Are your days blurring into one lately? Do you have no idea what day it is? You’re not alone. There’s a limited amount of ‘new’ in our lives right now, which is why we were extra excited for favourites this month. Escentual’s ‘what’s new’ page is bursting with innovative launches to keep things fresh, and the team has found a few you don’t want to miss…
#1 The Healthy Glow Serum
Hydration? No, never heard of it. If my skin could speak, that’s what it would have said on repeat last month. It was as if all the moisture was zapped from my skin. It looked dull, uneven, and all the fines lines around my eyes, and on my forehead stepped right into the spotlight. I didn’t take it lying down, of course. I knew my hero would be hyaluronic acid, so I turned to Eucerin’s shiny new Moisture Boost. The name was what initially drew me to it, but when I read up on its formula, my eyes lit up. It contains high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, which work like magnets to attract moisture – a recipe for a plump and nourished complexion. And the texture is incredible; not only does it feel like a big drink of water when applied, but it’s ultra-soothing and extraordinarily glowy. Skin exudes health from the minute you pop it on, and although it does absorb quickly, it leaves a thin layer behind, which looks radiant and makes a great makeup base.
#2 The Dry Hand Hero
I love the original, Avene Cicalfate cream, so when I heard it had been reformulated, I was worried that it wouldn’t give me the same repairing results. After trying Cicalfalte+, my doubts vanished. And, when I took a closer look, I discovered that Avene states it’s 30% more effective and has an improved water-in-oil texture for healing – so, it’s even better than it was before!
For me, this new release has come just at the right time as I’ve been washing my hands a lot more recently, and, as a result, they’ve become dry, sore and cracked. So, I’ve found the Avene Cicalfate+’s creamy and moisturising texture a life-saver these past few weeks. Re-applied a few times a day, it softens, repairs and soothes my overwashed hands. And, when they’re very dry, I apply a thick layer on my hands before bed and pull a sock over them (you can use cotton gloves) to keep in the moisture. It sounds pretty weird, but once you’ve tried it you’ll thank me!
#3 The Anti-Ageing Starter Set
It’s as if the hydration has been zapped from my skin these past few weeks. It’s looked dull, uneven, and fine lines around the eyes, and on my forehand have been more visible than ever.
I know that you’re supposed to give gifts to other people, but it’s also important to treat yourself – and for me, gift sets are the perfect solution! Although I’m admittedly not using anti-ageing products just yet, I know it’s only a matter of time – which is why Filorga’s gift set caught my eye this month.
The thing I love about this set is that each product works towards the same goal; to effectively target dark circles, bags and wrinkles to create a more youthful, radiant look. I’d hate to commit to an anti-ageing moisturiser if my eye contour gave me away, which is why I’ve been so impressed by this all-round, multitasking gift set. And although results drive Filorga, this chic gift set still feels like a luxurious treat, which we all deserve now and then!
#4 The Bold New Scent
I love a strong, woody note in a fragrance; particularly one that keeps things fresh with some zesty, fruity notes as well, so when the new Tommy Hilfiger Impact landed on my desk, I was sold at first spray! With top notes including red apple and grapefruit, along with an earthy heart of cypress, and a smoky base featuring amber and cedarwood, this Eau de Toilette does make an impression. The 100ml even includes an additional travel size 4ml vial that’s hidden in the T-shaped lid, which means I can take the fragrance with me wherever I go – when we’re all allowed outside again!
#5 The Lipstick Pick-Me-Up
Dior’s new lipstick launches always make me feel sparkly and light, and this month’s launch of Halo Shine Lip Balm was exactly the pick-me-up I needed (and deserved). Halo Shine is a luxurious treat for everyone, but a must-have for any collector. The rainbow reflective chrome case, its signature DIOR imprint and the nonchalant ”click” it makes are the cherries on top of the conditioning colour inside.
After looking around at the swatches, I picked 723 Blessing Star. Of all 16 shades, I love its peachy, but nude-brown shade for spring the most. I pare it back with one coat for daytime, and I’ve even messed around using it with a darker liner to see what it will look like for night, and it’s perfect – I feel like I’ve found two lipsticks in one.
#6 The Next-Generation Water Spray
I have to admit, I’ve never been the biggest fan of mist sprays – I always thought they were a nice addition to my skincare regime but not an absolute necessity. The Eucerin Hyaluron Spray has changed that for me forever! From the first use, I couldn’t believe how soft and hydrated my skin felt, even hours after spraying it. I’ll put that down to it containing hyaluronic acid and glycerin! The unique formula is ultra-fine, refreshing, and instantly absorbs into the skin, but skin feels soft and plump long after application – you can tell that it’s been moisturised deep within.
I couldn’t believe the difference this face mist made to my skin from the get-go. I will be spritzing my way to healthy, soft and hydrated skin for a long time to come with the Hyaluron Spray!
#7 The At-Home Facial
Even before I started working at Escentual, I was obsessed with Vichy Mineral 89 Serum because of its ability to make my skin look smooth and hydrated, as well as providing an excellent base for makeup. Then, came Vichy Mineral 89 Eyes – which only cemented my obsession further; it’s the only thing that sorts out my puffy morning eyes. So, you can imagine my excitement when I found out Vichy had plans to release a sheet-mask full of skin-quenching Mineral 89 goodness!
Since most of us are spending a lot of time at home at the moment, where skin seems to be getting drier by the day, this new launch couldn’t have arrived at a better time. I have dry skin anyway, but the beauty of this sheet mask is it’s suitable for all skin types. If your complexion looks tired and dull, or fine lines and wrinkles look more prominent than usual – this is a great mask to pop on for ten minutes. Unlike other sheet masks that can feel flimsy and fall off the face easily, this one hugs every contour and stays put. The hyaluronic acid gets to work on your skin to hydrate, revitalise and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier (top tip – pop it in the fridge beforehand to make this mask even more refreshing!). I love it as a quick fix to make my complexion look smooth and plump, and to banish those pesky lines on my forehead!
Intrigued by the Mineral 89 Serum? Read the review here.
#8 The Hair Colour Booster
If like me, you’re someone who dyes their hair, you’ll know it takes quite a lot of maintenance. Now more than ever, without the luxury of being able to pop to my local salon, I’ve found myself needing a product that can quench my hair, to keep it looking glossy and the colour vibrant. That’s why I’m so grateful for – and why my favourite this month is the Schwarzkopf Professional BC Bonacure Color Freeze Liquid Shine. I’ve used it for just over a fortnight, and I’ve seen such a huge difference in the health of my hair. The colour retention I’ve gained since using it is nothing short of amazing! It’s my new ‘miracle’ purchase, and I’ll be using it long after lockdown ends! It’s so easy to use; apply two pumps to towel-dried hair – and that’s it! It leaves hair feeling nourished and soft. If you’ve found yourself in a similar situation to me, I highly recommend you try this serum; your hair will thank you later!
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Want more new? See our March Beauty Favourites picks here.
