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Life's Mustard Seeds

.....by Katy

Skincare
Makeup
Parenting

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HELLO & WELCOME

I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a note and I’ll get back to you right away…..

More about me

Hi there, I'm Katy. I have a family of 5 who live in a rural Sussex village near the south coast of England. There’s my husband Andy, our 3 sons Jonathan (18) Ewan (13) and Joel (6) and myself. Just to make our lives more busy, we have a black Labrador and two crazy cats. I am a Registered Staff Nurse of over 20 years and am currently working part time as a Covid vaccinator and as an Ear Microsuction expert (glamorous huh!). Read More…

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Latest from Instagram

Instagram post 18039032960495225

Instagram post 18039032960495225

Reviewing @kiehls Ultra Facial Cleanser 🧴 This

Kiehls’ Ultra Facial Cleanser is a gentle, nouri

Kiehls’ Ultra Facial Cleanser is a gentle, nourishing cleanser that leaves skin clean, soft and moisturized.
This soap-free foaming cleanser contains:
🌿Squalane - moisturizes without greasiness
🍑 Apricot kernel oil - provides antioxidant vitamin E and gently exfoliates
🥑 Avocado oil - moisturizes with antioxidant protection
💡Tocopherol (Vitamin E) - protects collagen and prevents UV damage
💎 Ascorbyl glucoside - brightens and provides vitamin C antioxidants
🌱Glycerin - moisturizes and protects skin barrier
It removes impurities without stripping skin of natural moisture. My face feels clean, smooth and comfortable after use. I love how soft and nourished my skin feels!
I’m sharing more details about the amazing ingredients in this cleanser on the blog today - click the link in my bio to check it out! 👆
What’s your favorite gentle cleanser?

Navigating pregnancy skincare: 🤰✨ While the i

Navigating pregnancy skincare: 🤰✨ While the impact of topical retinol lacks comprehensive studies, caution is advised.
It’s not exactly ethical to test the use of retinol during pregnancy so the challenge lies in establishing definitive guidelines. Therefore, Doctors recommend steering clear of both topical and oral retinol during pregnancy.
Your skin’s journey during this precious time deserves gentle care. 💕 #PregnancySkincare #CautionAndCare #MomToBe”

Unveiling the magic of Caudalie Resveratrol Lift F

Unveiling the magic of Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Firming Night Cream! 🌿 Enriched with a patented combination of vine resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, and a vegan collagen booster, this skincare gem isn’t just a cream – it’s a revitalizing elixir for your skin. 💫
Resveratrol, extracted from the seed and skin of red grapes, takes the center stage with its powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic properties. But that’s not all – grape seed oil, a polyphenol-rich extract, joins the skincare orchestra, providing a smooth feel and fortifying your skin with the goodness of linoleic acid and Vitamin E.
Exclusive to Caudalie, the Grapevine Shoot Extract steps into the spotlight, showcasing its antioxidant prowess and skin-brightening abilities, particularly effective against those pesky brown spots. Glycerin, the natural humectant, and squalane, the lightweight moisturizer, add their hydrating touch, while hyaluronic acid, behaving like a skin sponge, locks in moisture like a pro.
And now, the moment of truth – the results! 🌟 This cream, suitable for all skin types and tested under dermatological control, proves its mettle, especially for those noticing a dip in firmness and elasticity. Sinking in seamlessly without a tacky residue, it transforms your skincare routine into a luxurious experience.
No makeup application woes here! 🎨 Your skin remains soft, well-moisturized, and hydrated throughout the journey. However, a note for those with oily skin – the richness might be a tad too much. Dive into my latest blog post for an in-depth exploration of this skincare marvel – your ticket to radiant, nourished skin awaits! 💖 #CaudalieMagic #SkincareReview #GlowingSkin #BeautyElixir”

Age gracefully with Retinol! 🌟 The sweet spot f

Age gracefully with Retinol! 🌟 The sweet spot for anti-aging magic begins at 25-30. Once past our collagen peak, it’s time to boost and maintain that youthful glow with a little assistance. Embrace the journey of timeless beauty! 💖✨ #AgeWithGrace #SkincareEssentials” Write a caption...

⏰ Is it ever too late for Retinol? The answer is

⏰ Is it ever too late for Retinol? The answer is a resounding NO! 🌟 Especially for those in their 40s and 50s, where the effects of time are more noticeable. 💪✨
🚀 Time to Retinol: Different strengths, different results. Low for prevention, medium for wrinkle-busting, high for the brave! 💆‍♂️💫
🌿 Slow & Steady: Minimize side effects by starting slow and gradually leveling up. It’s a journey, not a race! 🌈
💖 40s & 50s Perfection: Your golden age to explore prescription-strength retinoids like Tretinoin for ultimate skin rejuvenation. Age is just a number, and so is timeless beauty! ✨ #RetinolRevolution #SkincareJourney #TimelessBeauty”
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🌿 Embrace the wisdom: Prevention over cure, esp

🌿 Embrace the wisdom: Prevention over cure, especially when it comes to skin aging! 🌟 Break the myth that anti-aging skincare is only for later. Start the journey now, because age is just a number, and so is timeless beauty! 💫✨ #SkincareWisdom #agegracefully

Unlock the secret to flawless skin with this Begin

Unlock the secret to flawless skin with this Beginner’s Guide to Retinol! 🌟 If you’re new to the retinol game, opt for cream-based formulas – they’re your skin’s best friend. Why, you ask?
👉 Dermatology wisdom: Creams are a win for sensitive skin, offering a buffer with more ingredients, including antioxidants, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid. 🌿✨
🚀 Speed vs. Sensitivity: Unlike serum or gel-based options, cream-based retinol takes its time, allowing your skin to adapt gradually. Say goodbye to beginner’s irritation! 🙅‍♀️
⏳ Slow and Steady: Want to level up your skincare game? Seek products with encapsulated, drone, or time-release technology. These gems drip-feed the goodness, ensuring your skin embraces the benefits without overwhelming it. 🎯
Your journey to radiant, irritation-free skin begins here! 💆‍♀️✨ #SkincareSolutions #RetinolRituals #GlowingSkinJourney

Here's a suggested Instagram caption for a post wi

Here's a suggested Instagram caption for a post with that text about why to use retinol:
Need reasons to add retinol to your routine? 🤔 Here are some of the anti-aging benefits:
🌟 Retinol boosts collagen and elastin to reduce fines lines and wrinkles. Hello, smoother skin! 👋
🌟 It improves skin color by producing new blood vessels. Brighter, more even tone is on the way! 🌞
🌟 Retinol decreases melanin production to fade age spots and improve uneven tone. Bye bye dark spots! 👋
So if you're looking to smooth, brighten and even out your complexion, it might be time to try retinol! Let me know if you have any other questions about this anti-aging skincare superhero. 🦸‍♀️

Getting your skin ready for retinol is key for a s

Getting your skin ready for retinol is key for a smooth start! Here are the steps to take:
💧 Hydrate skin 6-8 weeks pre-retinol with a nourishing AM/PM routine
🛑 Stop harsh cleansers & exfoliants 2 weeks before
☀️ Apply mineral SPF daily to get skin (and you!) used to it
💆‍♀️ Do your last waxing session at least 2 weeks prior
🧴 Use moisturizers with barrier-repairing ingredients
Prepping your skin the right way helps minimize retinol irritation and purging. Don't skip this important step! Let me know your fave products for getting skin retinol-ready!

Those dreaded retinol side effects got you down? 😩 Purging, irritation, dry skin - I feel you! But don't give up on retinol just yet. 🙏 I’ve got 17 pro tips to help you ease into retinol use and minimize the side effects. 💡
The key is taking it SLOW - start with a low percentage, space out applications, and buffer with moisturizer. 🧴 Avoid irritants like exfoliants and fragrances during the adjustment period. 🙅‍♀️ And resist picking at purge breakouts! 🤏 They'll clear faster thanks to retinol's skin cell turnover.
Read this blog post to get the full scoop on how to make retinol your skin's new BFF, not enemy. 🤝 Let me know below if you have any other retinol tips!

Uh oh! Retinol burn got you down? 😢 Don’t des

Uh oh! Retinol burn got you down? 😢 Don’t despair - here are some tips to sooth and restore your skin back to its happy place. Adjust your routine, go makeup free, and amp up the hydration game with gentle moisturisers and hyaluronic acid. Don’t forget the SPF ☀️even if the weather is bad! Cool water rinses, Aloe Vera, and an ice pack (safely though) can bring relief. Consider a dash of hydrocortisone 1% to calm the inflammation. #SkincareSOS #RetinolRecovery #skinhealing

- Retinol Strengths: - Low: 0.01% – 0.03% - Mo

- Retinol Strengths:
- Low: 0.01% – 0.03%
- Moderate: 0.04% – 0.1%
- High: 0.5% – 2%
- Starting Point:
- Begin with low strength.
- Allow your skin to acclimate before advancing.
- Individual Considerations:
- Determine where to start based on your circumstances.
- Goals influence the choice within the strength range.
- Preventive Use:
- If using retinol preventively for anti-ageing, starting with low strength is recommended.
- No rush to increase, as studies suggest prolonged low strength is effective against aging signs.

"Unlocking the secrets of retinol: From Retinoid I

"Unlocking the secrets of retinol: From Retinoid Irritation to Retinol Burn and the mysterious Retinol Purging. Swipe left to demystify the names and understand what it really means for your skin's journey. 🌟 #SkincareDecoded #RetinolRevelations"

Unlock the secrets of retinol for your skincare ro

Unlock the secrets of retinol for your skincare routine! Discover essential tips and tricks for beginners on how to use and apply retinol effectively. Learn about its anti-aging benefits and how to incorporate it into your daily regimen. Navigate the potential side effects with confidence and achieve radiant, youthful-looking skin. Dive into the article to master the art of using retinol and elevate your skincare game!

"Summer Skin Protection ☀️🌿: Embracing shad

"Summer Skin Protection ☀️🌿: Embracing shade for a sun-safe summer! ☂️

Whether seeking leafy trees, covered structures, or exploring indoor havens, we're keeping our skin shielded from harmful UV rays. Stay cool, protected, and enjoy the season! 😎

#SummerSkinProtection #SunSafeSummer #EmbraceTheShade"

"Suns out, check your expiry dates! ☀️📆

"Suns out, check your expiry dates! ☀️📆

Don't let your sunscreen turn into a relic. 🧴⏳ Remember, that little pot symbol holds the secret.

No symbol? It’s 3 years unopened or 1 year opened. Stay protected and keep your skin glowing! 💪🌟

#SunscreenCheck #ExpirationDateAwareness #SunSafety #HealthySkin #ProtectYourself"

🌞🧴 Suncream Application: Protecting your ski

🌞🧴 Suncream Application: Protecting your skin is a breeze when you incorporate sunscreen into your daily skincare routine! ☀💦 But wait, there's more to it than just slapping it on. Let's dive into some essential tips and tricks you might not know about:

1. Apply 30 minutes before going into the sun ⏰: Give your sunscreen time to absorb and create a protective shield against harmful UV rays. ⛅

2. Sunscreen should be no less than 30 SPF ☀: Remember, the SPF number indicates how long the sun's radiation would take to burn you with the product on, compared to without it. Stay sun-safe! 🚫🔥

3. Apply after moisturizing, before makeup 💦💄: Moisturizer first, sunscreen last! Let your moisturizer soak in, but make sure the sunscreen is the final protective coat against UV rays. Shield up! 🛡😎

4. Don't rely on sunscreen in makeup alone 💄: While it helps, makeup alone might not be ""broad spectrum"" enough to guard you against UVA and UVB. Opt for a dedicated sunscreen that's got your back! 👍🏻🌈"

5️. Reapply throughout the day ⏰: If you're soaking up the sun all day long, remember to reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours. The sun can dry it off, and it gradually breaks down while protecting you. Stay refreshed and protected! 💦🌴

#SunscreenTips #SkincareEssentials #StaySunSafe #ProtectYourSkin #SunSmart #HealthyHabits #SkinProtection #SunCareRoutine #SummerSkincare #DailyRoutine #UVProtection #antiaging

"✨ Let your skin shine with the power of retinol

"✨ Let your skin shine with the power of retinol! 🌙🌟 Applying retinol products at night is the secret to glowing skin. 😴✨

#NighttimeRoutine #SkincareMagic #RetinolBenefits #BeautySleep #GlowingSkin"

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