If you've seen my latest skincare posts then you'll know that Primark is certainly stepping up their skincare game recently! I've already reviewed their Cleansing Brush which you can check out here. But today I'm sharing with you my thoughts on these Micellar Cleansing Pads that I picked up at the same time. If you want to see both the Cleansing Brush and Micellar Pads in action then don't forget to check out my initial First Impression video below...
Price
The Micellar Pads retail for a very respectable £2 for 80 pads which is great value for money. They are also infused with Rose and Vitamin E and are for all skin types.
Packaging
These come packed in a convenient cute pink pot with directions on how to use on the back of the pot. Inside the pads are very similar to glycolic pads in the sense that one side is smooth and the other is textured.
Application
I started off by using the textured side to gently remove my eye makeup on one eye and I have to say these really did a great job at removing my everything efficiently despite them not being overly saturated. I did have to go back in with a second pad on my other eye but overall I loved these as they were quick and so easy to use. I can't vouch for how they remove waterproof mascara, but if you've tried these with waterproof mascara then please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
You can also use cleansing pads on the face, but you may have to use more than two for your face makeup and I would always recommend going in with a cream or oil cleanser afterwards to ensure everything is removed properly.
Overall Thoughts
I've been testing these for over a month now and I'm obsessed! I use them mainly if I'm short for time and I just want to get my makeup off quickly. I love the fact that the Micellar Pads are pre-soaked and really if you're after a time saving no fuss eye and face makeup remover that is great value for money, then I would definitely recommend giving these a whirl.
I award the Primark Micellar Cleansing Pads a 4.9 out of 5.
You guys know how much I love finding a good dupe and I actually couldn't believe my eyes when I spotted this new cleansing brush from Primark recently. Initially, I thought this looked remarkably similar to the cult Clarisonic Mia 2 Cleansing Brush* that retails for a whopping £125! Now while I can't compare this fully to the Mia 2 as I'm yet to try this, I can compare it to me beloved Lidl Silvercrest Cleansing Brush.
So here's everything you need to know about the Primark Beauty Expert Cleansing Brush...
Price
The brush retails for an affordable £15 and is battery operated (batteries are not included). Additionally, you can also buy different brush heads at £3.50 each and a Foaming Cleanser that works with the brush for £2. (Watch my video above for snippets of all of the different brush heads and cleanser) Brush heads and cleanser available for the Beauty Expert Cleansing Brush: PRIMARK CLEANSING BRUSH HEAD £3.50 PRIMARK DEEP CLEANSING BRUSH HEAD £3.50 PRIMARK GENTLE CLEANSING BRUSH HEAD £3.50 PRIMARK FOAMING FACIAL CLEANSER £2
Comparison wise my Lidl Silvercrest Cleansing Brush was £25 when I received it as a gift at Christmas last year. This brush is still a steal but it is currently unavailable at this present moment.
Packaging The brush comes in an informative box that shares with you everything you need to know about the Beauty Expert Cleansing Brush.
Inside the brush comes with one cleansing brush head (attached), a handy stand and an Instruction Manual. As I mentioned above the batteries are not included and so you will need 2x AA Batteries. Both the Clarisonic and the Lidl Brush are charger operated.
Application
Now if your unfamiliar with what a cleansing brush can do for your skin then the whole point of the brush is too deep clean and exfoliate the skin, as well as aiding in removing makeup and dirt. It is not recommended you use this every day if you have sensitive skin because it is so intense, but as a guide, I tend to use mine more in the evening around 3 times a week.
The Primark Foaming Facial Cleanser that is sold as an add-on to the Cleansing Brush for me didn't look very appealing and skin friendly, so I decided to just use my Sister & Co Cleansing Oil* instead. I think personally there's no need to buy this cleanser aswell if what you already use to take your makeup off is working well for you already.
The brush has two speeds and even though this is battery operated, surprisingly the higher speed is quite powerful. With regards to the brush itself, this comes with the normal cleansing brush head which works well at deep cleansing my face. However, I would say this does feel a little rougher compared to just using a normal flannel or muslin cloth to cleanse with and so if you do have sensitive skin, I would recommend additionally purchasing the Gentle Cleansing Brush Head and sticking to the first speed on the device.
When I tested this out I decided to do one side with the Primark brush and one side with the Lidl brush, I also dipped both in a little water before using them. So here's how they compare...
My Lidl Brush works with Sonic technology and has four settings. The Primark brush spins round at two speeds. The brush on the Primark version is slightly smaller and the bristles are longer and softer, whereas the Lidl one has a larger flatter brush. Both work well to deep cleanse the skin but I would say the Primark one is slightly harsher on the skin and overall does a better job at deep cleansing. However, the Lidl one is definitely easier to work with as it doesn't spin round.
Afterwards, I actually went in with a muslin cloth to see how much makeup each brush had removed and I would say they were both the same, I still had a bit of makeup that came off on the cloth on each side but not loads. I usually do a double cleanse and that is what I would recommend to you also just to ensure the face is completely clean and makeup free. OVERALL THOUGHTS
Overall I have to say I do like my Lidl brush that bit better as it's easier to control because it uses the sonic technology. I also like the fact you can charge it without the worry of replacing the batteries each time. Nevertheless, both are AMAZING at deep cleansing and exfoliating the skin and I couldn't recommend them enough if you're a girl on a budget!
I award the Primark Beauty Expert Cleansing Brush a 4.8 out of 5
Stay tuned for my next review which will be on the Primark Micellar Cleansing Pads. Alternatively, you can watch my full First Impression here.
This year there has been an explosion of Drugstore Sheet Masks coming to the market from Poundland to Primark, Simple to Aldi. So today in the 3rd post from my #drugstoreskincareweek series I'm sharing with you 7 New Drugstore Sheet Masks that are all under £5!
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Sheet Mask Review
1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrogel Recovery Mask £3.50
The Hydrogel Recovery Mask is a two-piece gel mask which you leave on for 15-30 minutes. It claims to be an intensely hydrating and cooling mask that is infused with Hyaluronic Acid.
This was actually really easy to apply because it came in two parts and while on the face it felt comfortable, cooling and hydrating. Afterwards, my skin felt smooth and refreshed, however, I didn't feel this was an overly hydrating mask as per the claims. I left this on for 15 minutes but I think I would probably try this one again and leave it on for the maximum 30 minute time limit to see if it was any more hydrating. Nevertheless, this is an affordable and convenient pick me up mask.
Garnier SkinActive Charcoal Sheet Mask Review
2. Garnier SkinActive Pure Charcoal Black Tissue Mask£2.99*
This Black Charcoal mask is well saturated and infused with ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Black Algae Extract and LHA. The SkinActive Mask is supposed to be pore-tightening, purifying and hydrating and to me, it certainly felt hydrating and refreshing while it was working its magic. I left this on for the required 15 minutes and afterwards my skin felt slightly taught, glowy and hydrated. I much preferred this to the Blue Garnier Moisture Bomb version I reviewed last year and I have to say this was one out of three favourites.
Primark Holler and Glow Sheet Mask Review
3. Primark Holler and Glow Holler Back £3
If you've seen this fun brand at Primark then you'll know there are endless interesting looking sheet masks to choose from to target different concerns. This gold holographic mask is aimed to hydrate the skin and I have to say this was my favourite visually, however, I did feel this felt the most papery compared to the others I tested. Nevertheless, this was still very saturated and it smelt pleasant too. On the skin I found this to be hydrating and refreshing and although I did have a bit of trouble with it sticking to my lip and chin area, overall this definitely made my skin feel and look hydrated.
Aldi Sheet Mask Review
4. Aldi Lacura Moisture Complex Sheet Mask with Green Tea Extract £1.99 for 2
The new Lacura Moisture Complex Masks come in 3 different scents including Green Tea Extract, Chamomile and Pomegranate and the best part is you get two for £1.99! The Green Tea Mask includes Hyaluronic Acid and Moisturising Serum and aims to intensely moisturise and refresh the skin as well as help it feel balanced and pure.
Again this is a well-saturated sheet mask that you leave on for 15 minutes. Initially I found this a little harder to apply as there were no slits to help it fit your face snugly and I have to say this did smell a bit odd too, but afterwards, my skin felt balanced, hydrated and moisturised which is always a bonus.
Poundland Sheet Mask Review
5. Poundland Derma V10 Hydrating Vitamin E Woven Face Mask £1
Poundland do sheet masks I hear you say! Oh yes and spoiler alert this was one of my favourites! The Derma V10 Mask is a hydrating Vitamin E Mask infused with Aloe Vera that claims to hydrate, moisturise and improves the skin's texture.
Upon application the mask is well saturated and super soft to the touch, it's also lightly scented. I left this on for 15 minutes but you can leave it on for up to 20 minutes. On the skin, it felt beautifully refreshing and hydrating and after I had removed the mask my skin felt so smooth and moisturised.
Simple Rich Moistue Sheet Mask
6. Simple Rich Moisture Sheet Mask £2.99
This kind to skin mask has no harsh chemicals, artificial perfumes or colour and helps condition dry and dehydrated skin. When applying the mask I do advise taking extra care as it is very delicate to the touch and can stretch a little because it is so thin. However, this mask is divinely soft to the touch, refreshing and felt just like a second skin! I left this on for the required time of 15 minutes and afterwards my skin felt nourished, soft and smooth and this was definitely another one of my firm favourites!
Masque Bar Rose Gold Sheet Mask Review
7. Masque Bar Rose Gold Foil Sheet Mask £4.98*
The most expensive of the bunch this foil sheet mask claims to nourish and hydrate the skin and contains Witch Hazel Water, Soy Bean Extract and Mushroom Extract.
I did love the fact this was Rose Gold, however, this was quite a rigid mask to apply and consequently, I found it hard to shape around the face. The mask was drenched in a very watery liquid and smelt a bit chemically which I think was due to the Witch Hazel, but while on the face it did feel hydrating despite it not sticking to my chin! I left this on for the maximum time of 20 minutes and I have to say my skin did feel and look smooth refined and glowy afterwards.
Last week over on the PPB YouTube Channel I dedicated a whole week of videos to Drugstore Skincare. You guys know how much I'm already obsessed with anything skincare whether it be high end or drugstore, however, the drugstore has come a long way since the days of your basic Cleanser, Toner and Moisturiser, that's why I wanted to share with you some of the best finds and new products available from the drugstore. So without further ado let's kick this series of posts off with a good old Primark Beauty Haul!
PRODUCTS MENTIONED:
1. PRIMARK ROUND COSMETIC PADS 50p
2. PRIMARK ARGAN OIL OVAL COTTON PADS 90p
3. PRIMARK 2PK HAIR WRAPS £1.50
4. PRIMARK TRAVEL BOTTLE SET £2
5. PRIMARK EXFOLIATING CHARCOAL GLOVES £1.50
6. PRIMARK GEL EYE MASK £1.50
7. PRIMARK 2 PK FACIAL MASK SET £3
8. PRIMARK 7th HEAVEN OVERNIGHT MOISTURE MASK 90p
9. PRIMARK BLOOMING BEAUTIFUL K POP COOLING GERBERA EYE PADS £1.50
10. PRIMARK FOAMING BUBBLE MASK WITH PEACH AND GREEN TEA 80p
11. K POP DREAMY LIPS 2 STEP LIP SCRUB AND MASK £1.50
With Christmas less than a week away, the pressure is on to pick up those last minute gifts! Today I'm sharing with you 10 Stocking Filler Ideas that are all under £10. These gifts are not only affordable but they're perfect for any beauty lover out there!
Before I go I just wanted to say a big thank you for all your continued support here on the blog and over on the PPB Channel, it means more than you'll ever know.đź’— I hope you all have a wonderful Merry Christmas and an even better 2018! Xx
2. Real Techniques Mini Brushes £6
This year Real Techniques are not only doing their value brush sets again but they are also releasing the cutest mini brushes and sponges in a hanging gift box. I actually picked this one up from Walgreens on my recent trip to New York, but they have similar versions in Boots for only £6!
This beautiful duo is part of the Two of a Kind Collection consisting of three different sets. Each set contains two mini nail polish shades that are ideal for anyone who loves painting their own nails and experimenting with colour.
Leighton Denny Images of the Past and Jewellery Box.
Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo
4. Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo* £8 each
These are great stocking stuffers for anyone who loves to travel or who maybe is a gym bunny and likes to have dry shampoo to hand in their gym bag if they're on the go alot.
Primark Magic Eraser Dupe
5. Primark Cleansing Mits £2.50 for Three
If you've seen my First Impression on this here, then you'll know how much of a great dupe these are for the Makeup Eraser. The Cleansing Mit is wonderful at removing makeup in minutes with just water and I love these when I just need to get my makeup off quickly or I'm travelling.
Bilou Cotton Candy Shower Foam
6. Bilou Cotton Candy Shower Foam £3.99
Here's one for the ultimate girly girl! I adore these cute Shower Foams from Bilou as not only do they smell delicious but they're a 100% vegan and come in a host of yummy scents!
Soap and Glory Get a Smooth on Scrub and Butter Duo
7.Soap & Glory Get a Smooth On Duo£5
Another great idea for anyone who loves a pamper or who deserves a bit of them time is one of Soap & Glory's many Christmas Gift Packs. There's quite a few under £10 this year, but I particularly love this duo as it has the iconic Righteous Butter in it along with the Flake Away Exfoliator for super smooth skin.
Boots Ingredients Sheet Mask
8. Boots Ingredients Sheet Mask £2.50
Sheet Masks are not only convenient but they're a great little additional stocking stuffer idea for the girl on the go as they're less messy, quick and a great little pick me up treatment. I adore this one from Boots in the Charcoal and Willow Bark as it's super refreshing.
Tanya Burr Mascara
9. Tanya Burr Selfie Lash Mascara* £7.99
This is one of the best mascara's to come out of 2017! It's such a great all-rounder mascara and a wonderful stocking filler idea. Read my full review here.
Makeup Revolution Liquid Highlighters
10. Makeup Revolution Liquid Highlighters £6
These are another great product to come out of 2017 and they're also another perfect stocking idea for anyone who is obsessed with highlighter! Here are three of my favourites Rose Gold, Starlight and Unicorn Glow, you can also read all about them here.
I use the Rose Gold on my cheeks, Starlight mixed in with my face moisturiser and Unicorn Elixir mixed in with my body moisturiser to create the ultimate unicorn glow!
*The Leighton Denny set was sent to me in PR but as always all opinions are my own.
With primers being an essential part of a good and long-lasting base, it's easy to see why they've become a must-have item in any make-up addicts routine. I'm a big fan of the Benefit Porefessional*, however, just recently I've seen a growing selection of different consistencies of Primers including this Priming Oil from the Primark PS Insta Girl Collection. The Primark Priming Oil claims to help give you a 'moisture rich make-up application' and a 'dewy finish', so here are my thoughts...
Price
This #No Filter Priming Oil retails for an affordable £5 for 20ml of product.
Packaging
Not only does this comes boxed but inside you'll find a glass bottle and a pipette style dropper for ease of application. Information wise this tells you both on the box and bottle exactly what it's for and what it does.
Application
For best results, I dispensed a couple of drops onto my fingertips and then I applied this directly all over the face using patting motions. Initially, I did rub this in instead of patting, but if you do wear several layers of moisturiser then this could cause your lotion to peel off and so I do recommend pressing this in rather than rubbing it into the skin. It's also worth noting that this does smell very nutty because of the large mix of nuts and seeds contained within the oil.
For foundation, I used the Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation* and my Makeup Revolution Oval Face Brush to blend everything out and I have to say the oil helps the foundation not only glide on much easier but the final result is beautiful, dewy and glowing skin. Finally, I went in with a little powder down my t-zone as well as some bronzer, blush and highlighter to finish everything off.
Longevity
After a good 12 hours of wear, my foundation still looked lovely and glowy, with the exception of a bit of wear around my mouth area. Also, if you are prone to shine around your t-zone area then I recommend carrying some blotting paper with you just too matte down any unnecessary shine.
Overall Thoughts
Having used this primer for a good month now I have to say I'm obsessed as not only is this great value for money but I just love the way it can transform particularly a matte foundation into a beautiful dewy, glowy finish as well as helping it glide on easily.
As I mentioned above I do recommend patting this onto the face as opposed to rubbing it in but nevertheless, this primer is for sure long-wearing and perfect if you love a glowy finish.
Lastly, if you do have oily skin then this may not be for you and so a mattifying primer would probably work better, however, if you are on the hunt for a new primer and you just love a long-wearing, glowy consistency, then this may just be right up your street!
I award the Primark PS Insta Girl Priming Oil a 4.8 out of 5
You may also like these other Primark Makeup Reviews Here...
