The Best of Murad

Do you remember this post when I bought two Murad skincare sets? Well, four months later, I present to you the gems of the haul and why they deserve a place in your skincare stash. To be fair, the opportunity hasn't been there to test out the Environmental Shield broad spectrum SPF and the foaming cleanser from the Pore Perfection kit was nothing special. I believe that the Vitalic products from the Pore Perfecting range are being rebranded as Pore Reform as I can't find them anywhere. I will keep an eye out for them as these picks have wormed their way into my skincare routine since the beginning of 2014.

Murad Essential-C Cleanser

Ok, this isn't really a surprise as I've sung the praises of this cleanser before. But for me, this has actually limited any oiliness and sun damage on my face during the hot summer months. I got this free with a magazine a few years ago and I've repurchased it every summer since. The Vitamin C is bound in a special complex so it doesn't become inactive as quickly as other vitamin C products. It helps to brighten the skin and protects it from any environmental damage.

Murad Energising Pomegranate Moisturiser (since rebranded as Pore Reform Balancing Moisturiser)

I was really not expecting to like this as it is suited for normal/combination skins, but this has worked wonders for me and it's a shame that it's so hard to find now! This oil free formulation is full of antioxidants and active ingredients to brighten and hydrate the skin. It also doubles as a broad spectrum SPF so it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Murad Advanced Active Radiance Serum

Again based on a stable complex of Vitamin C, this contains AHA's that refine and tighten the skin's surface. Although I'm quite young for skin tightening, I know that dehydrated skin is more prone to wrinkles over time. With the added benefits of aiding cell regeneration and reducing environmental damage, this serum is a great start to exploring the world of anti-ageing skincare.

Murad Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask

My main complaint is that there were only 2 sachets available in the the set - again, I cannot see this stocked anywhere. This gel mask uses chemical exfoliants to remove dead skin cells and leave behind plump, glowing skin. I did feel a tingling sensation with this, so it may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin. I will say that this mask tends to bring any impurities to the surface, and left my face feeling polished and glowing.

Needless to say, this was great value for money as I only parted with £14! I'll keep you posted on any more skincare gems that I find.

Organix Awapuhi Ginger Shampoo Review

For anyone who has read my high praise for Ojon Damage Reverse hair products and balked at the high price, I've managed to find an alternative that is kinder to your hair and your purse strings! The Organix Awapuhi Ginger range is free of parabens and sulphates, and is currently on a 2 for £10 offer at Waitrose. Normally the shampoo retails at £6.99 for 385ml, which is better value for money than spending around £20 for 250ml of product.  

Awapuhi Ginger extract and keratin protein acts to revive and strengthen the hair, according to the blurb on the front of the packaging. Yet, other natural inclusions like cocoa seed butter, avocado oil and aloe leaf juice also help to tame the frizz and came as a welcome surprise when reading the ingredients list.  

Over the last few months, I've been using this in various combinations and it works so beautifully with the Philip Kingsley Elasticizer as a pre-wash treatment that I could skip conditioner if I'm really pushed for time. This formula is really nourishing to my thick hair with minimal tangles left behind when drying. Unlike other sulphate free shampoos I've tried, this one really foams. After 2 months, I have noticed a lot less breakage and my hair is much healthier with a noticeable shine. If you have dry, coarse hair like me this has to be on your 'to try' list.

I'm considering the idea of doing a wash day diary once a month, so you can see what products I use on a regular basis more quickly (I'd been using this shampoo since Christmas and it's only made an appearance now). In fairness, once I find something that works well it rarely changes, but I thought it would be nice to take you with me on my hair journey. Let me know what you think.

Candice x