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Stepping out of a skincare rut

— by Alyson Walsh

 

An allergic reaction on my neck and decolletage has been bothering me for a while. As I don’t have a dermatologist on speed-dial, I’ve been taking Piriton and hoping it will settle down. And so when Boots UK asked if they could offer me some skincare expertise, I was happy to oblige. Other concerns on my list include: sensitive skin and eyes, the quest to find the ultimate moisturizer with SPF and age/sun spots that are gradually turning me into a walking tribute to Yayoi Kusama. The skincare advisors assessed the situation, selected the most suitable items and then a box of lovely products arrived (have to admit that was a bit of a relief as there are loads of skincare essentials at Boots).

After a two-week trial, here’s my verdict:

Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser (£10.50 online)

I can’t be bothered faffing around with those thick, gloopy balm cleansers that require several applications and a muslin cloth. Much better off with the easy breezy, wash-and-go variety and I was delighted to see something from Avene in my goodie box. I always use their sunscreen on my sensitive skin, in summer, and this is a beauty brand that I am happy to endorse. A big thumbs up for this gentle, plant-based cleanser.

this works no wrinkles active serum (£39.50 online)

‘Our advice for ageing wisely: stay out of the sun, wear a hat, and SPF’ it says on the back of the tube. Mmm…unfortunately, it’s a bit late for that but this Vitamin C-packed product smells wonderful (it contains bergamot, Damask rose, lemon and cedar wood), helps fight free radicals and is getting to work on my age spots. This is my favourite beauty product from the Boots selection. The serum is light and easy to apply and I think the age spots are fading ever so slightly – either that or it’s my eyesight.

Bioderma Sensibio Light Cream (£10.50 online)

Oh thank you, Boots. To try and alleviate the irritated skin and itchiness around my neck, I have avoided using any cream, for weeks. This lovely, silky moisturiser has soothed my skin and stopped me feeling bad about my neck. Now I’m feeling calm all round. I would definitely buy this.

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Re-hydrating Lotion Face, Neck & Decolletage SPF15 (£8.66 online)

I often buy L’Oréal moisturiser for travelling. It’s reliable, effective and comes in an airport security-friendly 50ml container. Win-win-win. While this is a perfectly decent product and excellent value for money, I personally prefer something lighter for everyday use and am still searching for the Holy Grail of grown-up moisturisers with SPF. Any suggestions?

Vichy Purete Thermale Relieving Solid Water Mask (£14 online)

To be honest, I have only used this mask once. Obviously, I need to spend more time with my feet up and less time on social media. Five-minutes on the sofa with this cooling, soothing treatment on my face provided a much-needed dose of personal pampering. Until the builders arrived and I had to rush into the bathroom and quickly wash it off.

After what was only a very short email conversation, I am impressed that the product recommendations made by the Boots UK skincare expert were so accurate. There are some lovely skincare essentials here that I’ll definitely be adding to my regime. It’s easy to get stuck in a beauty rut and this trial has made me realise the importance of taking time to research new products, to find what suits your skin and works for you at various stages of your life.

Boots UK has 3 for 2 offers on selected skincare and up to half price on skincare essentials. This is a sponsored post.

 

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  An allergic reaction on my neck and decolletage has been bothering me for a while. As I don’t have a dermatologist on speed-dial, I’ve been taking Piriton and hoping it will settle down.