My complexion is far from even - it's red and blotchy and thread veins make an unwelcome appearance from time-to-time. Okay, I've just described a rather unattractive alcoholic old man - it's not actually that bad. I just suffer from oversensitive blood vessels - a problem which runs in the family and is exacerbated by cold weather and lifestyle vices.
Drinking doesn't help and my years as a smoker have proved as destructive externally as internally. I haven't touched a cigarette for over a year and a half now, but all that pursing of lips and inhaling has brought thread veins to the surface of my cheeks. Attractive.
As I'm not vain or rich enough to go for laser surgery, I decided to give Medik8's Red Alert range of serums, cleansers and moisturisers a go.
The range promises to help reduce redness and thread veins. It's recommended that you use the products together for at least eight weeks, and while I can't say that I've used all them religiously every day, I'm coming to the end of each bottle having had them for over two months.
The results
The great thing about these products is that they're perfect for everyday use - this isn't a beauty programme that will take extra time out of your day. The moisturiser is light and non-greasy, the cleanser foamy and refreshing and the serum isn't as oily as it looks.
I loved the pump moisturiser so much that it was gone within a month, and have since switched to a tinted moisturiser which has also helped to even-out my skin tone. The cleanser smells of cucumber and apples and certainly helps to cool the skin, and I've used the serum sparingly on problem areas with noticeable effect.
I've not been hugely overwhelmed by the results of this range, but they have made a difference and are of such a good quality that they justify their £22-£34 price tags. I'd buy them again.
www.medik8.co.uk