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Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask & Reincarnation Pure Facial Exfoliator
16.6.14
Antipodes
is an organic, all-natural brand from New Zealand that has intrigued me for a
while. Their Aura Manuka Honey Mask is a favourite amongst bloggers. When I came
across Plume, a Belgian webshop that stocks Antipodes products, I just had to
place an order and see for myself. I also got the Reincarnation Pure Facial
Exfoliator. Together they make an excellent combination in my skincare routine.
The Aura
Manuka Honey Mask is a multi-purpose face mask that purifies and hydrates skin.
As the name suggests, this mask contains manuka honey. This natural ingredient is full of
antibacterial qualities. New Zealanders have been using it for years. The
honey soothes blemishes and cleanses, while avocado oil, vitamin E and grape
extract are effective at moisturizing the skin. I always apply the mask with a flat
foundation brush and try to achieve a thick, even layer. The product has a
creamy colour, but dries transparent. It smells like vanilla pod and mandarin,
although I haven’t personally noticed the mandarin. Nonetheless, the fragrance
is sweet and so relaxing. After using the Aura Manuka Honey Mask, my skin
feels more plump, calm and intensely hydrated. I definitely feel a difference.
I think it is great for a pamper evening or as a treatment before a special
occasion. Keep in mind that this mask won’t give noticeable long-term results, but it lives up to the hype for having your own ‘spa moment’ at home.
As much as
I was looking forward to trying the Aura Manuka Honey Mask, it’s this gem that
stole my heart. Plume kindly gifted me the Reincarnation Pure Facial Exfoliator
after there were some problems with the delivery. I was a bit wary about
mechanical scrubs before as they’re usually too harsh on my skin, but the Reincarnation
exfoliant is very gentle. It contains small jojoba beads and doesn’t feel
scratchy at all. Antipodes added essential oils like carrot seed extract and
calendula oil to soothe and heal skin. This scrub is full of ingredients that
will make skin look fresh and revitalized. Its fruity aroma is exactly why I
prefer using this in the morning – well, that and because it wakes me up. I
massage the product into my skin for a few minutes, add a few drops of water in
the process, then I carefully remove the residue with (luke)warm water and a muslin cloth. The
result is clear and nourished looking skin. Using this at least once a week has also reduced redness of acne scars on my chin (thumbs up for that!). I always follow with toner and
moisturizer or I use it before the Aura Manuka Honey Mask. After two months the Reincarnation
exfoliator is now my favourite step in my skincare routine, which is quite the
statement because I used to stay far away from facial scrubs.
These two goodies are great when used on their own, but combined they work wonders on my complexion. I am
so glad my first experience with Antipodes products has been such a good one. I can
see myself repurchasing both the Aura Manuka Honey Mask and the Reincarnation Pure Facial Exfoliator, and even trying more from their skincare
range. Thanks again to Plume for the excellent customer service. I would highly recommend them if you're looking to try Antipodes or other natural skincare brands.
