Skincycles™ by Alice Sample Review Recovery Mask / DNA Defence Sun Shield

 

I was sent these samples a while back however, wanted to test in the Summer as the products themselves are full of ingredients to help protect and repair the skin when the weather has been hot, and the skin exposed to the sun.

I’m a huge advocate for skin cancer awareness, having written several features both for the press and for various brands, and so I’m passionate about raising awareness of products with a high SPF. 

Skincycles™  products themselves are the brainchild of leading dermatologist Alice Henshaw, who also founded Harley Street Injectables. The idea of the brand was to give clients the option of using clinic based products at home. 

DNA Defence Sun Shield 50ml RRP £50

The DNA Defence Sun Shield has an incredible SPF100+.  This means that your skin is protected against the sun 100 times more than it would be without any sun screen.  It is the ultimate product to protect your skin from sun damage, burning, pigmentation etc. Not only does it protect the skin from UVA/UVB rays but it hosts an abundance of ingredients to aid in skin health.

Some of the ingredients include:-

• Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride - an ingredient that is derived from coconut oil and helps smooth the skin as well as keeping it nourished. 
• Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Zinc Oxide - all of these protect the skin from UVA/UVB damage.
• Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract - this powerful antioxidant also acts as an anti-inflammatory and so helps combat acne, inflammation, eczema and reduces redness.
• Ferulic Acid - an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from pollution, sun damaged and other environmental aggressors.
• Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract - helps reduce skin irritation, redness and is also antibacterial, so ideal for those suffer with oily skin.

You only need a small amount (I’ve applied too much for the photo here). As you can see it looks tinted however, it isn’t. It quickly spreads over the skin and so you only do need a small amount.

You actually cannot see any shine or product on the skin once spread as it’s a matt formula. This makes it ideal for oilier skin types or those with combination skin. It’s non pore blocking and unlike many other sunscreens on the market leaves the skin primed for makeup (if you wear foundation). It’s ideal to help prevent aging and, as mentioned above pigmentation. 

Recovery Mask 50ml RRP £120

This is an expensive mask however, if you have spent time in the sun and have those light dehydration lines, then this is the product to help eradicate those lines before they turn into anti-aging lines. The fact is, the sun is our biggest skin ager, above smoking and other negative lifestyle choices. The fact also is, that anti-aging injectables cannot be used on the neck and décolletage and along the cheekbones. Yes, there are many other aesthetic procedures such as fillers, Profhilo etc however, most of us don’t have the money and don’t particularly want to go down that route. 

The Recovery Mask is just as it says, it helps in aiding the skin’s recovery from environmental damage such as sitting out in the sun. Ingredients include:-

• Allentoin - helps reduce skin redness and irritation. Ideal for sensitive skin types. 
• Alpha Bisabolol - derived from chamomile, this helps soothe irritated skin. Again it’s ideal for those with sensitive skin types, and especially if you suffer with itchy, tight skin and suffering with menopausal/pregnancy hormone changes. 
• Biophytex™ is often used in skincare as it contains Panthenol that helps with boosting skin hydration. 
• Pentavitin® - helps combat the signs of dehydration and fine lines, it gives radiance to the skin and helps reduce flaky, dry skin types.
• Hyaluronic Acid - helps diminish the look of fine lines, aids in skin healing and gives skin elasticity so it appears more youthful.

The Recovery Mask is incredibly light and a little goes a long way. Applying with the brush provided  gives a salon, luxurious feel however, makes sure the product is spread evenly. You can leave on for 15 minutes or for a more intense treatment leave on overnight. 

Both these products are absolute must-haves if you want to protect your skin in the hot, summer months. Especially if you are travelling abroad and will be exposing your skin to the sun. 

The products are not tested on animals, sustainably sourced and do deliver results. You can check out the rest of the range HERE