Guess who’s back after an unplanned hiatus! A lot has happened, some of it good, some of it challenging, and I was not in the mental space to write. Between experiencing family loss and managing day-to-day responsibilities, I didn’t feel like I had anything to give creatively.
Thankfully, there’s no limit to the number of times you can pick yourself up and start again. What a blessing and a gift…so, here I am, hoping for a longer ride, and taking it a day at a time.
One thing that has never left me is my love for all things beauty and skincare, so what better way to get back into the rhythm of things than by sharing some of my recent face and body care product empties I recommend.
Paula’s Choice Optimal Results Hydrating Cleanser
I’ve always been a Paula’s Choice fan and have raved about the Optimal Results Hydrating cleanser, so it’s no surprise it’s one of my empties. It’s gentle and always leaves my skin feeling clean, soft, and supple. It’s especially perfect for everyday use, but especially during winter to keep your skin hydrated. I’ve also found that it can also work well when double cleansing if you have makeup because of its milky, non-foaming consistency. I’ve repurchased it a few times and will probably keep doing so in the future.
Paula’s Choice Discoloration Serum
Since Paula’s Choice products have always worked well for my skin, it’s natural for me to explore their different ranges. The discoloration serum isn’t new to the market, but when I came across it while restocking my cleanser, I decided to give it a try. I was particularly intrigued by its key ingredients: 3% tranexamic acid, 5% niacinamide, and 0.5% bakuchiol, all of which are designed to even out skin tone and fade dark spots. To evaluate its effectiveness, I avoided mixing it with any other serums. The serum has a pale, almost pastel yellow color, and, as with all Paula’s Choice products, I appreciated that it is fragrance-free.
The serum had a pale, almost pastel yellow colour, and as with all Paula’s Choice products, I appreciated that it’s fragrance-free. It was light but easily absorbed into the skin without feeling heavy. I first used it only at night, but eventually moved to using it in the morning as well. Overall, it didn’t irritate my skin at all, and though slow, it worked to slowly fade some hyperpigmentation spots I had on my right cheek and forehead. I’ll probably repurchase it to target some pigmentation on my chin, courtesy of my winter jacket rubbing against my skin in my efforts to keep warm.
Farmacy Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturiser
I don’t remember when or from whom I first learned about the Farmacy brand, but I’ve come to love their Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer. I was searching for something to protect my skin barrier, especially considering how harsh winter can be on it. Initially, I thought the thick consistency would make it too heavy, but it melted into my skin like butter. It felt rich and soothing, leaving my skin soft and supple.
It’s made with a blend of ceramides, which is great for hydration and is perfect for morning and night. The 100ml jar I got lasted me for a little over two months because I didn’t need a huge amount of product. It also came with a metal spatula that magnetically attaches to the top of the lid, so I didn’t have to pick up the product with my fingers. I’m already on my next jar, so it’s safe to say this one will be on rotation.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
It goes without saying that sunscreen is the most important step in your routine, even in winter, and no one does it better than Korean skincare brands. The Beauty of Joseon sunscreen is a staple in the market, and I can’t count the number of tubes I’ve gone through. It’s lightweight, leaves no white cast, and sits well under makeup. I know some sunscreens sometimes irritate the eyes, but I only experienced this when I didn’t double cleanse, something that was easy to remedy. So, it’s one to consider if you’re looking to try a new sunscreen.
Farmacy Lip Smoothie Vitamin C + Peptide Lip Balm
Continuing my journey with the Farmacy brand, I was on the lookout for a new lip balm because I refuse to be seen with dry, chapped lips. I love my matte liquid lipsticks, so taking care of my lips is essential. This lip balm has a light yet hydrating consistency, leaving my lips feeling soft and supple without any greasy residue. It wasn’t sticky, which meant I didn’t have to deal with any goopy buildup around my lips—a huge plus for me. A little of this product goes a long way, and I was able to use it for a few months. My only critique is that it comes in a jar rather than a tube, so I had to ensure my hands were clean before each reapplication. I would repurchase it, but I’ll likely reserve it for use at home.
Naturium, The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
If you think my passion for skincare is limited to my face, you’re mistaken. The Naturium Glow Getter body wash is a crucial part of my body care routine. It’s an oil-to-foam cleanser that feels incredibly luxurious on the skin, leaving me feeling both cleansed and hydrated. Formulated with 50% glycerin, it’s rich in humectants, which means my skin feels soft and supple, without the dryness that can sometimes occur—especially after my hot showers (I’ve gotten better with this). I genuinely love how my skin not only feels but also looks after a couple of months of using this body wash. So, if you’ve been considering it, take this as your sign to give it a try!
Fenty Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream
I have not explored a lot of Fenty products beyond the gloss bomb, but the Fenty Butta Drop body creams were well worth it. They are not only smooth and moisturising without feeling greasy, but the scents linger on the skin and are perfect for layering with your favourite perfume. The vanilla dream scent made me think of the pink peonies and softness of the petals, and the fluffiness of marshmallow. The salted caramel scent reminded me of salted caramel popcorn I would get in Kenya, before I relocated. I was addicted to that popcorn and would literally find any excuse to go there and buy a bag to snack on.
I’m a vanilla girlie through and through, but the salted caramel scent won this one for me, simply for the nostalgia aspect of it. However, regardless of which scent you go for, you will smell delicious. My only critique is that these are limited edition, and I wish they would become a permanent part of the brand with refill options. Being a limited edition means that if you want to buy extras, you must buy each separately, which I found to be wasteful. Other than that, I have no complaints about the body creams and would highly recommend them.
