Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing Brush (Final Review)

I was super lucky to be challenged by the lovely team at Magnitone London to use the BareFaced Cleansing Brush for 30 days straight and share my experience. I was delighted to take part in this challenge because Magnitone brushes have been on my radar for a super long time and I was pleased to be kindly gifted with the Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing Brush in Aqua*. If you would like to know more about my initial thoughts when I first received the brush, hop on over here to this post. I thought it would be useful to share my full experience after using the brush for almost two months.

What does the Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing Brush do?

The Magnitone Barefaced Brush is he Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing brush uses their trademarked Vibra Sonic technology to deliver results. The Vibra Sonic technology is essentially a combination of sonic oscillations and electromagnetic vibrations which is equal to a skin workout (for the face). It works by cleansing deep into the skin via the pores to remove impurities that may have accumulated on the skin. It promises to boost circulation and provide healthy skin benefits consistently. You can read my previous review for more details about the history of the brand and the technology they use.

How did I use the Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing Brush?

I used the Magnitone BareFaced Brush for approximately 7 weeks (6 weeks non-stop and a gap when I travelled and then one week). I used it every morning and night with a choice of cleansers because I wanted to see how it works with different cleanses. I am happy to report that it works amazing with all cleansers regardless of their formula. I used it with my La Roche Posay Effaclar Cleansing Gel*, Trilogy Rosehip Cleansing Gel*, Ole Henriksen African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser, Dudu Osun Soap, etc. Each time it delivered super clean results but I think I enjoyed using it best with cleansing gels. It just glided across my face super easily compared to when I used it with a foaming cleanser. My routine is as follows: I wet or dampen my face, massage my cleansers across my face with my fingers, wet the brush under the tap, then I ensure I tap off any excess water from the brush (to prevent any splattering) and use it across my face. Some people apply the cleanser to the brush btu I prefer to apply to my face instead.

Did I experience any breakouts?

I think one of the reasons people avoid using cleansing brushes or devices is because they are scared of experiencing breakouts and with good reason. I have used other cleansing devices without any breakouts and I did not experience any as a result of using the Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing Brush. I know some people experience the purging phase but I did not experience that as well because I was already using other devices prior to using the Magnitone. I think it all depends on your skin type but I don’t think it should deter you from using the brush unless they are very serious. I did experience some mild breakouts in my 3^rd to 4^th week but it was hormonal and also due to me consuming cheese and I know this because they disappeared when the period arrived and I ditched the cheese.

What was my experience?

I have to say I was super impressed with using the Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing Brush and I still use it even after the challenge. It gives my skin a deep cleanse which I love especially in the evenings after a day out or after work. I wear makeup quite a few times in a week so knowing every single bit would be removed with using my Magnitone brush made me really delighted. I always use a makeup remover first for a first cleanse then dive in with a cleanser and my Magnitone Cleansing Brush for my second cleanser. A double cleanse is a must for good skin especially if you are out and about or you wear makeup.  I think people avoid wearing makeup because it is sometimes difficult to remove it but I find that using a cleansing brush such as the Magnitone one makes it a breeze.

What were my results?

My skin felt super clean, soft and smooth and that means a lot to me because I have previously suffered from acne and my skin looked pretty rough. I also have to mention that I went makeup free quite a few times during the challenge and I know the results I got (in addition to other skincare products I am trialling) were responsible for my new found confidence. I would highly recommend the Magnitone Brush to anyone who wants super clean, soft and smooth skin. I also found that my skincare products appeared to work better because my pores were clean and hence they could penetrate and work better. You can purchase the Magnitone Brush from various retailers including the Magnitone London website . It retails for £70.

What did I love best about the brush?

Apart from all the reasons stated above, I loved the fact that I actually have not had to charge my Magnitone Brush since the first charge. I have used it for 7 weeks and I only had to charge it the first day I received it. I am really impressed by this feature because I thought I would need to charge it a whole lot more frequently than this. So, if you were concerned about having to charge it, be rest assured that the battery life really lasts a good while provided you charge it to the fullest the first time you get it. Incidentally, this morning while using it, I noticed the red light which indicates that it may need a charge pretty soon. I am guessing the battery life can last for as long as 8 weeks if you use it day and night. I am also assuming it will last longer if you use it once a day or a few times a week. I am very, very impressed by this feature.

What didn't I like or work well for me?

The only thing I did not like about the Magnitone BareFaced Brush is the design of the charger. I know this is quite a petty thing to dislike but I will explain why. The charger has a magnetic head which slips on to the handle of the brush to get charged. I would have preferred if it had a regular USB slot (on both ends) for charging. I feel like it could easily shift and it would no longer charge . Also, if you ever forget the charger, I can imagine it will be difficult to find a good alternative as a result of the design. You can see it is a petty thing to dislike but those are just my thoughts. When I charged it, it felt quite secure as the magnetic attachment is a strong one so I guess the chances of it moving while charging is very minimal

Would I keep using the Magnitone Brush?

Absolutely!! I have totally incorporated it into my routine and I don’t see myself not using it. As I also have other beauty devices, I think I would use it mainly in the evenings. I love the fact that it gives my skin a really deep cleanse and I enjoy using it so much. It’s a real gem and I am so grateful I had a chance to try it out.

Would I recommend?

A big fat YES!! I would totally recommend it to anyone who wants visible results in the texture and appearance of their skin. It does not matter whether you wear makeup or not because you will enjoy the beautiful cleanse it provides. If you have sensitive skin, there is an option of buying the sensitive brush head which I believe is gentler. The one I have is the regular one and it does not feel abrasive or rough on my skin.  I would not say it is super soft but I like it that way because it works well for my combination-oily skin. Also, you need to be aware that the brush heads need to be changed every 3 months so it is an added expense. However, you do get a £5 voucher with your first purchase which is very handy. They also run competitions every month where a winner is chosen to receive a year's worth of brush head supply. You can find out more about this competition here. 

Overall Thoughts

What can I say? I have absolutely enjoyed using it and I did indeed see very visible results even from the 1st day of using it. I am glad I did not have to wait a long time to see results. The early results I got enabled me use it consistently during the challenge period and even beyond.  I was not the only one who noticed results on my skin as friends and family noticed as well and seriously, that made me very happy. I am totally loving the texture of my skin and skin seems to have an innate glow. I still use it because it’s now become a staple in my skincare routine and I am still seeing good results. That’s pretty much my update and I hope you enjoyed this post. Have you tried the Magnitone BareFaced Cleansing Brush?
*PR Sample + Affiliate Links used, read my full disclaimer here

Jewellery Box Review

I am a huge fan of dainty jewellery but I think I am also drawn to unique pieces. Jewellery Box were so kind to send me a selection of jewellery from their collection to try and I was seriously over the moon because they are great quality. I know this because I have had them for almost 3 months now and I have no complaints whatsoever. I decided not to choose pieces myself because I wanted to be surprised and they did not disappoint at all because I love all the pieces they sent me. I usually never opt for Sterling Silver jewellery but I am so glad they sent them to me because I have enjoyed them. I used to think Sterling Silver will not suit my complexion me but I was wrong as the pieces are quite flattering on me (if I do say so myself)

Brief Overview of Jewellery Box 

They are an online jewellery retailer who have designed over 8000 unique pieces of jewellery in various styles. They are based in South London and they specialise in 9 Carat Gold Jewellery and Sterling Silver Jewellery. You can find earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces, etc all on their site and they cater to over 10,000 orders a week across 100 countries worldwide. I think that’s really impressive especially as they were only founded in June 2014. They also offer free P&P on all orders over £10 which I think is super commendable. You can follow their social media pages to be updated on all their offers: Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter. You can also learn more about the brand here.

Packaging

I do have to say they have the daintiest Pinterest-worthy packaging ever and I really like how authentic they looked. Each piece has its own individual brown packaging complete with a string. Seriously, it was one of the cutest things I had seen all week. To top it off, there were tiny pegs inside the boxes which I kept because I am a hoarder of all cute things. I actually kept all the boxes so I can store the jewellery in there to prevent them from getting missing since they are really dainty. I am really impressed with their packaging and attention to detail.

What pieces did I receive?

I already mentioned that I did not select these pieces so I was pleasantly surprised to find that they were pieces I would definitely have chosen myself. I was so impressed with  the dainty packaging and I resisted the urge to open them until I was ready with my camera so these pictures are proper unboxing pictures. I received the following pieces- Sterling Silver Androlak Stud Earrings*, Sterling Silver Arrow Pull through Earrings*, Sterling Silver 3-Strand Knot Stud Earrings* and Sterling Silver Plain Hoop Earrings*.

Sterling Silver Androlak Stud Earrings //Link // £6.95
I don't think I have ever tried any earrings like these ones but I think it's such an interesting concept. They are super tiny and it was a struggle getting a nice shot. I think it is best suited for second earring holes which are located in other parts of the ears (as seen in the picture above). As the name suggests it is made from Sterling Silver but it also has some emerald crystal detailing on it which adds some character to it. I have not been wearing any earrings on my second ear holes so they were closing up which was why I felt a slight pain when I initially tried these earrings. However, it was for a minute and now, I can hardly feel them on my ears. The part that gets inserted in your ear hole is slightly pointed but it does not cause any harm to the ears at all. The unique thing about is you don't need any earring stopper because you just simply fold it and it is secure. I really like the concept of this pair of earrings. It also comes in other colours apart from Emerald including Garnet, Amethyst, Rose, etc.

Sterling Silver Arrow Pull through Earrings// Link //£3.84
This was by my far the most playful because I rarely wear earrings like this but I love it. It is super easy to wear and I did not feel any irritation at all. I love the little chain and arrow detailing in its design as it stands out from the rest. I have enjoyed using it on those days. It is also a very light pair of earrings and I could hardly feel they were on my ears. I love to wear this on casual days out or during the weekend and I think this pair will be perfect for Summer parties and barbecues. 

Sterling Silver 3-Strand Knot Stud Earrings //Link //£14.00
This has to be my favourite piece from what I was sent and possibly my most worn piece. It goes well with majority of my outfits and looks super classy. It is made from sterling silver as the name suggests and I have not had any problems with it at all. It sits really well on my ear lobes which I am always particular about. It's perfect for everyday wear, school, work and can even be dressed up. It has not tarnished at all and still looks as new as it was on the first day I got it. The 3-strand detailing makes it stand out from the regular studs I have in my collection. I believe there are other sizes for this particular pair but I love this size (8mm).

Sterling Silver Plain Hoop Earrings* //Link // £12.00
I smiled when I opened this piece because it took me right back to when I was younger and more carefree. I loved wearing Hoops and I think they were the rave back then. They just instantly transform any outfit and add a super casual edginess as well. I love that this one is a proper classic Hoop and I love how I look with it. I actually think they look best with braids (my current hairstyle) so I will be wearing it a lot this summer. I also have to mention they are super light and don't weigh down my ears. I don't even notice they are there and I love the size as it's not to big or too small. It's just perfect and if you are wondering, the size is 70 mm.

Cost and Delivery

One thing that got me really impressed with the Jewellery Box is how affordable their pieces are. When it comes to jewellery, it is easy to assume that the lower the cost the lower the quality is. In some cases it may be true but in this case, I find that you get so much value for what you pay. I already mentioned that I have had these pieces for almost three months and I can't say I have taken extra care of them than normal yet they have not come to any damage. They have been worn in various weather conditions but they have maintained their original qualities as when I first received them. I am not surprised at all as they are made from good quality Sterling Silver. I also did not experience any irritation which may occur 

Overall Thoughts

I really like them and I wear at least one pieces once a week. I am currently enjoying having the Hoops back in my life because it was one of my favourite piece of jewellery when I was much younger. I just love how it transforms my look. However, my favourite has to be the 3-Strand Stud because it is totally me. I wear it everywhere because it just seems to go with all my outfits. That's pretty much my review. A massive thank you to the lovely folks at Jewellery Box for sending me these pieces. Have you tried any pieces from the Jewellery Box?
*PR Sample, read my full disclaimer here

Chit Chat and Life Update #5

I have been the worst blogger ever!! I took off without a word  but I honestly needed the break before I had a breakdown. I thought I might as well just give a little update of what I have been up to.  P.S. Most of the pictures have nothing to do with this post but I love pictures so I always include them in blog posts..hehehe

Education Update

I mentioned in this post that I was starting a pharmacy conversion course. I have been a pharmacist for the past 8 years but my qualification is an international one which requires me to complete an academic year of study. It is the same for many countries and other professions like Medicine and Law. I opted for University of Brighton because it was the best choice for my lifestyle and work. I started in September and I finished in June and believe me, it was one of the toughest years ever. I was still working full time but compressed hours so it was a little bit crazy but I thank God for seeing me through. I am awaiting my final two exam results but I am positive I will scale through.

Career Update

Now that I am done with my course, I will be moving into Hospital Pharmacy in August 2016 and I am super excited. Hospital Pharmacy is my favourite part of pharmacy and that’s the section where I have worked for the most part of my pharmacy career even back in Nigeria. It just genuinely makes me happy to make a difference in someone’s life and although it can be tough, I absolutely enjoyed it and I know I will continue enjoying it. The shift means I will be leaving my current job at the end of July and I don’t know how I will make it through on that last day with a dry eye. My current organisation is one of the best I have ever worked in and my team and manager are just incredibly loving and supportive. I have grown the most and developed skills and a rare confidence that I thought I could only achieve in my dreams. So, I have mixed feelings; I am happy to go back to hospital pharmacy but super sad to leave my organisation and team mates. It’s always a tough call but I know it’s for the best.

Blogging Update

From the end of May, I had to take a little break so I could study for my final exams and when I was done, I went on holiday. I missed my blog and reading all the lovely comments from you lot. I was not even active on social media as such but in a way, it was amazing. I feel much energised to get back to blogging on a proper schedule. I have backlogs of blog posts, photos and products to talk about. So, do bear with me for a couple of days while I sort out my schedule and create new content in a more consistent way. I shot two videos before I left for my holidays but I have not got around to editing them yet but they will be up soon.

Holiday in Nigeria

I already mentioned that I whisked myself away for a much needed holiday and R&R back in Nigeria (my country). The last time was exactly two years ago (May 2014) since I was back home so I was sorely missing home. I had such a beautiful time seeing my family and friends and just enjoying my country. It was a short visit so I am still feeling slightly homesick as you do when you come back from such an amazing time. I did not really take photos or even blog because I just wanted a proper break so I am so sorry there are no photos per say. Well, I took a few photos with my DSLR camera but I am not sure if I want to share them on here as they are family photos. However, I do have some iPhone photos of my cornrows and braids which I cannot get enough of. I wish there were not so expensive to make here in London as I would totally stick to them. They were super affordable in Nigeria  so I made my hair twice in two weeks. Woop Woop!!

Events and Product Reviews

While I was away, I received tons of emails to attend events and products to try out so you can imagine that there will be quite a few posts on them soon. I think June/July and the end of the year have so many events and launches lined up and I am super excited to attend. I have also been trying out some products which have been absolute gems in the past months and I will be talking about them.  That’s pretty much my update and I hope it was not too boring. I just wanted to have a little chat and let you know what I have been up to. See you in my next post…xx

Father's Day Gift Guide and Ideas

Father's Day is a pretty special day for me because I am a Daddy's girl through and through. I love him so much and his love makes (made) me feel super special. Unlike Mother's Day, there appears to be only one Father's Day worldwide which is on the 19th June for this year. I have put together a little gift guide which I know many Dads would love and it's affordable as well. I rarely feature products for men over here so I am quite delighted to be featuring them today. I feel this gift guide can also serve as a gift guide for men in general (birthdays, anniversaries, etc) and not just Fathers or Father's day.

I believe fragrances are the usual default gift for when people don't know what to get Dads because most Dads love fragrances. I think Men's fragrances are amazing and I used a lot of my Dad's fragrances when I was younger. I still feel very nostalgic whenever I catch a whiff of some of his favourite fragrances. 

Burberry Touch for Men// Link //from £55 (but check Debenhams or TK Maxx for discounts)

I have had a long standing relationship with Burberry fragrances as I always pick them up at the airport. As expected with anything from Burberry, they are amazing and last a pretty long time. I found this lovely Burberry Fragrance in Debenhams for under £30 and I could not believe my luck. It was on offer and I believe they bring the offer back every now and then so keep your eyes peeled either in-store or online. I bought mine in my local Debenhams store and I may have screamed for joy. I saw it almost a month before and told myself I will be back to pick it up and it went back to full price. You guys, I was super patient and almost a month later it was back and I snapped it up. You can also find it in TK Maxx I think for a similar price.

Yardley 1770 Fragrance*//Link //£19.99 (currently £9.99 here)

I already spoke about this fragrance here (review) and I could not help talking about it again because it really deserves it. It is indeed such a handsome fragrance and you would hardly believe the price. It smells really good and lasts a good while as well. I got the Man to try it out (of course) and he loves it so I know it must be good. I love the packaging down to the lovely leather detail on the cap which adds so much character to the entire design. If you are like me and you find yourself loving androgynous fragrances, you would love this. It's very hard to find a similar fragrance with a similar price point and quality.

Nivea Post Shave Balm// Link //£5.35

Whenever I am putting together a gift for my Man, I always include the Nivea Post Shave Balm. Maybe it's just me that has noticed but it never goes on offer any more ever since it has become a new makeup primer for us gals/women. I wonder if Nivea will seize the opportunity and create a proper primer for women; I bet it will do so well!! Anyway, many of my male friends use this Nivea Post Shave Balm and like it so I am guessing it's a good one. I have been told it is perfect for soothing the beard area especially after a nice shave. Most importantly, it helps prevent and reduce the appearance of little shaving bumps. What can I say? I haven't used it but it is a good one and every man seems to rate it so I am sure Dads would love it as well.

Charles Farris Grand Cascade Candle*// Link //£30

I know candles are usually associated with women or females but the tides are changing now as I know men have candles in their houses/rooms. However, they tend to stick to less feminine scents or neutral ones that still show off their male personality. I know my Dad would not mind having a candle burning in his room while he chills. Candles really set the mood and ambience and most times, they help people relax. I am new to Charles Farris Candles but they are so amazing. The fragrance comes through without even having to open the box. I won't lie to you guys; I was tempted to keep this candle for myself when it arrived at my doorstep. The packaging is so gorgeous and it smells incredible. It's not too masculine; I would describe it more as an androgynous fragrance.  It is infused with a deep smoky aroma of cedar, aged leather, birch which is then offset by fresh moss and amber. It absolutely encapsulates what Dads would love with its rich ingredients. The glass jar is frosted and looks super gorgeous on a table to stand. It is also a hand poured to ensure a slow and even burn. The best part is the beautiful frosted jar can be used to store stationery (or maybe makeup brushes like I plan to do as I know my man will not reuse....hehehe).





Molton Brown Ultra Light Bai Ji Hydrator// Link //£26
I doubt if I can ever do a gift guide without including Molton Brown products. They are indeed the absolute perfect gift for anyone both male and female. I love the fact that they cater to everyone's needs and I have never heard anyone say they don't like anything from Molton Brown. Fun Fact- I discovered and fell in love with Molton Brown through my Dad and he usually gave me tiny samples he got from his travels. I picked out the Molton Brown Ultra Light Ba Ji Hydrator because it is perfect for men. I have tried it out in store (and had a sample) so I can tell you it is gorgeous. It applies smoothly, super hydrating, absorbs well and it is non-greasy. I did not open this one because it was a gift but it comes in a glass bottle with a pump. It's more designed for the face as opposed the body but as always it can be used for any part of the body. It's a really gorgeous gift that many Dads will love and Molton Brown do one of the most amazing gift wrapping I have ever cone across.




Sachajuan Intense Repair Shampoo* and Conditioner*// Link //from £20
I have spoken about Sachjuan in a full review of all their products which you can find here. One thing I love Sachajuan for is that it is unisex and can be used for both male and female. I daresay many men will love it more because its fragrance is quite an androgynous one. I chose the Intense Repair range because it does such an amazing job especially for low maintenance hair care that delivers results. I know many Dads (and men in general) are quite low maintenance when it comes to taking care of their hair and this Sachajuan Intense Repair duo really helps out with achieving it. The packaging is so minimal and looks ever so classy and I feel you can just pop it into a gift bag for Dad (or any special man in your life) and that's you done!!



MR Beard Oil*// Link //£8.33
I don't know about you but I have never come across a beard oil before this MR Beard Oil arrived my door step. Naturally, I was intrigued to hear how it would work (not on me though but the Man was willing to test it out for me). MR is a men's range founded by Jamie Stevens. The MR Beard Oil is designed to be a hydrating oil that moisturises the skin around the beard while softening and taming the beard hair. The Man appears to love it as I spied it in his weekend bag (he only includes products he absolutely loves when he travels). It helps keep the beard hairs from getting too dry (which sometimes makes it itchy). Since he really likes it I know other men would love it as well. It comes in a dinky bottle complete with a pump that dispenses the oil easily. It is non-greasy and gets absorbed really well. It also contains Abyssinian Oil  and a blend of Silicones which really help tame those unruly beard hairs. If Dad has a nice beard or moustache, he would definitely adore this product and it is super affordable as well. Win-Win!!



Face Gym Chairman Workout *// Link //£55
I was lucky to test out the Face Gym Pro* in Harrods a little while ago and I can tell you it was fabulous. I am looking to being booked for a proper facial pretty soon because I absolutely enjoyed it. Now Face Gym is not just for women; it's for everyone and they even have a special for men called the ChairmanWorkout which I believe is exclusive to Selfridges. The Chairman Workout consists of a deep sonic cleanse, cardio, sculpting, beard conditioning and skin hydration (of his choice). I think this is such an amazing treat for Dads and any man. Dads should indeed be pampered just like Mums. I also think for the price (£55), it is such an amazing deal. You can book via the website here , pop into Selfridges and get a gift card or just take Dad (or your special man there).


That's pretty much my Father's Day Gift Guide and I am so happy to have featured such a lovely array of products on here. As mentioned earlier, these gifts can work as birthday gifts, pamper treats or any kind of gift and they are not exclusively for Father's Day. I hope you enjoyed this post and I will see you in my next one. Happy Father's Day to all the lovely fathers out there including anyone who stood in as a Father for you. ..xx
*Gifted PR Samples + Affiliate Links, read my full disclaimer here