I was first introduced to Jamela products at the Anti-Ageing Show last year. I was there representing Kinetic’s various brands – mostly talking about Antipodes, Amazing Grass, Terranova and Nutiva to the consumers – however, it didn’t go unnoticed that there were lots of people wandering around with Gold Undereye Patches. Not wanted to miss out on this beauty craze at the show I picked a pair up and wore them all the way home to Muswell Hill (amid some strange looks – I had all but forgotten I was wearing them!) It wasn’t until Mr BB asked what I had on my face that I remembered I was sporting gold undereye bags.
Upon discovery that Jamela offered a full face mask, I felt obliged to give this product a whirl. Now, this is marketed as a natural product however there are a few ingredients I questioned on the list –
1.2-propanediol – this is otherwise known as Propylene Glycol! I usually avoid products with this in as it is toxic in large quantities and an irritant to skin and respiratory system.
ethylene glycol phenyl ether – this is otherwise known as Phenoxyethanol. A controversial ingredient with much debate given to its safety in cosmetics. It’s been linked to skin irritation, reproductive toxicity and neurotoxicity. Some believe it is safe to use at concentrations of less than 1%. Personally, I wouldn’t use anything with it on a day to day basis.
phlogopite – a mineral.
There’s also Soya Protein which is great for giving a youthful appearance to the skin however those with oestrogen imbalances may wish to avoid this ingredient and don’t even get me started on the environmental issues that are attached to Soya.
On the plus side, the mask contains plumping Rose Oil, Collagen Moisturiser and rejuvenating Gold Leaf. The mask claims to aid the promotion of collagen production and improve elasticity to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is thought that the combination of gold and plant collagen contains natural healing properties and also detoxifies the skin, whilst nutrients contained in the mask are easily absorbed at a rate of 10 times that of a traditional face mask.
Whilst the instructions said to leave on for up to 5 hours for optimum efficiency, both Mr BB and I left ours on for just 30 – 45 minutes. When you first apply the mask it has a remarkable cooling sensation for the skin. Post-treatment my skin felt smooth, hydrated (thanks to the use of Hyaluronic Acid!) and the next morning my complexion was bright and even. I looked like I had slept really well and my skin looked rejuvenated, even though it was the first night on our cruise holiday and I barely slept a wink.
All in all an effective face mask, that delivered results. However, due to the presence of glycol esters, I will not be repurchasing.
Available from jamelaskincare.co.uk Jamela Luxurious Gold Crystal Collagen Facial Masks