skincare for acne

Clear skin? 10 steps to reduce acne

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Whether you are battling occasional breakouts or dealing with persistent acne, we understand how frustrating having problematic skin can be, especially when all you want is a clear glowing complexion, is that really too much to ask? While acne is a common skin concern, it doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to radically reduce it! Keep reading as we reveal our 10 top tips…

 

  1. Cleanse twice daily

Start your skincare routine with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities from your skin. Be sure to cleanse both morning and night, but we picky with what products you use. You don’t want to choose a harsh cleaner that’ll strip your skin of its natural oils as this can lead to an increase in oil production and in turn more potential breakouts! Eek. You want to look for gentle formulations rich in ingredients such as salicylic acid or lactic acid as they can help prevent the buildup of sebum (which can contribute to acne.)

Try Medicalia Clarifying Cleanser. With a balanced blend of lactic and salicylic acid the gentle cleanser works quickly and effectively to eliminate toxins, impurities, surface bacteria, and make-up. It’s ideal for inflamed, sensitive, acne prone and oily skin types.

“I have problem skin & after using this product my face is clear & people have commented on the changes.” Laurie

Beauty Collective - Medicalia - Clarifying Cleanser

  1. Exfoliate weekly, but be sure to be gentle

Incorporating a mild exfoliant into your skincare routine can do wonders in the fight against acne. Exfoliating will help to remove any dead skin cells sitting on the surface of your skin which can clog pores and lead to breakouts!

Just remember over exfoliating can have the adverse effect and actually irritate your skin so make sure to exfoliate just once a week to start and use a gentle exfoliator.

Try Phytomer’s Vegetal Exfoliant with Natural Enzymes. It’s a soft exfoliant for even the most sensitive or rosacea prone skin and uses natural enzymes to encourage cell turnover without scrubbing or irritating your skin.

“Gentle on the skin and worked well even for my acne prone skin.” Olive

If you do love a granular scrub though opt for a gentle version like Pevonia’s Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser.Formulated with jojoba beads, Saponaria and chamomile,it gently polishes skin with its unique creamy, granular texture, removing dead skin cells, impurities and toxins to reveal instant radiance and softer, smoother skin too! You’ll love the immediate gratification you’ll get from this formidable favourite of ours.

“This is the best exfoliating cleanser I have ever used. I’m so impressed with the results, my skin feels so much smoother and cleaner.” Chloe

Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser

 

  1. Never skip your moisturiser

Even though sometimes applying moisturiser to oily, acne prone skin can seem counterintuitive, it is essential as you want to steer clear of a damaged skin barrier! With no moisture at all, your skin would become dehydrated and begin to over-compensate by producing more oil! Something you definitely don’t need when it comes to oily, blemish and acne prone skin!

Instead look for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers that won’t feel heavy on your skin.

Try: Phytomer Acnipur Blemish Solution Fluid. This lightweight gel-cream works amazingly on problematic skin reducing overall breakouts

The formula also helps eliminate shine for a clean, matte complexion. With regular use, this acne treatment not only helps diminish the appearance of existing blemishes, but it prevents future breakouts too!

“This fluid is almost like a serum but lighter in texture. I use it after I wash my face morning and night. I have noticed a reduction in breakouts on my skin and also a more mattifying appearance on my skin”. Alyssa

Acnipur Blemish Solution Fluid

 

  1. Spot treat with care

For targeted acne treatment, use spot treatments. These can help reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria. Remember to use them sparingly and only on active breakouts to avoid drying out your skin.

Try: Phytomer’s’ Oligopur Blemish Target Gel, it’s a phenomenal spot treatment which targets blemishes with precision, rapidly improving the skin’s appearance and eliminating spots almost overnight! Simply apply a small amount of product to your pimple and let the powerful ingredients keep your skin follicles clean to achieve an even and bright complexion.

This is the best product to fight pimples! I couldn’t get my chin to clear up and w/in a few days of using phytomer my chin was clear again! Joanne

Beauty Collective - Phytomer Blemish Target Gel

  1.  Never skip on sunscreen

Some acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so protecting your skin is crucial to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun damage. The Sun, heat and humidity can also cause oil glands to become overactive, which in turn can lead to acne breakouts! To prevent these breakouts choose and oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen and apply it liberally daily!

 

  1. Be aware of what you are eating

What you eat can have a huge impact your skin’s health so it’s imperative if you are suffering from acne to Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit your intake of processed foods and sugary treats. Consuming foods high in antioxidants and vitamins can help promote clear, radiant skin too!

Try;

Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna

Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, apricots, and sweet potatoes

Spinach, kale and other dark green and leafy vegetables

Tomatoes

Blueberries

Avocados

whole-wheat bread

brown rice

quinoa

Soybeans

 

 

  1. Reduce your stress levels

Sounds easier said than done I know, we all have those days, weeks, months even where we are super stressed but said stress can lead to acne flare ups!

This is because stress-related hormone CRH can bind to receptors in the skin’s sebaceous glands, increasing oil production. Excess oil production can then cause pimples. So, if you keep breaking out and just can’t understand why, stress might be to blame, so try to relax!

Try; listening to relaxation music or meditate. Also, something as simple as taking a relaxing bubble bath every evening can really help. Exercise is also imperative! While exercising will increase blood flow, helping nourish skin cells and keeping them vital, it has also been accountable for reducing stress-related acne.

 

  1. Keep your phone clean! And your pillowcase too!

Yup, a sudden breakout can be from something as simple as your phone or pillowcase (well anything that touches your face really that could be hosts for harmful bacteria!) And anytime you hold your phone to your face or lie on your pillowcase you are spreading the bacteria to your skin. So, if you haven’t done so for a while, try sanitizing your phone screen and wash that pillowcase of yours more often, it could make a big difference to your skin.

skincare for acne

  1. Hydrate inside and out

We all need to stay hydrated every single day, after all our bodies can’t operate effectively without water, but when I say stay hydrated, I mean drive plenty of water and drink it throughout the day, 8 glasses minimum!

Hydration is key to maintaining healthy skin as it helps flush out toxins and keeps your skin looking plump and radiant.

 

  1. When it comes to makeup, go mineral

Makeup can be a real trigger for pesky pimples. Especially if it’s full of pore clogging ingredients and oils. If you have acne, you are likely going to want to try and conceal but you don’t want to exacerbate it! This is where mineral makeup will become your best friend! Each product in the ELES Mineral Makeup range is free of skin irritants and pore clogging nasties and instead are rich in skin nourishing and nurturing ingredients that will not only allow the skin to breathe freely but will help to improve its condition too!

To learn more about the best makeup and tips for acne click here.

 

By following these ten essential steps and maintaining a consistent skincare routine specifically designed to help acne prone skin, you can take proactive steps toward n reducing acne and achieving the clean, radiant skin you’ve always wanted!

Beauty Collective - Crows-feet

Crow’s feet: How to improve its appearance

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We’ve all heard of crow’s feet, many of us over the age of 40 have likely encountered them, but how do you reduce their appearance, or prevent them from forming in the first place?

If you are on the lookout for natural ways to treat crow’s feet around your eyes, look no further! We’ve put together a list of top tips and natural remedies to help you treat your crow’s feet effectively, without the use of harsh products or invasive procedures (the idea of fillers terrifies me!) Keep reading as we reveal them all!

Firstly what are crow’s feet?

A common skincare concern, crow’s feet (otherwise known as expression lines) are fine lines and wrinkles that form on the outer corners of your eyes as you age. As the skin around our eyes is exceptionally delicate (and thin!) crow’s feet can start to form fairly early for some due to constant muscle use in this area, as well as a gradual reduction in skin’s elasticity.

What causes crow’s feet?

Crow’s feet are caused by a combination of factors, including ageing (due to a decrease in skin’s collagen and elastin production), sun exposure, and repetitive facial expressions. Diet and your genetics can also be contributing factors.

How do you get rid of crow’s feet?

While it’s impossible to stop your eyes from ageing, there are a number of natural ways to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and maintain a more youthful looking eye area. Here’s how;

  1. Hydration is key

As we age the skin around our eyes becomes dryer, thinner and loses its elasticity which leads to fine lines and wrinkles! And unfortunately the dryer this delicate area, the more visible those unwanted wrinkles are!

Keeping your delicate eye area well-hydrated can help plump up the skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines. Use a hydrating eye cream or serum specifically formulated to target fine lines and crow’s feet.

Try Pevonia Age Correction Eye Contour. This power repair eye contour gives tired, ageing eyes the burst of hydration they need! Deeply nourishing thanks to its combination of marine collagen and marine elastin hyaluronic acid, it targets signs of fatigue, visibly reducing puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles. What more could you want?

“Reduces wrinkles and firms eyelids. It’s also cool and soothing to eye area. No oily film to interfere with applying eye makeup. Have seen reduction in fine lines in crow’s feet area.” Laura L

  1. Exfoliate

Shedding dead skin and revealing a younger, healthier layer of skin beneath helps reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, fine lines, and surface wrinkles. Stronger forms of AHAs may also help boost your skin’s collagen production, thereby providing additional crow’s feet treatment.

  1. Get enough sleep. 

When you don’t get enough sleep, your skin can become dull and wrinkled and wrinkles around your eyes can become increasingly more obvious.  Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep minimum each night.

  1. Apply cucumbers over your eyes

I’ve talked about this before and for good reason. Cucumber slices are known for their cooling and soothing properties. Place chilled cucumber slices over your eyes for 10-15 minutes to reduce puffiness and refresh the delicate skin around your eyes.

  1. Apply Green tea bags as an eye compress

Green tea isn’t just for drinking; it’s also a potent antioxidant that can work wonders topically for your skin. Brew some green tea, let it cool, then soak a clean cloth in the tea and gently place it over your closed eyes for 15 minutes. The antioxidants in green tea can help reduce inflammation and promote smoother, firmer skin.

  1. Apply chamomile tea bags for soothing relief

And finally as with green tea bags, chamomile tea bags can really help the eye area when applied topically. Chamomile is renowned for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Simply place two chamomile tea bags in hot water, let them cool, then place them over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. This can help reduce puffiness and inflammation, giving your eyes a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

  1. Manage stress

Stress can also contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.

How do you prevent crow’s feet from forming in the first place?

There are several lifestyle choices you can make to help fight the formation of crow’s feet.

  1. Wear sunglasses

The delicate skin around our eyes is particularly susceptible to UV damage as it is thinner and more prone to wrinkling. By wearing sunglasses daily, you create a shield against the sun’s harmful UV rays, protecting this sensitive area from sun exposure and thereby reducing the risk of developing crow’s feet.

Wearing sunglasses can also help to reduce squinting, one of the main contributors to crow’s feet.

  1. Apply sunscreen every. single. day

Wearing sunglasses isn’t the only thing to help shield your delicate eye area from sun damage. Actually wearing sunscreen daily is imperative too!

The sun is hands down the no. 1 cause of premature ageing and therefore crow’s feet, and by wearing sunscreen religiously you can help prevent it!

  1. Go gentle on the delicate eye area

Treat your eye area with the utmost care. Avoid harsh rubbing or tugging as this can damage your delicate eye area causing the tissue around your eyes to thin, making it more fragile and therefore be more susceptible to wrinkles.

  1. Practice eye exercises

Performing simple eye exercises such as gentle massage can help improve blood circulation and reduce tension around the eyes potentially minimizing wrinkle formation.

  1. Incorporate retinol into your daily skincare routine

Incorporating a retinol-based eye cream into your skincare routine can work wonders for your skin. Retinol helps boost collagen production and encourages cell turnover, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

  1. Drink plenty of water every single day

Say no more. Water is life. We all know drinking plenty of water has an outstanding effect onour skin’s health, so drink, drink, drink!

  1. Apply eye masks

Treat yourself to some nourishing eye masks infused with hydrating and collagen-boosting ingredients. These can provide an instant plumping and brightening effect, giving your under-eye area a refreshed appearance.

  1. Eat a healthy diet

If you’re looking for a simple solution for how to prevent crow’s feet, try to eat more of the following foods.

  • Fish rich in omega-3s essential fatty acids such as salmon
  • Avocados
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Berries
  • Green leafy vegetables

Foods high in antioxidants can help fight free radicals and pollution that contribute to lines and wrinkles.

  1. Avoid smoking

Smoking it’s just bad for your health, it can seriously affect your skin’s appearance too! This is because smoking can accelerate the ageing process quite significantly and contribute to the formation of wrinkles.

  1. Get yourself some reading glasses as soon as you need them!

As we age, our vision can become impaired which causes us to squint, especially when we are trying to read or scroll through at our devices. Squinting is actually one of the main causes of crow’s feet, eek, so if you notice your eye sight deteriorating slightly go get your eyes tested immediately.

Just remember, while crow’s feet are a natural part of the aging process, taking care of your skin and following these tips can help minimize their appearance and promote a more youthful, radiant eye area.

Beauty Collective - woman with various masks on her face

What is multi-masking and is it right for your skin?

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Ever wondered why a certain skincare product works wonders for your friend but leaves your skin looking far from flawless? Well, the answer lies in our skin type. You might have dry skin, while your friend’s is naturally oily. But then sometimes you might find that different areas of your face suddenly have different needs. Perhaps your cheeks are dry, but you’re experiencing pimples on your forehead and chin. Then what? It is a good idea to use your rich, dry skin moisturiser on your oily T-zone?! This is where skincare trend “multi-masking” could be your go to! Multi-masking is all about customising your skincare routine to target specific areas of face. Intrigued? Keep reading to learn all there is to know about multi-masking and whether it’s right for your skin.

 

What exactly is multi-masking?

Think of multi-masking as the art of using different face masks on various parts of your skin simultaneously to help combat a variety of skin concerns. Its like creating a tailored treatment for your skin addressing those different concerns at the same time.

So if your forehead is oily but your cheeks are dry and then you’re experiencing pesky pimples on your chin and nose, multi-masking could be the perfect remedy.

 

Is multi-masking right for you?

While multi-masking can be a game-changer for some, it might not be for everyone. Here are a few things to consider;

  1. Identify your skin concerns

Take a closer look at your skin and pinpoint the specific areas that need attention. If you have multiple skin concerns, multi-masking will likely be a great option for you.

  1. Choose the right mask for the right areas of your face

Face masks are designed to target specific areas of concern and therefore each face mask depending on that concern will be formulated with different key ingredients. You need to be sure you select masks that cater to your skin’s individual needs. Whether it’s hydration, exfoliation, oil or blemish control, there’s a mask out there for you, just choose wisely!

For areas of your face suffering from dry skin, you’ll best to use a hydrating mask. Oily T-zone, apply a purifying mask to that area. Certain areas of your skin looking dull and devitalised, applying a brightening mask will do wonders for your skin!

For oily skin areas with enlarged pores we recommend Pevonia’s Age Correction Micro-Pores Bio-Active Mask. The exceptional mask has been uniquely formulated to control sebum production and help reveal a matte complexion with a more even-toned, visibly minimized pores and younger-looking skin.

Pevonia - Age Correction Micro-Pores Bio-Active Mask

If certain areas of your skin are dealing with breakouts try Pevonia’s Pure Skin Charcoal Mask is the perfect antidote for congested, dull skin. It neutralises pollutants, draws out impurities and leaves skin glowing with pure freshness!

For dry skin, we love a super hydrating mask like Pevonia’s Ageless Skin Collagen Mask, it combats dehydration in just 10 minutes. The rich texture is a soothing balm as your skin literally drinks in the moisture leaving it both dewy and hydrated.

And if skin is a little dull Pevonia’s Brightening Green Apple Mask is the best! It’s a clay-based mask to deep cleanse the pores and beautifully brighten skin tone!

  1. Patch test new masks first

Before slathering different masks all over your face, it’s crucial to do a patch test first. This will help you determine if your skin reacts well to the ingredients in each mask.

  1. Don’t overdo it

While multi-masking can be both effective and fun! Don’t go overboard and over apply! Applying too many products at once can overwhelm your skin and lead to irritation. Its best to stick to 3 masks maximum at once.

 

What are the benefits of multi-masking?

By targeting different areas of your face with specific treatments, you can address multiple concerns simultaneously. It’s like giving your skin a tailored spa treatment, leaving you with a refreshed, rejuvenated, and glowing complexion all over.

How do you apply the masks?

Using a brush or your fingers, carefully and evenly apply each mask to the appropriate area of your face. Then sit back and relax for 10 minutes while the masks work their magic. Remove with lukewarm water.

 

For more on why you should incorporate face masks into your skincare routine, as well as the many benefits, click here.

What’s more, for the month of October, 2023, when you purchase a Pevonia Face Mask, you’ll receive a Mask Brush for FREE.

Skincare travel essentials

Skincare essentials for your next flight

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Whether you’re a frequent flyer or are about to set off on your next getaway since school holidays are nearly here, you’ll likely know that travelling can take a toll on your skin. Long flights, changing climates and recycled cabin air (eek) can leave your complexion looking dull and drab and your skin dehydrated. However if you arm yourself with the right skincare essentials in preparation for your next flight, you can save your skin and step off the plane looking as radiant as ever!  

Keep reading as we count down 6 skincare essentials that’ll keep your skin glowing even at 30,000 feet! 

 

  1. Water

Sure it might not be a skincare product as such but remember when it comes to looking after your skin on your next fight, the first and most crucial rule is to stay hydrated! Airplane cabins are notorious for their dry air which can sap the moisture from your skin like nothing else! So before you even board the plane make sure you’re well hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and continue to do so throughout the flight!  

 

  1. Cleanser

As soon as you get settled into your seat it’s a good idea to start your skincare routine to ensure your skin is clean and ready to absorb moisture! After all keeping your skin clean and fresh is essential, even when you’re on the move. Invest in a travel-sized cleanser that fits snugly into your in-flight toiletry bag. Choose a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type, whether it’s a cream, gel, or foam formula. Cleansing your face will remove impurities, excess oil, and makeup that can clog up skin on a long-haul flight!  

Try Pevonia CleanRefresh Foaming Oil Cleanser. Suitable for all skin types (but especially recommended for that dry, parched skin travelling can leave us with) this cleanser is an oil cleanser, that feels like gel and when mixed with water transforms into a beautiful foaming lather that in turn delivers a truly luxurious cleansing experience! It’s lipid rich, alcohol-free and soap free. What more could you want! Nourishing and cleansing in one. 

Beauty Collective - Pevonia - CleanRefresh™ Foaming Oil Cleanser

 

Can’t be bothered to get out of your seat, then try Phytomer’s best selling Rosee Visage Toning Cleansing Lotion. No water needed! Simply apply this alcohol-free and infinitely gentle cleansing lotion with a cotton pad to remove the days makeup and grime and enjoy beautiful fresh, cleansed skin.  

If your favourite cleanser doesn’t come in travel size, you could try decanting it, or why not opt for a travel friendly kit instead? We are loving Pevonia’s range of travel friendly skincare kits.  

 

  1. Hydrating Serum

Applying a hydrating serum to your skin after cleansing will make a huge difference. Serums are lightweight, nourishing and help lock in moisture so no more moistures being sapped from your skin thanks to the cabin air! 

We recommend Phytomer Hydra continue 22h moisture flash Gel. If you do a lot of flying, this should become your go-to to restore hydration in skin both before, during and after flights.  

This beautiful light textured gel is like giving your skin its own glass of water to keep hydrated and the results are also immediate. 

Phytomer Hydra Continue 12H Moisturising Flash Gel 

  1. Multi-tasking moisturiser

Moisturising is the secret to keeping your skin plump and radiant throughout the flight. You don’t want anything too rich, instead opt for a moisturiser in a lightweight formula that will both hydrate and brighten your skin. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides and vitamin c to replenish moisture and keep your skin looking visibly radiant too. 

We are loving Phytomer’s Hydra Continue Radiance Energizing Cream. It’s 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! 

 

  1. Facial mist

On a long-haul flight believe me when I say a facial mist will become your new best friend. They are the perfect product (and travel companion!) to give your complexion a quick boost, replenishing tired, dry or tight skin within seconds, any time of day! 

We can’t get enough of Pevonia’s Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist. As well as Hyaluronic Acid, it’s formulated with a blend of ultra-calming Chamomile, Aloe, Green Tea and aromatic essential oils, making this powerhouse product ideal for all skin types, especially dehydrated, irritated, and ageing skin! However should your skin be on the sensitive side, a little itchy or irritated even, it will work its magic to calm, nurture and alleviate too. Its soo good. 

Beauty Collective - Pevonia - Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist™

 

  1. Sheet Masks

Perfect for travel, sheet masks are a great way to provide your skin with a big boost of hydration, nourishment and other skincare benefits, plus they are so quick and easy to use (unlike most cream masks). 

We love ELES Sheet Masks. You can choose from a calming and soothing sheet mask, a hydrating and brightening sheet mask or if you are worried about ageing try the youth recovery sheet mask. You’ll love the way your skin laps up the moisture from the mask and leaves if feeling cool, calm, deeply nourished and visibly refreshed. 

Not familiar with sheet masks? For everything you need to know click here.