On trial this week - December 9

Products the bd team tested (and loved) this week.

Phloretin CF Gel

While I’d always dabbled with serums, it wasn’t until I hit 30 that I started using them regularly – probably because I was able to see their benefits on fine lines and pigmentation that I didn’t have in my twenties. What I really like about SkinCeuticals’ Phloretin CF Gel is that it’s a preventative serum in a gel formulation. The thicker consistency makes me feel like I’m applying it more thoroughly to targeted areas, and it appears to be easily absorbed into my skin while creating a thin barrier on the surface that isn’t as slippery” as some other serums.

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When I started used Phloretin CF Gel in the mornings, I experienced a tingling sensation on my skin for the first few days, however, this subsided once my skin got used to the formula. Containing L-absorbic acid (which is pure vitamin C), ferulic acid and phloretin, this antioxidant serum aims to penetrate and boost the skin’s support structure and corrects signs of ageing. I noticed my skin texture became smoother and clearer after a couple of weeks’ use. - Michelle

My legs are usually dry, flaky and easily irritated by shaving. Not anymore… I have just discovered the Trishave Shave Cream. This product applies like a moisturiser, and while it does feel a little strange at first, the consistency allows the razor to easily slide over the skin. It has a strong smell of tea tree and is designed to reduce redness, cuts and ingrown hairs. Usually I would need to lather my skin in moisturiser after showering, but after using the shave cream, my legs were unbelievably smooth and moisturised. I don’t think I’ll ever shave with another product again. - Bree

This nail polish went on easily, with lots of polish on the brush that allowed for a neat application that didn’t streak or take long to dry. The Grape shade I’m wearing is bright, fun and glossy, while the other colours available are also great summer shades. The square bottle design is cute and easy to hold, and the formula is longlasting. - Liz

Nutrimetics Illuminating Skimmer Mist

This illuminating powder is a little different to what we’ve seen before. Housed in an adorable vintage-inspired bottle, you hold the product away from your face and spray onto your skin. I have to admit, I was apprehensive at first towards the lack of control that comes with this kind of application, but after the first time using the product – I was won over. It dispenses just the right amount of product onto your face, providing an even spread of illuminating golden bronze. This is set to become a permanent fixture on my desk for a quick pick-me-up before I rush out to an event. - Lucy

Mita Active Elastics

I play a lot of sport, and while I may mess around with my hair a lot off the field – as soon as that start whistle goes, I don’t want to be worrying about what my hair is doing. There’s nothing more annoying than having to fix your ponytail in the middle of an intense game! The Mita Active sports range of hair accessories is ideal. I tried out the Super Hold Elastics and the Super Hold Elastic Headbands and these snagless elastics were perfect for holding my hair firmly in place throughout the whole match. Gold medal achievement. – Yelena