In these deepest, darkest wintry days of the year it can be difficult to find a product which strikes that fine balance, both protecting and enhancing your complexion.
Go for a cream which is too rich and it can over-compensate, resulting in oily and breakout-prone skin.
But, in contrast, anything too lightweight will be instantly absorbed and won't offer any protection at all, leaving you with dull looking, dry skin.
I've compiled a list of the best skincare products I've found to date, which I feel really do work and are worth investing in.
(You will note that none of the Lush Cosmetics moisturisers are included on this list. This is because Lush Moisturisers contain two types of paraben preservative, a known carcinogenic, which really shocked me! I'm hoping that they can find a less harmful alternative in future since their entire brand is built on 'natural' and 'healthy' products. Their fresh face masks, however, do not contain any harmful ingredients are really are wonderful.)
RRP £5.95 from Lush Cosmetics.
I can't stress just how important it is that you try this product!! Completely natural, certified organic and cruelty free, this amazing toning serum soaks into the skin almost instantly and provides day-long moisture. It has proven anti-ageing qualities, contains exciting ingredients like seaweed and marshmallow and makes an amazing make-up base. This toner has wonderful moisturising qualities, so if you have phases where your skin becomes more oily, this is great as it hydrates without the stickiness or greasy appearance that creams can sometimes cause with oily skin. Fabulous for all skin types, GREAT for sensitive skin or those who have skin complaints and it's organic.
RRP £11.95 for 50ml from Green People. Trial size of 10ml also available for £3.60 here.
Great things really do come in small packages! This eye cream works wonders for those in need of a little under eye pick-me-up. The metal tip instantly soothes and tautens the sensitive under eye skin, whilst the slightly tinted balm gives translucent coverage. This product is great for disguising the delicate under-eye area during the months that we can't get away with slathering on as much fake tan!!
RRP £28 for 10ml from Debenhams
I briefly mentioned this little wonder-product back in my review of the Green People Oy! Organic Shampoo and Shower Gel and promised my review. Well, I can't do anything but plead that you try this product!! Facial oils are creeping onto the market more and more now, with people realising that with the right oils you can moisturise without encouraging grease and breakouts. This anti-ageing, organic oil smells absolutely divine and leaves your skin feeling softer, more supple and moisturised. This nifty little product is also available in a trial size, so if you don't want to rely on my word alone, you can pick up a little 10ml vial for a fraction of the cost to try before you buy. But you will most definitely buy!!
RRP £16.95 for 30ml from Green People. Trial size of 5ml also available for £3.60 here.
Good Things is another fab little 'friendly products' brand which I've stumbled across. They use gorgeous, natural ingredients like blackberry and pomegranate, so their products are really good for your skin and they smell delicious!! A firm fave of mine is the Face the Day moisturiser. Retailing at less than £10 it's a fab little disposable product for everyday use. Containing goji berry and papaya, the moisturiser balances your complexion and soothes your skin. Perfect for dry or outbreak-prone skintypes.
RRP £7.99 for 100ml from Boots.
I really hope that you find something on this post which you like. Getting your skincare products right will help to balance your complexion, meaning that makeup will sit far better, enhancing your natural skintone.
If you think there should be any other 'natural' skincare products here which I've missed then let me know!!
