Meet the Other Phone. Flexible and made to last.

Meet the Other Phone.
Flexible and made to last.

Buy now

Please or to access all these features

Style and beauty

Looking for style advice? Chat all about it here. For the latest discounts on fashion and beauty, sign up for Mumsnet Moneysaver emails.

🐌 Fantastic Skincare: Shitting About All Day Discussing Co Dictionary

993 replies

botemp · 08/06/2019 19:24

Thread 1 Thread 2 Thread 3 Thread 4 Thread 5 Thread 6 Thread 7 Thread 8 Thread 9 Thread 10
Thread 11 Thread 12 Thread 13 Thread 14 Thread 15 Thread 16 Thread 17 Thread 18

For those who are taking a peek and wondering what this all about, we mostly discuss a bit of advanced skincare here with a perspective of seeking out the right ingredients (rather than the latest new shiny product and all its empty promises) for our particular skin needs. Distinguishing the acid toners from the actives whilst avoiding the truly unimpressive and harmful ingredients with a hope to achieve a bit of anti-ageing, alleviate irritation and sensitivities with some idle chat in between. Newcomers are always welcome but please note the following:

Questions and asking for help on this thread is encouraged, however, we can’t give you a specific routine to follow and hope it works out for the best. There are no overnight miracles in skincare whether it be in the form of products or techniques. It’s about perseverance, understanding your skin, assessing its needs and responding to that in a diligent manner.

These threads were created to help those who want to learn for themselves. We’re a group of interested and invested skincare nuts happy to offer tea and sympathy and dole out advice. Everyone’s journey with skincare is different, what is universal and binds us is that through actually learning about the different active ingredients it helps us get to know our skin and help us adapt as it will change many times throughout our lives - with seasons, hormonal changes, ageing, genetics etc. It's in everyone's best interests to get to know their skin and to keep reviewing those changes with the confidence that comes from the gathered knowledge here. We really encourage you to spend the time reading through previous threads and linked info sheets that the many contributors have taken the trouble to share.

By no means are we experts, we're only a bunch of amateurs that can only respond by suggesting what we would do in your place, for any severe conditions please seek out professional help.

Ahem, and finally a little note on spending. I'm well aware these threads cause many to reach for their wallets and spend with wild abandon. There can sometimes be a bit of a frenzy surrounding the excitement around a newly discovered product or on the back of great improvements when someone reports back. This is all great, it doesn't however, mean everything that's a sudden miracle for one will be it for you. Usually, it's a light bulb moment for connecting the right skincare ingredient with an individual experiencing a specific problem. Take your time to mull over decisions and question whether it's right for you too. Skincare is highly individual, it's a slow game that should cost mostly in patience, input, education, and perseverance. Please don't make it cost you financially needlessly.

I am very slowly working on consolidating the gathered information from previous threads into easier to read formats but it’s slow going. I would suggest reading thread 1 and at the very least the following info sheets (provided they apply to you):

Where to Start

Basics of an Actives Routine

Skin Types vs. Skin Conditions Info Sheet

Anti-Ageing Info sheet

Adult Acne Info Sheet

Understanding Which Sunscreen(s) to Buy

Do I Really Need to Wear Sunscreen Every Single Day of the Year?

A Damaged Skin Barrier - Now What?

NEW SERIES:

So You Want To Buy A Retinoid - A Guide

JUNE 2019: Autocorrect is our main source of entertainment these days Wink at least our snouts are looking good 🐽

OP posts:
Thread gallery
41
BlueSkyAtChristmas · 11/12/2019 23:27

Thanks everyone for the feedback about Frezyderm. It sounds like the tinted version is going to be too dark for me in winter so I’ll order the original version. If I’m going out in full sunshine I’ll use ultra sun face. I apply it sparingly because it’s so greasy (obviously better than body sun cream but it’s too much to wear daily). I’m excited to see the difference a chemical sunscreen makes- this is a revelation to me. I’ve never heard of chemical sunscreen until today. Strange that Space NK didn’t mention it. Ordering now so should be fully protected by Christmas!

I must say that my skin is feeling great after only day 2 of the new routines. I examined my skin earlier and it’s definitely much better hydrated. It feels soft and looks more even in colouring. Also the line between my eyebrows (which doesn’t bother me too much actually) has almost disappeared. The lines around my eyes I can’t see. As I said in my first post I don’t have bad lines, I’m quite lucky in that respect at my age, but the new routines have really made a difference which has surprised me. I know that it’s early days but it’s great that I’m already seeing results.

My flapping penguin is fast asleep and has been going for longer at nights. So hopefully those dark circles under my eyes will improve before I stop feeding. I can explore retinoids then.

@botemp thanks for the free pass on washing my face in the shower Grin It’s a balancing act between efficacy and actually committing to it when it comes to any self care at the moment.

The Nars TM sounds interesting. I might be interested but need to get to a Space NK to check my shade and suitability

BlueSkyAtChristmas · 11/12/2019 23:32

Can anyone recommend a vitamin C product for when I run out of the Dr Sebagh? I don’t think I’ll repurchase as the powder is faffy. I think I have a months supply left. Should I look at The Ordinary?

Ps ... just googled the Deciem debacle as I didn’t get the reference. Bloody hell. I didn’t expect that. And the ending... so sad Sad

BlueSkyAtChristmas · 12/12/2019 00:44

Frezyderm 50 ordered for a bargain £15.50. Compared to the £92 natura bisse Hmm

Thanks ladies

Tsmummy08 · 12/12/2019 07:38

Sallie Yes I tried the Nars TM too but it didn't last (according to DD - my personal makeup critic).... Your routine sounds like mine: base, Hourglass, Urban Decay!

I've got the IT Illuminating CC, which is great and long-lasting but I fear the high SPF will produce lots of flashback, so haven't tried it at night.....

botemp · 12/12/2019 08:00

Ts, I believe they're quite comparable. May be worth looking out for Pai rosehip oil in the Christmas ornament/boxes offers. They always do them this time of year and come in really cheap, it's good for Tret dryness.

Base I'm useless with since the heaviest coverage I've ever sported is a tinted moisturiser but wasn't there a Nars one? Not sheer glow as that sounded good but is actually quite matte and full coverage, it's another one that was full but glowy/satiny. Also, potentially the UD all nighter setting spray?

Blue, Vitamin C rec is usually Timeless but they've just changed the packaging and maybe the consistency of the formula so I'm waiting on feedack on that (Pupsie did you end up ordering it?). Otherwise, it's the drunk elephant one but SpaceNK seems to be selling oxidised ones which is useless. Vit C in L-AA form is annoying as you need to buy it fresh and it needs to be stored in the fridge, so less faffy to use but more of a hassle to commit to, though potentially in a month''s time that's easier done than now? If you want to stick with a derivative that doesn't require refrigeration the Mad Hippie Serum is a well-liked SAP serum (price is rather inflated in the UK though). My derivative of choice is Medik8 C-Tetra but not cheap and would only suggest if you can't tolerate L-AA. The ones from the ordinary are really unpleasant to use and finish up really quickly and, yes, most of us have been left very wary about Deciem and TO after all that happened.

No need to switch out for ultra sun when out, the Frezyderm has really good protection, think it was Client who went out for a long period of time (horse riding?) and came back pristine despite otherwise burning up within minutes as she's quite pale. It's my SPF of choice in summer, it has a really broad protection that probably outperforms a lot of others.

OP posts:
Pupsiecola · 12/12/2019 08:23

Bo yes the Timeless Vit C arrived yesterday afternoon. I have only tried a tiny amount on the back of my hand. It is more watery than the DE for sure. Does that help? I'll put some on later shortly. I like the packaging. I hope it does irritate. Most Vit Cs I've tried have. That's why I stuck with DE for 2+ years. If I can get on with this one I'll be well happy price wise.

botemp · 12/12/2019 08:26

Yes, that helps as it's always been very watery so it just sounds like they changed the packaging. Now all it needs to be is not squirty 🐋

OP posts:
Pupsiecola · 12/12/2019 08:50

Okay. I'll do a squirt test and report back

IceniSky · 12/12/2019 09:37

Can I ask if seeing a Dermatologist is worth it? I'm 41 and have always had problem skin but it appears to be getting worse. I've read threads and tried products ranging from Liv Earl, Avene, LRP, The Orindary, Paul's Choice etc but nothing seems to work.

I think I have roccessa. My nose, checks and middle of my forehead are always red, and I can feel them. Like a slight burning feeling, but recently I have started getting thread veins on the side of my nose.

My pores on my nose are large, but are now appearing on my forehead.

I look dehydrated but drink a lot of water, and eat fatty fish etc. My lips are always dry.

Anything with scent, vitamin c etc burns my face. It's a bit depressing!

botemp · 12/12/2019 09:52

It does sound like rosacea Ice and if your GP is not helpful in diagnosis it may be worth it. It's upwards of £250 for a consultation depending where you are. Soolantra seems to be the miracle product that has changed the lives of many with rosacea so that's the thing to ask after but if you can get it through your GP you're obviously saving yourself a good deal of mean. I wouldn't suggest going it alone as there are several different types of rosacea and they respond to different things. Are you dealing with acne too? For a more affordable option you could try Dermatica (an online dermatologist service) but they only offer Azelaic acid for rosacea AFAIK, you can try their CS for more information. It's something like £22 a month including 50ml of prescription.

OP posts:
IceniSky · 12/12/2019 09:59

I dont really have acne, only hormonal spots here and there. I'm wondering how much GPs know about skin, and whether a specialist would be better. I'm in the Midlands and the money wouldn't be an issue.

I assume I just ask for a consultation appointment ?

cad186 · 12/12/2019 10:05

Regarding foundations I love the Giorgio Armani luminous silk but the colour isnt a perfect match unfortunately. My skin can be dry and foundations can look cakey on me if I'm not careful. I have started using Teint Idole ultra wear and I really like it. I have also got the IT cosmetics one, it's ok but I wasnt 100% on it, I cannot remember why though! I have also tried No 7 Hydraluminous (that was quite nice), Loreal infallible pro glow (nice but my skin seemed to react to this one - I have rosacea) and a Boots own brand one CYO that was recommended on here (that was nice too). Out of all of them I will definitely repurchase the Teint Idole and possibly the No 7 Hydraluminous. The original foundation I was using was discontinued so I've been on a bit of a mission to find a replacement!

botemp · 12/12/2019 10:05

If money is not an issue than yes GPs are generally not that informed on skin issues. I only know of Dr. Emma Wedgeworth in London having it as a specialty. If you're looking for someone closer to home I'd look for one with it as a specialty who also offers IPL as a specialty as it's a good treatment for both rosacea and thread veins.

OP posts:
cad186 · 12/12/2019 10:11

When I was diagnosed with rosacea at the GP it was fairly obvious that I knew more about it than him! And he had never heard of soolantra and couldn't find it on his system so he gave me metronidazole instead. I havent started using it yet as I'm still breastfeeding. When I finish breastfeeding I will probably try to get soolantra from an online pharmacy, I think it costs just under £40. Although saying that my skin is really good at the moment so perhaps I won't need to fingers crossed!

Pupsiecola · 12/12/2019 11:42

Bo the Timeless didn't squirt. It's good packaging. A nozzle with quite a wide opening. I used two squirts. Watery, but reassuringly pale. More so than even the best DE I've had. Didn't sting or itch. Felt absolutely fine.

ClientListQueen · 12/12/2019 11:44

@botemp yes it was me, 2 plus hours day of Prince Harry's wedding so boiling. Not a pink bit in sight! I also use the banana boat spray aerosol on my body (like a fine mist) and that is also fantastic on me

Foundation wise I use exactly 4
CYO or revolution conceal and hydrate (day to day)
Dollish veil vita BB cream in purple (light coverage)
Double wear (nights out, photo shoots)

botemp · 12/12/2019 11:56

Thanks Pupsie that sounds reassuring. Yes when fresh it's pretty much the colour of water, it gets a light yellow at most (if kept in the fridge). Hope it continues to work well for you.

I don't understand why makeup companies don't capitalise on night out foundations by offering it in a mini version (can also double up for travel). They can charge more per/ml and people would be more likely to buy them for the low entry price. Is the CYO one the soap and glory one now?

Client, I've asked you this before but liquid lipsticks that don't shift and don't dry and aren't noticeably there (as in how it feels not looks). I tried the Maybelline one and it's definitely indestructible but it was very noticeably there and the colours felt like they lacked a bit of depth. Contemplating the Nars ones but the reds all look more pink than red, I don't mind a blue based red, but I do want a red not pink. Armani ones would be great if they actually survived a meal intact.

OP posts:
Karcheer · 12/12/2019 12:00

Morning all - on day five of my tret/bha rotation and my skin is looking amazing. I even popped to the supermarket with no make up on, which I would’ve never done in the past.

I really want to thank you all, as my skin hasn’t looked this good in about 7 years!

ClientListQueen · 12/12/2019 12:15

@botemp I really like the Stila ones, and you can get mini ones to try

ClientListQueen · 12/12/2019 12:15

And yes it's soap and glory but not available here. CYO still on the shelf for a little while longer

botemp · 12/12/2019 12:21

Oh TKMaxx had a whole load of Stila in, I'll have a look if there's anything there as there's no other shops selling them here, I think. Thanks!

Congrats Karcheer, I'm glad it's all working so well for you and so quickly.

OP posts:
Karcheer · 12/12/2019 12:24

@botemp it’s absolutely amazing how quickly it’s changed, each thing I add in makes a noticeable difference, I really can’t thank you enough.

What’s CYO?

SallieSallow · 12/12/2019 16:59

Thanks Pupsie that’s good news about the timeless Vit c as it’s the only one I’ve got on with so far.

That’s great Karcheer glad it’s working so well for you! CYO is a makeup range that was (fairly briefly) sold in Boots and then discontinued. Seems a bit strange it came and went so fast but I think it was possibly only the foundation that sold well.

ClientListQueen · 12/12/2019 18:00

@Karcheer CYO is my holy grail foundation Grin
Everything else (I'm talking Chanel to Lancôme to Rimmel) sits on my skin and grabs on dry patches and looks caked or heavy or breaks up
They do a foundation called lifeproof and it lasts all day on me and it's like applying melted butter Grin minus the grease

EnidButton · 13/12/2019 02:00

Do you get it in shade 101 Queen? And does it oxidise much? Just from a swatch I thought it looked too dark for me but we usually get the same shades ok so I think I'll try it out. Can't really go wrong at that price (and if it's no good I could send you it!)