Pixi Perfect Glow Kit: Achieve Radiant Skin with Pixi Skincare

If your skin has been looking a little lacklustre lately, the Pixi Perfect Glow Kit might be exactly what you need. Designed to deliver smooth, bright, and healthy-looking skin, this four-step collection combines Pixi’s best-selling glow-boosting products into one easy routine. With formulas powered by glycolic acid, fruit enzymes, and nourishing botanical extracts, it’s a complete regimen for anyone who wants that signature Pixi glow.

What’s Inside the Perfect Glow Kit

The kit includes four of Pixi’s most-loved products:

• Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel
• Peel & Polish
• Glow Tonic
• Glow Mist

Each product plays a key role in cleansing, exfoliating, toning, and hydrating — a full routine for smooth, luminous skin.

Why Choose Pixi for a Glow Routine

Pixi is known for its results-driven yet gentle formulas. The products are designed to enhance the skin’s natural radiance without irritation, making them ideal for everyday use. Each step in this routine works together to cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and protect — the four pillars of glowing, healthy skin.

Step 1: Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel

This cleanser is the perfect way to start your routine. Formulated with the Moisclean Complex, it effectively removes dirt, impurities, and excess oil without leaving the skin tight or dry. The addition of glycolic acid gently exfoliates, helping to dissolve dead skin cells, while horse chestnut extract soothes and brightens the complexion. Aloe vera adds a touch of hydration, keeping the skin calm and balanced.

How to use: Massage a small amount onto damp skin morning and evening, then rinse with warm water.

Key ingredients:

• Glycolic Acid – brightens and refines texture

• Aloe Vera – calms and hydrates

• Horse Chestnut Extract – smooths and revitalises

Ideal for: Daily cleansing that leaves skin soft, clean, and glowing.

Step 2: Peel & Polish

The Pixi Peel & Polish is a cult-favourite exfoliating treatment that gives instant results. It combines lactic acid, a gentle AHA, with papaya enzyme extract to break down dull surface cells. Meanwhile, sugar cane extract naturally resurfaces and promotes cell renewal. Together, these ingredients reveal a brighter, more polished complexion without harsh scrubbing.

How to use: Apply a thin layer to clean skin, leave for two minutes to let the enzymes work, then gently massage with fingertips before rinsing off.

Key ingredients:

• Lactic Acid – exfoliates for smoother skin

• Papaya Extract – boosts radiance and clarity

• Sugar Cane Extract – promotes gentle cell turnover

Ideal for: Weekly exfoliation to maintain a healthy glow and refined texture.

Step 3: Glow Tonic

The world-famous Pixi Glow Tonic is at the heart of this kit. This toner uses 5% glycolic acid to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, revealing a more even, radiant complexion. It’s enriched with aloe vera to soothe and hydrate, and ginseng to energise and improve circulation for that natural glow.

How to use: After cleansing, apply with a cotton pad over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Use once daily, ideally at night.

Key ingredients:

• Glycolic Acid (5%) – gently exfoliates

• Aloe Vera – soothes and hydrates

• Ginseng – revitalises and energises the skin

Ideal for: Smoother texture, refined pores, and an overall brighter complexion.

Step 4: Glow Mist

To finish the routine, the Pixi Glow Mist delivers hydration, protection, and a natural dewy glow. This bi-phase mist combines propolis extract (a natural antioxidant) with rose flower oil and lavender oil to nourish and soothe. It also contains aloe vera and argan oil to condition the skin and impart a healthy sheen. Perfect for setting makeup or refreshing the skin throughout the day.

How to use: Shake well, then spritz over face before or after makeup, or whenever your skin needs a boost.

Key ingredients:

• Propolis Extract – rich in antioxidants to protect skin

• Rose Flower Oil – softens and hydrates

• Aloe Vera & Argan Oil – nourish and condition

Ideal for: Hydration, setting makeup, and achieving an instant glow.

Final Thoughts

The Pixi Perfect Glow Kit offers a comprehensive skincare regimen that caters to various skin needs. By incorporating these products into your daily routine, you can achieve a radiant and healthy complexion. Whether you're new to Pixi or looking to enhance your skincare collection, this kit, which is on sale now, provides the essentials for glowing skin.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

What Conditions Can Be Treated with CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

Image Credit

CO2 laser resurfacing in its fractional form is one of the most advanced treatments for skin rejuvenation. By carefully removing damaged layers of skin and stimulating natural collagen production, it can improve a wide range of concerns while restoring a healthier and more youthful complexion.

How CO2 Laser Resurfacing Works

A CO2 laser delivers controlled beams of energy that target the surface and deeper layers of the skin. This process removes old or damaged cells while encouraging new skin to regenerate. At the same time, the heat created by the laser stimulates collagen, which helps tighten and smooth the skin over time.

Conditions Treatable with CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Wrinkles and Fine Lines

One of the most popular uses of CO2 laser resurfacing is to reduce the appearance of fine lines and deeper wrinkles. Areas such as around the eyes, mouth and forehead often respond very well to treatment.

Sun Damage and Pigmentation

Exposure to the sun can cause uneven tone, sunspots and rough texture. CO2 laser resurfacing helps remove these damaged layers and encourages clearer, more even skin.

Acne Scars and Other Scars

Scarring, whether from acne, surgery or injury, can leave lasting marks on the skin. CO2 laser resurfacing remodels scar tissue, blending it more smoothly with the surrounding skin and improving overall texture.

Skin Laxity and Uneven Texture

By stimulating collagen production, CO2 laser resurfacing can help with mild skin laxity and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores or rough areas, leaving the skin smoother and more refined.

Benign Skin Growths

Some benign growths such as warts, milia or keratoses can also be treated effectively with the precision of a CO2 laser, removing them while protecting nearby healthy tissue.

Rhinophyma

For people with rhinophyma, where the nose tissue thickens due to rosacea, CO2 laser resurfacing can reshape the area and improve both function and appearance.

Actinic Keratoses

These rough, scaly patches caused by long-term sun exposure are considered precancerous and can be safely treated with CO2 laser resurfacing.

What to Expect

Treatment is usually carried out with a numbing cream or local anaesthetic for comfort. After the procedure, redness, swelling and peeling are common for several days as the skin heals. Results continue to improve over the following weeks as collagen rebuilds. Protecting the skin from the sun and following aftercare advice are vital to achieve the best outcome.

Choosing a Clinic in London

If you are considering CO2 laser resurfacing in London, it is important to choose an experienced clinic that offers personalised treatment plans. A professional consultation will ensure the procedure is tailored to your skin type and concerns, while expert aftercare will help you achieve safe and lasting results.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Elizabeth Grant Torricelumn Absolute Cleansing Balm

For those who regularly see my posts on Instagram and here on my blog, you will be all too aware that I adore Cleansing Balms and cleansing is my absolute favourite part of my skincare routine. If you’re in search of a luxurious first cleanse that melts away makeup while pampering your skin, the Elizabeth Grant Torricelumn Absolute Cleansing Balm might just be it. I’ve been testing this balm and here’s what stood out — texture, performance, and whether it lives up to the hype.

Right out of the tub, it’s a rich balm — thick, solid, with a buttery feel. When you scoop it out, it glides easily across the skin. As you massage it (especially over dry skin or makeup), it transforms into a silky, smooth oil. 

The balm-to-oil transition is satisfying: it spreads, melts down makeup (even stubborn eye makeup), and rinses off cleanly (or wipes away if you use a face puff) without leaving a greasy residue. Skin feels soft, supple, not tight or stripped.

Key Features & Benefits

• Makeup Removal: Excellent at removing face, eye, and lip makeup. Waterproof mascara comes off with a gentle massage + rinse or wipe.
• Gentle Cleansing: Despite its rich texture, it doesn’t feel harsh. Good for sensitive, dry, combination, or oily skin, depending how you use it.
• Skin Feel: Leaves skin feeling comfortable—soft, smooth, with a slight glow from hydration rather than oiliness.
• Aromatherapy Edge: Infused with calming essential oils like lavender, red rose, jasmine, neroli, frankincense, and a touch of lemongrass. The scent is luxurious and floral-herbal; if you’re sensitive to fragrance, you may notice it.
• Hydration & Nourishment: Moisturising ingredients help prevent that post-cleanse tightness. Great for preventing dehydration.

Ingredients Spotlight

The Torricelumn Absolute Cleansing Balm combines powerful, skin-loving ingredients to cleanse, nourish, and protect. Its star, Torricelumn™, targets five key signs of aging, while coconut oil melts away makeup and deeply nourishes. Moringa seed extract gently purifies with mild antibacterial benefits, and aloe vera soothes and calms the skin. 

Additional actives like sodium hyaluronate for hydration, panthenol, allantoin, and botanical extracts such as chamomile support skin recovery and maintain a soft, radiant complexion.

Who’s It For & How to Use

It works well for a wide range of skin types: dry, dehydrated, normal, combination. Even those with oily or sensitive skin should be okay — just make sure to fully rinse or double cleanse.

Use fingertips to massage a generous amount onto dry or slightly damp skin, focusing on areas with makeup, sunscreen etc. Then rinse with warm water or wipe off with a reusable face puff. (Some prefer following with a foaming or gel cleanser if you double cleanse.)

Use morning and/or night depending on your routine. Personally, I prefer it in the evening for cleansing off the day.

Final Verdict

Overall, the Torricelumn Absolute Cleansing Balm is a high-end cleansing balm that delivers both in performance and sensorial experience. If you value a luxurious cleansing ritual, like rich textures, and care for your skin’s comfort and nourishment, this is a strong contender. If you’re sensitive to fragrance or want a super minimalist formula, you might prefer something simpler.

On sale for £40

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

HYPO21 Purifying Skin Spray 100ml – Clean Meets Clinical

Every now and then, something lands on my desk that makes me think: Where have you been all my life? That’s exactly how I felt when I first picked up the HYPO21 Purifying Skin Spray.

Now, I’ve tried my fair share of skincare over the years—creams, serums, oils, potions that promise the world and deliver about as much as my houseplants after I’ve “forgotten” to water them for a week. But this one? Well, it’s different.

What Is It?
HYPO21 is basically skincare in its simplest, purest form. Inside that 100ml bottle is just 100% pure hypochlorous acid—don’t be scared by the science-y name. Your body actually makes HOCl naturally to fight bacteria and calm inflammation. So, we’re talking nature and science having a little love affair, bottled up for your face.

It’s alcohol-free, fragrance-free, preservative-free, and completely non-toxic. Plus, it’s vegan and safe for all skin types, ages, and even those moments when your skin is crying out for something gentle after a salon peel.

How I Used It
I kept it simple—just a few spritzes morning and night after cleansing. That’s it. No rubbing, no faffing about. I also carried it in my bag because I’m one of those people who likes to “freshen up” during the day… especially when the office heat is doing its best impression of the Sahara Desert, so on comes the air con and whilst I might be cool, my skin is not best pleased.

What Happened
Week 1 – My cheeks were less red, my skin felt calmer, and those angry little hormonal spots? Not quite as dramatic.

Week 3 – Skin texture looked smoother, makeup went on better, and I found myself using less concealer and getting less annoying where makeup was sticking to dry patches.

Week 6 – this is where I am now. There is Less redness and  less irritation, so I’m excited to see what happens next with continued use.

And it’s not just me—clinical trials show HYPO21 has an 85% success rate for acne, 81% for eczema, and 84% for rosacea. Not too shabby.

The Verdict
HYPO21 is the kind of product that quietly works its magic without making a song and dance about it. It’s clean, gentle, effective, and basically idiot-proof to use.

If your skin is prone to throwing tantrums—be it acne, redness, dryness, or just post-treatment sensitivity—this is worth having in your stash. It’s one of those “how did I live without it?” products.

Would I buy it? 100% yes.

If you want it, you can grab it from the HYPO21 website or via some of the top skin clinics in the UK.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Megababe’s Scent-sational Deo Trio & Space Bar: The Ultimate Underarm Care Collection

If you're searching for underarm care that truly works—keeping you fresh, clean, and comfortable—then Megababe’s Scent-sational Deo Trio paired with the Space Bar Underarm Soap might just be your new go-to duo. 

These two work hand in hand to cleanse, nourish, and protect your pits with care and confidence and they're on sale at Cult Beauty!

About Megababe

Founded by Katie Sturino, Megababe is a brand that puts comfort, efficacy, and a touch of fun at the heart of everyday body care. From anti-chafe sticks to their much-loved deodorants, each product is designed to treat your skin kindly while tackling real-life issues.

The Scent-sational Deo Trio: Freshness and Skincare in One. The trio includes three signature deodorants:

• Rosy Pits
  A feminine, fresh floral scent that feels like a bouquet of wild roses on a sunny day. Light and uplifting, it’s perfect for everyday wear when you want a subtle, elegant fragrance.

• Sunny Pits
  Bright, juicy and vibrant, this one smells like a tropical fruit salad with notes of peach and citrus. It’s cheerful and energising, ideal for mornings when you want a refreshing pick-me-up.

• The Geo Deo
  Clean, crisp and understated, this scent offers a fresh, almost mineral-like aroma with soft herbal undertones. If you prefer something subtle and unisex, this is the one to reach for.

These deodorants are aluminium-free, baking soda-free, and free from parabens and phthalates, making them ideal for sensitive skin. They glide on smoothly without any sticky residue and provide long-lasting odour control.

Ingredient Highlights:

• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil – moisturise and soothe.
• Magnesium Hydroxide, Tapioca Starch, Zinc Oxide, Zinc Ricinoleate – absorb moisture and neutralise odour.
• Oat Flour and Lactobacillus Ferment – calm and protect delicate skin.
• Sea Buckthorn Oil and Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C derivative) – antioxidant-rich to refresh and repair.
• Essential oils like Peppermint and Cedarwood Bark Oil – add natural fragrance and a refreshing boost.

The Space Bar Underarm Soap: Deep Cleanse and Detox
The Space Bar is a charcoal-based underarm soap that deeply cleanses and detoxifies. It has a fresh, herbal aroma with bright hints of tea tree and peppermint, which help awaken your senses while gently purifying your skin.

The combination of activated charcoal, tea tree oil and gentle exfoliants leaves your underarms feeling squeaky clean and ready for deodorant application

Key Ingredients:

• Activated Charcoal – draws out impurities and detoxifies.
• Tea Tree Oil – antibacterial, helps prevent odour-causing bacteria.
• Glycolic Acid – gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells.
• Vitamin C (Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate) – brightens and revitalises.
• Kaolin Clay – absorbs excess oils and purifies skin.
• Coconut Oil and Shea Butter – moisturise and nourish.

How to Use:

Lather the bar into your underarms, gently massage in circular motions, and leave on for about 60 seconds before rinsing. Use daily for best results and to keep your pits feeling fresh and clean.

Why I Love Them

Together, this collection provides a full underarm routine: the Space Bar detoxes and cleanses while the Scent-sational Deo Trio keeps odour at bay with nourishing, gentle formulas and beautiful scents. Users love how soft and refreshed their underarms feel, even after a long day.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an effective, skin-loving underarm routine, Megababe’s Scent-sational Deo Trio and Space Bar Underarm Soap deliver just that. Clean ingredients, lovely scents, and skincare benefits make these essentials a must-try for anyone wanting fresh, happy pits.

Have you tried them yet? Let me know your thoughts!

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Why Dermatologists Are Turning to Growth Factors for Skin Repair

Growth factors are gaining attention as patients seek faster and more effective healing solutions through treatments like microneedling. While traditional methods such as retinol, peptides, and basic hyaluronic acid serums have long been used, dermatologists are increasingly turning to something more potent: growth factors for skin repair.

This article will explain how growth factors function, why they are the new stars of professional skincare, and why consulting a dermatologist will help you maximise their potential. Whether you’re battling scars or fine lines or want healthier skin, growth factors might be your answer.

How It Works

Growth factors are proteins that your body produces to help cells communicate and repair damage. Cells such as keratinocytes and fibroblasts reside within your skin and play key roles in regeneration. They act like messengers, telling cells to grow, divide, and heal, keeping your skin firm and healthy.

As you age, your skin makes fewer growth factors, slowing down repair and leading to wrinkles or slower healing. Topical growth factors, applied through serums or creams, can replenish this loss, boosting your skin’s natural regenerative ability.

How Growth Factors Work in Skin Repair

Growth factors are like a repair crew for your skin, working in several ways:

• Collagen and Elastin Production: They signal fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, proteins that keep your skin firm and elastic, reducing wrinkles.

• Angiogenesis: They promote the formation of new blood vessels, ensuring your skin gets the necessary nutrients for repair.

• Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration: Growth factors accelerate healing by stimulating the growth of new skin cells, making them ideal for scars or post-treatment recovery.

The Rise of Growth Factors in Professional Skincare

The global microneedling market is expected to reach USD 1.1 billion by 2031, growing at a 7.8% CAGR between 2021 and 2031. This surge is being driven by rising demand for minimally invasive cosmetic procedures that provide effective results with little downtime.

Why the Rise?

• Minimally Invasive: Microneedling offers a less aggressive alternative to surgical procedures.

• Effective Results: It addresses various skin concerns, including scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

• Enhanced Product Absorption: The micro-channels created during the procedure allow for deeper penetration of topical treatments.

Integration with Growth Factors

The treatment's efficacy is amplified when combined with professional microneedling serums enriched with growth factors. The micro-injuries facilitate deeper delivery of these serums, enhancing collagen regeneration and accelerating healing.

Many dermatologists now recommend pairing microneedling with a stem cell serum to boost the rejuvenation process. These serums often contain potent growth factors derived from stem cells, which help restore youthful vitality by activating the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.

Benefits of Growth Factors in Professional Skin Repair

Growth factors offer a range of benefits that make them stand out:

• Enhanced Collagen and Elastin Synthesis: You'll notice a visible improvement in skin firmness and elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Accelerated Wound Healing and Scar Reduction: For those dealing with acne scars, surgical scars, or the aftermath of intense treatments, growth factors can significantly speed up healing and minimise the visibility of scars.

• Improved Skin Barrier Function: Growth factors help strengthen your skin's natural protective barrier, making it more resilient against environmental stressors and reducing sensitivity.

• Reduced Inflammation and Redness: Growth factors can be calming and soothing if you experience post-procedure redness or have inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea.

• Synergistic Effects with Professional Treatments: As mentioned earlier, growth factors work beautifully alongside treatments like microneedling, laser therapy, and chemical peels. They enhance the skin's recovery process, amplify the treatment's benefits, and contribute to more impressive outcomes.

Dermatologist Expertise and the Application of Growth Factors

You need a dermatologist's expertise to get the most out of growth factors. Here’s why:

• The Importance of Professional Assessment: A dermatologist can accurately diagnose your specific skin concerns and determine if growth factor-based treatments are the right approach for you.

• Customised Treatment Plans: Dermatologists can tailor the selection of specific growth factors and their application based on your skin type, concerns, and professional treatment you're receiving.

• Ensuring Safety and Efficacy: You can trust that dermatologists use high-quality, professional-grade growth factor products and adhere to established protocols, maximising safety and results.

• Addressing Potential Concerns and Side Effects: Your dermatologist can discuss any potential risks or limitations associated with growth factor use and manage them effectively.

Real-World Applications and Case Studies

Growth factors are not just theoretical; they produce real-world results. Here are some compelling examples:

• Microneedling Study (2018): Eight patients with photodamage applied a growth factor gel after microneedling. Seven showed improved texture, fine lines, and wrinkles, with no significant side effects, according to PubMed Central.

• CALECIM® Professional with PTT-6®: CALECIM® harnesses potent exosomes and growth factors from ethically sourced umbilical cord stem cells. Their patented PTT-6®, rich in EGF, VEGF, and TGF, replenishes vital skin bio-signals. It has been clinically proven to accelerate post-laser healing and stimulate the growth of new skin cells, resulting in the appearance of fresher, younger skin. This stem cell serum stands out for its scientific backing and visible clinical results.

These cases show how growth factors deliver measurable improvements, especially in professional treatments.

Skin Repair with Growth Factors

Growth factors are transforming dermatology by providing effective solutions for skin repair and rejuvenation. As the microneedling market grows, integrating growth factors into professional treatments promises enhanced outcomes for patients seeking effective, minimally invasive skin care solutions.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Balancing oral care and skincare for radiant beauty

Achieving a radiant smile and glowing skin involves harmonizing your oral care and skincare routines. These two aspects of beauty are interconnected, influencing each other in significant ways. Embrace a balanced approach for enhanced beauty and well-being.

Exploring the relationship between oral health and skincare reveals a holistic path to beauty. Both routines are essential for maintaining not just appearance but overall health. By balancing your approach, you can achieve a dazzling smile alongside a luminous complexion. Integrating elements like Invisalign in South Wales into your regimen can further enhance your journey towards radiant beauty.

The connection between oral health and skincare

Understanding the connection between oral health and skincare begins with recognizing how each influences the other. Oral health issues can manifest in your skin, with inflammation in the gums potentially leading to skin problems like acne or dullness. Conversely, poor skincare habits might exacerbate oral health issues by allowing bacteria to flourish.

Maintaining a harmonious routine ensures both your smile and skin remain vibrant. This balance helps reduce inflammation, controls bacteria, and promotes healing across different areas of the body. A healthy mouth supports clear skin, while well-cared-for skin reflects internal wellness, creating an outward glow.

By synchronizing these care routines, you cultivate an environment where both can thrive. This synergy amplifies the effects of each practice, enhancing your natural beauty in a way that's both visible and sustainable. This holistic approach not only boosts physical appearance but also instills confidence, knowing you are nurturing your body from inside out.

Research has shown that the oral microbiome directly impacts skin health through various inflammatory pathways. When oral bacteria become imbalanced, they can trigger systemic inflammation that manifests as skin issues like rosacea or premature aging. Additionally, poor oral hygiene can lead to increased oxidative stress throughout the body, potentially accelerating the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin. Understanding these biological connections helps emphasize why maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for achieving optimal skin health.

Practical tips for synchronized care

Integrating oral care with skincare involves selecting products that complement each other. Opt for gentle, non-abrasive toothpaste that won't irritate your skin if contact occurs. Similarly, choose skincare products that support healthy microbiomes without interfering with dental hygiene.

Your daily routine should include regular brushing and flossing paired with cleansing and moisturizing regimes for your face. Consistency is key; ensuring each step is performed diligently prevents issues before they arise. Pay attention to ingredients like fluoride or zinc oxide, which benefit both teeth and skin.

Lifestyle choices play a critical role in this synergy. A diet rich in vitamins like C and E supports collagen production, benefiting both oral tissues and skin elasticity. Adequate hydration is essential, aiding in flushing toxins that could impact either area negatively. Incorporating these habits fosters an environment where beauty thrives naturally.

Innovative solutions for enhanced beauty

Exploring innovative solutions like discreet teeth alignment options complements a holistic beauty approach. Treatments such as Invisalign subtly enhance your smile without disrupting your aesthetic goals. These solutions work harmoniously within an integrated routine, offering aesthetic improvements alongside functional benefits.

Such advancements provide confidence through discreet adjustments that align with personal style preferences. They ensure comfort while progressively perfecting dental alignment over time. This aligns seamlessly with the desire for comprehensive beauty care that doesn't compromise on effectiveness or visibility.

By embracing these modern innovations, you invest in long-term health benefits that transcend mere aesthetics. These solutions represent progress in dental technology aimed at enhancing life quality without detracting from natural beauty pursuits. Such approaches highlight the potential of combining traditional care methods with cutting-edge advancements.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Healing Bruises & Supporting Skin Recovery with SBC Skincare’s Arnica Gel & Prolagel

A few weeks ago, I experienced a pretty unexpected and painful trauma to my underarm (yes, it was as awful as it sounds — and if you're curious, I’ve included some photos below). Between the swelling, bruising, and general discomfort, I knew I needed more than just rest and ice. So, I reached out to two people I really trust for skincare and wellness advice.

Both gave me the exact same recommendation:

• SBC Skincare Arnica Gel during the day
• SBC’s new Prolagel at night

I’ve loved SBC products for a while, so I had no hesitation. Here's how I used both — and why I’ll keep them in my recovery kit from now on.

Step 1: Arnica Gel – Daytime Relief & Soothing

What it is:

A lightweight, fast-absorbing gel enriched with Arnica Montana extract. Known for its calming, anti-inflammatory properties, Arnica is often recommended for bruises, muscle aches, tension, and post-exercise soreness.

How I used it:

Applied it generously to the affected area 2–3 times during the day. It absorbed quickly, wasn’t sticky, and instantly soothed that deep, dull ache from the bruising.

Over a few days, I noticed the swelling start to reduce, and the dark purple tones faded faster than I expected.

It’s become a go-to for any general body soreness now — not just injury-related!

Step 2: Prolagel – Nighttime Recovery & Skin Firming

What it is:

A new addition to the SBC range, Prolagel is also a lightweight gel — but this one is focused on visibly firming, toning, and supporting areas with sagging or stretched skin. It’s packed with Proline, an amino acid that promotes collagen production — making it ideal for healing, post-weight-loss skin, or after pregnancy.

How I used it:

I applied Prolagel before bed, once the Arnica had fully absorbed. It helped keep the area moisturized overnight and supported the skin’s natural repair process.

Over a couple of weeks, the bruising had mostly faded, and the skin in that area felt firmer and looked smoother.

As you can see, over a short-period of time, things started to really improve and the end result is no bruise, no swelling and no marks left on the skin.

Why Use Both Products Together?

Using these two products together really sped up the healing process. Here's why the combo works so well:

Arnica Gel and Prolagel together

• Calms inflammation and reduces discomfort 
• Supports skin elasticity and firmness
• Targets bruising, swelling, muscle tension 
• Helps improve the appearance of scars and stretched skin
• Great for daytime use 
• Perfect for overnight recovery, it is non-greasy, absorbs fast, lightweight, deeply hydrating

If you're recovering from an injury, dealing with muscle fatigue, or supporting post-weight loss or post-baby skin, this combo is a game-changer.

Final Thoughts

I’m always cautious about what I recommend — but SBC Skincare’s Arnica Gel and Prolagel are genuinely two of the best products I’ve used for real, visible results. Whether you're managing bruises, body tension, or loose skin, this duo delivers.

I’ll never be without them again.

Have you tried SBC’s gels? Drop your experience in the comments — or reach out if you have questions about how I used them.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Is Aldi’s New Skincare Range a Tatcha Dupe? I Tried It to Find Out

Aldi’s New Japanese-Inspired Skincare Range: Tatcha Dupes for Just £4.99?

In the ever-growing world of skincare, budget-friendly dupes are always a hot topic — and Aldi has entered the chat once again. This time, they’ve launched a new Japanese-inspired skincare line under their Lacura brand, and beauty lovers are already comparing it to the luxury favourite, Tatcha.

I tried two of the standout products from the range: the Lacura Matcha Gel Wash and the Lacura Rice Cleanser, both retailing at an affordable £4.99. Here's how they performed.

Lacura Matcha Gel Wash – £4.99

From the moment I squeezed this out of the tube, I was impressed by the jelly-like texture — a trend that’s very much in right now. It felt cooling and refreshing on my fingertips, which instantly gave it that spa-like feel.

This cleanser is powered by willow bark (a natural source of salicylic acid that’s excellent for combating acne), matcha tea, and mugwort extract, a trio known for their soothing and revitalising properties. According to Aldi, it’s designed to revive tired, dull skin for a more radiant complexion — and it definitely gave my skin a much-needed refresh.

Once water was added, the cleanser foamed quickly and effortlessly broke down makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime. What I loved most was the transformation from foam to a light, milky lather. It rinsed off easily and left my skin feeling clean but not dry — a rare feat for a foaming wash.

My verdict: A fantastic daily cleanser for normal to oily skin, especially if you're after a gentle but effective wash that doesn’t strip your skin.

Lacura Rice Cleanser – £4.99

Next up was the Rice Cleanser, which is inspired by traditional Japanese skincare rituals using rice water and rice-based ingredients.

The texture surprised me — it’s much thicker than expected, more like a paste than a cream. It’s infused with rice powder, rice starch, and gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin. Though slightly gritty in texture, it didn’t feel scratchy or harsh at all.

However, if you're hoping for a proper exfoliation experience, this might not quite deliver. The granules are fine and sparse, making it more of a gentle polish than a true exfoliator. That said, it's ideal for sensitive skin or those who prefer a very mild cleanse.

The formula also includes hyaluronic acid and rice ferment filtrate, ingredients known for their hydrating and skin-softening properties. While I didn’t notice a huge hydration boost immediately after washing, my skin didn’t feel tight — which is always a plus.

My verdict: A great second cleanse or morning wash. Don’t expect intense exfoliation, but it’s gentle, non-stripping, and good for sensitive skin types.

Final Thoughts

It’s no surprise that these Lacura products are already creating a buzz. They’re visually and conceptually reminiscent of Tatcha’s beloved range, but at a fraction of the price. While they may not completely replicate the luxury experience of the originals, they hold their own as effective, affordable skincare staples.

If you're after a glow-boosting, budget-friendly cleanse — or just want to dip your toe into Japanese-inspired skincare without the hefty price tag — these are definitely worth a try.

Available now at Aldi, but be quick — as with most Lacura launches, they won’t be around forever!

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.