RSL Acne Be Gone Acne Face Wash and Treatment Cream – Review

Treating acne requires a lot of patience. No single product will suit everyone which is why it’s important to try out and find what works best for you. Having tried this duo for over a month, it’s time I share my experience.

Acne Be Gone Acne Face Wash
Infused with a blend of Allantoin and Salicylic acid to effectively control outbreaks.

Rejuvenate the skin with Alpha Hydroxy Acid to remove pollutants & unclog pores. Beta Hydroxy Acid penetrates deep into pores, removing dead skin cells and acne scars. Helps treat emerging acne and prevents blackheads. SLS and fragrance free.

How to Use
Moisten face with lukewarm water, apply a small amount and massage in a circular motion. Leave on for 3 minutes. Wash off with water and pat skin dry.

Acne Be Gone Treatment Cream

Acne Be Gone Night Treatment Cream treats emerging acne & prevents blackheads.

Infused with Alpha Hydroxy Acid and Beta Hydroxy Acid to hydrate, penetrate and repair the skin from acne. For best results use twice daily after Acne Be Gone Acne Face Wash.

How to Use
After Acne Be Gone Face Wash, apply all over face or acne-prone areas at night. Massage in circular motions. Avoid eye area.

RSL Acne Be Gone Acne Face Wash

RSL Acne Be Gone Acne Treatment Cream

My thoughts
The first key active ingredient is Salicylic Acid which is an antibacterial agent that also aids in purifying clogged pores. The second on the list is Allantoin which helps soothe and counteract any irritation. I am certain that both these products are suitable for sensitive skin type since I’ve never had any reaction or stinging with them.  I’ve used this duo every other night as part of my night time skin-care routine and I can say it definitely curbs any emerging zit on my face.  

Starting with the face wash, it is color-less, has a gel like consistency but is not odor-less. The scent is sort of medicinal but pretty mild so it doesn’t stick around. I use this on my already cleansed face, massage and leave it on for over two minutes. As I said before, there is no stinging, no tight feeling or dryness whatsoever. I follow by using the Treatment Cream on the pimples and blackheads which by the way isn't scent-free either as claimed. It has the same mild medicinal scent that does bother me sometimes. The cream visibly helps with reducing the bulge and redness associated with the newly born zit and I wake up to flattened spots with every use. As for the blackheads, it takes time for them to clear out but it surely does that too. 

Since I only have occasional breakouts, I can’t say how it would perform for someone who has severe acne and quite frankly, I don’t consider the ingredients potent enough for that matter. If you breakout occasionally and want a pocket-friendly on-the-spot treatment, this is worth checking out.

You might like it if...

• You use this duo for occasional breakouts
• It doesn't dry out the skin
• It doesn't cause any stinging
• There is no bad scent
• It helps clear out blackheads
• It holds back the growth pimples
• It's easy on the pocket

You might not like it if...

• You have got severe acne 
• You don't use it persistently
• The scent bothers you

My rating
 
4/5

RSL Acne Be Gone Acne Face Wash costs PKR 95 and the Treatment Cream is priced at PKR 150. To purchase online, visit Just4girls.pk or BeautyArena.pk.

What do you think about it? Have you tried it?

PR sample(s) sent for review. This however has not affected my opinion at all. My loyalty is to my readers and being honest is my utmost responsibility. I have given my sincere opinion about the product(s) mentioned in the post. For more details, please go through my Disclosure Policy.

If you have any questions, you can have a look at FAQ or email me on info@sarahassansblog.com.

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant – Review

Are you fond of chemical exfoliation?

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
A silky, toner-like consistency enhances penetration to maximize exfoliation.

What makes this product unique?

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid rapidly exfoliates both the skin's surface and inside the pore, reshaping the pore lining, unclogging pores and improving skin cell turnover rate. The result is a dramatic improvement in the skin's appearance, feel, and function which leads to healthier skin. There is a great deal of research indicating that BHA (beta hydroxy acid) increases collagen production and drastically smoothes the surface of skin.

Additionally, BHA has antibacterial properties that attack blemish-causing bacteria. The lightweight, non-occlusive formula allows for a faster and deeper exfoliation rate than our gel or lotion BHA products, so it's an ideal choice for stubborn clogged pores or blackheads.

This product is 100% fragrance- and colorant-free with a pH range of 3.2-3.6. Every Paula's Choice BHA product is formulated with additional soothing agents.

Who is this product for?

All skin types may use this product, but the texture is especially suited for those with normal to oily or combination skin, stubborn blackheads, and blemish-prone skin. It can also be used regularly to eliminate calluses on feet, elbows and knees.

Warnings:
Those allergic to aspirin (acetylsalicylate) should not use products containing salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid).

 Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

My thoughts
Before I begin, I should mention that my sister, who has an oily skin, bought this product for herself a few weeks ago. She got it for it promises to decongest the skin and cease growth of occasional breakouts due to its anti-bacterial action. A blocked pore is one of the leading causes of zit formation and this product has visibly helped deal with that in her case. She is actually quite happy with it. I tried it too and I share more or less the same views as hers except that it slightly stings my skin upon contact which is why I’ve limit its use to twice a week only.

The liquid comes in a plastic bottle with a tiny hole on top for dispensing. Though it appears like water, the consistency isn’t runny so you don’t risk wasting any of it. There is no scent at all which is a plus. We pour in a few drops on our palm and put it on directly without using any cotton ball because it just wastes the product. Thankfully, it doesn’t feel harsh or cause any dryness. In fact, it feels rather sticky immediately after you spread it over your face. This doesn’t bother us because we both use it at night and also it soaks in after a while. Make sure you put this at least twenty minutes before your regular night cream or serum.

Since I haven’t used it as religiously as my sister (who uses it every night), I can only say that it keeps my face clear and blemish-free. However, initially when I started using it every night I found it caused tiny bumps on the irritated zones of my skin which I guess was due to over-exfoliation. So beware! It’s not a good idea to use it frequently if your skin happens to be sensitive. My sister, on the other hand, tolerates nightly exfoliation without a hitch. After regular use of around three weeks, she feels it has made her skin appear plus feel smoother and has also unclogged pores though the stubborn blackheads have yet to clear up completely. It has also helped balance oil production on her face. Though she still has those occasional breakouts here and there but this potion negates their growth and gets rid of the scar quickly.

All in all, we’re happy with our purchase. I think this product is best suited for someone who gets occasional breakouts and wants something effective to decongest blocked pores. However, sensitive skin types might not get on too well with this.

You might like it if...

• You have combination/oily skin
• You are fond of chemical exfoliation
• It has no smell
• It doesn't dry out your skin
• It halts the growth of pimples
• It clears up blemishes quickly 
• It helps clear up blocked pores
• It makes your skin feel and look smooth with regular use

You might not like it if...

• You've got a sensitive skin and it burns
• The initial sticky film bothers you

My rating
 
4/5

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant costs $23 for 4oz (120ml) on Beauty.com. I purchased mine online for PKR 3150 from Rouge.

What do you think about it? Have you tried it out yet?

Irish Rain Revitalising Facial Oil – Review

Since the product claims to be very hydrating, I let my mum try it for a month. It turns out that she really enjoys using it as a night moisturizer. Of course I had to give it a shot myself to understand what she really meant.

Revitalising facial oil 30 ml
An effective blend of potent essential oils and natural plant extracts to restore vitality to dull skin, smooth your skin’s appearance and enhance radiance, for a healthy, glowing complexion.

Rosehip oil is a dry oil that sinks easily into the skin without leaving a greasy sheen. The oil works on a cellular level to rejuvenate skin. Rich in vitamin C, high in omega 3 & 6 essential fatty acids known to heal scar tissue.

These amazing benefits have the added effects of essential oils Sandalwood:calming & soothing, Cardamon:antibacterial & healing & Lavender: to promote cell growth.

Irish Rain Revitalising Facial Oil

My thoughts
For starters, it smells wonderful (probably because of the Lavender in it) and I love that it comes with a dropper. I like to apply two-three drops of the product on my face. Yes, just three drops and trust me, the 30ml product will last you ages!

On my combination skin, it does feel slightly greasy however my mum thinks it doesn’t in fact she says it provides just the right amount of hydration for her skin. I asked her if she noticed any difference in her skin’s texture. She says her skin no longer looks dull anymore. She loves how it rejuvenates her skin by making it smooth, fresh and glowy. Also, she was suffering from some skin irritation before she began using it. It really soothed her skin and the irritation was gone for good. Since it’s been just a month, I cannot really say if it healed any scars or spots – it’s au naturel and products like that require time to make a real difference.

Overall, mommy likes it! If you have dry/normal or mature skin, you definitely need to check this out. I personally do not like using oils on my face because no matter how light or non greasy it is, my skin tends to break out so it’s a no-no for combination/oily skin.

You might like it if…

• You have dry/normal or mature skin
• You think it makes your skin smooth and glowy
• It smells lovely
• It soothes your skin

You might not like it if…

• You have combination/oily skin
• Your skin is prone to breakouts

My rating
 
4/5

Irish Rain Revitalising Facial Oil is priced at PKR 3200 and is distributed by Love Organic Pakistan. Check out their Facebook page for more details.

What do you think about it? Have you tried it?

PR sample(s) sent for review. This however has not affected my opinion at all. My loyalty is to my readers and being honest is my utmost responsibility. I have given my sincere opinion about the product(s) mentioned in the post. For more details, please go through my Disclosure Policy.

If you have any questions, you can have a look at FAQ or email me on info@sarahassansblog.com.

Zakia’s Morocco 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil – Review

There’s been plenty of hype about Argan oil in the recent years. This is my first pure Argan oil experience. Keep reading to find out more!

100% Pure Organic Argan Oil
Zakia’s Morocco offers you the best Moroccan Argan Oil, the beauty secret of Moroccan women for centuries. Argan oil is recognized as a fundamental element in cosmetic care and is now a favorite of the beauty industry. Zakia’s Morocco has the best Argan Oil for skin, hair and nails. Chosen specially from favored suppliers directly in the Agadir region, our Argan oil is 100% pure, organic and free from all chemicals and minerals. You will find no chemical additives silicon or parabens in our formulas. It is beneficial for all skin types.

No PEG, no mineral oil, no silicon, no Parabens! 50 ml / 1.69 fl.oz

Zakia’s Morocco 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil

My thoughts
Zakia’s Morocco offers 100% pure Argan Oil for a much affordable price tag if you compare it to others available on the market. It's been described as a light-weight hydrating oil that moisturizes the skin with it's high content of Vit E, essential fatty acids and protect against fine lines and wrinkles with its antioxidant properties. It also claims to add shine to the hair and strengthen dry/brittle nails.

While Argan oil may be a miracle worker for some, it does have one noticeable drawback – it causes me to break out. I thought perhaps it was something else but whenever I resumed applying it on my face, I could see tiny bumps emerging in a day or two. I googled and found that Argan oil is rich in oleic acid which is comedogenic. Those with small pores (dry/normal skin types) don’t let much of it to sink in and hence rarely develop comedones (blocked pores). Since I have a combination skin, I consider myself as one of the unlucky few because it truly moisturizes the skin deeply leaving it soft, plump and hydrated with the very first use. Just two to three drops go a long way.

Speaking of the scent, it’s kind of a mild nutty aroma with some hints of spice. I find it quite refreshing. Upon application, it doesn’t soak into the skin immediately but it doesn’t feel heavy either – provided that you don’t go overboard (don’t even think about that). There's no denying that gently massaging this oil at night feels very soothing. Moreover, it would sure ease any flakiness on your skin in the colder months.

I personally enjoy using it the most on my hands. It feels ultra light and imparts a subtle glow. It makes my hands feel smooth and soft throughout the day but it doesn't replace my regular hand cream if I need extra moisture especially in winter. I haven’t noticed any major difference in my nails except that they appear healthier every time I use it. Had there been a pump, it would’ve been easier to dispense the required amount and re-apply when needed; the oil spills easily if you aren't careful so the bottle isn't very travel-friendly in my opinion. I have also given it a trial on my hair and it does what it promises. It makes my tresses shiny and less frizzy though it can weigh your hair down if used too much.

Overall, this oil is most suitable for aging/dry/normal skin type and for those who want an all natural nourishing treat for the skin. If you've got sensitive or acne-prone skin, this is not for you.

You might like it if…

• You have aging/dry/normal skin type
• You’re looking for a natural moisturizer
• You use it to tame dry/frizzy hair
• You use it sparingly (2-3 drops)
• It makes your skin feel soft and plump
• You find it affordable
• You enjoy the mild nutty spicy aroma
• You use it on your body/nails/cuticles
• It’s 100% natural skin care product

You might not like it…

• It clogs pores and causes breakouts
• You wish the packaging came with a pump
• You apply too much and it feels heavy

My rating

3.5/5

Zakia’s Morocco 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil retails for $29.99 (50 ml) but right now it’s on an offer with 30% off plus FREE Shipping for $14.99 (coupon code: 30FREE). It can be purchased from ZakiasMorocco.com. Catch Zakia's Morocco on Facebook to stay updated!

What do you think about it? Have you tried Argan oil?

PR sample(s) sent for review. This however has not affected my opinion at all. My loyalty is to my readers and being honest is my utmost responsibility. I have given my sincere opinion about the product(s) mentioned in the post. For more details, please go through my Disclosure Policy.

If you have any questions, you can have a look at FAQ or email me on info@sarahassansblog.com.

Zakia's Morocco The Perfect Skin Rejuvinator Face and Body Mask – Review

The first and one of the chief ingredients in this mask is Moroccon clay which is also known as Ghassoul -- a natural mineral clay mined in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Apart from rejuvenating the skin, the mask intends to target oily zones on the face and deep clean the pores. Keep reading to know if it works for me.

The Perfect Skin Rejuvinator Face and Body Mask
Help tone and refresh your face and body.  Using 7 specially chosen exotic plant extracts this clay mask will do wonders.  It is our newest addition to a long line of pure, natural and traditional skin care products.

The Ghassoul or Moroccan clay is a pure and natural argile saponifère extract from the Atlas mountains. Known the world over it has been used by Moroccan women for their entire bathing rituals, both body and hair.  Indeed, "Ghassoul" translated from Arabic is actually "the matter that cleanses".

Directions:
Use as a mask from head to toe helping to tone and soften your skin. It rejuvinates and regenerates the skin by removing dead skin cells that accumulates over time, removes black heads and rough patches and tightens the pores. It is also an excellent fortifier for the scalp and hair by reducing the secretion of sébum. 

No Parabens, No Pegs, No silicon, No mineral oil - just pure, organic  goodness for you face and body. 250 ml / 8.45 fl. oz

Zakia's Morocco The Perfect Skin Rejuvinator Face and Body Mask

Zakia's Morocco The Perfect Skin Rejuvinator Face and Body Mask

My thoughts
After going through the ingredients, I can tell that everything it has is natural. There are no preservatives, silicones or parabens; if you’re someone who digs organic products then you should definitely checkout this brand. You can find more details about the ingredients here.

To be honest, I have only used it two or three times and not as much as my sister has (who has an oily skin) because she’s quite impressed. I, on the other hand find it very drying for my combination skin if I use it very often. From both of our experiences, we find this mask very effective at clarifying the skin and deep cleaning pores with an added bonus of shrinking their appearance. Yes, it visibly reduces the pore size which is amazing!

The clay comes in a huge jar which is gonna last you a long time. As you can see in the photo above, the product is very finely milled. You just have to pour little water/rose water (which ever you prefer) on a tea spoon amount in a bowl and make a luscious paste. The scent is moderately strong but not in a bad way; it smells of herbs and plants to be precise. If you have used Henna, it pretty much smells like that because it has Lawsonia inermis (henna) in it but it doesn't stain my skin in case you are wondering.

The best part about it is that it feels very soothing on the skin. There is a slight minty sensation which is absolutely relaxing to cool you off on a hot summer day. As the mask dries, it tightens greatly so I would suggest applying a thin layer instead of a thick one which could feel a bit uncomfortable.  While rinsing off, I massage my skin for up to two to three minutes to buff away the dead skin cells. My skin definitely feels squeaky clean and smooth every time I use it. Since it could be drying, do not forget to moisturize. I personally haven't used it as a body mask because I prefer using a scrub but you can try that too.

Overall, I think it’s a good mask for combination to oily skin types. It's a quick fix for open pores and helps keep sebum in control.

You might like it if...

• You have combination to oily skin type
• It reduces the appearance of pores
• It's all natural. No parabens, silicones or pegs
• Your skin feels clean and smooth with its use
• You are happy with the quantity

You might not like it if...

• You have dry to normal skin type
• The minty/tingling sensation bothers you
• You have a sensitive skin
• You are not fond of herbal scents

My rating

3.5/5

Zakia's Morocco The Perfect Skin Rejuvinator Face and Body Mask costs $19.99 and can be purchased from ZakiasMorocco.com. Catch Zakia's Morocco on Facebook to stay updated!

What do you think about clay masks? Which one's your favorite?

PR sample(s) sent for review. This however has not affected my opinion at all. My loyalty is to my readers and being honest is my utmost responsibility. I have given my sincere opinion about the product(s) mentioned in the post. For more details, please go through my Disclosure Policy.

If you have any questions, you can have a look at FAQ or email me on info@sarahassansblog.com.

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque – Review

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque needs no introduction. It’s one of the most raved products out there. After hearing so many good things about it, which only further sparked my curiosity, I thought it was time to try it myself.

Mint Julep Masque
Mint Julep Masque is the original natural home treatment to help dry up pimples, rinse away blackheads and shrink enlarged pores. Simply apply Mint Julep Masque to your clean face and neck. As it firms and hardens within minutes, it draws out impurities from your pores. After the masque is removed, your skin will feel clean, refreshed and smooth. Even for individuals who are fortunate to be free of skin problems, Mint Julep Masque is a refreshing facial treatment that helps relax tired muscles and ease tension lines on the face and neck.

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

My thoughts
Before we go into the details, I just want to say that I’ve always enjoyed using clay masks. I feel that a clay mask really pulls out the impurities from the pores and leaves your skin looking fresh and clean. It also helps get rid of the excess oil on your face which can potentially block pores and cause breakouts. Previously I was using Freeman Facial Clay Mask Avocado & Oatmeal and St. Ives Mineral Clay Firming Mask and I liked them both but if I’ve to pick one out of them, it’s going to be Mint Julep. This mask has really blown me away!

As you can see, it’s a green paste that comes in a slender squeeze tube. The consistency is a bit thicker compared to others that I’ve tried. The thickness may come across as rather annoying if you don’t keep the tube upright and the clay settles to the bottom and it would take time to dispense the mask out. So make sure it’s kept standing where ever you put it. I apply an even layer on my damp face and let it dry. A thin layer is all you need to get the job done. Not to mention, there is a refreshing minty scent to it and along with that it gives a slight tingly sensation which is very soothing. In case you’re wondering, the cool feeling is short-term and doesn’t burn so I assume it wouldn’t irritate if you have a sensitive skin type.

I keep in on for at least half an hour after which it’s completely dried and feels stiff. The reason why I’d choose it over other clay masks is because I can actually view the oil being sucked out from the pore which is something I’ve never experienced from a clay mask before. I see tiny damp spots particularly in my T-zone which makes me believe that it really cleanses the pores like a magnet. After massaging gently, I wash it off it with warm water and pat dry. The results? I wouldn’t say it rinses away deep blackheads on my nose but the small ones are gone for good and it does shrink the pores around my nose visibly. I’ve also noticed that it dries up those nasty zits with continuous use. Since it has a drying effect, don't forget to moisturize afterwards.

Overall, I believe Mint Julep is a top-notch mask for combination/oily skin and it’s a definite repurchase for me. I know the price is a bit steep but I’m happy with the amount.

You might like it if...

• You expect it to clear up superficial blackheads
• You expect it to dry up tiny zits
• You fancy minty scent/tingling sensation
• You expect it to draw out dirt leaving your skin clean, fresh & smooth
• You find the squeeze tube packaging hygienic

You might not like it if...

• You think it's expensive
• The tingling sensation bothers you
• It dries out your skin (moisturize!)

My rating

4.5/5

You can purchase Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque for PKR 1199 from BeautyInBudget4u. You can also buy online from Just4girls.pk, Drugstore.com, Ulta and SallyBeauty.com.

What do you think about this mask? Have you tried it yet?