Almost every blogger I know has raved about Pixi Beauty at some point – this UK brand is very well loved. If you’re remotely interested in skin care, you would have heard of the cult favourite Glow Tonic, which has a seriously loyal fan following. When I received some of their ‘skintreats’ to try, I was delighted but tried to go into the testing stage without high expectations – the direct result of too much hype… so are they worth the hype? Will I become loyal to Pixi too?
Let’s start with fan favourite Glow Tonic*. It’s an acid toner that contains 5% glycolic acid, aloe vera and ginseng. The amber coloured potion is said to provide exfoliation, remove dead skin cells and impurities, while accelerating cell renewal for a brighter, smoother, glowing complexion. It all sounded fab, but a previous experience with glycolic acid made me extremely nervous to try it out.
For those of you asking, what the hell EVEN is glycolic acid? Kinda glad you asked. I’m no skincare expert, but I’ve learned that it is naturally derived from sugar cane and falls into the AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) family. It safely removes the outer layer of dead skin cells, hence its ability to bring newer, brighter skin to the surface. It can help with discolouration, and the gentle exfoliation can also help those who suffer from acne and blackheads. My very first glycolic acid was another cult-fave – Alpha H Liquid Gold. Our relationship started off well, but in recent months when I’d use it once a week, I would wake up to really sore red spots on my face. Needless to say I discontinued its use… so how did Glow Tonic fare?
I’ve been using it after cleansing my face with a cotton pad. The first few times I just used it alone for a more intense treatment – no moisturiser afterwards. I’m most happy to report that I did not wake up to red, angry spots. Instead, I woke up to a brighter, clearer, more even complexion. My pores looked smaller and my texture diminished. Yessssss, I thought – this shit works. It has no alcohol, so it doesn’t dry up the skin. I’ve incorporated it into my routine 2 times a week at first, and now I’ve upped the use to 3-4 times (always in the PM) and I apply moisturiser after using it. It’s important to note that glycolic can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to use sunscreen religiously to avoid irritation. Oh and just quickly – this has a strong rose fragrance, but it does not linger once applied on the skin – just so you know.
The verdict: I am happy I’ve tried this skin saviour and it continues to impress me after every use. I’m most happy about the difference it’s made to my texture, skin tone and pores. It’s also helped with my dry patches. The hype is real y’all.
Next up are the Glow Tonic To-Go Exfoliating Toner Pads*. Essentially, these are pre-soaked pads that are perfect for travelling, or for when you’ve forgotten to buy cotton pads (guilty, hehe). One side is textured, and the other side is smooth. One pad is more than sufficient to tone the entire face, and with 60 in one tub it should last you a while. These are nicely soaked – they’re not super wet, and most definitely not dry, just right. Oh and the rose scent is not as strong on the pads.
The verdict: Another thumbs up from me!
If the past few months are anything to go by, the next big thing in the skincare world are clay mud cleansers. Pixi’s Glow Mud Cleanser* is my introduction into this new cleansing genre, which offers chemical exfoliation in the form of glycolic acid. It’s said to detoxify pores and draw out impurities, and is suitable for all skin types. It has a soft, calming smell to it – reminds me of cinnamon and it has a creamy consistency that doesn’t lather up. It’s easy to spread onto the skin, and I like to leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
The verdict? I really like it, but I don’t love it. My skin feels softer and nourished (not tight or dry at all!) after using it, but it doesn’t do the best job at removing all traces of makeup – after cleansing and toning, I still have a fair bit of dirt on the cotton pad. It might be better to: A) remove all makeup before cleansing (I’m lazy and would rather a one-step product though I know you can’t use this around your eyes anyway) or B) using it as an AM cleanser. I will continue testing it out and if I change my mind I will update you guys!
Last but certainly not least, is a lovely enzyme peel encased in a gorgeous dusty pink bottle that’s oh-so Instagrammable – Peel & Polish*. I’d been seeing rave reviews from other bloggers I follow, so I was very happy to receive a generous box with not one, but three tubes of this stuff at my doorstep (Pixi sent extras to share the goodness with friends – sooo nice but I’m not sharing – thank you). This ‘salon peel at home’ treatment contains natural fruit enzymes that work to exfoliate and resurface the skin, as well as lactic acid, to reveal a radiant and healthy complexion. It has a fine grainy texture due to the sugar cane extract that acts as a skin polish. You’re supposed to apply a thin layer and leave it on for up to 2 minutes. For an extra kick, you can massage in circular motions for 30 seconds. It has a very faint sweet scent, nothing offensive.
The verdict? LOVE. I don’t know that I’ll willingly give away the two extra tubes, sorry (not sorry). I like that you can feel a bit of a tingle, a good way of knowing those enzymes are getting to work. My skin felt smooth. So smooth. And I could actually tell it was a lot brighter; dry patches vanished, and it didn’t leave a tight feeling. My skincare melted into my skin so easily, too! This is becoming a regular in my weekly routine.
What a great introduction I’ve had to Pixi Beauty Skintreats! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed testing and incorporating these into my routine, and can’t wait to try more from the brand.
Have you tried Pixi Beauty? What did you think?
Let’s chat in the comments! x
*Products were gifted to me by Pixi Beauty, which I am so grateful for. This does not change or influence my opinion in any way.