Reviewing New Products

Recently I've been trying out a few new products and have been gradually introducing them one at a time. I just felt like my skincare routine needed an overhaul so that it could be more effective. I have oily and sensitive skin which is also spot prone, so I struggle to find products that don't irritate my skin or dry it out. A lot of products targeted at oily/spot prone skin are very harsh and drying, so I have to be careful about the ingredients and formulas that I use. The products that I've chosen here are based on non irritating ingredients and formulas that won't clog my pores. I've also looked for things that will help even my skin tone and fade acne scars (toner and serum). The other two products I purchased were chosen for their hydrating properties and being gentle on the skin (moisturiser and face wash). Here are my findings on all 4 of the products and in what order I introduced them...

#1) TO Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Reasons for purchase: I was looking for something to help even my skin tone whilst simultaneously fading my acne scars. I'd heard and read good things about this product and had been wanting to incorporate a serum into my routine for awhile. I was already using the Witch Overnight Clearing Serum in the PM but it took awhile to see any kind of results or fading of scars. So I ordered a bottle of niacinamide serum from Amazon and used it for a week to see if it was effective on my skin.

Thoughts (after 4 weeks): I started off by using this serum only in the morning. I immediately noticed that my skin felt alot smoother and less textured, as well as absorbing very quickly into the skin. The formula has a syrup-like consistency but without the stickiness. I loved how it didn't leave a tacky feeling on my skin and how non-irritating it was. After using it for a week I also noticed that my t-zone was less oily. I eventually started using the serum twice a day, however I found that I was getting more oily by the evening. I now only use it in the AM and have seen some improvement in the appearance of my acne scars and how quickly new breakouts clear up. Rating: 9/10

#2) Pixi Glow Tonic

Reasons for purchase:I bought this about a year ago when the Pixi range was on offer in Boots. I tried it a few times but my skin would go red as soon as I applied it. After a few applications the irritation lessened but I became a bit cautious about using it and just stopped altogether. Then a month ago I took it out from the depths of my skincare draw and thought I'd give it another shot. I'd seen on YouTube that chemical exfoliants were becoming really popular in skincare and that they were more effective on oily/combination skin, compared to physical exfoliants. I've tried facial scrubs before but the day after I would get lots of little bumps on my cheeks where the scrub had caused irritation to my skin.

Thoughts (after 3 weeks): I built up my skin's tolerance to the glycolic acid by using it once on the first week then increasing the use gradually. I have decided to stick with 3 times a week until my skin has got used to it. I've heard that you can use it daily but I think for sensitive skin it's best to only use it a few times a week. The first time my skin was fine as I only used a few drops of the tonic. I now feel more comfortable with using a bit more and have noticed that it's really helped clear up any breakouts and prevent new ones from forming. I'm hoping that over time it'll help even and brighten my skin, as well as fading old acne scars. I am really starting to see the benefits of this product and will continue to use it 3 times a week for exfoliation. Rating: 7/10

#3) Nivea Refreshing Facial Wash Gel

Reasons for purchase: I did some research into active ingredients and how they interact with BHA's/AHA's. I realised that I was using salicylic acid twice a day in the form of my cleanser and worried that it would react badly to my niacinamide serum and glycolic toner (Pixi Glow Tonic). So I started looking for a gentler morning cleanser that wouldn't strip my skin and would work in harmony with my other active ingredients. 

Thoughts (after 2 weeks): Although this cleanser is formulated with fragrance, I've found that it' a good basic cleanser that leaves my skin soft and hydrated. I love the scent and my skin immediately feels clean and refreshed after use. I also use it in the PM if I'm exfoliating with the Pixi Glow Tonic. I've found that the two products work really well together and the toner doesn't dry out my skin after. This product does exactly what it says on the tin! Rating: 8/10

#4) Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Reasons for purchase: I was almost finished with my Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser and was curious about trying this product because I'd seen lots of positive reviews for it online. It also helped that it was on offer! So I bought it with the hopes that it would be super hydrating and lightweight on the skin. It's also formulated for combination skin which means it won't clog pores like a thick moisturiser would. It also said it was suitable for sensitive skin and I was intrigued by the water gel formula. I liked the fact it had hyaluronic acid as the main active ingredient, which is known for being super hydrating. 

Thoughts (after 1 week): The first time I used it I noticed how it melted into the skin and was absorbed within seconds. I also loved how smooth it made my skin feel and that it didn't leave a greasy residue. It dried completely matte, which I was very pleased about, having oily skin already. After a couple of days my skin felt more supple and smooth. So far I've not had any irritation from the fragrance and it even helps to moisturise my under-eye area without the need for eye cream. I'm really happy with the results and hope that it continues to do wonders for my skin :) Rating: 10/10


I've also started trying out some rosehip seed oil and Neutrogena Clear Face SPF 55. I've only been using the oil for a few days so have yet to form any proper opinions on the product. However, it is definitely something I need to get used to, as this is my first time trying a face oil. I was sceptical at first as my skin is already oily but I've heard that rosehip oil has some really versatile properties, especially when it comes to acne prone skin. At least if it doesn't work for my breakouts I can use it as a PM moisturiser instead :) I'm also going to be adding the Simple Soothing Facial Toner to my routine. I'm going to use up my Garnier Rose Soothing Toner first, before doing a 7 day skincare diary on the Simple toner. Watch this space for reviews on these 3 new products!!!

Who Cares, We Care, Skincare :)