Tried & Tested | REN Invisible Pores Detox Mask

This was in my LookFantastic haul a few weeks back.  I have used it for roughly four weeks now.  It's a creamy clay formula and has a subtle fragrance.  I applied a thin layer with my fingers on cleansed skin.  I don't like applying it really thick because then masks take forever to dry!  I waited around for 40 minutes, it did dry before that.  Then I with a wet flannel, I wiped the mask off.

Initial thoughts - my skin looked a little brighter. 

Closer inspection - pores around my nose appeared cleaner.  Although I don't have full-on blackhead problems, I still get clogged pores around my nose.  It seemed to address this issue.

As clay masks go, this is a good one.  REN is a trusted skincare brand in my book, and I trust the ingredients in it.  I haven't had adverse reactions and definitely the last few weeks, my skin has been calm (which is unnatural for my skin!).  So credit where credit is due! Bravo REN!

Have you used REN detox mask or any other REN products?

Mega Haul | Paris & London

After stressful exams followed by a relaxing break in London & Paris - a haul was definitely going to happen!  I've spent an obscene amount of money, and now will be surviving on air for the rest of the year :-|

Because I knew I was going to Paris, I've been saving up to stock up on skincare. And stock up I did!  Most of the products were recommendations from Lisa Eldridge and Caroline Hirons - big enablers.

Paris

Paris and London haul

• Bioderma Crealine H2O Micellar Solution

No introduction required, if you haven't heard of this - where have you been?!  Make-up remover, does its job superbly.  I have heard it's not very good at removing waterproof mascara, but I don't use waterproof  mascara, so I love this.  You can find it in the UK now, but hell of a lot cheaper in Paris!

• Bioderma Hand Cream

This was an impulse buy near the counter, needed a hand cream so picked it up.  50ml for 1.50 euro, yes please!

• L'Occitane Hand Cream (not pictured)

Another impulse buy, really liked the fragrance.  I'm a sucker for L'Occitane hand creams.

• Nuxe Reve De Miel Lip Balm

I think every blogger and their dog has raved about this.  I needed to know what the fuss was all about.  Again this can be bought in the UK, but at double the price.

• Embryolisse Hydra Mask

This is not the 'cult' product from Embryolisse, but I wanted something that my skin needed. Once I've tried it a few times, I will review in full.

• Phyto Botanical Leave-in Conditioner

A favourite of Lisa Eldridge's and dear God she can sell me anything! 

• La Roche-Posay Serozinc

This is Mrs. Hirons' doing, and can't be bought in the UK.  This is part of her 2-step toning process.  Really keen to try it and see how it effects the hydration level of my skin.

• Cattier Green Clay Mask

Again, Mrs. Hirons is to blame. This is amazingly cheap, 2.99 euro!! I would've bought more if I could carry! I got the green clay version for oily skin, there are 2 other variations for dry & sensitive skin.  Full review will follow.

• Caudalie Shower Gel

Loved the fragrance, good deal.  What else can be said about shower gel?! Haha!

London

• Origins Facial Treats Set (includes full size Drink-up Overnight Mask & travel size Microdermabrasion exfoliator)

This set is £28 and there was an extra 10% off so had to snap it up.  I've been meaning to purchase this mask for a while.  Full review will follow, **spolier alert** I've used it once and it's fab!

• PIXI Glow Tonic

I needed to stock up on this bad boy, seeing as I can only get my hands on it at London.  I like this as a toner because it doesn't feel harsh on my skin i.e. there is no strong astringent-like smell (I'm looking at you Clinique!).  Although it must be noted, not a fan of the smell of this one either,  but definitely better than normal toners.  I have seen difference on the surface of my skin, it feels smoother to touch and my pores do not get clogged as much.  So definite winner for me.

• Kiko Gel Top Coat

I haven;t tried anything from Kiko yet, but I remember Miss Budget Beauty mentioning how much she liked this, and it was on half price! I will be trying this soon, and let you know my thoughts.

• Kiko Nail Lacquer in 391

This was also in the sale, can't go wrong with £2.50!! I have been looking for a bright green nail polish and this ticked the box.

• Forever21 Necklaces

I do love F21 jewellery, their price is unbeatable.  Not much to say about these really, bargain price and I love them!