So, I did it again. I knew it would happen, I just knew that this kind of lunch time walk is dangerous for my wallet, but nevertheless I went there. All I needed to buy was a face mask, but had a feeling it will not be the only item I will be leaving the store with. I am well aware from other bloggers that Space NK Apothecary is often seen as a bit of a “Mecca” to all skincare or makeup lovers, and that very few people actually manage to leave the store without the cute black and white bag containing some precious goodies, a few tens of pounds (or dollars) lighter. But they usually leave the store feeling happy and excited, possibly with a slight tinge of guilt…

No, actually, there was no feeling of guilt for me this time. Not even a bit, as I only bought one extra item which was on my mental “Wish list” anyway. And I got a couple of free samples from the helpful store assistant, and they are always welcome!

Malin+Goetz

Anyway, here is what I bought from Space NK this time. You will have read here on my blog that I have had a chance to try the gorgeous detox mask by Malin+Goetz earlier this year – I popped the free sample to my virtual basket when I did my Brummels of London mini haul last month. What can I say, I fell in love with this product even though I have only used the mask once: I found it to be so gentle to my sensitive skin, so hydrating, and it smells amazing too: if you love natural almond scent, you must check this mask out!

I loved the fizzy-bubbles-popping sensation on my skin while the mask was doing its magic too. After trying the sample I needed to get a full size product, I knew it would not be a waste of money, and I intend to use this mask on a regular basis twice a week or so, for a good deep clean. Normally I would need to use the skincare product a few times before I form a solid opinion on whether I like it or not, but this mask just blew me away!

Malin+Goetz Detox face mask and some goodies by Caudalie

According to information from Space NK website, Malin+Goetz Detox mask “contains amino acids and natural almond extract, it cleanses, purifies and soothes whilst Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Soy Protein help firm the skin, helping prevent ageing”. Having now used it a couple of time, I can say that it is no wonder this mask is a winner of Allure Magazine’s Editor’s Choice Best of Beauty Awards (2008) for Best Deep Cleansing Mask – it really is a great product!

Caudalíe Beauty Elixir with samples from Space NK Apothecary

Caudalíe

Another product I have picked up while waiting in the queue to the checkout was a 30ml size of another cult skincare product: Caudalíe Beauty Elixir. For years, I heard beauty bloggers raving about it, about how good it smells and how they take it with them everywhere for an instant cooling and refreshing effect with just a couple of spritzes. I always had it in a back of my mind to buy a small bottle so I can carry it in my handbag, especially in the summer months. I do already have a large bottle of Omorovicza Queen of Hungary mist which I absolutely adore and use at home: the heat from the radiators both at work and at home do make my skin suffer. But the bottle I have is a bit too big and heavy to carry around and I could not justify spending £25 on the product that I already have.

My previous experience of Caudalíe was fairly positive – I enjoyed their Gentle Cleansing Milk a few years ago but I have not really used any other of their products, so I was curious to try something different. When I was hanging around by Malin+Goetz section looking for the mask, the friendly store assistant has asked me if I was familiar with Caudalíe brand, and offered me to try a small sample of Caudalíe Instant Detox mask. As any skincare addict, I could not refuse and got a little pot which I have now used it once and must admit, I have enjoyed it too.

Just as I was paying at the checkout, the lovely lady gave me a small pink tube of Caudalíe Vinosource Moisturising Sorbet to try too. Who does not like free samples?

Caudalie freebies from Space NK Apothecary

I am very chuffed with my purchases from Space NK Apothecary, needless to say that Malin+Goetz is now firmly in my favourite skincare brands list. And I am enjoying the Caudalíe Beauty Elixir – my curiosity is now satisfied and I may even repurchase it!

What are your favourite Malin+Goetz or Caudalíe products? Do let me know, I would love to hear your thoughts on these!