Favourite Products - First half of 2025

Halfway through the year seems like a good time to reflect on what my favourite products have been for the past 6 months. This will of course include some new products, both new to the world and just new to me, and some old favourites. 

When the world feels like it's going, quite quickly, to hell in a handcart, nice beauty products really feels like the least we deserve. So here we go: 

Planted Oil Cleanser - I'm just about to purchase my second pot. Was sent the first one to review but absolutely fell in love with it. Suits all skin types, has worked really well with my rosacea.

Mixsoon Glacier Water - Bought on a whim and I absolutely love it. A little goes a long way, it hydrates the skin. My first toe-dip into korean skincare and I'm loving it. 

Naturium Plant Ceremide Moisturiser - there seems to be a lack of straight up, uncomplicated moisturisers that work for all skin types but I feel like I've finally found one. Works well for my dry skin, and my rosacea but there's no reason it wouldn't suit all skin types and work for everyone. Lovely ingredients and is cruelty-free

Tropic Gel Liner - I have been using this for years but I absolutely adore it. Goes not, stays on, if you get to it in the first couple of minutes you can buff and smudge it. After that it doesn't budge. And it goes on the waterline. 

Eye of Horus Universal Duo - sometimes a makeup product just calls to me and this palette has sung its siren song for at least a year and so I finally caved in and bought it. I like cream blushers and bronzers so I didn't have high hopes for this but it's beautiful. It's the first time I've had continuous comments about my blusher and a little goes a long way so the amount of use you will get out of this palette will definitely make it worth the price. 

Love Katie Mascara - God I was underwhelmed by this when I first tried it. 'Takes too much effort' I thought. The brush is tiny so you have to work through your lashes but I have grown to absolutely love it. Old-school bristle brush but long and thin which makes this ideal for anyone who feels they have sparse lashes. I will happily rebuy this when it runs out. 

Narcissus Eye Shadow Sticks - I love an eye shadow stick and I love a woman-owned UK brand and this sticks are the best I've tried. They stay put and the colours are stunning and suit all skin types. My friend has worn these in 30C heat at a PTA summer fete and they did not budge. Use code CORINNA30 for 30% off.

Tropic Tinted Skin Shade - I've been using this for years and it's still the one I reach for every single day. Great light/medium coverage, good sun protection and a lovely finish. If you are paler than me this might be too dark. They need more shades of this. 

Tropic Skin Shade - the suncream I use all over the bodies of my family. I rebuy it every year. I think in the 13 years of having children this is the one that I've found that works for everyone and meets my requirements of having no problematic ingredients 

Doterra Face & Body Stick - for those who have people in their lives who don't like creams on their face or if you want something to go over makeup this is the one. I have them all over the house as my neurospicy littles will allow this to be put on them. 

Solskin Tanning Mousse - wow I have been mostly indifferent to tanning products but this is absolutely incredible. A great deep tan colour, no strange smell, no streaks and it doesn't feel drying at all. I have dry skin on my legs, prone to itching and this is just the best I've used in over 20 years. I'm a pasty girl and I use. 

This Works Perfect Skin Miracle - I feel I'm late to the party with this but it's a game-changer. I fake tan rather than real tan and this wash-off tinted skin serum reinvigorates dull tan (real or fake) hydrates the skin and gives the most beautiful healthy glow. Suits all skin types an skin tones. Use code CHIPPY at checkout for 10% off site-wide.

Planted Oil Cleanser with Black Cumin and Raw Honey – A New Favourite for Sensitive Skin

If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that I have dry skin with rosacea – a combination that demands a very selective and gentle skincare routine. Over the years, I’ve tested countless products, and it’s rare for something new to immediately earn a spot on my re-buy list. But the Planted Oil Cleanser from Planted Bioavailable Skincare? It's absolutely made the cut.

There’s something particularly reassuring about skincare created out of necessity – especially when it's born from personal experience. That’s exactly how Melissa Chartan developed Planted. Having battled eczema, psoriasis, and persistently dry skin, she sought solutions that worked where conventional products hadn’t. After finding relief through the use of plant oils, she created Planted – a brand rooted in efficacy, simplicity, and skin-kind ingredients.

First Impressions: Texture and Performance

The texture was the first thing that won me over – a dreamy blend that sits somewhere between an oil, a balm, and a gel. It’s officially described as a gel-to-milk hydrophilic cleanser, and that’s exactly right. Applied to dry skin, it glides on beautifully, melting away dirt, makeup, and the day’s residue. Add a little water, and it emulsifies into a light milk – not too thin, just enough to rinse away cleanly without leaving a film.

It removes every trace of makeup effortlessly, making it ideal as the first step in a double cleanse, if that’s your thing. But honestly? It performs so well, it works well solo which is how I use it. My skin feels thoroughly cleansed – something I can confidently say, as my LumiSpa never picks up any leftover residue or base in the morning. There’s no tightness, no dryness, and crucially, no irritation or dragging – a huge win if you’ve got sensitive or rosacea-prone skin like mine.The brand claims it works for all skin types, and I don’t see why that wouldn’t be the case. I haven’t tested it on oily skin yet, but in my experience, oilier skin types often respond well to oil-based cleansers. As always, it's worth checking the ingredients list in case something doesn’t agree with your skin.

Results

Since incorporating this cleanser into my routine, I’ve noticed a genuine improvement in my skin’s softness and comfort. I wasn’t expecting visible results from a cleanser, but this one has surprised me – in the best way.

Skin Type Suitability

The brand says it’s suitable for all skin types, and from what I’ve seen, I’d agree. While I haven’t tested it on oily skin personally, oil-based cleansers are often well tolerated by oilier complexions – they can actually help regulate sebum production. As always, it's worth checking the full ingredients list if your skin is reactive or acne-prone.

Ingredient Highlights

Now, onto the formulation – which is thoughtfully crafted and genuinely impressive. While I adore essential oils in daily life, I approach them with caution in skincare due to my sensitivity. That said, I’ve had no issues with this blend. Here’s a closer look at the standout ingredients:

• Raw Honey – A natural humectant that attracts and retains moisture. It also gently exfoliates, offers antimicrobial benefits, and helps protect against transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

• Macadamia Seed Oil – Rich in oleic and linoleic acids, this oil supports barrier repair, softens skin, and reduces inflammation.

• Black Cumin Seed Oil – Known for its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps balance the skin and improve tone and texture.

• Apricot Kernel Oil – Soothing and vitamin-rich, it calms inflammation while deeply nourishing the skin.

Together, these ingredients create a formula that supports a healthy skin barrier, locks in moisture, and offers gentle but effective cleansing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cleanser that’s both effective and gentle – particularly if you struggle with dryness, sensitivity, or reactive skin – I wholeheartedly recommend giving Planted Oil Cleanser a try. It’s nourishing, thoughtfully formulated, and – most importantly – it works.

I was sent this and other Planted products to test but the choice to review them was mine and all opinions shared are true and I would happily buy this product myself

How to Identify Your Face Shape: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to enhancing your natural beauty, knowing your face shape is a total game-changer. Whether you’re choosing a hairstyle, trying out new makeup techniques, or picking the perfect pair of glasses, understanding your face shape can make all the difference. If you’ve ever wondered how to figure out yours, this simple guide has you covered.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Start by grabbing the essentials:

• A mirror
• A measuring tape or ruler
• Good lighting
  Tie your hair back so your face is completely visible.

Step 2: Take These Measurements

To determine your face shape, you’ll need to measure four key areas:

1. Forehead
   Measure across the widest part of your forehead, usually halfway between your brows and your hairline.

2. Cheekbones
   Measure from the outer corner of one eye across the top of your cheekbones to the outer corner of the other eye.

3. Jawline
   Measure from the tip of your chin to just below your ear at the corner of your jaw. Multiply this number by two to get the full jawline measurement.

4. Face Length
   Measure from the centre of your hairline to the very tip of your chin.

Step 3: Compare Your Measurements

Now that you have your numbers, compare them to identify your face shape. Here are the most common shapes and their characteristics:

Oval

• Face length > cheekbones
• Forehead slightly wider than jawline
• Softly rounded features

Round

• Face length and cheekbone width are similar
• Jawline is soft and rounded

Square

• All measurements are similar
• Strong, angular jawline

Heart

• Forehead is the widest part
• Face tapers to a narrow, pointed chin

Diamond

• Cheekbones are the widest part
• Narrow forehead and jawline

Once you know you know your face shape it can help you choose what hairstyles to go with, how to contour and choose makeup to suit you

Acids in Skincare: How to Choose the Right One for Your Skin Type

Acids have become some of the most sought-after ingredients in skincare. They’re known for addressing a variety of skin issues, from fine lines and dullness to acne and uneven texture. But with so many options—glycolic, lactic, hyaluronic, salicylic, and more—it’s not always easy to know which is best suited for your skin type. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular acids, their unique benefits, and how to use them for glowing, healthy skin.

1. Glycolic Acid

Best for: Normal to oily skin, uneven texture, scarring and hyperpigmentation

Glycolic acid is an AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) derived from sugarcane. It has the smallest molecular size of the AHAs, allowing it to penetrate deeply for effective exfoliation. Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells, brightens the complexion, and promotes cell turnover, which helps reduce hyperpigmentation and smooth skin texture. However, due to its potency, those with sensitive skin should start with a lower concentration and gradually increase usage as tolerated.

My Favourites: The Ordinary Glycolic Toner, Superdrug Naturally Radiant Glycolic Toner

2. Lactic Acid

Best for: Sensitive and dry skin

Lactic acid is a gentler AHA derived from milk. It’s an excellent choice for sensitive or dry skin types because it provides hydration in addition to exfoliation. It helps improve skin texture and fade mild discoloration without the irritation often associated with stronger AHAs. Lactic acid is a great starting acid for beginners and works well in a nighttime routine to soften and brighten the skin.

My Favourites: Garden of Wisdom Lactic Acid

3. Mandelic Acid

Best for: Sensitive and acne-prone skin

Mandelic acid, another AHA, has a larger molecular size, making it one of the gentlest exfoliating acids. Derived from bitter almonds, it works more slowly than other AHAs, which reduces the risk of irritation while still helping to smooth skin and reduce acne. It’s particularly suitable for sensitive skin types and those who find glycolic or lactic acid too harsh. Mandelic acid is often recommended for acne-prone skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Salicylic Acid

Best for: Oily and acne-prone skin

Salicylic acid is a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) that’s oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve excess sebum and clear out dead skin cells. It’s particularly effective for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. By exfoliating inside the pores, it helps to prevent and treat breakouts. Because salicylic acid can be drying, it’s best used on oily or acne-prone skin and should be balanced with hydrating products to prevent over-drying.

My Favourites: DoSe Salicylic Acid, 

5. Azelaic Acid

Best for: Rosacea, acne, and hyperpigmentation

Azelaic acid is naturally occurring in grains and known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It’s particularly beneficial for people with rosacea, as it calms redness and reduces inflammation. Azelaic acid is also effective in treating mild acne and reducing hyperpigmentation, making it a good choice for sensitive skin types dealing with multiple skin concerns.

My Favourites: DoSe Azelaic Acid

6. Hyaluronic Acid

Best for: All skin types, especially dry and dehydrated skin

While technically not an exfoliating acid, hyaluronic acid is a powerhouse hydrator. It’s a humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to the skin, helping to plump and smooth fine lines. Suitable for all skin types, it works particularly well when layered under moisturiser to lock in hydration. Using hyaluronic acid can help combat any dryness that may result from using other exfoliating acids.

My Favourites: DoSe Hyaluronic Acid, 

7. Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs)

Best for: Extremely sensitive skin and those new to acids

Polyhydroxy acids, including gluconolactone and lactobionic acid, are a newer class of acids that work similarly to AHAs but with a larger molecular size. This makes them less likely to cause irritation, making them ideal for sensitive skin. PHAs provide mild exfoliation and have hydrating properties, making them a gentle alternative for those who can’t tolerate traditional AHAs or BHAs.

My Favourites: DoSe PHA Exfoliating Serum 

8. Ferulic Acid

Best for: Antioxidant protection and sun damage

Ferulic acid is an antioxidant often found in combination with vitamins C and E. Unlike exfoliating acids, ferulic acid helps protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV damage. It stabilises other antioxidants, enhancing their effects, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone over time. Including ferulic acid in a morning routine can boost skin’s resilience against daily stressors, making it an excellent addition to anti-aging routines.

My Favourites: Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, 

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How to Choose the Right Acid for Your Skin

1. Identify Your Skin Type: Understanding whether your skin is oily, dry, sensitive, or combination will help narrow down the acids best suited for your needs.
2. Consider Your Skin Concerns: From hydration and fine lines to acne and pigmentation, each acid has specific benefits that address different concerns.
3. Start Slowly: Introduce one acid at a time to see how your skin responds. Overuse can lead to irritation, so begin with a lower concentration and gradually increase frequency.
4. Don’t Forget SPF: Acids can increase sun sensitivity, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UV damage.

Choosing the right acid can transform your skincare routine and deliver results tailored to your skin’s needs. Whether you’re looking for deeper hydration, gentle exfoliation, or targeted acne treatment, there’s likely an acid that’s a perfect fit. And remember, always patch-test new products and consult a skincare professional if you have any concerns about starting with acids.

Tune in to our latest podcast episode to learn more about each of these acids, including usage tips, layering, and real-life examples of how they can enhance your skincare journey!

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