Beauty Collective - WInter Beauty Essentials

6 winter beauty essentials we’re currently coveting

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As someone who loves the warm, sultry months of summer, I always find it hard adjusting to the dry, cold air of winter, and this is coming from the person who spent 25 years living in the UK! I guess I just don’t like the way my skin goes from dewy and glowy to dehydrated and drab in just a matter of months.

Cold days, zero humidity and artificial heating we all become accustomed to in winter, can put undue stress on our skin, leading to a dry, lifeless or super sensitive complexion!  So when our skin starts to change, as a result of the change in season, it’s time to up the ante and incorporate new beauty products in your daily routine – winter companions your skin now needs. We’ve listed our go-tos, 6 beauty essentials we are currently coveting this winter, the products we know will take your skin from dry, dull and irritated to nourished, glowy and perfectly protected in next to no time.

 

Pevonia Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream

If Hyaluronic Acid doesn’t already feature in your daily skincare routine, it should now! When it comes to dehydration, (which by the way is the no. 1 skincare issue during winter) the first product you should double down on is hyaluronic acid skincare! This is because hyaluronic acid is ‘The Don’ when it comes to hydration.

Pevonia’s Age Correction Marine Collagen Cream isn’t just formulated with collagen, it’s packed with Squalane, Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid too! It’s the perfect combination of rich but light and literally infuses skin with moisture replenishing vital nutrients. I love, love, love this product (in fact all year round!) and when combined with Pevonia’s Age Correction Intensifier Collagen & Myoxy Caviar, this powerful duo deliver radiant, moisture-rich skin.

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Marine Collagen Cream

Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate

I’m a huge advocate for face oils in winter. Not only do they calm and nourish skin, more importantly they strengthen the skin’s barrier which in winter can be seriously compromised. Due to their oily nature, face oils are wonderful for layering over the skin for intense hydration and protection.

Remember face oils are for everyone, so don’t be scared to use them. For many years now I have turned to my faithful friend Pevonia’s Vitaminic Concentrate during the winter months and I can honestly say it’s a game-changer for my skin. It’s a luxurious dry oil (so absorbs very fast!) with a mandarin aroma which is to die for, and it radically combats excessive dryness, dehydration, and premature aging all in one!

Beauty Collective - Pevonia Vitaminic Concentrate

ELES Cosmetics Age Defying BB Cream 30

If your skin is dull and lacking life you want to choose a foundation with hydrating and skin brightening benefits. After all your foundation should enhance your complexion, not mask it. This winter look to switching up your foundation for one formulated with hyaluronic and Vitamin A, these key ingredients will help skin appear more hydrated, plumped and healthy!

We love ELES’s Age Defying BB Cream 30 for so many reasons! It’s a multi-tasking miracle! It literally primes, tints, nourishes, protects, blurs and evens out your skin tone for a truly, natural, flawless finish. And thanks to its skin-loving ingredients over time it helps to promote cell health, strengthen elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and restore that natural glow you once donned! What’s more, you’ll feel as though you aren’t even wearing makeup oh and it provides skin with the necessary SPF 30 sun protection which is just as imperative in the cooler winter months as it is in summer!

ELES BB Cream 30

ELES Cosmetics Baked Blush

We are all on a quest for that healthy youthful glow, especially in the winter months when it’s almost non-existent, so blush is a must! Just a few swipes of blush will not only add colour and depth to your cheeks but can make your entire complexion look healthier, and your skin more youthful. It adds an extra glow that bronzer and highlighter just can’t mimic.

We highly recommend the ELES Baked Blush in a shade of your preference – my current favourite is Posey. It adds instant radiance to your cheeks thanks to its highly pigmented formula. Plus, it’s silky smooth and super nourishing, great for dull, dehydrated skin types!

Just be sure to apply it correctly – use a Blush Brush and lift colour upwards towards your temple from the apple of your cheek. You won’t regret introducing this little staple!

Beauty Collective - ELES Cosmetics - Baked Blush

Pevonia Dry Oil Body Moisturiser

Often, we become lazy when it our bodies in winter! Neglecting the areas of our skin we have become accustomed to looking after in warm summer months! However, during winter, the skin on our bodies becomes just as dry and lacklustre as the skin on our face! And I’m sure none of us like that uncomfortable, itchy feeling every evening when we’ve indulged in a hot shower or bath but not bothered to moisturise after!

We get it though, not everyone is a fan of rich body moisturisers that can leave your skin feeling a little on the sticky side! Cue Pevonia’s international best-selling body product (and one of our all-time favourites) the Dry Oil Body Moisturiser! Even though it’s a ‘dry oil’ it literally indulges and nourishes skin without leaving an oily or greasy feeling, at all! This is because it absorbs immediately into skin leaving it feeling silky soft and supple after every application instead! If you apply it straight after the shower while your skin is still a little damp, you’ll lock in moisture and reap in the benefits too. Plus it’ll restore any moisture lost from standing under that super-hot water I mentioned earlier that many of us I’m sure love to indulge in, in the cold winter months! Guilty as charged!

Phytomer Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream

Our hands often bear the brunt of the winter chill, this is why a good hand cream is an absolute essential for me in winter, and hey why shouldn’t we look after our hands as we do our face? The thing is before I discovered Phytomer’s Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream I hated the feel of wearing hand cream and I’d want to wash my hands immediately after I’d applied it, so instead I used to bear the brunt of dry cracked skin! Not anymore! My favourite hand cream (and I’ve tried many) absorbs into skin immediately and intensely nourishes, soothes and softens my dry, damaged hands.  I take it everywhere I go!

Phytomer Oleocreme Ultra-Nourishing Hand Cream

Phytomer

The best Phytomer products according to you

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Whether you are after a soothing, foaming cleaner, a beautifully nourishing cream, or a moisturiser to combat signs of ageing, Phytomer could be the brand for you! And yes, we know we are biased, after all we personally handpicked this exquisite French marine brand to join the Beauty Collective fold, but to prove these products deserve a place in your beauty repertoire, we’ve rounded up some of the best skincare buys from Phytomer according to you, the most reliable skincare addicts there are!

 

  1. The most loved CLEANSER for all skin types

Souffle Marin Cleansing Foaming Cream

This is one of the gentlest foaming cleansers you’ll ever try. On contact with water the silky cream transforms into an airy foam, beautifully cleansing your face while offering your skin all the benefits of the seaside! (it’s formulated with lots of marine goodness!) Don’t just take my word for it though…

“This product is amazing!! The lather is rich but not thick. It really cleans my skin and removes all the makeup. Pleasant smell too.” Ileana

“I’m on my third tube and can’t live without it! The texture foams up perfectly, it smells great and most importantly my skin feels clean and refreshed after each wash.” Vickie K

“Simply amazing! I have been using this cleanser for a while now and am hooked for life. I have extremely sensitive skin and have spent YEARS looking for a cleanser that is just right for me. This light, fluffy cleanser is the perfect answer with the perfect consistency while still holding cleansing strength that is not too harsh.” Kristen F

“Nice texture, divine smell. Excellent cleanser. I use it mostly in the morning, but it can easily handle lighter make up in the evening too. I definitely recommend it!” Debbie

 

  1. The perfect CLEANSER for sensitive and acne prone skin

Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk

If you are suffering from sensitive skin and have been long searching for a gentle cleansing milk, you might need to look no further! This cleanser’s beautifully nourishing creamy texture literally melts into your skin gently removing makeup and impurities without disturbing your skin’s barrier. It’s wonderful.

“I have oily/acne prone skin and this cleanser works wonders removing makeup, oil, and impurities. It leaves my skin feeling amazing! Breakouts have subsided and my skin is looking better and better!” Imogen

“Hands down the best facial cleanser I’ve ever used. Always leaves your face feeling clean while hydrating. Use in the morning and at night, with the Rose Visage Toner. Don’t know If I could ever move on to a different product!” Lisa

“First of all let me say that I am mostly dry… I never had problems with ache or any other skin issue until I turned 24. After initial breakouts I tried EVERYTHING!!! My skin is EXTREMELY hypersensitive to most cleansers EXCEPT… this one!! This moisturising cleanser not only cleans and hydrates your face, but also is extremely light and NON toxic to the skin. I generally use it most days of the week in the shower followed by the toner. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! The initial cost looks pricy… but one bottle lasts A LONG time!!! :)” Simone

“The best cleansing milk that I have ever tried! I just love it. My skin feels so soft, clean and refresh, not dry at all… Highly recommend!” Deb

  1. The highly sought-after LOTION

Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion

This all-in-one alcohol-free cleanser, toner and makeup remover, is beautifully gentle and wonderful to use. It perfectly balances your skin’s pH after thoroughly removing any last traces of dirt, grime, makeup and impurities left behind after cleansing. And does so without leaving an oily film or a dry, harsh feeling like other toners can! And when added to your daily skincare routine and used regularly, it can have major positive impact on the appearance and tightness of your pores too! Want silky soft and supple skin? Add this must-have into your beauty routine.

“This is fantastic, I use it to clean my entire face including removing my mascara. It removes any residual makeup or sweat from my skin & does not irritate my sensitive skin. Love it, can’t lie without this.” Lauren

“This is the best and wonderful toner that I have ever used in my entire life!. You can feel it being cleaned after you have done your cleanser. Does not dry or strip your skin and it is so gentle to use.” Judy Mulder

“Holy Grail Toner! I have tried so many toners at basically every price point and this toner is my all-time favourite. There’s just something in this toner that truly leaves my skin better for use. Even after it dries off my skin does not feel tight or dry. If you’re in the market for a new toner I highly highly recommend giving this one a try.” Barbara

“This is the best toner I have used so far. I have sensitive skin and have been breaking out recently due to pregnancy hormones. This has really helped keep my skin clean and refreshed. I use it in the morning and at night. It does not dry out my skin like other toners can. Love the smell also.” Angela

 

  1. The must-have EXFOLIANT

Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes

This seriously soft, silky and subtly scented exfoliant for all skin types, eliminates impurities by gently removing dead skin cells with natural enzymes (so no scrubbing or irritating the skin whatsoever!) It encourages cell turnover, revealing beautifully luminous and youthful skin after every use – no jokes! So if you aren’t a lover of physical exfoliators (the ones with the bits!) this Vegetal Exfoliant is for you too, even if you have very sensitive skin!

“Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant works miracles on my sensitive skin. It gently lifts off dead cells and cleans open pores without being abrasive. Simply apply, relax 15-20 minutes, then remove.” Taylor

“I bought this after reading the reviews and it makes my skin glow and feel silky. Totally worth it!!” Justine P

“I have the most sensitive skin, so I can’t use those exfoliants that contain microbeads or scrubs…this is a great alternative. It sloughs off all of the dead skin cells without ever irritating my skin! I use it once a week at the minimum, and it keeps my face glowing and smooth. It’s the most wonderful exfoliant ever!” Sarah R

“I have been using this product for over ten years because of my very sensitive skin. It isn’t gritty, which keeps my skin from getting irritated and it very gently removes dead dull skin. Always leaves my skin glowing and even toned with no redness or irritation. I usually follow with Phytomer’s deeply hydrating Hydracontinue mask and it is like having baby skin again! Highly recommend!” Laura

 

  1. The critically acclaimed radiance SERUM

Souffle Marin Energizing Oxygenating Serum

This silky soft, lightweight serum coats the skin in pure oxygen providing the cells with vivid rejuvenation. Formulated with marine extracts, this serum protects against environmental pollution and free radical damage, so it’s outstanding for dull, devitalized skin or skin that is in real need of a pick-me-up!

Looking for an increase in radiance? Softer more youthful skin perhaps? This is your guy!

“I have used this beautiful product for two years. It hydrates and leaves your skin so soft and smooth morning and evening, yes even under make-up.” Amanda

“I’ve been using this day and night for a while and noticed that my skin just drank it up so quickly, I didn’t need to hang around before applying a cc or night oil. Supplies are getting low and I tried skipping the morning application and boy! did I notice the difference in my skin. Scraping the bottle now while I wait for my order to arrive. This is amazing stuff for us more mature ladies.” Lisa D

“This is a fabulous product! My skin used to look dull all the time due to stress and pollution. After using this product it improved my skin with overall radiance. It makes my skin look brighter, fresher and younger looking ….! Love it.” Joanne

“I purchased this based upon a recommendation. This is a wonderful product. My skin feels much softer after using it and as another person stated, it really does smell good. It is a perfect pairing for any face cream.” Glennon

 

  1. The truly formidable WRINKLE CREAM

Expert Youth Wrinkle Plumping Cream

If you want to see a reduction in your wrinkles give this cream a go! It works by plumping up fine lines and wrinkles using a precise blend of outstanding marine ingredients – brown algae and red vegetal coral. What’s more the formulation has recently been revamped for more naturality and more effectiveness on all wrinkles!

“I have been using this product for quite some time.  No one EVER believes me when I share my age or mention my two grandchildren.  I love this cream!” Diane

“If you are looking for a beautiful nourishing moisturiser to help with fine lines and wrinkles while being soothing and nourishing for ageing, dry and sensitive skin, then give this a try! I highly recommend!” Sally W

“I have used many different moisturisers and keep coming back to this one. A little goes a long way and my skin feels amazing using this morning and night. Truly an exceptional product!!!” Sarah

“I’ve been using this cream for several years now. Hands down, it is truly a wonderful moisturizing cream. It does have a slight fragrance, but not overpowering. Your skin feels so, so soft and hydrated after using it with no oily feeling whatsoever! My aesthetician recommended it several years ago and she was spot on with it being a great product. My face prior to using this cream was really dry feeling pretty much all the time. This is a game changer moisturizing cream!!!! Love, love, love it!” Diane H

 

  1. The best soothing sensitive skin CREAM

Douceur Marine Soothing Moisturising Cream

This best-selling moisturiser from Phytomer is outstanding for those suffering from sensitive, acne or rosacea prone skin. It’s intensely comforting formula feels like velvet on the skin and effectively nourishes, cools, calms, soothes and reduces skin redness and discomfort! Another bonus is that it also strengthens the skin’s natural defences against stress, weather and pollution! What more could sensitive skin sufferers ask for?

“This is the best for sensitive skin! It is like a drink for thirsty, irritated skin. Never stings, soothing, soothing cream. Worth every penny.” Lulu R

“My favourite day cream, I have used this soothing cream every day for nearly 10 years. It hydrates without upsetting my sensitive and acne-prone skin. It feels so cooling once applied and really calms the skin without feeling greasy or heavy.” Celicity F

“After much trial and error I’ve finally found a moisturizer that protects, softens, and reduces the look of redness on my very sensitive skin. I’ve been using it for a year and still can’t believe how cool, calm, and smooth its made my skin feel. This moisturizer is everything and I would recommend it to anyone who suffers from redness and sensitivities. Thank you Phytomer!” Samantha A

“My skin is super sensitive and this cream soothes and calms while nourishing. Lovely texture too.” Lisa D

 

  1. The skin brightening beauty CREAM

Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream

This is a beautifully nourishing but lightweight cream with a velvety finish. The products name definitely reflects the results, as this subtly scented moisturiser is both energising and radiance inducing that’s for sure! I couldn’t rave more about it myself! But this blog isn’t about it, it’s about what you all think of the products!

“Love this cream, very light but still hydrating. Does not feel oily or greasy, and leaves my skin looking very healthy and refreshed. The perfect moisturiser!” Amber

“I am in love with this product, it’s become my go-to moisturiser this summer since it’s silky and light yet keeps my skin moisturised all day long! It has a lovely subtle scent, and the products name definitely reflects the results – it’s energising and radiance inducing that’s for sure!” JoJo

“Have been using this moisturiser for a number of years. It is creamy without being too heavy. My skin feels glowing when I use it each morning. I recommend it highly.” Veronica

“This is another wonderful product from Phytomer. My favourite moisturiser now. I love the way it feels, velvety and soothing. The lightweight creamy texture gives a continuous boost of hydration to last through the entire day or night. It is perfect for sensitive skin with rapid absorption to achieve a more youthful glowing appearance. I will definitely be purchasing it again.” Laura

Beauty Collective - makeup brushes

How often you should clean and replace your makeup brushes

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We all long for flawless, blemish-free skin no matter our age, so taking care of it daily is essential for keeping breakouts at bay. The majority of us will follow a daily skincare routine, but do we all maintain the tools we use on our skin to ensure they aren’t the cause of any unwanted pimples or other skin irritations? And when I say tools, I’m talking about the ‘tools of the trade’ – aka makeup brushes.

When it comes to flawless makeup application, makeup brushes are a must-have. They are an essential tool in every beauty enthusiast’s kit! They help us achieve flawless makeup application, enhance our features, and create stunning looks. However, many of us do often overlook a crucial aspect of using makeup brushes – cleaning and replacing them regularly. Proper maintenance of our makeup brushes not only ensures better makeup application but also promotes healthier skin. Keep reading as we explain why you need to keep your brushes clean, how often you should wash your brushes, and when it’s time to totally replace them!

 

Why do you need to clean your makeup brushes?

If you notice an increase in breakouts or skin irritations, your brushes might be to blame. Dirty brushes can harbor bacteria and nasty stuff that wreak havoc on your skin. Imagine all the makeup residue, oils, and dead skin cells that accumulate on your brushes after each use. If you don’t clean them regularly, these impurities can lead to several issues, including:

Bacterial buildup – Dirty brushes become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to breakouts, skin irritations, and infections.

Patchy Application – Residue from previous makeup applications can interfere with the colours and textures of new products, leading to uneven and patchy makeup application.

Clogged pores – When brushes are not cleaned, they carry excess oils and debris, which can clog your pores and contribute to acne formation.

Decreased Brush Performance – Dirty brushes lose their softness and shape, making them less effective in blending and achieving the desired makeup look.

But before you freak out and head off on that shopping spree, remember regular cleaning can extend the life of your brushes.

How often should you clean your makeup brushes?

To prevent bacteria build up and potentially exacerbating any skin issues, make it habit to give your brushes a thorough cleanse. The frequency of cleaning your makeup brushes can depend though on how often you use them and the type of products you apply. As a general rule of thumb if you are using your brushes pretty much daily, follow these guidelines:

Foundation brushes and sponges – Since foundation brushes come in direct contact with your skin, they should be cleaned after each use no matter what the foundation. Beauty sponges, like the famous Beauty Blender, should also be washed after every application.

Eyeshadow Brushes – If you use eyeshadow brushes daily, it’s best to clean them at least once a week. Brushes used with cream eyeshadows may require more frequent cleaning.

Blush and Powder Brushes – Brushes used for powder-based products like blush, bronzer, and setting powder should be cleaned every 1-2 weeks.

Lip Brushes – Lip brushes should be washed after every use, especially if you work with bold or dark lip colours.

How should you clean your makeup brushes?

We get it, many of us are time poor and cleaning your brushes might sound like a tedious task, but it really is essential for maintaining their quality and your skin’s health. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

Use gentle cleansers – Opt for a gentle brush cleanser, baby shampoo, or mild soap to clean your brushes. Harsh chemicals can damage the bristles. If you use a gentle face wash, I also recommend using that too.

Warm water rinse – Wet the bristles with warm water to remove excess makeup easily.

Avoid soaking the base – When cleaning your brushes, avoid soaking the base of the bristles as this can loosen the glue and cause shedding.

Pat dry with a towel – After cleaning, gently pat the brushes with a clean towel and reshape them to retain their original form.

Air dry upside down – To prevent water from seeping into the base, dry your brushes upside down or at a slight angle.

 

If you keep them clean, why do you need to replace your makeup brushes?

No matter how well you care for your makeup brushes, they won’t last forever. Over time, the bristles can become frayed, lose their shape, and fail to perform as they did when new. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to replace your brushes:

Shedding – If your brush sheds bristles excessively despite proper care, it’s time to invest in a new one.

Frayed bristles – Brushes with frayed or splayed bristles won’t give you the precise application you desire.

Hardened bristles – Over time, some product residues can harden the bristles, making them less effective and potentially abrasive to your skin.

Unpleasant smell – If your brushes retain a persistent, unpleasant odor even after cleaning, it’s best to replace them.

Signs of wear and tear – If you notice visible signs of wear and tear, such as a cracked handle or discoloured bristles, it’s time to retire your brush.

 

ELES Cosmetics makeup brushes

Remember, investing in high-quality brushes from the get-go can make a huge difference. Not only will they last longer but they’ll also give you better makeup results. Quality brushes tend to have more durable bristles and sturdy handles, making them worth the splurge.

We recommend investing in makeup brushes made from allergy free synthetic fibres. Easier to keep clean, less likely to harbour bacteria and ideal for makeup application. Try ELES Cosmetics range of professional makeup brushes. Their smooth synthetic fibres do not absorb or trap pigment making them a breeze to clean!

You can purchase them individually dependant on your makeup needs, or shop the full 15 piece collection