Hydrate with Dr. Ci:Labo

A while back, I received Dr. Ci:Labo Aqua-Collagen-Gel Super Moisture EX and I was excited to try a new product intended to be the "ultimate moisturizing gel." 

Here's what Beautyhabit says about this moisturizing gel: 
● "All-in-one" moisturizer that contains 6 functions; Toner, Emulsion, Beauty Essence, Cream, Facial Mask and Makeup Base. Helps create supple lustrous skin without any stickiness.
● Contains Dr.Ci:Labo’s original moisturizing ingredients, "Collagen HC Nano Capsule" which rapidly penetrates thoroughly into the skin.
● 120 kinds of beauty support ingredients (skin conditioning ingredients) which enhances your skin's natural beauty.
● Glycyrrhizic acid 2K helps balance your skin condition, and keeps skin healthy.
● No fragrance, no coloring, no mineral oils, paraben free, alcohol free, petroleum surfactant agent free.

As soon as I opened the box, I was immediately reminded of the Koh Gen Do Aqua Spa Moisture Gel, which I did not like because of the sticky texture it left on my skin. The packaging of Dr. Ci:Labo is exactly the same, right down to the plastic separator with the mini spatula for application. 

Fortunately, this was not sticky in texture like the Koh Gen Do, though if you pile it on it does start to veer in that direction. If I apply a normal amount though, I seem to be fine, and I'm happy to say that this has provided some relief to my dehydrated skin. I like the light, yet hydrating texture of this, though I'm not sure someone with extremely dry skin or a preference for heavier textured creams would like this one. 

I can't speak to the claims of this product being an "all in one," but I do find that I don't generally need to wear any other creams or things when I use this, and I don't have any issues with makeup while wearing this either. I can definitely see how this could work as a facial mask in terms of texture, but I haven't tested this for hydration. (I'm quite happy using my Rodial Dragon's Blood!) 

I definitely think Dr. Ci:Labo Aqua-Collagen-Gel Super Moisture EX will be handy for layering skincare this winter. You can find it at Beautyhabit (affiliate link) in two sizes. What do you think about this moisturizer? Is this something you would try? 

Product provided for review.

All You Need is Cleansing Water

A few years ago if you asked me what I used to remove makeup, my answer would have been, hands down, Lancome Bi-Facil. After a few bottles of it though, I started getting tired of the oily texture and strong rose scent. 

Now I have new products in my makeup removal arsenal, and after watching Lisa Eldrigde's makeup removal video (here) and splurging on Shiseido Facial Cottons (review), I'm all set!  

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water
Some of you may know that this is one of those products I just can't live without. I discovered it about two years ago, and it is just perfect. Using Lisa's technique on the eyes, this removes eye makeup of all kinds beautifully. In a pinch, I can even cleanse my face well enough with this, and it has even toned down redness for me in the past!

Earthscience Chamomile & Green Tea Eye Makeup Remover*  
This unscented vegan makeup remover is a breeze to use. Just squeeze this clear gel into a cotton pad, smush it around, and let it soak on your eyes for a moment. The waterproof items require a bit more effort, but otherwise this remover does the trick and is more natural than many others on the market.

Ok, this isn't a cleansing water exactly, but it almost falls into that category in my book. I like it far more than those oil based eye makeup removers out there! If I have heavy duty eye makeup on, I use this first then follow up with the Koh Gen Do for any remnants and the rest of my makeup removal.

Rodial Dragon's Blood Cleansing Water
My lovely best friend sent me this (along with a few other items from the line that I LOVE) as a belated birthday gift, and I say it may give my favorite Koh Gen Do a run for its money. I think it works just as well - great for eye makeup removal and face cleansing in a pinch! Plus I love the pump and overall packaging. How can I pick between the two?? 

Darphin Azahar Cleansing Water (GWP sample)
Perhaps my least favorite of the bunch, this rose-scented water feels good on the skin and removes face makeup decently. It does require a bit of rubbing to properly remove eye makeup, so for me that is a big negative.  

What do you use to remove your makeup? Are you a cleansing water fan? Have you tried any of these? I'd love to know!

P.S.. For US readers, you have the chance to get your hands on the Rodial and Darphin by entering my giveaway for a $150 Space NK gift card! Enter here.

Products marked with a * were provided for review. 

I'm Seriously In Love with African Botanics Marula Intense Skin Repair Body Balm

On a wonderful trip to Space NK at the end of May, I discovered this brilliant product from African Botanics. I hadn't heard of the brand before that visit, but once the SA told me her personal experiences with this particular product, I was sold.  

Marula is fast becoming a popular ingredient in a variety of skincare products these days. Known for its moisturizing properties, this particular product was much loved by both of the Space NK associates I met that day for its ability to repair.   

Yes, you read that right. Repair! I have a number of scars that are slow to heal, and one particular raised scar underneath my lip from stitches. The associates recommended massaging this balm onto that area to smooth out the texture, and boy it really works. They also shared some stories of personal experiences (oven burns, skateboarding accidents, general clumsiness injuries) where this balm managed to heal their issues with little to no scarring in the span of a week. Seriously.  

The day I bought it, I immediately massaged it into my raised scar and thought I could feel a difference. I had some acne that was just beginning the healing process, so i warmed up some of this balm and put it on that too. I swear my acne was less red and significantly less noticeable, but I was so impressed with how smooth that particular scar became. I only managed to massage that scar a few times, and even my fiance noticed a difference in its texture. He told me he couldn't feel the scar without looking, whereas he could find it easily with his fingers before! 

But that's not the only thing this balm does. I've used it on my face when I'm feeling particularly dry, and it just does wonders there. Same with the vaguely eczema-like patches and slight rashes I get on my arms and legs occasionally. I don't know how, but it clears it up! I don't have serious eczema, so I don't know how it fares for that, but I have heard people having success with this.  

So, I'm seriously in love. There are some other products from the line that I'm dying to try, but this little jar of balm is really a miracle for me. I'll happily use it up and repurchase it again! (But don't worry, I still haven't made too much of a dent in 5 months, a little goes a long way!) 

If you're itching to get your hands on it, I'm currently working with Space NK (affiliate link) to offer $20 off a purchase of $75 or more! Click here to purchase and use the code BBDISCOVER. :) 

Have you tried African Botanics Marula Intensive Repair Balm? Will this end up in your shopping cart? :) 

Wake Up to Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Moisturizer

During the summer, I was looking for a really light feeling moisturizer that absorbed quickly and felt light on the skin. I have always enjoyed Origins moisturizers, and I was curious about Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Moisturizer when it was released, so I picked up a jar. 

What I love about this cream is that it is scented like oranges and is super light in texture. There is no stickiness at all when you apply this, and it absorbs so quickly that you can get to the rest of your routine. While I find the jar packaging inconvenient, this isn't a deal breaker for me usually. 

I think this moisturizer would work great for oily to normal skin types, and is perfect for hot and humid weather. My skin has been so dehydrated and my summer has been so dry that many days, this isn't enough. However, when layered with an SPF, it works pretty well for me. If I remembered to use serum, I'm sure it would be even better! :) 

Have you tried any products from the Origins GinZing line? If so, what did you think? I'd love to know!

This post contains affiliate links. Product featured was purchased by me.