3 treats for 3 budgets

This is not an ad, however Cult Beauty kindly sent these products to me.

It's a few months since I shared a 3 treats for 3 budgets post - for a number of reasons - firstly, I've been really ill and, as a result, have changed my posting schedule as I can't keep up in the way I used to. Secondly, I wasn't sure if people were still going to be buying beauty products during lockdown - there seems to be some disagreement among bloggers about whether or not we should be talking about beauty during the pandemic but my views have gone up so I think that people are glad of the distraction. That being said, there are still birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and many reasons to celebrate during the lockdown - the world is still turning and if we can afford a little treat to cheer ourselves up or just for making it through another stressful week, then why not? Like I always say, you really don't need to spend a lot of money or break the bank, to get something nice or something effective and my first product costs less than £10!

Under £10: The Ordinary is Cult Beauty's Brand of The Month for April, which means there is free international shipping on all products. This product - AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is one of the brands most raved about products. At first, I thought it was just ok but that's because my skin is very accustomed to acids but when I left it on a little longer than than the recommended time, I could really see the results and benefits. As you can tell from the name, this mask combines Alpha Hydroxy Acids with Beta Hydroxy Acids so it will exfoliate the surface of the skin but also penetrate the pores more deeply and it's oil soluble so it can deeply clean the pores to prevent blemishes. It has a pipette applicator, which isn't the easiest to use as the formula is so watery. It is also bright red in colour so try to do it when you won't have to answer the door or will have some time to yourself as you will basically look like you are bleeding or having a vampire facial. There's no denying how smooth and soft your skin will be afterwards though and it will look clear and radiant. A real bargain at £6.30. The only thing I would add is to be very vigilant with your SPF after using this as it will make your skin more sensitive to the sun and if you are new to acids, start by leaving it on the skin for only 2-3 minutes.

£10-50:  I have a lot of very expensive palettes but I always maintain that the formula and texture of Too Faced palettes is right up there with them. Their latest release - the Born This Way The Natural Nudes Skin-Centric Eye Shadow just spoke to me when I saw it! I love that it has both cool and warm tones, will suit a spectrum of skin tones and has everything I could need to create both day and night looks. The formula and texture is as buttery soft and dreamy as you'd expect from the brand and they work particularly well on less than firm lids as they are infused with hyaluronic acid and coconut water. The longevity is second to none and it's an all round beautiful palette - a real treat either for yourself or a loved one. A full review with swatches will follow soon!

£50+: When you think of the faces of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jessica Alba and Emily Ratajkowski, you think flawless, glowing and texture-free skin, right? When I read that their facialist Shani Darden had released a line of skincare products, I knew I had to try some of them (also my sister in law's name is Shani so that was another incentive!). Texture Reform was top of my list and if your budget allows, I would highly recommend it because it is very effective, yet suitable for even sensitive skin like mine. It contains lactic acid (a gentle AHA), niacinamide, coffee extract and aloe vera so whilst it exfoliates and brightens the skin, it also balances it with the calming ingredients. It also contains a mild form of retinol (Retinyl Palmitate) so, again, be very careful with your SPF the mornings after use. It is used at night and depending on how accustomed your skin is to acids, you might start with just once weekly, but it can be built up to nightly use. The result is smooth, glowy skin with refined pores and fine lines. What I also love is that there is no redness or dry skin issues after using it - I just wake to better skin and I also love that it seems to help to eliminate those annoying little under the skin bumps that can appear along the jaw line. Pricey but a little goes a long way and the results are worth it!

Have you tried any of these products? Are you planning on any treats this month? Have you a reason to celebrate? Let's face it, every day that we wake is a reason to celebrate when it's something not afforded to everyone, especially at the moment. Be grateful and be kind.

Thanks for reading! 

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All products are bought by me, unless otherwise stated. These products were kindly sent to me by Cult Beauty. Anything marked with a * has been gifted without any obligation. I don't do sponsored posts. Opinion is always my own. Affiliate links may be used.