Birthmark Removal

In my last post I revealed I was starting a new series called 'The quest for perfect'. This is probably the post I have been most excited about. From a young child I was insecure about my birthmark. Although no bigger than an inch in size I would never leave the house in a skirt or dress as it was on my leg. My insecurities would make me feel trapped, I never realised how controlled by my birthmark I was - crazy as it sounds I was just to embarrassed by it. I am fully aware that there are millions of cases that are more outstanding than myself but because it stemmed from when I was so young it had a profounding effect on me.

I had tried make up to cover the leg, as the birthmark wasn't large in size at all I thought the success rate would be high. As I am incredibly pale (the perks of being English lol) make up would just be visible and appear quite orange. After constant researching I discovered Sk:n Clinics. They specialise in many non surgical treatments including laser treatments. I booked a consultation to see what was treatment was available to me and to be honest I was terrified! I would spend numerous occasions on their website thinking it through as I wasn't aware of cost implications and if it would actually work, normal doubts that would cross anyone's minds. The reason I went with the Sk:n Clinic is because of it's reviews and great service. Trust me, I would look for reviews all day long just to make me feel less worried.

On the day of the consultation I was nervous, I dragged my mum along with me, I felt like a big baby. Talking with the doctor he actually said that I could have the laser treatment there and then, from that point the excitement kicked in forgetting I was going to have my leg lasered. From my understanding I had what was called a cafe au lait spot which is a light brown mark. The treatment that is offered is the same that is used in tattoo removal.

The pictures below aren't the greatest in quality as some were taken in the clinic - so apologies!

Before



After the laser treatment

The healing process went really well, it took around 2-3 weeks before I could see the skin almost healed. It was tender to the touch and the healing process isn't the nicest as the skin would scab and slowly fall away, it has a very similar feeling to a sunburn sensation.
The first question on everyone's lips is 'Did it hurt?' I will be very honest and say it did. The best way to describe the sensation is by saying it feels like elastic bands hitting the skin in a repetitive motion. You can actually see the laser work its magic so in a sense I was distracted by the excitement. I did move around a little but the consultant was great. Overall the mark has faded quite significantly although you can see a slight hint of what it once was, it's a improvement!

 

After the laser treatment

 

I would advise those considering having the laser treatment done to visit a clinic and ask any questions you have. The Sk:n Clinic had a very calming atmosphere with friendly staff. Remember if its not for you, you don't have to do it! Readers, please remember that everyone is different and costs are individual. Some may need more than one treatment depending on the severity. My laser treatment cost around £400 (this included a consultation, treatment and creams) You can visit their site here. They really looked after me from start to finish!

Have you considered having treatment? Share your stories, I am looking for you guys to get involved!!

Blog soon,

Kerry x

 

Dove Deeply Nourishing Body wash

I don't know if anyone else has ever had a beauty product that they used daily or every so often without even realising its full existence - if that makes sense? I'll elaborate...
There is always a bottle of Dove body wash in my bathroom, its always there and everyone in my family uses it. It wasn't until the other day I was taking a shower and it hit me, wow - I love this stuff.
I have used it for years and yet I have never appreciated it before. As a product fanatic I will jump from one body wash to another, its what I do and its what I enjoy ( I am a beauty blogger after all)

Anyway, I'm here to tell you my love for Dove. The brand its self is a classic, its grown with the time. I have very sensitive dry skin and many body washes I have used in the past just didn't do the trick. So here's a little background: Dove deeply nourishing body wash has NutriumMoisture™ which allows the moisturising elements to actually be absorbed into the skin. Very scientific stuff I know! Not only does it do all that it actually smells amazing, Dove has always has a significant scent. What I love most is how thick and luscious it feels, its like I am using something a lot more pricey than I actually am for example a 250ml bottle is around £1.29. Like I say I have been using Dove on and off for years I've always been left with soft skin, I often use it as a shaving cream alternative because a little goes a long way and it really does stop my skin from feeling like its lacking in moisture.

It's a shame that not many classic products are blogged about these days - I'm always blogging about the new craze but what about the old ones eh!? Is there any classics you've forgotten about? Do share.

Until next time... take care! xx

bareMinerals Night Treatment

You guessed it, here's a review on a product I've been using for 4 weeks. I love the idea of night treatments, you go to sleep and wake up beautiful - well, that's the concept anyway. This particular night treatment is a little different from the rest and that's not a bad thing.
The results you are to expect are...

• Reduction on visible pores
• Increased luminosity 
• A faster cell turnover 

It claims to do all that with help from its exciting new ingredients - 'ActiveSoil Complex' which is described as a group of minerals that renew the skin. Whats really important is what it doesn't contain too, you'll find no Parabens, sulphates or synthetic dyes in this little pot of joy! 

As previously mentioned I've used this for just a little over a month, giving it a good chance to work its magic. Its texture is like that of a powder foundation and the experience of applying it is weird, simply because you feel like you are putting on make up after you've just cleansed from the day. Its not heavy on the skin at all to the point where you forget it is there and that's important when it comes to bed time and wanting to feel relaxed. I've opted for the shade light - and yes just like foundation there are shades to it which for me is fab! Say you are not confident in your skin and you're heading to a sleepover and you're afraid of taking that face wipe to your face, trust me this is a product that really evens out the skin tone, you look naturally beautiful, it even covers up redness and spots. 

The morning results are that of the night before, my skin appeared smoother and less blotchy. It gave a great base to apply foundation to as my skin felt treated. I usually suffer from dry areas but that wasn't an issue either. If you wanted to, you could actually apply this during the day - very versatile I say! If you don't fancy a shade then it all comes in clear, you have options. If you're wondering on the price, I picked it up at Look Fantastic for around £39.00, they often have some great bareMineral deals so do shop around. 

Thats all this time, don't forget to follow me over on Twitter to keep up to date with my rambles

Kerry x