…annnd go!

Vichy Liftactiv Advanced Filler double correction moisturizer, R469.

Vichy’s new anti-aging moisturiser promises to tackle wrinkles while ‘refreshing’ and ‘reviving’ your expression. Aside from Vichy’s standard soothing spa water, it’s key ingredients include a mix of hydrators like glycerin, sodium hyaluronate and soybean oil as well a wrinkle-busting retinol and LR2412.

As we all know, I’m retinol’s biggest stalker fan, so I was excited to see this in the ingredients list. Alas, it sits a little low, so I’d still suggest you team this with a good retinol serum for best results. This is good news, however, is this could work out well for those with sensitive skin and be the kind of thing you  using as a way to build your skin’s retinol tolerance. As far as LR2412, this is listed as sodiumtetrahydrojasmonate. (Mouthful, ne?) Essentially, it’s a lipid derived from jasmine that, Vichy reckon, will help to propel their other active ingredients deeper into your skin.

While I haven’t used Liftactiv long enough to see results and use too many other serums to be a fair judge, I can tell you this. As far as texture goes, this is lovely stuff. I like that it’s nice and light yet hydrates well – ideal for oily-combo girls like me – and contains just enough mica to give my skin an immediate radiant-looking glow without enhancing more pores.

The fact that it doesn’t contain sunscreen is a bit of a downer, but you can get around this by layering a super sheer one on top or wearing an SPF-infused foundation or powder. (Shisiedo’s UV Protective compact foundation is amazing, by the way. You’ll find my review over here.)

L’Oreal Infallible 24H Stay Fresh foundation, R209,95.

L’Oreal’s best-selling Infallible foundation has had a l’il revamp once more and is now called Infallible 24H Stay Fresh foundation. The promises? A whole lotta no’s. As in no transfer, no visible imperfections, no visible shine, no drying out and no mask effect.

For the most part, this foundation lives up to its claims. I like that it gives good medium level matte-finish coverage that doesn’t aggravate my oily T-panel and still manages to look ‘fresh’ at the end of the day. While the shades are quite similar looking, they’re mostly yellow-based and this suits me to tee. In fact, yellow-based foundations are flattering for most complexions and something I’d opt for even if I had a slightly pink undertone to my skin. If anything, yellow would neutralize it. (Swatches coming shortly. I left my camera at home today.)

The only gripe I have – which isn’t really negative if you read on – is that the ‘no visible imperfections’ thing didn’t ring true for me. I have a monster spot on my chin today and am carrying a little baggage under my eyes and both required blitzing with my beloved Catrice Camouflage Cream concealer. But like I said, this is a good thing ‘cos, ideally, you don’t want to run around in heavy, mask-like foundation. First prize is to rock the minimum level of coverage you can get away with and then spot treat the bits that require extra help with a concealer.

Want to give it a bash yourself? I’d move fast and snap it up at Clicks – they’ve currently got it on special for R209,95 with the offer expiring on the 9^th of July. After that, I have no clue as to what price point it’ll jump to.

Love, love

Leigh