseen to remember Origins being fairly midrange and that's about right.

Thanks very much!

[handslikecowstits]

I use the Origins Drink up mask and I think it's one of the most hydrating. I can get away with using it because I wash it off so the fragrance doesn't irritate my eyes. I can't use the rest of the range because to me it is one of the most smelly (!) and I can't tolerate it.

I'm a Clinique fan partially because none of the stuff is fragranced and if you shop around online you can get samples and see if they agree with you. Ditto Paula's Choice.

At the moment I'm using CeraVe's hydrating cleanser. It seems OK and is quite cheap.

My advice is to shop around online and get samples before committing to buying stuff.

[BubsandMoo]

I love Origins stuff, I agree most of the stuff is fragranced but personally I don't find it irritating apart from one eye cream once.

I agree the Drink Up Intensive overnight mask is yum and I use it a few times a week. I love Modern Friction scrub & Clear Improvement charcoal mask as an occasional 'detox' type treatment; Never a Dull Moment gel cleanser a few mornings a week, often in the shower, as a nice brightening citrusy wake-me-up cleanser; No Puffery eye gel for puffy eye mornings (keep a rollerball of this in my handbag kit too); also love love love Calm to your Senses which is a lavender & vanilla shower gel and my luxury relaxing shower for evenings, also use Gloomaway (grapefruit) and Incredible Spreadsble (ginger) body scrubs a few mornings a week which both smell and feel yummy. Back to skincare though worth checking out their serums, and all the Dr Weils stuff as well. Origins do a thorough mini facial for free at the counter to introduce you to their range, no obligation to buy, but book in advance. They're excellent for lots of free samples too, both at the counter and online, and the sample sizes are generous I've used a few serum/cleanser samples for week-long trips.

I think with a good skincare routine it's good to mix it up but Origins is definitely one of my go to brands. I'd say book one of their mini facials and see what you like.

[fiorentina]

When I was on maternity leave I stopped using origins as money was tighter. I've just gone back to it and my skin is looking better already. I do really rate it.

[yellowsun]

I use checks and balances cleanser, united state toner, starting over moisturiser and rose clay mask. Also modern friction, plantscription eye stuff and drink it up. I love it! Definitely get a facial from John Lewis or similar to see what suits. They are really good at giving samples.

[Filiboom]

Fantastic. Thank you all. Whilst I'm very annoyed with the theft of my bag, part of me is quite looking forward to the shopping. Hoping to have a day before I start work and planning to relive my pre-children shopping life! I've had the Origins mini-facial before, and it was lovely so looking forward to that.