Posts Written ByJules

Quick Reviews #36: Isntree

Isntree South Africa

Hyaluronic Acid Toner Apparently the number one toner in Korea, this slightly viscous essence is closer in texture to something like the Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Lotion (available in SA here) than a traditional watery toner and is a lovely first step skincare product. Applied to a clean, dry face, this immediately plumps up the skin and leaves it feeling fresh and hydrated. Mutiple layers (or “skins”, as in, the 7 Skin Method) increase the sense of hydration if you are very dehydrated (I usually do 2-3) and it’s juicy enough to be used alone as a moisturising comfort…

Quick Reviews #35: Cleansers

The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser You may be unfamiliar with The Inkey List as this brand isn’t available in South Africa yet, but it’s one of the new generation of super-affordable skincare ranges inspred by The Ordinary that focus on basic, hero ingredient formulations. Where I think The Inkey List has improved on The Ordinary’s concept is they have kept the product line small, focused and easy to understand, unlike DECIEM’s offering which is now completely overblown. I bought a few things from Cult Beauty the last time I was in the UK and this was one of the…

Quick Reviews #34: New Skincare

Lamelle Correctives Recharge CE Product overview: This is a high-potency vitamin C serum which contains 20% L-Ascorbic Acid; the purest and most active form of vitamin C. This is combined with 1% alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E) in a stabilised, anhydrous (water-free) base. Read this to learn more about the importance of antioxidants like vitamin C in your skincare. My experience: As someone with pigmentation, you know I love a vitamin C serum and as a huge fan of the Lamelle range, I was excited to put this through its paces. In terms of texture, it’s unlike most of the other vit…

Jules’ 2018 Favourites: Skincare

Last year was something of a turning point for me when it came to my skincare. I would say the most significant change I made was settling into a more consistent at-home routine that supported the professional treatments I’ve now been getting regularly for the past two years. These treatments are mainly aimed at tackling my pigmentation and slowing the march of time across my face but their effectiveness is definitely improved when I’m diligent about the products I use at home. I still don’t have a set “routine” in the sense that I use the exact same products every…

Five Tips for Melt-Proof Makeup

My face will use any excuse to turn my T-zone into an oil slick, although admittedly it’s much better than it used to be (see notes on dehydration below). The hot weather only makes it worse but as it’s a problem I’ve struggled with for most of my life, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks along the way that definitely help to stop your makeup sliding off your face. Using the right products at every step of the process can make a huge difference to the longevity of your face makeup, and I’ve found that the most effective strategy…

NEW: Environ Focus Care Range

Environ Focus Care range

Anyone who has ever complimented Camilla on her skin would have heard her rave about Environ; it’s a brand that she has used consistently for years and a range that has completely transformed her skin. Designed by industry legend, Dr. Des Fernandes, and researched and developed in South Africa, Environ is a professional line (which is why you can’t buy it online – you need to have a consultation so the right products can be recommended for you) based on the power of vitamin A to slow the signs of ageing. You can find out more about the fascinating science…