Imago Skincare Review

Skincare is never an easy review to do, it takes time to see if your skin has benefitted from the products. I always tell clients that I shall happily do a review but it won’t be anytime soon. To get a true reflection of how the skincare has worked for you you must give it a chance and stick with it.

It’s not often you can instantly know your skin is going to love a skincare range but that is exactly what happened when I started to use Imago Skincare. My skin loved it and it really did not take long until I noticed my oiliness had reduced and my skin appeared brighter and smoother. I took to my group to tell the members how I loved this brand and I was not alone. Many women rave about it which is a testimonial to how good it actually is. It is all handmade and natural so no nasties in any of the products which is a bonus.

This is what Pauline, the creator of these products has to say

I started making skincare several years ago after attending training courses in Forres, Scotland with Kolbjorn Borseth, director of Aromantic skincare. Ever since the training, I have been working towards creating my range of products containing the best ingredients to nourish and care for your skin . The products were designed for specific skin types or needs and are formulated with ingredients to obtain the desired results. I have been known to spend 3 years trying to get a product right. I believe that I have a natural ability to choose ingredients that make the best possible product.

As a qualified aromatherapist, I use well selected essential oils to fragrance my skincare and the oils are specifically chosen to enhance their effectiveness. The products have a holistic aspect in that the essential oils have therapeutic effects, such as stress relief or enhanced sleep. I have been using my products as a therapist for several years and have received very positive responses from my clients, who often comment that they cannot believe the difference to their skin! I am now ready to move into the wholesale market so that other therapists, and their clients, can access the products.

Imago handmade and bespoke products have been in development since 2004. My products are derived from plant and marine sources!

Out of all the products I tried, there is a ”hero” and that has to be the marine active complex, a little goes a very long way. It feeds and plumps the skin and the effects are unreal, giving you a healthy glowing complexion. Apply it like you would a serum, one pump before your moisturiser. It was actually created as an anti ageing night treatment but fans of the product have been using it through the day too. Read on if you like the science…

The following are just four out of fifteen ingredients used in this product.  Eco Marine Algae Extract – Tests showed the capacity to stimulate cellular proliferation which significantly increased collagen synthesis by 19.3% using a 2% concentration in only 24 hours compared to an untreated control sample. Even when used at 0.5% there is a gradual increase collagen synthesis of 17% after 72 hours compared to untreated samples. EcoCert approved ethanol is used to make an extraction of Cylindrotheca fusiformis which is an oceanic marine algae. Because of the risk of pollution in the seas, the producer grows the microalgae in a purpose-built eco facility. This not only guarantees the purity of the algae but also means that the eco-balance of the oceans are not disturbed by uncontrolled harvesting. The algae give off gases that are harvested to heat the facility and it is powered by solar panels to give a low carbon footprint. Argan Oil – alpha-tocopherols, carotene, phytosterols and Omega 6 fatty acids. Pumpkin Seed Oil – high zinc content, an excellent lifting oil for dry, mature and damaged skin. high in vitamins A, beta-carotene, B2, B3, potassium, magnesium. It is also high in omega 9, 6 and 3. Said to contain high quantities of vitamin A, beta-carotene, and vitamins B2 and B3 Pomegranate Seed Oil – Contains Vitamins A, B D and E, also contains Punicic Acid which is known as Omega 5. This rare essential fatty acid is abundant in Pomegranate Seed Oil and this oil is the only known botanical source. Omega 5 has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is a good antioxidant. It tackles free radicals so delays skin ageing making the oil very regenerative and even helps to stimulate collagen production. Studies show that it provides protection from sun damage. Do not consider this to be an oil with high SPF because it is not but studies suggest that if sun damage has already occurred pomegranate seed oil can help to diminish that damage. Pomegranate Extract – help to regulate cell turnover and give the cell time to divide normally and form completely. Arctic Cranberry Extract – provides Essential Fatty Acids and Tocotrienols, offering a three-in-one kit for nourishing, moisturising and protecting the skin in the most natural way.

15 ml bottle – £12

Another great product was the Sooth and Purify green clay mask, it’s rejuvenating, healing, and pore tightening in action – great for shrinking large pores and removing impurities. It contains Herbal Extract of Wild Pansy and Chickweed, which has a synergistic effect and is cleansing, soothing and helpful for spot prone skin. Contains a special formula of 3 plant extracts from the South American Rain Forests which has been proven to show significant improvement to spot prone skin.  Comes with a separate pot of green clay to mix with the mask. Green Clay is detoxifying due to its unique blend of minerals. (copper, dolomite, manganese, silica, copper, zinc, phosphorous, magnesium and calcium). 

50ml – £12 and includes a 20ml pot of Green Clay

The zesty lime exfoliator was fresh and left skin silky smooth removing dead skin cells. It has Bamboo exfoliant (no plastics to pollute our seas) and coconut butter.  Formulated with Lavender water and Castor oil and Jojoba oil to really get rid of all impurities, revealing beautiful, healthy and glowing skin all ready for the application of the marine complex and firm and nourish moisturiser.

60ml – £10

Large open pores are an issue for me so Pauline gave me the pore tightening solution to help reduce these pores and control that oil. I did feel this helped tighten everything up.

100ml £15

The balancing calendula cleanser was another firm favourite. This again helps target problem skin, oiliness and open pores. Your make up literally melts away using this cleanser. Its so creamy and rich and your skin feels gorgeous after use. I like to remove it with water but you can just remove with cotton wool too.

100ml £13

Finally, I used the firm and nourish Moisturiser

Hyaluronic acid has skin rejuvenation properties – it’s nicknamed the fountain of youth.  Produced by the body but reduces as we get older.  Cucumber extract – contains a host of ingredients to support the skin at a cellular level.  Pumpkin Seed Oil -Firms the skin, Lupine Peptides – contains adaptogens to restore suppleness and glow to the skin.  Vitamin A -skin regenerating.   (these are just a few of the skin nourishing and anti – ageing ingredients in this product.)

50ml £16

To order any of these products you can visit :

Link for 10% discount: Tried and Tested 

Website: www.imagonaturalskincare.co.uk

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/shotleybridgeimagoskincare

 

 

 

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Comcit Facial at The Powder Room Washington

I speak about this salon regularly on my facebook group.

If you have not yet visited ask yourself why!. It is beautiful and the treatments delivered are top quality with such friendly experienced staff. Check out some of these pictures of the salon itself before I continue with the blog about my recent treatment.

Last week I visited The Powder Room Washington to have a Comcit facial. This facial is a favourite with all the celebrities at the minute and there is no doubt why. It is one of the best facials currently on the market, with a prescription to suit all skin types, each with different results. The press is all over this facial and you need to try it to believe all the hype, you won’t be disappointed!

Comcit elite the is most exciting skin rejuvenation system yet.

You can choose between

MICRODERMABRASION
Flawless skin in an instant, this treatment offers a safe, controlled method of skin exfoliation and allows superficial peeling of the stratum corneum, reducing its thickness through mechanical abrasion of dead skin cells .this also stimulates new cell regeneration which results in firmer and fresher complexion. super – buffing facial achieves an instant lift. £55.00

H20 GLOW red carpet ready
This is crystal clears most intense hydration treatment yet, giving red carpet ready results. The h20 glow facial delivers freezing cold oxygen throughout the epidermis to nourish and invigorate skin cells, while the comcit micro channelling roller allows hyaluronic acid to reach deeper dermal layers via microchannels; plumping and re-balancing the skin from inside out .the result is brighter, fresher, hydrated skin that glows with a youthful radiance. £75.00

FROZEN FACIAL (the one I had)
The most effective and advanced skin rejuvenation treatment yet, tackling lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation .enjoy a full cleanse and gentle exfoliation followed by our groundbreaking comcit elite treatment, using cryo oxygenated micro channelling rollers to infuse the skin with a potent active infusion serum, tailor-made to tackle the individual’s concerns.
stimulates collagen production while plumping and firming the skin. Treatment is finished with the application crystal clear facemask providing an extra hit of hydration, a truly remarkable treatment. £85.00

It is recommended a course of 6 treatments 1 every 2 weeks. Then one every 1 – 2 months

I had the frozen facial and it was amazing. You can literally go make up free for weeks after having this facial. Your skin also gets better day by day. I have a series of pictures where my skin is literally glowing off the results. This facial was great for getting my skin ready for a special theatre show I was involved in this week. My skin is plumper, more hydrated and dewy. Check out the results!

                BEFORE                                                                       AFTER

                      

AFTER OVER A FEW DAYS (all makeup free)

I honestly can not recommend this facial enough. Do you have a special event or is your skin dull or tired looking?. This will be just the pick up you need. Maybe you have some skin problems that this could help with. I took a picture of the dirty grey crystals that were left behind after my facial, this is all dead skin. the crystals start off white as you can see in the picture.

The salon has recently been renovated too. I love Joannes style, it’s every girl’s dream. It’s so beautiful! Just look at this flower wall and the treatment room where I had my treatment.

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Anyone who would like to book a facial can do so by contacting the salon by telephone: 0191 417 9036

?NOT YOUR ORDINARY FACIAL?

 

 

 

 

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The Hydra Facial – Newcastle Hair and Beauty

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Hail The Hydra Facial and Newcastle Hair and Beauty Clinic! I am serious when I tell you that this is the BEST facial I have ever experienced and I have experienced many many facials. Now it is not the most relaxing like some I have had but for instant, visible results it is incredible.

The Hydra Facial is a firm favorite with the celebs. It claims to restore your skin to its healthiest state by removing impurities and replenishing your skin with essential nutrients. It is a step by step treatment that rids dead skin cells and unblocks pores by extraction, which was my favorite part might I add. You actually feel the muck being pulled by a suction from your pores and it is hugely satisfying, not only that but they then fill these opened clean pores with skin loving serums to hydrate and plump the skin helping with fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin is instantly looking revitalized and just feels so clean and hydrated.This is a medical grade facial with no down time and is completely pain free. Since having my facial I have been using the products pictured above to try and help with my oily skin and to compliment the facial results. They are lovely products and have helped massively with my oily T zone, these are not essential but I would recommend them if you are wanting to prolong your facial results. I filmed this treatment for my new beauty TV show coming soon but I could not wait till autumn to tell you all about it. If you want to find out more click HERE

Now this treatment does not come cheap as this is a medical procedure but it delivers results which is what people want for their money.

*** 1st Time Clients Deal Alert ***

The skin health for life is on offer for £99 instead of £120

and

The acne & anti ageing is £130 instead of £160 .

Each of the products are £60

To book call: 0191 232 2800

You must quote ”Tried and Tested” on booking to receive the above offer

 

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Clarins Red Room – House Of Fraser

After having the worlds worst cold I needed a little TLC. I knew exactly where to go for a pick me up that is not only great value but a great indulgent luxury treatment. Having been before I knew I would be well looked after.

Did you know Clarins in House of Fraser, Metro Centre offers a RED ROOM treatment? It is a 45 minute facial within a private treatment room. It is amazing and a facial that you wont experience anywhere else as Clarins staff are uniquely trained.

Clarins is the leading Number 1 in skincare so I would expect you to be shocked if I told you that you can get a 45 minute facial for £15 and that the £15 was then redeemable against any purchase made at the time of your appointment, making you facial FREE!!! Yes that’s right FREE!!! You cant even get a Facial with budget products in a salon for that price ladies.

I am a big fan of Clarins and this facial is a great way to try products and find favorites. Katherine is very informative and so passionate about the brand. Katherine first asked about my current skin care regime and asked what I was currently using, she then studied my skin to help her pick the products that would be right for me. Katherine ran through every product she used and the benefits. I particularly like the mask and the serum. The facial was so relaxing with an added bonus of some neck and arm massage. My skin feels amazing!

After the treatment you are offered ”a hint of colour” make over. Great if you have some shopping to do or are going out that evening, although it is just a mini make over but a nice chance to experience Clarins make up also. I opted out on this today as I was only planning on going home and wanted the full benefits of the facial products all night.

I will definitely be returning again and again for this facial, it is my port of call for a ”pick me up”. Katherine and the girls are very kind and very professional, a credit to Clarins!!

If you feel you would like to try this amazing £15 facial deal then I’d urge you to book asap. Last time I blogged this deal got booked up very very quickly.

To Book call House of Fraser Metro Centre Clarins counter on : 0191 493 2424 ext 7954

Lisa Clarke Guthrie's photo.
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Decléor Hydra Floral Hydrating Active Lotion

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Where do I start?. When I was introduced to this NEW moisturiser I was skeptical to say the least. A moisturiser that is the consistency of water…naaaa!!!! We all know the brand Decleor and we know they are a firm favorite in the skincare and spa industry but I wasn’t convinced with this new product. Now we all know I suffer from oily skin so I have to make sure skincare matches my skin type as anything too heavy just melts off and I end up looking like a wax work literally so sometimes I even avoid moisturiser when applying my foundation for a night out!!!. I never suffer from acne but I do suffer from open pores. The first time I picked this up to try  I nearly used it as a micellar water and had to remind myself that is is actually a moisturiser. I shook out a few drops on the palms of my hands, rubbed them together and patted into my face. Instantly on my hands you could feel this was not water. It was silky and light and smelt amazing as all Decleor products do. My skin drank it up with no residue left so my make up went on beautifully. My skin felt hydrated but without the moisturiser after feel but with a luminous glow. A big hit with Mrs T&T.

”Pollution and emotional stress can accentuate skin dehydration. Combining the freshness of a cosmetic water with the hydration power of a cream, this active lotion offers skin continuous hydration. Enriched with Moringa Olifeira extract providing protection against pollution particles, it reveals a beautiful skin texture. Skin feels plumped, with dehydration lines appearing smoothed. Skin glows and feels fresh.

Apply 2-3 drops into your hands (no cotton pad needed) and massage into a cleansed face and neck.Use as either a moisturiser after the Aromessence or as a moisture booster for your usual cream by using this beforehand.”

 

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CLINIQUE GIFT LAUNCH – HOUSE OF FRASER INTU METRO CENTRE

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What a great evening I had last night at the Clinique gift launch in House of Fraser Intu Metro Centre. There was gift bags, nibbles, sparkle and make – up demos. As you can see I stuck to water and I loved the branded bottles although I didn’t lay off the cakes and had far too many. Clinique is very well know for skin care but has really become a rival in the cosmetics now too. As you all know I am a huge fan of their beyond perfecting foundation and concealer  and their chubby highlighting stick . The girls are lovely and full of knowledge about the brand. Now is a great time to buy from Clinique as they are currently on ”gift” which means if you buy two or more products, one being skincare or foundation you get this pictured gift completely FREE. Included in the gift is a mixture of skincare and cosmetics, including a handbag size of my favorite foundation which will be matched to suit. What you waiting for girls, stock up on your favorite products or give Clinique a try!. I can recommend the girls in House of Fraser to help you find the perfect products to suit. Gift runs from 5/5/16 to 21/5/16.

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Murad Facial – House of Fraser Intu Metro Centre

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Today I was invited to try a Murad facial at its treatment room located in House Of Fraser, Intu Metro Centre, Gateshead.

Murad is an American skincare brand that was founded in 1989 by dermatologist Dr Howard Murad. The products are all based on using the best of science to get measurable results and there are prescriptive ranges designed for anti-ageing, blemish control, environmental protection, deeper wrinkles, discolouration and dark spots and a range specifically for men. I was particularly excited by the anti-aging blemish range because now at 35 I realise how important it is to look after your skin (better late than never I suppose).

I arrived at the Murad counter and was greeted by Sarah who asked me to fill in a medical form. I already knew I was having the AHA Rapid Exfoliator Anti-Ageing Facial which is a glycolic peel which gives incredible anti-ageing results, for healthier and younger-looking skin.

Sarah led me to the treatment room which presents itself with dark walls and dim lighting, giving me an instant relaxed feel. I removed my top, took down my bra straps and got comfy under the thick quilt on the bed.

After cleansing my skin, Sarah then prepped my skin with salicylic acid and then applied a glycolic peel along with a lip balm to protect the lips. She warned me that it may tingle and checked to make sure my skin felt OK while the active ingredients started work. Different people’s skin reacts in different ways; on a scale of 1 to 10 from normal to painful I was at a 1, there was virtually no tingle even. While the peel was working I was treated to a arm and hand massage.

After removing the peel, next up was the clarifying mask. It was very cool and calming. The mask was left for around 5 minutes. After Sarah removed the mask she applied a top layer of cream and my treatment was complete.

Murad is a prescription facial prescribed to treat a number of different skin problems. Please don’t book in with Murad if you are wanting a full on relaxing facial. Murad facials are done with the consultant wearing gloves to protect their hands as they do numerous facials per day and the acid would not be kind to their skin if they were to expose their hands to every treatment. Murad also don’t use the hot towels etc you would come to expect from a relaxing facial either. Do not let this put you off, I was actually relaxed and the thought of having prescription skincare working on my skin to help claw back the years filled me with glee.

Check out the other facial treatments Murad offer also!!!

My first visit to Murad, where I discovered the youth cam can be found here

To book this facial call 0191 4938869

Facial Cost : £55

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CREME DE LA MER

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* OK, so whats with the hype with this ”Miracle Broth”? Starting at £60 for 15ml it needs to be a miracle right?!!! Everyone has heard of Creme De La Mer as its a firm favorite with the celebrities, but is it really worth the very expensive price tag? All the reviews online say it is! It is literally raved about and you would find it hard to find a bad review to be honest. So whats the story behind the brand? ”When aerospace physicist Dr. Max Huber was burned in a laboratory accident, he went on a crusade to restore his skin. ”What began as one man’s journey became a transformative experience that would be whispered about all over the world. Inspired by the renewing energies of the sea, Huber fermented nutrient-rich kelp with other natural ingredients. 12 years and 6,000 experiments later, his Miracle Broth™ was born – and Huber’s skin visibly restored. Word of Dr. Huber’s perfected formula spread, captivating new devotees. Their transformative journey was just beginning.”

I have been using this cream for 2 weeks and have already seen a dramatic difference in my skin. I have scarring on my face and large pores and even after just two weeks these seem visibly less noticeable. This cream claims to have the power to transform the look of skin in a short time and I did not think after just 2 weeks I would be able to review this product. Looking at all the positive reviews online, I see this cream works incredibly well for ladies with eczema, dry skin conditions or if you suffer from breakouts as it has its healing benefits. My skin seems plumper and redness is reduced. I chose only to use it on an evening as I already have oily skin and it is very rich, I feel the soft cream may be more suited to my skin type as it contains all the same powerful ingredients but is lighter. There is a specific way to use this cream, a little goes a long way and although expensive it will last you months. You must warm the cream for a few seconds between the fingers until it becomes translucent, then press gently into the skin. This product is available to buy online HERE

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CLINIQUE CHUBBY STICK SCULPTING HEFTY HIGHLIGHT

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*Another glory Clinique product of mine. This cream chubby highlighter stick is perfect to enhance your favorite features. Its oil free so great for my oily skin. As you can see from the pictures I have applied it to my cheeks giving a gorgeous subtle sheen. Less is more with highlighters, be sure not to go OTT! This product is also great for highlighting your brow bone by sweeping your finger across the stick and applying that way. The delivery of the product is perfect, no need to sharpen, just twist and go!

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CLINIQUE BEYOND PERFECTING FOUNDATION + CONCEALER

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*If you thought Clinique was just skincare think again. Clinique do some amazing cosmetics and this foundation is my new best friend. After using ”Estee Lauder double wear” for years, I wanted to try something different. Usually I would only wear a heavy coverage foundation on an evening but this feels so light on the skin which is surprising as the foundation covers amazingly well. It also suits my oily complexion and does not melt off or go shiny. A little goes a long way and is used as a concealer too. My only complaint would be the bottle, I hope the wand is bendy enough to scoop out any last foundation when i’m running out, however only time will tell. This foundation is available online here or Tried and Tested FB members pop into House of Fraser Intu Metro Centre get matched up and try a sample before you buy.

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