So I’ve got a significant birthday coming up. One of those ones that ends in a zero. That makes you take a look at your life and think about whether you’re happy with it (you know what, for the most part, yes I am). And, if you’re anything like me, makes you think about your skincare routine and consider investing in a bunch of products that will make you look, if not younger, the best you possibly can going into a whole new decade.
According to an article I read in Stylist magazine last week beauty brands are moving towards making products aimed at making skin look better, healthier and more radiant, as opposed to just ten years younger. The movement is being called pro-ageing, which sounds much better than anti-aging, a negative and silly phrase when you think about it. Aging is afterall inevitable and, as someone – I’m not sure who – said, is better than the alternative. So true.
At the same time older models have become more visible in fashion and beauty campaigns with Charlotte Rampling fronting an ad for NARS, Anjelica Huston appearing in the Gap dress normal campaign and Christy Turlington back and looking more beautiful than ever for Calvin Klein. It remains to be seen if this is anything more than just a fleeting moment in fashion and yes, it could be said that the whole thing’s a cynical ploy to try and pull in a higher proportion of the 40+ pound. Whatever the reason, I think it’s good to see women of ALL ages in fashion and beauty magazines and hope it lasts.
Anyway, back to the point. Yes, there was one. My impending birthday is making me reassess my skincare regime and so when we were sent a tube of HealGel Eye to Rock My Style HQ I was keen to give it a try. The gel, which comes in a pump action tube in stylish but serious-looking apothecary-style packaging, promises to diminish the appearance of dark circles, puffiness and fine lines.
I’ve never used an eye product on a regular basis and don’t really suffer from dark circles but there are definitely more lines in that area than there used to be. As instructed I’ve been religiously applying the gel on a twice daily basis. It has a pleasing cooling feel, soaks in quickly without leaving behind any residue and creates a smooth base for make-up. After a month of use I would say that it has definitely made the area around my eyes look brighter and, yes, it does soften those lines. I would happily spend my own money on another tube when this one’s finished, although the way things are going it’s going to last me a while.
When it comes to looking after the rest of my face I’ve just treated myself to a tube of Pai’s Avocado (yum!) and Jojoba Day Cream to replace my regular Kiehl’s moisturiser, which is nearly finished. I’ll let you know how I get on with it in a future Healthy Haul post.
What are you doing on the pro-ageing front? Discovered any wonder products to help your skin look great whatever your age? As ever, do share in the comments section below! HealGel Eye costs £32 and you can buy it here
It is interesting to read about your eye gel – I have never used an eye product either – might look into that – thanks!
I recently discovered Ultra ceuticals which I am loving (hubs thinks my new regime cost significantly less than it did, but that’s by-the-by) I am using their recommended moisturiser over night and just their sunblock during the day, along with the cleanser etc – my skin feels wonderful! I have also treated myself to a course of 8 micro-dermabrasion sessions to help make my skin feel more rejuvenated!
I haven’t come across Ultraceuticals Jess, will have to investigate. Haha, glad to hear I’m not the only one who underplays what I spend on products!
Anti-aging products (or pro-aging!) for me are a minefield, there are so many, and so many new releases every single day. They all make such huge claims too – and I can’t help but think, not including medical grade retinol, that their effects can only be temporary and superficial.
I think eating well, staying hydrated, exercise and avoiding the sun is way more effective than any miracle cream. That said, there is nothing worse than a parched non-moisturised complexion, especially around the eye area so I apply creams (nothing particularly fancy) regularly.
Having said all of the above I am often tempted by every marketing campaign there is going when it comes to stuff that will soften fine lines and restore your “glow”, what a hypocrite.
I agree Charlotte, on days when I’ve drunk plenty of water and eaten lots of veggies my skin looks at it its best, but I do like to use a creamy, super-hydrating moisturiser. And yes, I’m always tempted by every marketing campaign too…
I’ve been conscious of looking after my skin since I hit my 30s and despite the scaremongering I didn’t develop crows feet and jowls overnight. My favourite product is good old Olay (I still find myself calling it Oil of Ulay). My gran always used this and the smell reminds me watching her sitting at her dressing table when I was little. I’ve tried other products over the years (some quite expensive) but this is the one for me. I have never found a good eye cream though
It will always be Oil of Ulay to me too Claire! I think that often the classic products do the job just as well, so many people swear by Palmer’s Cocoa Butter for example, they’re classics for a reason I guess…
Pai’s eye cream is lovely
Ooh, one to try when I’ve finished my tube of HealGel Eye – thanks for the recommendation Sarah!
I’ve been reading a lot about Pai recently, don’t they do a lot with Avacado?!
Yes, lots with avocado and other similarly natural stuff!
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