Neutrogena Naturals

Hello there friendly people!  :-h   I would like to firstly apologise and I hope you will excuse me for not being around at all last month.  #-o   My excuse is that I was up to my eyeballs with things happening, to the point where I was just so busy that I didn’t get enough free ‘Me’ time to catch up with my blog.  [-X   So, after the neglecting, it’s now time to add some of the backlog I’ve built up over the past few months….(so many reviews that I’ve completed yet, still need to be posted that it’s not funny   :-"  )   :-w  Well, embarrassingly for me,  :">  even after blogging for all this time now, I’ve still not developed an easy way of uploading and arranging the layout of each post and it takes me literally aaaagggeesss just to get one published, oops!!   :-<  So, hoping my loyal followers will be able to dig these random ‘whenever’ postings and have the patience to bear with me when I go AWOL.  :-t

Ahh well enough of that, it’s not my intention to chew your ears off   :-@   about my personal blues.  Anyway,  I’m here now and I’m about to introduce you all to a few products that I was offered to try out from a newly released skin care collection that hails from a very well-known personal care company.  The products in this post were sent to me for consideration by Sarah at Platinum Media & Communications Pty Ltd.   B-)

Neutrogena have jumped upon the more natural skin care bandwagon with their latest ‘Naturals’ range, which features a line-up of products that are infused with plant based botanicals, minerals and vitamins and are free of the nasties such as parabens, petrochemicals, dyes, and phthalates.  The sustainable packaging is even greener, made up with post-consumer recycled materials that they claim is the most responsibly produced packaging in the world.  The products are definitely not 100% natural but I like that they are not trying to pull the wool over anyone’s eyes either; honestly disclosing the naturally derived percentage of each product.  Well I personally agree that being mostly natural is all about being kinder to the skin, so that has to be a plus.  =D>  Apparently the products do contain synthetic fragrances, so once again, I appreciate their honesty and think it’s a good thing to let people know what they are getting and as a warning to those who may be sensitive to that sort of thing.  The natural approach is said to focus on skin health and boosting resilience by supporting the skin’s natural functions, with replenishment and detoxification to help deliver healthy-looking skin.  :D

Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser 

($14.99 per 177ml)

Made with 90% naturally derived ingredients, the Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser is rich in Willowbark bionutrients, which is a natural form of Salicylic Acid, as well as Vitamins, designed to penetrate deep down, detoxifying the pores and removing impurities to ensure fresher, cleaner skin.

It comes in a stubby, compact translucent plastic bottle with a pump-action dispenser.  The design is simple and fuss-free, reflective of the greener, more natural direction of the range.  The label on the back of the packaging is also very informative with a list of all the included ingredients, along with their source.

The clear, gel-based liquid cleanser is of a medium consistency and has a fresh, sweet, apple-like fragrance that I find clearly plastic-y and artificial and far too strong for my personal taste, however I’m sure the fruity aroma would be appealing to certain folks who appreciate sweet ambrosial smells.  The scent, whilst initially a bit pungent, definitely disappears completely after cleansing, which is a relief.  #:-S   I only need one pump to adequately wash my whole face and neck and once the gel mixes with water, it lathers up into a rich, creamy foam that effectively provides a deep down cleanse, removing all traces of dirt, grime, surface oils and most of my makeup.  It rinses off with warm or even cold water, leaving my skin super clean and instantly refreshed.  <:-P

Over time, I have noticed that because this cleanser does such a good job of washing my skin, it’s sometimes feels a somewhat taut and on the dry side, so it’s important that I use a replenishing moisturiser to rehydrate after cleansing.  :)>-  I have oily, sometimes sensitive skin and have not suffered any adverse reactions from using this cleanser.  The gentle formulation is non-irritating to me, although the scent could be bothersome or may trigger sensitivity issues for anyone who can’t tolerate overpowering fragrances,  :-S   nevertheless I didn’t have any worries myself.  Based on my own experience, I’ve found it’s a great cleanser, especially for using during the hotter months here in FNQ, when the humidity can sometimes take its toll on my skin and make it excessively oily during the day.  Since using this cleanser, I’ve been pleased that it helps combat any greasy build-up and keeps my pores looking clear and blemish free.  ;;)

The Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser makes a great all-purpose, budget priced cleanser for both males and females of all ages.  It’s perfect for anyone who prefers more natural ingredients in their skin care, but can’t afford the expense of high-end brands.  I wouldn’t recommend it so much for those with dry complexions as it may not by moisturising enough, therefore suggest it would be better suited for normal, combination or oily skin types.  ;)

Neutrogena Naturals Fresh Cleansing + Makeup Remover 

($14.99 per 177ml)

Made with 86% naturally derived ingredients, the Neutrogena Fresh Cleaning + Makeup Remover is rich in Peruvian Tara Seed bionutrients, as well as Vitamins and Complex sugars, designed to boost moisture and prevent dehydration, while strengthening the skins natural barriers.  The dual-action formula removes makeup and cleans the skin in one easy step to produce softer, cleaner skin.

Like the Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser, it comes in a stubby, compact translucent plastic bottle with a user-friendly pump-action dispenser.  The design is simple and fuss-free, reflective of the greener, more natural direction of the range.  The label on the back of the packaging is also very informative with a list of all the included ingredients, along with their source.

The light, creamy, gel-like solution is pearlescent in colour and reminds me of a shampoo.  It’s heavily scented with a fresh, sweet, apple-like fragrance that I personally find too overbearing; however people that like really fruity perfumed products will probably be thrilled.  Unlike most makeup removers, this one is used just like a cleanser and one pump provides enough gel to wash my whole face and neck.  It gently lathers and melts away my makeup, although it doesn’t quite cut through my heavy eye makeup and despite claiming to be suitable for the eye contour, I find it stings slightly and is rather uncomfortable,  :-O   so I prefer to do that area separately.  With that in mind, I wouldn’t recommend it to those with really sensitive eyes or for use specifically as an eye makeup remover.  The cleanser rinses off easily and doesn’t dry out my skin or create any greasy surface residue; instead my face feels soft, supple and for the most part clean.  :)

I think the Neutrogena Fresh Cleaning + Makeup Remover is ideal ‘go-to’ product for when I’m in a hurry and want a quick wash to get rid of my daily makeup, yet can’t be bothered going to the trouble of completing a two step process.  I-)  That said, because it doesn’t work ‘wonders’ on my eye makeup and it doesn’t feel like my skin is thoroughly clean, like the regular cleanser does, hence it’s not going to be my first choice to use on a regular basis.  Whilst it’s a bit irritating to my eyes, it doesn’t upset my skin at all; therefore I imagine its gentle enough for most skin types.  It’s a neat, time saving, cleanser combination makeup remover that is kind on the wallet and a handy option for folks who don’t wear a lot of makeup and want a fast, super convenient cleansing solution -  worthwhile to have on hand!   

Tip -  *-:)  It can also be used to clean makeup brushes without damaging them..

Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Pore Scrub 

($14.99 per 118ml)  

Made with 94% naturally derived ingredients, the Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Pore Scrub is rich in Willowbark bionutrients, which is a natural form of Salicylic Acid, as well as Vitamins and Jojoba, designed to slough away dead, dulling skin cells and clear congested pores to deliver smoother, fresher, cleaner skin. It’s gentle enough for daily use and even suitable for acne prone skin.

It’s presented in an easy-to-use, plastic, squeezable tube with a flip top lid and a design that is simple and fuss-free, reflective of the greener, more natural direction of the range.  The label on the back of the packaging is also very informative with a list of all the included ingredients, along with their source.

The scrub features a translucent gel-based, liquid formula has fairly watery consistency and for that reason, it needs to be shaken really well before dispensing.  The fluid contains tiny granules, which work to physically exfoliate the skin.  The fragrance is similar to the two cleansers I’ve tried in this range, with a slightly overwhelming, sweet apple scent that I find noticeably artificial, but thankfully it doesn’t linger once applied.  #:-S   It foams gradually upon contact with water and then melts into my skin as the beads go to work on the surface, gently removing the old cells, without rubbing my skin until it becomes angry and red raw.  Instead, it provides a deep-pore cleanse that washes off easily, revealing a new complexion that is smooth and supple, taking on a fresh, healthy glow.  \:D/

I usually always avoid manual scrubs, because the scrubbing action generally aggravates the areas of my skin that are quite fragile.  :(  I was impressed with this scrub though, as the actual exfoliating beads appeared smooth and polished off around all the edges, making them completely non-abrasive.  Due to not being rough, they didn’t scratch or aggravate my skin at all.  :D   The delicate areas that are around my nose and inner cheeks, still experienced a bit of mild redness after each application and while it isn’t extreme, that is exactly what happens to me when I manually exfoliate in those spots.  ~X(  Now, when using this product, I simply avoid that area and concentrate on the rest of my face, which is more tolerant and doesn’t become dried out or irritated by scrubbing.  ;)

This is a very decently priced facial scrub for those who love the feel of an exfoliator that physically renews their skin and prompts a thorough but gentle, deep-down clean that you can really feel.  The Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Pore Scrub is suitable for both girls and guys of all ages and all skin types, particularly as it’s so affordable and readily available at leading supermarkets, variety stores and pharmacies Australia-wide.  I consider it to be a worthy little investment that will help to brighten up the dullest complexion and keep it looking constantly clear and radiant.  :-*

Have you tried this new range yet?  :-/  Which of these three products do you think is most appealing?  :-?  Let us know your thoughts by commenting below.  Cheers heaps for that! xx oo

All images in this post are generic.

Mechanical Exfoliants

Woo Hoo, YAY, Yeah boi!!!  <:-P   I’m excited coz this is finally the last, concluding post of a concession, focused around the topic Serious Skin Care , which basically outlines each and every product I use in my daily/weekly skin care routine.  The subject now wrapping up this saga is Mechanical Exfoliants, products that I only utilise myself on an ‘Occasional' basis. :-/  Why only sometimes, you may wonder?  Personally, I don’t deem it as being essential for my individual routine, however, this step IS very important to many other skin care enthusiasts.  It was actually an act I had always implicated into my normal skin care routine, throughout my adult years, that was until a few years ago, when my therapist advised me it was probably not in the best interest of my skin to continue with it. :-O

I enjoyed exfoliating my skin with a manual scrub, often infused with some form of small, slightly rough particles or granules that would physically slough dead skin cells from the surface of my skin to reveal the new layer of skin underneath.  I was obviously naive or something, because I had the impression that to achieve a bright, clear complexion then implementing a skin-polishing product was vital. :-/  I also admit, at times, I was a bit too eager when it came to scrubbing my skin, later discovering that over-exfoliating strips away layers of healthy cells and reduces the skin's natural defences.  Once I was more aware of my sensitive skin issues, I continued using Mechanical Exfoliants in moderation, just once a week to reap the benefits of better skin rejuvenation, exposing a fresh, healthy, new complexion, assuring myself I wouldn’t be upsetting my delicate skin.  But, I soon I was to learn that I still had it all wrong, d’oh!   #-o

When I went for my first professional skin analysis, the first thing my therapist asked was if I was a ‘Scrubber’, as she immediately noticed the tell tale signs, which reflected with the raw, flushed appearance of my skin.  :-O  After ‘fessing up’ she introduced me to the advantages of Chemical Exfoliants that typified ingredients such as glycolic, lactic, citric, or salicylic acid to deeply penetrate the skin, assisting cell turnover and renewal, which would ideally be less traumatic for my fragile skin. :-<   At first, I was shattered!  =((   The Mechanical Exfoliants I was using of late, while quite expensive, they were indeed results orientated, so I didn’t particularly want to part with them just yet.  Nevertheless, after some deliberating my therapist said, if I really wanted to use them ‘Occasionally’ I could do so with, but with extreme caution! :-S   She went on to explain that if I carefully applied the scrubs, focusing on the outer facial regions that are a bit tougher/thicker than the weaker/thinner, more delicate areas around my nose and inner cheeks, then it shouldn’t harm or exasperate my sensitive skin. #:-S

I learnt a lot about my skin that day and ever since, I have avoided scrubbing the life out of my skin, instead opting for skin care products infused with chemical exfoliating ingredients.  These ingredients are solely incorporated into my basic skin care steps, for example Cleansing, where my glycolic-based cleanser has become a firm favourite and hence now voids the need for a separate exfoliating product.  The same two Mechanical Exfoliants that I had grown so partially fond of all those years ago are still lurking in my beauty kit today, but will remain as ‘Occassional’ staples, LOL!  :))  While they are Mechanical Exfoliants, they fortunately boast urber gentle formulations with soft particles that don’t scratch my skins surface and the added benefit of AHA’s, deliver the best of both worlds to my skin.  \:D/  Both products are exceptionally comfortable to use, but I ultimately LOVE  :x  the accelerated desired results of a super smooth, supple texture, restored lustre and the ability to achieve a vibrant, youthful-looking complexion.  :)

Here are my favourites:

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Microfoliant Powder form

If you have heard of Dermalogica then you have undoubtedly heard about this Exfoliant.  This beauty product has attained a ‘cult’ status and it still consistently wins legions of skin care awards worldwide on a yearly basis.  =D>  It’s easy to understand why it’s so damn popular, nobody needs a degree to notice the instantly visible results and flawless complexion staring back at you when you peer in the mirror straight after application.  Featuring a skin-brightening complex, this exclusive rice-based, enzyme Exfoliant, enriched with a professional blend of skin-boosting plant extracts and essential oils presents as a dry powder, activating as soon as it contacts water.  All I have to do is shake a little powder straight onto my damp palms and begin rubbing both hands together until it forms a ever so slightly frothy, paste-like consistency that I then go about massaging into my skin, so it can gently eliminate dead skin cells, dirt and impurities.  After rinsing, the first thing I notice is that my skin is immediately baby soft and silky smooth to touch.  :)  My face isn’t left taut or dry, nor does it appear red and irritated.  #:-S   This legendary Exfoliant prompts my skin to absolutely glow. (Oh, it’s not a greasy, oil slick, disco ball-looking glow either!  :-/  )  This glow is nothing bar pure fresh, clean, healthy radiance, which distinctly enlivens my whole complexion.  What else makes the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant so highly acclaimed?  Well, I am inclined to say that because the powder-like texture is completely non-abrasive with built-in soothing properties, so it won’t upset or provoke vulnerable skin.  This suggests to me that it would be ideal for the most fragile skin conditions, or alternatively, it’s optimal for frequent use, as the name suggests, on a daily basis, quite unlike most other Exfoliants that need only be applied once to twice a week max.  \:D/   I mostly use this prior to getting myself all ‘dolled-up’  as I can be quietly confident knowing my skin will remarkably de-congest upon application, which for me means less pesky pimples or blackheads, as well as the security that it always  preserves minimal or at least, a more balanced pH level as well (YAY, no greasy shine!! <:-P ).  So why else do I primarily prefer this Exfoliant ahead of special occasions?  It’s simple really, because my skin is automatically transformed into a perfectly smooth canvas, ready for makeup application without a hitch and a guaranteed longer-lasting, luminous finish.  This is one skin care superstar that needs no recommendations; earning all rights to its award-winning, reputable stature. (*)

Microfoliant paste-like when damp

Microfoliant frothy with extra water

 

Dermalogica AGE Smart MultiVitamin Thermafoliant

This is my personal 'jewel' of the Dermalogica range.  B-) This is the Exfoliant that I have personally used the longest, even though it has me straying from my urge to normally resist Mechanical Exfoliants, when it comes to one that I am extremely partial to, I just make an exception.  ;)  The results speak for themselves and by totally revitalising my lacklustre skin so convincingly; I couldn’t give it up even if I wanted to, LOL!   :))   What also appeals is over time it can actually repair years of skin damage, while the instant deep-pore cleanse it provides leaves my complexion so soft, smooth and adequately hydrated the minute I wash it off.  The grains are of a fine texture to effortlessly slough away dead, dulling skin cells, but yet oh so gentle so it doesn’t aggravate my sensitive skin.  It’s potent enough to eliminate impurities and maintain a more balanced pH, therefore I notice after having used this Exfoliant, any pimples are virtually non-existent and my complexion is less prone to developing the unsightly, greasy film that tends to creep up on my oily skin during the day. (Also known as midday shine!  :-S ).  The thickly formulated scrub is unlike anything else I have ever tried, featuring thermal technology that magically warms up upon contact to allow the dynamic ingredients to better penetrate the skin.  Speaking of ingredients, this Exfoliant is an anti-ageing revelation, packed full of complex actives, antioxidants, vitamins and enzymes in a botanical concentrate, which helps to slow down and reverse the premature ageing process.  It sounds good doesn’t it? Well I can assure you, it’s not only good, it’s phenomenal.  =D> The Dermalogica AGE Smart MultiVitamin Thermafoliant is pure luxury in a tube, boasting the aromatic Dermalogica signature scent, coalesced with the unique warming action, it encourages relaxation by arousing  the senses and evoking tranquillity, for complete and utter bliss.  Oh, I didn’t mention the noticeably healthy, all-over glow that is induced on my complexion immediately after applying this scrub, see what more could you want in an Exfoliant? This one has it all and I can’t rave enough about how much I LOVE it.   :x 

Thermafoliant water added

Thermafoliant

Without any doubt, exfoliating, regardless if you prefer the Mechanical or Chemical variety, is paramount to anyone who is serious about winning the war against the visible signs of prematurely aged skin.  Boosting circulation, stimulating the natural cell turnover process, accelerating collagen production, evening and brightening the skin tone, smoothing it’s texture, minimising fine lines, targeting pigmentation and balancing pH levels are all feats that you can achieve from efoliating regularly to reverse and protect against the skins ageing process.  It’s not a miracle as it takes lots of dedication and plenty of patience, however it’s not impossible and I don’t know about you but if there is even just a glimmer of hope that I can maintain the fountain of youth for a bit longer, hehe!  ;)) Then call me vain, [-X   LOL!   :)) but, I plan to embrace the opportunity and whatever help is on hand to tackle the symptoms head on and fight for victory. b-(   Do you use an Exfoliant to help battle skin ageing or maybe for refining, polishing or clarifying your complexion to invigorate dull, lack lustre skin?  Are you a ‘Scrubber’ who uses Mechanical Exfoliants or do you normally select the Chemical style, or maybe even a dual formula featuring a combination of both?  Share your favourite or tell us about an Exfoliant that has influenced you somehow?  :)

There are three generic images in this blog, the two product images and the Dermalogica banner, however the photo's of the formulations are my own.